Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

In 1992, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) was introduced onto the French Market.  The use of PET is now widespread due to its versatility in comparison to glass and other plastics.  Comparing PET to glass you would find that it is far more durable and easier to ship.  In comparison to other plastics, it is lighter and allows for optimum shipping.

When PET replaced Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) that lead to a 33% decrease in the amount of material it took to make certain products.  For example, take a 1.5 liter bottle.  When making 1.5 liter bottles out of PVC it took 90 grams to manufacture 2 bottles.  Using 90 grams of PET they could manufacture three 1.5 liter bottle.  PET is also easier to manufacture, and in some cases it has lowered energy cost up to 5%.  This is due to the fact that supplies can manufacture resins with a lower than normal degree of viscosity.

Recycling PET is now occurring progressively around the globe.  The United States, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, and a few western European countries are all hugely contributing to PET recycling.  PET is being used all over the world for a number of different things such as blister packs, strapping, and insulation foam just to name a few.

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