• Bubble Wrap®

    Updated 6/04/10 PAB: MMSS 02-08-10 v0

    Alternate names
    None reported

    Characteristics

    Polyethylene, polyvinylidene chloride, or polyvinyl chloride films sandwiched to create compartments of various sizes into which air is injected. Inexpensive and tear resistant, but bubbles will deflate and plastic may degrade in a fairly short time. Some versions - Aircap®, Polycap® have an additional layer of nylon designed to prolong the life of the bubble. Available in versions that stick to themselves, and where flat film layers sandwich compartments on both sides.

    Forms/Sizes
    Rolls up to 72” wide. Bubble sizes 1/4” to 2“ diameter; typically 3/16”, 5/16” and ½”. Perforations optional ( e.g. every 12”).

    Illustrations



    Applications
    A traditional soft packing material, often used to pack paintings or in conjunction with tissue to pack 3-D objects. Gauge bubble size to object weight and size. Objects wrapped with bubbles faced in can be left with distinctive surface marks echoing the bubble pattern, especially if no interim layer is used. Bubbles faced out are more prone to breakage. Used appropriately it is a valuable short-term material. Used inappropriately it can create the illusion of protection. Bubbles have a tendency to break exactly where protection is required (corners/projections). This can be mitigated by using two layers face to face. Use better grades to extend life.

    Sources
    Uline
    Masterpak
    Talas
    Metal Edge
    Gaylord
    University Products
    Ashley Distributors
    C and H Distributors
    Rand Materials Handling Equipment
    Grainger Industrial Supply
    Absolute Packaging