Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Bubble wrap

Bubble wrap is a flexible, translucent plastic sheeting featuring a series of uniformly spaced, air-filled hemispherical bubbles arranged in a honeycomb pattern, designed primarily to provide cushioning and shock absorption for protecting fragile items during shipping and storage. It is manufactured from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) resin, which is heated, extruded into thin films, and then sealed with air injected between two layers to form the characteristic bubbles. Available in various bubble sizes, thicknesses, and formats such as rolls, sheets, and pouches, bubble wrap is lightweight, recyclable, and cost-effective, making it a staple in the packaging industry. Invented in 1957 by American engineer Alfred W. Fielding and Swiss inventor Marc Chavannes in Hawthorne, New Jersey, Bubble Wrap® originated as an experimental textured wallpaper intended to appeal to the Beat generation's aesthetic preferences for embossed surfaces. The duo created it by heat-sealing two layers of plastic shower curtain material to trap air pockets, but the product failed commercially in that application and was briefly tested as greenhouse insulation before finding its true purpose. In 1960, Fielding and Chavannes founded the Sealed Air Corporation to commercialize the invention, securing multiple U.S. patents, including one in 1964 for the lamination and embossing process (U.S. Pat. No. 3,142,599). Its adoption as a packaging material accelerated in 1961 when IBM used it to safeguard shipments of its new 1401 mainframe computer, marking the beginning of widespread industry use. Since its repurposing, bubble wrap has revolutionized protective packaging by reducing product damage, shipping weight, and material costs compared to alternatives like paper or foam. Under the leadership of CEO T.J. Dermot Dunphy starting in 1971, Sealed Air's sales of the product grew from $5 million to over $3 billion by 2000, underscoring its economic impact. Today, it serves not only e-commerce and logistics but also niche applications like medical cushioning and anti-slip surfaces, while ongoing innovations focus on sustainability, such as recyclable and biodegradable variants. The material's tactile appeal—famously satisfying to pop—has also inspired cultural phenomena, including an annual Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day on the last Monday of January.

History

Invention

Bubble wrap was invented in 1957 by Swiss chemical engineer Marc Chavannes and American mechanical engineer Alfred W. Fielding, who were collaborating in a garage in Hawthorne, New Jersey to develop an innovative textured plastic wallpaper. Their goal was to create a modern, three-dimensional wall covering that would appeal to mid-century design trends, featuring air-filled patterns for aesthetic and insulating qualities. The breakthrough came from an initial experiment using household materials: Chavannes and Fielding passed two layers of plastic shower curtain through a heat-sealing machine, intending to trap air between them to form the desired texture. This simple process unexpectedly produced a sheet of plastic with uniform air pockets, though the irregular bubbles and lack of adhesion to walls made it unsuitable as wallpaper. Undeterred, they explored other household applications, such as greenhouse insulation, where the air-trapping properties could provide thermal benefits, but these efforts also fell short of commercial viability. Prototyping challenges persisted as the duo refined the concept, particularly in achieving consistent bubble formation without manual irregularities. They developed a more sophisticated method involving heated rollers: one layer of plastic film was softened and embossed with projections on a molding roller to create precise depressions, while a second heated layer was fused to it under pressure, hermetically sealing discrete air pockets for cushioning. This innovation addressed early limitations by producing durable, uniform sheets from thermoplastic materials like polyethylene. In 1959, they filed a patent for this "method for making laminated cushioning material," which was granted in 1964 as U.S. Patent No. 3,142,599.

Commercialization and Adoption

In 1960, engineers Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes founded the Sealed Air Corporation in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, to commercialize their invention of air-filled plastic cushioning, initially branded as AirCap and later Bubble Wrap. The company raised $85,000 through an initial public offering to support development and marketing efforts. Despite early marketing as textured wallpaper, which failed to gain consumer traction, Sealed Air pivoted to industrial applications after a salesman demonstrated the material's protective qualities. In 1961, IBM adopted Bubble Wrap as packaging for its newly introduced 1401 computer, using it to safeguard delicate components during shipping and marking the product's first major commercial success. This endorsement highlighted its superior cushioning over alternatives like foam or paper, prompting broader adoption in electronics and fragile goods transport. The pivotal U.S. Patent No. 3,142,599, granted on July 28, 1964, for the "Method for Making Laminated Cushioning Material," protected the embossing and laminating process that created the sealed air bubbles, enabling Sealed Air to license the technology and prevent widespread imitation. By the late 1960s, improvements addressed initial issues like air leakage through a specialized coating, solidifying its reliability. During the 1960s and 1970s, Bubble Wrap experienced rapid growth as a standard protective material for shipping electronics, appliances, and mail-order goods, aligning with the rise of consumer electronics and catalog sales. Sealed Air's sales reached $4 million by 1969, capturing nearly the entire market due to its proprietary status, and climbed to $13.6 million by 1973, with Bubble Wrap accounting for about 60% of revenue. Under new CEO T.J. Dermot Dunphy from 1971, the company expanded internationally and diversified, establishing Sealed Air as a dominant force in protective packaging.

