Understanding BOPP Film: A Versatile Packaging Solution

04 Aug.,2025

 

Understanding BOPP Film: A Versatile Packaging Solution

Packaging Queen BOPP Film

BOPP is the “packaging queen” in the packaging film industry. It plays a pivotal role in the flexible packaging industry. Since the end of the s, the type of BOPP has also been continuously enriched, adding luster to the world of plastics.

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Polypropylene films that are stretched in cross directions and machine are termed Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) films. BOPP has received tremendous admiration as a high-growth film as it is an excellent barrier for water vapour, acts as a barrier to greases and oil, can be recycled, and is not affected by environmental changes. The diverse types of BOPP films include heat sealable, pearlized, thermal lamination, glossy, matte, and printable film. BOPP film manufacturers prioritize films with the highest quality standards and designs for superior performance.

The biodegradability and non-toxic features of BOPP films make it one of the most eco-friendly films on the market. With the growing awareness about environmental and pollution issues, it is more important than ever to consider such concerns.

Key highlights

BOPP films are increasingly adopted in the fields of applications like packaging, labeling, and lamination. These films are the preferred substrate for food packaging globally, owing to their inherent moisture barrier properties and sealability. Over the last few years, the demand for BOPP film has increased to 3.5% per annum. The need for flexible packaging has boosted BOPP film. CloudFilm’s BOPP film series is an excellent, high-quality packaging solution for customers.

Let’s explore the different types of this rising market’s packaging solution

BOPP films are available in different types. Flexible packaging needs to be as customizable as the name suggests. Therefore, BOPP films play a significant role in various fields by offering a number of its types. These types include:

Metallized BOPP Films

Metallized BOPP films are coated with a thin layer of metal (usually aluminum) to impart a metallic appearance and enhance barrier properties.

Usage:

Frequently used for flexible packaging of snacks, candies, pharmaceuticals and toiletries, providing superior shelf life and protection against moisture and oxygen.

Metallized BOPP Films in pharmaceuticals

BOPP Holographic Film

BOPP holographic film is made up of thermoplastic. It is a visually attractive film, featuring holographic patterns. These films are available in both transparent and opaque both.

Usage:

This type of lamination is mostly used to enhance brand packaging. It is mostly used in food, cosmetic, tobacco and alcohol packaging. It finds its applications in gift wrapping, security labels and decorative materials.

BOPP Holographic Film

Printable BOPP Film

Printable BOPP film has excellent gloss and high transparency. BOPP films are known for their excellent printability. Therefore this film is an ideal solution when it comes to advertising or decorating a product.

Usage:

You can use both sides of treated glossy or matte BOPP films for this purpose. The printed side remains at the outer side while the inner side is joined (to the other film) with an adhesive.

Printable BOPP Film for snacks packaging

BOPP Matte Film

BOPP matte film has excellent machinability and is ideal for lamination. With its eco-friendly film property, it is also significantly water and pollution-resistant. CloudFilm which is a manufacturer of soft touch matte laminating BOPP film provides both standard and customized soft touch film products and is committed to providing quality services and samples free of cost to a team of experts who are capable of providing customized solutions according to your requirements.

Usage:

This BOPP matte film is mainly used for flower packaging, reverse printing, lamination, textbook covering, and foodstuff packaging for flexible packaging.

BOPP Matt transparent film

Heat Sealable BOPP Film

Heat sealable BOPP film is stretchable, printable, and ideal for thermal lamination. It is a multi-layered film in which the first layer is a protective coating for the core. Then the core layer is BOPP film, and the innermost layer is heat-sensitive.

Usage:

Heat sealable BOPP film comes with a high-intensity seal to provide a secure and tight bond for flexible packaging that includes bakery items, confectionaries, and biscuit wraps.

BOPP Heat Sealable Film for mask packaging

Anti-Fog BOPP Films

Anti-fog BOPP films contains additives that prevent fog formation on the film surface, maintaining clarity even under refrigerated conditions.

Usage:

Essential for packaging fresh produce, salads, and refrigerated foods to ensure visual appeal and product visibility.

