PET, PETE, RPET, PETG Plastic

PET is clear, tough, and has good gas and moisture barrier properties. This resin is commonly used in beverage bottles and many thermoformed plastic packaging clamshells, blisters, and trays.

PET, PETE: Polyethylene Terephthalate and RPET: Polyethylene Terephthalate with Recycled Content

Characteristics:

• Clarity – clear transparent gloss (glass-like)
• Strength – high impact capability and shatter resistance
• Resistance to heat – heats fast and stretches well
• Excellent barrier to oxygen, water, and carbon dioxide
• Exceptional resistance to most solvents
• Capability for hot filling

Common Forms:

• Rigid packaging applications: blister packs and clamshells
• Plastic bottles for soft drinks, water, juice, sports drinks, beer, mouthwash, and salad dressing
• Oven prepared food and frozen food trays

PETG: Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PET modified by Copolymerization)

Characteristics:

• Clarity – clear transparent (glass-like)
• Strength – copolymerization keeps it from crystallizing and reduces cracking
• Resistance to heat – heats fast and stretches well
• Expensive material often “co-extruded”

Common Forms:

• Printed shrink bands