Aluminium Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging
Why are medicines packed in aluminium foil?
The reason medicines are packed in aluminium foil is closely related to the excellent physical and chemical properties of aluminium foil. Aluminium foil packaging not only effectively protects medicines from adverse external factors but also enhances their safety and stability, making it an essential material in pharmaceutical packaging.
1. Moisture Protection
Aluminium foil has excellent moisture-proof properties. Medicines (especially tablets, capsules, and powders) are often very sensitive to moisture, and the presence of water can cause the medicines to deteriorate, lose efficacy, or clump. Aluminium foil effectively isolates external moisture with its sealing properties, ensuring that the medicines remain dry and prolonging their shelf life.
2. Light Protection
Aluminium foil effectively blocks light, especially ultraviolet and visible light. Some medicines are sensitive to light, and exposure to light can cause chemical changes in their structure, reducing their effectiveness. Aluminium foil helps maintain the stability and efficacy of medicines by blocking these light sources.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Oxygen has a significant impact on medicines, particularly on components that are prone to oxidation, such as vitamins and other active substances. The sealing nature of aluminium foil prevents oxygen from entering the packaging, preventing the medicine from oxidizing and deteriorating, thus preserving the freshness and efficacy of the product.
4. Pollution and Antibacterial Protection
Aluminium foil has natural antibacterial properties, effectively isolating bacteria, dust, and contaminants from the outside, preventing the medicine from being contaminated. In addition, the complete sealing of the foil ensures that the medicine inside is not influenced by external environmental factors, such as microorganisms in the air.
5. Safety and Tamper-Evidence
Aluminium foil provides closure and tamper-evident features, ensuring that the medicine has not been illegally altered or contaminated. Many aluminium foil packages are designed with tamper-evident seals, allowing consumers to know whether the package has been opened, ensuring the safety of the medicine.
6. Lightness and Ease of Handling
Aluminium foil is very lightweight, making it easy to transport and store. Its flexibility and formability allow it to adapt to various packaging shapes, such as blister packs, strip packs, aluminium tubes, etc., meeting the packaging needs of different types of medicines.
7. Good Printability
The surface of aluminium foil is smooth, making it easy to print and label. Information such as the name of the medicine, production date, batch number, and usage instructions can be directly printed on the packaging. This not only facilitates traceability and consumer identification but also enhances the brand value of the medicine.
8. Environmental Adaptability
Aluminium foil has strong adaptability to changes in temperature and humidity, providing stable protection under different environmental conditions. Therefore, whether in extreme high or low temperatures, aluminium foil can effectively protect medicines from damage.
9. Environmental Friendliness
Although aluminium foil requires some energy during production, it is a recyclable material. By recycling and reusing, the environmental impact of aluminium foil is reduced, aligning with the pharmaceutical industry's need for sustainable development.
How many types of aluminum foil are used in pharma?
In the pharmaceutical industry, there are various types of aluminium foil, each designed to meet specific packaging needs based on the type of medicine, its sensitivity to environmental factors, and the intended use of the packaging.
| Aluminium Foil Type | Application | Features | Typical Uses |
| 8011 Aluminium Foil | Blister packaging, strip foil, heat-seal films | Good corrosion resistance and ductility, prevents light, air, and moisture from entering, protecting the stability of the medicine | Commonly used for packaging tablets, capsules, etc. |
| 8079 Aluminium Foil | Blister packaging, strip packaging, composite films | Higher corrosion resistance and strength, suitable for packaging light-, oxygen-, and moisture-sensitive medicines, especially in humid environments | Antibiotics, vitamins, and other medicines requiring high moisture and oxygen protection |
| 8021 Aluminium Foil | Cold-formed blister packaging (Alu-Alu blister packaging) | Cold-forming process, no heating required, provides excellent moisture, light, and oxygen protection, suitable for high-end pharmaceutical packaging | Biologics, vaccines, and other medicines requiring high protection |
8011 Aluminum Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging
8011 aluminium foil is one of the most commonly used types in the pharmaceutical industry, widely applied in blister packaging, strip foil, and heat-seal films for medicine packaging. Its main features include good corrosion resistance and high ductility, which effectively prevent air, light, and moisture from entering, thereby protecting the stability and efficacy of the medicine. 8011 aluminium foil is typically used in higher hardness H18 (hard) state or soft O state, to meet the strength and flexibility requirements for different packaging needs. It is ideal for packaging various medicines, such as tablets, capsules, and more.
8011 Aluminum Foil Applications
8011 aluminium foil is widely used in blister packaging, strip foil, and heat-seal films for pharmaceutical packaging.
It is commonly used for packaging tablets, capsules, granules, powders, etc.
