The key distinction between PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) and PIR (Post-Industrial Recycled) plastic lies in their point of origin within the product lifecycle. PCR material comes from products that have been used by consumers and then discarded, such as recycled water bottles, food containers, or old electronics housings. The recycling process for PCR is complex, involving collection, sorting, intensive washing, and reprocessing to ensure purity and performance.
In contrast, PIR plastic, also known as post-industrial regrind, is generated during the manufacturing process itself. It includes scrap like sprues, runners, off-spec parts, and trimmings that never reached the consumer. Because this material is clean, controlled, and of a known composition, its recycling is much more straightforward. It can often be reground and immediately reintroduced into the production line with minimal processing, making it a highly efficient form of internal recycling.
