World Headquarters

Victrex plc
Victrex Technology Centre
Hillhouse International
Thornton Cleveleys
Lancashire
FY5 4QD
UK

Tel: + (44) 1253 897700

Fax: + (44) 1253 897701
e-mail: [email protected]

North America
Victrex USA Inc.
Building III
Caledon Wood Professional Park
3 Caledon Court
Greenville
SC29615
USA

Tel: 1-800-VICTREX
Tel: +(1) 864 672 7335
Fax: +(1) 864 672 7328
e-mail: [email protected]

Europe
Victrex Europa GmbH
Hauptstrasse 11
D-65719 Hofheim
Germany

Tel: + (49) 6192 964949

Fax: + (49) 6192 964948
e-mail: [email protected]

Asia-Pacific
Victrex-MC Inc.
Hanai Building 6F
1-2-9 Shiba Koen
Minato-ku
Tokyo 105-0011
Japan
Produced by C21 Advertising & Marketing Ltd (UK) www.c-21.co.uk.

Tel: + (81) 35777 8737

Fax: + (81) 35777 8738
e-mail: [email protected]

Web-Site: www.victrex.com
PROPENG/301
P R O P E R T I E S
G U I D E
Contents
Page

1.0 Introduction 3
1.1 Sales Range 4
1.1.1 Natural PEEK™ Polymer 4
1.1.2 Fibre Reinforced Granules 4
1.1.3 Fine Powder 5
1.1.4 Tribological Compound Granules 5
1.1.5 Coloured Granules 5
1.2 Typical Properties 6
1.2.1 Natural PEEK™ Polymer 6
1.2.2 Standard Viscosity Compounds 8
1.2.3 Low Viscosity Compounds 9

2.0 Mechanical Properties 11

2.1 Tensile Properties 11
2.2 Flexural Properties 12
2.3 Creep Properties 15
2.3.1 Creep Rupture 17
2.4 Fatigue Properties 19
2.5 Impact Properties 21

3.0 Thermal Properties 24

3.1 Short Term Effects 24
3.2 Long Term Effects 24
3.2.1 Heat Ageing 25

4.0 Flammability and Combustion Properties 26

4.1 Flammability 26
4.2 Ignitability 26
4.3 Smoke Emission 27
4.4 Toxic Gas Emission 27

5.0 Electrical Properties 28

5.1 Volume Resistance and Resistivity 28
5.2 Surface Resistivity 29
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

1
 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™.

O O C

This linear aromatic polymer is semi-crystalline and is widely regarded as the highest performance thermoplastic
material currently available. A summary of key physical properties is as follows:

High Temperature Performance

PEEK™ polymer and compounds typically have a glass transition temperature of 143°C and a melting
temperature of 343°C. Independent tests have shown that PEEK™ polymer exhibits a heat distortion temperature
of up to 315°C (ISO 75 glass fibre filled) and a Continuous Use Temperature of up to 260°C (UL 746B).

Wear Resistance
PEEK™ polymer has excellent friction and wear properties which are optimised in the specially formulated
tribological grades 450FC30 and 150FC30. These materials exhibit outstanding wear resistance over wide
ranges of pressure, velocity, temperature and counterfacial roughness.

Chemical Resistance
PEEK™ polymer has excellent resistance to a wide range of chemical environments, even at elevated
temperatures. The only common solvent for PEEK™ polymer is concentrated sulphuric acid.

Fire, Smoke and Toxicity

PEEK™ polymer is highly stable and requires no flame retardant additives to achieve a V-O rating at 1.45mm
thickness. The composition and inherent purity of the material results in extremely low smoke and toxic gas
emission in fire situations.

Hydrolysis Resistance
PEEK™ polymer and compounds are not chemically attacked by water or pressurised steam. Components made
from these materials retain a high level of mechanical properties when continuously conditioned in water at
elevated temperatures and pressures.

Electrical Properties
The excellent electrical properties of PEEK™ polymer are maintained over a wide frequency and temperature
range.

Purity
PEEK™ polymer materials are inherently pure with exceptionally low levels of extractable ionic species and
outgassing.

3
 Processability
Processability is one of the most important features of PEEK™ polymer. Complex high volume components may
be directly formed using a wide range of conventional thermoplastic processing equipment. Injection moulded
items do not require any post-process thermal treatment. Therefore, truly high performance devices are readily
mass produced without the need for annealing or conventional machining.

1.1 Sales Range

PEEK™ polymer is available as natural material or Victrex formulated compounds. These high performance
materials are readily processable using a wide range of conventional thermoplastic processing equipment.

1.1.1 Natural PEEK™ Polymer

Natural PEEK™ polymer is available as powder or granules, in the following grades.

Powder
150P Low melt viscosity
380P Medium melt viscosity
450P Standard melt viscosity

Powder is generally used for extrusion compounding.

Granules
151G Low melt viscosity
381G Medium melt viscosity
450G Standard melt viscosity

Granule materials may be considered as the general purpose extrusion and injection moulding grades. The low
and medium melt viscosity materials are suitable for use in wire coating, film and monofilament production.

1.1.2 Fibre Reinforced Granules

Victrex has formulated high performance compounds which feature optimum levels of carbon and glass fibres.

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

These materials are generally used for injection moulding and extrusion operations.

4
1.1.3 Fine Powder
Victrex manufacture a fine powder grade for coating and compression moulding operations.

Powder
150PF Low melt viscosity
450PF Standard melt viscosity
150XF Ultra fine powder low viscosity

1.1.4 Tribological Compound Granules

Victrex 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.

Tribological Compound Granules

150FC30 Low melt viscosity, 10% graphite, 10% PTFE, 10% carbon fibres
450FC30 Standard melt viscosity, 10% graphite, 10% PTFE, 10% carbon fibres

These materials find applications in devices which must survive demanding tribological contacts such as thrust
washers and seals.

1.1.5 Coloured Granules

PEEK™ polymer is naturally grey coloured, the only other colour of unreinforced granule produced by Victrex
is black. It is possible to colour PEEK™ polymer using specially formulated masterbatches (See Section 6.6).