8011 Aluminum Foil Features
It has good corrosion resistance, excellent ductility, and moderate strength.
It is commonly used for packaging that requires moisture, oxygen, and light protection to ensure the stability of the medicine.
The common annealed states of 8011 aluminium foil are H18 (hard) and O (soft).
8079 Aluminum Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging
8079 aluminium foil has higher corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical strength. It is commonly used in blister packaging, strip packaging, and composite films for pharmaceutical packaging, especially suitable for packaging medicines that are sensitive to oxygen, moisture, and light. It performs exceptionally well in humid environments, providing long-lasting protection to ensure the medicine's efficacy and safety. 8079 aluminium foil can be processed by heat sealing and cold-forming methods, adapting to different packaging requirements. This alloy type is typically used for the packaging of antibiotics, vitamins, and other medicines, providing the best protection for the medicine.
8079 Aluminium Foil Applications
8079 aluminium foil is commonly used in blister packaging, strip packaging, and composite films.
It is suitable for packaging medicines sensitive to oxygen, moisture, and light, such as antibiotics, vitamins, and more.
8079 Aluminium Foil Features
It has higher corrosion resistance, especially in humid environments.
It has good strength and ductility, suitable for heat sealing and cold forming.
It is mainly used in applications that require high packaging strength.
8021 Aluminum Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging
8021 aluminium foil is primarily used in cold-formed blister packaging (Alu-Alu blister packaging), especially suitable for medicines that are highly sensitive to light, oxygen, and moisture. It uses a cold-forming process, where the aluminium foil is pressed into molds without heating, which not only provides excellent protection but also completely avoids any potential changes to the medicine that could be caused by heat sealing. 8021 aluminium foil is widely used for high-end pharmaceutical packaging, such as biologics and vaccines, and other medicines that require high levels of protection. It offers long-lasting moisture, light, and oxidation protection, ensuring the stability of the medicine throughout its lifecycle.
8021 Aluminium Foil Applications
Cold-formed blister packaging (Alu-Alu blister packaging).
8021 Aluminium Foil Features
Provides excellent light, moisture, and oxygen protection, widely used in packaging medicines requiring extremely high protection.
It has good formability, able to form suitable blister shapes without heating, by applying pressure.
It is suitable for high-end medicines that require high protection, such as biologics, vaccines, and more.
How thick is aluminium foil in pharmaceutical industry?
In the pharmaceutical industry, the thickness of aluminium foil typically varies depending on the application. The common thickness range for aluminium foil is between 0.02mm and 0.06mm. Different thickness designs effectively meet the protective needs of medicine packaging, such as blocking light, moisture, and oxygen, while ensuring the safety and durability of the packaging.
Aluminium Blister Foil For Pharmaceutical Packaging
| Alloy Type | 8011, 8079 |
| Temper | H18 (Hard) |
| Thickness and Tolerance | 0.02-0.03mm (Tolerance: +/-5%) |
| Width and Tolerance | 200mm-2100mm (Tolerance: +/-1mm) |
| Typical Core Diameter | 76 mm, 150 mm |
| Core Material | Steel/Aluminum Core |
| Packaging | Sea Export Standard Wooden Box Packaging/ Pallet Packaging |
| Standard Used | IS:737:2008 |
Aluminum Foil for Strip Packs
| Alloy Type | 8011, 8079 |
| Temper | O (Soft) |
| Thickness and Tolerance | 0.02-0.05mm (Tolerance: +/-5%) |
| Width and Tolerance | 200mm-2100mm (Tolerance: +/-1mm) |
| Typical Core Diameter | 76 mm, 152 mm |
| Pinholes | No pinholes |
| Surface Quality | No scratches, edge curling, or wrinkles |
| Wettability Test | Softness Grade A |
| Standard Used | IS:737:2008 |
| Packaging | Sea Export Standard Wooden Box Packaging/ Pallet Packaging |
Aluminum Foil for Cold Forming Laminate
| Alloy Type | 8021 |
| Temper | O (Soft) |
| Thickness and Tolerance | 0.045-0.06mm (Tolerance: +/-5%) |
| Width and Tolerance | 200mm-2100mm (Tolerance: +/-1mm) |
| Typical Core Diameter | 76 mm, 152 mm |
| Pinholes | No pinholes |
| Surface Quality | No scratches, edge curling, or wrinkles |
| Wettability Test | Softness Grade A |
| Standard Used | IS:737:2008 |
| Packaging | Sea Export Standard Wooden Box Packaging/ Pallet Packaging |
Pharmaceutical PTP Aluminum Foil
| Alloy Type | 8011, 8079 |
| Structure | OP 1g±0.5g/AL 20-30/VC 3g - 8g |
| Width | ≤610mm |
| Length | 1000m - 2000m |
| Inner Diameter | 76mm |
| Surface | One side matte, the other side glossy, printable |
Tropical Aluminum Foil
| Alloy Type | 8011, 8079 |
| Structure | PA25/AL45/VC; PA25/AL60/VC; PA25/AL75/VC |
| Weight | 150g/200g/240g |
| Width | ≤600mm |
| Inner Diameter | 76mm |
| Outer Diameter | 240mm - 280mm (Customizable) |
Aluminium Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging Applications
Aluminium foil has wide applications in pharmaceutical packaging, primarily used to ensure the safe transportation and storage of medicines. It is extensively used in blister packaging, push-through packaging, peelable packaging, and strip packs. By using aluminium foil for packaging, medicines are not only well protected but also enhance the branding impact of the packaging. Additionally, aluminium foil is used in aluminium foil and paper/polyester blister films, heat-seal films, and closures, providing secure and convenient packaging solutions.
