There are two main types of plastic used in consumer products. The different types are formed differently and therefore must be recycled in different ways. Thermoplastic The most easily recyclable type of plastics. Thermoplastics become soft and malleable when heated, allowing them to be molded into different shapes, and harden again when cooled. When a thermoplastic is formed, it does not change its bond structure and can be reheated, recycled and remolded again. Common thermoplastics and their uses include: Polyethylene(PE): food packaging Polyethylene terephthalate (PET): drinks bottles, clothing, automotive upholstery Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): pipes, windowpanes, window frames Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS): sports equipment, toys, automotive parts Polyamide: clothing, light switches, automotive parts Thermoset plastic A thermoset plastic is created by curing, or hardening, a softened or liquid polymer resin. In the curing process, the polymer chains cross link to form a rigid, unbreakable structure. This means that this process is irreversible, and unlike a thermoplastic, a thermoset plastic cannot be melted down and reformed. Common thermoset plastics and their uses include: Epoxy resin: automotive parts, structural adhesives, electronic components Polyester resin: laser printer toner, pipes, storage tanks Polyurethanes: mattresses, flooring, shoe soles, other foams