The abbreviations PET and PETE frequently cause confusion among consumers trying to understand the composition of plastic products. This mix-up occurs because both acronyms appear on packaging for what seems to be the same material. PET and PETE are, in fact, two different names for the exact same plastic polymer, formally known as Polyethylene Terephthalate. This material is integral to modern packaging and textiles.
PET vs. PETE: Resolving the Nomenclature Confusion
The source of the name variation lies in the extended chemical name: Polyethylene Terephthalate. The shorter abbreviation, PET, is the universally accepted and standard term used globally. The addition of the extra ‘E’ to form PETE emphasizes the “Ester” functional group integral to the polymer chain. PETE is sometimes used, particularly within the Resin Identification Code (RIC) system, to denote the full chemical class. Regardless of whether the label reads PET or PETE, the material’s chemical composition and physical properties remain identical.
Defining the Material: Properties of Polyethylene Terephthalate
Polyethylene Terephthalate is classified as a thermoplastic polymer, meaning it can be melted, molded, and solidified multiple times without significant degradation. The polymer is synthesized through a reaction between ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid under heat and catalysts. This process creates long molecular chains that provide the material with its characteristic strength and durability.
The material’s excellent clarity when manufactured in its amorphous state makes it ideal for visual merchandising. It boasts a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing containers to be lightweight yet resistant to shattering. PET is also valued for its strong barrier properties, which restrict the passage of gases like carbon dioxide and oxygen. This feature is crucial for preserving the freshness and carbonation of soft drinks and protecting food products from spoilage. Beyond packaging, the same polymer is drawn into thin fibers and sold as “polyester,” making up a majority of the world’s synthetic fabric production.
Practical Use and Recycling Code #1
Due to its unique combination of strength, clarity, and barrier function, PET is the material of choice for a vast array of consumer applications. It is widely used to create single-serving and two-liter beverage bottles for water and carbonated soft drinks. Other common applications include jars for peanut butter, containers for cooking oils, and packaging for personal care products.
To help consumers and recycling facilities sort materials, Polyethylene Terephthalate is assigned the Resin Identification Code (RIC) #1. This symbol, typically found molded into the bottom of a container, is a triangle formed by chasing arrows with the number one in the center. The RIC #1 designation indicates that PET is one of the most widely accepted and frequently recycled plastics available. Once collected, the plastic is sorted, cleaned, and melted down into small flakes or pellets. These recycled materials can be converted into new PET products or spun into fibers for carpeting and clothing.