{"id":4618,"date":"2025-10-23T09:28:56","date_gmt":"2025-10-23T09:28:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/?p=4618"},"modified":"2025-10-23T09:29:03","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T09:29:03","slug":"understanding-plastic-bottle-bottom-labels-the-true-meaning-behind-the-triangle-arrow-numbers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/understanding-plastic-bottle-bottom-labels-the-true-meaning-behind-the-triangle-arrow-numbers\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Plastic Bottle Bottom Labels: The True Meaning Behind the Triangle Arrow Numbers"},"content":{"rendered":"

1. Why Do Plastic Bottles Have a \"Triangle, Arrow, and Number\" Logo on Their Bottom?<\/span><\/h1>\n

 <\/p>\n

When you pick up a bottle of mineral water, shampoo or detergent and turn it over at the bottom, you can see a triangle composed of three arrows, with numbers or letters printed inside.<\/span>
\nThis is not decoration but the internationally recognized Resin Identification Code (RIC).<\/span><\/p>\n

The RIC coding was first established by the American Plastics Industry Association (SPI) in 1988 and is currently implemented in accordance with the ASTM D7611 standard.<\/span>
\nAlthough it is not a global mandatory standard, it has become a widely adopted identification system in the recycling systems of various countries.<\/span><\/p>\n

Its functions include:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u267b\ufe0f helps consumers identify types of plastics, understand safety levels and uses;<\/span>
\n\ud83c\udfed facilitates efficient classification by recycling institutions and improves the recycling utilization rate;<\/span>
\n\ud83e\uddea facilitates manufacturers to track the characteristics of raw materials, achieve reuse and performance evaluation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, this identification system has become the \"ID card\" of global plastic products and the most fundamental data language in the circular economy system.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

2. Detailed Explanation of the Seven Plastic Identification Marks and Their Application Scenarios<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
N<\/span>o.<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\nAbbr.<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\nMaterial Name<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\nCommon Uses<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\nBelangrijkste kenmerken<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\nUsage & Recycling Notes<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2460<\/span><\/td>\nHUISDIER<\/span><\/td>\nPolyethyleentereftalaat<\/span><\/td>\nWater bottles, beverage containers<\/span><\/td>\nTransparent, lightweight<\/span><\/td>\nDeforms above 60\u00b0C; single use recommended<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2461<\/span><\/td>\nHDPE<\/span><\/td>\nHogedichtheidspolyethyleen<\/span><\/td>\nShampoo bottles, milk jugs, detergent containers<\/span><\/td>\nAcid\/alkali resistant, impact resistant<\/span><\/td>\nReusable, avoid hot liquids<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2462<\/span><\/td>\nPVC<\/span><\/td>\nPolyvinyl Chloride<\/span><\/td>\nPipes, cling films, wire coatings<\/span><\/td>\nTransparent, corrosion resistant<\/span><\/td>\nContains additives; not food-safe<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2463<\/span><\/td>\nLDPE<\/span><\/td>\nLagedichtheidspolyethyleen<\/span><\/td>\nCling wrap, squeeze bottles, shopping bags<\/span><\/td>\nSoft, flexible, cold-resistant<\/span><\/td>\nNot suitable for hot foods<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2464<\/span><\/td>\nPP<\/span><\/td>\nPolypropyleen<\/span><\/td>\nBaby bottles, microwave containers, caps<\/span><\/td>\nHeat resistant, food-safe<\/span><\/td>\nReusable, microwave safe<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2465<\/span><\/td>\nPS<\/span><\/td>\nPolystyrene<\/span><\/td>\nDisposable cups, yogurt containers, foam packaging<\/span><\/td>\nLightweight, easy to mold<\/span><\/td>\nMay release styrene when heated<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2466<\/span><\/td>\nOTHER (PC, ABS, etc.)<\/span><\/td>\nVarious plastics<\/span><\/td>\nSports bottles, baby bottles, electronics housings<\/span><\/td>\nStrong, impact resistant<\/span><\/td>\nSome contain BPA\u2014check safety labels<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

\ud83d\udd0d Extended reading:<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbPET<\/strong> has the highest recycling rate and can be regenerated into fibers, films and recycled bottle flakes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbHDPE and PP<\/strong> are the main materials for sustainable packaging.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbPVC<\/strong> is gradually reducing its use in packaging due to its complex additives.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Technische kunststoffen zoals ABS and PC<\/strong> are more often used in high value-added fields like automobiles, electronics and medical care.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

3. the materials of the bottle body and the bottle cap are often different<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

