PET preform and uses
A **plastic PET preform** is a small, test-tube-shaped piece of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) that serves as the **intermediate product** in manufacturing PET bottles and containers.
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Step 1: PET preform
It is made through an **injection molding process**, where molten PET resin is injected into a mold to form the preform. Later, in a **blow molding process**, the preform is reheated and stretched into its final shape — such as bottles for water, soft drinks, edible oil, cosmetics, and household products.
### **Key Features of PET Preforms**
* **Lightweight & strong** – offers high strength-to-weight ratio.
* **Transparent** – provides clear visibility of contents.
* **Barrier properties** – protects against moisture and gases.
* **Recyclable** – PET can be reused to make new bottles or other products.
* **Customizable** – can be made in different neck types, weights, and colors.
### **Common Uses Nowadays**
1. **Beverage Packaging**
* Water bottles
* Carbonated soft drink bottles
* Juice and energy drink bottles
2. **Food Packaging**
* Edible oil bottles
* Sauces and condiments bottles
* Honey jars
3. **Personal Care & Cosmetics**
* Shampoo & conditioner bottles
* Lotion and cream containers
* Perfume bottles
4. **Household & Industrial Packaging**
* Detergent bottles
* Cleaning product bottles
* Chemical storage containers
5. **Emerging Uses**
* **Pharmaceutical bottles** (syrup, tablet containers)
* **Hot-fill packaging** for juices and teas
* **Recycled PET (rPET)** for sustainable packaging solutions
