PETG Plastic (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) Selection Guide

Features of PETG

Advantages

• Transparency: PETG boasts exceptional clarity, making it an excellent choice for applications where visibility and aesthetics are important, such as retail displays and signage.

• Durability: PETG is impact-resistant and tough, making it suitable for products that need to withstand rough handling and potential falls.

• Chemical Resistance: It is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, ensuring its stability in various environments.

• Recyclability: PETG is recyclable, and the use of recycled PETG (rPETG) further promotes sustainability.

• Easy to Fabricate: PETG is easy to cut, shape, and form, making it a versatile material for custom fabrication projects.

• FDA Approval: Many PETG blends are FDA compliant for use in food contact applications, making it safe for packaging and food containers.

Disadvantages

• Lower Heat Resistance: PETG has a lower heat resistance compared to some other engineering plastics like PEEK or PPS. It may soften or deform at elevated temperatures.

• UV Sensitivity: PETG is sensitive to UV radiation and may degrade when exposed to prolonged sunlight. UV-stabilized variants are available to mitigate this issue.

• Not Suitable for High-Temperature Environments: PETG may not be suitable for applications that require exposure to high temperatures due to its lower heat resistance.

Common Applications of PETG

• ​Automotive: PETG is used for interior components like trim, dashboards, and door panels due to its impact resistance and clarity.

• Aerospace: In the aerospace industry, PETG may find use in applications such as windows, lighting covers, and cabin interior components.

• Medical: PETG is used for medical packaging, including blister packs and clamshell packaging, as well as for medical device components because of its biocompatibility.

• Food Packaging: PETG is utilized for food packaging containers, including trays, cups, and bottles, thanks to its transparency and FDA approval for food contact.

• 3D Printing: PETG is a popular filament material for 3D printing due to its ease of use, durability, and transparency.

• Cosmetics and Personal Care: PETG is commonly used for packaging cosmetics, lotions, and personal care products, where product visibility and protection are essential.

• Electronics: PETG is used for manufacturing electrical enclosures, covers, and protective components due to its durability and ease of customization.

• Retail and Display: PETG is extensively used for creating retail displays, signage, and product packaging due to its transparency and aesthetic appeal.

• Point-of-Purchase Displays: PETG is a favored material for creating attractive and durable point-of-purchase displays in retail environments.