Polyethylene terephthalate agricultural applications

Glass-filled, toughened polyethylene terephthalate) (PET) resins can be readily moulded into highly impact-resistant structural parts for appliances and automotive components. The PET-based compounds are also suitable for construction (e.g. as structural members), equipment housings (e.g. printer and copier parts), agricultural applications (e.g. mower and tractor engine covers), materials handling (e.g. pallets and trays), furniture (e.g. office chair bases), as well as electrical and electronic applications. 

Their mechanical properties are comparable with those of conventional polymers (Clarinval, 2002). There are flexible materials with medium service temperature like polyethylene (PE), relatively stiff materials with medium service temperature like polystyrene (PS) and stiff materials with a high service temperature like polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Table 1.4 gives a comparison of the typical properties of biopolymers with those of polyolefins. The main applications are in the fields of industrial and domestic packaging, bags, fibres and textiles, agricultural films, catering and fast-food, toys, leisure, medicine, hygiene and cosmetics (Weber, 2000 Kab, 2002 Kolybaba et al., 2003). 

---