POLYMER TYPES

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Types and Applications

Offering high clarity and strength in packaging and bottle production, PET is produced in different classes: bottle-grade PET, sheet-grade PET/APET and rPET. Review the technical properties to choose the right PET type for your application.

Bottle-grade PETSheet-grade PETrPETTurkey & Global
PET granules, bottle-grade sheet-grade and rPET types

PET PRODUCT GROUPS

PET Types by Application

The difference between PET types comes from intrinsic viscosity (IV) and source (virgin/recycled), which determine clarity, mechanical strength and process suitability.

Bottle-grade PET

A PET class used in beverage and liquid packaging, with high clarity and mechanical strength.

  • Water and soft drink bottles
  • Oil and liquid food packaging
  • Preform production

Sheet-grade PET / APET

PET developed for extrusion and thermoforming applications, offering clarity and formability.

  • Thermoformed trays and containers
  • Transparent sheet and film
  • Blister packaging

rPET

Recycled PET is used in different packaging, fiber and sheet applications depending on its source and quality level.

  • Packaging, subject to regulatory conditions
  • Polyester fiber
  • Sheet and industrial products

TECHNICAL PROPERTIES

Key Properties of PET

PET type selection should be based on clarity needs, barrier performance, recyclability and process conditions.

01

Clarity

High light transmission is why it is preferred in packaging where product visibility matters.

02

Barrier Properties

Offers a good barrier against gas and moisture permeability, extending product life.

03

Light Weight

Its low density offers advantages in packaging weight and logistics costs.

04

Recyclability

Thanks to its extensive recycling infrastructure, it is advantageous in terms of sustainability.

APPLICATIONS

Where Is PET Used?

PET has a wide range of applications from packaging to textiles thanks to its balance of clarity and strength.

  • Water and soft drink bottles
  • Thermoformed trays and blister packaging
  • Polyester fiber and yarn
  • Transparent sheet and film applications
  • Recycled packaging and industrial products
Choosing the Right PET Type

When choosing the PET type for your application, consider IV value, color, acetaldehyde level, virgin/rPET preference and production process together. Contact our team for suitable products and sourcing options.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

About PET

What is the difference between bottle-grade PET and sheet-grade PET?

Bottle-grade PET is produced at an IV value suited to preform and blow molding, while sheet-grade PET has a different IV and additive profile for extrusion and thermoforming.

Is rPET as good as virgin PET?

rPET quality depends on its source, recycling process and cleanliness level; under suitable conditions it can be an alternative to virgin PET in many applications.

Why is the IV value of PET important?

Intrinsic viscosity (IV) is a critical parameter that determines PET’s molecular weight and therefore its mechanical strength and processability.

Do PET prices vary by type?

Yes. Bottle-grade PET, sheet-grade PET and rPET prices can differ by IV value, source and market conditions.

PET SOURCING SOLUTIONS

Let’s find the right PET type for your needs together.

Share your product type, IV value and quantity; we’ll review suitable sourcing options for your bottle-grade PET, sheet-grade PET or rPET requirement.

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