Abstract: Methods of making metal-terephthalate polymers from a polyester ethylene terephthalate or terephthalic acid produces high yield and high purity reaction products for a range of metals. Among the preferred metal compounds employed in the processes are metal oxides and metal hydroxides. The methods are preferably carried out at a low pressure and can produce metal-terephthalate polymer powders containing small crystals which can be employed to enhance properties of polymers or disperse metals in specific applications by thermal decomposition of metal-terephthalate polymers.