Is Polyetherimide the Same as Ultem? A Clarification
In the world of high-performance thermoplastics, terminology and brand names can sometimes lead to confusion. One such instance is the conflation of the terms “polyetherimide” and “Ultem.” This article aims to provide clarity on this topic, explaining the relationship between “polyetherimide” and “Ultem,” and ensuring that industry professionals that we all have a clear understanding of the terms.
Polyetherimide (PEI): An Overview
Polyetherimide, commonly abbreviated as PEI, is a high-performance amorphous thermoplastic known for its impressive balance of mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Derived from the polymerization of an aromatic dianhydride and an aromatic diamine, PEI boasts a range of characteristics that make it a preferred choice for various demanding applications.
Some of the hallmark properties of PEI include:
- Temperature Resistance: PEI can consistently operate at temperatures up to 170°C (340°F), showcasing its resilience against thermal degradation.
- Mechanical Strength: Even at elevated temperatures, PEI maintains a commendable tensile strength and rigidity, making it suitable for applications that require durability and stability.
- Chemical Resistance: PEI stands up well against a myriad of chemicals, including certain automotive fluids, alcohols, and aqueous solutions, to name a few.
- Flame Resistance: Inherently flame retardant, PEI often meets the stringent requirements of UL94 V-0 classifications without the necessity for additional additives.
Given these attributes, it’s no surprise that PEI finds its way into a plethora of industries, from aerospace and automotive to electronics and medical sectors.
Ultem: The Brand Behind the Name
Ultem is a registered trademark of SABIC, a global leader in chemical manufacturing. Under the Ultem brand, SABIC produces and markets its line of PEI resins. In essence, Ultem is SABIC’s commercial name for its PEI products.
It’s akin to how adhesive bandages are often referred to by the brand name “Band-Aid,” even though “Band-Aid” is a specific brand among many producers of adhesive bandages. Similarly, while all Ultem resins are PEI, not all PEI resins on the market are Ultem.
The Conflation and Its Implications
The conflation of PEI with Ultem can be attributed to several factors:
- Market Presence: SABIC’s Ultem has established a significant presence in the market, leading many to use the brand name interchangeably with the generic term.
- Industry Vernacular: Over time, dominant brands can influence industry jargon. As professionals discuss materials, the brand name can inadvertently become synonymous with the generic term, leading to the blurring of lines between the two.
While using “Ultem” to refer to PEI might seem harmless, it’s important to recognize the distinction and cut down on confusion, even if “Ultem” sounds a lot cooler than “PEI” or “polyetherimide.”
Conclusion
In summary, while polyetherimide is the generic name for the high-performance thermoplastic, Ultem is a specific brand of PEI produced by SABIC. While the two terms are closely related, they are not synonymous.