ICON Structural Formulas PBT
polybutylene terephthalate

PBT

offers high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability, ideal for injection moulding in the automotive and electronics industries.

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Abbreviation

PBT

Molecular formula

C₁₂H₁₂O₄

CAS no.

24968-12-5

General description

Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is a semi-crystalline plastic from the polyester group that offers impressive mechanical strength, chemical resistance and thermal stability. Due to its rapid crystallisation, PBT is ideal for injection moulding and is widely used in the automotive and electronics industries. The material's low moisture absorption ensures high dimensional stability and insulation capacity, while its chemical resistance offers protection against aggressive substances such as acids, oils and solvents.

Compared to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), PBT is characterised by more efficient processing in injection moulding, which is due to its faster crystallisation. Its low shrinkage and wear resistance ensure durable products that are used in demanding technical applications. The numerous modified variants of PBT, including flame-retardant and impact-resistant, enable specific application solutions and expand the versatility of this material for different industrial requirements.

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PBT offers

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Low moisture absorption

Ideal for applications requiring high dimensional accuracy.

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High chemical resistance

Resistant to many solvents, acids and oils.

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Excellent mechanical properties

High strength and abrasion resistance combined with good impact resistance.

Properties of PBT

Thermal properties

Polybutylene terephthalate offers impressive resistance to extreme temperatures. The plastic is heat-resistant for short periods and can withstand temperatures of up to 150 °C. The glass transition temperature is approximately 60 °C, while the long-term heat deflection temperature is between 100 and 120 °C. Under extreme conditions, PBT can withstand temperatures of up to 200 °C, making it ideal for heat-resistant applications. Specific types of PBT that are approved for food contact open up possibilities for use in household appliances such as coffee machines and toasters.

Mechanical properties

The mechanical stability of PBT can be described as outstanding. It is known for its high strength and dimensional stability, coupled with low thermal expansion. The material has an extremely low creep tendency, which contributes to the longevity of products. The material has excellent impact strength, especially at low temperatures, making it ideal for applications in cool environments. PBT also offers excellent sliding properties and is extremely wear-resistant, making it perfect for use in technical components such as plain and roller bearings.

Chemical properties

One of the most remarkable qualities of polybutylene terephthalate is its chemical resistance. This plastic is extremely robust against a wide range of chemicals, including acids, oils and solvents. PBT's low moisture absorption contributes to its long-term durability in outdoor applications. It is well protected against weathering, which expands its range of outdoor applications. These chemical properties make PBT an excellent choice for technical applications where chemical resistance is required.

Specific properties

PBT has excellent electrical insulating properties, making it particularly valuable in electrical engineering. The stability of its electrical resistance is hardly affected by water absorption, temperature or frequency, making it ideal for use in electrical components. Compared to PET, the semi-crystalline thermoplastic has the advantage of higher processing efficiency, as it is more suitable for injection moulding.

Processing instructions

Areas of application PBT

Automotive industry: Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is used in the automotive industry for components such as plain and roller bearings, valve parts and pump housings. Its high mechanical strength and dimensional stability, as well as its low moisture absorption, make it ideal for precise and reliable components. PBT also offers excellent chemical resistance to oils and solvents, which are often found in automotive applications.

Electronics industry: In the electronics industry, PBT is the first choice for electrical connector strips and housings. Thanks to its excellent electrical insulation properties, performance remains stable even under changing temperature and humidity conditions. The heat resistance of PBT is ideal for heat dissipation in sensitive electronic devices.

Household appliances: PBT is a popular material in household appliances such as coffee machines, hair dryers and toasters. Its thermal resistance and impact strength are crucial for robustness and durability in everyday use. Due to its resistance to hot water and its approval for food contact, PBT is perfect for appliances that regularly come into contact with food and water.

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