Understanding the Plastic Used in Gas Cans

When storing gasoline, it is crucial to know what kind of plastic you are dealing with, as the material of the gas can can impact its durability and safety. By using the recycling mark, you can easily determine the type of plastic used in gas cans, and this information can help in making informed decisions about storage and disposal.

Evaluating the Recycling Mark

Gas cans come with a recycling mark on their exterior, which serves as a quick and easy way to identify the type of plastic used in their manufacture. This mark typically features a symbol in the shape of a triangle with three arrows forming a loop. Within the triangle, there is typically a number and sometimes a letter, which indicate the specific type of plastic.

The Types of Plastic in Gas Cans

Understanding the specific types of plastic used in gas cans, particularly high density polyethylene (HDPE) for safety and durability, can help you make more informed choices. Here we will delve into the different types and their characteristics:

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

PET (1) is commonly used in bottles and containers for soft drinks and water. However, it is not often used in gas cans due to its lower durability and flexibility compared to other types of plastic.

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE (2) is the most common plastic used in gas cans. It is known for its toughness, flexibility, and excellent sealing properties, making it an ideal choice for storing flammable liquids such as gasoline. HDPE is also resistant to impact and can withstand high temperatures without melting or deforming.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC (3) is less commonly used in gas cans due to its rigidity and limited flexibility. It can pose health risks due to the presence of certain harmful additives and is not as desirable for storing flammable substances.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

LDPE (4) is more flexible and softer than HDPE, making it suitable for numerous applications but less preferred for gas cans due to its reduced resistance to impacts and higher risk of leaking.

Polypropylene (PP)

PP (5) is known for its heat resistance and flexibility. However, it is not commonly used in gas cans, as it is primarily used in food containers and other applications that require higher temperature resistance.

Polystyrene (PS)

PS (6) is commonly found in disposable cups and packaging materials, but its limited impact resistance and lower chemical resistance make it unsuitable for storing gasoline.

Miscellaneous Plastics (7)

Plastic marked as "7" usually indicates a mix of different types of plastic or a material that does not fit into the other categories. It is generally not recommended for use with gas cans due to potential compatibility issues.

Conclusion

By familiarizing yourself with the recycling mark and understanding the different types of plastic used in gas cans, you can make more informed decisions about storing gasoline safely and efficiently. HDPE, in particular, is the most suitable type of plastic for gas cans due to its durability and ability to withstand the stresses of storage and transportation.