Anti-Fog- Heat sealable BOPP films

BOPP Pearlized Film

This film is a pearl-like white film that is opaque. It is the most in-demand film because the white surface provides excellent print adhesion.

Usage:

BOPP pearlized film laminates ice creams, candies, labels, drugs, and cosmetics. This film protects the products from sunlight, moisture, bacteria, and odour. It has low density, good machinability, and is antistatic.

Therefore you can easily use this film in printing and laminating machines. Also, due to its glossy and beautifully printing appearance, retailers prefer to have this film.

BOPP Pearlized Film

BOPP Gloss Film

This gloss film is available with different thicknesses, widths, and properties to laminate. BOPP glossy film is amazingly eco-friendly because, upon sun exposure, it doesn’t emit toxic materials. Thus, this film is the best to laminate food products. You can get BOPP gloss film in different types like matte, printable, tape-grade, and pearlized.

There are more than variants of BOPP gloss films. This film is in high demand because of its durability, strength, recyclability, and versatility.

Usage:

This film is ideal for cold lamination as it shows high adhesion strength with water-based, solvent-based, UV, or hot-melt adhesives. These laminates are ideal for hygiene and personal care products.

BOPP Glossy Lamination Film

BOPP Thermal Lamination Film

BOPP thermal lamination film is a heat-activated film, commonly used for lamination purposes with paper or other plastic films, offering excellent durability and clarity for printed material.

Usage:

BOPP thermal lamination Film finds its usage in the printing industry, document protection, advertising and exhibitions, decoration and artwork protection.

BOPP Thermal Lamination Film

Innovations in BOPP Films

Recycled Packaging

Packaging must achieve several criteria to be recycled, including separability, labelling, colouring, and cleanliness. BOPP filmmakers are trying to meet these standards with innovative package designs and by providing recyclable products.

The Bioplastics Revolution

Another priority is using superior biopolymers as a replacement for fossil-fuel-based materials. They aid in decreasing production’s carbon footprint, which has substantial implications for sustainability.

The Influence of the Customer

Regarding boosting the durability of packaging materials, communicating with customers about the best ways to use and reuse packaging is equally critical. Your efforts to create sustainable packaging will pay off when customers are informed about using, managing, and recycling packaging.

Conclusion: A versatile packaging film in a nutshell

BOPP films continue to evolve to meet the dynamic demands of the packaging industry, offering an extensive array of types, applications, and innovative solutions. From plain films to high-barrier and bio-based alternatives, BOPP films play a pivotal role in enhancing product visibility, shelf life, and sustainability across various sectors. As technology advances and sustainability concerns grow, the future of BOPP films lies in continuous innovation, driving towards eco-friendly, functional, and high-performance packaging solutions.

BOPP films are ubiquitous daily, although their presence often goes unnoticed. Due to their exceptional properties and versatility, BOPP films have revolutionized the packaging industry and become indispensable in various sectors. From food packaging to industrial applications, BOPP films play a crucial role. This blog post explores the sorts of BOPP films. We hope this blog will help you find a great flexible packaging solution in different sectors.

Used as a carrier film to achieve a matte effect on backing materials.

Applications

BOPP matte transfer film is used as a carrier film to transfer the matte surface to backing materials to achieve a matte effect, such as used in cloth substrate materials to achieve a matte leather imitation effect.

Main Characteristics

*  Matte surface coated evenly and smoothly

*  Suitable for different transferring process

*  Various matte levels available to meet different customers' requests

*  Suitable for large scale transfer or partial fixed-point transfer

Typical Values

PROPERTY

TEST METHOD

UNIT

TYPICAL VALUE

Thickness

GB/T

micron

22

Tensile Strength (MD/TD)

GB/T .3

MPa

150 / 283

Elongation at break (MD/TD)

GB/T .3

%

162 / 58

Heat Shrinkage (MD/TD)

GB/T (120℃, 2min)

%

3.0 / 0.2

Heat-sealing Strength

GB/T

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit BOPP Thermal Film.

%

3.3

Haze

GB/T

%

38-80

Gloss

GB/T

%

30-12

(All data are representative value, not the specified value.)

