Material comparison

PEEK vs PEKK: which one?

The top of the high-performance polymers. From the PEEK family; a high-performance polymer used in aerospace and space that prints more easily. So which one is right for your project? Compare the values, strengths and weaknesses side by side.

Sample part made from PEEK

PEEK

Polyether ether ketone

PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic offering high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, thermal stability and fire resistance. It is preferred for complex and demanding industrial parts.

Strength5
Stiffness4
Toughness / impact4
Heat resistance5
Chemical resistance5
UV / outdoor4
Detail and surface3
Ease of production1
PEEK page →
Sample part made from PEKK

PEKK

Polyetherketoneketone

PEKK belongs to the PAEK (polyaryletherketone) family. It has chemical and thermal resistance similar to PEEK, but because it crystallizes more slowly it offers better layer adhesion and is easier to print with FDM. It is also preferred in space applications thanks to its low outgassing.

Strength5
Stiffness4
Toughness / impact3
Heat resistance5
Chemical resistance5
UV / outdoor4
Detail and surface3
Ease of production1
PEKK page →

Values

Technical comparison

PropertyPEEKPEKK
Density1.29 g/cm³1.28 g/cm³
Tensile strength100 MPa93 MPa
Elongation at break40 %4 %
Modulus (stiffness)4.2 GPa3.3 GPa
Heat deflection (0.45 MPa)150 °C150 °C
  • In terms of tensile strength, PEEK (100 MPa) and PEKK (93 MPa) are close.
  • In terms of heat resistance, PEEK (150 °C) and PEKK (150 °C) are close.
  • PEEK stretches further before breaking: 40 %, versus 4 % for PEKK.
  • PEEK is stiffer: 4.2 GPa, versus 3.3 GPa for PEKK.

Decision

Which one, and when?

Choose PEEK if…

  • Toughness / impact matters more
  • you are making aerospace and defense
  • you are making medical applications
  • you are making high-temperature environments

Choose PEKK if…

  • you are making aerospace and space parts
  • you are making fuel system components
  • you are making parts for chemical environments

Good to know

PEEK vs PEKK: frequently asked questions

Which is stronger: PEEK or PEKK?

In terms of tensile strength, PEEK (100 MPa) and PEKK (93 MPa) are close.

Which is more heat resistant: PEEK or PEKK?

In terms of heat resistance, PEEK (150 °C) and PEKK (150 °C) are close.

Which is easier to produce?

Both materials are similarly easy to produce.

Which is more economical?

Price levels are similar; the exact price depends on the part and quantity.

Which one is right for your part?

Tell us the operating conditions; let's decide together which of the two fits, or find a better alternative.