Aluminium Blister Foil For Pharmaceutical Packaging
Aluminium Blister Foil for Pharmaceutical Packaging is a key material used in the production of blister packs for pharmaceutical products. It offers excellent protection against moisture, light, and oxygen, ensuring the stability and integrity of the drug inside. Typically made from alloys like 8011 and 8079, this foil provides a robust barrier to external elements, keeping pills, capsules, or tablets safe from degradation. The foil is heat-sealed to the PVC or PVDC blister to form a secure and tamper-evident pack, preventing contamination. Its strength, combined with its ability to be easily printed for branding, makes it a popular choice for packaging over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Aluminum Foil for Strip Packs
Aluminum Foil for Strip Packs is designed specifically for packaging pharmaceutical tablets, capsules, and other products that require a convenient, protective barrier. Often used in "child-resistant" packaging, the aluminum foil is available in soft (25 μm) or harder (50 μm) grades, depending on the desired level of resistance to tampering. It provides a secure seal that prevents moisture, light, and air from affecting the product. Strip packs are easy to handle and dose, and the aluminum foil’s properties ensure that the drug is delivered in the right condition to consumers, without risk of contamination.
Aluminum Foil for Cold Forming Laminate
Aluminum Foil for Cold Forming Laminate is used in cold-form blister packaging, where the foil is pressed into shape without heat. This method involves using a dry adhesive between layers of aluminum foil and materials like PVC or nylon. The result is an extremely robust barrier that protects the drug from oxygen, moisture, and light, while also offering an airtight seal that ensures the pharmaceutical product’s integrity. This type of packaging is particularly suitable for sensitive medications that need to be completely isolated from external contaminants, such as certain biologics or high-potency drugs.
Hard Aluminum Cover
Hard Aluminum Cover is used in pharmaceutical packaging for products that require a robust and secure closure. These covers are typically formed from thicker aluminum foils and are often employed for sealing vials, bottles, and other containers that require a tamper-proof seal. The hardness of the aluminum ensures that it resists tearing or puncturing, providing a high level of security for the product. Hard aluminum covers are commonly used in combination with heat-seal or induction-seal technology to provide an airtight and tamper-evident seal, offering both security and safety for the end user.
Soft Aluminum Cover
Soft Aluminum Cover is used for pharmaceutical applications where the product requires an easily opened but secure packaging solution. This type of cover is made from softer, more pliable aluminum foil that requires more force to open, providing a child-resistant feature. It is commonly used in blister packs or for sealing bottles and containers that need a flexible but secure closure. Soft aluminum covers provide excellent protection from moisture, light, and oxygen, while also offering a user-friendly opening mechanism that is both safe and practical for consumers.
Aluminum and Paper/PET Blister Film
Aluminum and Paper/PET Blister Film is a composite packaging material that combines aluminum foil with paper or PET films to create a more cost-effective yet secure solution for pharmaceutical packaging. The aluminum layer offers superior moisture, oxygen, and light protection, while the paper or PET layer adds rigidity, printability, and ease of handling.
Aluminum Foil for Sachets and Pouches
Aluminum Foil for Sachets and Pouches is used in packaging small doses of pharmaceutical products, such as single-dose medicines or dietary supplements. The aluminum foil provides an excellent barrier against moisture, air, and light, ensuring the product remains stable and effective. The flexibility of the foil allows it to be used in various sizes and shapes of pouches and sachets, offering an easy-to-carry and convenient packaging solution for consumers. Whether for powder, granules, or liquids, aluminum foil helps maintain the integrity of the product, offering a high degree of protection from external contaminants.