Manufacturing

Materials

Bubble wrap is primarily composed of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a thermoplastic polymer produced through the high-pressure polymerization of ethylene monomers derived from petroleum sources. This material forms the base film that is extruded and shaped into the product's distinctive air pockets, providing flexibility, durability, and cushioning properties essential for protective packaging. In many production formulations, LDPE is blended with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), another ethylene-based copolymer, to enhance tensile strength, puncture resistance, and overall film integrity while maintaining the necessary pliability. Increasingly, up to 50% recycled LDPE is blended into formulations to promote sustainability, as adopted by major producers since 2020. The thermoplastic nature of these polyethylenes allows the material to soften when heated and solidify upon cooling, enabling precise molding into bubbles without degradation or loss of structural performance. Various additives are incorporated into the polyethylene resin to tailor the material for specialized uses. UV stabilizers, such as hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), are added to versions designed for outdoor or greenhouse applications, protecting the film from ultraviolet-induced breakdown and extending its service life under prolonged sun exposure. Antistatic agents, often glycerol monostearate or ethoxylated amines, are included in formulations for electronics packaging to dissipate static electricity and prevent damage to sensitive components. The polyethylene sheets used in bubble wrap typically have a thickness of 0.025 to 0.075 mm, balancing lightweight construction with sufficient robustness for impact absorption. Bubble diameters commonly range from 6 to 32 mm, with smaller sizes offering finer protection for delicate items and larger ones providing greater void fill and cushioning capacity.

Production Process

The production of bubble wrap begins with the extrusion of polyethylene resin into continuous thin films. Raw low-density polyethylene (LDPE) pellets are melted in an extruder and forced through a flat die to form two separate sheets of plastic film, typically 0.025 to 0.075 mm thick, which serve as the base and top layers. Next, one of the extruded sheets is passed over a perforated roller equipped with hemispherical cavities, where a vacuum is applied to draw the softened plastic into the molds, creating uniform air-filled bubbles. This bubble-forming sheet is then heated to maintain pliability, and the second flat sheet is laminated onto it under controlled heat and pressure, sealing the bubbles and trapping air within each hemisphere to provide cushioning. The combined sheets are cooled rapidly using chill rolls or air cooling to solidify the structure and ensure bubble integrity. The material is then cut into desired widths, perforated for easy tearing if needed, and wound into large rolls or slit into sheets for distribution. Quality checks throughout involve inspecting for defects such as uneven bubbles or leaks, with barrier formulations designed to retain over 90% of air under pressure for sustained protection. Modern production lines are highly automated, incorporating multi-screw extruders and inline monitoring systems to achieve speeds of up to 200 feet per minute. Variations for colored bubble wrap are achieved by adding pigments to the resin during extrusion, while printing can be applied post-lamination using flexographic methods for branding or customization.

Design and Properties

Physical Characteristics

Bubble wrap consists of a continuous sheet of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film with uniformly spaced, air-filled hemispherical bubbles sealed between two layers, creating a lightweight material typically 4 to 6 mils thick overall. The air-filled bubbles, ranging from 3/16 inch to 1 inch in height depending on grade, serve as the primary mechanism for cushioning, absorbing shocks and vibrations by compressing upon impact and distributing force across the surface. This design provides effective protection against impacts up to several foot-pounds, outperforming alternatives like lofted paper in shock absorption tests conducted by the manufacturer. The material's burst strength, which measures the pressure required to rupture individual bubbles, typically exceeds 3.1 psi for medium-sized bubbles and 5.0 psi for larger ones, allowing it to withstand moderate compressive forces during handling and transit without premature failure. Bubbles are engineered to retain air effectively, with patented barrier technology maintaining over 90% air retention and cushioning performance even after repeated drops from heights simulating shipping conditions. Bubble wrap exhibits high transparency, with the clear polyethylene construction enabling visibility of enclosed items for easy identification and inspection without unwrapping. Its inherent flexibility, derived from the LDPE formulation, allows the sheet to conform closely to irregular shapes and surfaces, enhancing wrap-around protection while remaining lightweight at approximately 40-60 grams per square meter. In terms of thermal properties, bubble wrap offers moderate insulation due to the trapped air pockets, achieving an R-value of about 1.0 to 1.1 per inch of thickness, which helps maintain temperature stability for sensitive goods during short-term storage or transport. The material also demonstrates durability through tear resistance, with Elmendorf tear strength values typically ranging from 13 N to 20 N depending on orientation and grade, ensuring it resists accidental ripping during use while allowing bubbles to pop only under excessive localized force exceeding normal handling pressures.

