PET Glues
The substrate material is an important factor when picking an adhesive for your application. Especially when it comes to a material that is harder to bond, the right adhesive matters.
What Is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)?
Polyethylene terephthalate, often referred to as PET and sometimes as PETE, is a type of commonly used plastic in the polyester family. It is rigid yet lightweight and known for its high impact resistance, chemical resistance, and low gas permeability. As a recycling code 1 plastic, it is also easily recyclable. PET plastic is very versatile and used in numerous different applications, including packaging, textiles, fabrics, films, medical devices, and bottles.
PET plastic should not be confused with polyethylene (PE) plastic. PE tends to more flexible and has more limited barrier properties than PET plastic.
Bonding PET Plastic
While you can use numerous different adhesives on PET plastic, it is not the easiest plastic to glue. PET plastic has a low surface energy that makes it more challenging for adhesives to wet out and adhere to its surface. Because of this problem, proper surface preparation is recommended, or a primer may be required in combination with the PET plastic adhesive you use.
When picking an adhesive, you also need to consider several factors such as the production environment, end use, equipment, product design, and budget. These factors will help you determine the specific adhesive for polyethylene terephthalate that is right for your needs.
Adhesives for PET Plastic to Try
Because gluing PET plastic can be more challenging, we want to help. We have been in the adhesives industry since 1971 and have seen numerous applications involving the gluing of PET plastic. Consequently, we are sharing a few PET glues that you can explore further for your application.
-
Cyanoacrylate: Infinity SI Cyanoacrylate Glue
When used with a proper primer, this high-performance adhesive can bond PET plastic effectively and quickly. It comes in a variety of viscosities from 5 cps to a thick gel to meet your specific needs. It also tends to be a lower cost than similar products on the market.
-
Methyl methacrylate (MMA): Infinity Bond MMA 500
Depending on the application, this two-part adhesive may be the right choice for you. It is made for structural bonding of low surface energy plastics. It is impact and shock resistance for heavy-duty bonding. It also has a high resistance to extreme temperatures as well as several chemicals. The best part is minimal surface preparation is required with this product.
Different products have different properties that are more suitable for specific uses. While all these adhesives can be a viable option, the best adhesive for PET plastic will depend on the application. If you are having trouble discerning which PET adhesive is right for you, consult the product's technical datasheet or speak with one of our adhesive experts.
Working with Polyethylene Terephthalate Adhesives
Because it is a low surface energy plastic, PET can be challenging to bond. Different types of adhesives may require different preparations to get the bond you need.
For some structural adhesives, surface preparation for PET includes cleaning and degreasing the surface. While some products are designed to cut through these oils and bond to untreated PET, you should test the product before skipping this step. Other adhesives may require that the PET substrate undergoes flame, corona, or plasma treatment. These treatments can increase surface energy and make it easier for the adhesive to bond to the surface. Loose particles should be cleaned away after the surface treatment, and the substrate should be completely dry before applying the adhesive.
A primer specifically designed for cyanoacrylates is often recommended when using a cyanoacrylate on PET plastic. The primer can promote better adhesion to the surface and help you get the best results.
Because every adhesive is different, always follow the manufacturer's recommendations to get optimal results for the adhesive in question.
Let Us Help
You are not expected to be an adhesive expert. At Gluegun.com, we carry a diverse selection of some of the best glues for plastics for purchase online. If you cannot find exactly what you are looking for, we may also have an adhesive for PET plastic that is not found online but is the best fit for your needs. Contact us to speak with our team about your options.
Recommended Products
Ask a Question
Have questions? Our team of adhesive experts can help. Submit your questions and we'll get you answers right away. We're here to help.