Ultra-low surface energy of only 30 mN/m! PEEK – the ideal anti-sticking material for high-viscosity substances!

When it comes to anti-adhesive materials, PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is well-known for its extremely low surface energy (approximately 18 mN/m), which prevents most substances from adhering and delivers outstanding anti-sticking performance.

Thanks to this property, PTFE is widely adopted in the processing of high-viscosity materials such as hot melt adhesives and syrups, effectively avoiding material adhesion and ensuring smooth production.

Anti-Sticking Performance of PTFE

However, PTFE has limitations under certain special working conditions. Its soft molecular chains lead to relatively low structural stability, making it prone to cold flow and deformation at high temperatures.

In addition, the PTFE surface is vulnerable to friction and scratches, which will weaken its original anti-sticking effect and even form residue buildup points. These drawbacks restrict its long-term service in high-temperature and high-friction environments.

The Superior Anti-Sticking Solution for High-Viscosity Materials

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone) is another high-performance engineering plastic with a surface energy of around 30 mN/m. Though slightly higher than that of PTFE, it still provides remarkable anti-sticking capacity.

More importantly, PEEK boasts exceptional thermal stability. It can retain its shape and mechanical strength at temperatures up to 300°C, paired with outstanding wear resistance and deformation resistance. Even under heavy friction and frequent cleaning, the PEEK surface stays smooth, resisting aging and material residue buildup.

Application Fields of PEEK

Benefiting from its outstanding comprehensive properties, PEEK has been widely used across various industries, gradually replacing PTFE in many special scenarios. Typical applications of PEEK include:

· High-temperature molds: Keep mold cavities clean and reduce reliance on release agents

· Food & pharmaceutical production lines: Enable continuous oil-free and contamination-free operation

· Semiconductor fixtures and inspection jigs: Maintain precision and surface cleanliness under high temperatures

· Chemical systems: Resist corrosion, abrasion and scaling

PEEK Back-Up Retaining Rings for Food & Beverage Industry

Anti-Sticking Performance Goes Beyond Smoothness

To sum up, PTFE fits anti-sticking scenarios with low temperature and low friction, yet it suffers obvious drawbacks under high-temperature and high-friction conditions.

In contrast, PEEK features superior thermal stability, wear resistance and anti-adhesive properties, making it a more ideal material. Its advantages stand out especially in working conditions requiring long-term stable and efficient operation.