Aluminum Foil for Heat Sealed Membranes and Closures
Aluminum Foil for Heat Sealed Membranes and Closures is commonly used for pharmaceutical bottle caps, vials, and tubes where an airtight seal is necessary. The aluminum foil is heat-sealed to the opening of the container to ensure that the product inside is completely protected from contamination. The foil serves as a barrier to moisture, oxygen, and light, keeping the pharmaceutical product stable and safe for use. These seals also provide tamper-evident features, ensuring that the product has not been accessed or altered before reaching the end user.
Aluminum Foil for Collapsible Tubes
Aluminum Foil for Collapsible Tubes is used for packaging products like ointments, creams, gels, and pastes. Aluminum foil provides the necessary strength and flexibility to allow the tube to be squeezed, ensuring precise dosing and preventing waste. The foil also provides a protective barrier against moisture, light, and air, ensuring that the contents remain stable and effective over time. Collapsible tubes are often used for topical pharmaceutical applications, where hygiene and ease of use are paramount. The aluminum’s resistance to corrosion and the ability to prevent contamination makes it an ideal choice for packaging such products.
Each of these aluminum foil-based products plays a vital role in the pharmaceutical industry by providing superior protection, security, and convenience for various forms of medication, ensuring they reach consumers in their optimal condition.
Choosing the Right Aluminium Foil Type for Pharmaceutical Packaging
When selecting the appropriate type of aluminium foil for pharmaceutical packaging, several key factors need to be considered, including the characteristics of the medication, packaging requirements, production processes, cost, and the protective performance of the packaging.
- 8011 Aluminium Foil: Suitable for standard pharmaceutical blister packaging and strip packs, cost-effective, and suitable for general protection needs.
- 8079 Aluminium Foil: Suitable for medications with high requirements for moisture, light, and oxygen protection, particularly performing excellently in humid environments.
- 8021 Aluminium Foil: Suitable for cold-formed blister packaging, especially for applications with high protection requirements, such as biological products and vaccines.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Aluminium Foil Type
| Requirement | Recommended Aluminium Foil Type |
| Light, oxygen, and moisture-sensitive drugs | 8079 Aluminium Foil, 8021 Aluminium Foil |
| Standard pharmaceuticals (tablets, capsules, etc.) | 8011 Aluminium Foil |
| Cold-formed packaging (aluminium-aluminium blister) | 8021 Aluminium Foil |
| Low-cost packaging requirements | 8011 Aluminium Foil |
| High protection pharmaceutical packaging | 8079 Aluminium Foil, 8021 Aluminium Foil |
Choosing Based on Drug Sensitivity
Drugs that are sensitive to light, oxygen, and moisture (such as biological products, vaccines, antibiotics, vitamins, etc.) require aluminium foil with high protective performance.
Choose 8079 Aluminium Foil or 8021 Aluminium Foil. These foils have higher corrosion resistance and provide better moisture, oxygen, and light protection, ensuring the stability of the medication during long-term storage and transportation.
For moisture-sensitive drugs (such as some standard pharmaceuticals, particularly tablets and capsules), 8011 Aluminium Foil can be chosen, as it offers good performance in moisture protection, light barrier, and oxygen resistance, while being more cost-effective.
Choosing Based on Packaging Type
Blister Packaging (for medications such as tablets and capsules): Choose 8011 Aluminium Foil or 8079 Aluminium Foil. These foils are widely used in pharmaceutical blister packaging due to their excellent formability, providing effective protection through heat sealing and thermoforming.
Cold-formed Blister Packaging (aluminium-aluminium blister): Choose 8021 Aluminium Foil. This foil provides superior moisture, light, and oxygen protection, suitable for packaging needs with extremely high protection requirements, and can be pressure-formed without heating, avoiding potential negative impacts on the medication from heat treatment.
Choosing Based on Packaging Process
Heat Sealing Packaging: If the packaging requires heat sealing, 8011 Aluminium Foil and 8079 Aluminium Foil are the most common choices. They have good heat sealability, ensuring the packaging's tightness.
Cold-formed Packaging: If using a cold-formed process (such as aluminium-aluminium blisters), choose 8021 Aluminium Foil, which can form perfect blisters through pressure molding without heating, offering excellent protection.
Considering Cost and Production Efficiency
If cost is a critical factor and the packaging's protection requirements are not extreme, 8011 Aluminium Foil is a cost-effective choice that performs well in most standard pharmaceutical packaging.
If the packaging requires extremely high security and protection, particularly for high-value or special medications, 8079 Aluminium Foil or 8021 Aluminium Foil can be chosen, though they are more expensive, they offer stronger protective properties.