Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
Thermoplastic polyesters are polymers containing ester groups (-CO-O-). Part of this category are:
- PET – Polyethylene terephthalate;
- PBT – Polybutylene terephthalate;
- PMT – Polymethylene terephthalate;
- Poly-p-oxybenzoate.
PET results from the poly-condensation of dimethyl terephthalate (terephthalic acid) and ethylene glycol. Known as thermoplastic polyester, PET shows varying degrees of crystallinity and different mechanical properties. It takes the form of natural or colored granules for formation, compounds with or without stuffing and powders.
Advantages
- resistance and rigidity higher than PBT;
- heat distortion temperature higher than PBT;
- excellent electrical properties;
- low gas permeability, in particular to carbon dioxide;
- recommended for transparent applications;
- good chemical resistance at room temperature;
- recommended for food and medicines;
- transparent to microwave radiation;
- recyclable.
