Forensics (Plastics) Science Olympiad

PETE

Soft drink bottles, carpet, fiberfill, rope, scouring pads, fabric, Mylar; shrivels with heat

HDPE

Food containers, bags, lumber, furniture, flower pots, signs, trash cans, toys

PS

Styrofoam, tableware, coffee cups, toys, lighting, signs, insulation; reacts with acetone

LDPE

Food containers (specifically bags), grocery bags, plastic wrap, etc.

PP

Food containers, medicine containers, automobile batteries, carpet, rope, plastic wrap, lab equipment

PVC

Food packaging, shampoo containers, construction (ahem PVC pipes ... you see them often), tiles, credit cards; burns green

PMMA

Plexiglas, glass substitute reacts with acetone

PC

Shatterproof glass, eyeglass lenses; clear