Page 41 - Demo

BLISTER PACKAGINGBlister packaging combines a plastic cavity or bubble, called a %u201cblister,%u201d with a paper or board backing, creating a sealed package commonly used for retail products like electronics, toys, and pharmaceuticals. Here%u2019s an overview of the main types of blister packaging that use board or paper with plastic:Face-Seal Blister PackagingDescription: This type of blister pack has a plastic cavity moulded to hold the product, which is then heat-sealed onto a paperboard card. The plastic does not cover the entire surface of the card; rather, it is only sealed where it contacts the board around the edges.Advantages: Offers a clear view of the product while keeping production costs low. It%u2019s good for lightweight items and allows customers to see the product directly.Disadvantages: The product can sometimes be removed more easily, and the plastic component may be smaller, providing less protection for some items.Full-Face Blister PackagingDescription: Here, the plastic blister extends to cover the entire front surface of the paperboard backing, which provides extra durability and protection. The blister is sealed to the board all around, making it more secure than face-seal blisters.Advantages: Provides a more robust seal and greater protection for heavier or more fragile products. It also allows more design space on the front of the package.Disadvantages: Generally costs more than face-seal blisters due to the larger plastic surface area.Trapped Blister PackagingDescription: In this type, the plastic blister is sandwiched between two layers of paperboard, usually with a window in the front layer to allow the product to be visible. This approach hides the plastic edges and secures the blister between the paperboard layers.Advantages: Offers a more premium look, with a mostly paperboard appearance, which can appeal to ecoconscious consumers. It also provides stronger protection and is harder to tamper with.Disadvantages: Production is more complex and costly, requiring two layers of board. It also uses more material, potentially increasing environmental impact.Slide Blister PackagingDescription: This packaging includes a plastic blister with an open back that allows a paperboard card to slide in and out, trapping the product inside. The card can contain product information and branding.Advantages: Allows easy opening and resealing, making it useful for products that may be returned to the packaging. It%u2019s also convenient for displaying instructions or promotions on the card.Disadvantages: Not as tamper-resistant as sealed options, as the backing card can be removed and replaced. The product is only protected by the blister and can potentially fall out if mishandled.Clamshell Blister Packaging (Paper-Plastic Hybrid)Description: Often considered a type of blister pack, a clamshell uses two moulded plastic shells that enclose the product completely. Sometimes, it incorporates a paperboard insert between the two plastic shells.Advantages: Provides excellent security, often with a %u201ctamper-evident%u201d seal. The use of a paperboard insert allows for more information and branding while still maintaining visibility of the product.Disadvantages: Typically, more expensive and can be difficult to open without tools. Uses a larger amount of plastic, although some versions now use recyclable materials or paper-plastic hybrids.Paperboard Blister Packs with Biodegradable PlasticDescription: This emerging type of blister packaging uses biodegradable or compostable plastics, like PLA (polylactic acid), sealed to a paperboard backing. This approach minimises plastic content while providing a similar appearance and function to traditional blister packs.Advantages: Eco-friendly and often compostable or recyclable, which appeals to environmentally conscious consumers and aligns with sustainability initiatives.Disadvantages: Limited availability and often higher material costs. These packs may be less durable and could have a reduced shelf life due to biodegradable materials.41