Coloured Granules
450G Black 903 Standard melt viscosity, carbon black

Most injection moulded components can be easily produced using the standard viscosity material. However, for
especially complex geometries with thin flow sections, low melt viscosity material is advised.

5
 1.2 Typical Properties
PEEK™ polymer and compounds are regarded as the highest performance materials which may be used to
directly form components using conventional thermoplastic processing technology.

1.2.1 Natural PEEK™ Polymer

Table 1 General Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.

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
Typical Crystallinity N/A % 35 35 35
Mould (Flow) N/A % 0.7 0.7 0.7
Shrinkage (90° to Flow) 1.2 1.2 1.2
Water (24 hours, 23°C) ISO 262A % 0.5 0.5 0.5
Absorption (Equilibrium, 23°C) 0.5 0.5 0.5

Table 2 Mechanical Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.

Property Test Method Units 151G 381G 450G

Tensile Strength (23°C) ISO 527 MPa 100 97 97
(Type 1B) (250°C) (50 mm min-1) 12 12 12
Tensile Elongation (Break, 23°C) ISO 527 % Upto 60 Upto 60 Upto 60
(Type 1B) (Yield 23°C) (50mm min-1) 5 5 5
Secant Modulus (23°C) ISO 527 GPa 3.5 3.5 3.6
Flexural Modulus (23°C) ISO 178 GPa 4.0 4.1 4.1
(120°C) 4.0 4.0 4.0
(250°C) 0.3 0.3 0.3
Flexural Strength (23°C) ISO 178 MPa 170 170 170
(120°C) 100 100 100
(250°C) 13 13 13
Shear Strength (Ultimate, 23°C) ASTM D3846 MPa 53 53 53
Shear Modulus (23°C) ASTM D3846 GPa - 1.3 1.3
Compressive (Flow, 23°C) ASTM D695 MPa - 118 118
Strength (90°C to Flow, 23°C) - 119 119
Poisson's Ratio (23°C) ASTM D638 N/A 0.4 0.4 0.4
Rockwell (R Scale) ASTM D785 N/A 126 126 126
Hardness (M Scale) 99 99 99
Charpy Impact (2mm Notch, 23°C) ISO 179 KJm-2 - 35 35
Strength (0.25mm Notch, 23°C) - 8.2 8.2
Izod Impact (0.25mm Notch, 23°C) ISO 180 KJm-2 6.1 7.5 6.4
Strength (Unnotched, 23°C) No break No break No break

6
Table 3 Thermal Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.

Property Test Method Units 151G 381G 450G

Melting Point (Peak of Endotherm) DSC °C 343 340 340
Glass Transition Temperature DSC °C 143 143 143
Specific Heat Capacity DSC KJ kg-1 °C-1 - - 1.34
Coefficient of (<Tg) ASTM D696 10-5 °C-1 4.7 4.7 4.7
Thermal Expansion (>Tg) 10.8 10.8 10.8
Heat Distortion Temperature ISO 75 °C 156 152 152
Thermal Conductivity ASTM C177 W m °C
-1 -1
0.25 0.25 0.25
Continuous Use Temperature UL 746B °C Upto 260 Upto 260 Upto 260

Table 4 Fire, Smoke and Toxicity Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.

Property Test Method Units 151G* 381G* 450G

Flammability Rating UL 94 N/A V-0 V-0 V-0
(1.45mm thickness)
Limiting Oxygen (0.4mm thickness) ISO 4589 % O2 - - 24
Index (3.2mm thickness) - - 35
Specific Optical Density (Ds) ASTM E662
3.2mm thick (flaming) N/A 19 19 19
sample (non flaming) N/A 2 2 2
1.6mm thick (flaming) N/A 50 50 50
sample (non flaming) N/A 5 5 5
90% Ds
3.2mm thick (flaming) min 18 18 18
sample (non flaming) min 20 20 20
Ds value at 4 minutes
3.2mm thick (flaming) N/A 1 1 1
sample (non flaming) N/A 0 0 0
Toxicity Index CO NES 713 N/A 0.074 0.074 0.074
CO2 0.15 0.15 0.15
Total Gases 0.22 0.22 0.22

Table 5 Electrical Properties of Natural PEEK™ Polymer.

Property Test Method Units 151G* 381G* 450G

Dielectric Strength (50µm Film) IEC 243 KVmm -1
190 190 190
Comparative Tracking Index (23°C) IEC 112 V 150 150 150
Loss Tangent (23°C, 1 MHz) IEC 112 N/A 0.003 0.003 0.003
Relative (50 Hz, 0-150°C) IEC 250 N/A 3.2 3.2 3.2
Permittivity (50 Hz, 200°C) N/A 4.5 4.5 4.5
Volume Resistivity IEC 93 1016 Ω cm 4.9 4.9 4.9

* Estimated data

7
 1.2.2 Standard Viscosity Compounds
Table 6 General Properties of Standard Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 450GL30 450CA30 450FC30

Colour N/A N/A Grey Black Black
Density (Crystalline) ISO 1183 g cm-3 1.49 1.44 1.48
Typical Crystallinity N/A % 30 30 30
Mould (Flow) N/A % 0.2 0.03 0.3
Shrinkage (90° to Flow) 1.1 0.3 0.9
Water Absorption (24 hours, 23°C) ISO 262A % 0.11 0.06 0.06

Table 7 Mechanical Properties of Standard Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 450GL30 450CA30 450FC30

