PET: A rigid, stable and chemical-resistant material
We offer a wide range of materials for various applications, but sometimes one material stands out a little more than the rest. Polyethylene terephthalate, or PET for short, is one such material. It is known for its high rigidity, stability and resistance to chemicals. This makes it a good choice for many applications.
But what is it that makes PET so special?
Mechanical properties
PET has a range of mechanical properties that make it attractive for many applications. Its high stiffness, measured by Young’s modulus, is one of the most important. Young’s modulus measures a material’s ability to resist deformation. PET has one of the highest values amongst plastic materials. This means that PET can withstand high loads without deforming or losing its shape.
Another important property is its low creep. Creep is when a material deforms over time under a constant load. This can be a problem in many contexts. PET has very low creep, which means it can withstand high loads for long periods without changing shape.
Chemical resistance
PET is also known for its good chemical resistance. This means it withstands exposure to many different chemicals. This is important in applications where the material comes into contact with chemicals or cleaning agents. PET withstands many chemicals, such as acids, bases and solvents. It is therefore a good choice when chemical resistance is important.
How does PET compare with other materials in terms of chemical resistance? A good comparison is polyoxymethylene (POM), which is also a popular material. POM has good chemical resistance, but not quite as good as PET. For example, POM is sensitive to solvents, whereas PET is not.
Low water absorption
PET absorbs very little water from its surroundings. This is beneficial in applications where the material is exposed to moisture or water. Water absorption can cause the material to deform or deteriorate. PET’s low water absorption makes it suitable for use in environments containing water or moisture.
Processing
PET is relatively easy to process and shape. It is therefore a good choice when precise shapes and dimensions are important. PET can be processed using various tools and machines, such as milling cutters, drills and saws. It can also be shaped using heat and pressure. This makes it suitable for complex shapes.
Applications
PET is used in many different applications, such as precision components, food-contact products and electrical applications. Its high rigidity, chemical resistance and low water absorption make it suitable where precise shapes are important and the material is exposed to chemicals or moisture.
If you are considering using PET, bear in mind the material’s chemical resistance and how it is affected by chemicals and cleaning agents. Also consider how easy the material is to process and mould.
Is PET the right material for you? It depends on your specific requirements. With its high rigidity, chemical resistance and low water absorption, PET is a good option for many applications. Please feel free to contact us if you’d like to find out more about PET and how it might suit your particular needs!
PET: A Rigid, Stable, and Chemical-Resistant Material