5.3 Relative Permittivity and Dielectric Dissipation Factor 30
6.0 Tribology 32
6.1 Wear 32
6.2 Friction 33
6.3 Limiting Pressure and Velocity 34
Page
7.0 Environmental Resistance 37
7.1 Chemical Resistance 37
7.1.1 Acids 37
7.1.2 Alcohols 38
7.1.3 Aldehydes and Ketones 39
7.1.4 Bases 39
7.1.5 Esters 39
7.1.6 Ethers 40
7.1.7 Halogenated Organics 40
7.1.8 Hydrocarbons 40
7.1.9 Inorganic Reagents 41
7.1.10 Miscellaneous Reagents 44
7.1.11 Organo-Nitrogen Compounds 45
7.1.12 Phenols 45
7.1.13 Sulphur Compounds 45
7.2 Hydrolysis Resistance 46
7.3 Radiation Resistance 47
8.0 Specifications and Approvals 48
8.1 Aerospace/Military 48
8.2 Automotive 49
8.3 Medical 49
8.4 Industrial 49
8.5 Wire and Cable 49
8.6 Miscellaneous 50
2
1.0 Introduction
Victrex plc is the sole manufacturer of PEEK™ polymer. The repeat unit comprises oxy-1.4-phenylene-oxy-1.4-phenylene-carbonyl-1.4-phenylene, as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1 The repeat unit of the polyaryletherketone sold under the trade name PEEK™.
This linear aromatic polymer is semi-crystalline and is widely regarded as the highest performance thermoplasticmaterial currently available. A summary of key physical properties is as follows:
High Temperature PerformancePEEK™ polymer and compounds typically have a glass transition temperature of 143°C and a meltingtemperature of 343°C. Independent tests have shown that PEEK™ polymer exhibits a heat distortion temperatureof up to 315°C (ISO 75 glass fibre filled) and a Continuous Use Temperature of up to 260°C (UL 746B).
Wear ResistancePEEK™ polymer has excellent friction and wear properties which are optimised in the specially formulatedtribological grades 450FC30 and 150FC30. These materials exhibit outstanding wear resistance over wideranges of pressure, velocity, temperature and counterfacial roughness.
Chemical ResistancePEEK™ polymer has excellent resistance to a wide range of chemical environments, even at elevatedtemperatures. The only common solvent for PEEK™ polymer is concentrated sulphuric acid.
Fire, Smoke and ToxicityPEEK™ polymer is highly stable and requires no flame retardant additives to achieve a V-O rating at 1.45mmthickness. The composition and inherent purity of the material results in extremely low smoke and toxic gasemission in fire situations.
Hydrolysis ResistancePEEK™ polymer and compounds are not chemically attacked by water or pressurised steam. Components madefrom these materials retain a high level of mechanical properties when continuously conditioned in water atelevated temperatures and pressures.
Electrical PropertiesThe excellent electrical properties of PEEK™ polymer are maintained over a wide frequency and temperaturerange.
PurityPEEK™ polymer materials are inherently pure with exceptionally low levels of extractable ionic species andoutgassing.
3
COO
O
n
Processability
Processability is one of the most important features of PEEK™ polymer. Complex high volume components maybe directly formed using a wide range of conventional thermoplastic processing equipment. Injection mouldeditems do not require any post-process thermal treatment. Therefore, truly high performance devices are readilymass produced without the need for annealing or conventional machining.
1.1 Sales RangePEEK™ polymer is available as natural material or Victrex formulated compounds. These high performancematerials are readily processable using a wide range of conventional thermoplastic processing equipment.
1.1.1 Natural PEEK™ PolymerNatural PEEK™ polymer is available as powder or granules, in the following grades.
Powder is generally used for extrusion compounding.
Granule materials may be considered as the general purpose extrusion and injection moulding grades. The lowand medium melt viscosity materials are suitable for use in wire coating, film and monofilament production.
1.1.2 Fibre Reinforced GranulesVictrex has formulated high performance compounds which feature optimum levels of carbon and glass fibres.
These materials are generally used for injection moulding and extrusion operations.
4
Powder
150P Low melt viscosity
380P Medium melt viscosity
450P Standard melt viscosity
Granules
151G Low melt viscosity
381G Medium melt viscosity
450G Standard melt viscosity
30% Glass Fibre Reinforced Granules
150GL30 Low melt viscosity
450GL30 Standard melt viscosity
30% Carbon Fibre Reinforced Granules
150CA30 Low melt viscosity
450CA30 Standard melt viscosity
5
1.1.3 Fine PowderVictrex manufacture a fine powder grade for coating and compression moulding operations.
1.1.4 Tribological Compound GranulesVictrex has formulated a special tribological compound which features optimum levels of solid lubricants(graphite and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)) with carbon fibre reinforcement to enhance mechanical properties.
These materials find applications in devices which must survive demanding tribological contacts such as thrustwashers and seals.
1.1.5 Coloured GranulesPEEK™ polymer is naturally grey coloured, the only other colour of unreinforced granule produced by Victrexis black. It is possible to colour PEEK™ polymer using specially formulated masterbatches (See Section 6.6).
Most injection moulded components can be easily produced using the standard viscosity material. However, forespecially complex geometries with thin flow sections, low melt viscosity material is advised.
Powder
150PF Low melt viscosity
450PF Standard melt viscosity
150XF Ultra fine powder low viscosity
Coloured Granules
450G Black 903 Standard melt viscosity, carbon black
1.2 Typical PropertiesPEEK™ polymer and compounds are regarded as the highest performance materials which may be used todirectly form components using conventional thermoplastic processing technology.
1.2.1 Natural PEEK™ PolymerTable 1 General Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.
Table 2 Mechanical Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.
6
Property Test Method Units 151G 381G 450G
Colour N/A N/A Grey Grey Grey
Density (Crystalline) ISO 1183 g cm-3 1.32 1.32 1.32(Amorphous) 1.26 1.26 1.26
Table 12 Thermal Properties of Low Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.
Victrex believe that the fire, smoke, toxicity and electrical properties of the low viscosity compounds are similarto those of the standard viscosity materials. The information contained in this publication (and otherwisesupplied to users) is based on our general experience and is given in good faith. The data supplied within thispublication is subject to the errors associated with the testing standards followed. Application-specific test workis recommended for all PEEK™ polymer components.
10
Property Test Method Units 150GL30 150CA30 150FC30
Melting Point (Peak of Endotherm) DSC °C 343 343 343
Heat Distortion Temperature ISO 75 °C >300 >300 >293
Thermal Conductivity ASTM C177 W m-1 °C-1 0.43 0.92 0.24
Continuous Use Temperature UL 746B °C Upto 260 Upto 260 Upto 260
2.0 Mechanical Properties
PEEK™ polymer is widely regarded as the highest performance material processable using conventionalthermoplastic processing equipment.
2.1 Tensile PropertiesThe tensile properties of PEEK™ polymer exceed those of most engineering thermoplastics. A comparativetensile plot of PEEK™ polymer materials is shown in Figure 2, where stress is defined as the applied forcedivided by the original cross-sectional area and the strain as the extension per unit length of the sample.
