In the foam packaging world, there are two big names: PE Foam and PP Foam. While both are types of foam, they couldn’t be more different.
Both PE Foam and PP Foam offer unique benefits for different applications. Here are the differences between the two.
What is PE Foam?
Polyethylene (PE) Foam is low cost, resilient to chemicals and water, and industrially recyclable. It’s suited for a wide variety of applications - end caps, case inserts, and other common types of packaging.
PE Foam Advantages
- Sustainable - made from recycled materials and can be recycled after use
- Fast and Easy to fabricate and bond
- Chemical resistant
- Water resistant
- Can be heat bonded
- Wide variety of densities and color
> Learn More About PE Foam
Why is PP Foam?
Polypropylene (PP) Foam is a closed-cell foam that’s highly shock-absorbant. It’s typically available for packaging foam in the form of Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) - which means the cells are slightly more expanded, to create less rigidity. Overall, PP Foam is higher-cost than PE Foam, but it’s also much more resistant to compression and impacts.
PP/EPP Foam Advantages
- High compression and impact resistance
- Shock absorbent
- Very firm in low densities (ideal for stacking strength)
- Larger bun sizes offer a lot of yielding flexibility
> Learn More About PP Foam
Find Your Best Option with a Packaging Expert
Both PE and PP have their advantages - but knowing which one is best depends on your application. For most products, PE is the better option. However, PP can be a better choice for electronic and extremely delicate products. To find the best option, work directly with a packaging expert.
As a leader in the packaging industry, Foam Industries has set the bar with an unwavering commitment to quality, exceptional client service, and constant innovation. Through our extensive inventory of endlessly customizable products, we ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Contact a Packaging Expert
Foam Industries is a custom protective packaging company specializing in foam – with additional wood and plastic fabrication services. Our custom foam fabrication services are ideal for any type of packaging, display, or support service needed – from design to finished product.