Variations and Customization

Bubble wrap is available in various sizes to accommodate different protection requirements, with small bubbles measuring approximately 3/16 inch in height suited for lightweight and delicate items such as glassware or electronics, providing sufficient cushioning without excessive bulk. Medium-sized bubbles, around 5/16 inch in height, serve as the standard option for general packaging needs, offering a balance of protection and material efficiency for medium-weight goods like books or small appliances. Larger bubbles, up to 1 inch in height, are designed for heavy-duty applications, delivering enhanced shock absorption for bulky or fragile heavy items such as furniture components or machinery parts. Coated variants enhance the material's performance for specific environments; foil-backed bubble wrap incorporates a reflective aluminum layer to provide thermal insulation by blocking radiant heat, commonly used in construction and HVAC applications to maintain temperature control. Nylon-coated versions add a tough outer layer that increases puncture resistance, making them ideal for heavy-duty shipping of sharp or abrasive items like tools and metal parts. Customization options include printed or colored bubble wrap, where branding logos or patterns are applied during manufacturing to support marketing efforts in e-commerce packaging, while colored tints—such as pink—distinguish antistatic formulations that dissipate static electricity to safely protect sensitive electronics from electrostatic discharge during transit. Composite forms combine bubble wrap with other materials for superior performance; lamination with foam creates a multi-layered cushion that amplifies impact resistance for high-value or irregularly shaped products, while paper lamination adds moisture absorption and printability, facilitating eco-conscious wrapping that conceals contents and enhances overall durability.

Primary Uses

Packaging Applications

Bubble wrap serves as a primary protective material in packaging for shipping and storage, particularly for safeguarding fragile goods against impacts, vibrations, and compression during transit. Its air-filled bubbles provide cushioning that absorbs shocks, making it ideal for wrapping items such as glassware, electronics, and artwork to prevent breakage and surface damage. For instance, individual wrapping of delicate objects like stemware or picture frames ensures they remain secure within boxes, with the bubbles conforming to irregular shapes for even protection. This application leverages the material's lightweight and flexible nature, allowing it to conform without adding excessive weight to shipments. In addition to direct wrapping, bubble wrap functions as void fill to immobilize products inside containers, filling empty spaces and preventing shifting that could lead to collisions during handling or transport. It can also be applied as a liner or wrap for pallets, providing a barrier against moisture, dust, and minor abrasions for stacked goods in warehouses or during bulk shipping. Specific techniques enhance its effectiveness; for high-value or extra-fragile items, double-wrapping—applying two layers of bubble wrap—offers reinforced cushioning to further minimize risk. For cylindrical objects like vases or rolled posters, bubble wrap tubing or continuous rolls can be cut and formed into protective sleeves, ensuring uniform coverage along the length. These methods have been shown to reduce damage risks in e-commerce shipments by up to 70%, lowering return rates and associated costs for businesses. Bubble wrap saw widespread adoption in the 1970s as shipping volumes grew, with further expansion driven by e-commerce platforms since the 1990s. In e-commerce, major retailers like Amazon incorporate it extensively for fulfilling orders of breakable consumer goods, where its efficiency in protecting diverse products contributes to streamlined operations; as of 2024, the e-commerce segment holds the largest market share. Moving services rely on it for residential relocations, using rolls to pad furniture edges and secure household items against jostling in trucks. Retail sectors, including electronics and home goods stores, employ bubble wrap for in-house packaging and outbound shipping to maintain product integrity, solidifying its role as a standard in protective logistics.

Industrial and Medical Uses

In industrial applications, bubble wrap serves as an effective thermal insulator for pipes, where its air-filled bubbles create a barrier that reduces heat loss and prevents freezing in cold weather conditions. Similarly, in greenhouses, double-layered bubble wrap with aluminum foil facing is recommended for insulating kneewalls and structures, providing an R-value of approximately 1-2 and potentially cutting heating costs compared to uninsulated setups. Bubble wrap also finds use in cushioning during transportation, including for sensitive components. In medical contexts, bubble wrap has been explored for pressure relief in treating bedsores, or decubitus ulcers, through applications like alternating-pressure mattress overlays that redistribute body weight to promote healing and prevent tissue damage. A related patent describes bubble packaging film integrated into devices for ulcer relief by providing cushioned support under pressure points. For orthopedic protection, it acts as temporary padding to safeguard casts and braces, offering lightweight cushioning that absorbs impacts without adhering to skin. In aerospace, bubble wrap, referred to as bubble pack, provides superior cushioning for delicate aircraft components during storage and shipping, protecting against impacts while allowing flexibility in packaging irregular shapes. In the automotive sector, it cushions sensitive electronics and parts like sensors during assembly and transit, reducing vibration-induced wear. Emerging applications include acoustic insulation, where the air pockets in bubble wrap absorb and diffuse sound waves, making it suitable for temporary soundproofing in windows or enclosures to lower noise transmission.