Figure 2 Typical Stress Versus Strain Curves for PEEK™ Polymer Based Materials.
The initial part of each trace in Figure 2 is approximated to be linear and by definition is equivalent to the tensilemodulus. Due to the viscoelastic nature of PEEK™ polymer, a range of values for tensile properties may beobtained by testing at different strain rates or temperatures. Therefore, evaluations of the tensile parameterscontained in the data tables were conducted in accordance with the ISO 527 testing standard with strain ratesset at either 5 or 50mm min-1.
PEEK™ polymer is used to form structural components which experience or continually operate at hightemperatures. Figure 3 shows a plot of tensile strength versus temperature for PEEK™ polymer materials anddemonstrates a high retention of mechanical properties over a wide temperature range.
11
0.0 0.05 0.10 0.15 0.20 0.25 0.30 0.35
300
200
250
100
150
0
50
Strain
Stre
ss (M
Pa)
450CA30
450GL30
450FC30450G
Figure 3 Tensile Strength Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.
2.2 Flexural PropertiesPEEK™ polymer and the high-performance compounds based on PEEK™ polymer exhibit outstanding flexuralperformance over a wide temperature range. Due to the viscoelasticity of these materials, evaluations wereperformed using a defined strain rate three point bending test (standards ISO 178 and ASTM D790) with theresults plotted versus temperature in Figures 4 and 5.
Figure 4 Flexural Strength Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.
12
-100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
450CA30
450GL30
450FC30
450G
Temperature (˚C)
Tens
ile S
treng
th (M
Pa)
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
-100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350
450CA30
450GL30
450FC30
450G
Temperature (˚C)
Flex
ural
Stre
ngth
(MPa
)
0
50
150
100
200
250
300
400
350
Figure 5 Flexural Modulus Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.
Flexural strength has been defined as the maximum stress sustained by the test specimen during bending, andflexural modulus as the ratio of stress to strain difference at pre-defined strain values.
The data plotted in Figures 4 and 5 define the exceptional temperature range over which PEEK™ polymer canbe used as a structural material. However, flexural strength measurements made above 200˚C are subject toerror as the yield point of these materials is at greater than the 5% strain specified in the test standard. Abovethis value, a linear stress to strain relationship cannot be assumed for the calculation of flexural properties.
13
450CA30
450GL30
450FC30
450G
Temperature (˚C)
Flex
ural
Mod
ulus
(GPa
)
0
5
10
15
20
25
-150 -100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
2.3 Creep PropertiesCreep may be defined as the deformation observed in a sample versus time under a constant applied stress.PEEK™ polymer has outstanding creep resistance for an engineering thermoplastic material and may sustainlarge stresses over a useful service lifetime without significant time induced extension. Figures 6 and 7 displaythe creep behaviour of PEEK™ polymer 450G with respect to applied stress, time and temperature.
Figure 6 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G at 23˚C.
Figure 7 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G at 150˚C.
14
50MPa
40MPa
30MPa
20MPa
10MPa
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
train
(%)
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
10011000 1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 1008 1009
5MPa
4MPa
3MPa
2MPa
1MPa
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
train
(%)
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
10011000 1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 1008
The magnitude of stress, time and temperature required to induce accurately measurable (> 0.5%) strains isexceptionally large for an unfilled polymer. Values of creep modulus (Es) may be calculated from such data andused as a measure of resistance to creep deformation. The creep moduli for some of the high performancecompounds from the PEEK™ polymer grade range are plotted against time in Figure 8.
Figure 8 Creep Modulus Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Materials at 23˚C and 150˚C.
From the data in Figure 8 it is clear that reinforcement significantly enhances the excellent creep resistance ofPEEK™ polymer and that the carbon fibre based compounds (CA30) are the highest performance materialstested.
If analogous plots to Figures 6 and 7 are constructed for 450CA30 (Figures 9 and 10), the time dependentstrain behaviour over experimentally practicable lifetimes may be evaluated. From the data shown in Figure 9it is clear that there is little measurable creep at ambient temperatures even for the highest values of stress (50MPa) applied to the 450CA30 samples.
At elevated temperatures (Figure 10), under the same applied stresses, small but measurable time dependentstrains are observed. Although the creep resistance of natural PEEK™ polymer is outstanding for an unfilledmaterial, 450CA30 can be used to make structural components which will withstand continual loading over awide temperature range.
15
450CA30 at 0.2% strain & 23˚C
450CA30 at 0.2% strain & 150˚C
450GL30 at 0.1% strain & 150˚C
450G at 0.1% strain & 150˚C
450GL30 at 0.1% strain & 23˚C
450G at 0.1% strain & 23˚C
Time (sec)
Mod
ulus
(GPa
)
0
5
10
15
20
1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 10081001
Figure 9 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Compound 450CA30 at 23˚C.
Figure 10 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Compound 450CA30 at 150˚C.
16
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
train
(%)
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1001 1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 10071000
40MPa
50MPa
30MPa
20MPa
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
train
(%)
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1001 1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 10071000
40MPa
30MPa
20MPa
2.3.1 Creep RuptureThe performance of thermoplastic materials under a constant applied stress may also be considered in terms ofcreep rupture. Creep rupture indicates the maximum loading a material will sustain for a given period before itfails, where failure is defined as brittle or necking deformation. Figure 11 shows tensile creep rupture dataversus time for natural and reinforced PEEK™ polymer materials.
Figure 11 Tensile Stress Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Materials at 23˚C.
Figure 11 shows that there is little difference between the grades at ambient temperatures over the time-scaletested. Therefore, experiments were performed at elevated temperatures (Figure 12).
17
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
tress
(MPa
)
0
20
60
40
100
120
80
1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 10081001
450G
450GL30
Figure 12 Tensile Stress Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Materials at 150˚C.
Figure 12 shows the effect of fibre reinforcement and orientation for PEEK™ polymer materials. The anglesindicate the direction of testing with respect to melt flow. 450CA30 exhibits superior creep rupture performanceover the other materials tested and to most high performance thermoplastics. Therefore, 450CA30 materials areoften used to form components which experience permanent loading at high temperatures.
18
Time (sec)
Tens
ile S
tress
(MPa
)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 10081001
450G
450CA30
0˚ & 90˚
0˚
0˚
90˚
90˚450GL30
2.4 Fatigue PropertiesFatigue may be defined as the reduction in mechanical properties during continued cyclic loading. In theseexperiments a tensile sample is stressed to a pre-defined limit and released to zero tension repeatedly at a givenfrequency using a square waveform. After a certain number of cycles, samples undergo either brittle failure orplastic deformation. The failure mechanism is often dependent on the extent of localised heating that occurswithin the sample during testing and has been shown to vary with frequency.
Figure 13 shows the maximum number of cycles that natural PEEK™ polymer and the high performancecompounds in the Victrex grade range can withstand under fatigue stress at ambient temperatures.
