Plastics are found and used almost everywhere. The term "plastics" refers specifically to a family of man-made materials characterized by a particular macromolecular structure.
Originally, many of these materials were made from resins of plant origin; nowadays, however, most are derived from petrochemicals, which are inexpensive and easy to use.
The type of plastic to be used to make different products must therefore be chosen according to the characteristics of the product itself and the 'shelflife' ('shelf life') it must provide.
There are three macro categories into which they are divided: elastomers, thermosets and thermoplastics.
ACRONYMS OF PLASTICS
here are the acronyms of some of the main plastic materials used for products in the Horeca world.
- PC - Polycarbonate
- PE - Polyethylene
- PP - Polypropylene
- PS - Polystyrene
CHARACTERISTICS OF PLASTIC MATERIALS
- Polycarbonate: extremely versatile and therefore ideal for creating products that are both functional and pleasant to look at and use. Resistant to impact, heat and fracture, lightweight and recyclable, but above all practically indestructible: in fact, thanks to polycarbonate, products are made that can theoretically last and be used for years.
- Polyethylene: a very lightweight material, among the most present and used in our daily lives. Due to its non-toxic properties and low water absorption, it is widely used in the food industry. Polyethylene is also resistant to water and chemicals, impact and abrasion.
- Polypropylene: 'cousin' of polyethylene, compared to the latter more rigid but less impact resistant. Odorless and nontoxic, resistant to wear and tear and stains, but above all inexpensive and easily washable.
- Polystyrene: versatile material that can be successfully used for multiple products. Nontoxic, as well as impact and fire resistant; totally recyclable and perfect for making food containers.
COMPOSTABLE AND BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC MATERIALS.
There are also a number of materials derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch or residual fibers from sugarcane processing; from them come products under the banner of compostability and biodegradability.
Below is a brief overview:
- Mater-Bi: a material that withstands a maximum temperature of 80°C, used for the production of cutlery or, in combination with cardboard, for plates and glasses. In film form also for the production of bags and for packaging that wraps cutlery kits.
- Ingeo (P.L.A.): polymer that can withstand up to 45°C; mostly used to produce glasses and trays with similar characteristics to polystyrene but, due to its poor resistance to high temperatures, suitable only for cold drinks and foods.
- Cellulose pulp: is made from processing waste from fast-growing plants, so it is made entirely of natural materials. The pulp, which is white in color, is resistant up to a maximum temperature of 100°C. Suitable for both microwave and conventional ovens, it is used for some types of glasses, but mainly for making plates and lidded containers.
- Cardboard + Mater-Bi: The inner side, in contact with food, has a coating that ensures its resistance to liquids and suitability for food contact up to 70°C.