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Is Polyolefin film a better alternative to PVC films?

06 August, 2010- The importance of packing can be seen in the smallest of activities in our daily life. Shrink wrap is a commonly seen packaging films alternative that used for packaging needs at the time of relocation, or when gifting someone. The defining feature of the the shrink films is that it shrinks itself to fit the object being packed. Primarily there are two types of shrink packaging films that are commonly used: Polyolefin films & the PVC films.

To suit different and varying packaging needs, polyolefin films are available in a variety of sizes. Since polyolefin films and PVC films both serve the same purpose, the question about which one is better, often arises. Both kinds pf shrink packaging films have separate set of advantages and disadvantages that make them better or worse, only in a given situation or a context. Let us go through some of their properties that would be helpful in understanding their usability better.

Polyolefin Shrink Film

Polyolefin shrink film is a kind of film that is very commonly used for packaging food products. It is considered safe even when it comes in direct contact with the food. Polyolefin films are strong and do not tear easily. They are more flexible as compared to the PVC shrink films. They are available in a variety of sizes and and their price depends on factors like shine, clarity, size and the overall quality of the polyolefin film.

PVC Films

While polyolefin films are more durable and expensive than the PVC films, the popularity of PVC packaging films is more for packaging materials lie DVDs & CDs. It is more brittle than the polyolefin film, but it has a particular odor that makes it an inapt choice for food packaging needs.

Polyolefin Film Vs PVC Films

As per the need, a polyolefin film can be compared to a PVC film. As mentioned due to low costs, PVC films are more commonly used for packing materials like CDs & DVDs, that do not run the risk of being contaminated with the odor or by coming in direct contact with the films. But wherever a tamper proof packaging is required, polyolefin films are preferred over PVC films. They are increasingly coming up as a popular alternative to PVC shrink films and are gaining a substantial market share. Specially companies that are involved in food packaging, are making special efforts to switch to polyolefin films.