Figure 13 Fatigue Stress Versus Cycles to Failure for PEEK™ Polymer Materials at 23˚C at 5-20 Hz.
Figure 13 clearly shows that the excellent fatigue resistance of PEEK™ polymer 450G is enhanced by both glassand carbon fibre reinforcement. Independent studies have shown that these compounds feature the optimumlevel of reinforcement for improved fatigue and mechanical performance.
The fatigue performance of composite materials is a function of both the fibres (aspect ratio, sizing) and themechanical properties of the matrix. Figure 14 compares the fatigue performance of PEEK™ polymer with otherengineering thermoplastics containing the same amount and type of glass fibres.
19
Cycles to Failure
Tens
ile S
tress
(MPa
)
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
100
105
110
1001 1002 1003 1004 1005 10061000
450G
450GL30
450CA30
Figure 14 Fatigue Stress Versus Cycles to Failure for Various High Performance Engineering ThermoplasticMatrices Containing the Same Reinforcement*.
*Figure taken from Shi-Shen Yau, Tsu-Wei Chou, SAMPE Quarterly, April 1985.
20
Cycles to Failure
Tens
ile S
tress
(MPa
)
15
20
25
30
35
1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 10081002
PEEK™ Polymer 450G
Polyetherimide
Polyethersulphone
2.5 Impact PropertiesImpact testing may be classified according to the energy imparted to the impactor prior to contact with thematerial. Low energy studies are performed using a pendulum geometry, whereas higher energy failures areevaluated using falling weight apparatus. The impact properties of a material are strongly dependent on testgeometry (notch radius and position), temperature, impact speed and the condition of the sample (surfacedefects). Therefore, in an attempt to unify these variables, measurements are often made in accordance with oneof the testing standards.
The impact strength of PEEK™ polymer and some of the high performance compounds in the Victrex graderange were evaluated using the Charpy test protocol (ISO 179, 0.25mm notch radius) and are shown at varioustemperatures in Figure 15.
Figure 15 Notched Charpy Impact Strength Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.
The data in Figure 15 shows that there is little reduction in the notched impact properties of these materials atsub-ambient temperatures. All PEEK™ polymer samples tested above 100˚C could not be broken using theforces and pendulum distances specified in the test standard.
Comparative studies of the impact strengths of some high performance materials are shown in Figures 16 and17 (ASTM D256).
21
Temperature ˚C
Cha
rpy
Impa
ct S
treng
th (K
J m–2
)
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
-65 -20 23 100 250
No Break
450G450GL30450CA30
Figure 16 Unnotched Izod Impact Strength at 23˚C for Various High Performance Materials.
The bar chart shown in Figure 16 allows comparisons to be made between materials from the Victrex graderange and other high performance compounds. Natural 450G PEEK™ polymer has the highest unnotchedimpact strength and remains unbroken under the Izod test conditions.
Figure 17 Notched Izod Impact Strength at 23˚C for Various High Performance Materials.
22
Izod
Impa
ct S
treng
th (J
m–1
)
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
PEEK™ 450G
PEEK™ 450GL30
PEEK™ 450CA30
PAI +30% Glass
PPS +40% Glass
Polyimide
unbroken
Izod
Impa
ct S
treng
th (J
m–1
)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
PAI 30%Glass
PEEK™ 450GL30
PEEK™ 450CA30
PEEK™ 450G
Polyimide PPS +40% Glass
Figure 17 shows the effects on the impact strength of notching various materials. The geometry of the notch hasbeen shown to be critical to the measured impact strength. Therefore, in component design, moulded notchesor acute angles should be avoided.
Instrumented falling weight techniques are used to evaluate higher energy impacts by monitoring the forces anddisplacements required to destructively test a sample.
Figure 18 Failure Energy Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.
Figure 18 shows the energy to failure of PEEK™ polymer and compound versus temperature to failure.
23
450CA30
450GL30
450G
Temperature (˚C)
Failu
re E
nerg
y (J)
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0-100 0 100 200 300
3.0 Thermal Properties
PEEK™ polymer has a glass transition temperature of 143˚C and, because it is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic,retains a high degree of mechanical properties close to its melting temperature of 343˚C.
3.1 Short Term EffectsThe short term thermal performance of a material may be characterised by determining the Heat DistortionTemperature (HDT, ISO 75). This involves measuring the temperature at which a defined deformation is observedin a sample under constant applied stress. A comparative chart of high performance materials using ISO 75HDT values (Figure 19) for a defined applied stress of 1.82MPa shows that PEEK™ polymer 450G compoundsare superior to the other materials tested.
Figure 19 Heat Distortion Temperature for a Range of High Performance Materials.
3.2 Long Term EffectsPolymeric materials are subject to chemical modification (often oxidation) at elevated temperatures. These effectsmay be evaluated by measuring the Continuous Use Temperature (CUT) otherwise known as the Relative ThermalIndex (RTI) as defined by Underwriters Laboratories (UL 746B). This test determines the temperature at which50% of material properties are retained after a conditioning period of 100,000 hours. The UL RTI rating fornatural PEEK™ polymer and the high performance materials in the Victrex grade range are charted againstother engineering materials in Figure 20.
The bar chart in Figure 20 shows that PEEK™ polymer materials may only be matched in thermal performanceby certain polyimides. However, these polyimides are only available as rod-stock or finished product, whichoften precludes their use on a production cost or component design basis.
24
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C
)
100
150
200
250
300
PEEK™450CA30
PEEK™450GL30
PAI + 30%Glass
PPS +30% Glass
Polyimide PES PEEK™450G
Figure 20 Relative Thermal Index (RTI) for a Range of High Performance Materials.
3.2.1 Heat AgeingAs part of the Underwriters Laboratory evaluation of the physical performance of polymeric materials withrespect to temperature, heat ageing experiments are performed. This involves exposing test bars to a constanttemperature over a pre-defined time and subsequently measuring the change in tensile properties. The retentionof these properties is calculated with respect to a control and is used as a measure of the thermal ageingperformance. The outstanding percentage retention of tensile strength and elongation to break for naturalPEEK™ polymer is plotted versus conditioning time in Figure 21.
Figure 21 Tensile Strength and Elongation to Break Versus Heat Ageing Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G asDetermined by Underwriters Laboratory.
25
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C
)250
100
150
200
PEEK™450G
PEEK™450GL30
PEEK™450CA30
Polyimide PAI+ Glass
PPS + 40%Glass
PES PSU
Rete
ntio
n of
Pro
perty
(%)
120
0
20
40
60
80
100
Tensile Strength at 310˚C
0 20 150 500 1500 3500 10000Hours exposure
Tensile Strength at 200˚CElongation at 200˚CElongation at 310˚C
4.0 Flammability and Combustion Properties
In a fire, the thermal and chemical environment is changing constantly. Therefore, it is difficult to simulate theconditions experienced by a material in a fire situation. The four commonly accepted variables are flammability,ignitability, smoke and toxic gas emission. The chemical structure of the PEEK™ polymer is highly stable andrequires no flame retardant additives to achieve low flammability and ignitability values. The composition andinherent purity of PEEK™ polymer results in excellent smoke and toxicity performance.