Tensile Strength (23°C) ISO 527 MPa 156 224 141
(Type 1B) (250°C) (5mm min-1) 34 43 25
Tensile Elongation (Break, 23°C) ISO 527 % 2.7 2.0 2.5
(Type 1B) (5mm min-1)
Secant Modulus (23°C) ISO 527 GPa 9.7 22.33 -
Flexural Modulus (23°C) ISO 178 GPa 10 20.2 8.1
(120°C) 9.2 18.6 8.0
(250°C) 3.0 5.1 3.0
Flexural Strength (23°C) ISO 178 MPa 250 355 210
(120°C) 175 260 135
(250°C) 70 105 36
Shear Strength (Ultimate, 23°C) ASTM D3846 MPa 97 97 -
Shear Modulus (23°C) ASTM D3846 GPa 2.4 - -
Compressive (Flow, 23°C) ASTM D695 MPa 215 240 150
Strength (90° to Flow, 23°C) 149 153 -
Poisson's Ratio (23°C) ASTM D638 N/A 0.45 - -
Rockwell (R Scale) ASTM D785 N/A 124 124 -
Hardness (M Scale) 103 107 -
Charpy Impact (2mm Notch, 23°C) ISO 179 KJ m-2 11.3 7.8 -
Strength (0.25mm Notch, 23°C) 8.9 5.4 -
Izod Impact (0.25mm Notch, 23°C) ISO 180 KJ m-2 10.0 9.0 6.3
Strength (Unnotched, 23°C) 40.3 41.4 27.5

Table 8 Thermal Properties of Standard Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 450GL30 450CA30 450FC30

Melting Point (Peak of Endotherm) DSC °C 340 340 340
Glass Transition Temperature DSC °C 143 143 143
Coefficient of (<Tg) ASTM D696 10 °C-5 -1
2.2 1.5 2.2
Thermal Expansion
Heat Distortion Temperature ISO 75 °C 315 315 >293
Thermal Conductivity ASTM C177 W m °C -1 -1
0.43 0.92 0.24

8
Table 9 Fire, Smoke and Toxicity Properties of Standard Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 450GL30 450CA30 450FC30

Flammability Rating UL 94 N/A V-0 V-0 V-0
(1.45mm thickness)
Limiting Oxygen Index ISO 4589
(0.4mm thickness) % O2 - - 43
(3.2mm thickness) - - -
Specific Optical Density (Ds) ASTM E662
3.2mm thick (flaming) N/A - 5 3
sample (non flaming) N/A - 2 -
90% Ds
3.2mm thick (flaming) min - 19 -
Ds value at 4 minutes
3.2mm thick (flaming) N/A - 0 -
sample (non flaming) N/A - 0 -
Toxicity Index CO NES 713 N/A - 0.05 -
CO2 N/A - 0.12 -
Total Gases N/A - 0.17 -

1.2.3 Low Viscosity Compounds

Table 10 General Properties of Low Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 150GL30 150CA30 150FC30

Colour N/A N/A Grey Black Black
Density (Crystalline) ISO 1183 g cm-3 1.49 1.44 1.48
Typical Crystallinity N/A % 30 30 30
Mould (Flow) N/A % - - 0.3
Shrinkage (90° to Flow) - - 0.9
Water Absorption (24 hours, 23°C) ISO 262A % 0.11 0.06 -

Table 11 Mechanical Properties of Low Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 150GL30 150CA30 150FC30

Tensile Strength (23°C) ISO 527 MPa 178 225 140
(Type 1B) (250°C) (5mm min-1) 35 43 25
Flexural Modulus (23°C) ISO 178 GPa 9.7 19.2 9.1
(120°C) 9.4 18.6 8.0
(250°C) 2.6 5.1 3.0
Izod Impact (0.25mm Notch, 23°C) ISO 180 KJ m-2 9.1 6.0 -
Strength (Unnotched, 23°C) 46.2 36.1 -

9
 Table 12 Thermal Properties of Low Viscosity PEEK™ Polymer Compounds.

Property Test Method Units 150GL30 150CA30 150FC30

Melting Point (Peak of Endotherm) DSC °C 343 343 343
Glass Transition Temperature DSC °C 143 143 143
Coefficient of (<Tg) ASTM D696 10 °C-5 -1
2.2 1.5 -
Thermal Expansion
Heat Distortion Temperature ISO 75 °C >300 >300 >293
Thermal Conductivity ASTM C177 W m °C -1 -1
0.43 0.92 0.24
Continuous Use Temperature UL 746B °C Upto 260 Upto 260 Upto 260

Victrex believe that the fire, smoke, toxicity and electrical properties of the low viscosity compounds are similar
to those of the standard viscosity materials. The information contained in this publication (and otherwise
supplied to users) is based on our general experience and is given in good faith. The data supplied within this
publication is subject to the errors associated with the testing standards followed. Application-specific test work
is recommended for all PEEK™ polymer components.

10
2.0 Mechanical Properties
PEEK™ polymer is widely regarded as the highest performance material processable using conventional
thermoplastic processing equipment.

2.1 Tensile Properties

The tensile properties of PEEK™ polymer exceed those of most engineering thermoplastics. A comparative
tensile plot of PEEK™ polymer materials is shown in Figure 2, where stress is defined as the applied force
divided by the original cross-sectional area and the strain as the extension per unit length of the sample.

300

250
450CA30

200
Stress (MPa)

450GL30
150

450FC30
100 450G

50

0
0.0 0.05 0.10 0.15 0.20 0.25 0.30 0.35
Strain

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 tensile
modulus. Due to the viscoelastic nature of PEEK™ polymer, a range of values for tensile properties may be
obtained by testing at different strain rates or temperatures. Therefore, evaluations of the tensile parameters
contained in the data tables were conducted in accordance with the ISO 527 testing standard with strain rates
set at either 5 or 50mm min-1.

PEEK™ polymer is used to form structural components which experience or continually operate at high
temperatures. Figure 3 shows a plot of tensile strength versus temperature for PEEK™ polymer materials and
demonstrates a high retention of mechanical properties over a wide temperature range.

11
 300
450CA30

250
450GL30
Tensile Strength (MPa)

200
450FC30

150 450G

100

50

0
-100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Temperature (˚C)

Figure 3 Tensile Strength Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.

2.2 Flexural Properties

PEEK™ polymer and the high-performance compounds based on PEEK™ polymer exhibit outstanding flexural
performance over a wide temperature range. Due to the viscoelasticity of these materials, evaluations were
performed using a defined strain rate three point bending test (standards ISO 178 and ASTM D790) with the
results plotted versus temperature in Figures 4 and 5.

