Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene is also known as BOPP. BOPP film is a versatile packaging material in various areas. But what exactly is BOPP film, and why is it so popular in packaging? This blog, written by Zhongjia Printing, an эксперт по производству гибкой упаковки, explores the definition, characteristics, production process, common uses, and the advantages and limitations of BOPP film in the packaging industry.
What is BOPP film？
It is made from polypropylene resin and is stretched in both the machine direction (MD) and transverse direction (TD), which enhances its strength, transparency, and durability. The process of stretching the film in two directions gives it superior mechanical properties compared to non-oriented films. Finally, it becomes more resistant to tearing, puncturing, and other physical damage, which is ideal for packaging applications.
Main Properties of BOPP Film
BOPP film is greatly desired because it boasts excellent features that render it suitable for use in a vast array of packaging:
- Transparency: The film itself is very transparent, and the consumer is able to clearly see whatever is inside the package. This makes it perfectly suitable for use in packaging commodities where appearance counts.
- Resistance to Water and Oil: BOPP film is highly resistant to water and oil, which is of tremendous help while packing beverages and food items.
- Printability: The surface of it is ideal for quality printing, hence an ideal choice for branding, naming, and labeling. The film allows for bright colors and good-quality images, which are billboards of products.
- Environmentally friendly: This kind of film is 100% recyclable and is hence an environmentally friendly choice for green consumers and brands.
The Production Process of BOPP Film
There is a high-tech process named biaxial orientation. It begins with the melting of polypropylene resin and its subsequent extrusion in the shape of a thin sheet. The sheet is then stretched longitudinally and transversely with the aid of advanced machinery. Stretching provides strength, clarity, and barrier characteristics to the film, yielding a very strong and versatile product.
After the stretching of the film, the film also undergoes additional treatments, such as corona treatment to improve the adhesion of the film on the surface for lamination and printing. This makes BOPP film a very apt material applied in packaging applications requiring good-quality prints and strength.
Common Applications in Packaging
Упаковка для пищевых продуктов
One of the major uses of BOPP film is in the packaging of food. Due to its transparency, resistance, and water tightness, it is employed for large-scale packing of biscuits, cookies, sweets, and nuts. It helps maintain the freshness of the contents and provides a shelf life of several months. Its good printability also assists in providing good graphics to attract customers.
Beverage Packaging
Moreover, in bottle drinking beverage labels, this film is instrumental. Clarity of the film can indicate the beverage content, which is highly important for beverages like juice, soda, and water. Its water and oil barrier can protect the beverage from degrading, hence extending its lifespan.
Daily Use Product Packaging
For shampoos, lotions, and soaps as cosmetic items, biaxially oriented polypropylene film is a cost-effective but safe packaging material. It is also water-resistant and sturdy, and there exists a suitable print option for promotional and brand-building activities.
Industrial Product Packaging
BOPP film’s durability and abrasion resistance also qualify it for use in packaging industrial items, such as mechanical components and machinery. BOPP film provides an added level of protection against product damage during handling and shipment.
Labels and Printed Materials
One of the most superior features of biaxially oriented polypropylene film is that it possesses good print-holding quality. Due to this, it is widely used on product labels, promotions, and packaging. The glossy finish in the film provides an extra appeal to printed labels and, hence, is in high demand in marketing and branding.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene Film
Advantages
- Affordability: This film is cheaper than other packaging films, thus becoming a cost-effective choice for producers.
- Strength: Due to its high tear strength, BOPP film tightly packages products against damage during transit and handling.
- Eco-friendly: With its recyclable nature, it addresses changing consumer concerns for greener packaging materials.
Disadvantages
- Poor heat-sealing properties: Despite being otherwise so much better in so many respects, the heat-sealing properties of BOPP film are weaker than some of the other packaging films. It may be complemented by others in applications where sealing is needed.
- Low-temperature performance: BOPP film becomes brittle in cold temperatures compared to PE and CPP, so it is not recommended to use it in freezing conditions.
The Future of BOPP Film in Packaging
The future of biaxially oriented polypropylene film will grow over the next years, led by its multi-functionality factor and growing requirement for sustainable packaging. The production technology is also evolving, with companies concentrating on enhancing the barrier functionality of the film and expanding the application space. With its recyclability and cost advantage factor, it will be a commodity product in the packaging segment over the next twenty years.
Заключение
From transparency and printability to recyclability and affordability, it is gaining more and more popularity for a wide range of packaging uses. With increasing demands for environmentally friendly and high-performance packaging materials, BOPP film is set to remain a central part of the packaging industry.
О компании Zhongjia Printing
Компания Zhongjia Printing является эксперт по производству гибкой упаковки, specializing in flexible packaging for various industries. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our use of Технология печати чернилами на водной основе, which reduces harmful emissions and minimizes environmental impact without compromising print quality.
We offer индивидуальные решения для гибкой упаковки tailored to meet your brand’s needs, ensuring both exceptional product protection and eco-friendly packaging options.