Separating Plastics for Recycling

Before you get started

If you are experimenting at home:
1. Let your parents know and discuss the experiments with them beforehand.
2. Do not eat or drink at your workspace.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after the experiment.
4. Be careful and cautious with the materials.

Graphic figure boy pouring liquid in flask

What you need for the experiment:

Large clear cylindrical container – like a drinking glass or vase
Warm water to fill container
Wooden spoon – taller than the container for “stirring” the plastics
Table salt or sugar
Tablespoon for measuring
Variety of empty plastics with recycling numbers from 1 – 7. You do not need all types to complete the experiment. Ask your parent or an adult to help you collect and cut plastics for the experiment.

Examples to look for:

bags for buying fruits and vegetables at the store
plastic bottles and caps for beverages, ketchup, and containers for yogurt
balloons and straws

Let’s get started!

1. Check the list and gather the materials you need.
2. Click video and start science fun!

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