What is pellets? Its importance in plastics recycling
In a world that is constantly looking for sustainable solutions to combat climate change, plastic recycling is a fundamental action to reduce atmospheric pollution and avoid the depletion of natural resources. In this context, “plastic pellets” are essential: they not only play a key role in the creation of new plastic products from recycled material, but also in the recovery of lightweight packaging and the preservation of the planet.
But what do we mean when we talk about plastic pellets?
Also known as “granules” or “pellets”, pellets are the result of plastic recycling. It is obtained by shredding, washing and melting recycled plastic, forming small pellets ranging in size from 2 to 5 millimetres. These pieces are used to manufacture new plastic products, thereby reducing dependence on virgin raw materials and reducing the environmental impact associated with the production of conventional plastics.
Properties and characteristics of plastic chippings
The properties and characteristics of plastic chippings make this material a highly versatile component:
- Size and shape: Plastic pellets come in small spheres with uniform sizes, allowing for more efficient processing during the manufacturing phase. This homogeneity in shape facilitates handling and proper flow in production lines.
- Colour and purity: plastic pellets can be found in a wide range of colours, with black and white being the most common. In addition, modern recycling processes seek to maintain high standards of purity, removing impurities and contaminants to produce a high quality, high performance material.
- Strength and durability: retains many of the inherent characteristics of recycled plastic, such as strength and durability. These properties are essential for the manufacture of strong and long-lasting end products.
- Compatibility with additives: During the manufacturing process, plastic pellets can be combined with additives to improve certain properties, such as UV resistance, fire resistance and other application-specific characteristics.
Types of plastic pellets
Types of plastic pellets
Polyethylen (PE)
Polypropylene (PP)
Polystyrene (PS)
Polyolefin (PO)
Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
Polycarbonate (PC)
Applications and uses of plastic pellets
Due to its size, variety and resistance, plastic chippings are a valuable option for industries seeking to reduce their environmental impact without losing quality in the manufacture of their products. Some of the production sectors that incorporate it are:
- Packaging industry: plastic pellets are used in the manufacture of containers and packaging for products such as bottles, containers, bags and plastic films. Its versatility and physical properties make it possible to create strong and lightweight packaging, reducing environmental impact and transport costs.
- Automotive industry: plastic pellets play an important role in the manufacture of parts and components for vehicle interiors and exteriors. Their light weight contributes to improved fuel efficiency and their strength ensures durable and safe products.
- Household appliances and electronics: Plastic chippings are essential in the production of electronic components and household appliances, offering properties such as electrical insulation, heat resistance and mechanical stability.
- Construction and civil works: In the construction industry, plastic chippings are used in the manufacture of pipes, sheets, profiles and other structural elements. Its strength and light weight make it an attractive alternative to traditional materials.
- Textile industry: some types of plastic chippings, such as polyester, are used in the textile industry to produce fibres and fabrics used in clothing and other textile products.
Plastic pellets are an essential piece in the recycling puzzle, playing a key role in the creation of new plastic products from recycled material. It enables us to move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future, where plastic becomes a solution.
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