We all know polyethylene terephthalate or PET is the main material for plastic water bottles, but did you know that PET is also used for a wide array of other products? This thin sheet of film offers several advantages for the packaging industry, such as clarity, strength, and recyclability. PET film also has easily printable materials, allowing designers to create eye-catching designs for their packaging needs.
PET films were first developed in the 1950s in America. It is made by drying, melting, extrusion, casting, and stretching polyethylene terephthalate chips. The term “biaxially oriented” in BoPET films refers to the way it is stretched in two different directions. It is this part of the process that allows PET films to be highly tensile in strength and secure products during transport.
The film’s versatility allows it to be used in many different ways, even in items that you might not realize were made from PET films. Here are 5 everyday items you might not realize are made with PET film:
Book Covers and Packaging: When you open a new book, there’s a layer of plastic film either wrapped around the book or in a resealable package. That packaging is often made from PET film, allowing for prolonged shelf life and storage. This also helps protect the book from moisture and bugs, preventing any form of fungi or advanced yellowing from happening. Additionally, the thin matte or glossy layer on book covers are also made of PET films.
Blister Packs: Some tools, toys, or hardware often come with hard plastic packages that envelop the product and thin board with all the product’s information. That clear plastic is likely PET film. It provides protection, excellent clarity, and durability, which allows companies to showcase their products while keeping it secure. Blister packs can also be found in pill or tablet packaging for vitamins and medication.
Windowed Boxes: Bakery treats, cereals, and even some frozen foods come in cardboard boxes with clear plastic windows. That window is usually PET film! It offers a glimpse of the product without compromising the box’s sturdiness and damages the freshness of the products.
Resealable Pouches: Do you know those resealable snacks and coffee pouches? The outer layer is often made of PET film which helps strengthen the structure of the packaging. Some products even have a clear window that allows you to see the products inside. Using PET films will keep the products fresh without sacrificing the design.
Metallized Films: When you open a bag of chips, you might see a shiny metallic look on the inside. These metallized layers are made of PET film combined with a thin layer of aluminum. This creates a barrier against light and moisture, keeping your favorite snacks fresh and crispy.
In order to keep products fresh, free from dust, and protected, a durable material is greatly needed. Not only that, the material must be lightweight and versatile in order to cater to the many needs of manufacturers. With PET films, manufacturers can create eye-catching designs without sacrificing the freshness of their products. Find out more about durable and lightweight PET films by visiting PT Argha Karya Prima Industry (https://arghakarya.com) on their website.