Pharma blister packaging is consists of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic packaging. A blister pack machine closes the package inside which the blister is joined to the lining material normally by heat sealing. Blister packages have either a foil or paperboard backing, but some contain aluminum or another metal backing. Some contain only plastic sheets, while others are made up of sheets, or sheets, or multiple layers of thin plastic film. In addition, some blister packages use secondary material, such as a thermosetting polymer, to add extra strength and stability.
Pharma blister packaging usually consists of clear plastic sheets with a snap or Velcro closure on each side. The sheets are placed inside a metal or wood case with a central hole. A cylindrical cavity filled with medication is then built around the plastic sheets, which contain the blistering agent. A metallic collar, located in the case, pushes against the plastic and creates pressure, which causes the blister to burst and release the medicine into the product. A needle or other insert may also be used to inject the medication into the blister, although this method is not generally used with liquids.
A common use for pharma blister packaging is for the production of dosage forms, particularly for administering to patients under medical supervision. Blister packaging provides good protection for the tablets during shipping, storage, and preparation. Furthermore, blister packaging provides good protection for tablet surfaces during shipping. Thus, blister packaging provides good protection for tablets for all these purposes.
Germany is witnessing the R&D of sustainable packaging solutions. For instance, in August 2021, Klöckner Pentaplast, a Germany-based manufacturer of plastic packaging products, launched recyclable PET blister packaging that is easy to drop into existing operations.