ISO 23153-1:2020

Overview

ISO 23153-1:2020 defines a standardized designation system and the basis for specifications for polyetheretherketone (PEEK) moulding and extrusion materials. The standard describes how to identify PEEK grades using a compact code that captures key designatory properties (melt viscosity / melt volume‑flow rate, tensile modulus, tensile strength) plus information on intended application, processing method, additives, fillers and reinforcement. It is a labeling/specification framework - not a source of engineering, performance or processing data.

Key topics and requirements

• Designation format: A structured individual-item block divided into five data blocks (1–5) separated by commas.
  • Data block 1: Identity - abbreviated term PEEK (ISO 1043-1).
  • Data block 2: Fillers/reinforcements and content (codes per ISO 1043-2).
  • Data block 3: Intended application / processing and key additives/colour.
  • Data block 4: Designatory properties (MV/MVR, tensile modulus, tensile strength).
  • Data block 5: Optional additional requirements to convert designation into a full specification.
• Melt property coding: Melt viscosity (MV) is measured per ISO 11443 at 400 °C and shear rate 1 000 s−1 (condition A). Melt volume‑flow rate (MVR) is per ISO 1133-1 at 400 °C with appropriate loads (2.16 kg or 10 kg for low MVR). MV/MVR are expressed as a two‑character code: test-condition character (A/B/C) + range number (1–6).
• Mechanical property ranges:
  • Tensile modulus coded in 2‑figure numbers (e.g., 05 = ≤5 GPa; 15 = >10 ≤20 GPa; up to 40 = >40 GPa).
  • Tensile strength coded in 3‑figure numbers (e.g., 120 = ≤120 MPa; 170 = >120 ≤220 MPa; up to >320 MPa).
• Important notes: Same designation does not guarantee identical performance between suppliers; additional test data (ISO 23153-2) should be used when engineering or processing parameters are required.

Applications and who uses it

• Purpose: Provide a common, unambiguous way to designate and specify PEEK grades for procurement, material data sheets, quality control and regulatory documentation.
• Typical users: material manufacturers, compounders, moulders and extruders, OEM engineers, procurement/specification teams and standards bodies working with high‑performance thermoplastics.
• Practical value: Speeds up communication about material selection, clarifies filler/additive content and facilitates comparison of PEEK grades across suppliers.

Related standards

• ISO 23153-2 (test methods / additional properties)
• ISO 1133-1 (MVR testing)
• ISO 11443 (melt viscosity rheometry)
• ISO 527-1 / ISO 527-2 (tensile testing)
• ISO 1043-1 / ISO 1043-2 (polymer and filler codes)

This standard is essential when specifying PEEK for moulding and extrusion to ensure clear, consistent material labeling and traceability.