The Evolution of Bubble Wrap Packaging
By definition, bubble wrap is a “ transparent plastic material used for packing fragile items. Regularly spaced, protruding air-filled hemispheres (bubbles) provide cushioning for fragile items.”
But to everyone else, it is the air bubble-filled plastic that comes with your packaging and the occasional pass time for you or even your kids when you pop those air bubbles for a relaxing kind of fun, funny enough bubble wrap has been proven to be a great stress reliever too.
Now if you are in the packaging industry bubble wrap is an old-time favorite in securing products and ensuring that packages reach your customers in intact condition.
What is it about this specially made bubble-filled plastic that makes it so reliable and usable for many years in the packaging industry? Bubble wrap has been in existence and in use for over half a century, why is this?
In this article, we will be looking at the history of this packaging phenomenon and its evolution over the years.
The Creation Of Bubble Wrap
Bubble Wrap was originally invented in 1957 by two engineers, namely Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes. Believe it or not, they used two shower curtains which they sealed together to create air bubbles. Initially, this invention was meant to be sold as wallpaper. This idea proved to be unsuccessful and thus they had to go back to the drawing board in an attempt to figure out what they could use this invention for.
It wasn't until 1961 and after multiple failed ideas that they decided to use it in packaging and found tremendous success. Bubble wrap would revolutionise the packaging industry. Bubble wrap was first used as protective packaging for IBM as they needed protective packaging for their then computer model that needed to be safe when in transit.
Types of Bubble Wrap
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General Purpose Bubble Wrap
General Purpose Grade Bubble is often used as an effective and economical packaging solution for wrapping products and cushioning them from damage. The wrap rolls can be easily divided according to your convenience. General Wrap comes in two categories—regular and heavy-duty, available in 10mm and 20mm thickness respectively.
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Metalised Foil Bubble Wrap
Metalised Bubble Wrap, also known as ‘foil bubble wrap’, is made of bubble wrap sheets that are then laminated with foil to create temperature-controlled packaging. The thermal quality regulates the temperature of the products inside and prevents fragile or sensitive goods from being damaged. This lightweight and moisture-resistant wrap is used for packaging exotic food items, documents, paintings, etc.
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Kraft Paper Backed Bubble Wrap
Kraft Backed Bubble is covered with strong kraft paper mainly designed for packaging heavy items such as furniture. It is most often used in the furniture manufacturing industry and by removalists, Kraft Backed Bubble is designed to be tough and has the ability to withstand the turbulence of transportation and shipment. This wrap also comes in handy for protecting floor surfaces from scratches caused by the movement of heavy furniture.
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Foam Backed Bubble Wrap
Foam Backed Bubble Wrap is perfect for extra protection of goods. It is laminated with foam on one side and is designed to protect your fragile items from damage while also keeping the surface dry and spotless.
Bubble Wrap has been used for generations and has proven to be very effective and reliable when it comes to the protection of goods and products. For information on the purchase of bubble wrap visit our website to view and buy from our catalog
Reference
https://www.omnigroup.com.au/types-and-applications-of-bubble-wrap/
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/accidental-invention-bubble-wrap-180971325/