PET Melting Point, Properties, Applications, & Advantages
| Material |
PET – Polyethylene Terephthalate
|
| Structure | Semi-Crystalline |
| Chemical Formula | (C10H8O4)n |
| Melting Point | 260° (482 °F) |
| Boiling Point | 350 °C (662 °F) |
| Young’s Modulus E | 2800–3100 MPa |
| Tensile Strength σt | 55–75 MPa |
| Glass transition temperature, Tg | 67–81 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity |
0.15 to 0.24 W/(m·K)
|
| Density (ρ) |
1.38 g/cm3, 20 °C 1.370 g/cm3, amorphous 1.455 g/cm3, single crystal
|
| Compressive Strength | 10000 psi |
| Specific Gravity, 73°F | 1.41 |
| Flexural Strength, 73°F | 18000 psi |
The melting point of PET is approximately 260°C (500°F) which is considered high compared to other thermoplastics. It is an important factor in manufacturing as it determines the temperature required to mold and shape the plastic into its final form.
PET is a semi-crystalline plastic, meaning its molecular structure contains both amorphous and crystalline regions. The melting point is the temperature at which the crystalline regions of the plastic begin to melt while the amorphous regions soften.
PET’s melting point is relatively high compared to other plastics, which makes it ideal for high-temperature processing applications.
The melting point of PET is also an essential factor in determining the recyclability of the plastic. The semi-crystalline polymer can be melted and re-melted several times, which allows it to be recycled into new products. However, its melting point must be carefully controlled during the recycling process to ensure that the polymer retains its mechanical properties and does not degrade.
If the temperature is too high, the plastic can become degraded and lose its strength and durability.
Applications
- Due to its impressive resistance to water and barriers, PET is commonly utilized in producing plastic bottles for mineral water, alcoholic beverages, and carbonated drinks.
- PET is also heavily relied upon by the packaging industry for items such as microwave containers, rigid jars, transparent films, and sheets.
- PET’s combination of physical properties and chemical inertness make it suitable for use in food packaging.
- PET’s stiffness and exceptional mechanical strength make it an ideal choice for tape production
Advantages
- PET has an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it a rare and valuable attribute. As a result, it is cost-effective and simple to transport.
- PET has strong resistance to organic substances and water, making it beneficial in some applications but problematic in others
- PET has excellent electrical insulation properties.
- PET is readily available and offers a cost-effective alternative compared to other thermoplastics.
- PET is shatter and break-resistant, making it a suitable alternative to glass in various applications.
The Conclusion
PET melting point plays a crucial role in determining how the material can be processed and used. With a relatively low melting point and narrow processing window, it is important for manufacturers to carefully control the processing conditions to ensure consistent physical properties and performance.
Thus I feel PET plastic will be a great polymer for boosting profits and productivity.