BOPP
Also known as: BOPP film, biaxially oriented polypropylene, OPP film, oriented polypropylene film
BOPP is polypropylene film stretched in two directions; it is stiff, glossy, a good moisture barrier and a common printable outer layer in flexible packaging.
BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) is polypropylene film stretched in both the machine and transverse directions. The orientation makes it stiff, glossy, clear and a good moisture barrier, which is why it is one of the most widely used films in flexible packaging.
Where it is used
In laminated pouches BOPP is usually the printed outer layer. It holds ink well, gives the pack a crisp stand and looks bright on shelf. Snacks, biscuits, confectionery and nuts benefit from its low water vapour transmission.
Its oxygen barrier on its own is modest, so for coffee or long shelf-life products it is combined with metallised film, aluminium foil or an EVOH layer through lamination.
Variants
- Clear BOPP for windows and reverse printing
- White or pearlised BOPP for an opaque base
- Matte BOPP for a soft, low-gloss finish
- Metallised and heat-sealable grades
Things to keep in mind
BOPP is not suited to retort temperatures, and once a tear starts it propagates easily, so heavy products often need a tougher PE or OPA layer. Paired with a CPP sealant, it can form an all-PP mono-material structure that is easier to recycle. Typical gauges in flexible packaging are roughly 15–40 microns.
Frequently asked
Is BOPP the same as OPP?
In packaging the terms are generally used interchangeably. Oriented polypropylene films used for pouches are almost always biaxially oriented.
Is BOPP recyclable?
BOPP is a polypropylene (code 5) material. It is easiest to recycle when the whole pack is PP-based, for example BOPP laminated to CPP, rather than combined with PET or foil.
Related terms
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