Polyethylene terephthalate (aka. PET, PETE, PETP) is a plastic resin of the polyester family that is used to make beverage, food and other liquid containers, as well as for some other thermoforming applications. It is also one of the most important raw materials used in man-made fibers. Depending on its processing and thermal history, it may exist both as an amorphous (transparent) and as a semi-crystalline (opaque and white) material.
The main virtue of PET is that it is fully recyclable. Unlike other plastics, its polymer chains can be recovered for additional use. PETE has a resin code of 1.
PET can be semi-rigid to rigid, depending on its thickness, and is very lightweight. It makes a good gas and fair moisture barrier, as well as a good barrier to alcohol and solvents. It is strong and practically unbreakable. Its natural color is clear and transparent.
According to the Non-Toxic Times, April 2004 published by Seventh Generation, Inc. PETE has been shown to leach Di(2-Ethylhexyl) adipate (CAS Number: 103-23-1) into water. Di(2-Ethylhexyl) adipate has been found to leach from drinking water bottles made from PETE particulary after bottles have been squeezed, scratched or washed with hot water. Deena Lilya was a graduate student at the University of Idaho when she did this research. Di(2-Ethylhexyl) adipate is a suspected human carcinogen.
http://www.seventhgeneration.com/site/apps/s/content.asp?c=coIHKTMHF&b=133099&ct=97028#3
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1041/is_8_81/ai_105163668
PET was patented in 1941 by the Calico Printer's Association of Manchester. The PET bottle was patented in 1973.
See also