Cultural and Recreational Aspects

Amusement and Popping

Popping bubble wrap provides a satisfying sensory experience that many people find psychologically rewarding, often using it as a form of stress relief. A 1992 study conducted by researchers at the University of Miami's Touch Research Institute found that participants who popped air capsules in bubble wrap reported feeling more energized, less tired, and significantly calmer afterward, indicating its potential to reduce anxiety through tactile stimulation. This effect is attributed to the repetitive, low-effort action engaging the senses, similar to other fidget activities that promote relaxation. A 2012 survey commissioned by Sealed Air, the manufacturer of Bubble Wrap, revealed that just one minute of popping provides stress relief equivalent to a 33-minute massage, highlighting its quick-acting calming benefits. The mechanics of popping involve compressing the air-filled bubbles, which are sealed within two layers of plastic film. When sufficient force is applied—typically with a finger or thumb—the bubble deforms, increasing internal air pressure until the film ruptures, releasing the air with a distinctive sharp popping sound and a tactile burst sensation. This immediate feedback contributes to the addictive quality, as the action combines auditory, visual, and kinesthetic elements in a predictable manner. Since the early 2000s, the amusement value of bubble wrap popping has extended to digital formats, with virtual popping apps and online videos gaining widespread popularity. Mobile applications like "Bubble Wrap" on iOS and Android simulate the experience, allowing users to pop endless virtual bubbles with realistic sounds and visuals, serving as a portable stress reliever. On YouTube, ASMR-style popping videos have gained significant popularity, tapping into the satisfying repetition for relaxation and entertainment. For example, on December 31, 2024, children at the Hershey Story Museum in Pennsylvania stomped on bubble wrap to celebrate the new year, combining the material's popping sound with festive activities. Beyond direct popping, bubble wrap—particularly after bubbles are burst—lends itself to DIY crafts that incorporate its textured surface for creative play and art. Crafters often use popped sheets to create textured stamps for painting, where the flattened dimples add unique patterns to artwork, or as bases for sensory games like custom hopscotch mats. Educational resources highlight activities such as bubble wrap printing for children, fostering fine motor skills while repurposing the material into engaging, low-cost projects.

Pop Culture References

Bubble wrap has permeated popular media, often depicted for its comedic or protective qualities. In the 2000 film Dude, Where's My Car?, characters wear inflatable bubble wrap suits during a chaotic adventure, highlighting the material's humorous potential as makeshift armor. Sealed Air, the original manufacturer, has incorporated bubble wrap into promotional campaigns that celebrate its popping sound, such as the annual #KeepPopping initiative tied to Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, which encourages public engagement through social media challenges. The material's cultural footprint extends to dedicated events and record-breaking feats. Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, observed annually on the last Monday of January since 2001, originated from a promotional stunt by a radio station in Bloomington, Indiana, and has been embraced by Sealed Air to honor the invention's playful side. Guinness World Records has recognized various bubble wrap achievements, including the most people popping it simultaneously—2,681 participants achieved by the Denver Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, in 2015—underscoring its role in communal amusement. In artistic and digital contexts, bubble wrap symbolizes fragility, transience, and nostalgic simplicity. Artist Bradley Hart transforms the material into photorealistic paintings by injecting acrylic paints into individual bubbles, recreating works like portraits of historical figures and evoking themes of consumerism and pixelated modernity in contemporary society. His installations, such as those mimicking pointillism or pop art, position bubble wrap as a metaphor for disposable culture. Online, it inspires memes that tap into childhood nostalgia, often portraying the act of popping as a universal stress-reliever or relic of simpler times, as noted in cultural retrospectives on 1990s and 2000s artifacts. Celebrity involvement has further amplified its iconic status. In 2016, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates participated as a Secret Santa in Reddit's gift exchange, sending an elaborate package to recipient "Aerrix" that was overflowing with layers of bubble wrap, delighting fans with its extravagant packaging and sparking widespread media coverage of the whimsical gesture.

Alternatives and Sustainability

Traditional Alternatives

Before the invention of bubble wrap in 1957, excelsior, also known as wood wool, served as a primary cushioning material for fragile goods in packaging. This fine, curly shredded wood product, developed in the 1860s, provided lightweight void fill and shock absorption by conforming around items to prevent movement during transit. Companies like American Excelsior, founded in 1888, specialized in producing excelsior specifically for protective packaging applications. Its natural composition made it suitable for shipping delicate objects such as glassware and ceramics until the mid-20th century. Foam peanuts, made from polystyrene, emerged as a popular alternative in the 1960s, offering comparable cushioning to bubble wrap through their lightweight, interlocking structure that fills voids and absorbs impacts. Invented around 1960 by chemist Maurice Laverne Zweigle and commercialized by Dow Chemical in 1965, these expanded polystyrene beads quickly became a staple for e-commerce and industrial shipping. However, foam peanuts are more prone to generating static electricity, which can attract dust or damage sensitive electronics during handling. Foam sheets, a related variant, provide similar bulk cushioning but share the static issues and are less conformable for irregular shapes. Kraft paper and corrugated cardboard have long been used as void fillers and protective wraps, particularly for lighter or less fragile items. Kraft paper, invented in 1884 by chemist Carl F. Dahl using a sulfate pulping process, offers recyclable, flexible padding when crumpled, though it provides inferior protection against sharp impacts compared to air- or foam-based materials. Corrugated cardboard, patented for packaging in 1871, is often cut into inserts or sheets for void fill, leveraging its fluted structure for moderate shock resistance and recyclability, but it lacks the resilience of bubble wrap for high-impact scenarios. Air pillows, consisting of inflatable plastic pouches filled with air, represent another conventional substitute, prized for their space-efficient storage and customizable cushioning in shipping boxes. Developed in the 1980s as part of broader inflatable cushion systems, they require on-site inflation machinery, making them suitable for high-volume operations but less practical for small-scale use. These pouches conform to item contours upon inflation, providing effective void fill similar to bubble wrap, though their plastic construction demands specialized equipment for production and deployment.

