Technical Specifications
There exists a maximum amount of PCR (post-consumer resin) or PIC (post-industrial content) a polybag can contain and still maintain the strength, sealability and integrity of the bag. Testing is critical to determine the appropriate amount of PCR and/or PIC in a polybag.
Technical specifications vary by application. Talk with an expert at Tension about your project to determine what percentage of PCR and/or PIC is right for you.
The Story Behind the Acronyms
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (L-LDPE) refers to the type of resin that makes up the plastic in the polybag. L-LDPE is popular for its strength, impact resistance and puncture resistance. Plus, the toughness of L-LDPE boasts a higher tensile strength than regular low-density polyethylene (LDPE) that allow L-LDPE to consist of thinner films without compromising the strength of the material, making it an ideal substrate for packaging applications.
Post-consumer recycled content (PCR) refers finished goods that are used and then recycled. Standard post-consumer recycled content includes copy paper, shipping boxes, empty plastic bottles, and aluminum cans.
Post-industrial recycled content (PIC) is waste generated from manufacturing processes and represents scraps that are saved, re-pelletized and repurposed into the polybag composition. In some applications, PIC can also be referred to as “pre-consumer” waste.
Polybags made with a percentage of recycled content can also be recycled as a low-density polyethylene or number 4 plastic. Nearly 10,000 retailers and grocers nationwide accept number 4 plastics (e.g., polybags) for recycling.