blisterpack

A blister pack is a type of pre-formed packaging in which a molded plastic cavity, or blister, is sealed to a backing material to enclose a product. The cavity is typically formed by thermoforming and the backing can be a printed paperboard card, a foil, or a clear plastic film. The term “blister” refers to the raised pocket that holds the item inside.

Materials and construction: Common blister materials for the cavity include thermoformed plastics such as PVC, PET, or polystyrene. The seal is usually a lidding material made from aluminium foil laminates or clear plastic films. Blister packs may be attached to a backing card (blister card) for retail display, or used as standalone units with a film or foil seal. Some designs use multiple cavities or compartments in a single pack for unit-dose dispensing.

Applications and advantages: Blister packs are widely used in pharmaceutical packaging to hold individual pills or tablets, providing unit-dose protection and Tamper-evidence. They are also common for small consumer goods such as batteries, hardware components, toys, and electronics parts. Benefits include product visibility, lightweight protection, compact form, and the ability to dispense products in defined quantities.

Limitations and environmental considerations: The plastic content, especially PVC-based blisters, can complicate recycling and may require specialized facilities. Environmental concerns have driven the development of alternative materials and mono-material solutions. Recyclability varies by material, packaging design, and local recycling programs, and some markets impose regulatory requirements related to tamper evidence or child resistance.