Which polymer is described as tough, durable, and used for containers such as milk bottles?

Which polymer is described as tough, durable, and used for containers such as milk bottles?

• A. Polythene
• B. PVC
• C. Polypropene
• D. Polystyrene

Answer: (A)

The material used for milk bottles must be tough, durable and easy to form into bottles by blow moulding, with good chemical resistance to milk. Polythene (polyethylene) fits this perfectly. High-density polyethylene is stiff, strong and resistant to chemicals, so it can withstand handling and transport without cracking, and it can be easily blow-moulded into bottle shapes. That combination of toughness and processability is why milk containers are commonly made from polythene. Polystyrene is rigid and brittle, not ideal for a durable bottle. PVC contains chlorine and is less preferred for food-contact packaging like milk bottles. Polypropylene is strong and heat resistant but is more commonly used for other containers and lids rather than standard milk bottles.

The material used for milk bottles must be tough, durable and easy to form into bottles by blow moulding, with good chemical resistance to milk. Polythene (polyethylene) fits this perfectly. High-density polyethylene is stiff, strong and resistant to chemicals, so it can withstand handling and transport without cracking, and it can be easily blow-moulded into bottle shapes. That combination of toughness and processability is why milk containers are commonly made from polythene.

Polystyrene is rigid and brittle, not ideal for a durable bottle. PVC contains chlorine and is less preferred for food-contact packaging like milk bottles. Polypropylene is strong and heat resistant but is more commonly used for other containers and lids rather than standard milk bottles.