BOPP vs. BOPP: Unraveling the Differences You Need to Know!

In the world of packaging, it can sometimes feel like you're drowning in a sea of acronyms and technical jargon. Among these is BOPP, an abbreviation that stands for Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene. But wait, there's a twist! There are two types of BOPP: BOPP film and BOPP tape. Understanding the differences between these two can be crucial in making informed decisions when it comes to packaging. In this blog, we will unravel the distinctions to help you navigate the world of BOPP like a pro!

1. What is BOPP Film?

BOPP film, also referred to as BOPP laminate, is a versatile material widely used in the packaging industry. It is a thin, transparent polypropylene film manufactured through a biaxial stretching process, resulting in improved mechanical and optical properties. BOPP film offers excellent clarity and high tensile strength, making it ideal for various applications such as food packaging, labels, and wrapping materials.

Manufacturing Process: The production of BOPP film involves extruding polypropylene resin and then stretching it simultaneously in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. This biaxial orientation enhances the film's strength, clarity, and moisture barrier properties.

Properties and Advantages: BOPP film offers exceptional optical qualities, making it an excellent choice for products that require visual appeal. Its moisture resistance and grease barrier properties protect the contents, ensuring product integrity during storage and transportation. Additionally, BOPP film can be printed on, heat-sealed, and laminated, providing endless options for customization.

2. What is BOPP Tape?

While similar in name, BOPP tape serves a different purpose than its film counterpart. BOPP tape, or Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene tape, is a durable adhesive tape widely used for packaging, sealing, and securing boxes. Renowned for its high-tensile strength and strong adhesive properties, BOPP tape is an industry favorite.

Manufacturing Process: The production process of BOPP tape involves coating one side of a BOPP film with adhesive, commonly acrylic or hot melt rubber. This adhesive layer provides a strong bonding agent, ensuring secure packaging and reliable sealing.

Properties and Advantages: BOPP tape offers excellent resistance to impact, moisture, and temperature variations, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of environments. Its high tack adhesive sticks instantly to surfaces, providing a reliable seal. Moreover, BOPP tape is easy to unwind and tear, further streamlining packaging processes.

3. Key Differences: BOPP Film vs. BOPP Tape.

a. Function: BOPP film is primarily used for its optical clarity, versatility in printing and laminating, and moisture barrier properties. On the other hand, BOPP tape is designed for packaging and sealing purposes, providing robust adhesive properties to ensure secure closures.

b. Manufacturing: BOPP film undergoes a stretching process in both longitudinal and transverse directions, while BOPP tape is simply a BOPP film coated with adhesive on one side.

c. Thickness: BOPP film is generally thinner, ranging from 12 to 60 microns, depending on the application. BOPP tape, however, is thicker, typically measuring between 38 to 55 microns to provide additional strength and durability.

d. Usage Environment: BOPP film is commonly used for products that require visual appeal and protection against moisture, grease, and oxygen. Meanwhile, BOPP tape is utilized for sealing boxes in different environments, including those with temperature variations or exposure to moisture.

Conclusion:

Differentiating between BOPP film and BOPP tape is essential in the packaging industry. Understanding the distinctions allows us to make informed choices and select the most suitable material for our specific needs. Whether you require excellent optical clarity and customization possibilities (BOPP film) or a reliable seal and sturdy packaging (BOPP tape), both options provide indispensable advantages for various applications.

Remember, BOPP film and BOPP tape may have similar origins, but their purpose and properties set them apart. By unraveling these differences, you possess the knowledge needed to optimize your packaging processes and achieve outstanding results!

So, the next time you encounter BOPP, you can confidently navigate the packaging landscape, knowing the distinctions between BOPP film and BOPP tape.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of pet non-silicone release liner, what is bopp films, is bopp film recyclable. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.