4.1 FlammabilityThe flammability of a material may be defined as the ability to sustain a flame upon ignition from a high energysource in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen. The recognised standard for the measurement of flammability isthe Underwriters Laboratory test UL94. This involves the ignition of a vertical specimen of defined geometry andmeasures the time for the material to self-extinguish. The average time from a repeated ignition sequence is usedto classify the material. Natural 450G PEEK™ polymer has been rated as V-0 (1.45mm thickness) which is thebest possible rating for flame retardancy.
4.2 IgnitabilityThe ignitability of a material may be considered in terms of the minimum concentration of oxygen which willjust sustain a flame ignited from a high energy source (ASTM D2863-95). A comparative bar chart of thelimiting oxygen indices for a range of engineering polymers is shown in Figure 22.
Figure 22 Limiting Oxygen Index for a Range of Engineering Polymers.
The data charted in Figure 22 shows that natural PEEK™ polymer has similar limiting oxygen index (35%) toother high performance materials.
26
Limiti
ng O
xyge
n In
dex
(%)
60
0
10
20
30
40
50
PAI PEEK™ 450G PSU Polyimide
4.3 Smoke EmissionThe current standard for the measurement of smoke produced by the combustion of plastic materials is ASTME662-95. This uses the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) smoke chamber to measure the obscuration ofvisible light by smoke generated from the combustion of a standard geometry sample in units of specific opticaldensity. The test may be carried out with either continuous ignition (flaming) or interrupted ignition (non-flaming). A comparative bar chart of the specific optical density for a range of engineering plastics is shown inFigure 23.
Figure 23 Specific Optical Density for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics Measured in Flaming Mode for3.2mm Thick Samples.
The data in Figure 23 shows that natural PEEK™ polymer has the lowest value of specific optical density of allthe materials tested.
4.4 Toxic Gas EmissionThe emission of toxic gases during combustion of a polymer cannot be considered purely as a function of thematerial. The component geometry, heat release, conditions of the fire, and the synergistic effects of any toxicgases affect the potential hazard of the material in an actual fire situation. PEEK™ polymer, like many organicmaterials, produces mainly carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide upon pyrolysis. The extremely lowconcentrations of toxic gases emitted have been evaluated using the UK Ministry Of Defence test standard MODNES 713. This procedure involves the complete combustion of a 100g sample in a 1.00m3 volume andsubsequent analysis of the toxic gases evolved. The toxicity index is defined as the summation of theconcentration of gases present normalised against the fatal human dose for a 30 minute exposure. PEEK™polymer 450G gives a superb 0.22 index with no acid gases detected.
27
Spec
ific
Opt
ical
Den
sity
(DS)
1000
0
200
400
600
800
ABS Polyester PVC PS PSU PC PTFE Phenolic PEI PEEK™450G
5.0 Electrical Properties
PEEK™ polymer is often used as an electrical insulator with outstanding thermal, physical and environmentalresistance.
5.1 Volume Resistance and ResistivityVolume resistance and resistivity values are used as aids in choosing insulating materials for specificapplications. The volume resistance of a material is defined as the ratio of the direct voltage field strengthapplied between electrodes placed on opposite faces of a specimen and the steady-state current between thoseelectrodes. Resistivity may be defined as the volume resistance normalised to a cubical unit volume.
As with all insulating materials, the change in resistivity with temperature, humidity, component geometry andtime may be significant and must be evaluated when designing for operating conditions. When a direct voltageis applied between electrodes in contact with a specimen, the current through the specimen decreasesasymptotically towards a steady-state value. The change in current versus time may be due to dielectricpolarisation and the sweep of mobile-ions to the electrodes. These effects are plotted in terms of volumeresistivity versus electrification time in Figure 24.
Figure 24 Log Volume Resistivity Versus Electrification Time for PEEK™ 450G.
The larger the volume resistivity of a material, the longer the time required to reach the steady-state current.Natural 450G PEEK™ polymer has an IEC 93 value of 6.5 x 1016 Ω cm at ambient temperatures, measuredusing a steady-state current value for 1000 s applied voltage. Using the same experimental technique, thevolume resistivity of 450G is plotted versus temperature in Figure 25. This shows that high values for the volumeresistance of natural PEEK™ polymer are retained over a wide temperature range.
28
Volu
me
Resi
stivi
ty (Ω
m)
100109
1010
1011
1012
1013
1014
1015
200 300 400 500 6000
23˚C
140˚C
200˚C
Figure 25 Log Volume Resistance Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer 450G.
5.2 Surface ResistivityThe surface resistance of a material is defined as the ratio of the voltage applied between two electrodes forminga square geometry on the surface of a specimen and the current which flows between them. The value of surfaceresistivity for a material is independent of the area over which it is measured. The units of surface resistivity arethe ohm (Ω), although it is common practice to quote values in units of ohm per square. A comparative bar chartof surface resistivities for some high performance engineering polymers at ambient temperatures is shown inFigure 26. This shows that natural PEEK™ polymer 450G has a surface resistivity typical of high performancematerials.
Figure 26 Surface Resistivities for Various Engineering Polymers Tested at 25˚C with 50% Humidity.
29
Temperature (˚C)
Volu
me
Resi
stanc
e (Ω
cm)
50 100 150 200 2501010
1011
1012
1013
1015
1014
1016
1017
1018
0
Volu
me
Resi
stivi
ty (Ω
)
2.5 x 1015
2.0 x 1015
1.5 x 1015
1.0 x 1015
0.5 x 1015
0.0PEEK™ 450 G Polyimide PTFE PET
Material
5.3 Relative Permittivity and Dielectric Dissipation FactorPEEK™ polymer can be used to form components which support and insulate electronic devices. Often thesecomponents experience alternating potential-field strengths at various frequencies over wide temperature andenvironmental changes. The material response to these changes may be evaluated using IEC 250. This standardtest evaluates the relative permittivity of a material and relates sinusoidal potential-field changes to a complexpermittivity and a dielectric dissipation factor (tan δ). The permittivity of a material (εr) is defined as the ratioof the capacitance of a capacitor in which the space between and around is filled with that material (Cx) andthe capacitance of the same electrode system in a vacuum (Cvac).
εr = Cx / Cvac
The relative permittivity in an alternating current forms the complex relationship,
εr* = εr ‘ - jεr’’
where εr‘ is the storage permittivity, j is a complex number and εr‘’ is the imaginary loss permittivity. Whensuch a potential difference is applied to a viscoelastic material the finite response time, induced by the material,means that there is a phase-lag (δ) in the measured capacitance. This phase-lag may be described by therelationship,
Cx = Co (Sin ωt + δ)
where Co is the maximum capacitance measured. Therefore, an expression for the viscoelastic phase lag (tan δ) can be derived from consideration of the storage and loss permittivities.
tan δ = εr‘’ / εr‘
Low values of tan δ are desirable for component operating conditions as this implies that the material willcontinuously insulate without excessive losses. The value of tan δ over wide temperature and frequency rangesis shown in Figures 27 and 28 respectively.
