Overview
EN ISO 1043-1:2011 (ISO 1043-1:2011) specifies standard symbols and abbreviated terms for basic polymers and their special characteristics. Its purpose is to provide a single, unambiguous shorthand for plastics types (homopolymers, copolymers and natural polymers), to prevent multiple abbreviations for the same material or multiple meanings for the same abbreviation. The published document (fourth edition, 2011) is adopted by CEN as EN ISO 1043-1:2011 and replaces earlier editions.
Key Topics
- Scope and intent: Defines abbreviated terms for basic polymers, symbols for components of these terms, and symbols for special characteristics of plastics.
- Rules for use (Clause 4):
- Only capital letters are used for symbols and abbreviated terms.
- The first occurrence of an abbreviation in text must follow the full name in parentheses.
- Avoid using symbols for subjective properties.
- Abbreviated terms list (Clause 5): A consolidated list of established polymer codes (examples: PE, PP, PVC, ABS, PC, PET, PMMA, PTFE) for homopolymers, copolymers and natural polymers.
- Special-characteristic symbols (Clause 6): Symbols to indicate modifications or special properties (e.g., chlorinated, high-impact, expandable grades) to be appended to base polymer codes.
- Recyclate symbol (Clause 7): Standard symbol for plastics recyclate.
- Examples and guidance (Clause 8, Annexes):
- Annex A: Guide for preparing new abbreviated terms.
- Annex B: Reference list of component symbols used to form polymer abbreviations.
- Annex C: Classification of abbreviated terms grouped by polymer type.
- Normative reference: ISO 472 (Plastics - Vocabulary).
Applications
EN ISO 1043-1:2011 is practical for anyone who needs consistent, internationally recognized polymer identification:
- Product labelling and packaging - clear material identification for manufacturing and end-users.
- Technical datasheets and specifications - concise polymer codes in material declarations.
- Procurement and supply chain - unambiguous material ordering and traceability.
- Recycling and waste management - standardized recyclate identification and sorting.
- Research, publications and standards writing - shorthand polymer notation in technical literature.
- Quality control and testing laboratories - consistent reporting on polymer types and modified grades.
Who uses it
Plastic manufacturers, compounders, product designers, recyclers, regulatory bodies, material testing labs, procurement specialists and technical authors.
Related standards
- ISO 1043 series: Part 2 (fillers & reinforcements), Part 3 (plasticizers), Part 4 (flame retardants)
- ISO 472 (Plastics - Vocabulary)
- ISO 1629 (rubber nomenclature) and ISO 18064 (thermoplastic elastomers nomenclature)
Keywords: EN ISO 1043-1:2011, ISO 1043-1, plastics symbols, abbreviated terms, basic polymers, polymer codes, plastics identification, recyclate symbol.
