Metallized paper and metallized PET film both offer good barrier properties and a beautiful glossy finish that looks great on the shelf. They’re also used for a variety of applications, including food and cosmetics packaging. However, one is a monomaterial and the other is not. Here’s why:

• MetPET is created by melting aluminium over polyester film at a high temperature with no coating. Its shine, flexibility and glossiness come from the raw polyester, which contaminates paper and board onto which it is laminated. 
• Metallized paper is made in a similar manner by vaporizing aluminum onto plain paper. Laminating metallized paper onto a cardboard packaging product doesn’t change its fundamental properties, meaning the two don’t need to be separated before recycling. 

This means that unlike MetPET, metallized paper can be processed via conventional recycling streams, making it an eco-friendly option for companies who prefer not to compromise on either sustainability or aesthetics.