ABS & PET are both variants of thermoplastic, that are widely used materials for cosmetic packaging. Both are largely compared in terms of product protection, strength to weight ratio and the adherence with innovative design dynamics that’s an essential part of the business. So here goes some elementary clarification about what is what, their advantages and disadvantages on specific criterion, their take on eco-friendly perspectives and finally help cosmetic manufacturers choose suitable packaging solutions for diverse products.
Plastic is a pivotal resource for the packaging industry, not any less for cosmetic packaging. Whereas, understanding the different types and package components will only make up for a better life cycle of a product as a whole, in terms of product protection, being able to run with the innovative technologies of application, such as roll-on, pump or click to open etc. The role of a cosmetic packaging container is not just about containing the product, it is also about application, ease of carrying it around in a purse, chemical leaching from long term storage, and of course, suit up with the ideals of “attractive packaging” and be distinguishable at large, still at an affordable cost.
ABS and PET are both thermosoftening plastic polymers that are both moldable at high temperatures, which applies for all the above mentioned criterion, moreover, the same “moldable” nature gets them their “recyclable” status. Hence, these two polymers are highly sought after over the permanent results of thermosetting plastic. But there are further differences in nature between the two interlinked composites of ABS and PET that may affect a cosmetic manufacturer’s decision to choose as the ideal material for specific products.
So before we get down to the comparison, here is a head on about the core nature of the two.
What Is ABS Plastic
What makes Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) thermoplastic special is its thermoforming ability, thanks to its high-strength, impact resistance qualities. Which means, ABS is highly compliant to heterogenous structural applications, that makes it especially worthwhile for crafting tiny, detail oriented containers that are required to be highly durable throughout the lifespan of the cosmetic and exhaustive usability. Lipstick containers, compacts, mascara tubes are some typical examples of the products that can use ABS plastic packaging for good.
Even though ABS is moldable under thermolysis temperature of about 400 °C, it can withstand a lot of abrasion, are unbreakable despite falling off of hands multiple times, or even promote insulation properties to keep up the cosmetic product at a static consistency, even when its habitat is inside the humid confines of a purse. ABS, is thus an excellent proponent of push-tubes for oil and wax based chapstick, concealers, etc.
Deriving from petroleum and natural gas, ABS is composed of organic compounds like styrene, acrylonitrile and butadiene. A very distinct feature about ABS, is that it does not contain any halogens when in pure form. Therefore, when combusted or melted, it does not fume any persistent organic pollutants, nor does it seem to have any carcinogens, as per various studies. However, it does produce toxic gaseous compounds like hydrogen cyanide and carbon monoxide, at a boiling point or 3D printing, which can turn out to be environmentally hazardous on a long run, especially cause air bourne health hazards to immediate manufacturers with long term exposure.
What Is PET Plastic
Polyethylene terephthalate(PET) thermoplastic derives from the same polyester resin, that is used to fabricate synthetic textiles used for clothing, and is one of the root components for engineered biodegradable plastics. PET is the most commonly used plastic for any packaging unit, whatsoever, the most significant quality that makes PET a pet for cosmetic packaging, is it’s non-reactive nature towards moisture, thus creating a formidable moisture barrier for liquid and semi liquid products like lotions and tonics. This is the same material used for packaged drinking water and soda, so it can be safe for use.
Most common packages made out of PET are jars and bottles, that are often combined with glass fibres and other engineered resins, that gives it more strength and a glass like clarity, that may be transparent, translucent or 3D painted. Of course, this material also has thermoforming abilities, moreover, PET also has incredible viscosity, that makes it highly sturdy despite being almost featherlite. Despite being a polyester based plastic, PET is not biodegradable, but is 100% recyclable, that make it a close alibi for “sustainable plastics”.
Advantages & Disadvantages Of ABS & PET
Material wise, PET and ABS might look the same, however, the core advantages and disadvantages about the two are often similar as well as contrasting, owing to variations in texture, performance, and overall look of the containers.
ABS Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highly sturdy
- Superior finish
- Lightweight
- BPA free and Food Grade
- Compatible with tiny, modular design dynamics
Cons
- Fume toxic chemicals while 3D printing and at boiling point, can be hazardous for manufacturing workers
PET Pros and Cons
Pros
- Most eco-friendly among the non-biodegradable thermoplastic counterparts
- BPA free and Food Grade
- Lightweight and sturdy
Cons
- Not enough rigid to comply with tiny modular like flip open mechanisms
When compatred, ABS seems to be sturdier than PET and on the other hand, PET is comparitively less hazardous than ABS.
Select The Right Materials For Your Products
The different forms of plastic come in different standards, notably EU regulations, and also FDA or FDA&C approval for certain criteria of safety. Environmental impact is another most crucial subject revisited by the plastic packaging industry, which is a good thing to stay updated with. Whether you choose stock packaging or custom packaging, always stick to the fundamental criterion of ISO Certified manufacturers, and keep track of all other regulatory and compliance guidelines imposed by the Government of your jurisdiction.