Eco-Friendly Innovations

Recent innovations in eco-friendly bubble wrap alternatives focus on materials that minimize environmental impact while maintaining protective qualities. Biodegradable versions, developed since the 2010s, utilize plant-based starches or polylactic acid (PLA) derived from sources like corn. These products, such as eco-friendly bubble wrap offered by Stanley Packaging, decompose in industrial composting conditions within 90 to 180 days, breaking down into water, CO2, and biomass without leaving harmful residues. Advancements in recycled content have led to bubble wrap made from up to 90% post-consumer polyethylene, significantly lowering the demand for virgin plastic. For instance, certain rolls incorporate 90% recycled materials, reducing virgin plastic usage by a comparable margin and supporting circular economy principles by diverting waste from landfills. Grounded Packaging's LDPE bubble film, with 50% post-consumer recycled content, exemplifies how such innovations cut virgin material needs by half while preserving durability for shipping. Compostable air cushions represent another key development, crafted from renewable sources like corn starch or mushroom mycelium to replace traditional plastic fillers. Air cushion films extruded from corn and cassava starch fully biodegrade in composting environments, certified to ASTM D6400 standards for industrial compostability. Similarly, mycelium-based cushions, pioneered in applications like Dell's packaging since 2014, grow from fungal networks on agricultural waste and compost at home in about 45 days, offering shock absorption comparable to foam without petroleum derivatives. European Union regulations, including the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) that entered into force on February 12, 2025 (with most provisions applying from August 12, 2026), are accelerating adoption by mandating recyclable or reusable packaging and minimum recycled content in plastics (e.g., 30% by 2030), impacting conventional bubble wrap and promoting sustainable alternatives. This has driven market growth for green alternatives, with the paper bubble wrap segment projected to expand from approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 to USD 2.8 billion by 2032, reflecting increased demand for compostable and recycled options in e-commerce and logistics.

