An Overview of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Uses and Features

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is one of the most crucial plastics used in everyday life. The polymer has many commercial applications ranging from packaging, fabrics, film, electronics and many more in the list. However, the trace of PET uses is found in the water and soda bottle.

PET is a thermoplastic polymer belonging to the polyester family. It is a flexible, colorless and found in the semi-crystalline state. Based on the process applied in production, the end product can be semi-rigid to hard. The polyester resin contains excellent properties like mechanical, chemical resistance, thermal, and dimensional stability. Thus, it is a popular choice for plastic processors around the world.

Over the years, PET has become the number one recyclable polymer worldwide. The recycled PET is made into fiber, packaging sheet, and automotive accessories with a symbol of “1” in the product.

The additives, master batches and unique effect materials are decided based on the need for results. The commercial grades of PET are found in flame retardant, high flow materials, heat resistant, reinforced glass, and various engineering applications where strength is essential. Further, the fillers enhance the surface finish, reduce war page, and other benefits in the process.

Advantages of PET Resin

l Higher-strength and stiffness

l Lightweight to use in transportation.

l Acts as a barrier for moisture.

l Electrical insulation

l High thermal stability with use from -60 to 130 degrees.

l Suitable for transparent application and doesn’t break easily.

l Recyclable and usable in microwave radiation.

l Safe for food and beverage with approval from the FDA and other health agencies.

The main application of PET products:

l Used in the packaging applications for water bottle and carbonated soft drinks.

l Non-oriented sheet to create packaging trays and blister.

l Make PET film to use in tape application.

l Use to make the right cosmetic jars, microwave containers, and other packaging applications.

l PET monofilament to make mesh fabrics in printing, filter oil, and agricultural applications.

l Woven belt, filter cloth, and others.

l Automotive industry to make accessories like wiper arm, gear housing, engine cover, and the connector housing.

l Electronic industry due to its insulation property.

Uses of PET in the textile industry

The uses of PET take place in different forms in the textile industry. Polyester fabrics are firm, flexible and prevent shrinkage over cotton. Further, the materials are light, drag and tear-resistant to enable to produce quality products. The use of PET/Polyester masterbatch helps in enhancing the output and durability of the products. Thus, it has become a popular additive for plastic processors to get more profit in manufacturing.

Processing Conditions for PET Resin

PET is processed by injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and thermoforming. It used to produce film and sheets and blow molding is used to provide transparent bottles in the industry. Similarly, PET resin is to create numerous polymeric products used in everyday life. Plastic manufacturers can improve the productivity and effectiveness of finished products.

Besides that, the recycled PET has many applications like making carpet, jacket, comforter fill, tote bag, food, beverage, film sheet, and strapping. The utility of PET depends on the grades of polymers.