From the data reported in Figure 27, natural PEEK™ polymer has a typical loss-tangent profile compared withother high performance materials over the temperature range tested.
The comparative plot shown in Figure 28 displays the excellent electrical performance of natural PEEK™polymer over nine decades of applied frequency. Although many of the PEEK™ polymer electrical propertiesare described as typical of thermoplastic materials, PEEK™ polymers retain these excellent insulating propertiesover a wide range of temperature and frequency.
30
Figure 27 A Comparative Plot of Tan δ (60 Hz) Versus Temperature for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics.
Figure 28 A Comparative Plot of Tan δ at 23˚C Versus Frequency for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics.
31
Temperature (˚C)
Tan
δ (6
0 H
z)
10-4
10-3
10-2
10-1
40 60 80 100
PPS
PSU
PES
PEEK™450G
PC
120 140 160 180 200
Frequency (Hz)
Tan
δ
0.012
0.000
0.002
0.004
0.006
0.008
0.010
1002 1003 1004 1005 1006 1007 1008 1009 1010 1011
PPS
PSUPES
PEEK™450G
PC
6.0 Tribology
Tribology may be defined as the interaction of contacting surfaces under an applied load in relative motion. Ifthe surface of a material is viewed on a microscopic scale, a seemingly smooth finish is, in fact, a series ofasperities. Therefore, if two materials are then placed in contact and moved relative to one another, theasperities of both surfaces collide. The removal of asperities may be considered as wear, and resistance to themotion as a frictional force. PEEK™ polymer, and compounds based on PEEK™ polymer, are used to formtribological components due to their outstanding resistance to wear under high pressure (p) and high velocity(v) conditions. The friction and wear behaviour of a material may be evaluated using one of several testgeometries. The data given in this publication were generated using an AMSLER pad on ring test rig. Therotating disc used in this apparatus was 60mm in diameter with a 6mm depth and was ground to a 0.4 µm Rasurface finish.
6.1 WearThe useful lifetime of components which function in tribologically demanding environments is governed by thewear. The performance of a material may be quantified by evaluating either the specific wear rate (υsp),
υsp = V
where V represents the volumetric loss of the sample, F the force applied and D the total sliding distance, or thespecific wear factor (k),
k = dh . 1
where dh/dt represents the rate of height loss measured in the sample. The lower the wear rate or wear factor,the more resistant a material is to tribological interactions. Figure 29 shows a comparative wear factor bar chartof some of the materials commonly used in demanding tribological situations. These data show that 450FC30PEEK™ polymer compound has an extremely low wear factor for a thermoplastic material.
Figure 29 Wear Factor at 200˚C, with 183m min-1 and 20kg Load for Some of the Highest TribologicalPerformance Materials.
6.2 FrictionThe friction of a sliding tribological contact may be defined as the tangential force (F) required to move a sliderover a counterface,
F = µ N
where N represents the normal force and µ is the coefficient of friction. This relationship is commonly referredto as Amontons’ law and states the proportionality of frictional force with normal loading. However, polymericmaterials cannot be modelled by simplistic rigid body mathematics because they are viscoelastic. Values of µquoted for polymers vary with the thermal characteristics of the material and experimental conditions. Therefore,the value of µ and F may vary for PEEK™ polymer components, which experience ‘real-life’ tribological contacts.This variable force may be considered in terms of two elements: a deformation term involving the dissipation ofenergy in a local area of asperity contact, and an adhesion term originating from the contact of the slider andthe counterface.
The special tribological grade formulated by Victrex plc (450FC30), contains optimum levels of PTFE andgraphite to reduce and maintain the coefficient of friction at a low value. In addition, the carbon fibrereinforcement enhances the mechanical and thermal performance of the material. A comparative bar chart ofhigh tribological performance materials is shown in Figure 30.
Figure 30 Coefficient of Friction for a Range of Materials at 200˚C, with v = 183m min-1 and 20kg Load.
The measured variation in the value of the coefficient of friction with temperature for 450FC30 is shown inFigure 31.
Figure 31 Variation of the Coefficient of Friction with Temperature for 450FC30, v = 10m min-1 and 18.8kgLoad.
6.3 Limiting Pressure and VelocityMaterials used for tribologically sensitive applications are classified by defining the limiting product of pressurex velocity (Lpv). Limiting behaviour is taken as the pv condition under which the material exhibits excessive wear,interfacial melting or crack growth from ploughing. Materials in critical tribological interactions may undergoeither a pressure or a velocity induced failure. A pressure induced failure occurs when the loading of a sampleincreases to the point at which the sample undergoes fatigue crack growth from an asperity removal. A velocityinduced failure occurs at the point when the relative motion between surfaces is such that thermal work at thematerial interface is sufficient to catastrophically increase the wear rate. Comparative Lpv charts of materialscommonly used to form bearings are shown in Figures 32 and 33. The experimental conditions were chosen toreflect realistic bearing conditions for in-engine applications.
34
Temperature (˚C)
Coe
ffici
ent o
f Fric
tion
(µ)
0.4
0.5
0.3
0.2
0.1
0.050 100 150 200 250
Figure 32 Lpv for a Range of Bearing Materials at 20˚C, with v = 183m min-1.
The bar chart shown in Figure 33 contains fewer materials than Figure 32 because many of the bearingmaterials featured fail at temperatures below that of the second test.
Figure 33 Lpv for a Range of Bearing Materials at 200˚C, with v = 183m min-1.
* See definition of A108 in table on page 3635
LPV
(MPa
m m
in–1
)
0
200
400
600
800
1000
PEEK™ 450FC30
PA A108* VespelSP21
Polyacetal CarbonFilled PTFE
WhiteMetal
OilImpregnated
Bronze
LPV
(MPa
m m
in–1
)
0
200
400
600
800
PEEK™ 450FC30
PA A108 Vespel SP21 CY2WA GraphitePorous Bronze
Under these specific conditions, PEEK™ polymer is shown to be among the highest performance materials.However, bearings for many applications are produced in large numbers where production speed and costs arecritical. PEEK™ polymer is the only high performance tribological material which may be injection moulded toform finished components without further thermal treatment. Although Lpv values are a useful guide tocomparative tribological performance, there are no absolute values because identical experimental conditionscannot be reproduced. Comparative data for high performance tribological materials at ambient and elevatedtemperatures are shown in Table 13.
Table 13 Comparative Tribological Data with v = 183m min-1.
(a) catastrophic increase in temperature, wear or friction.
(b) Average of the coefficient of friction at Lpv and 50% Lpv.
(c) Wear rate at 50% Lpv.
(d) One time lubrication with a mineral oil.
