🧩 PBT+R – Recycled Polybutylene Terephthalate
(An eco-friendly and economical material obtained by recycling PBT technical parts. PBT+R retains most of the properties of virgin PBT, offering rigidity, chemical, and thermal resistance for secondary automotive parts.)
🔹 What is PBT+R
PBT+R is a recycled material (post-industrial or post-consumer) obtained by grinding, filtering, and re-granulating technical PBT waste or PBT blends. Modern reconditioning processes restore most original properties, making the material suitable for mid-level structural and aesthetic applications. Compared to virgin PBT, it offers lower cost and reduced environmental impact with similar welding behavior.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Base: 80–100 % Recycled PBT.
- Density: 1.30–1.45 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: ≈ 220 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (similar to standard PBT).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 100–130 °C.
🚗 Where PBT+R is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Secondary Parts | Sensor covers, small housings | Cost economy, good rigidity |
| Technical Interior | Guides, frames | Matte finish, dimensionally stable |
| Electrical Systems | Connectors, relay covers | Good electrical insulation |
| Engine Bay | Structural brackets, clips | Decent thermal resistance |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 250 – 270 °C | Stable behavior, uniform melting |
| Plastic Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Ideal for thick or previously repaired parts |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 240 – 260 °C | Clean bonding, zero warping |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: PBT, PBT+GF, PBT+PC, PBT+PET, PBT+ASA, PBT+BIO.
- ⚠️ Good Compatibility: PC+PBT, POM+PBT, PA+PBT.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PVC, ABS (completely different melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Use virgin PBT rods at 260 °C for a clean and strong weld. If the part shows micropores or oxidized areas, clean and mill the surface slightly before bonding.
🧠 How to Identify PBT+R
- Engraved marking: >PBT+R<, >VALOX R<, >ULTRADUR R<, >ECO<.
- Texture: Matte, rigid, with slight visible inclusions or color irregularities.
- ReplastMD practical test: Burns with a yellow-blue flame and a faint burnt ester scent. Softens at ≈ 220 °C.
🛠️ PBT+R Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PBT+R welding for aftermarket and recycled technical parts, ensuring a solid, durable, and eco-friendly finish.