How to Glue Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG Plastic)

PETG stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol and is a type of plastic material that belongs to the polyester family.

PETG is a modified version of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate). It contains glycol, which makes it more flexible and impact-resistant than standard PET. It is a thermoplastic polymer that is recyclable. PETG has excellent transparency and optical clarity, making it suitable for applications where visual aesthetics are important. It offers good impact strength and resistance to breakage. It is also resistant to many chemicals, solvents, and environmental influences, making it ideal for various applications. PETG is generally more environmentally friendly than some other plastics due to its recyclability and low toxicity during processing.

PETG is widely used in food packaging, medical devices, cosmetic packaging, display cases, promotional products, and protective covers.
It is also used in 3D printing due to its easy printing characteristics and impact resistance.

The surface tension of PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) typically ranges between 42 and 48 dyn/cm.

Some of the best-known trade names for PETG include Vivak, Eastman Spectar, and Kodar. These names represent specific formulations from various manufacturers, used across different industrial and consumer applications.

Bonding
Ensure that the surfaces to be bonded are clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or other contaminants. Use a non-greasy cleaner if necessary.

Choose an adhesive suitable for plastics like PETG:

• Epoxy adhesive is a highly effective solution for bonding PETG due to its impressive strength, durability, and versatility. It forms extremely strong and reliable bonds. Epoxy also offers a reasonably long working time, allowing for alignment before curing — ideal for bonding larger or more complex components. It is also known for its chemical and solvent resistance.
• Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) offers several advantages. It cures extremely quickly — often within seconds — with exposure to moisture or an activator. It is easy to apply to small bonding areas and does not require complex tools. While it offers strong initial adhesion, it is best suited for applications with low long-term mechanical stress.
• Acrylic adhesive is excellent for PETG bonding for several reasons. It provides clear, aesthetic bonds and is extremely resistant to moisture and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting durability. Acrylic adhesives are also flexible and tolerate movement and thermal expansion without losing strength. As a one-component adhesive, it is easy to use and often low in solvents, making it environmentally friendly.
• UV-curing adhesives specifically designed for PETG offer several advantages. They cure instantly when exposed to UV light, increasing productivity and reducing wait time. These adhesives form strong and durable bonds that withstand mechanical and chemical stress. They also provide optimal optical clarity, and their precise application and adjustment capabilities make them ideal for precision work.
• 2-component polyurethane adhesive offers strong, durable bonds that withstand mechanical stress and movement. It is also flexible enough to absorb thermal expansion without weakening. Additionally, it has excellent chemical resistance, making it stable in chemically demanding environments. These properties make 2K polyurethane adhesives a great choice when strength, flexibility, and resistance are required.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application and curing time.

Testing the adhesive on PETG beforehand can be useful, especially in load-bearing or critical applications.

Manufacturers
Some of the leading PETG producers include:

Plaskolite, known for producing Vivak, valued for its optical clarity and impact resistance.

Eastman Chemical Company, maker of Spectar, known for its excellent chemical resistance and strength.

Kostron, producer of Kodar, recognized for high impact strength and chemical resistance.

These manufacturers offer high-quality PETG materials tailored to a wide range of industrial needs.

Contact us

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