36
Material 20˚C 200˚C
Load Lpv(a) µ(b) Wear(c) Load Lpv(a) µ(b) Wear(c)
Kg MPa rate Kg MPa ratem min-1 µm hr-1 m min-1 µm hr-1
PEEK™ polymer can be used to form components which function in aggressive environments or need towithstand frequent sterilisation processes. The useful service lifetime of such devices depends on retention of thephysical properties.
7.1 Chemical ResistancePEEK™ polymer is widely regarded as a material with superb chemical resistance. Chemical resistance can beranked as follows:
A No attack. Little or no absorption.
B Slight attack. Satisfactory use of PEEK™ polymer will depend on the application.
C Severe attack. PEEK™ polymer should not be used for any applications where these chemicals are present.
These tables are for general guidance for use with PEEK™ polymer and compounds. It has been shown that theperformance of a component can depend on factors such as residual moulding stresses and crystallinity level.Application-specific chemical resistance testing is essential for all components. Victrex can advise on the likelyeffects of chemical environments not listed in this publication.
Where no concentration is indicated against a chemical environment it can be assumed that a saturated solutionor a 100% concentration was used. The chemical compatibility of PEEK™ polymer in such environments is aworst case scenario and further test work is recommended for components which encounter diluted solutions ofthese chemicals. (-) in the data table represent conditions not yet tested by Victrex.
7.1.1 AcidsTable 14 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Acids.
37
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Acetic Acid, 10% Conc. A A
Acetic Acid, Conc. A A A
Acetic Acid, Glacial A A
Acrylic Acid A A
Aqua Regia C C C
Benzene Sulphonic Acid C
Benzoic Acid A A
Boric Acid A A
Carbolic Acid A
Carbonic Acid A A
Chloracetic Acid A A
Chlorosulfonic Acid C C C
Chromic Acid, 40% Conc. A
Chromic Acid, Conc. C C C
Citric Acid A A
Formic Acid B B
Hydrobromic Acid (100%) C C C
7.1.2 AlcoholsTable 15 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Alcohols.
38
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Hydrochloric Acid, 10% Conc. A A
Hydrochloric Acid, Conc. A B
Hydrocyanic Acid A A
Hydroflouric Acid (40%) C C
Hydroflouric Acid (70%) C C
Lactic Acid A A
Maleic Acid A A
Nitric Acid, 10% Conc. A A
Nitric Acid, 30% Conc. B
Nitric Acid, 50% Conc. C C C
Nitric Acid, Conc. C C C
Nitrous Acid, 10% A
Oleic Acid A
Oleum C C C
Oxalic Acid A A
Perchloric Acid A A
Phosphoric Acid, 10% Conc. A A A
Phosphoric Acid, 50% Conc. A A A
Phosphoric Acid, 80% Conc. A A
Phthalic Acid A A
Picric Acid A A
Silicic Acid A A
Sulphuric Acid, <40% Conc. B B B
Sulphuric Acid, >40% Conc. C C C
Sulphurous Acid A A
Tannic Acid, 10% Conc. A A
Tartaric Acid A A
Trifluromethyl Sulphonic Acid C C C
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Benzyl Alcohol A
Butanol A
Cyclohexanol A
Ethanol A A
Ethylene Glycol A A B
Ethylene Glycol, 50% Conc A A A
Glycerol A
Glycols A A
Isopropanol A
Methanol A A
Propanol A
7.1.3 Aldehydes and KetonesTable 16 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Aldehydes and Ketones.
7.1.4 BasesTable 17 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Bases.
7.1.5 EstersTable 18 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Esters.
39
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Acetaldehyde A A
Acetone A A
Benzaldehyde A
Cyclohexanone A
Formaldehyde A A
Formalin A
Methylethyl Ketone (MEK) A B C
N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Ammonia, 880 A
Ammonia, Anhydrous A A A
Ammonia, Aqueous A A A
Ammonium Hydroxide,10% Conc. A
Ammonium Hydroxide, Conc. A
Calcium Hydroxide A
Hydrazine A A
Magnesium Hydroxide A
Potassium Hydroxide, 10% Conc. A
Potassium Hydroxide, 70% Conc. A
Sodium Hydroxide, 10% Conc. A A A
Sodium Hydroxide, 50% Conc. A A A
Sodium Hydroxide, Conc. A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Aliphatic Esters A A
Amyl Acetate A A
Butyl Acetate A
Dibutyl Phthalate A
Dimethyl Phthalate A
Dioctyl Phthalate A
Ethyl Acetate A
Oils (Di-Ester and Phosphate Ester Based) A A
7.1.6 EthersTable 19 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Ethers.
7.1.7 Halogenated OrganicsTable 20 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Halogenated Organics.
* Freon is a registered trademark of DuPont.* Genklene is a registered trademark of ICI7.1.7 Halogenated Organics.
7.1.8 HydrocarbonsTable 21 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Hydrocarbons.
40
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Diethylether A A
Dioxane A
Ethylene Oxide (ETO) A
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
1,2 Dichloroethane A
Carbon Tetrachloride A A
Chlorobenzene A A
Chloroform A A
Dibromoethane A
Dichlorobenzene A
Freon* 113 (Arklone®) Tricholrotrifluoroethane A
Freon 114, 1, 1 Dichloro 1,2,2,2, Tetrafluoroethane A
Freon 12, Dichloridifluoromethane A
Freon 22, Chlorodifluoromethane A A
Freon 134a A
Freon 502 A A
Genklene*(1,1,1 Trichloroethane) A
Methylene Chloride A
Perchloroethylene A A
Trichloroethylene A A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Acetylene A A
Aromatic Solvents A A
Aviation Hydraulic Fluid A
Benzene A A
Brake Fluid (Mineral) A A A
Brake Fluid ( Polyglycol) A A A
Butane A
Crude Oil A
* Dowthern is a registered trademark of Dow Chemical.* Skydrol is a registered trademark of Monsanto.* Vaseline is a registered trademark of Dow Conoco.
