OPP Film and BOPP Film: The Versatile Polypropylene Packaging Solution

BOPP/OPP is one of the most versatile and durable materials in the packaging industry. From food and gift packaging to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, and on to electronic products and promotional packaging for all kinds of items—this innovative packaging material has long been a staple in the packaging industry. As demand for sustainable and safe packaging solutions continues to rise, more and more producers and manufacturers are turning to OPP and BOPP film due to its cost-effectiveness and performance advantages.

What is OPP film?

OPP stands for “Oriented Polypropylene,” which refers to oriented polypropylene film. As the name suggests, in OPP film, the polypropylene material is processed in an oriented manner—that is, it is stretched in one direction, such as lengthwise or crosswise. When stretched in only one direction, it is referred to as monoaxial OPP film. This stretching process positively enhances the film’s properties in terms of tear resistance, transparency, and other characteristics.

The Difference Between OPP and BOPP

BOPP stands for “biaxially oriented polypropylene.” Unlike monoaxial OPP film, BOPP is stretched in both directions—transversely and longitudinally. During production, the stretching occurs in both the transverse and longitudinal directions, resulting in a more uniform distribution of the molecules. Due to the biaxial stretching, BOPP films (films ) are generally more durable and long-lasting than OPP films (films ) and offer improved strength and clarity. This makes them ideal for applications that require high strength and durability in both directions. OPP film, on the other hand, is preferred when high strength in one direction is sufficient, such as when packaging heavier products or for technical applications.

How OPP and BOPP Film Is Made

The processing of OPP or BOPP film follows a predetermined sequence that generally consists of the steps of preheating, stretching, stabilization, and cooling. Technically speaking, the polypropylene films are fed through rollers at increasing speeds, thereby stretching them. Stretching allows the thickness and weight of the film per square meter to be adjusted, which is reflected in its tear strength and mechanical properties. The film is then heat-set through further heating, thereby providing the many advantages for which OPP and BOPP films are known.

The base material, polypropylene (PP), is a thermoplastic polymer known for its excellent barrier properties against moisture, grease, and odors. In addition, PP is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, making PPfilms a good choice for product packaging that comes into contact with various substances.

The Advantages of OPP and BOPP Film

OPP and BOPP film combine a number of properties that make them the ideal packaging solution for numerous industries.

The high transparency and optical brilliance ensure that products can be presented in a visually appealing way—perfect for packaging that goes directly to the end consumer. Customers can see at a glance what they’re buying, while the product also appears professionally and high-quality packaged. Whether a matte or glossy finish is desired, OPP film offers the right solution for a sales-promoting presentation.

Its high mechanical strength and tear resistance also make the film ideal for demanding packaging applications. Products are reliably protected from moisture, dirt, dust, and mechanical stress throughout the entire process—from production through transportation to the store shelf. Even products that may come into contact with various substances benefit from the chemical resistance of the base material, polypropylene.

The film is highly printable—company logos and product information can be printed directly onto it in up to 8 colors, ensuring high brand recognition. Advertising is displayed directly on the product, while the product itself remains clearly visible through the transparent film—creating a successful blend of aesthetics and functionality. For companies that want to make their brand visible at the point of sale, printed BOPP film is an effective and straightforward solution.

Recyclability and Sustainability

Made from polypropylene, BOPP/OPP film is 100% recyclable, PPWR-compliant, and can be easily recycled after use as part of the recycling cycle. Its recyclability is a significant advantage for companies that want to achieve their sustainability goals, adapt their packaging solutions in accordance with the EU Packaging Directive, and reduce their environmental impact. Using the thinnest possible gauges and managing film lengths carefully are another key consideration: The film rolls are custom-cut to meet the specific needs of each packaging machine, thereby preventing unnecessary consumption of film material.

Perforations for Optimal Freshness

Depending on the application requirements, OPP-films s are available in micro-perforated, macro-perforated, or hot-needled varieties. Typical applications for perforated films include fresh products such as vegetables, bread, cakes, and other foods. Micro- and macro-perforated packaging films ensure longer freshness and a better microclimate inside the package: They enable effective ventilation and reduce condensation—while maintaining a consistently high level of protection. Whether during transport or on the sales floor, OPP and BOPP films offer an excellent way to safely and effectively package and protect food and other products.

Forms of Delivery and Processing Options

OPP and BOPP filmsfilms are available as flat film or semi-tubular film, on rolls with a choice of 76-mm or 152-mm cores. Flat film is ideal for making bags or for packaging flat items, while semi-tubular film is particularly suitable for items with larger diameters or irregular shapes. The film rolls are supplied in custom lengths, precisely tailored to the capabilities of the respective packaging machine.

These films can be processed on sleeving machines, flow-pack machines, and seal-seam machines. BOPP-films s are also commonly used on angle-seal machines.

Additional Features

Our BOPP/OPPfilms s can be equipped with a wide range of additional features depending on your requirements:

• Sealability: can be sealed on one side or both sides
• Pre-print treatment: interior or exterior, for optimal printability
• Printing: Up to 8 colors using flexographic printing for company logos and product information
• Perforation: micro-perforated, macro-perforated, or hot-needled—for optimal ventilation of fresh products
• Anti-fog equipment: Anti-fog function for the fresh produce and food sectors
• Barrier properties: Protection against flavors, mineral oil, oxygen, and other gases (EVOH high barrier)
• Modified sliding properties: Available upon request for specific processing requirements

Applications: Many industries benefit from OPP and BOPP film

The versatility of OPP and BOPP film is evident in the wide range of applications for which it can be used. In the food industry, the film stands out for its reliable protection combined with sales-promoting presentation. Whether it’s bread and baked goods, fruits and vegetables, sausage and meat products, or cheese—the high transparency makes the food product visible and appetizing at the point of sale. Flow-pack packaging is particularly popular, both for single-item and multi-item units. Perforated versions ensure the necessary ventilation and extend the freshness of the packaged food.

About Our Food Packaging

In the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, protection against moisture and contamination plays a key role. BOPP film ensures that sensitive products remain securely sealed and arrive at the customer undamaged. The chemical resistance of the base material, polypropylene, offers an additional benefit here, as the retail packaging provides reliable protection even when it comes into contact with various substances.

In the electronics industry, the film protects sensitive components and devices from dust, dirt, and moisture, while its transparency allows for easy identification of the packaged products. BOPP/OPP film is also in demand for furniture packaging and in general industrial applications: The ease of placing products into the packaging and the fast, smooth machine processing make the packaging process particularly time-saving and efficient.

About Our Electronic Films

An Overview of Our OPP-BOPPfilms Line

Depending on the requirements, the OPP-BOPP-films s from Schlichter GmbH are equipped with additional features and properties. All films are available in various thicknesses and with additional features.

The Right BOPP/OPP Film for Your Needs

With our comprehensive range of BOPPfilms in a variety of thicknesses and styles, we have the right film for every application and need. As a system provider of packaging machines and films , we offer you not only the right packaging film, but also the corresponding packaging machines and excellent service—all from a single source.

Thanks to our in-house film packaging operations and large inventory, we can deliver on short notice even during supply shortages—and when speed is of the essence, express delivery is also available. Custom packaging according to customer requests is, of course, standard.

Get in touch—our team of experts will provide you with comprehensive, personalized advice tailored specifically to your needs. Together, we’ll find the optimal packaging solution for your products.