PET Release Film Safety Overview

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) release films are generally considered safe for their intended industrial and commercial applications. However, safety depends on specific use cases, additives/coatings, and environmental conditions. Below is a concise breakdown:

1. Material Safety of PET

• Non-toxic Base Material: PET is chemically inert under normal conditions and widely used in food packaging (e.g., water bottles) with FDA and EU food-contact approvals.

• No Harmful Leaching: At room temperature, PET does not release toxic chemicals like BPA or phthalates (unlike PVC or polycarbonate).

2. Key Safety Considerations

a) Additives & Coatings

Most release films include a silicone coating (or other release agents) to enable easy peeling. Safety depends on:

• Coating Compliance: Silicones are generally safe, but ensure coatings meet regulations (e.g., FDA 21 CFR or EU 10/2011 for food contact).

• Specialized Applications: For medical/electronic uses, verify biocompatibility (ISO 10993) or flame-retardant additives (e.g., halogen-free certifications).

b) Temperature Resistance

• Safe Range: PET films typically withstand -60°C to 150°C.

• High-Temperature Risks: Above 200°C, PET may degrade, releasing trace acetaldehyde or other volatiles. Avoid direct flame or prolonged high heat.

c) Food & Medical Use

• Direct Food Contact: Only use PET films explicitly certified as food-grade (e.g., FDA-compliant with migration testing).

• Medical Devices: Requires USP Class VI or ISO 10993 testing for biocompatibility.

3. Environmental & Handling Safety

• Recycling: PET is recyclable, but silicone coatings may complicate recycling. Check local guidelines.

• Disposal: Incineration at low temps may release CO₂ and water (non-toxic), but incomplete combustion generates particulates.

• Workplace Safety: Cutting/processing PET films may produce microplastics—use proper ventilation and PPE.

4. Regulatory Certifications

Always verify compliance with relevant standards:

• Food Safety: FDA 21 CFR, EU 10/2011, GB 4806.7-2016 (China).

• Industrial Safety: REACH, RoHS (restricted hazardous substances).

• Medical: ISO 10993, USP Class VI.

Conclusion

PET release film is safe for most applications (e.g., labels, protective films, electronics) when used as intended. For critical uses like food packaging, medical devices, or high-heat environments:

1. Confirm compliance with industry-specific certifications.

2. Avoid extreme temperatures.

3. Prioritize films labeled "food-grade" or "medical-grade" if applicable.