Bubble Wrap: A Brand Name and a Generic Term

Bubble wrap is a trademarked brand of Sealed Air Corporation, a company that produces a variety of packaging materials. The term “bubble wrap” is often used generically to refer to any type of cushioning material made of plastic bubbles. However, in this article, we will focus on the Bubble Wrap brand specifically.

Key Facts

  1. Bubble Wrap is a trademarked brand of Sealed Air Corporation.
  2. It was originally called Air Cap.
  3. Bubble wrap is a pliable transparent plastic material used for packing fragile items.
  4. The bubbles in bubble wrap provide cushioning for fragile items.
  5. Bubble wrap was invented in 1957 by Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes while they were trying to create a three-dimensional plastic wallpaper.
  6. Sealed Air Corporation was co-founded by Alfred Fielding in 1960.
  7. The term “bubble wrap” is owned by Sealed Air Corporation but has become a generic trademark.
  8. Bubble wrap is most commonly made from polyethylene film with air bubbles.
  9. The size of the bubbles can vary, with the most common size being 1 centimeter.
  10. Bubble wrap is used for packaging fragile or sensitive objects during transit.
  11. It can also be used for surface protection and to form mailing envelopes.
  12. Bubble wrap can be made with antistatic plastic to protect sensitive electronic parts from static charge.
  13. In 2015, Sealed Air launched an “iBubble Wrap” design that cannot be popped and can be shipped flat to retailers.
  14. Bubble wrap is also used for amusement and stress relief due to the satisfying popping sound it makes when compressed and ruptured.
  15. Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day is celebrated on the last Monday of January.

History of Bubble Wrap

Bubble Wrap was invented in 1957 by Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes. They were originally trying to create a three-dimensional plastic wallpaper, but they accidentally discovered that the material they had created was perfect for cushioning fragile items. They named their new product Air Cap and began selling it to businesses that needed to ship delicate items.

In 1960, Fielding and Chavannes co-founded Sealed Air Corporation. The company quickly became a success, and Bubble Wrap soon became one of its most popular products. Today, Bubble Wrap is used by businesses and consumers all over the world to protect fragile items during shipping and storage.

Uses of Bubble Wrap

Bubble Wrap is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes. It is most commonly used for packaging fragile items, such as electronics, glassware, and artwork. However, it can also be used for surface protection, void filling, and insulation.

Bubble Wrap is also used for amusement and stress relief. The satisfying popping sound that it makes when compressed and ruptured can be very relaxing. Some people even use Bubble Wrap to create art and crafts.

Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day

Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day is celebrated on the last Monday of January. This holiday was created in 2001 by Sealed Air Corporation to celebrate the invention of Bubble Wrap. On this day, people all over the world are encouraged to pop Bubble Wrap and enjoy its many uses.

Conclusion

Bubble Wrap is a versatile and useful material that has become a staple in the packaging industry. It is also a fun and stress-relieving toy. Whether you are using it to protect fragile items or just to pop for fun, Bubble Wrap is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Sources

FAQs

Is Bubble Wrap a brand name?

Yes, Bubble Wrap is a trademarked brand of Sealed Air Corporation. However, the term “bubble wrap” is often used generically to refer to any type of cushioning material made of plastic bubbles.

Who invented Bubble Wrap?

Bubble Wrap was invented in 1957 by Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes.

What is Bubble Wrap made of?

Bubble Wrap is most commonly made from polyethylene film with air bubbles. The size of the bubbles can vary, with the most common size being 1 centimeter.

What is Bubble Wrap used for?

Bubble Wrap is used for packaging fragile or sensitive objects during transit. It can also be used for surface protection, void filling, and to form mailing envelopes.

Is Bubble Wrap recyclable?

Yes, Bubble Wrap is recyclable. However, it is important to check with your local recycling program to see if they accept Bubble Wrap.

Is Bubble Wrap biodegradable?

Traditional Bubble Wrap is not biodegradable. However, there are now biodegradable Bubble Wrap options available.

Is Bubble Wrap compostable?

Traditional Bubble Wrap is not compostable. However, there are now compostable Bubble Wrap options available.

How can I dispose of Bubble Wrap?

If you cannot recycle or compost Bubble Wrap, you should dispose of it in the trash.