PEEK

Polyetheretherketon is a very high-quality semi-crystalline polymer with exceptional properties. It can be used at extremely high temperatures, such as a constant temperature of 260 °C or briefly up to 300 °C (the melting point is around 340 °C). Even when it is unreinforced PEEK has a very high strength and Young´s Modulus, combined with high ductility. PEEK also has an excellent chemical resistance, a very low combustibility and very good fire, smoke and toxicity properties, important for aviation applications. The high purity makes medical applications like implants and applications in high vacuum possible. PEEK is generally considered as the highest quality processable polymer and the application possibilities are only limited by the very high cost of resin.

Specific properties
Density: 1.30 g/cm3, higher when filled with fibers.

Mechanical properties: Very high Young’s Modulus (3600-4200 MPa), very high strength (approx. 100 MPa), with glass or carbon fiber much higher. Very good ductility and excellent wear permanence, especially in specifically developed composites.

Thermal properties: Tg around 150 °C, Tm 340 °C. continuous up to 260 °C.

Chemical resistance: Very good resistance against virtually every substance, even at high temperatures, with the exception of concentrated sulphur.

Colour/surface
Light brown colour, not transparent. Because of the very high processing temperature can only be coloured by certain inorganic dyes.

Processing
Injection mouldable at temperatures between 360 and 400 °C.

Applications
Aviation: metal replacement on all kinds of components such as hinges, matrix in thermoplastic fiber composites for military planes, piping.
Industry: piping, chains, electric heat insulation and connectors and pump housings
Oil and gas industry: (underwater)piping and connectors
Analytical Apparatus: piping in HPLC apparatus
Medical: multiple sterilised chirurgical apparatus.
Implants: fixation plates and screws for the vertebral column, joint implants.