Plastics
Plastics are a group of synthetic materials that are characterized by their ability to be molded into various shapes and forms when they are in a molten state but retain their shape when cooled and solidified.
There are different types of plastics that are classified based on their chemical composition and properties.
Plastics have become widely used in various industries and applications due to their versatility, durability, and low cost of production. They are used in packaging materials, consumer goods, construction, automotive parts, electronics, and many other sectors.
PE - Polyethylene
Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used plastic for packaging due its flexibility, strength, colorless opacity, and chemical resistance. Additionally, it's nontoxic in all forms. It's used in everything from flexible packaging, rigid packaging, to industrial applications like pallet wraps and shrink films.
LDPE - Low-Density
LDPE is widely used in plastic bags as it is light and flexible.
LLDPE - Linear Low-Density
LLDPE has higher tensile strength than LDPE, and thus, it is used predominantly in film applications due to its toughness, flexibility, and relative transparency.
HDPE - High-Density
HDPE is widely used for rigid containers since it is harder and offers higher strength and better heat resistance.
PP - Polypropylene
Laminates
High Barrier
High barrier films refer to materials that provide a barrier against moisture, oxygen, and other gases.
If aluminum based barriers offer great protection, why have other options? The biggest drawback is aluminum can get micro-tears and cracks under extreme stress. If flexible packaging is handled roughly or stretched to its limits, these tears and cracks that form negates its barrier protection and defeats its purpose.