What is chemical packaging?

In the chemical packaging industry, it is very important to abide by certain safety and handling precautions. If this is not done the risk put on the environment as well as the people severely increases. These risks include, fire, explosions as well as exposure. Types of packaging that can be used for storing and transporting chemicals include drums, bulk containers, jerry cans, flexi tank containers and ISO tank containers.

Drums:

Drums are cylinder-shaped containers that are often made of plastic or metal. They are a popular choice of packaging for chemicals as they can be reused and reconditioned. Although if these containers aren't handled with caution they can succumb to rust, leaks and cracks. Most drums hold 200 liters.

Bulk containers:

Bulk containers are eco-friendly as they are reusable. These containers can hold extremely dangerous chemicals and up to 1000 liters of chemicals. They are a popular choice in the industry.

Jerry cans:

Jerry cans are a cost-effective choice in the chemical industry, for its reliability and easy transportation. These have always been a main choice for transporting fuel. They can hold up to 20 liters each.

Flexi Tank containers:

Flexi tanks are very cost-effective but can only hold non-hazardous chemicals. Most of them are a standard of 20 feet.

ISO Tank containers:

ISO Tanks are a very economical choice for bulk storing and packaging. These are cylinder shaped and most of them are made of stainless steel.

The most widely used plastic used for chemical packaging is HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), this plastic is stiff and has excellent barrier properties. It also has very good chemical resistance. HDPE plastic is recyclable and is a safe option to store food and drinks. A variety of plastic is used to store chemicals, in order for the container is able to withhold and accommodate the chemical it is holding. Metal might not react well with a chemical, while glass may break; making plastic the safest packaging method.

Between 1950 and 2017, it is estimated that about 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic has been made. Global plastic production is mainly dominated by North America and Europe. Asia also plays a major role in the production and global distribution of plastics. Russia and the Middle East are responsible for the production of most of the petrochemical raw materials. Petrochemicals are chemical products received from refined petroleum.