7.1.9 Inorganic ReagentsTable 22 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Inorganic Reagents.
41
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Cyclohexane A A
Diesel Oil A
Dowtherm* G B
Dowtherm* HT B
Dowtherm* LF B
Ethane A
Fuel Oil A
Gas (Manufactured) A
Gas (Natural) A
Gasoline A
Heptane A
Hexane A
Hydraulic Fluid A
Iso-Octane A
Kerosene A
Lubricating Oil A
Methane (Gas) A A A
Motor Oil A A A
Naphtha A A
Naphthalene A A
Oils (Petroleum) A A
Oils (Vegetable) A A
Pentane A
Petroleum Ether A A
Propane A
Skydrol* Hydraulic Fluid A
Styrene (Liquid) A
Toluene A
Transformer Oil A A
Vaseline* A
Xylene A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Aluminum Chloride A A
Aluminum Sulphate A A
Alum, Saturated A A
Ammonium Chloride (10% Conc.) A A
Ammonium Nitrate A A
Antimony Trichloride A A
42
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Barium Salts (Chloride, Sulfide) A
Bleach A A
Brine A A
Bromine C C C
Bromine (Dry) C C C
Bromine (Wet) C C C
Bromine Water, Saturated A A
Calcium Bisulphide A A
Calcium Carbonate A
Calcium Chloride A A
Calcium Hypochlorite A A
Calcium Nitrate A
Calcium Sulphate A A
Carbon Dioxide (Dry) A
Carbon Monoxide (Gas) A A A
Chlorine (Gas-Dry) C C C
Chlorine (Gas-Wet) C C
Chlorine (Liquid) C C C
Chlorine (Wet) C C C
Copper Acetate A A
Copper Carbonate A A
Copper Chloride A A
Copper Cyanide A A
Copper Fluoride A A
Copper Nitrate A A
Copper Sulphate A A
Cupric Fluoride A A
Cupric Sulphate A A
Cuprous Chloride A A
Ethylene Nitrate A
Ferric Chloride B B
Ferric Nitrate A
Ferric Oxide A A
Ferric Sulphate A
Ferrous Chloride A
Ferrous Nitrate A
Ferrous Sulphate A
Fluorine C C C
Hydrogen Peroxide A
Hydrogen Sulphide (Gas) A A A
Iodine B
Lead Acetate A A
Lime A A
Magnesium Chloride A A
Magnesium Sulphate A A
Mercuric Chloride A A
Mercurous Chloride A
Mercury A A
43
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Nickel Acetate A A
Nickel Chloride A A
Nickel Nitrate A A
Nickel Salts A
Nickel Sulphate A A
Nitrogen A
Nitrous Oxide A
Oxygen A
Ozone A B
Phosphorous Chlorides A A
Phosphorous Pentoxide A A
Potassium Aluminium Sulphate A A
Potassium Bicarbonate A
Potassium Bromide A A
Potassium Carbonate A
Potassium Chlorate A A
Potassium Chloride A A
Potassium Dichromate A
Potassium Ferricyanide A
Potassium Ferrocyanide A
Potassium Hydroxide A A
Potassium Nitrate A A
Potassium Permanganate A
Potassium Sulphate A A
Potassium Sulphide A
Silicone Fluids A A
Silver Nitrate A A
Sodium Acetate A
Sodium Bicarbonate A
Sodium Carbonate A A
Sodium Chlorate A A
Sodium Chloride A A
Sodium Hypochlorite A A
Sodium Nitrate A A
Sodium Nitrite A
Sodium Peroxide A A
Sodium Salts A
Sodium Silicate A A
Sodium Sulphate A A
Sodium Sulphide A A
Sodium Sulphite A A
Sodium (Hot) C C C
Stannic Chloride A A
Stannous Chloride A A
Steam A A A
7.1.10 Miscellaneous ReagentsTable 23 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Miscellaneous Reagents.
44
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Sulphur A A
Sulphur Chloride A A
Sulphur Dichloride A A
Sulphur Dioxide A A A
Sulphur Hexafluoride (Gas) A
Sulphur Trioxide A A
Tar A
Tetraethyl Lead A
Water, Distilled A A
Water A A A
Water, Sea/Salt A A
Zinc Chloride A A
Zinc Sulphate A A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Adhesives (not cyanoacrylates) A
Apple Juice A
Aviation Spirit A
Beer A A
Cooking Oil A
Creosote A
Detergent Solutions (non-phenolic) A A
Edible Fats and Oils A
Fatty Acids A A
Fruit Juice A A
Gelatin A A
Ketchup A
Linseed Oil A
Milk A A
Mineral Oil A
Molasses A A
Olive Oil A A
Peanut Oil A A
Paraffin A A
Sewage A A
Soap Solution A
Starch A A
Tallow A A
Turpentine A
Urea A A
Varnish A
Vinegar A A
Wax A
White Spirit A
Wines and Spirits A
Yeast A A
7.1.11 Organo-Nitrogen CompoundsTable 24 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Organo-Nitrogen Compounds.
7.1.12 PhenolsTable 25 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Phenols.
7.1.13 Sulphur CompoundsTable 26 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Sulphur Compounds.
The information contained in these tables (and otherwise supplied to users) is based on our general experienceand is given in good faith. The performance of PEEK™ polymer in a particular chemical environment will bedependent on factors such as level of crystallinity, internal stresses and production method. Therefore,application-specific testing is recommended for all PEEK™ polymer components.
45
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Acetonitrile A
Dimethyl Formamide (DMF) A
Aniline A B
Diethylamine A
Nitrobenzene A
Pyridine A A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Phenol, Conc C C C
Phenol, Dilute A
Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C
Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) B B
Diphenylsulphone (DPS) B C C
7.2 Hydrolysis ResistancePEEK™ polymer and compounds formulated by Victrex are not chemically attacked by water or pressurisedsteam. These materials retain a high level of mechanical properties when continuously conditioned at elevatedtemperatures and pressures in steam or water. The compatibility of these materials with steam was evaluated byconditioning injection moulded tensile and flexural bars at 200˚C and 1.4MPa for the times indicatedin Table 27.
Table 27 A Comparison of the Mechanical Properties of Victrex Materials After Conditioning in Steam at 200˚Cand 1.4MPa.
The data in Table 27 demonstrates the ability of components made from PEEK™ polymer to continuously operatein, or be frequently sterilised by steam. The initial increase in the mechanical properties is due to the relaxationof moulded-in stresses and further developments in crystallinity due to thermal treatment.
46
Property Standard Control Time/Hours
75 350 1000 2000 2500
Tensile Strength / MPa ISO 527
151G (50 mm min-1) 85 86 78 84 86 -
450G (50 mm min-1) 92 99 97 97 97 97
450GL30 (5 mm min-1) 134 98 93 90 92 89
Flexural Strength / MPa ISO 178
151G 156 175 153 130 155 130
450G 142 162 165 159 169 156
450GL30 216 177 164 167 167 166
Flexural Modulus / GPa ISO 178
151G 3.8 3.8 3.1 3.1 4.0 3.7
450G 3.7 4.0 4.0 3.8 4.0 3.6
450GL30 9.8 9.1 8.3 9.0 8.9 8.7
Elongation at Break / % ISO 527
151G (50 mm min-1) 4 4 3 3 4 2
450G (50 mm min-1) 40 15 15 12 7 9
450GL30 (5 mm min-1) 3 3 3 3 3 3
7.3 Radiation ResistanceThermoplastic materials which experience electromagnetic or particle based ionising radiation can becomebrittle. Due to the energetically stable chemical structure of PEEK™ polymer, components may be constructedwhich successfully operate in, or are frequently sterilised by, high doses of ionising radiation. A comparativebar chart of thermoplastic materials is shown in Figure 34, where the recorded dose is at the point at which aslight reduction in flexural properties is observed.
Figure 34 The Oxidative Gamma Radiation Dose at which a Slight Deterioration of Flexural Properties Occurs.
The data in Figure 34 shows that the PEEK™ polymer has a greater resistance to radiation damage than theother materials tested.
