Polypropylene vs Polyethylene vs Vinyl

Here at ATLAS for Industry we are often asked about choosing between a range of synthetic label materials. One might say that all synthetic material are ‘Cousins’ and therefore similar, correct, but different applications tend to favour certain products. So let’s look at the product and what it’s favoured for.

Polypropylene:

Available in both clear and gloss white, matt white and silver.

White PP is a commonly used rigid label stock, and suitable for most applications. One big difference is PP’s light reflecting properties, similar to that of metal, so when you take silver PP and apply inks, you can get a vibrant display of Gold/Copper/RoseGold effects, all favoured by luxury brands. Widely used in Flexo printing.

Polyethylene:

A milky white synthetic film compare to the ‘greyish white of PP’, with light and flexible properties. PE can stretch in all directions, but will tear quite easily. Often used on plastic household containers that are squeezed, eg washing up liquid. Again, widely used in Flexo printing.

Vinyl:

Seldom if ever, used in Flexo Printing, but widely used in wide format label printing machines, eg Roland for outdoor labels / decals / signs. Also available in wide width rolls in Clear / Gloss white / Matt white.

Still unsure of which product is best suited to your requirements ?

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