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Polyethylene terephthalate (aka. PET, PETE, PETP) is a plastic resin of the polyester family that is used to make beverage, food and other liquid containers, as well as for some other thermoforming applications. It is also one of the most important raw materials used in man-made fibers. Depending on its processing and thermal history, it may exist both as an amorphous (transparent) and as a semi-crystalline (opaque and white) material.
The main virtue of PET is that it is fully recyclable. Unlike other plastics, its polymer chains can be recovered for additional use.
PET can be semi-rigid to rigid, depending on its thickness, and is very lightweight. It makes a good gas and fair moisture barrier, as well as a good barrier to alcohol and solvents. It is strong and practically unbreakable. Its natural color is clear and transparent.
PET was patented in 1941 by the Calico Printer's Association of Manchester. The PET bottle was patented in 1973.
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