References

  1. [1]
    The Accidental Invention of Bubble Wrap - Smithsonian Magazine
    Jan 23, 2019 · In all, they were granted six patents for Bubble Wrap, most of which dealt with the process for embossing and laminating plastic and the ...
  2. [2]
    PE Bubble Wrap - Polymer Packaging
    Bubble Wrap Material: Polyethylene Bubble; Foil Bubble; 3rd Web Bubble; Metalized Bubble; Bubble with High Slip ...
  3. [3]
    Our Values - Sealed Air
    In 1957, Alfred W. Fielding and Marc Chavannes set out to create a new wall covering by laminating two plastic sheets with air bubbles in between. Although ...
  4. [4]
    Pop Sensation! Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day Has Stevens ...
    Jan 28, 2019 · '43 Hon. D.Eng. '86 created the material with Swiss inventor Marc Chavannes in a New Jersey machine shop in the late 1950s. Fielding even got ...
  5. [5]
    SEALED AIR SALUTES INNOVATION ON BUBBLE WRAP ...
    Jan 27, 2020 · Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes created bubble wrap by sealing air between plastic shower curtains, initially for wallpaper, but later used ...
  6. [6]
    The History of Bubble Wrap | Ernest Packaging Solutions
    Jan 14, 2025 · Bubble wrap wasn't invented for use in packaging. Let's look at the colorful history of this protective packaging rockstar.
  7. [7]
    US3142599A - Method for making laminated cushioning material
    Definitions. the invention more specifically concerns a new and improved method and apparatus for the lamination of plastic and other similar sheet materials ...
  8. [8]
    History of Sealed Air Corporation – FundingUniverse
    1960: Inventors of Bubble Wrap cushioning, originally called AirCap, found Sealed Air Corporation; $85,000 is raised through an initial public offering. · 1961: ...
  9. [9]
    Low density polyethylene (LDPE): A summary - Linseis
    Low density polyethylene, LDPE, is a thermoplastic polymer made from the monomer ethylene. It is a highly branched plastic.
  10. [10]
    Polyethylene Rolls, Rods, and Bubble Wrap - Atlas Foam Products
    Atlas Foam offers rolls of bubble wrap that can be perforated and non-perforated for easy tearing every 12”. Bubble wrap is made up of low-density polyethylene ...
  11. [11]
    Anti-Static Bubble Cushioning - Riverside Paper Co.
    Bubble cushioning is made from LLDPE resins providing higher puncture resistance, exceptional elongation and tensile strength. Our bubble wrapping is up to 46% ...
  12. [12]
    What is Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)? - Xometry
    Apr 29, 2022 · Low-density polyethylene is a type of thermoplastic in the polyethylene family. It's formed of long chains of ethylene molecules called monomers.
  13. [13]
    Bubblewrap Insulation for Greenhouses by Harrod Horticultural
    £1.95 In stock Rating 4.5 (121) Our 20mm greenhouse bubble insulation is UV stabilised, offers better light transmission, is double laminated for extra strength and better insulation.Missing: stabilizers | Show results with:stabilizers
  14. [14]
    Bubble Wrap - Excel Pac LLC - Air Bubble, Anti-Static, Biodegradable
    Produced using an additive in the resin that eliminates electrostatic discharges that are inherent in plastic cushioning materials. ECO-BUBBLE. After more than ...
  15. [15]
    Bubble Wrap Guide | Help & Guides - Kite Packaging
    Small bubble has a diameter of 10mm and a height of 4mm per bubble - large bubble has a diameter of 20mm and a height of 7mm.Missing: range | Show results with:range
  16. [16]
  17. [17]
    Manufacturing and Future Prospects Analysis of Bubble Wrap
    Sep 28, 2023 · A machine simultaneously extrudes two layers of film. One of these layers is formed into bubbles on a vacuum roller, then thermally laminated ...
  18. [18]
    From production to popping: how is bubble wrap made? - Woola
    Bubble wrap primarily consists of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a durable and adaptable plastic. More specifically, it's made from RIC4, a low-density ...
  19. [19]
    How Does a Bubble Film Extrusion Machine Work? - Ztech
    The raw materials used can be mixed with colorants and pigments during the extrusion process, resulting in bubble wrap with colored bubbles.
  20. [20]
    The Original BUBBLE WRAP ® Brand Cushioning - Sealed Air
    Available in a wide variety of film strengths, bubble heights, format and dispensing units, BUBBLE WRAP® can be used for all types of packaging needs including ...
  21. [21]
    High speed Bubble Film Machine - Hualiang (HLGP) Machinery
    Bubble Film Production Calculator ; Line speed. 60m/min ; Volt/Ph/Line/Hz. 380/3/4/50 ; Material. LDPE/LLDPE/HDPE/PP.
  22. [22]
    [PDF] Bubble Wrap IB® Medium-Regular
    Burst Strength. >3.1 psi. Sealed Air Method. Inflation @ 70ºC and 50% RH. Roll Data. Roll Width (Inflated). 300 mm. 600 mm. Roll Width (Un-inflated). 400 mm.Missing: physical | Show results with:physical
  23. [23]
    [PDF] Bubble Wrap IB Pouch Large Regular and Premium Technical Data ...
    Sealed Air & Trillian Design™ are trademarks of Sealed Air Corporation (US). ... Burst Strength. Cell Height. Creep. Altitude. Contact. Corrosivity. > 5.0 psi.
  24. [24]
    The Complete Guide to Bubble Wrap: Uses and Benefits
    Feb 29, 2024 · Its transparency makes identifying wrapped items easy, helping with inventory and inspection processes. Moreover, the air-filled bubbles provide ...
  25. [25]
    Applications of Bubble Wrap Packaging Films
    Bubble Wrap or air bubble packing is a transparent plastic packaging material that is mainly used to pack fragile or easily breakable items.
  26. [26]
    The Versatility and Benefits of Air Bubble Wrap - FlexiPack
    Sep 30, 2024 · This simple yet ingenious design creates a flexible and lightweight material that absorbs shocks and prevents damage to fragile items. Examples ...
  27. [27]
  28. [28]
    Stay Away from Foil-Faced Bubble Wrap - GreenBuildingAdvisor
    Mar 21, 2014 · Most brands of foil-faced bubble wrap are only 3/8 inch thick or less, and have an R-value of only 1.0 or 1.1. Since the product often costs ...
  29. [29]
  30. [30]
  31. [31]
