Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) serves as a semi-crystalline engineering thermoplastic known for its dimensional stability, low moisture absorption, electrical properties, and ease of processing. The following sections compare PBT with common engineering plastics: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (nylon, such as PA66/PA6), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polypropylene (PP).
These comparisons focus on mechanical performance, thermal characteristics, moisture absorption, chemical resistance, and typical applications. For a detailed overview of PBT material grades and their specific modifications, refer to the related article: PBT Material Grades: Types and Key Differences.
PBT vs PET (Both in the Polyester Family, Closest Comparison)
Similarities include comparable chemical structures, offering mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation.
Key differences: PBT crystallizes faster and processes more easily with a melting point around 225°C, lower than PET's 260°C. PBT provides better impact toughness and a lower glass transition temperature (30-60°C versus PET's 70-80°C). PBT also exhibits lower moisture absorption and superior dimensional stability, along with slightly better hot water resistance. PET, however, offers higher strength, rigidity, and heat deflection temperature.
Applications: PBT appears in electrical connectors and automotive components; PET suits fibers, bottles, or high-wear parts.
PBT vs PA (Nylon, Such as PA66/PA6)
Key differences: PBT features very low moisture absorption (<0.1%), ensuring excellent dimensional stability, while PA absorbs up to 2-8%, leading to performance variations. PA delivers higher tensile strength and toughness, with better wear resistance, especially in dry conditions; PBT excels in chemical resistance (particularly to oils), electrical performance, and rigidity. PBT withstands continuous temperatures of 120-140°C, whereas PA66 handles 150-200°C. PBT shows uniform shrinkage during processing, reducing warpage, unlike PA, which is affected by moisture.
Applications: PBT fits precision electrical and electronic parts; PA applies to high-load mechanical components like gears and bearings.
PBT vs PC (Polycarbonate)
Key differences: PC provides exceptional impact toughness and transparency; PBT offers moderate toughness but superior chemical resistance to oils and solvents. PBT processes more readily and costs less; PC resists higher continuous temperatures (130-150°C). PBT maintains strong electrical properties with low warpage; PC is prone to stress cracking.
Applications: PBT serves automotive housings and connectors; PC works in safety glazing and headlamps.
PBT vs ABS
Key differences: PBT surpasses ABS in heat resistance, chemical stability, and dimensional accuracy; ABS excels in impact toughness at low temperatures, with good processability and lower cost. PBT provides better electrical insulation and aging resistance.
Applications: ABS fits consumer product housings; PBT targets demanding engineering components.
PBT vs PP (Polypropylene)
Key differences: PBT exceeds PP in strength, rigidity, and heat resistance; PP has the lowest density and cost, with good chemical resistance. PBT suits moderate to high-temperature environments; PP applies to low-temperature or disposable items.
Applications: PP appears in packaging and tubing; PBT integrates into automotive and electrical precision parts.
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(Typical Unreinforced Values, Reference Ranges Influenced by Brand and Additives)
| Property | PBT | PET | PA66 | PC | ABS | PP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.3-1.4 | 1.3-1.4 | 1.1-1.15 | 1.2 | 1.0-1.1 | 0.9 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 50-60 | 60-80 | 80-90 | 60-70 | 40-50 | 30-40 |
| Impact Toughness | Medium-Good | Medium | Excellent | Outstanding | Good | Medium |
| Continuous Heat (°C) | 120-140 | 100-150 | 150-200 | 130-150 | 80-100 | 100-120 |
| Moisture Absorption (%) | <0.1 | 0.1-0.2 | 2-3 | <0.2 | <0.3 | <0.01 |
| Processability | Excellent | Good | Medium | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cost | Medium | Medium | Medium | High | Low | Lowest |
Key Takeaway
PBT stands out for its balanced properties, particularly in electrical and automotive sectors requiring low moisture uptake and high precision. For specific brand data, such as BASF Ultradur or DuPont Crastin, additional details can be explored upon request.