PET is a strong, lightweight thermoplastic known for its excellent clarity, high tensile strength, good chemical resistance, and recyclability. It is widely used in packaging, fiber, and engineering applications. PET is one of the most common plastics for food-contact applications due to its safety and barrier properties against moisture and oxygen.
Key Parameters:
Intrinsic Viscosity (IV): 0.60 – 1.00 dL/g (bottle grade: 0.70-0.85; fiber grade: 0.60-0.70)
Density: 1.35 – 1.41 g/cm³
Melting Point: 245 – 265°C
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): 70 – 80°C
Crystallization Temperature (Tc): 120 – 160°C
Tensile Strength: 50 – 80 MPa
Elongation at Break: 50 – 300% (depending on orientation)
Water Absorption (24h): 0.1 – 0.2%
Light Transmission: >85% (for amorphous clear grades)
Processing Methods: Injection molding, extrusion blow molding, stretch blow molding (PET preforms), sheet extrusion, thermoforming, fiber spinning
Typical Applications: Plastic bottles (water, carbonated drinks, juices), food trays and containers, polyester fibers (textiles, carpets), strapping tape, X-ray films, industrial yarns, and engineering plastic parts (reinforced grades)