What are the types of plastic materials most commonly used in plastic packaging?
There are four main types of plastic material that are most commonly used in the plastic packaging industry. Polypropylene (PP): PP is the most widely used plastic in the local market, because of its good clarity and durability. It can withstand a fair amount of tension, making it ideal for heavier items. Oriented Polypropylene (OPP): Preferred for small and light objects. Has a higher clarity than Polypropylene (PP), but with less tensile strength it is more likely to tear or break under heavy stress. Therefore using OPP material is not advisable for heavy and/or irregular shaped items. High-density Polyethylene (HDPE): Made especially for items that require higher tensile strength and greater durability. HDPE is the material of choice for fabricating milk or juice bottles. Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE): Also referred to as simply PE. Has a wide range of applications. Recommended for packaging that requires high stress, crack resistance and elasticity.