Introduction of BOPP Matte Transfer Film

A premium quality heat transfer film that offers a multitude of applications in the textile industry. With its unique matte finish and outstanding performance, this film is designed to elevate your artwork, enhance visual appeal, and create a lasting impression on the cloth surface.

Crafted from the finest polypropylene material, our BOPP Matt Transfer Film offers superior durability, flexibility, and resistance to tearing, making it a reliable choice for various transfer applications. Whether you're working on printing designs on paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, or textile surfaces, this film ensures seamless adhesion and exceptional image transfer, guaranteeing a professional and vibrant outcome every time.

One of the standout features of our BOPP Matt Transfer Film is its exquisite matte finish. Unlike traditional glossy films, this matte finish delivers a contemporary and sophisticated touch to your prints, enhancing the visual appeal and making your artwork truly stand out. The non-reflective nature of the film eliminates any unwanted glare, ensuring that your design remains the center of attention.

Furthermore, our BOPP Matt Transfer Film is incredibly versatile, capable of adapting to diverse printing techniques such as offset, flexography, gravure, and screen printing. The film's matte finish adds an elegant and premium touch to packaging, reflecting a sense of sophistication and quality, which resonates with consumers.

Furthermore, the BOPP Matt Transfer Film is renowned for its easy application process, making it ideal for both experienced professionals and newcomers in the industry. It adheres effortlessly to various surfaces, providing a smooth and uniform finish without any bubbles or creases. This easy-to-use quality saves time and effort, allowing for efficient production and delivery of high-quality prints.

In conclusion, our BOPP Matt Transfer Film is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a high-quality heat transfer film with a unique matte finish. Its outstanding durability, flexibility, and resistance to tearing ensure seamless adhesion and exceptional image transfer. The non-reflective matte finish adds a touch of sophistication, enhancing the visual appeal and making your prints truly stand out. With its excellent color retention properties, versatile printing capabilities, and easy application process, this film is guaranteed to elevate your artwork, packaging, and overall product presentation. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the unparalleled quality and versatility of our BOPP Matt Transfer Film.

Recommended Reading

Do You Know the BOPP Films?

BOPP Film VS BOPET Film VS BOPA Film

Is BOPP Film Recyclable?

Enhanced BOPP Film, Polypropylene Film
What Is Bopp? And Why We Use It For Labels & Stickers?
What Is Bopp Plastic Film? Bopp Film Manufacturing Process
What Is BOPP and When Should You Use a BOPP Label?
BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene)
BOPP Films - Bi-Axially Oriented Polypropylene Films
Exploring Versatility of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene BOPP Films
What Is Bopp Plastic Film? Bopp Film Manufacturing Process
BOPP Films
BOPP Film for Food and Tobacco Packaging and Labels

Unveiling the World of BOET and BOPP Films

BOPET and BOPP films are the most common flexible packaging films. However, they have different properties. Therefore, choosing the precise film is vital to the product’s safety, preservation, and appearance. This blog dives clients into the distinctions between BOPP and BOPET films, guiding them through their properties’ uses and assisting them in choosing the best one according to their requirements.

Why is a suitable film important?

Choosing packaging film is not just a matter of cost; this directly affects the sustainability and shelf life of the product. Packaging films have diverse degrees of chemical, cold, heat resistance, barrier properties, and mechanical strength, making the right choice important for manufacturers and consumers.

Wholesome Characteristics of BOPET and BOPP Films

BOPP Films: Exploring the Versatility and Cost-Effectiveness

Compared with the non-stretch film, biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film undergoes transverse and longitudinal stretching deformation in molding. Thus, the arrangement of its molecular chains or chain segments will change, significantly improving the film’s performance.

BOPP film has excellent mechanical strength, chemical, cold, and heat resistance, a good barrier, and a low price. It has become the most widely used packaging material, known as the “packaging queen.”

