Sustainability is no longer a marketing afterthought—it’s a core requirement in packaging and industrial supply chains. Among flexible packaging materials, post consumer recycled polyester films (PCR PET/BOPET) are gaining traction as a way to cut virgin resin usage while maintaining performance. For engineers, converters, and buyers searching for polyester near me, understanding the specifications, benefits, and practical considerations of PCR polyester is essential.
At Pilcher Hamilton Corporation (PHC), we convert, slit, and sheet polyester films—including PCR options—at scale, supporting packaging, industrial, and graphic applications across North America.
Key Takeaways
- PCR polyester films reduce virgin plastic demand while meeting performance standards.
- Gauges range from 12–100µm with mechanical and barrier properties comparable to virgin PET.
- Suitable for laminations, labels, industrial insulation, and packaging films.
- PCR levels vary (typically 30–70%), offering flexibility for regulatory and brand goals.
- PHC provides technical datasheets, slitting, and converting services for PCR PET.
PCR Polyester Explained
Post consumer recycled polyester films are produced by reclaiming PET waste (bottles, trays, packaging films), reprocessing it into pellets, and extruding new BOPET film.
Properties Compared to Virgin Polyester
- Optical clarity: Slight haze may occur at higher PCR content.
- Tensile strength: Maintains 200–250 MPa in machine direction.
- Barrier performance: OTR ~60–80 cc/m²·day; WVTR ~3–6 g/m²·day (at 23°C, 0% RH).
- Thermal stability: Melting point ~250°C, suitable for laminations and sealing.
Learn more in PHC’s film specifications and technical datasheets.
Environmental Benefits of PCR Polyester
- Reduced carbon footprint: Life cycle analysis shows up to 60% CO₂ reduction versus virgin PET.
- Circular economy: Keeps PET out of landfills and reintroduces it into high-value uses.
- Regulatory compliance: Meets many state and brand mandates requiring PCR content in packaging.
- Consumer appeal: Brands highlight PCR use as part of sustainability commitments.
Properties and Specifications
| Property | Virgin PET | PCR PET (30–50%) | PCR PET (50–70%) |
| Optical Clarity | Excellent | Very good, slight haze | Noticeable haze |
| Tensile Strength (MD) | 220–250 MPa | 210–240 MPa | 200–230 MPa |
| OTR (23°C, 0% RH) | 65 cc/m²·day | 70 cc/m²·day | 75–80 cc/m²·day |
| WVTR | 3 g/m²·day | 3–4 g/m²·day | 4–6 g/m²·day |
| Recyclability | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Buyer’s Checklist:
- Confirm PCR content % to align with sustainability targets.
- Ensure dyne levels ≥40 for printing/lamination.
- Specify gauge (12–100µm) based on end use.
- Verify COF range (0.35–0.55) for packaging lines.
- Request barrier data (OTR, WVTR) from datasheets.
Applications in Green Packaging
- Food packaging laminates – PET/PE structures with PCR content.
- Labels & graphics – PCR polyester for pressure-sensitive labels.
- Industrial films – Electrical insulation and release liners.
- Sustainable pouches – Mono-material laminations with recyclable sealing layers.
See PHC’s polyester packaging film applications and sustainability-first PET film solutions.
The Future of Recycled Polyester Films
- Higher PCR content adoption: 70–100% PCR grades are emerging for non-food applications.
- Enhanced barrier coatings: Acrylic and chemical coatings help maintain clarity and barrier.
- Integration with BON laminates: Combining PCR PET with BON creates high-performance recyclable laminations.
- OEM mandates: Expect automotive and electronics sectors to mandate PCR usage in insulation and graphics.
FAQ
Q1. Are PCR polyester films as strong as virgin PET?
Yes, most mechanical properties are comparable, though high PCR percentages can reduce clarity slightly.
Q2. What PCR levels are available?
Standard offerings are 30%, 50%, and 70% PCR content, depending on application and supply chain.
Q3. Can PCR PET films be laminated or coated?
Yes, PHC supplies corona treated and coated PCR films for printing, laminations, and sealing.
Q4. How do I know if I can source polyester near me with PCR content?
PHC ships nationwide from South Carolina, ensuring fast access to PCR polyester film stock across the USA.
Q5. What industries are adopting PCR PET fastest?
Food packaging, consumer goods labels, and industrial converters are leading adoption.
Call to Action
Looking to integrate post consumer recycled polyester films into your packaging or industrial application? PHC supplies custom gauges, PCR content levels, and converting services to meet technical and sustainability needs. Engineers and buyers searching for polyester near me can count on PHC for fast lead times, deep expertise, and a nationwide footprint.
📍 Learn more on our all products and all services pages, or reach out through our contact page.
Pilcher Hamilton Corporation
850 South Buncombe Road
Greer – South carolina🔗 Contact PHC | View Locations