Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-02-07 Origin: Site
Packaging industrial chemicals requires a level of precision that goes far beyond standard retail needs. When you are dealing with volatile, corrosive, or moisture-sensitive substances, the integrity of your containment is the only thing standing between a safe shipment and a costly environmental hazard.
The thickness of your packaging material determines its puncture resistance, barrier strength, and overall durability. Yet, many manufacturers struggle to find the "Goldilocks" zone—too thin, and you risk leaks; too thick, and you waste money on unnecessary material costs. This guide answers the most pressing questions about selecting the optimal gauge for your chemical products.
The primary role of chemical foil packaging is isolation. Unlike general goods, chemicals often react with the environment. If the packaging layer is too thin, microscopic pinholes can form during handling or transit, compromising the barrier.
Thickness directly correlates to the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) and Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR). For hygroscopic chemicals (those that absorb moisture from the air), a thicker aluminium layer is essential to prevent the product from clumping or degrading. Furthermore, a robust thickness provides necessary physical protection against abrasion during shipping, ensuring that the package arrives intact.
Thickness is typically measured in microns or mils. The ideal specification depends heavily on the physical state of the chemical—whether it is a fine powder, a granule, or a liquid.
Below is a general guideline for selecting thickness based on chemical type:
Chemical State |
Recommended Thickness (Microns) |
Primary Concern |
Packaging Type |
Fine Powders |
100 - 130 microns |
Moisture absorption, Clumping |
High-barrier Aluminium Pouch |
Granules/Solids |
120 - 150 microns |
Puncture resistance (sharp edges) |
Reinforced Multi-layer Laminate |
Liquids/Pastes |
150 - 200+ microns |
Leakage, Burst strength |
Heavy-duty Spout Bags |
Agrochemicals |
130 - 160 microns |
UV protection, Chemical stability |
Aluminium pouch packaging |
The aluminium foil seal is arguably the most critical component of the packaging structure. It acts as the absolute barrier against light, oxygen, and bacteria.
When choosing thickness, you must consider the "burst strength" required. If your chemicals release gas or require vacuum sealing, the foil layer must be thick enough to withstand pressure changes without delaminating. A standard metallized film (VMPET) might suffice for inert products, but active chemicals typically require a pure aluminium (AL) layer of at least 7 to 9 microns within the laminate structure to ensure zero permeability.
Over-engineering your packaging drives up unit costs, which can hurt your bottom line in high-volume production. To find the balance, conduct drop tests and accelerated aging tests.
If you are shipping non-hazardous, solid fertilizers, you might save money by utilizing a slightly thinner aluminium pouch packaging structure (around 100-110 microns). However, for aggressive solvents or high-value pharmaceutical intermediates, the cost of product loss far outweighs the savings on packaging material. In these cases, upgrading to a 150-micron structure is a necessary investment in insurance.
Calculating the precise laminate structure—balancing the PET outer layer, the Aluminium barrier, and the PE inner sealing layer—is complex. It often requires the input of specialized engineers who understand both polymer science and chemical logistics.
Manufacturers like Zhongshan Maixin Packing Technology, Ltd. specialize in tailoring these specifications to unique industrial needs. They can adjust the micron thickness of specific layers to reinforce the bag where it’s needed most, ensuring compliance with safety standards without unnecessary waste.
Selecting the right packaging thickness is not a guessing game. It is a calculated decision based on the chemical's aggressiveness, its physical form, and the rigors of your supply chain. By matching your specifications to the unique demands of your product, you ensure safety, maintain product efficacy, and protect your brand's reputation.
If you are unsure about the specific requirements for your product, reach out to a packaging specialist today to conduct a material audit and find the perfect fit for your needs.