400

450CA30
350

300 450GL30
Flexural Strength (MPa)

450FC30
250
450G
200

150

100

50

0
-100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Temperature (˚C)

Figure 4 Flexural Strength Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer Materials.

12
 25
450CA30

20
Flexural Modulus (GPa)

15

450GL30
10
450FC30

5 450G

0
-150 -100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Temperature (˚C)

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, and
flexural 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 can
be used as a structural material. However, flexural strength measurements made above 200˚C are subject to
error as the yield point of these materials is at greater than the 5% strain specified in the test standard. Above
this value, a linear stress to strain relationship cannot be assumed for the calculation of flexural properties.

13
 2.3 Creep Properties
Creep 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 sustain
large stresses over a useful service lifetime without significant time induced extension. Figures 6 and 7 display
the creep behaviour of PEEK™ polymer 450G with respect to applied stress, time and temperature.

2.0

50MPa
1.5
Tensile Strain (%)

40MPa
1.0
30MPa

0.5 20MPa

10MPa

0
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

Figure 6 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G at 23˚C.

2.0

1.5
Tensile Strain (%)

1.0 5MPa

4MPa

3MPa
0.5
2MPa

1MPa

0
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

Figure 7 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G at 150˚C.

14
The magnitude of stress, time and temperature required to induce accurately measurable (> 0.5%) strains is
exceptionally large for an unfilled polymer. Values of creep modulus (Es) may be calculated from such data and
used as a measure of resistance to creep deformation. The creep moduli for some of the high performance
compounds from the PEEK™ polymer grade range are plotted against time in Figure 8.

20
450CA30 at 0.2% strain & 23˚C

15 450CA30 at 0.2% strain & 150˚C

Modulus (GPa)

450GL30 at 0.1% strain & 23˚C

10

450GL30 at 0.1% strain & 150˚C

5
450G at 0.1% strain & 23˚C

450G at 0.1% strain & 150˚C

0
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

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 of
PEEK™ polymer and that the carbon fibre based compounds (CA30) are the highest performance materials
tested.

If analogous plots to Figures 6 and 7 are constructed for 450CA30 (Figures 9 and 10), the time dependent
strain behaviour over experimentally practicable lifetimes may be evaluated. From the data shown in Figure 9
it is clear that there is little measurable creep at ambient temperatures even for the highest values of stress (50
MPa) applied to the 450CA30 samples.

At elevated temperatures (Figure 10), under the same applied stresses, small but measurable time dependent
strains are observed. Although the creep resistance of natural PEEK™ polymer is outstanding for an unfilled
material, 450CA30 can be used to make structural components which will withstand continual loading over a
wide temperature range.

15
 1.0

0.8
Tensile Strain (%)

0.6

0.4
50MPa

40MPa
0.2 30MPa

20MPa

0
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

Figure 9 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Compound 450CA30 at 23˚C.

1.0

0.8
Tensile Strain (%)

0.6

0.4

40MPa
0.2
30MPa

20MPa
0
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

Figure 10 Tensile Strain Versus Time for PEEK™ Polymer Compound 450CA30 at 150˚C.

16
2.3.1 Creep Rupture
The performance of thermoplastic materials under a constant applied stress may also be considered in terms of
creep rupture. Creep rupture indicates the maximum loading a material will sustain for a given period before it
fails, where failure is defined as brittle or necking deformation. Figure 11 shows tensile creep rupture data
versus time for natural and reinforced PEEK™ polymer materials.

120

100

450G
80
Tensile Stress (MPa)

450GL30
60

40

20

0
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

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-scale
tested. Therefore, experiments were performed at elevated temperatures (Figure 12).

17
 90

80
0˚
70

90˚
60
Tensile Stress (MPa)

450CA30
0˚
50

40 90˚
450GL30
30
0˚ & 90˚ 450G
20

10

0
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Time (sec)

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 angles
indicate the direction of testing with respect to melt flow. 450CA30 exhibits superior creep rupture performance
over the other materials tested and to most high performance thermoplastics. Therefore, 450CA30 materials are
often used to form components which experience permanent loading at high temperatures.

18
2.4 Fatigue Properties
Fatigue may be defined as the reduction in mechanical properties during continued cyclic loading. In these
experiments a tensile sample is stressed to a pre-defined limit and released to zero tension repeatedly at a given
frequency using a square waveform. After a certain number of cycles, samples undergo either brittle failure or
plastic deformation. The failure mechanism is often dependent on the extent of localised heating that occurs
within 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 performance
compounds in the Victrex grade range can withstand under fatigue stress at ambient temperatures.

110

105

100

95
Tensile Stress (MPa)

90

85

80 450CA30

75 450GL30

70
450G
65

60
00 01 02 03 04 05 06
10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Cycles to Failure

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 glass
and carbon fibre reinforcement. Independent studies have shown that these compounds feature the optimum
level 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 the
mechanical properties of the matrix. Figure 14 compares the fatigue performance of PEEK™ polymer with other
engineering thermoplastics containing the same amount and type of glass fibres.

19
 35

30
PEEK™ Polymer 450G
Tensile Stress (MPa)

25 Polyetherimide

Polyethersulphone
20

15
02 03 04 05 06 07 08
10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Cycles to Failure

Figure 14 Fatigue Stress Versus Cycles to Failure for Various High Performance Engineering Thermoplastic
Matrices Containing the Same Reinforcement*.

*Figure taken from Shi-Shen Yau, Tsu-Wei Chou, SAMPE Quarterly, April 1985.

20
2.5 Impact Properties
Impact testing may be classified according to the energy imparted to the impactor prior to contact with the
material. Low energy studies are performed using a pendulum geometry, whereas higher energy failures are
evaluated using falling weight apparatus. The impact properties of a material are strongly dependent on test
geometry (notch radius and position), temperature, impact speed and the condition of the sample (surface
defects). Therefore, in an attempt to unify these variables, measurements are often made in accordance with one
of the testing standards.

