Most households today have at least one adhesive or sealant product in their toolbox. We often concentrate on the product’s constituents, forgetting the actual packaging. Numerous considerations are made when choosing packaging options for various reasons.

Size

When determining how to package a sealant or adhesive, the size of the package plays a crucial role. While larger containers often offer a more cost-effective solution per unit of volume, the level of convenience is an important consideration as it ensures the right performance for assembling jobs.

“The typical application quantity significantly influences the container size as well,” says Pattex’s packaging operator.

“Let’s consider an example of wood glue. Wood glue usually requires a relatively small amount of material, making a small tube an appropriate packaging option. On the other hand, a highway sealant, which demands a larger volume, might be packaged in a large cartridge or a pail.” She explains

In some cases where a substantial amount of sealant or adhesive is needed, packaging is even done in 55-gallon drums.

Dispensation Method

It is essential to take into account the prevailing industry norms in terms of the equipment used for application and dispensing. While a new and innovative packaging solution may offer numerous advantages, its successful adoption may face challenges if customers have grown accustomed to using specific types of dispensing equipment over the years.

Consider a scenario where professionals in the construction industry are accustomed to using a specific type of handheld adhesive dispenser for their projects. Introducing a new packaging design that requires a different type of dispenser, such as a bulk adhesive pump, can present challenges. Even if the new dispenser offers improved efficiency or cost savings, convincing the construction workers to switch to the latest equipment might be difficult. Manufacturers might then develop adaptors or conversion kits that allow the new packaging to be compatible with the existing handheld adhesive dispensers, facilitating a smoother transition for industry professionals. Top of Form

Regulatory Compliance

Depending on your product and market, specific regulations may govern packaging materials and labelling requirements. A post by eGlobal Travel Media advises manufacturers to ensure their chosen packaging complies with relevant regulations to avoid legal issues and maintain product compliance.

UV Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can have detrimental effects on certain types of adhesives and sealants, causing them to degrade or lose effectiveness over time. Therefore, it’s crucial to select packaging materials that offer adequate UV protection.

To safeguard against UV damage, one effective strategy is to opt for packaging containers that are dark-coloured or opaque. These containers can effectively block UV light from penetrating the packaging and reaching the adhesive or sealant. UV protection becomes particularly important when adhesives and sealants are stored or used in outdoor environments or exposed to sunlight during transportation or storage.

Material Compatibility

Adhesives and sealants can have different chemical compositions, so selecting packaging materials compatible with the specific product is crucial. Standard packaging options include plastic, glass, and metal containers. Ensure that the packaging material doesn’t react with or degrade the adhesive or sealant, leading to product contamination or reduced performance.

Air and Moisture Protection

These products are often sensitive to air and moisture exposure, which can lead to premature curing or degradation. Look for packaging options that provide excellent barrier properties to prevent air and moisture ingress. For instance, containers with tight-fitting caps, seals, or induction seals can help maintain product integrity.

Environmental Considerations

In today’s world, there is a growing awareness and concern about the environmental impact of packaging materials. Therefore, choosing packaging options that align with sustainability goals is crucial.

When evaluating packaging options, it’s essential to assess their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Look for packaging materials that are recyclable, reusable, or made from renewable resources. These choices can help reduce waste and minimize the consumption of finite resources.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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