Choosing PP over PET for lids: what’s the advantage?

Choosing PP over PET for lids: what’s the advantage?

What is PP Plastic?

PP is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic. It has no smell or taste, is non-toxic, and carries recycling code 5. In its unmodified form, it generally looks milky white to pale gray.
Similar to PET, PP is a ubiquitous plastic, yet its output and market demand have historically exceeded those of PET. Data show that global plastic production in 2022 was 400.3 million metric tons, with PP representing 18.9% — about 72 million metric tons. What characteristics drive such strong demand for this material?

What sets PP apart as the market leader

Polypropylene (PP) is the top-selling plastic resin worldwide, largely because of these advantages:

• Low mass: For the same volume, PP weighs less than PET thanks to its lower density.
  Heat tolerance: It endures temperatures up to about 110°C, surpassing PC and PET, and is the only plastic material suitable for use in microwave ovens.
• Chemical inertness: PP resists attack from chemicals commonly found in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
• Environmental profile: It can be recycled, though its recovery is generally more difficult than PET due to its inherent chemical and physical characteristics.
• Production flexibility: PP processes easily via blow molding, injection molding, and extrusion, supporting complex or irregular package designs.
• Cost advantage: With relatively low manufacturing costs and stable raw material pricing, PP is a preferred choice across many industries.

Versatile Applications of PP Plastic

Polypropylene (PP) finds use across an exceptionally wide range of products — furniture, medical equipment, auto components, everyday containers, and packaging for foods and cosmetics, to name a few. Below are three of the most typical ways PP shows up in products:
Household Items – 3.1
Thanks to its low weight and toughness, PP is a staple in home goods. It’s commonly formed into items like buckets, children’s toys, storage bins, and chairs.

Household Appliances – 3.2
PP’s ability to tolerate heat makes it suitable for appliance parts. You’ll see it in fan guards, washing machine tubs, TV rear housings, hair curler components, and similar pieces.

Packaging Containers – 3.5
In food applications, PP is used for drink bottles, tableware, lunch boxes, and other containers. In cosmetics, it serves in bottles, inserts for acrylic packages, as well as closures like caps and pumps.

That said, PP is not often the material of choice for bottles. Compared with alternatives, it falls short: it lacks the clarity of PET and doesn’t provide the squeeze-friendly softness of PE.

Conclusion

We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of PP’s potential. Beyond its well-known role in cosmetic packaging, polypropylene is widely used in many other sectors. Thanks to its standout heat tolerance, chemical resilience, and ease of molding, it fits an array of packaging requirements.
In a market where the right packaging can set you apart, we’re ready to partner with you to deliver tailored, forward-thinking solutions that align with your goals and raise the bar. Whether you’re exploring fresh cosmetic packaging concepts or more sustainable material options, our team can provide expert guidance and hands-on support.

Reach out anytime. We’re eager to discuss how we can elevate your brand’s packaging and help propel your business forward.