Multilayer Laminated Tubes Enhance Product Preservation

Plastic laminated tubes (PLT) are flexible packaging containers composed of multiple layers of different materials. Widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products, and daily chemicals, these tubes are designed to hold creams, emulsions, gels, or liquids. Their multi-layer construction protects contents from environmental factors, extends shelf life, and provides convenient, hygienic dispensing.

The history of tube packaging dates to the late 19th century when metal tubes made of tin or aluminum dominated the market. While durable with excellent barrier properties, these metal tubes were heavy, prone to deformation, and offered limited printing options.

The advent of plastics in the mid-20th century revolutionized tube packaging. Early plastic tubes used single materials like polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), but their barrier properties and print quality were inferior. The breakthrough came with laminated plastic tubes, combining different plastic films or metal foils to create containers with superior barrier performance, printability, and durability. Continuous technological advancements have expanded material options and applications.

Modern plastic laminated tubes typically consist of four functional layers:

1. Outer layer (print layer): Provides the printing surface for branding and product information, using materials like PE, PP, or PET for their excellent printability.
2. Barrier layer: The core protective layer that blocks moisture, oxygen, light, and odors. Common barrier materials include:
   • Aluminum foil (superior barrier properties)
   • EVOH (effective against oxygen and odors)
   • PET (moderate barrier)
   • PE (basic barrier, cost-effective)
3. Adhesive layer: Bonds all layers together using polyurethane or polyolefin adhesives.
4. Inner layer (sealant): Directly contacts the product, requiring chemical stability. PE and PP are commonly used for their inert properties.

• Polyethylene (PE) - Flexible and chemical-resistant
• Polypropylene (PP) - Rigid and heat-resistant
• Polyester (PET) - Strong with moderate barrier properties
• EVOH - High oxygen barrier
• Aluminum foil - Ultimate barrier protection

1. Film production (extrusion, casting)
2. Material lamination (dry/wet/extrusion methods)
3. Surface printing (gravure/flexo/screen)
4. Tube forming (cutting/folding/welding)
5. Bottom sealing (heat/ultrasonic)
6. Shoulder/cap assembly

• Aluminum-plastic (ABL) - Superior barriers
• All-plastic (PBL) - Flexible with good printability

• Round shoulder (standard)
• Custom-shaped shoulders

• Screw caps
• Flip-top caps
• Pump dispensers

• Excellent barrier protection
• Superior printing surfaces
• Lightweight and portable
• Precise dosage control
• Hygienic and leak-proof
• Cost-effective production
• High customization potential

• Recycling difficulties due to multi-material composition
• Environmental pollution if improperly disposed
• Limited heat resistance

These versatile tubes serve multiple industries:

• Cosmetics: Creams, serums, sunscreens
• Pharmaceuticals: Ointments, gels
• Food: Condiments, spreads
• Consumer Goods: Toothpaste, shampoos
• Industrial: Lubricants, adhesives

Future developments focus on:

1. Sustainability: Recyclable/biodegradable materials
2. Functionality: UV/antimicrobial protection
3. Smart Features: RFID/NFC integration
4. Customization: Unique shapes/designs
5. Lightweighting: Material optimization

Addressing ecological concerns through:

• Recyclable material adoption
• Biodegradable polymer research
• Material reduction strategies
• Enhanced recycling infrastructure
• Consumer education programs

• QB/T 2341-1998 (Plastic tube specifications)
• GB/T 10004-2008 (Composite film standards)
• YBB00172003 (Pharmaceutical aluminum composites)

The industry is evolving toward eco-friendly, high-performance solutions that balance functionality with environmental responsibility. Technological innovations will continue expanding application possibilities while addressing sustainability challenges.