Bubble Wrap and Cellulose

Military packaging relies on more than just boxes and crates; it uses a variety of cushioning and void-fill materials to ensure equipment arrives undamaged. Bubble wrap and cellulose play key roles in this process, providing protection from shock and surface abrasion while adhering to strict military standards.

SPECS

Bubble Wrap

While there isn’t a single “military bubble wrap” specification, the material typically falls under the requirements for protective cushioning material used in military packaging.

The most common specifications that cover or include military-grade closed-cell plastic film cushioning (which is what bubble wrap is) are:

📦 Key Military and Federal Specifications

PPP-C-795

Federal Specification for Cushioning Material, Transparent, Flexible, Cellular, Plastic Film (often cited for bubble wrap)

This is the primary federal specification for bubble wrap used in federal and military applications.

MIL-C-81013

Military Specification for Cushioning Material, Cellular Plastic, Flexible

Often referenced for heavy-duty, barrier-coated bubble materials

CID A-A-549

Commercial Item Description for Cushioning Materials, Flexible, Cellular, Plastic Film (Bubble)

A modern, replacement or equivalent for some older federal specs for general bubble wrap.

🛡️ Critical Military Requirements for Bubble Wrap

Anti-Static

PPP-C-795, Class 2

The cushioning material is treated to prevent the buildup of static electricity, typically pink in color. Essential for packaging items susceptible to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).

Barrier Coating

PPP-C-795, Class 1

Indicates a nylon barrier coating is required to significantly slow air loss from the bubbles, providing longer-lasting cushioning, often required for extended storage or unpredictable distribution cycles.

Fire Retardant

PPP-C-795, Class 3

Flexible, closed-cell, fire-retardant, heat-sealable material.

Combined ESD/Cushioning

MIL-DTL-81997 Type II or MIL-PRF-81705 (combined with cushioning)

Often, the bubble wrap (PPP-C-795 Class 2) is placed inside a specialized heat-sealed, anti-static or moisture barrier bag (like MIL-PRF-81705 Type III, Class 2) for maximum protection.

Cellulose

Cellulose, the primary component of paper, is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for packaging that is widely used in military applications. It takes various forms, most commonly as molded pulp or paper-based void fill.

Molded Pulp: Made from recycled paper, molded pulp is used to create custom-fit end caps, trays, and inserts. It provides excellent blocking and bracing to secure items within a container and prevent movement. ASTM-D6251 is the key standard for molded pulp, ensuring its protective properties meet military requirements for strength and durability.

Paper-Based Void Fill: This includes materials like shredded paper or crumpled kraft paper used to fill empty spaces in a box or crate. Its application is often directed by MIL-C-104, which specifies the use of dunnage and padding in wooden crates to restrict item movement and provide a resilient layer of cushioning.