Labels are an essential part of packaging design and product identification that play a significant role in providing information and attracting and retaining customers’ attention. Their visual elements — color, font, graphics, and shape — are crucial in creating a memorable brand image and making a product stand out. Additionally, the type of material used to print the label affects its durability and overall appearance.
Polypropylene and polyester are two of the most widely utilized materials in label production due to their distinct features, advantages, and versatile applications. This article will dive into their characteristics to help you choose the best labeling material for your product.
What’s the Best Labeling Material for Your Project?
Labels enhance a product’s aesthetic appeal and convey essential information, such as branding, product facts, and warnings. Aside from their visual impact, they are created to withstand a range of storage, temperature, and light conditions while maintaining legibility and functionality.
Polypropylene Labels
Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (PP) is a type of plastic film known for its moisture resistance and cost-effectiveness. It is often used for products with a short shelf life and requires protection from moisture and humidity. It is also an excellent alternative for quickly degrading materials such as food packaging.
Another advantage of PP is its versatility. It can be used for various applications, from food packaging to labeling products in multiple industries. The film can also be printed using different techniques, allowing for the production of high-quality labels. Polypropylene material can be printed as a thermal transfer ribbon or as direct thermal printing.
When exposed to sunshine, polypropylene has a shorter lifespan than other materials. As a result, the material can degrade rapidly, leading to fading and other problems that can severely affect the appearance of your packaging. It is also incompatible with digital printing as it can cause streaks and produce a low-quality output.
Polyester Labels
Also known as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester is suitable for durable applications. It is a semi-rigid, lightweight material that comes in various adhesives. Moreover, it has excellent moisture barrier properties.
Polyester labels can last as long as 10 years due to their high durability. They can also endure temperatures as high as 300 °F and as low as -40 °F. In addition, they are resistant to various caustic and acidic agents, making them perfect for printing complicated graphics.
One of the main drawbacks of polyester is its high cost compared to other labeling materials, such as vinyl and polypropylene. It is also not ideal for labeling objects with uneven surfaces or narrow circumferences because it tends to be stiff and rigid.
High-Quality Custom Labels From Technicode
Polyester is the preferred labeling material for products frequently exposed to outdoor or extreme environments. On the other hand, polypropylene is ideal for indoor use and labeling requirements that demand a stronger option than paper.
For more than 25 years, Technicode has been providing customized label solutions for thermal transfer and direct printing! Our offerings include multiple color labels in six distinctive hues, tailored conversions, and top-quality products that meet industry standards.
Contact us today to learn more about our products or request a quote to start your labeling project with us!