BOPP and BOPET have been two of the most popular packaging materials for decades. Thanks to their clarity, strength, and printing capabilities, manufacturers everywhere have sought out these versatile materials to protect the freshness of their products. Both films can also be mixed with other materials to create novel packaging forms, like mixing aluminum to make a metalized film for dry snacks or adding white pigments and high cavitation for frozen products.
Innovations in BOPP and BOPET films have been made to increase film durability and flexibility. These advancements have changed the packaging world, making materials more affordable, lighter, and flexible for multiple uses. As we look to the future, several emerging technologies promise to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and functionality of BOPP and BOPET films.
The Film Orientation Process
Film properties are significantly altered using solid-phase orientation processes. Modifying manufacturing techniques allows films to be thinner and lighter than typical blown or cast films — making them tougher, high in tensile strength, heat resistant, tear resistant, and act as ample barriers for the products they protect. Some of these processes have quickly become the standard for film production including:
Monoaxial orientation: This is a process of stretching plastic films in one direction, machine or transverse direction only. In machine direction (MD) processes, a group of rollers is accelerated to stretch the film whereas transverse orientation (TD) uses a chain track system. Films made using this process are generally considered stiffer and stronger. However, they have poor tear resistance in the direction of the orientation. Monoaxial-oriented films are mainly used for shrink labels and sleeves on plastic bottles, containers, glasses, cans, and cups.
Biaxial orientation: Just like its name suggests, the biaxial orientation process stretches films in both MD and TD orientations. Stretching is done by increasing the speeds between a group of rollers before entering the tenter, a device that resembles an oven that grips and stretches the web transversely on diverting rails using a chain. Biaxially-oriented films generally have stronger tear resistance and cost less than monoaxial-oriented films, making them perfect for food packaging and tobacco packaging.
The Road Ahead: A Smart Future
While film production technology has advanced to increase overall product quality, research has continued to create multiple smart solutions to further include technology in packaging. As technology continues to fuse with our daily lives, customer engagement has become a priority for many companies. Anti-counterfeiting measures and QR code integration may start to become prevalent to increase customer satisfaction. Smart sensors may also be embedded to provide further information about product temperature, and authentication, and even suggest similar brands.
Smart packaging will also enable real-time data collection during production, ensuring consistent quality and minimizing defects in the film. Furthermore, advanced computer simulations will allow manufacturers to tailor film properties to specific applications before production begins — optimizing performance and reducing waste.
By embracing technological advancements, BOPP and BOPET film production is poised for a future that is both efficient and sustainable. These innovative films will continue to shape the landscape of FMCG packaging — offering superior functionality, improved sustainability, and a platform for future innovations that cater to the ever-evolving needs of consumers and the environment.
To find out more about the advantages of using BOPP and BOPET films for your packaging needs, visit PT Argha Karya Prima Industry Tbk (https://arghakarya.com).
Comments