Key features of BOPP Films

  • High Transparency and Glossiness
  • Lightweight yet durable
  • Good mechanical properties
  • Eco-friendly
  • Optimized for printing and processing
  • Low cost

Enhancement in better functioning of BOPP Films

Although BOPP film has many excellent properties, its chemical structure does not contain active groups. Meanwhile, it becomes difficult to wet and bind for many reasons, such as high crystallinity, low surface energy, chemical inertness, surface pollution, and a weak boundary layer.

The poor wettability greatly limits the application of the BOPP film in ink, adhesives, composite materials, heat sealing, and coating areas. Therefore, the secondary treatment of the BOPP film is necessary to improve its wettability and adhesion.

As a major manufacturer in China, CLOUD FILM offers an extensive range of BOPP films, encompassing gloss, thermal lamination, adhesive-free lamination, metalized, anti-fog, anti-scratch, coated, cigarette, and heat sealable films. These diverse BOPP films provide customers with high-quality products and the best packaging solutions.

BOPET Films: A Deep Dive into Durability and Lucidity

Biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET) thin films are among the most exciting products for packaging applications. Their increased utilization is due to their outstanding properties, such as oxygen and water vapor barrier, high tensile strength, and complete recyclability.

Key features of BOPET

  • Excellent transparency
  • Excellent Mechanical strength
  • Thermal stability
  • Chemical resistance
  • Good barrier properties

Enhancement in better functioning of BOPET

Typical treatments carried out on BOPET films involve the utilization of atmospheric, low-pressure, and vacuum electric discharge or the application of chemicals like alkali solution, which improves adhesion performance by increasing roughness, or polymeric lacquering, such as epoxy, vinyl acetate, or acrylic resins, that acts as a primer for further lamination processes.

BOPET films from CLOUD FILM are available in thicknesses ranging from 6 to 80 microns and various types, including Plain, Surface-Treated, Chemically Coated, Matte, Heat-Sealed, Metallizable, and extra-clear. These wide ranges of BOPET films ensure the highest standard to meet customer expectations.

Head-to-Head: Comparing BOPET and BOPP films

Property BOPET BOPP Full name Biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate Biaxially oriented polypropylene Resin PET PP Tensile strength High High Elongation at break High High Modulus of elasticity High High Yield strength High High Tear strength High High Impact strength High High Puncture resistance High High Stiffness High High Hardness High High Melting point 260 oC 170 oC Glass transition temperature 70  oC −10oC Density 1.4 g/cm3 0.9 g/cm3 Water absorption Low Low Oxygen barrier Good Poor Moisture barrier Good Poor Chemical resistance Good Good Heat resistance Excellent Good Cold resistance Excellent Good Optical properties Excellent Excellent Printability Good Excellent Cost High Low Applications Food packaging, beverage packaging,

electronic packaging, industrial applications, medical applications

d packaging, beverage packaging, tobacco

packaging, stationery, textile packaging, gift wrapping, etc.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between BOPET and BOPP Films

Aspects to Consider

BOPET and BOPP films are widely used in the packaging industry; each has advantages and application scenarios. When choosing, consider the following aspects:

Heat resistance

BOPET film has better heat resistance than BOPP film. If the packaging material needs to withstand high-temperature treatment (such as baking, microwave heating, etc.), BOPET film is more suitable.

Transparency and glossiness

BOPP film generally has superior transparency and glossiness, which is suitable for packaging that needs to display the appearance of the goods, such as food, candy, gift packaging, etc.

Tear resistance

BOPET film has better tear resistance than BOPP film, making it suitable for packaging that requires higher strength and durability, such as electronic products and industrial parts.

Barrier necessities

Barrier properties reflect the level of protection needed against air and moisture. BOPET film has good barrier properties compared to BOPP film.

Cost

The cost of BOPP film is usually lower than that of BOPET film. If cost is the main consideration, BOPP film may be preferred.

Environmental factors

The environmental performance of both materials is also a factor to consider when choosing. Generally speaking, BOPP film has better recyclability and is suitable for applications with higher ecological sustainability.

Expert recommendations

If you need to package frozen food that needs to be heated in a microwave, considering the need for heat resistance, BOPET film should be chosen. If you need to package candy, mainly considering displaying the appearance of the product and reducing costs, BOPP film can be chosen. In summary, when selecting between BOPP film and BOPET film, it is necessary to consider specific packaging requirements and product characteristics comprehensively.

