As a manufacturer of PET, HDPE, and PP bottles for over 15 years, one of the most common questions we receive from cosmetic, chemical, and industrial customers is:
“Can PET bottles safely store acetone?”
Short answer: No. PET bottles cannot safely store acetone.
Acetone will soften, crack, and eventually destroy PET containers.
Choosing the correct material for solvent-based formulations is critical for safety, performance, and brand reputation. This guide explains why PET is incompatible with acetone and which materials you should use instead.
What Happens When Acetone Contacts PET?
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) performs well for:
- Cosmetics
- Food & beverage packaging
- Personal care formulations
- Water-based household products
However, PET fails rapidly when exposed to ketone solvents, especially:
- Acetone
- MEK
- MIBK
❗ Effects of Acetone on PET
-
Softening of PET walls
Acetone penetrates PET’s polymer chain structure. -
Stress cracking & whitening
Bottle becomes cloudy or brittle. -
Loss of structural integrity
The base may deform or collapse. -
Leaks & complete container failure
Making PET unsafe for storage or transport.
Why PET Is Not Chemically Compatible with Acetone
Acetone is a very aggressive solvent with:
- Small molecular size
- High polarity
- Very strong solvency power
These characteristics allow acetone to diffuse into PET’s polymer matrix and cause:
- Polymer swelling
- Molecular chain separation
- Stress cracking
- Rapid loss of strength
Global resin manufacturers such as SABIC, Eastman, and Indorama clearly classify PET as:
❌ “Not compatible with acetone or strong organic solvents.”
Safer Packaging Materials for Acetone
✔ HDPE Bottles (Most Recommended)
HDPE offers excellent resistance to ketones and industrial solvents. It is the standard choice for:
- Nail polish remover
- Adhesive removers
- Industrial degreasers
- Lab solvents
- Chemical cleaners
Why brands choose HDPE:
- Strong chemical resistance
- Good impact durability
- Excellent stress-crack resistance
- Cost-efficient and widely available
✔ PP Bottles (Moderate Compatibility)
Suitable for:
- Closures
- Dispensing pumps
- Certain solvent-resistant products
✔ Glass Bottles (Premium / Lab Use)
Best for:
- High-purity acetone
- Cosmetic-grade solvents
- Laboratory storage
PET vs HDPE vs PP vs Glass for Acetone Storage
| Material | Acetone Compatibility | Chemical Resistance | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| PET | ❌ Not compatible | Low | Cosmetics, beverages |
| HDPE | ✅ Fully compatible | Excellent | Industrial & chemical packaging |
| PP | ✔ Limited | Good | Closures, pumps |
| Glass | ✅ Fully compatible | Excellent | Premium & lab-grade solvents |
Signs of PET Damage After Acetone Exposure
If acetone has been filled into PET bottles, users may observe:
- Cloudiness
- Soft or rubbery texture
- Surface cracks
- Deformation of the bottle
- Unexpected leakage
These are signs of material degradation, requiring immediate repackaging.
Products That Should Never Use PET Packaging
Do not use PET for any formulation containing:
- Acetone
- MEK
- MIBK
- Toluene
- Xylene
- Strong degreasers
- Solvent-based adhesives
- Nail polish remover
These chemicals break down PET rapidly.
When Is PET a Good Choice?
PET performs extremely well for:
- Water-based cosmetics
- Toners & gels
- Lotions
- Food & beverage products
- pH-neutral cleaning products
PET is safe, durable, and visually appealing — as long as the formula does not contain strong organic solvents.
Conclusion: Can PET Bottles Store Acetone?
No — PET bottles cannot safely store acetone or any strong ketone solvent.
Acetone will cause:
- Softening
- Cracking
- Warping
- Leakage
- Container failure
For solvent-based formulations, use:
- HDPE (best option)
- PP
- Glass
Choosing the correct bottle material ensures product safety, stability, and regulatory compliance.
If you need assistance selecting the right packaging solution, our engineering team is ready to help.
