Muovipellettejä

Muovipellettejä, often referred to as plastic pellets or nurdles, are small, granular units of plastic that serve as the primary raw material for manufacturing a vast array of plastic products. These pellets are typically produced by polymer manufacturers through processes like extrusion and pelletizing, where molten plastic is formed into consistent shapes and sizes. They are then cooled and cut into these small pellets, ready for transportation to plastic processors.

The use of muovipellettejä is fundamental to the plastics industry. They are melted down and then molded, extruded, or blown into the final desired forms, such as bottles, films, automotive parts, toys, and countless other consumer and industrial goods. The consistency and purity of these pellets are crucial for ensuring the quality and integrity of the finished plastic products. Different types of polymers, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are processed into pellets for specific applications, each possessing unique properties suitable for different uses.

Despite their essential role, muovipellettejä are a significant environmental concern, particularly in marine environments. Due to their small size, they can easily escape containment during production, transportation, and processing, leading to widespread pollution. These pellets can be mistaken for food by marine animals, entering the food chain and potentially causing harm. Efforts are underway globally to reduce pellet loss and clean up existing pollution through industry initiatives, improved handling practices, and stricter regulations.