
Polyethylene
terephthalate is a semi crystalline polymer used to produce films. Two
different film materials PET and PET2 are used to make this film.
PET films are biaxially oriented to stretch the polymer chains creating
strength, then heat quenched to lock in the structure with a small
percentage of polymer crystallization. The heat quenching conditions may
leave a residue on the film that may be relieved with later heat treatment.
These films have good thermal stability. They can be post-processed in the
form of sheet or roll, to have better thermal dimensional stability. They
are subject to shrinkage over long periods of time due to stress relaxation.
They act as barrier to high oxygen, moisture, and aroma. They have one
disadvantage of getting degrade in sunlight unless they contain ultraviolet
inhibitors. They exhibit good water vapor and oxygen gas barrier properties.
Applications: PET Films and Packaging
PET films find a wide range of applications in magnetic tapes, photographic
films, photoresist and hot stamping foils in addition to packaging outlets.
This film finds it use in print lamination with CPP or PE, frozen foods like
vegetables and meats and sterilized bags. It also finds its use in PU skin,
PVC tiles, PC boards and other plate films, laser decorations and insulation
covering.
The excellent thermal properties of PET allow processing and use over a
wider temperature range than most common packaging films. It is ideal for
retort packaging, dual ovenable lidding and boil in the bag
applications. PET film has the chemical inertness and good gas barrier
properties that are important for many medical, pharmaceutical and food
products. They can be used in the demanding steam, ethylene oxide and
radiation sterilization processes.
PET films are used to make various packaging products like packaging
pouches, packaging bags, aluminum foils, dairy packaging, pharma packaging
etc.