47
PEEK™ 450G PS
EpoxySilicone
PolyimidePSU
PCPhenolic
FEPAcetal
PTFE
Gam
ma
Dos
e (R
ads)
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
1010
8.0 Specifications and Approvals
PEEK™ polymer and compounds are recognised or approved by the following bodies.
8.1 Aerospace/MilitaryFAR25-25853B PEEK™ 381G & 450G meet the fire, smoke and toxicity standard FAR 25-25853B for
aircraft cockpit use.
ATS 1000.001 PEEK™ 381G & 450G meet the fire, smoke and toxicity standard ATS 1000.001 foroptical density and toxicity of fumes from burning.
SP-R-0022A PEEK™ 450G meets the NASA standard SP-R-0022A for vacuum stability of polymericmaterials in spacecraft applications.
BMS 8-317A PEEK™ unfilled glass and carbon filled polymers can be supplied to Boeing specificationBMS 8-317A for use in aircraft applications.
MIL-P-46183 PEEK™ polymer and compounds can be supplied to the military specificationMIL-P-46183.
Staining Test PEEK™ 381G complies with the Boeing Aircraft staining test.
#DMSRR 1018 PEEK™ CA30 complies with the Rolls Royce standard #DMSRR 1018.
75-T-2-3007-4-1 PEEK™ CA30 meets the Deutsche Aerospace/Airbus standard 75-T-2-3007-4-1.
MS29.02.03 PEEK™ 450GL30 complies with the Sundstran Aerospace materials specification MS29.02.03.
JAR 25.853 PEEK™ 381G meets the fire, smoke and toxicity standard JAR 25.853 for flameresistance.
S26 4625 PEEK™ 381G meets the fire, smoke and toxicity standard S26 4625 for non-flamingsmoke generation.
VPRM85-10A PEEK™ 381G meets the fire, smoke and toxicity standard VPRM85-10A for peak andtotal heat release when heated.
299-947-362 All grades of PEEK™ polymer meet Bell Helicopter specification 299-947-362.
P6240 All grades of PEEK™ polymer meet General Dynamics specification P6240.
HS13534 PEEK™ 450FC30 meets Hamilton Standard (United Technologies) specification HS13534.
48
8.2 AutomotiveWSK-M 4D 838-A PEEK™ 150P & 450G comply with the Ford worldwide specification WSK-M 4D-838-A.
WSS-M 4D X1-X1 PEEK™ 150FC30 complies with the Ford worldwide specification WSS-M 4D X1-X1.
MS DB406 Rev C PEEK™ 150FC30 meets Chrysler material specification MS DB406, Rev C.
FDA Compliance21. C.F.R. 177.2415 All grades of unfilled PEEK™ polymer have been manufactured and tested to be
compliant with the requirements of FDA regulation 21. C.F.R. 177.2415 for use in foodcontact applications. Victrex plc accepts no responsibility for the compliance of the finalmaterial if other substances have been added during subsequent processing stages. Endusers and processors should note that it is the responsibility of the manufacturer of thefood contact article to assure compliance of the extractive limitations of 21 C.F.R.177.2415.
Sanitary Standard All unfilled grades of PEEK™ polymer comply with Sanitary Standard 20-19 as multiple20-19 use plastic materials for use as product contact surfaces for dairy equipment.
EEC 93/9/EEC PEEK™ 150P, 380P, 450P, 151G, 381G & 450G complies with an EEC directive93/9/EEC for plastic in contact with foodstuffs.
WRCA BS 6920 PEEK™ 450G, 450GL30, 450CA30, 450C30 meets the Water Research CouncilApproval BS 6920 Report M100216/(A-D) for non-metallics in contact with water forhuman consumption.
Flammability RatingUnderwriters PEEK™ 450G and compounds 450GL30 and 450CA30 have an UnderwritersLaboratories V-0 Laboratories V-0 rating at .057 in. (1.45 mm) thickness.
8.3 MedicalUSP Class VI PEEK-OPTIMA™ LT holds a USP Class VI rating for plastic materials.
MITI PEEK™ 450G and PEEK™ high performance compounds have received MITI approval.This approval is required by the Japanese Government for all new chemicals and plasticsto be sold in Japan. The testing includes solvent extractables and mutagenicity studies.
ISO 10093 PEEK-OPTIMA™ LT meets ISO 10093 biocompatibility testing.
ASTM F2026 00 PEEK-OPTIMA™ LT meets ASTM F2026 00 material standard for implantation use.
8.4 IndustrialWS-340, Rev. A. PEEK™ 450G meets Whitey (Swagelok Valve) material specification WS-340, Rev. A.
8.5 Wire and Cable61-12 PEEK™ polymer passes the UK defence standard 61-12 (Part 18, issue 2) as a type 2
wire. This is a standard for limited fire hazard equipment.
RME 620A PEEK™ polymer is approved to London Transport Specification RME 620A for cablecovering in railway rolling stock.
ST 808 PEEK™ polymer has been approved by French Railways Standard ST 808.
E/TSS/EX5/6053 PEEK™ polymer has been approved by the Central Electricity Generating BoardStandard E/TSS/EX5/6053, issue 3.
EDF HN 3280 PEEK™ polymer coated wires pass the French Electricity Generating Board tospecification EDF HN 3280.
49
8.6 MiscellaneousPEEK™ polymer 450G and compounds 450GL30 and 450CA30 have a V-0 rating at 1.45mm thickness.
PEEK™ polymer 450G and the high performance compounds in the Victrex grade range have received MITIapproval. This approval is required by the Japanese Government for all new chemicals and plastics to be soldin Japan. The testing includes solvent extractables and mutagenicicity studies.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed the compliance of all unfilled grades of VictrexPEEK™ polymer with its regulation (FDA regulation 21 CFR 177.2415) for repeated use in food contactapplications. Compliance with the FDA regulation includes contact with all types of food at temperatures up tothose typical for oven cooking. It is expected that the material will be specified for repeat-use applications, withno maximum contact period.
50
Disclaimer
Victrex plc believes that the information contained in this brochure is an accurate description of the typicalcharacteristics and/or uses of the product or products, but it is the customer's responsibility to thoroughly testthe product in his specific application to determine its performance, efficacy and safety for each end-usepharmaceutical product, medical device or other application. Suggestions of uses should not be taken asinducements to infringe any particular patent.
Unless Victrex plc provides the customer with a specific written warranty of fitness for a particular use,Victrex plc's sole warranty is that the product or products will meet Victrex plc's then current sales specifications.Victrex plc specifically disclaims any other express or implied warranty, including the warranties ofmerchantability and of fitness for use. Your exclusive remedy and Victrex plc's sole liability for breach ofwarranty is limited to refund of the purchase price or replacement of any product shown to be other aswarranted, and Victrex plc expressly disclaims any liability for incidental or consequential damages.
The information and data contained herein are based on information we believe reliable. Mention of a productin this documentation is not a guarantee of availability. Victrex plc reserves the right to modify products,specifications and/or packaging, as part of a continuous program of product development.
