Plastic water bottles have become one of the common containers in our daily life. However, some plastic water bottles may contain harmful substances that are potential risks to our health. Therefore, when buying and using plastic water bottles, it is important to identify their material to ensure safety. Several common plastic materials and identification methods are described in detail below.

Common plastic materials are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polycarbonate (PC). Each plastic material has different properties and uses. Here are some ways to identify the material of plastic water bottles:

Check the identifier: Most plastic water bottles have an identifier on them to indicate their material and safety level. A common identifier is a triangular circular arrow with a number inside to represent the material type. The identification number and corresponding material are as follows:

No.1: Polyethylene (PE). Transparent, soft, disposable water bottles commonly used this material.

No.2: Polyethylene (PE). Transparent, rigid, suitable for multiple use of mineral water bottles.

No.3: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Contain harmful substances, use caution.

No.4: Polyethylene (PE). Soft, flexible, used for baby water bottles.

No.5: Polypropylene (PP). Clear, hard, often used in sports water bottles.

No.6: Polystyrene (PS). Not suitable for storage of hot water, there is a risk of releasing harmful substances.

No. 7: Other materials such as polycarbonate (PC). Understand the characteristics and risks of the material.

Observe the appearance and feel: Different plastic materials have different appearance and feel characteristics. Polyethylene (PE) is generally softer, polypropylene (PP) is harder, and polystyrene (PS) is more fragile. By observing and holding the water bottle, you can preliminarily judge its material.

Temperature test: The heat resistance of plastic material is also one of the important indicators to identify its safety. You can put the water bottle into hot water and observe whether it is deformed, foaming or releasing harmful gases. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) usually have better heat resistance, while polystyrene (PS) is prone to deformation and release harmful gases.

Find identification words: Some plastic water bottles will have specific identification words, indicating its application scenario and use. For example, "food grade" means it can be used to contain food and beverages, "non-heating" means it is not suitable for heating use, etc. By looking at these identifier words, you can understand the safety and suitability of the water bottle.