The impact strength of PEEK™ polymer and some of the high performance compounds in the Victrex grade
range were evaluated using the Charpy test protocol (ISO 179, 0.25mm notch radius) and are shown at various
temperatures in Figure 15.

No Break

14 450G
450GL30
450CA30
12
Charpy Impact Strength (KJ m–2)

10

0
-65 -20 23 100 250
Temperature ˚C

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 at
sub-ambient temperatures. All PEEK™ polymer samples tested above 100˚C could not be broken using the
forces and pendulum distances specified in the test standard.

Comparative studies of the impact strengths of some high performance materials are shown in Figures 16 and
17 (ASTM D256).

21
 1200

unbroken
1000
Izod Impact Strength (J m–1)

800

600

400

200

0
PEEK™ PEEK™ PEEK™ PAI + PPS + Polyimide
450G 450GL30 450CA30 30% Glass 40% Glass

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 grade
range and other high performance compounds. Natural 450G PEEK™ polymer has the highest unnotched
impact strength and remains unbroken under the Izod test conditions.

120

100
Izod Impact Strength (J m–1)

80

60

40

20

0
PAI 30% PEEK™ PEEK™ PEEK™ Polyimide PPS +
Glass 450GL30 450CA30 450G 40% Glass

Figure 17 Notched Izod Impact Strength at 23˚C for Various High Performance Materials.

22
Figure 17 shows the effects on the impact strength of notching various materials. The geometry of the notch has
been shown to be critical to the measured impact strength. Therefore, in component design, moulded notches
or acute angles should be avoided.

Instrumented falling weight techniques are used to evaluate higher energy impacts by monitoring the forces and
displacements required to destructively test a sample.

90

80

70

60
Failure Energy (J)

50

40

30
450G

20
450GL30

10
450CA30
0
-100 0 100 200 300
Temperature (˚C)

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
 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 Effects

The short term thermal performance of a material may be characterised by determining the Heat Distortion
Temperature (HDT, ISO 75). This involves measuring the temperature at which a defined deformation is observed
in a sample under constant applied stress. A comparative chart of high performance materials using ISO 75
HDT values (Figure 19) for a defined applied stress of 1.82MPa shows that PEEK™ polymer 450G compounds
are superior to the other materials tested.

300

250
Temperature (˚C)

200

150

100
PEEK™ PEEK™ PAI + 30% PPS + Polyimide PES PEEK™
450CA30 450GL30 Glass 30% Glass 450G

Figure 19 Heat Distortion Temperature for a Range of High Performance Materials.

3.2 Long Term Effects

Polymeric materials are subject to chemical modification (often oxidation) at elevated temperatures. These effects
may be evaluated by measuring the Continuous Use Temperature (CUT) otherwise known as the Relative Thermal
Index (RTI) as defined by Underwriters Laboratories (UL 746B). This test determines the temperature at which
50% of material properties are retained after a conditioning period of 100,000 hours. The UL RTI rating for
natural PEEK™ polymer and the high performance materials in the Victrex grade range are charted against
other engineering materials in Figure 20.

The bar chart in Figure 20 shows that PEEK™ polymer materials may only be matched in thermal performance
by certain polyimides. However, these polyimides are only available as rod-stock or finished product, which
often precludes their use on a production cost or component design basis.

24
 250
Temperature (˚C)

200

150

100
PEEK™ PEEK™ PEEK™ Polyimide PAI PPS + 40% PES PSU
450G 450GL30 450CA30 + Glass Glass

Figure 20 Relative Thermal Index (RTI) for a Range of High Performance Materials.

3.2.1 Heat Ageing

As part of the Underwriters Laboratory evaluation of the physical performance of polymeric materials with
respect to temperature, heat ageing experiments are performed. This involves exposing test bars to a constant
temperature over a pre-defined time and subsequently measuring the change in tensile properties. The retention
of these properties is calculated with respect to a control and is used as a measure of the thermal ageing
performance. The outstanding percentage retention of tensile strength and elongation to break for natural
PEEK™ polymer is plotted versus conditioning time in Figure 21.

120
Tensile Strength at 310˚C Elongation at 200˚C
Tensile Strength at 200˚C Elongation at 310˚C
100
Retention of Property (%)

80

60

40

20

0
0 20 150 500 1500 3500 10000
Hours exposure

Figure 21 Tensile Strength and Elongation to Break Versus Heat Ageing Time for PEEK™ Polymer 450G as
Determined by Underwriters Laboratory.

25
 4.0 Flammability and Combustion Properties
In a fire, the thermal and chemical environment is changing constantly. Therefore, it is difficult to simulate the
conditions 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 and
requires no flame retardant additives to achieve low flammability and ignitability values. The composition and
inherent purity of PEEK™ polymer results in excellent smoke and toxicity performance.

4.1 Flammability
The flammability of a material may be defined as the ability to sustain a flame upon ignition from a high energy
source in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen. The recognised standard for the measurement of flammability is
the Underwriters Laboratory test UL94. This involves the ignition of a vertical specimen of defined geometry and
measures the time for the material to self-extinguish. The average time from a repeated ignition sequence is used
to classify the material. Natural 450G PEEK™ polymer has been rated as V-0 (1.45mm thickness) which is the
best possible rating for flame retardancy.

4.2 Ignitability
The ignitability of a material may be considered in terms of the minimum concentration of oxygen which will
just sustain a flame ignited from a high energy source (ASTM D2863-95). A comparative bar chart of the
limiting oxygen indices for a range of engineering polymers is shown in Figure 22.

60

50
Limiting Oxygen Index (%)

40

30

20

10

0
PAI PEEK™ 450G PSU Polyimide

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%) to
other high performance materials.

26
4.3 Smoke Emission
The current standard for the measurement of smoke produced by the combustion of plastic materials is ASTM
E662-95. This uses the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) smoke chamber to measure the obscuration of
visible light by smoke generated from the combustion of a standard geometry sample in units of specific optical
density. 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 in
Figure 23.

