Polyether ether ketone

Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with excellent mechanical and chemical resistance properties that are retained to high temperatures. The term polyether ether ketone is a family of polymers known for their high-performance capabilities. PEEK is part of the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family, a group of high-temperature engineering thermoplastics. Due to its robustness, PEEK is used in a variety of demanding applications, including aerospace, automotive, electrical, and medical industries.

Properties

PEEK exhibits a unique combination of properties, which include excellent mechanical strength, dimensional stability, chemical resistance, wear resistance, and high temperature performance. It has a melting point of around 343°C (649°F) and can be used continuously at temperatures up to 260°C (500°F) in harsh chemical environments. Its resistance to hydrolysis also makes it suitable for use in challenging moisture conditions.

Applications

Aerospace and Automotive

In the aerospace and automotive industries, PEEK is used for components that must withstand high temperatures and mechanical stress, such as engine parts, bearings, and seals. Its lightweight nature contributes to fuel efficiency, making it a preferred material in these sectors.

Electrical Industry

PEEK's excellent electrical insulation properties make it a valuable material in the electrical industry, particularly for wire insulation and connectors that require long-term reliability at high temperatures.

Medical Industry

In the medical field, PEEK is used for surgical implants, including spinal fusion devices and dental implants, due to its biocompatibility, chemical stability, and similarity in mechanical properties to human bone. It is also radiolucent, meaning it does not interfere with X-ray imaging.

Manufacturing Processes

PEEK can be processed by conventional thermoplastic methods such as injection molding, extrusion, and compression molding. It can also be machined using standard metalworking tools, allowing for the production of complex shapes and high-precision components.

Environmental Impact

PEEK is considered an environmentally friendly material due to its longevity and ability to be recycled. Its resistance to chemicals and high temperatures reduces the need for frequent replacement, contributing to waste reduction.

Challenges

The primary challenge associated with PEEK is its high cost compared to other thermoplastics, which limits its use to applications where its unique properties are essential. Additionally, processing PEEK requires specialized equipment and expertise due to its high melting point and processing temperature.

Research and Development

Ongoing research into PEEK aims to enhance its properties and expand its applications. This includes the development of composite materials that incorporate PEEK for improved strength and stiffness, and the exploration of its use in additive manufacturing (3D printing) for custom parts and implants.

See Also

• Polymer
• Thermoplastic
• Biocompatibility
• Additive Manufacturing