Plastics : Difference between PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) from PE (Polyethylene)

Here are the simple ways to tell PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) from PE (Polyethylene) apart

Density test (Float Test):

• PE floats in water
• PVC sinks in water

Burn test (Should only be done in proper lab conditions)

• PE burns with a blue flame, and smells like candle wax
• PVC produces a green flame, and has a strong chlorine smell

Physical differences:

• PE feels waxy and flexible
• PVC feels harder and more rigid
• PE can be scratched more easily
• PVC has a more "plastic-like" feel

Look for recycling codes:

• PE recycling codes are #2 (HDPE) or #4 (LDPE)
• PVC recycling code is #3 

Common applications:

 
PE is typically used in:

• Milk jugs
• Shopping bags
• Food containers

PVC typically used in:

• Pipes
• Window frames
• Credit cards
• Vinyl flooring

Flexibility:

• PE can be bent easily
• PVC is more rigid unless plasticized

The float test is the quickest and safest way to tell them apart.