1000

800
Specific Optical Density (DS)

600

400

200

0
ABS Polyester PVC PS PSU PC PTFE Phenolic PEI PEEK™
450G

Figure 23 Specific Optical Density for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics Measured in Flaming Mode for
3.2mm Thick Samples.

The data in Figure 23 shows that natural PEEK™ polymer has the lowest value of specific optical density of all
the materials tested.

4.4 Toxic Gas Emission

The emission of toxic gases during combustion of a polymer cannot be considered purely as a function of the
material. The component geometry, heat release, conditions of the fire, and the synergistic effects of any toxic
gases affect the potential hazard of the material in an actual fire situation. PEEK™ polymer, like many organic
materials, produces mainly carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide upon pyrolysis. The extremely low
concentrations of toxic gases emitted have been evaluated using the UK Ministry Of Defence test standard MOD
NES 713. This procedure involves the complete combustion of a 100g sample in a 1.00m3 volume and
subsequent analysis of the toxic gases evolved. The toxicity index is defined as the summation of the
concentration 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
 5.0 Electrical Properties
PEEK™ polymer is often used as an electrical insulator with outstanding thermal, physical and environmental
resistance.

5.1 Volume Resistance and Resistivity

Volume resistance and resistivity values are used as aids in choosing insulating materials for specific
applications. The volume resistance of a material is defined as the ratio of the direct voltage field strength
applied between electrodes placed on opposite faces of a specimen and the steady-state current between those
electrodes. 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 and
time may be significant and must be evaluated when designing for operating conditions. When a direct voltage
is applied between electrodes in contact with a specimen, the current through the specimen decreases
asymptotically towards a steady-state value. The change in current versus time may be due to dielectric
polarisation and the sweep of mobile-ions to the electrodes. These effects are plotted in terms of volume
resistivity versus electrification time in Figure 24.

15
10
23˚C
14
10

140˚C
Volume Resistivity (Ωm)

13
10

12
10

11
10

10
10 200˚C

9
10
0 100 200 300 400 500 600

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, measured
using a steady-state current value for 1000 s applied voltage. Using the same experimental technique, the
volume resistivity of 450G is plotted versus temperature in Figure 25. This shows that high values for the volume
resistance of natural PEEK™ polymer are retained over a wide temperature range.

28
 18
10

17
10

16
10
Volume Resistance (Ωcm)

15
10

14
10

13
10

12
10

11
10

10
10
0 50 100 150 200 250
Temperature (˚C)

Figure 25 Log Volume Resistance Versus Temperature for PEEK™ Polymer 450G.

5.2 Surface Resistivity

The surface resistance of a material is defined as the ratio of the voltage applied between two electrodes forming
a square geometry on the surface of a specimen and the current which flows between them. The value of surface
resistivity for a material is independent of the area over which it is measured. The units of surface resistivity are
the ohm (Ω), although it is common practice to quote values in units of ohm per square. A comparative bar chart
of surface resistivities for some high performance engineering polymers at ambient temperatures is shown in
Figure 26. This shows that natural PEEK™ polymer 450G has a surface resistivity typical of high performance
materials.
15
2.5 x 10

15
2.0 x 10
Volume Resistivity (Ω)

15
1.5 x 10

15
1.0 x 10

15
0.5 x 10

0.0
PEEK™ 450 G Polyimide PTFE PET
Material

Figure 26 Surface Resistivities for Various Engineering Polymers Tested at 25˚C with 50% Humidity.

29
 5.3 Relative Permittivity and Dielectric Dissipation Factor
PEEK™ polymer can be used to form components which support and insulate electronic devices. Often these
components experience alternating potential-field strengths at various frequencies over wide temperature and
environmental changes. The material response to these changes may be evaluated using IEC 250. This standard
test evaluates the relative permittivity of a material and relates sinusoidal potential-field changes to a complex
permittivity and a dielectric dissipation factor (tan δ). The permittivity of a material (εr) is defined as the ratio
of the capacitance of a capacitor in which the space between and around is filled with that material (Cx) and
the 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. When
such 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 the
relationship,

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 will
continuously insulate without excessive losses. The value of tan δ over wide temperature and frequency ranges
is shown in Figures 27 and 28 respectively.

From the data reported in Figure 27, natural PEEK™ polymer has a typical loss-tangent profile compared with
other 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 properties
are described as typical of thermoplastic materials, PEEK™ polymers retain these excellent insulating properties
over a wide range of temperature and frequency.

30
 -1
10

PEEK™
450G
-2
10
PC
Tan δ (60 Hz)

PPS
PES

-3
10

PSU

-4
10
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Temperature (˚C)

Figure 27 A Comparative Plot of Tan δ (60 Hz) Versus Temperature for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics.

0.012

0.010

0.008
PC
Tan δ

0.006

PEEK™
0.004 450G

PES
PSU
0.002
PPS

0.000
02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Frequency (Hz)

Figure 28 A Comparative Plot of Tan δ at 23˚C Versus Frequency for a Range of Engineering Thermoplastics.

31
 6.0 Tribology
Tribology may be defined as the interaction of contacting surfaces under an applied load in relative motion. If
the surface of a material is viewed on a microscopic scale, a seemingly smooth finish is, in fact, a series of
asperities. Therefore, if two materials are then placed in contact and moved relative to one another, the
asperities of both surfaces collide. The removal of asperities may be considered as wear, and resistance to the
motion as a frictional force. PEEK™ polymer, and compounds based on PEEK™ polymer, are used to form
tribological 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 test
geometries. The data given in this publication were generated using an AMSLER pad on ring test rig. The
rotating disc used in this apparatus was 60mm in diameter with a 6mm depth and was ground to a 0.4 µm Ra
surface finish.

