Transparent AlOx Coated PET Film: The Clear Alternative to Aluminum Foil for High‑Barrier Packaging
Jul 08,2026 | FOSHAN CAILONG METALLIC PACKAGING MATERIAL CO.,LTD
What Is AlOx Coated PET Film?
AlOx (aluminum oxide) coated PET film is a transparent, high‑barrier packaging material produced by depositing a nanometer‑thick layer of aluminum oxide onto a PET base film. Unlike conventional metallized films, AlOx coating remains clear (light transmittance >89%), allowing consumers to see the product while providing oxygen and moisture barrier comparable to many foil‑based structures.
Key advantages over traditional opaque metallized films:
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Transparent – product visibility enhances shelf appeal
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Microwave‑safe – no metal layer to cause arcing
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Metal‑detectable – ideal for food safety lines
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Recyclable‑friendly – thin coating does not disrupt PET recycling streams
The Four Grades of Cailong AlOx Film
Based on the technical specifications provided, Cailong offers a series of AlOx products tailored to different barrier and processing needs:
|
Grade |
OTR (cc/m²·24h) |
WVTR (g/m²·24h) |
Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Standard Alox |
≤2 |
≤2 |
General purpose; boil‑proof; can be used as face or laminate layer |
|
Ultra‑high barrier Alox‑010 |
≤1 |
≤1 |
Higher barrier; also boil‑proof; three‑layer structure meets retort |
|
Printable Alox‑T (with protective layer) |
≤1 |
≤3 |
Enhanced printability; direct printing possible |
|
Retortable Alox‑TZ (with protective layer) |
≤0.5 |
≤1.5 |
Direct printable; withstands high‑temperature retort conditions |
All four grades outperform traditional transparent barrier materials such as PA, KPA, KPET, and KOPP by several times in barrier performance. They can also replace part of aluminum foil structures in certain applications.
Why Choose AlOx Over Conventional Barrier Films?
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Transparency + Barrier – Most high‑barrier films (metallized, foil) are opaque. AlOx gives you both clarity and protection.
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Process Compatibility – Can be used as face layer or laminate layer; supports boiling, and three‑layer composites meet retort requirements.
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Food Safety – Metal‑detectable feature allows inline quality checks; microwave compatibility expands convenience food options.
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Sustainability – Thinner coating means less material usage; compatible with existing PET recycling streams.
Primary Application: Food Packaging
AlOx films are currently applied in food packaging where extended shelf life, flavor retention, color preservation, and reduced additives are desired. The material's lightweight nature also contributes to lower transportation emissions and less overall material consumption.
💡 Example use cases: retort pouches (soups, sauces), coffee/tea stand‑up pouches, spice sachets, dried fruit packaging, and microwaveable meal trays.
FAQ (SEO Snippet Target)
Q: Is AlOx coated PET film recyclable?
A: Yes. The aluminum oxide layer is only nanometers thick and does not interfere with standard PET recycling processes. Many recycling facilities accept it.
Q: Can AlOx film be printed directly?
A: Only grades with a protective layer (Alox‑T and Alox‑TZ) are designed for direct printing. Standard Alox requires a lamination or coating step before printing.
Q: How does AlOx compare to EVOH in barrier?
A: AlOx typically provides similar or better OTR values (≤0.5–2 cc) compared to EVOH, but with better moisture barrier (WVTR ≤1.5–3 g) and without the humidity sensitivity of EVOH.
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