Plastic clamshell packaging is most commonly made with PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Wall thicknesses range from .010" to .060" to accommodate a wide variety of applications. All materials exhibit high clarity and are extremely durable. Plastic clamshells are great for protecting your product and, at the same time, displaying its most precise details.
PET
PET is a plastic resin that is commonly used in the retail, food and pharmaceutical industries due to its low vapor transmission rate.
PVC
PVC is a synthetic polymer. It is often used in industrial applications due to its chemical resistance. It seals when heat is applied.
While PET and PETE are often used interchangeably, there are some differences between the two. Both are assigned the recycling code of 1. Below is a comparison.
PET
- PET is more rigid.
- PET has a higher intrinsic viscosity (I.V.)
- PET has a higher melting point.
Overall, PET is a better choice than PETE for products requiring a higher level of durability, such as water bottles.
PETE
- PETE is more flexible.
- PETE has a lower I.V.
- PETE has a lower melting point.
Generally, PETE is used in packaging for food and other consumer products.
PETG, also a version of PET, is not recyclable in the same stream as PET or PETE and receives a recycling code of 7 (other).
Consumers who want to reduce their environmental impact need to understand the essentials of:
- What PET or PETE plastic is,
- What the recycling symbol for number 1 plastics is,
- The process of recycling PET or PETE 1 plastic.
PET / PETE plastics are the most commonly used plastics and are the most recycled plastics in the world. By recycling PET or PETE 1 plastic, we can reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment and conserve natural resources. So, the next time you see the recycling symbol with the number 1, remember that it represents PET or PETE plastic, and make sure to recycle it properly.
Our knowledgeable and experienced design team will be happy to advise you in your selection, although ultimately the responsibility of material selection lies with the purchaser. To receive additional information or a quote, simply send us the information about your product.
