Q. With reference to polyethylene terephthalate, the use of which is so widespread in our daily lives, consider the following statements:
1. Its fibres can be blended with wool and cotton fibres to reinforce their properties.
2. Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage.
3. Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products.
4. Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
a) 1 and 3
b) 2 and 4
c) 1 and 4
d) 2 and 3
Correct Answer: a) 1 and 3
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Uses
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a type of plastic that is widely used in the manufacture of various products, including textiles, bottles, and food containers. Let’s evaluate each of the statements provided:
PET in Textile Blends
Its fibers can be blended with wool and cotton fibers to reinforce their properties. This statement is correct. PET fibers, often known as polyester fibers, are commonly blended with natural fibers like wool and cotton to improve the strength, durability, and wrinkle resistance of the fabric.
PET for Alcoholic Beverage Storage
Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage. This statement is not entirely correct. While PET containers are used for storing some types of alcoholic beverages, they may not be suitable for all kinds. Some alcoholic beverages, especially those with high alcohol content, can degrade PET over time, leading to potential contamination of the beverage and a decrease in the quality of the container. Therefore, PET is not universally used for all alcoholic beverage storage.
Recycling PET Bottles
Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products. This statement is correct. PET is a highly recyclable material, and bottles made from PET can be recycled into a variety of products, including fibers for textiles, new bottles, and even materials for construction.
Incineration of PET and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions. This statement is incorrect. Incinerating PET or any other plastic will produce carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. While incineration can be a method of disposal, it is not free from environmental impact, and it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Based on the evaluation, the correct statements are 1 and 3, which means the correct answer is “1 and 3.”
