PET and PP plastics have distinct characteristics with different applications in production and life. In the following article, TAELIM will provide information about these two types of plastics and make detailed comparisons for you to understand clearly.
Brief introduction about PET and PP plastic
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PP (Polypropylene) are both popular thermoplastic polymers, widely used in many industries. Here is basic information about these two common plastics for you to understand:
- PET plastic: This is a durable, transparent and easily recyclable polymer, used mainly in food and beverage packaging due to its product protection and environmental friendliness.
- PP plastic: With its flexibility and good chemical resistance, PP plastic is often used in many other fields such as packaging, automotive components, and textiles.
>>> See more: Recycled ABS Production Process and Common Additives
Comparison of properties of PET and PP plastic
Each type of plastic will have its own unique characteristics, with different durability, heat resistance, chemical resistance, water resistance, etc. Below is a comparison of the characteristics of these two types of plastic for you to understand clearly.
Chemical resistance
PET has moderate chemical resistance. It is suitable for food and beverage packaging applications, but can be affected by strong solvents such as acetone and some acids, limiting its use in heavy chemical applications.
In contrast, PP plastic stands out for its superior chemical resistance, including acids, bases and solvents. This makes PP an ideal choice for industrial applications, laboratories or packaging of harsh chemical materials.
Heat resistance of PP and PET plastics
PET has low heat resistance, maximum from 70-80°C. Therefore, it is mainly used in applications that do not require exposure to high temperatures such as water bottles, food packaging.
On the other hand, PP has higher heat resistance, can withstand temperatures up to 100-120°C, suitable for heat-resistant products such as microwave food containers and automotive parts.
Mechanical strength of PP and PET plastics
PET possesses high tensile strength and stiffness, making it particularly suitable for products that require structural integrity, such as pressure-resistant bottles.
In contrast, PP has good tensile strength but is more flexible under impact, making it ideal for applications that require flexibility such as packaging films and automotive components.
Transparency
PET stands out for its transparency and clear visibility, making it ideal for consumer product packaging such as water bottles and food boxes, allowing consumers to easily see the product inside.
On the other hand, PP plastic is often opaque, making it difficult to achieve the same level of transparency as PET. Although it can be colored, it is not suitable for applications that require high aesthetics.
Waterproof
PET has good air and moisture resistance, helping to prolong shelf life and maintain food quality.
Meanwhile, PP, although good at preventing water vapor, is not as effective as PET in preventing moisture, so it should be used in applications that do not require too strict waterproofing requirements.
Recyclability
PET is easily recycled and has the recycling code #1, supported by many recycling programs, which helps improve product sustainability. Conversely, PP is also recyclable with the recycling code #5, but is less recycled than PET and PP recycling is still not as widespread.
Applications of PET and PP plastic
With its own unique characteristics, each type of plastic will have its own application to produce useful products in life. Below are the detailed applications of these two types of plastic so you can have a clearer view.
PET plastic
In daily life, you will surely come across products made from PET somewhere, specifically as follows:
- Beverage packaging: Commonly used for carbonated soft drink, fruit juice and mineral water bottles thanks to its high transparency and good water resistance.
- Food Containers: Ideal for trays, jars and takeaway containers, ensuring safety from heat exposure during reheating.
- Textile: Used to make clothing and home textiles due to its high durability and effective wrinkle resistance.
- Insulation: PET plastic is also used in insulation materials for electronic devices and household appliances due to its superior thermal stability.
- Cosmetic packaging: Preferred for personal care products due to its high aesthetics and safety for health.
PP plastic
Like PET, PP is also an important ingredient in creating many useful products in life, specifically as follows:
- Food packaging: Widely used in containers, wrapping paper, food bags, suitable for both dry and wet foods.
- Automotive parts: PP plastic is the main material in the production of bumpers and interior parts of cars thanks to its durability and impact resistance.
- Medical supplies: Used to make syringes and laboratory equipment due to its sterilization and chemical resistance.
- Household: Often found in containers, kitchen utensils and furniture due to its versatility and durability.
- Textile: Used to produce non-woven fabrics such as diapers and toiletries, ensuring softness and strength.
>>> See more: Outstanding Features And Basic Applications Of Recycled ABS Plastic
Recently, TAELIM has provided information and compared PET and PP plastic through their properties. Along with that are detailed shares about the applications of the two types of plastic in life. Surely through this, you have understood more about these types of plastic and grasped their basic characteristics.
TAELIM International Transport Company Limited
With the desire to support the development of the plastic industry by providing high quality plastic pellets and services. Taelim Plastic is one of the Vietnamese plastic companies with many years of experience, with a long history of development, specializing in the production, trading, import and export of recycled pellets. By applying advanced technology, meeting European standards with a strict process, we ensure to bring customers the best products and services.
ADDRESS: SH109 Vinhomes Marina, Hai Phong
PHONE: (+84) 9815 888 16
EMAIL: hatnhua.taelim@gmail.com
