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MDOPE vs BOPE: What’s the Deal with These Packaging Acronyms?
Packaging loves a good acronym. From PET and BOPP to EVOH and now OPE, it’s like learning a whole new language. But if you’ve ever found yourself nodding along in a meeting while secretly wondering what the heck MDOPE and BOPE are, you’re not alone.
So, let’s break it down.
First Things First: What is OPE?
OPE stands for Oriented Polyethylene, a type of plastic film that’s been engineered to be more sustainable. The goal? Replace traditional multi-material films (like PET/PE laminates) with mono-material PE structures that are easier to recycle—especially with soft plastics at in-store collection points.
Now, within the OPE family, we’ve got two main players: MDOPE and BOPE.
MDOPE: Machine Direction Oriented Polyethylene
How it’s made:
MDOPE is created by blowing polyethylene into a bubble (like standard PE), then stretching it in one direction—the machine direction—using a series of rollers.
Key features:
- Stronger in the machine direction
- Great for bags, pouches, snacks, and confectionery
- Can include EVOH for better oxygen barrier
- Excellent for gravure printing
- Offers downgauging potential (less material, same performance)
- Tends to tear in a straight line—great for easy-open packs
Production perks:
MDO lines are cheaper and have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for converters.
BOPE: Biaxially Oriented Polyethylene
How it’s made:
BOPE is stretched in both directions—machine and transverse—on a stenter (or tenter) frame, similar to how BOPP films are made.
Key features:
- Soft and flexible feel
- Tears easily in both directions
- Higher puncture resistance
- Improved clarity and barrier properties
- Suitable for flow wraps, pouches, and more
Production perks:
BO lines can produce up to 4x more film than MDO lines, but they require specialised (and pricier) resins—though this is changing as resin tech evolves.
So, Which One Should You Use?
It depends on your packaging goals:
If you’re looking for cost-effective, directional strength and great printability, MDOPE might be your go-to. But if you need versatility, softness, and high output, BOPE could be the better fit.
Why This Matters
With the packaging industry under pressure to become more sustainable, materials like MDOPE and BOPE are helping brands move toward recyclable mono-material solutions. They’re not just acronyms—they’re part of the future of flexible packaging.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between MDOPE and BOPE isn’t just about specs—it’s about what works best for your product, your machinery, and your sustainability goals. If you’re unsure, chat with your packaging supplier or even better—book a Technical Training workshop with us.