Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN)
Properties and Applications
Polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) is a semi-aromatic transparent polyester synthesized from naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid and ethylene glycol. Compared with PET, it has lower oxygen permeability, improved hydrolytic stability, higher tensile strength and service temperature, as well as reduced elongation and shrinkage due to its higher glass transition temperature (120°C vs 75°C). PEN usually surpasses PET in top end demanding applications and is often a good and less expensive alternative to polyimides. Its performance is between durable polyester and high performance polyimides.
PEN is extensively used in film applications. Some examples are flexible printed circuits, labels, laminates, and optical displays. Due to its low oxygen permeability, it is particularly suited for products that are susceptible to oxidation. PEN is also used as a high performance fiber. It has a very high modulus and better dimensional stability than other polyester or nylon fibers.
Manufacturers & Distributors
1The global polyethylene naphthalate market is expected to reach US$ 1.40 billion by 2022. Source: Polyethylene Naphthalate Market Report, Grand View Research 2015