General Information:

• Product Name: Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK)
• Classification: Semi-crystalline thermoplastic
• Chemical Structure: Linear aromatic polymer composed of aryl ether and ketone subunits

Typical Properties:

• Density: 1.30 – 1.35 g/cm³
• Tensile Strength: 90 – 100 MPa
• Elongation at Break: 20 – 50%
• Tensile Modulus: 3.5 – 4.5 GPa
• Hardness: Rockwell M 99
• Melting Temperature: 343°C (650°F)
• Continuous Use Temperature: Up to 260°C (500°F)
• Flammability: V-0 (UL 94)
• Water Absorption (24h): 0.10 – 0.25%

Features and Benefits:

• High Temperature Performance: Retains mechanical properties at elevated temperatures.
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to a wide variety of chemicals and organic solvents.
• Wear Resistance: Exhibits low wear and frictional properties.
• Strength: Excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
• Biocompatibility: Suitable for certain medical applications due to its biocompatibility.
• Radiation Resistance: Withstands high levels of radiation without significant degradation.
• Low Outgassing: Suitable for vacuum or space applications.

Applications:

• Aerospace: Aircraft components due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and temperature resistance.
• Automotive: Engine components, seals, and bushings.
• Medical: Medical implants, devices, and surgical instruments.
• Electronics: Connectors, insulators, and semiconductor equipment components.
• Oil & Gas: Seals, compressor rings, and valve components.
• Food Processing: Components requiring high thermal and chemical resistance.

Processing Methods:

• Injection Moulding: Suitable for mass production of detailed components.
• Extrusion: For the creation of rods, tubes, and films.
• Compression Moulding: For sheet and slab forms.
• Machining: PEEK can be efficiently machined into precision parts.

Environmental Impact and Recycling:

• PEEK is challenging to recycle due to its high melting point and chemical resistance.
• Recycling requires specialised processes, but often PEEK waste is repurposed or mechanically recycled.

Storage and Handling:

Store PEEK in a dry environment, as prolonged exposure to moisture can affect processing.

It’s generally safe to handle, but as with all polymers, care should be taken during processing due to high temperatures.

Safety Information:

• In its solid form, PEEK presents no specific hazards.
• When processing or machining PEEK, care should be taken to prevent inhalation of fumes or dust.