6.1 Wear
The useful lifetime of components which function in tribologically demanding environments is governed by the
wear. The performance of a material may be quantified by evaluating either the specific wear rate (υsp),

υsp = V

F.D
where V represents the volumetric loss of the sample, F the force applied and D the total sliding distance, or the
specific wear factor (k),

k = dh . 1

dt p.v
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 chart
of some of the materials commonly used in demanding tribological situations. These data show that 450FC30
PEEK™ polymer compound has an extremely low wear factor for a thermoplastic material.

1.0
Wear Factor 10–6 / MPa hr. m min–1

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0
Graphited Porous Bronze CY2WA* PEEK™ 450FC30 Vespel** SP21

Figure 29 Wear Factor at 200˚C, with 183m min-1 and 20kg Load for Some of the Highest Tribological
Performance Materials.

* Resin impregnated carbon

**Vespel is a registered trademark of DuPont

32
6.2 Friction
The friction of a sliding tribological contact may be defined as the tangential force (F) required to move a slider
over a counterface,

F=µN

where N represents the normal force and µ is the coefficient of friction. This relationship is commonly referred
to as Amontons’ law and states the proportionality of frictional force with normal loading. However, polymeric
materials cannot be modelled by simplistic rigid body mathematics because they are viscoelastic. Values of µ
quoted 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 of
energy in a local area of asperity contact, and an adhesion term originating from the contact of the slider and
the counterface.

The special tribological grade formulated by Victrex plc (450FC30), contains optimum levels of PTFE and
graphite to reduce and maintain the coefficient of friction at a low value. In addition, the carbon fibre
reinforcement enhances the mechanical and thermal performance of the material. A comparative bar chart of
high tribological performance materials is shown in Figure 30.

0.5

0.4
Coefficient of Friction (µ)

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
Graphite Porous Bronze CY2WA* PEEK™ 450FC30 Vespel** SP21

Figure 30 Coefficient of Friction for a Range of Materials at 200˚C, with v = 183m min-1 and 20kg Load.

33
 The measured variation in the value of the coefficient of friction with temperature for 450FC30 is shown in
Figure 31.

0.5

0.4
Coefficient of Friction (µ)

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0
50 100 150 200 250
Temperature (˚C)

Figure 31 Variation of the Coefficient of Friction with Temperature for 450FC30, v = 10m min-1 and 18.8kg
Load.

6.3 Limiting Pressure and Velocity

Materials used for tribologically sensitive applications are classified by defining the limiting product of pressure
x 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 undergo
either a pressure or a velocity induced failure. A pressure induced failure occurs when the loading of a sample
increases to the point at which the sample undergoes fatigue crack growth from an asperity removal. A velocity
induced failure occurs at the point when the relative motion between surfaces is such that thermal work at the
material interface is sufficient to catastrophically increase the wear rate. Comparative Lpv charts of materials
commonly used to form bearings are shown in Figures 32 and 33. The experimental conditions were chosen to
reflect realistic bearing conditions for in-engine applications.

34
 1000

800
LPV (MPa m min–1)

600

400

200

0
PEEK™ PA A108* Vespel Polyacetal Carbon White Oil
450FC30 SP21 Filled PTFE Metal Impregnated
Bronze
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 bearing
materials featured fail at temperatures below that of the second test.

800

600
LPV (MPa m min–1)

400

200

0
PEEK™ PA A108 Vespel SP21 CY2WA Graphite
450FC30 Porous Bronze

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 36

35
 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 are
critical. PEEK™ polymer is the only high performance tribological material which may be injection moulded to
form finished components without further thermal treatment. Although Lpv values are a useful guide to
comparative tribological performance, there are no absolute values because identical experimental conditions
cannot be reproduced. Comparative data for high performance tribological materials at ambient and elevated
temperatures are shown in Table 13.

Table 13 Comparative Tribological Data with v = 183m min-1.

Material 20˚C 200˚C

Load Lpv(a) µ(b) Wear(c) Load Lpv(a) µ(b) Wear(c)
Kg MPa rate Kg MPa rate
m min-1 µm hr-1 m min-1 µm hr-1
450FC30 40 794 0.17 190 40 622 0.14 132
450G 8 145 0.58 450 8 147 0.51 150
450CA30 22 376 0.28 225 13 445 0.25 -
PA A108
(Nylon 6.6, Graphite, 10 71 0.76 - - - - -
Glass Fibre)
Vespel SP21
(Polyimide, Graphite) 30 895 0.24 50 20 670 0.21 125
Polyacetal 5 71 0.34 - - - - -
CY2WA
(Resin Impregnated Carbon) 40 1,023 0.18 26 25 746 0.26 75
Carbon Filled PTFE 25 447 0.25 250 - - - -
White Metal(d) 15 265 0.16 - - - - -
Oil Impregnated Bronze(d) 25 804 0.09 210 - - - -
Graphite Porous Bronze (d)
- - - - 20 403 0.25 75

(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
7.0 Environmental Resistance
PEEK™ polymer can be used to form components which function in aggressive environments or need to
withstand frequent sterilisation processes. The useful service lifetime of such devices depends on retention of the
physical properties.

7.1 Chemical Resistance

PEEK™ polymer is widely regarded as a material with superb chemical resistance. Chemical resistance can be
ranked 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 the
performance 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 likely
effects of chemical environments not listed in this publication.

Where no concentration is indicated against a chemical environment it can be assumed that a saturated solution
or a 100% concentration was used. The chemical compatibility of PEEK™ polymer in such environments is a
worst case scenario and further test work is recommended for components which encounter diluted solutions of
these chemicals. (-) in the data table represent conditions not yet tested by Victrex.

7.1.1 Acids
Table 14 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Acids.

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

37
 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

7.1.2 Alcohols
Table 15 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Alcohols.

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
38
7.1.3 Aldehydes and Ketones
Table 16 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Aldehydes and Ketones.

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

7.1.4 Bases
Table 17 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Bases.

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

7.1.5 Esters
Table 18 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Esters.

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

39
 7.1.6 Ethers
Table 19 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Ethers.

Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C

Diethylether A A
Dioxane A
Ethylene Oxide (ETO) A
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) A

7.1.7 Halogenated Organics

Table 20 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Halogenated Organics.

