Polyaryletherketone (PAEK): Ultra-High Performance Polymers for Extreme Environments
Polyaryletherketones (PAEKs) represent a family of ultra-high performance thermoplastic polymers distinguished by the presence of aromatic rings linked by ether and ketone functional groups in their polymer backbone. This unique chemical structure imparts an exceptional combination of properties, making PAEKs suitable for the most demanding applications where other materials fail. They are often considered the pinnacle of engineering plastics, offering superior performance at elevated temperatures and in aggressive environments.
The most prominent member of the PAEK family is Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), followed by Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), and Polyetherketone (PEK). Key characteristics of PAEKs include outstanding thermal stability (with continuous use temperatures often exceeding 250°C), excellent mechanical strength and stiffness (even at high temperatures), superior chemical resistance to a broad range of solvents and corrosive fluids, excellent wear and abrasion resistance, and inherent flame retardancy with low smoke emission. They also exhibit good fatigue resistance and are often biocompatible.
VIEW FULL REPORT AT…