If you’ve searched for “polyester near me,” you’ll quickly encounter metallized PET. It’s one of the most powerful tools in packaging: a polyester film vacuum-coated with aluminum to deliver superior oxygen and light barrier while creating a premium metallic appearance. Metallized polyester film has become a backbone in coffee, snack, and decorative packaging—and in this guide, you’ll learn why, how, and when to specify it.
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850 South Buncombe Road
Greer – South carolina
Key Takeaways
- Metallization slashes oxygen transmission and blocks UV/light.
- Premium shelf presence combines metallic gloss with high print compatibility.
- Pairing metallized PET with PE/CPP sealants balances machinability and barrier.
- Gauge selection (48–92 ga typical) impacts barrier uniformity and stiffness.
How Metallization Works
Metallization involves depositing aluminum onto PET film inside a vacuum chamber. The result is a thin, uniform layer that transforms polyester into a barrier powerhouse.
- Barrier boost: Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) can drop from ~40 cc/m²/day (base PET) to <1.
- Light protection: The reflective layer blocks UV, protecting oils and aromas.
- Gloss & aesthetics: The metallic finish conveys premium branding without sacrificing machinability.
Learn more about technical details at Metallized.
Barrier vs. Clarity Tradeoffs
Metallized PET is opaque. If visual transparency is essential, consider PVDC-Coated PET instead. But for shelf life + branding, metallization is unmatched.
| Property | Base PET | Metallized PET | PVDC-Coated PET |
| Oxygen Barrier | Moderate | Excellent | Excellent |
| Moisture Barrier | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Light Barrier | Low | High | Medium |
| Clarity | High | Opaque | High |
Printing & Lamination Tips
- Use primers or tie coatings for ink/adhesive adhesion. Explore Coating.
- Corona treatment on the metallized side improves wettability but must be handled carefully.
- For laminations, pair metallized PET with PE, CPP, or nylon to balance barrier and toughness.
Common Use Cases
- Coffee pouches: Protect aroma, oils, and volatile compounds.
- Snack films: Oxygen and light protection for chips, nuts, and crackers.
- Powdered mixes: Moisture barrier for cocoa, spices, and protein powders.
- Decorative wraps: Metallic aesthetics for gifting and seasonal packaging.
- Industrial insulation wraps: Reflective properties in niche technical uses.
Check additional guidance at Barrier That Delivers.
Buyer’s Checklist
- Gauge: 48–92 ga typical for packaging; thicker for industrial.
- Barrier targets: Confirm OTR/WVTR spec.
- Appearance: Gloss, metallic uniformity, or matte metallization.
- Sealing needs: Define sealant layer (PE/CPP) and SIT (seal initiation temp).
- COF: Ensure correct coefficient of friction for line speeds.
- QA: Use Technical Datasheets for spec confirmation.
FAQs
Q1. What makes metallized polyester film different from foil?
It offers barrier performance with far less weight and higher machinability compared to aluminum foil.
Q2. Can metallized PET be printed directly?
Yes, with correct primers or coatings. See Coating.
Q3. Where can I source polyester near me that’s metallized for snacks or coffee?
Check Locations and reach out via Contact Us for U.S. stocking and quick-ship programs.
- Roll of metallized polyester film — Alt: “Reflective metallized polyester film roll on converting line”
- Coffee pouch with metallized barrier layer — Alt: “Premium metallized PET coffee bag packaging”
- Snack packaging trial run — Alt: “Snack films using metallized polyester film for barrier and branding”
- Barrier performance chart — Alt: “Comparison of metallized PET vs PVDC-coated PET barrier values”
Boost your brand and protect your products with Metallized PET films. For tailored laminations, visit Coating or explore barrier insights at Barrier That Delivers. If you’re searching for polyester near me, Pilcher Hamilton has the inventory and expertise to deliver.
Serving the USA from Greer – South carolina
850 South Buncombe Road
Greer – South carolina
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