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What is the recommended storage condition for empty PET straight bottles to avoid yellowing or brittleness?

By admin / Date Apr 07,2025

It is crucial to store PET straight bottles in a controlled, cool, and dry environment. The temperature should be kept stable to avoid fluctuations that could stress the material. Ideally, the storage temperature should fall within a range of 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). Exposure to high temperatures can cause the PET to undergo thermal degradation, leading to discoloration (yellowing) and a reduction in mechanical properties, such as flexibility and strength. Excessive heat accelerates oxidation processes that break down the polymer structure, making it more susceptible to cracking and brittleness.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from direct sunlight is a major factor in the degradation of PET materials. Over time, UV exposure can cause the polymer chains in the PET to break down, resulting in yellowing or discoloration. UV light can also weaken the structure of the material, making it more prone to brittleness and cracking. Therefore, it is essential to store PET bottles in a location that is shielded from direct sunlight. In cases where exposure to UV light is unavoidable, using UV-resistant covers or packaging, such as opaque shrink wrap or corrugated boxes, can significantly reduce the risk of degradation.

The optimal temperature range for storing PET straight bottles is between 10°C and 30°C (50°F and 86°F). This temperature range minimizes the risk of material degradation. Extreme cold can make the PET brittle, while high temperatures can soften or deform the bottle. Storing the bottles outside this range increases the likelihood of plastic becoming more susceptible to impact damage, stress cracking, and loss of clarity. Therefore, it’s important to maintain temperature control in storage facilities, especially in environments with varying seasonal conditions.

Excessive humidity can have detrimental effects on PET material, especially when it is stored in a high-moisture environment. PET can absorb moisture from the air, which can result in a temporary reduction in strength, clarity, and the overall integrity of the bottles. When PET bottles are exposed to moisture, they may become more prone to warping or deforming. For optimal storage, it is important to ensure that the relative humidity is kept low, below 60%. Using desiccants or climate-controlled storage systems can help maintain the ideal humidity levels.

While storing PET bottles in stacks is often more space-efficient, excessive weight or compression from heavy stacking can distort the shape of the bottles, leading to permanent deformations. Deformation, such as the development of dents, bulges, or warping, can weaken the structural integrity of the bottles and make them more prone to cracking. To avoid this, bottles should be stored in a manner that prevents heavy stacking. If stacking is necessary, ensure that the bottles are arranged in a way that evenly distributes the weight and prevents pressure points from developing. Palletizing the bottles in a well-organized manner also helps to minimize unnecessary compression.

Storing PET bottles in their original packaging or in properly designed protective containers ensures that the bottles are shielded from dust, dirt, and external contaminants. It also helps to reduce the risk of mechanical damage, such as scratches or punctures, which could affect the appearance and performance of the bottles. Pallets and storage racks designed to hold PET bottles securely without overcrowding or excessive pressure are also a good practice. Packaging materials such as shrink-wrap or plastic covers can provide additional protection against environmental factors, such as moisture or particulate contamination, and can also prevent physical damage during transport or handling.