PET Resin (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

1. Basic Identification Attributes

• • Chemical Name: Poly(ethylene terephthalate)

  • Common/Trade Name: PET Resin, Polyester Resin

  • CAS Number: 25038-59-9

  • Recycling Code: #1 (PETE)

• Synonyms:

• • PETE

  • Polyester resin (thermoplastic)

  • Bottle-grade PET

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

• Physical State: Solid pellets or flakes (recycled).

• Color: Naturally transparent/colorless; can be compounded with colorants.

• Melting Point: ~250 - 260°C

• Glass Transition Temp (Tg): ~70 - 80°C

• Density: ~1.33 - 1.38 g/cm³

• Intrinsic Viscosity (IV): Key grade indicator (e.g., 0.70-0.85 dL/g for bottles).

• Moisture Content: Must be < 0.005% (50 ppm) before processing (highly hygroscopic).

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

• Hazard Class (GHS): Generally not classified as hazardous. Solid polymer is non-toxic.

• Processing Hazards: Thermal decomposition during high-temperature processing (>300°C) can release acetaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Exposure Limits: Dust exposure limits apply for respirable polymer dust (typically 10 mg/m³ total dust, 3 mg/m³ respirable fraction).

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

• Storage Conditions: MUST be stored in a dry, sealed environment below 40°C and 40% relative humidity to prevent moisture absorption, which degrades the polymer during melting.

• Container Type: Sealed aluminum-foil-lined bags, bulk silos, or boxes.

• Shelf Life: Indefinite if kept dry and away from UV light.

• Handling Precautions: Use standard industrial material handling. Ground equipment to prevent static discharge with fine flakes or powder.

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

• Food Contact Compliance: Virgin food-grade resins must comply with FDA 21 CFR or EU 10/2011 regulations for food contact materials.

• Recycled Content: Regulations govern the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET in new food contact applications.

6. Environmental & Health Impact

• Biodegradability: Not biodegradable; persists in the environment if littered.

• Recyclability: Highly recyclable (mechanical and chemical). A cornerstone of the circular economy for plastics.

• Carbon Footprint: Lower than many alternatives like glass or aluminum for packaging when considering weight and transportation.