Polystyrene
Polystyrene is an inexpensive plastic and is common in everyday life. The exterior of computers, model airplanes and clear plastic drinking cups are made of polystyrene. It is produced by free radical vinyl polymerization from the monomer styrene. People can also find this plastic in children's toys, kitchen appliances and hair dryers. This plastic can be recycled.
Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride is one of the most widely used plastics and can be found in a wide variety of consumer products. For instance, items such as cling film, credit cards, construction materials and window blinds are made from polyvinyl chloride. While the plastic contributes to providing many products, the production of polyvinyl chloride creates and releases a toxic chemical called dioxin. Unlike polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride is hard to recycle. As a result, landfills are filled with the harmful plastic.
High Density Polyethylene
High density polyethylene products can be found in almost every household. Grocery bags, water bottles, yogurt containers, and shampoo bottles are made from high density polyethylene. It is ideal for packaging products with a short shelf life because of the translucent color and barrier properties. High density polyethylene can also be used to hold industrial chemicals due to the chemical resistance in the plastic.