The difference between blister aluminum foil and cold formed aluminum foil

Blister foil and cold-formed aluminum foil are both packaging materials used in the pharmaceutical industry for packaging pharmaceuticals, especially tablets and capsules. There are many commonalities between the two packaging materials, and there are also major differences in the application of medicinal products.

Materials and construction:

Blister foil: Blister foil is also called push-in lidding foil. It is usually made of aluminum. Common alloys are 8011, 8021. The blister foil has a layer of heat-sealable polymer on one side, which is designed to seal the blister packaging. The back (the cavity containing the medication) is sealed to a backing material, which is usually plastic or cardboard.

Cold-formed aluminum foil: Cold-formed aluminum foil, also known as cold-formed blister foil or CF foil, is made from an aluminum base through a cold forming process. The main alloy is 8011 8021 1235. Cold formed foils generally do not have a heat sealable layer.

Differences in packaging methods:
Blister Foil: Blister foil is used to create a barrier between the medication and the external environment. The heat-sealable blister foil layer seals to the backing material, creating a secure and tamper-evident package. Tablets or capsules are contained within individual cavities of a blister pack.

Cold-formed aluminum foil: Cold-formed aluminum foil is used for specialized packaging of drugs that are sensitive to moisture, oxygen, or light. It provides a higher level of protection because it is less permeable to the elements. Cold-formed foils are typically used in high-barrier applications where the contents require special protection.

Protective and Barrier Properties:
Blister Foil: Blister foil provides a medium level of protection and acts as a barrier to moisture, light and oxygen.

Cold-formed aluminum foil: Cold-formed aluminum foil has excellent barrier properties and is suitable for pharmaceuticals that are highly sensitive to environmental factors.

Purpose and application:

Blister foil: Blister foil is widely used for packaging a range of pharmaceutical products, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and other solid dosage forms.

Cold-formed aluminum foil: Cold-formed aluminum foil is typically used for high-value or critical pharmaceuticals that require maximum protection. It is used for packaging sensitive pharmaceuticals such as certain antibiotics or biopharmaceuticals.