The facts about PET

What is PET?

The abbreviation PET stands for polyethylene terephthalate, a polymer that, from a chemical point of view, is a polyester. Polyesters were first manufactured in the 1930’s, for use as synthetic fibres. Much of the PET produced today is used to produce fibres either for industrial or clothing applications and usually mixed with natural fibres like cotton and wool for the latter. Fleece sweaters, for example, are made of PET fibres. In the early 1950’s, PET use expanded to packaging films. Film and magnetic tape also use PET film as a carrier. In the 1970’s, a production process for PET bottles was developed. PET bottles were initially used for soft drinks, but gradually their use for bottled water expanded.

Learn more about facts around PET in the factsheet from Dr. Frank Welle: The facts about PET