Resin identification code

For broader coverage of this topic, see Recycling codes.
Resin Identification Code
Standard Practice for Coding Plastic Manufactured Articles for Resin Identification
Year started1988
OrganizationASTM International
Websitewww.astm.org/d7611_d7611m-21.html
Resin code for polyethylene terephthalate
Polypropylene lid of a Tic Tac box, with a living hinge and the resin identification code, 5, under its flap

The Resin Identification Code (RIC) is a technical standard with a set of symbols appearing on plastic products that identify the plastic resin out of which the product is made.[1] It was developed in 1988 by the Society of the Plastics Industry (now the Plastics Industry Association) in the United States, but since 2008 it has been administered by ASTM International, an international standards organization.[1]

Due to resemblance to the recycling symbol, RIC symbols are often mistaken for the former.[2] Subsequent revisions to the RIC have replaced the arrows with a solid triangle, but the old symbols are still in common use.

  1. ^ a b "Standard Practice for Coding Plastic Manufactured Articles for Resin Identification". Standard Practice for Coding Plastic Manufactured Articles for Resin Identification. ASTM International. Retrieved 21 January 2016.
  2. ^ Borst, Ellie (2023-05-15). "EPA looks to toss 'deceptive' plastics recycling symbol". E&E News by POLITICO. Retrieved 2024-05-06.