BOPP versus CPP films
BOPP is biaxially oriented polypropylene film, usually stiff and clear. CPP is cast, unoriented polypropylene film, usually softer and used where heat sealing is needed.
Application-dependent comparison with no universal winner. General information for preliminary evaluation; not independently reviewed or certified. Confirm grades, standards and suitability with the manufacturer for your application.
01 — What differs?
BOPP is biaxially oriented polypropylene film, usually stiff and clear. CPP is cast, unoriented polypropylene film, usually softer and used where heat sealing is needed.
| Criterion | BOPP | CPP |
|---|---|---|
| Orientation and structure | Stretched in both directions during manufacture. | Cast and not stretched. |
| Typical feel | Stiff, crisp and clear. | Softer and more flexible. |
| Heat sealing | Uncoated BOPP does not usually seal well; sealable grades have a coated or co-extruded sealing skin. | Commonly used as a sealing layer. |
| Common role in laminates | Outer printed web or stiff layer. | Inner sealant web. |
| What to confirm | Skin type, treatment level, shrinkage and print compatibility. | Seal initiation and strength, slip and anti-block package, and food-contact status where relevant. |
02 — When is BOPP often considered?
- A stiff, printable outer web is needed.
- Clarity and dimensional stability on the packaging line matter.
- A sealable skin grade is specified and tested.
03 — When is CPP often considered?
- A heat-sealable inner layer is needed in a laminate.
- Flexibility and tear behaviour matter more than stiffness.
- The structure is a BOPP outer web laminated to a CPP sealant web.
04 — What must still be qualified?
- Seal window and seal strength on the real packaging machine.
- Print and lamination bond after the intended storage.
- Odour, migration and regulatory documents for the intended contents.
Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on the application, the process and the evidence obtained from samples on the real equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Are BOPP and CPP used together?
Yes, in many laminates BOPP is the outer web and CPP the sealant web. The pairing must still be qualified for the product and the machine.
Does BOPP seal?
Only grades made with a sealable skin do. Check the grade documentation.
Related guides
Related product and material pages
- High-Barrier Packaging Materials
- Pouches & Rollstock for Flexible Packaging
- MDO-PE and BOPE Films
- Mono-Material Flexible Packaging
- PE Shrink Film and Industrial Bundling Film
- Aluminium Foil & Industrial Foil Stock
- Shrink Sleeves & Tamper-Evident Packaging Films
- Stretch Wrap, Industrial Strapping & Pallet Securing
Related glossary terms
Roll-stock · Machine direction · Transverse direction · Sealant layer · Oxygen transmission rate · Water-vapour transmission rate · BOPET · BOPP · Coefficient of friction · Coat-weight uniformity