Plastic waste threatens human health, the environment, and the survival of living beings. To prevent further damage, plastic can be reduced using a shredder machine. But what types of plastic can actually be shredded?
If the amount is not reduced, plastic waste will continue to grow. Globally, only about ten percent is recycled while the rest becomes pollution. This is why plastic must be processed properly.
What Types of Plastic Can a Shredder Process?
Plastic comes in many forms. Some are thin and some are thick. At the same time, a shredder is an automated machine commonly used in waste management. Both are closely related.
To avoid misunderstanding, here are the types of plastic waste that can be processed using a shredder.
1. Polypropylene Plastic
Polypropylene, also known as PP, is a synthetic material classified as a thermoplastic polymer. It is more flexible compared to many other plastics and has many functions.
One of its uses is for food and beverage packaging. Examples include straws, plastic chairs, thin mineral water bottles, plastic cups, and raffia string.
PP is considered more environmentally friendly when handled and recycled correctly.
2. High Density Polyethylene
High density polyethylene or HDPE is a dense type of plastic made from petroleum. It is marked with the number two, indicating it is safe for repeated use.
Food containers, milk bottles, engine oil bottles, and soda bottles are examples of HDPE products. In addition to being strong, HDPE is resistant to chemicals, heat, and impact.
These HDPE products can be shredded using both small and large shredders. Large piles of HDPE waste can take a very long time to decompose, so shredding helps reduce their volume and makes handling more efficient.
3. Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic
You may have seen clear plastic that feels strong and durable. That material is polyethylene terephthalate or PET. It is coded with number one and is usually intended for single use.
Examples include cosmetic containers, oil bottles, water bottles, and many other household products.
PET can be shredded easily. Once shredded, it can be processed into new bottles, staples, or even used as an additive in concrete mixtures. PET is very easy to recycle while PVC, which will be discussed later, is more difficult.
4. Polystyrene Plastic
Polystyrene or PS is lightweight and often used in daily life. However, it melts easily even though the material remains firm.
Common examples include styrofoam food containers and plastic drinking cups. Its ability to be shaped easily makes PS popular for packaging production.
Historically, polystyrene began to be used in the 1930s by the German chemical company I G Farben. Early uses included household products such as combs and brushes.
5. Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride or PVC is a types of plastic, versatile thermoplastic widely used in the construction industry. It was first discovered by Eugene Baumann in 1872.
Mass production began in the 1920s by the B F Goodrich Company. This early development made PVC one of the oldest plastics in the history of polymer technology.
PVC is often used to produce window and door profiles, clean water and drainage pipes, cable insulation, medical equipment, and many other industrial products.
Why Should Plastic Be Shredded First?
Multifunction Plastic Shredder Machine
The multifunction plastic shredder machine not only handles non-organic plastic waste but also fabric. Its capacity is suitable for small to medium-scale processing.
All types of plastic must go through an initial size reduction process. The reasons plastic needs to be shredded before further processing are as follows:
- It makes recycling easier because small plastic pieces have more uniform sizes and do not require additional preparation.
- The volume of waste decreases significantly, making storage, transportation, and handling more efficient.
- Small pieces are easier to clean because water and detergent can reach all surfaces.
- Recycled results are better because uniform and clean plastic produces stronger and more consistent recycled products.
- The overall processing becomes faster because the machine can handle small sized plastic without difficulty.
- Destroying plastic and turning it into new products is much more useful than letting it pile up or scatter.
However, not all types of plastic can be shredded. If you are unsure, feel free to consult with Madanitec.
We are ready to provide the best shredder machine that meets the needs of your institution. Get it now at an affordable price. Contact 081215778768.
