Resin Identification Code (RIC)

A Resin Identification Code is a number-based system developed by the plastic manufacturing industry, placed on plastics to identify the polymer for recycling purposes. However, it does not necessarily mean that an item is recyclable in a specific community. Categories include:

  • #1 – Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a plastic resin used to make packaging and soda bottles (also called PETE)
  • #2 – High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a resin used to make packaging and plastic milk and juice containers
  • #3 – Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a tough, environmentally indestructible plastic that releases hydrochloric acid when burned.
  • #4 – Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is widely used for manufacturing various containers, dispensing bottles, wash bottles, tubing, and plastic bags
  • #5 – Polypropylene (PP) is used for making molded articles, laminates, bottles, pipes, and fibers for ropes, bristles, upholstery, and carpets
  • #6 – Polystyrene (PS) is used to make auto parts, CD cases, electronics, toys, kitchen appliances, and expanded polystyrene foam (Styrofoam or EPS)
  • #7 – Other (mixed plastic) includes acrylic, nylon, polycarbonate, and polylactic acid (PLA), and multilayer combinations of different plastics

 

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