Plastics continue to increase in importance as a packaging material, replacing such materials as glass, metal, wood, and paper. A variety of polymers are used to satisfy particular packaging needs, and many different plastics processing methods are employed to produce those packaging materials.

Understanding Plastics Packaging Technology provides an overview of plastics packaging technology in straightforward language. It describes package function, a variety of important polymers and processing techniques used in packaging, fabrication processes, cushioning, and decorating. It also discusses barrier properties, migration, shelf life, and environmental issues.

From the Preface: “[This book] is designed to serve as a guide for those wishing to learn about plastics packaging, how it is selected, how it is formed, etc...I hope the reader will find this a valuable introduction to the vast field of plastics in packaging and will emerge not only with a greater understanding of this exciting field, but with a desire to go on and learn more about the many uses of plastics, and about packaging as a whole...”

Target Audience: Students; those newly involved in sales, production, or use of plastics packaging; policy makers; and any other reader interested in obtaining a broad understanding of plastics packaging.

Table of Contents:

Introduction to Plastics Packaging

Major Packaging Polymers

Extrusion, Films, and Flexible Packaging

Thermoformed Packages

Molded Packages

Foams, Other Cushioning Materials, and Distribution Packaging

Printing, Labeling, and Pigmenting

Barrier, Migration and Compatability

Environmental Considerations

Index