    Bubble Wrap Sizes: Choosing the Right One for Your Needs
    Sep 28, 2015 · Standard bubble wrap sizes include 1/16" for small fragile items, 3/16" for light to medium items, 5/16" for significant cushioning, and 1/2" ...
  32. [32]
  33. [33]
    Bubble Foil Insulation - EcoFoil
    Free delivery 30-day returnsBubble Foil Reflective insulation reflects up to 96% of radiant heat and provides extra protection against buildup of frost and condensation.
  34. [34]
    Sealed Air Ready To Roll Bubble Packing Material 12 x 65
    In stock Rating 4.3 (3) Durable, nylon-coated bubbles help prevent air loss. Lightweight design ... Provides excellent puncture resistance for securing uniform or irr... Show ...
  35. [35]
    Bubble wrap: many differences – many possibilities!
    Sep 23, 2023 · It also offers protection against dust and moisture. Basically we differentiate between 2-layer and 3-layer as well as Small and large studded ...Missing: variations | Show results with:variations
  36. [36]
    Anti Static Bubble Rolls - PackagingSupplies.com
    3–7 day delivery 30-day returnsAnti-Static Bubble protects electronic components and parts from damaging static electricity. Weighs less than other types of void fill and packing materials ...Missing: printed | Show results with:printed
  37. [37]
    Laminated Bubble Wrap Rolls - SmartShield Packaging
    Available in both regular and anti-static material, laminated to your desired foam thickness. LAMENATED BUBBLE & CRAFT PAPER-1(1).Missing: enhanced | Show results with:enhanced
  38. [38]
    Bubble Wrap & Foam Cushioning - Trans-Consolidated Distributors
    Kraft paper laminated to 3/16”, 5/16” or 1/2” Durabubble. The kraft paper absorbs moisture, can be written on easily and can be used to conceal the product ...
  39. [39]
    How To Pack Fragile Items - This Old House
    The best packing material for fragile items is bubble wrap. You can use bubble wrap to protect electronics, glassware, and more before packing them.
  40. [40]
  41. [41]
    The Right Way to Pack with Bubble Wrap - JD Mini Storage
    3/16-inch bubble wrap is the most common bubble wrap size. Its versatility makes it good for small to medium-sized items needing a bit more cushioning. 5/16- ...
  42. [42]
    Bubble wrap tubes - Packaging and insulation - Foamland
    Bubble wrap tubes are the ideal product for bagging long objects. They speed up the storage process and saves costs while protecting against shock, friction ...
  43. [43]
    What Role Does Packaging Play in Reducing E-commerce Product ...
    Oct 4, 2025 · Bubble wrap reduces damage risks by up to 70%, while foam materials offer superior cushioning for delicate items. Different protective ...
  44. [44]
    BUBBLE WRAP® Brand Packaging Solutions from Sealed Air
    Our original bubble cushioning and inflatable packaging products are perfect solutions for any fulfillment application ranging from small e-commerce operations ...
  45. [45]
    Bubble Wrap – Fun Facts and Creative Uses - The UPS Store Canada
    Prevent damage when moving: When moving furniture, wrap sharp corners of tables and desks in bubble cushioning so they don't scratch your walls. Add comfort ...
  46. [46]
    Bubble Wrap Packaging Market Size to Surpass USD 4.45 Bn by 2034
    Jul 17, 2025 · The global bubble wrap packaging market size reached USD 3.22 billion in 2024 and is projected to surpass around USD 4.45 billion by 2034 ...Missing: 70-80% | Show results with:70-80%
  47. [47]
    Protect Your Pipes from the Winter Weather - Addison, Texas
    In a pinch, wrapping them with rags, newspapers, trash bags, plastic foam or even bubble wrap can add needed protection. Cover any vents around your home's ...
  48. [48]
    Greenhouse Energy Conservation Checklist
    Use 1” to 2” of insulation board or double bubble wrap with aluminum foil faces. Applying 2” of foam insulation to a 3' high kneewall on a 28' x 100 ...
  49. [49]
    What are the Uses of Bubble Wrap of Different Diameters?
    Sep 22, 2023 · Provides strong cushioning and protection, reducing the risk of damage from shock and vibration during transportation. What are the common uses ...
  50. [50]
    NCT03211910 | Sacral Savers: Study of Prevention and Enhanced ...
    This pilot study of 30 participants (15 control, 15 experimental) will test the safety and efficacy of using a bubble wrap mattress for pressure ulcer.Missing: relief | Show results with:relief
  51. [51]
    EP1242016A1 - Diaper to eliminate bed sores - Google Patents
    For example, U.S. Patent 4,962,769 to Garcia discloses the use of bubble packaging film for relieving decubitus ulcers or pressure ulcers. In this patent, a ...
  52. [52]
    [PDF] NASA-STD 8739.4 (PDF)
    Feb 8, 1998 · Bubble Pack: A laminated plastic sheet that is formed with patterned air entrapment. ("bubbles"). The bubbles provide excellent cushioning for ...
  53. [53]
    [PDF] AFPTEF Air Force Packaging Technology and Engineering Facility
    Sep 24, 2019 · A 1988 AFPEA investigation into corrosion of aircraft parts in storage revealed that the cushion material commonly known as “Bubble Wrap” was ...
  54. [54]
    How to Use Bubble Wrap for Insulation and Soundproofing
    Dec 16, 2024 · Sound Dampening: Bubble wrap can help reduce the transmission of sound by absorbing and diffusing sound waves. · Easy Application: Similar to its ...
  55. [55]
    Popping sealed air-capsules to reduce stress - PubMed
    Three of the four dependent measures were significantly changed; subjects reported feeling significantly more energized, less tired, and more calm after popping ...Missing: endorphins 2010 feedback
  56. [56]
    Bubble Wrap® "Pop" Poll Finds Nation More Likely To "Pop" Than ...
    Jan 30, 2012 · Survey Reveals That One Minute of Popping Bubble Wrap® Provides Stress Relief Equivalent to a 33 Minute Massage. News provided by. Sealed Air ...Missing: Harris | Show results with:Harris
  57. [57]
    Bubble Wrap FREE - App Store
    Rating 3.6 (1,292) · Free · iOSBUBBLE WRAP is the ultimate bubble wrap simulator for your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. If you enjoy popping bubbles, you owe it to yourself to get this app.
