Aluminum as a metal is widely used in making aluminum foil which in turn is used an efficient packaging material. Aluminum foil is prepared out of aluminum in the form of thin sheets which is about 0.02 mm in thickness. The foil is extremely pliable as a result of which it can be bent or wrapped around objects with great ease. Usually, an extremely thin layer , usually around 0.0065 mm is laminated to other materials like plastics and paper to make packaging material.

Aluminum foil as a packaging material
Aluminum foil was used as a packaging material shortly after its initial production way back in 1913. Aluminum foil is one of the major flexible packaging material and is used all over the world in the protection and packaging of foods, cosmetics and chemical products. About 85% of all aluminum foil produced is used in some form of packaging. The major packaging applications of aluminum foil are :

• Household foil, 35%
• Laminated foil, 30% and
• Formed containers, 28.5%.

Properties of aluminum foil
Aluminum foil has a highly reflective side and a more matte side. This is due to a common manufacturing process. As the foil is easy to tear, it is sent through machines in pairs. The side where the foil comes in contact with the other sheet is more matte than the other side.

Benefits of aluminum foil as a packaging material

• Excellent impermeability to water vapor and gases.
• Extends shelf life.
• Uses less storage space.
• Generates less waste than many other packaging materials.
• Used as the barrier component in flexible cans.
• Acts as a barrier to oxygen, light, and odor.
• Nontoxic and hygienic.
• Greaseproof and non-absorptive to liquids.
• Ultraviolet radiation increase the forming of rancidity in certain foods. Since foil is a good barrier to this radiation, resisting loss in flavor and appearance, and showing development of rancidity and staleness, it is widely used in storing food items.
• The aluminum packaging foil can be coated for protection, decoration, or heat sealing.

Applications of aluminum foil in packaging

• Aluminum foil is used for pharmaceutical blister packages.
• It is used in the aseptic drink box
• Suited for packaging medicinal oils.
• Suitable for packing ointments, grease-base cosmetics.
• As an effective barrier to light, aluminum foil is used extensively to package photographic materials and other light-sensitive products.
• It is used to make long life packs for dairy products, drinks, and many other sensitive foods.
• Aluminum foil trays and containers are used to bake cakes and pies.
• It is also used to pack takeaway meals, ready snacks and long life pet foods.
• Aluminum foil is used for wrapping food in order to preserve it in refrigerator.
• Candy-bar and chewing gum wraps make use of many of the desirable properties of aluminum foil.