Plastics: structure, recycling #, common uses

(C₈H₈)_n

polystrene (PS)

recycling: 6

common uses: styrofoam, tableware, take-out containers, coffee cups, egg cartons, disposable cups

(C₃H₆)_n

polypropylene (PP)

recycling: 5

common uses: containers, car batteries, carpet, rope, plastic wrap, lab equipment, twine, tape, clothing, camping equipment

(CH₂CHCl)_n

polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

recycling: 3

common uses: food packaging, non-drink bottles, containers, construction, tiles, credit cards, straws, rope, plastic wrap, lab equipment

(C₁₆H₁₄O₃)_n

polycarbonate (PC)

recycling: 7

common uses: shatterproof glass, eyeglass lenses

(C₅H₈O₂)_n

polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)

recycling: 7

common uses: plexiglass, dentures, bone implants, illuminated signs, skylights, aircraft canopies

(C₂H₄)_n

high-density polyethylene (HDPE)

-straight chain

recycling: 2

common uses: food containers, bags, furniture, signs, trash cans, toys

low-density polyethylene (LDPE)

-branched

recycling: 4

common uses: bags, plastic wrap

(C₁₀H₈O₄)_n

polyethylene terephthalate (PET/PETE)

recycling: 1

common uses: drink bottles, carpet, fabric, rope, fiberfill