Guide · Recycled plastics
How to specifyrecycled PET flakes.
PET bottle flakes are graded by purity and by intrinsic viscosity. The cleaner and more consistent the flakes, the higher the value of the products they can make, from fibre to new bottles.
The key parameters
What decides the grade.
| Parameter | What it measures | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Intrinsic viscosity (IV, dl/g) | Molecular chain length of the PET | Bottle and sheet uses need higher IV than fibre |
| PVC content (ppm) | PVC particles mixed with the PET | Even small amounts discolour and degrade the melt |
| PE and PP content (ppm) | Caps and label residues | Causes defects in sheet and bottles |
| Glue and paper | Label adhesive and paper residues | Black specks and filtration problems |
| Metals (ppm) | Metal particles | Damage to equipment and visible defects |
| Moisture (%) | Water content | Affects drying and processing |
| Flake size (mm) | Size of the ground particles | Feeding and drying behaviour |
| Colour | Clear, light blue, green, brown or mixed | Clear flakes reach the widest range of uses |
Grades and uses
Matching the flake to the product.
| Grade | Typical feature | Typical uses |
|---|---|---|
| Hot washed clear flakes | Lowest contamination | Bottle to bottle, food-contact sheet after further processing |
| Cold washed clear flakes | Good purity | Sheet, strapping, fibre |
| Coloured flakes | Sorted or mixed colours | Fibre, strapping |
Your checklist
What to put inyour specification.
- 01Colour and washing process (hot or cold)
- 02Minimum IV
- 03Maximum PVC, PE and PP, glue and metal content
- 04Maximum moisture and flake size range
- 05End use
- 06Packing (big bags), quantity and destination
Please note
Typical parameters only.
This guide explains parameters commonly used in international trade, for orientation. It is not a specification, an offer or a statement of available goods. Every deal sets its own specification in the written contract.
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