How to glue Polyetherimide (PEI Plastic)

Polyetherimide (PEI) is an amorphous thermoplastic based on repeated aromatic imide and ether units, known for its high strength and stiffness, especially during prolonged heat exposure. The rigid aromatic imide units give PEI its high-performance properties at elevated temperatures, while the ether linkages provide chain flexibility necessary for melt flow and processability.

PEI is suitable for extreme service environments and has mechanical properties at room temperature that exceed most thermoplastics, retaining these properties at high temperatures. Its excellent impact strength and elongation at break make PEI ideal for various industries.

PEI is widely used in electronics for components such as connectors, chip carriers, and printed circuit boards, where its good electrical insulation properties and heat resistance are crucial. In applications, PEI is used for fittings and instrument components due to its ability to withstand repeated sterilization and chemical exposure.

PEI (Polyetherimide) is broadly used in industry due to its excellent properties. In electronics, PEI is used for connectors, chip carriers, and printed circuit boards because of its good electrical insulation and heat resistance. It is popular for fittings in applications. PEI is also used for other applications such as computer disks, electrical tapes, flexible circuits, and explosion-proof electrical enclosures, where its versatility and strength make it suitable for demanding environments.
PEI is also used for PEI SpiderSheet, a type of build plate used in 3D printing.

PEI typically has a surface tension in the range of 36 to 50 dyn/cm.
PEI, known commercially as Ultem, is also available on the market.

Gluing with PEI Adhesive

Clean and prepare the surfaces carefully by removing any oil, dirt, or contaminants. Use a suitable non-residue cleaner.

Choose an adhesive formulated to bond PEI plastic.

• Epoxy adhesives can be used to bond PEI (Polyetherimide). Epoxy adhesives are generally well suited for bonding various plastics including PEI because of their ability to chemically bond with plastic surfaces and form a strong, adherent connection.
• Polyurethane adhesives generally have good compatibility with PEI. This means the adhesive can bond effectively to PEI surfaces, creating reliable, strong, and durable joints, as polyurethane adhesives are fully or partially flexible.
• Cyanoacrylate (super glue) can also be a good option. The adhesive has a long open time and cures in seconds, which can make production lines efficient.
• Silicone adhesives are also an option. These do not provide the highest strength but offer flexibility and higher temperature resistance than epoxy adhesives.

For example, if you need to bond something to a PEI SpiderSheet for 3D printing, it is important to use an adhesive compatible with the PEI material to ensure a reliable bond.

Allow the PEI adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

After curing, a test should be performed to ensure the adhesive has achieved the desired strength and bonding quality on the PEI material.

Manufacturers

PEI is marketed under the trade name Ultem by GE Plastics, which produces various formulations and special versions of the material for different industrial needs.

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