Finally, from a packaging expert’s perspective, quality and sustainable environmental goals are critical for a customer considering the development of flexible packaging films from manufacture to disposal.

Conclusion: Making an informed decision

After evaluating the differences in characteristics between BOPET and BOPP films, your packaging requirements, and cost-effectiveness, you must decide which film to use. Each film offers specific properties and serves different purposes, making the selection highly dependent on the product’s specific needs and the manufacturer’s goals.

Selecting the appropriate film can improve your product’s shelf life and sustainability, eventually contributing to greater customer contentment and an eco-friendly environment.

Polypropylene (BOPP) Labels - Everything You Need To Know

Does your company need labels that are capable of withstanding harsh environments and challenging applications?  If the answer to that question is yes, then Polypropylene Labels might be a perfect fit.

Polypropylene labels are popular for companies that need a more durable label as these have the best combination of value and strength compared to other film labels.

These labels offer strength and durability that a common paper label cannot.  Simply put, for some applications, a paper label doesn’t have the durability, longevity or resistance required to meet the requirements of the job.  

Want to learn more about how polypropylene labels could fit into your business?  Listed below is everything you need to know to decide if polypropylene labels are right for you.

What are BOPP Labels?

BOPP stands for biaxially-oriented polypropylene.  The BOPP abbreviation actually breaks down into two components. 

  • BO –  stands for “biaxially-oriented”.  
  • PP –  stands for polypropylene. 

When combined together, it really just means that the polypropylene materials have been stretched flat in two directions.  This process enhances the strength properties of the film to meet the needs of demanding applications. In the end, BOPP and polypropylene labels are essentially the same and are commonly interchangeable terms. The most important attribute is a BOPP film label provides a smooth printing surface to meet the demands of your application.  

  • Tearproof

  • Moisture Resistant

  • Scratch Resistant

  • Lowest Priced Film Label

  • 6 Month – 2 Year Lifespan

  • Excellent Print Quality

  • Low Toxicity

  • Matte Finish

  • Oil Resistant

Advantages of Polypropylene (BOPP) Labels

Companies choose polypropylene labels for applications that require a more durable label.  For example, if you need a label for short-term outdoor use, that might be exposed to water  or needs to withstand significant wear and tear, a polypropylene label might be right for you.  

  • Value – If you are in need of a durable label, BOPP labels offer the best combination of quality and affordability. 
  • Durability – BOPP labels are both tear, weather, and scratch resistant.   They also offer both chemical and oil resistance.
  • Matte & Clear Finishes – BOPP labels can be used for both barcoding (matte finishes) and product labeling for that “no label look”
  • Excellent Printability – Thermal Transfer BOPP labels have a topcoating so the ink and image anchor better to the surface of the film. 

Disadvantages of Polypropylene (BOPP) Labels

While polypropylene labels are great for many applications, they do not work in every application or environment. Here are some disadvantages of using BOPP labels. 

  • Not Waterproof – BOPP labels are only water resistant, they are not waterproof. 
  • Medium Life Span – the typical lifespan of a BOPP label is 6 months to 2 years. If your application requires the label to last longer than 2 years, you might consider a polyester or vinyl label. 
  • Price – If you compare the price of BOPP labels to paper labels you might be surprised. They are typically 2 to 3 times as expensive as their paper counterparts but the total cost of ownership in application needs to be considered when making your material selection.
  • Non Rigid Applications –  BOPP labels are suitable for rigid surface/container applications, not recommended for squeezable applications.

Common Industries Using BOPP Labels

Almost every company has a use for a more durable label.  However, by their very nature, some industries require a stronger label.  Those industries include but are not limited to the following: 

  • Horticulture
  • Plant Nurseries
  • Lumberyard
  • Shipping
  • Meat / Poultry
  • Warehouse Labeling
  • Rack Labeling
  • Shelf Marking
  • Retail Labels

Applications

Due to their versatility, the possible applications for BOPP labels are almost limitless.  However, listed below are the most common applications for these types of labels.

