PEEK or PolyEther Ether Ketone is a colourless organic thermoplastic polymer. PEEK polymers are obtained by step-growth polymerisation by the dialkylation of bisphenolate salts. It is considered to be one of the best performing thermoplastics In the world. The processing conditions to mould PEEK can influence the crystallinity and hence the mechanical properties.

The processing conditions for forming PEEK can influence the crystallinity and thus the mechanical properties. The Young’s modulus is 3.6 GPA and its tensile strength is between 90 and 100 MPA.

PEEK is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance, even under high temperatures. The glass transition temperature of PEEK is around 143 °C, the melting point around 343 °C. It guarantees high mechanical strength, stiffness and creep resistance over a wide temperature range. It is highly resistant to thermal degradation and degradation of both organic and aqueous environments. It dissolves completely in concentrated sulfuric acid at room temperature.

Due to its robust nature, it is used to make products for demanding applications, such as bearings, piston parts, pumps, HPLC columns, compressor plate valves and cable insulation. It is one of the few plastics that is compatible with ultra-high vacuum applications. It is considered an advanced biomaterial for use in medical implants. It is also widely used in the aviation, automotive and chemical industries. PEEK performs well in applications where continuous high temperatures are common.

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