+86-18561501066

E-mail : skye@giscostorage.com

HOME Products OEM/ODM NEWS ABOUT US DOWNLOAD CONTACT US

Inquire Now

START TYPING AND PRESS ENTER TO SEARCH

HOME Products OEM/ODM NEWS ABOUT US DOWNLOAD CONTACT US
一级标题
一级标题

News

How to identify the plastic storage box made of 100% virgin material or recycled material?

As sustainability becomes a global priority, plastic storage boxes made from recycled materials are flooding the market. While this shift supports environmental goals, it also raises a practical question for consumers and procurement officers alike: How can you tell if a plastic box is made from 100% virgin material or contains recycled content? Here are some tips for your reference.


The Visual and Tactile Test


The most immediate clues lie in the product's appearance. "Virgin plastic, such as pure Polypropylene (PP) or Polyethylene (PE), typically exhibits high clarity and uniform, bright coloration," explains a materials specialist. In contrast, recycled plastic often tells a different story.

Boxes made from 100% recycled material tend to have a duller, greyish, or inconsistent color. This is because the recycling stream often mixes plastics of different original colors. Furthermore, the surface might feel slightly rougher or contain minute black specks or impurities that were not fully filtered out during processing. If a storage box boasts a flawless, crystal-clear transparency, it is almost certainly made from virgin resin.


The Power of Smell


While not a foolproof method, odor can be a revealing indicator. Virgin plastic typically has very little to no smell. However, recycled plastic may retain trace amounts of volatile organic compounds from its previous life, whether from food containers, detergents, or industrial use. Under certain conditions, such as exposure to heat or sunlight, a recycled box might emit a faint, characteristic "plastic" or chemical odor that is absent in virgin products.

The "R" Code: A Simple Shortcut


For the average shopper, the most reliable method is checking the labeling. Most plastic products feature a resin identification code, usually a number (1-7) inside a triangle of arrows. The key detail lies in the prefix.


According to international standards, if a product is made from recycled materials, the code is often preceded by an "R". For example, "R-PET" indicates recycled PET, while "R-PP" stands for recycled polypropylene. If the label simply says "PP" or "HDPE" without the "R" prefix, it is generally understood to be made from virgin material. However, as labeling regulations are not yet universally enforced, consumers should be wary of products that lack clear material declarations.

In conclusion, identifying the origin of a plastic storage box is a blend of art and science. Whether you rely on the clarity of the material, the presence of an "R" on the label, or advanced spectral analysis, knowing what your plastic is made of empowers you to make a choice that aligns with both your aesthetic preferences and your environmental values.


Related posts

  • CONTACT INFO

    Qingdao Guanyu Plastic Co., Ltd.

    Add: No.624, Qingshan Road, Qingdao, China

    Tel: +86-18561501066

    Fax: +86-532-87896798

  • MESSAGE

Copyright @ 2019 Qingdao Guanyu Plastic Co., Ltd.

Leave A Message

  • Could I have your name?

  • How could I contact you more convenient?

  • Could you tell me the kind of support you hope to get?

Email Skype Product About us
Top