Polyetherimide: An Overview

Polyetherimide (PEI) is a high-performance, amber-colored thermoplastic known for its excellent mechanical strength, high thermal stability, and inherent flame resistance. As a member of the polyimide family, polyetherimide is an amorphous polymer that combines the toughness of polycarbonate with the thermal and chemical resistance of traditional engineering plastics. It is widely used in demanding applications across industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, electrical, and electronics due to its outstanding performance characteristics.

One of the most notable features of PEI is its exceptional heat resistance. It can withstand continuous use temperatures without losing its structural integrity, making it suitable for environments that involve prolonged exposure to heat. Its high glass transition temperature ensures that it maintains rigidity and dimensional stability even under thermal stress. This makes PEI an ideal material for components in engines, heat exchangers, and electrical insulation systems.

PEI also demonstrates excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, rigidity, and impact resistance. These properties remain consistent over a wide temperature range, which is critical for applications where dimensional stability and load-bearing performance are required. It is commonly used for structural parts, gears, brackets, and housings in various mechanical systems.