2.2.5 Design for Recycling guidelines for plastics

Finally there are a number of plastic-specific DfR guidelines to consider when designing a product:

Use common plastics only (e.g. ABS, PE, PP, PA, PC , PC/ABS and HIPS)
Unlike uncommon plastics, these materials are already being recycled in sufficient volumes. If an uncommon plastic is necessary, use one with a density outside the 0.85 – 1.25 g/cm³ density range of common plastics.
Avoid polymer blends
Polymer blends (besides PC/ABS) can pollute recycled material streams.
Avoid glass fibre filled polymers
Glass fibres pollute the recycled material stream and can decrease its mechanical properties.
Minimise the use of additives
These reduce the purity of recycled plastic streams.
Avoid the use of thermoset rubbers
These cannot be recycled.
Avoid the use of thermosets and composites
Thermosets cannot be recycled. If a thermoset is required, use one with a density outside the 0.85 – 1.25 g/cm³ density range of common plastics.
Avoid coatings and paints on plastic parts
They will pollute material streams and possibly change the density of the material.
Avoid the use of foam
Minimize the use of thermoplastic elastomers
These are not recycled.
Do not use plating, galvanizing or vacuum metallization to coat plastic parts
This creates a connection between the plastic and metal.