Most consumers think that the entire bottle is made of the same type of plastic, but that's not the case<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbThe bottle body is mostly made of PET:<\/strong> transparent, beautiful, lightweight and quick to form.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbBottle caps are commonly made of PP or HDPE:<\/strong> they have better pressure resistance and toughness and are less prone to deformation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbMost labels are made of BOPP or PE films:<\/strong> ensuring printability and easy peelability.<\/span><\/p>\n

During the manufacturing process, the difference in materials between the bottle body and the bottle cap will affect:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbMelting point matching:<\/strong> The melting point of PP is approximately 160-165\u2103, while that of PET is about 250\u2103.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbShrinkage rate control:<\/strong> If not matched, it can easily lead to poor sealing or the bottle cap getting stuck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbRecycling and processing:<\/strong> Different materials must be separated to achieve high-quality regeneration and utilization.<\/span><\/p>\n

For plastic suppliers and packaging designers, this means that material selection must take into account mechanical properties, processing characteristics and recyclability.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

4. The Relationship between Plastic Labeling and Environmental Protection Regulations<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

With the advancement of circular economy policies, an increasing number of countries are demanding:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>The plastic identification code must be clearly marked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Mixing of non-separable materials for packaging is prohibited.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Promote the use of Mono-material Packaging for recyclable design.<\/span><\/p>\n

The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is gradually replacing the old version of PPWD, emphasizing single-material design and traceability.<\/span><\/p>\n

China's \"Action Plan for Plastic Pollution Control\" is also strengthening labeling norms and reuse standards.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

5. From the perspective of Consumers: How to Use plastic Bottles Safely and environmentally<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2705 Select materials based on the number:<\/strong> for food contact, \u2461 (HDPE) or \u2464 (PP) are recommended;<\/span><\/p>\n

\u26a0\ufe0f Avoid refilling hot water:<\/strong> PET and PS are prone to release harmful substances at high temperatures;<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2600\ufe0f Avoid direct sunlight:<\/strong> ultraviolet rays can cause plastics to age and decompose;<\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83d\udeb0 Clean before recycling:<\/strong> Residual liquid will affect the quality of the entire batch of recycling;<\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83e\uddf4 Separate the bottle body from the cap:<\/strong> different materials need to be recycled independently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\ud83d\udca1 Tip:<\/span>Identifying the \"fork & cup mark\" or \"FDA\/LFGB certification\" can help determine the safety of food contact.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

6. Plastic Labels and Their Recycling and Reuse Value<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the recycling system, the economic values of different materials vary significantly:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbHigh recycling value:<\/strong> PET, HDPE (can be recycled into recycled bottle flakes, cleaning agent bottles, fibers, etc.)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbMedium value:<\/strong> PP, PS (The recycling process is relatively difficult, but the technology is mature<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fbLow recycling value:<\/strong> PVC, OTHER (complex composition, high cost)<\/span><\/p>\n

The key to improving the reuse rate lies in:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Clean thoroughly to reduce foreign objects;<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Remove the bottle cap and label;<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Choose single-material packaging.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

7. Conclusion: The Logic of the Industrial Chain Behind a Symbol<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

The \"triangular mark\" at the bottom of plastic bottles, though seemingly simple, actually embodies the integration of materials science, production design and environmental protection concepts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>For manufacturers<\/strong>, it represents raw material management and quality traceability.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>For brand owners<\/strong>, it is related to sustainable image and regulatory compliance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>For consumers<\/strong>, it is the first step to understanding the safety and environmental friendliness of plastics.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

8. Juyuan Tip: Make plastic safer, greener and more valuable<\/span><\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

As a professional plastic raw material trader<\/strong>, Juyuan offers a wide range of plastic raw material pellets including PET, HDPE, PP, PC, ABS, etc.<\/strong>, which are widely used in:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Food and beverage packaging<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Medical and personal care containers<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Industrial and electronic components<\/span><\/p>\n

We offer our customers<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Material selection and performance evaluation<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>Sustainable packaging solutions<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u30fb<\/strong>International certification and supply chain support<\/span><\/p>\n

Juyuan - Empowering a sustainable future with professional plastic solutions.<\/span><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

1. Why Do Plastic Bottles Have a \"Triangle, Arrow, and Number\" Logo on Their Bottom?   When you pick up a bottle of mineral water, shampoo or detergent and turn it over at the bottom, you can see a triangle composed of three arrows, with numbers or letters printed inside. This is not decoration but […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4626,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4618","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Understanding-Plastic-Bottle-Bottom-Labels.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4618","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4618"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4618\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4627,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4618\/revisions\/4627"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4626"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4618"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4618"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/juyuans.com\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4618"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}