One of the simplest ways to carry out a flame test is by cutting a sample from the plastic and igniting it in a fume cupboard. The colour of flame, scent and characteristics of burning can give an indication of the type of plastic: 1. Polyethylene (PE) – Drips, smells like candlewax;
2.Polypropylene (PP) – Drips, smells mostly of dirty engine oil and undertones of candlewax;
3. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA, “Perspex”) – Bubbles, crackles, sweet aromatic smell;
4. Polyamide or “Nylon” (PA) – Sooty flame, smells of marigolds;
5. Acrylonitrilebutadienestyrene (ABS) – Not transparent, sooty flame, smells of marigolds;
6. Polyethylene foam (PE) – Drips, smells of candlewax