Loosening glued PVC joints is challenging due to the chemical bond formed by the adhesive, essentially welding the pieces together. However, there are some techniques you can try. Heating the joint with a heat gun or hair dryer may soften the glue, allowing you to carefully twist and pull the pieces apart. It's important to heat the area evenly and gently to avoid damaging the PVC. Another method involves cutting the joint with a hacksaw or PVC cutter and then using a PVC debonding agent on the remaining glued section. Remember, these methods may not always be effective, and there's a risk of damaging the pipes. In many cases, it might be easier and safer to cut out the glued section entirely and replace it.

Attaching copper pipes to PVC requires a transition fitting, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection. A common approach is using a copper-to-PVC adapter. First, prepare the copper pipe by cutting it to the desired length and deburr the cut edge. Clean the exterior of the copper pipe and the interior of the adapter with a suitable cleaning agent. Apply flux to both the copper pipe and the inside of the copper side of the adapter. Heat the adapter and the pipe evenly with a torch and solder them together, allowing for a solid joint. On the PVC side, ensure the pipe is cut straight, apply PVC primer and cement to both the exterior of the PVC pipe and the interior of the PVC side of the adapter. Press and twist them together, holding for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond. This method requires careful preparation and attention to safety, including working in a well-ventilated area and wearing protective gear.

Plastic polypropylene cups, designated by the recycling symbol #5, are indeed recyclable. This thermoplastic polymer is widely used for packaging, automotive parts, textiles, and consumer products due to its resilience and versatility. While polypropylene is recyclable, the reality of its recycling depends largely on local recycling program capabilities. Not all facilities are equipped to handle #5 plastic, making its recyclability somewhat inconsistent across regions. Consumers are encouraged to check with their local waste management services to determine if polypropylene cups can be recycled in their area. Additionally, reducing usage and reusing these cups when possible are effective ways to minimize environmental impact. Recycling programs continue to evolve, and the push for incorporating more types of plastics into the recycling stream is ongoing, which could improve the recyclability of polypropylene products in the future.