  58. [58]
    POPPING 1 MILLION BUBBLE WRAP BUBBLES! - YouTube
    Mar 21, 2018 · Subscribe: https://goo.gl/9EiXn2 Last Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64yjgI6Frdw * Get a Free Audiobook at: ...Missing: billions | Show results with:billions
  59. [59]
    20 Bubble Wrap Crafts and Activities for Kids
    Oct 11, 2019 · Here are 20 bubble wrap crafts and activities for kids. Combine sensory play, art and fun in these activities that babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can do.
  60. [60]
    50 Surprising Facts About Bubble Wrap - Mental Floss
    Jan 27, 2020 · In 2009, a study was conducted to determine Bubble Wrap's efficacy in heat retention in mannequins. It was found to be only 69 percent as ...
  61. [61]
    All Wrapped up in Bubble Wrap | Booty Call - YouTube
    Sep 3, 2022 · BOOTY CALL is NOW PLAYING and can be found to Rent or Buy here: https://bit.ly/3AoDuYP Jamie Foxx, Tommy Davidson, Vivica A. Fox and Tamala ...
  62. [62]
    Sealed Air Celebrates Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day
    Sealed Air Corporation proudly recognizes today as Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day and encourages fans to #KeepPopping.
  63. [63]
    NATIONAL BUBBLE WRAP DAY | Last Monday of January
    National Bubble Wrap Day (also known as National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day) on the last Monday in January recognizes a fascinating piece of invention.
  64. [64]
    Most people popping bubble wrap | Guinness World Records
    The most people popping bubble wrap simultaneously is 2,681, achieved by the Denver Area Council, Boy Scouts of America (USA) at the Peaceful Valley Scout ...Missing: sheet 2017
  65. [65]
    The Artist Making Masterpieces Out of Bubble Wrap - Hyperallergic
    Feb 1, 2024 · Bradley Hart injects the packaging material with acrylics to recreate classic art historical paintings, portraits, and more.
  66. [66]
    Pop art, by bubble wrap artist Bradley Hart - CBS News
    Aug 9, 2020 · He spends weeks turning the ubiquitous packing material into art, from portraits of Albert Einstein and Biggie Smalls, to scenes of Wall Street and Central ...<|separator|>
  67. [67]
    Luckiest Redditor ever got Bill Gates as her Secret Santa - Mashable
    "So then I get the box open," she wrote in a Reddit Gifts post, "and there's just bubble wrap EVERYWHERE, but under the first layer I see a picture...and my jaw ...
  68. [68]
    Excelsior and wood wool - Grammarist
    In North America, excelsior is the term for shaved wood fibers used for packing delicate items. Excelsior was the brand name for this 1860s invention, ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  69. [69]
    American Excelsior Company Celebrates 135 Years of Innovation
    Oct 2, 2023 · With a history dating back to 1888, American Excelsior Company has established a reputation for excellence, innovation, and sustainable ...
  70. [70]
  71. [71]
    Who Made That Packing Peanut? - The New York Times
    Apr 25, 2014 · In 1960, a research chemist named Maurice Laverne Zweigle packed a raw egg and a few handfuls of skinny, bendy, polystyrene noodles into a small cardboard box.
  72. [72]
    Static Electricity and Shipping Electronics in Styrofoam - Eng-Tips
    Sep 17, 2018 · Use formed cardboard or even recyclable bubble-wrap. Use cornstarch peanuts, use inflated bags, use anything but Styrofoam peanuts or worse ...
  73. [73]
    History of Kraft Carton Packaging | Joaquin Alberto
    The origins of Kraft paperboard go back to the end of the 19th century (1884), when Carl F. Dahl, a German chemist, developed a new paper production process ...
  74. [74]
    A Brief History of Corrugated Fiberboard - Fruit Growers Supply
    Jun 26, 2019 · Corrugated fiberboard has been in use for about 140 years. First patent was in 1856, first packaging patent in 1871, and first serious use in ...<|separator|>
  75. [75]
    Method and machine for the manufacture of air pillows
    The machine which is the first embodiment of this invention is for the manufacture of air-filled pillows which may be used as infill and cushioning in the ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  76. [76]
  77. [77]
    Compostable Packaging: The Pros and Cons in 2023 - Sifted
    Apr 19, 2023 · Compostable bubble wraps are made up of cornstarch polylactic acid polymers (PLA), and they can be completely degraded within 90 to 180 days. A ...
  78. [78]
    Large roll of 175 Feet of Recycled Small Plus Bubble wrap for ...
    30-day returnsEco Friendly Shipping Supplies: Our bubble wrap roll is the first of its kind, made from 90% post-consumer recycled content, making it an eco-friendly option ...
  79. [79]
    Post-consumer recycled (PCR) bubble film - Grounded Packaging
    Grounded's recycled LDPE bubble film is made from 50% recycled content. It is an excellent alternative to traditional padded plastic materials.
  80. [80]
    Bio air cushion film - Fillezy
    The product is made by extruding film made from corn and cassava starch and other compostable materials and is the only and right solutions to ensure we do not ...Missing: mushroom mycelium ASTM D6400
  81. [81]
    AIRplus Bio Home Compostable ストロパックジャパン | IPROS GMS
    Aug 1, 2023 · Air cushions made from organic film boast outstanding packaging ... - Complies with European standard (EN 13432) and American standard (ASTM D6400) ...
  82. [82]
    'Air' plastic and mushroom cushions - Dell packages the future - BBC
    Oct 10, 2014 · It's one of the sustainable packaging materials - including bamboo, wheat grass and even sponges grown from mushroom spores - the computer giant is now using ...
  83. [83]
    New EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation 2025! - KNAPP
    Apr 24, 2025 · Void fill used for deliveries must also meet these standards and conventional plastic cushioning must be replaced by eco-friendly alternatives.
  84. [84]
    Paper Bubble Wrap Market Report | Global Forecast From 2025 To ...
    The global paper bubble wrap market size was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 2.8 billion by 2032, ...