PET vs PP vs PS vs GPPS: A Complete Comparison

1. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

  • Appearance: Crystal clear, glossy.

  • Strengths: Strong, lightweight, excellent clarity, good moisture barrier.

  • Limitations: Not heat-resistant, warps with hot food.

  • Common Uses: Beverage bottles, PET jars for cookies, transparent retail packaging.

2. PP (Polypropylene)

  • Appearance: Semi-transparent or opaque.

  • Strengths: High heat resistance (microwave-safe), durable, reusable, oil-resistant.

  • Limitations: Less clarity compared to PET.

  • Common Uses: Takeaway lunch boxes, microwave containers, reusable storage boxes.

3. PS (Polystyrene – General)

  • Appearance: Can be clear (GPPS) or opaque (HIPS).

  • Strengths: Cheap, lightweight, widely used in disposables.

  • Limitations: Brittle (GPPS), low heat resistance, limited recyclability.

  • Common Uses: Disposable cups, clamshell boxes, trays, budget packaging.

4. GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene – Subtype of PS)

  • Appearance: Very clear, glass-like, glossy.

  • Strengths: Excellent clarity, low cost.

  • Limitations: Very brittle, cracks easily, not microwave-safe.

  • Common Uses: Clear clamshells, disposable cups, transparent packaging.

Material Full Name Properties Common Uses
PET Polyethylene Terephthalate Clear, strong, lightweight, recyclable Bottles, jars, food containers
PP Polypropylene Heat-resistant, durable, lightweight Microwave containers, lunch boxes, packaging
PS Polystyrene Rigid, transparent, brittle Disposable Food box, disposalbe food trays
GPPS General Purpose Polystyrene Clear, glossy, brittle Cups, cookie containers, bird nest packaging boxes