PET surface during precision laser cleaning process removing contamination layer
Yi-Chun Lin
Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials Processing
Published
Jan 6, 2026

PET Laser Cleaning

PET exhibits non-porous and smooth characteristics, so laser cleaning removes contaminants effectively from surfaces without damaging underlying structure.

Laser Material Interaction

Material-specific laser energy interaction properties and cleaning behavior

Thermal Destruction

523
K
0
523
1,046

Laser Absorption

0.48
0
0.48
0.96

Laser Damage Threshold

0.62
J/cm²
0
0.62
1.24

Ablation Threshold

0.025
J/cm²
0
0.025
0.05

Thermal Diffusivity

1.2e-7
m²/s
0
1.2e-7
2.4e-7

Thermal Expansion

7e-5
K^{-1}
0
7e-5
0

Specific Heat

1,170
J/(kg·K)
0
1,170
2,340

Thermal Conductivity

0.24
W/m·K
0
0.24
0.48

Laser Reflectivity

0.042
fraction
0
0.042
0.084

Material Characteristics

Physical and mechanical properties

Density

1.38
g/cm³
0
1.38
2.76

Surface Roughness

0.8
μm
0
0.8
1.6

Tensile Strength

55
MPa
0
55
110

Youngs Modulus

2.8
GPa
0
2.8
5.6

Hardness

0.09
GPa
0
0.09
0.18

Flexural Strength

85
MPa
0
85
170

Oxidation Resistance

2.2
μm/year
0
2.2
4.4

Corrosion Resistance

0.9
mm/year
0
0.9
1.8

Compressive Strength

55
MPa
0
55
110

Fracture Toughness

4
MPa m^{1/2}
0
4
8

Electrical Resistivity

1e16
Ω·m
0
1e16
2e16

PET 500-1000x surface magnification

Microscopic surface analysis and contamination details

Before Treatment

When you examine the contaminated PET surface up close, you spot irregular patches of grime and tiny debris scattered everywhere. Dust particles cling tightly to the uneven texture, making the whole area look dull and cluttered. This buildup hides the material's natural smoothness beneath layers of residue.

After Treatment

After laser treatment, you notice the PET surface turns remarkably even and clear overall. The grime vanishes completely, leaving behind a polished finish without any visible spots. Now the texture appears uniform and bright, ready for practical

Regulatory Standards

Safety and compliance standards applicable to laser cleaning of this material

Industry Applications

Industries and sectors where this material is commonly used

  • Packaging

  • Beverage Industry

  • Food Processing

  • Textiles

  • Consumer Goods

  • Recycling

  • Manufacturing

  • Medical Packaging

FAQs for laser cleaning PET

Common questions and expert answers about laser cleaning this material
Why does PET sometimes warp during laser cleaning?
I've seen PET warp more easily than metals because it softens at lower temperatures. This happens when the laser heat builds up quickly on its smooth surface, unlike tougher materials that handle it better. To avoid this, keep the laser moving steadily and use shorter pulses so the material stays intact without deforming.
How do I prepare PET surfaces for effective laser cleaning?
When cleaning PET, start by removing loose dirt first to let the laser focus on the real contaminants. This works best because PET's non-porous nature means contaminants stick tight, and prepping helps the laser remove them cleanly without residue. I've found wiping with a mild solvent beforehand makes the process faster and leaves a spotless finish every time.
What's the best speed for laser cleaning PET to avoid damage?
Tending to go slow with PET helps control the heat so it cleans without burning the edges. Compared to denser plastics, PET's flexibility means it

Common Contaminants

Types of contamination typically found on this material that require laser cleaning
Adhesive Residue / Tape Marks
Chemical Stains / Acid Etching
Industrial Oil / Grease Buildup
Paint Residue / Coating Failure

PET Dataset

Download PET properties, specifications, and parameters in machine-readable formats
32
Variables
0
Laser Parameters
0
Material Methods
11
Properties
3
Standards
3
Formats
View all Plastic datasets

License: Creative Commons BY 4.0 • Free to use with attribution •Learn more

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