  • Electronics
  • Machinery
  • Warehouse Bins
  • Barrels
  • Floors
  • Storage Racks
  • Cable and wire labels
  • Security, property and asset tags
  • Construction tool and equipment labels
  • Pallet, carton and shipping labels
  • Drum and hazard labels
  • Outdoor labels
  • Consumer product labels
  • Retail Shelf Labels
  • Baggage Tags
  • Prime Label Applications
  • Beverage Labels

BOPP Label Finishes

  • White BOPP – is the most common of the BOPP materials.  This matte white finish label is typically used for asset management.  This label comes with a permanent adhesive for most general purpose applications.  These labels are commonly bought blank and then printed on with barcodes.
  • Clear BOPP –  Another popular version of BOPP labels are made with a clear finish.  These BOPP labels can achieve a “no label” look that is great for beverages and window stickers, where transparency is a requirement.  Clear labels are popular for companies that want to display the contents that are inside of the container.  Popular clear BOPP labels include window stickers and beverage labels.
  • Silver (Chrome) & Gold BOPP – Provides a shiny (metallic) look to your labels.  Additionally, they can provide the same durability and resistance of normal BOPP labels.  These labels provide a reflective look that is very popular for consumer products such as candles, wine, and more.
  • Removable BOPP –  A great solution for companies that need their labels to be removed at some point after application.  The adhesive on these labels is less aggressive than your traditional permanent adhesive.

Format – Direct Thermal vs Thermal Transfer

If your company already has a thermal printer, such as a Zebra, Datamax, or Sato you would be a great candidate for thermal polypropylene labels.  

Why go thermal you might ask?  Not only will these thermal BOPP labels produce a high-quality barcode but they are much cheaper than durable laser sheet, polyester, or vinyl labels. 

These thermal BOPP labels would come in one of two formats: Direct Thermal (no ribbon) or Thermal Transfer (ribbon required).  

The advantage of Direct Thermal labels is they do not require a ribbon to print.  This means that you only need to inventory one supply item, as opposed to the two required for Thermal Transfer.  Although these Direct Thermal BOPP labels are top coated for additional environmental protection, they are still more likely to scuff compared to their Thermal Transfer counterparts.   

For that reason, we typically recommend customers utilize Thermal Transfer labels. After all, if you are looking for a more durable label, thermal transfer provides added durability which is critical so it meets your needs.   Finally, Thermal Transfer BOPP labels do require a special ribbon that has been formulated to print on the label (more on that later).

Wax/Resin Ribbon

Thermal transfer film labels require a special wax/resin ribbon to print.  These types of ribbons offer excellent print quality and great mechanical resistance. Additionally, wax/resin ribbons can be printed with both near-edge and corner-edge print heads.

Wax/resin ribbons are recommended for BOPP labels because they print a more durable image than a standard wax ribbon.  In short, the addition of the resin to the ribbon creates a protective barrier over the image that makes it hard to scuff or rub off.

Although these ribbons are more expensive than the basic wax ribbon, they are a recommended for anyone planning to print on BOPP film labels.  If you want to learn more about the different types of thermal ribbons, we have a great guide here. 

Alternatives To BOPP Labels

While polypropylene labels are great for many applications, they do not work for everything.  Application, lifespan, and regulations might dictate that another material, such polyester or vinyl might be required. 

Polyester labels are generally recommended for applications that require a larger lifespan, heat resistance, and additional durability.  These labels are usually a good fit for long-term outdoor applications as they are waterproof. Finally, polyester labels are commonly printed with laser printers due to their inherent heat resistance.

Vinyl labels, while the most expensive of the three options, will provide the longest lifespan.  These labels are extremely durable, produce high-quality print, and are waterproof. These types of labels are also commonly printed with laser printers.

Finally, if your application doesn’t require a long lasting or durable label, paper thermal labels will be just fine.  The standard paper label does great for short-term applications such as shipping, case, and pallet identification labels.  These are available in direct thermal, thermal transfer, and laser sheet labels.

Check out our video on why you should use polypropylene labels here!