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

* Freon is a registered trademark of DuPont.

* Genklene is a registered trademark of ICI7.1.7 Halogenated Organics.

7.1.8 Hydrocarbons
Table 21 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Hydrocarbons.

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

40
 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

* 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 Reagents

Table 22 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Inorganic Reagents.

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
41
 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
42 Mercury A A
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 43
 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

7.1.10 Miscellaneous Reagents

Table 23 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Miscellaneous Reagents.
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
44 Yeast A A
7.1.11 Organo-Nitrogen Compounds
Table 24 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Organo-Nitrogen Compounds.

Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C

Acetonitrile A
Dimethyl Formamide (DMF) A
Aniline A B
Diethylamine A
Nitrobenzene A
Pyridine A A

7.1.12 Phenols
Table 25 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Phenols.

Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C

Phenol, Conc C C C
Phenol, Dilute A

7.1.13 Sulphur Compounds

Table 26 The Chemical Resistance of PEEK™ Polymer to a Range of Sulphur Compounds.

Chemical 23°C 100°C 200°C

Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) B B
Diphenylsulphone (DPS) B C C

The information contained in these tables (and otherwise supplied to users) is based on our general experience
and is given in good faith. The performance of PEEK™ polymer in a particular chemical environment will be
dependent on factors such as level of crystallinity, internal stresses and production method. Therefore,
application-specific testing is recommended for all PEEK™ polymer components.

45
 7.2 Hydrolysis Resistance
PEEK™ polymer and compounds formulated by Victrex are not chemically attacked by water or pressurised
steam. These materials retain a high level of mechanical properties when continuously conditioned at elevated
temperatures and pressures in steam or water. The compatibility of these materials with steam was evaluated by
conditioning injection moulded tensile and flexural bars at 200˚C and 1.4MPa for the times indicated
in Table 27.

Table 27 A Comparison of the Mechanical Properties of Victrex Materials After Conditioning in Steam at 200˚C
and 1.4MPa.

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

The data in Table 27 demonstrates the ability of components made from PEEK™ polymer to continuously operate
in, or be frequently sterilised by steam. The initial increase in the mechanical properties is due to the relaxation
of moulded-in stresses and further developments in crystallinity due to thermal treatment.

46
7.3 Radiation Resistance
Thermoplastic materials which experience electromagnetic or particle based ionising radiation can become
brittle. Due to the energetically stable chemical structure of PEEK™ polymer, components may be constructed
which successfully operate in, or are frequently sterilised by, high doses of ionising radiation. A comparative
bar chart of thermoplastic materials is shown in Figure 34, where the recorded dose is at the point at which a
slight reduction in flexural properties is observed.

10
10

9
10

8
10
Gamma Dose (Rads)

7
10

6
10

5
10

4
10

3
10
PEEK™ Epoxy Polyimide PC FEP PTFE
450G PS Silicone PSU Phenolic Acetal

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 the
other materials tested.

47
 8.0 Specifications and Approvals
PEEK™ polymer and compounds are recognised or approved by the following bodies.

8.1 Aerospace/Military
FAR25-25853B 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 for
optical density and toxicity of fumes from burning.

SP-R-0022A PEEK™ 450G meets the NASA standard SP-R-0022A for vacuum stability of polymeric
materials in spacecraft applications.

BMS 8-317A PEEK™ unfilled glass and carbon filled polymers can be supplied to Boeing specification
BMS 8-317A for use in aircraft applications.

MIL-P-46183 PEEK™ polymer and compounds can be supplied to the military specification
MIL-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 flame
resistance.

S26 4625 PEEK™ 381G meets the fire, smoke and toxicity standard S26 4625 for non-flaming
smoke generation.

VPRM85-10A PEEK™ 381G meets the fire, smoke and toxicity standard VPRM85-10A for peak and
total 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 Automotive
WSK-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 Compliance
21. 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 food
contact applications. Victrex plc accepts no responsibility for the compliance of the final
material if other substances have been added during subsequent processing stages. End
users and processors should note that it is the responsibility of the manufacturer of the
food 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 multiple
20-19 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 directive
93/9/EEC for plastic in contact with foodstuffs.

WRCA BS 6920 PEEK™ 450G, 450GL30, 450CA30, 450C30 meets the Water Research Council
Approval BS 6920 Report M100216/(A-D) for non-metallics in contact with water for
human consumption.

Flammability Rating
Underwriters PEEK™ 450G and compounds 450GL30 and 450CA30 have an Underwriters
Laboratories V-0 Laboratories V-0 rating at .057 in. (1.45 mm) thickness.

8.3 Medical
USP 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 plastics
to 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 Industrial
WS-340, Rev. A. PEEK™ 450G meets Whitey (Swagelok Valve) material specification WS-340, Rev. A.

8.5 Wire and Cable

61-12 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 cable
covering 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 Board
Standard E/TSS/EX5/6053, issue 3.

EDF HN 3280 PEEK™ polymer coated wires pass the French Electricity Generating Board to
specification EDF HN 3280.

49
 8.6 Miscellaneous
PEEK™ 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 MITI
approval. This approval is required by the Japanese Government for all new chemicals and plastics to be sold
in 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 Victrex
PEEK™ polymer with its regulation (FDA regulation 21 CFR 177.2415) for repeated use in food contact
applications. Compliance with the FDA regulation includes contact with all types of food at temperatures up to
those typical for oven cooking. It is expected that the material will be specified for repeat-use applications, with
no maximum contact period.

50
Disclaimer
Victrex plc believes that the information contained in this brochure is an accurate description of the typical
characteristics and/or uses of the product or products, but it is the customer's responsibility to thoroughly test
the product in his specific application to determine its performance, efficacy and safety for each end-use
pharmaceutical product, medical device or other application. Suggestions of uses should not be taken as
inducements 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 of
merchantability and of fitness for use. Your exclusive remedy and Victrex plc's sole liability for breach of
warranty is limited to refund of the purchase price or replacement of any product shown to be other as
warranted, 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 product
in 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.