Polyethylene terephthalate glycol, or commonly known as PETG, is a thermoplastic polyester that provides excellent clarity, chemical resistance and durability for use in thermoformed rigid packaging applications. This widely used material is a glycol-modified form Polyethylene Terephthalate, or PET, and is used extensively in rigid medical packaging applications. PET and PETG are created through specific chemical reactions involving the polymerization of their monomers, and the way they are created directly impacts their physical properties and suitability for different applications. Below are 6 important facts about PETG:
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PETG is a glycol-modified PET: PETG is a glycol-modified copolymer of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). However, instead of adding an additional glycol during the manufacturing process, the Ethylene Glycol (EG) monomer is replaced with a different glycol monomer, Cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM). The addition of glycol at the molecular level gives PETG different chemical properties compared to PET, such as increased flexibility, durability, and temperature resistance.
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PETG offers improvements vs PET: The CHDM glycol-modification process used to produce PETG prevents crystallization and hazing, resulting in a clear amorphous polymer with a lower heat distortion temperature, but an increased glass transition temperature, resulting in a slightly higher temperature resistance. As a result, PETG exhibits increased impact resistance and is highly impact resistant, which is an added benefit for packaging applications that require durability and protection. PETG also offers increased flexibility vs PET resulting in a material that can be extruded, thermoformed or molded into a wide variety of products. PETG is well suited for various manufacturing processes, including die cutting, and its softer surface allows for easier fabrication and forming.
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PETG is highly versatile: Because of the ease of forming, clarity and aesthetics of PETG materials, PETG is one of the most widely used types of plastic available and can be used in a variety of food, medical, pharmaceutical and consumer goods applications including:
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Drink bottles
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Medical implants & braces
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Medical device & pharmaceutical packaging
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Material used in 3D printers
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Retail & POP displays
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Graphic displays & signage
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Electrical packaging
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Blister packaging
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Cosmetics & personal care packaging
In retail and POP displays, PETG is used to attract customers due to its clarity and durability, making it ideal for eye-catching signage and engaging consumer interest. Its affordability as a packaging material also makes it a popular choice for manufacturers and brands seeking cost-effective solutions.
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PETG is sterilizable: PETG is widely used for rigid medical & pharmaceutical packaging in part due to its compatibility with various sterilization processes. PETG is a preferred material for sterile barrier package formats, offering reliable protection for sensitive medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
In medical packaging, effective decontamination using sophisticated sterilization techniques is a key step in preventing the introduction or transmission of potentially dangerous pathogenic organisms and diseases to the medical device and, in turn, to the patient. Hence, this is a critical specification for materials to meet in order to be considered suitable for use in medical packaging.
PETG, therefore, offers compatibility with sterilization techniques commonly used in the medical industry including EtO, Gamma, and E-Beam Radiation sterilization methods. PETG is not, however, compatible with autoclave sterilization
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PETG is widely used in rigid medical packaging: The sterilizability of PETG combined with improved formability of the material makes it ideal for intricate trays packaging for the medical device and pharmaceutical markets.
The global PETG market size for Medical and Pharmaceutical Rigid Packaging was valued at USD 201.7 million in 2023 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 7% during the forecast period, reaching USD 302.8 million by 2028. Most of this growth is attributable to extrusion and thermoforming including applications such as trays and blister for medical device packaging.
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PETG cannot be recycled the same as PET: While PET grade used in widely recyclable bottle applications, PETG is not considered recyclable with other RIC #1 materials because of the glycol-modification. This modification changes the plastics’ melting temperature, which makes it more difficult to recycle along with regular PET and can contaminate the recycling stream and even damage recycling machinery, so PETG is therefore not accepted at traditional curbside recycling programs.
However, there are sustainable options for PETG packaging. Packaging manufacturers and brand owners or medical OEMS concerned with the sustainability of their packaging can use grades of RPETG recycled through non-traditional methods such as a closed-loop system, where post-industrial recycled PETG is collected and incorporated at the extrusion level, or by purchasing RPETG resin recycled and reprocessed through chemical recycling processes. As a type of pet plastic or pet g, PETG is manufactured to be fully recyclable through these specialized processes, and its manufacture allows for more sustainable packaging options.
Where PETG Shines: Applications and Industries
PETG plastic stands out as a top choice in a wide array of consumer and commercial applications, thanks to its unique blend of chemical resistance, impact resistance, and overall durability. As a thermoplastic polyester, PETG material is exceptionally popular in industries that demand reliable and high-performance packaging material.
In the medical field, PETG is highly valued for medical device packaging and pharmaceutical packaging. Its ability to withstand harsh sterilization processes—such as gamma irradiation and ethylene oxide—makes it ideal for protecting sensitive medical devices, including braces and surgical trays. The rigid structure and heat resistance of PETG ensure that medical devices remain secure and uncontaminated, while its excellent clarity allows for easy inspection of packaged contents.
The beverage industry also relies heavily on PETG for manufacturing bottles and containers. Its chemical properties make it resistant to a variety of substances, ensuring that beverages remain safe and uncontaminated during storage and transport. PETG’s impact resistance and durability mean that bottles and packaging options can withstand the rigors of shipping and handling without cracking or breaking.
Food packaging is another area where PETG materials excel. The material’s resistance to chemicals and higher temperatures makes it suitable for packaging a wide range of food products. PETG is also easy to die-cut, mold, and extrude, allowing manufacturers to create custom packaging solutions that meet the specific needs of their products. Its crystal-clear appearance enhances product visibility, making it a favorite for retail displays and point-of-purchase packaging. For more details on PET packaging material, including its advantages for food packaging, visit ICPG.
Retailers and brands appreciate PETG for its versatility in commercial applications. From blister packaging to retail displays, PETG offers a combination of affordability, durability, and a crystal-clear finish that attracts consumers. Its resistance to UV light helps maintain the clarity and appearance of packaging over time, ensuring products look their best on the shelf.
Sustainability is increasingly important in today’s market, and PETG delivers here as well. The material is fully recyclable, and a well-established recycling stream allows companies to reduce waste and support environmental goals. Compared to regular PET and other plastics, PETG offers added benefits such as higher impact resistance and superior chemical properties, making it a preferred choice for companies seeking sustainable and high-quality packaging solutions.
In summary, PETG plastic is a highly versatile and reliable material that shines in a variety of industries, including medical device packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, food packaging, and retail displays. Its unique combination of chemical resistance, impact resistance, and recyclability ensures that PETG will remain one of the most widely used types of plastics for packaging and commercial applications well into the future.
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