PET, PP or PE: which silicone release film should you choose?
If you need dimensional stability, precision and reliable running at high speeds, choose a PET release film — the go-to for laminates, composites and electronics. For versatile, cost-effective labeling and packaging, PP is usually the smart pick. Where softness, conformability and tear resistance matter most, PE delivers. Below we explain how to match thickness, release force and coating technology to your specific production process.
What is a silicone release film and how does a film liner work?
A silicone release film is a film substrate coated with a layer of silicone that creates a surface with controlled adhesion. Its job is to protect the adhesive and let the self-adhesive material — a label, tape or laminate — peel away cleanly and repeatably at the moment of application. In this role the film acts as a release liner: the carrier from which the final product is removed.
Paper or film liner: which is better?
Traditional siliconized paper performs well in many applications, but film has the edge wherever these properties are decisive:
- dimensional stability and strength — the film does not cockle or distort,
- moisture resistance — no water absorption, critical in demanding conditions,
- an extremely smooth surface — for precise, even release,
- high-speed application — fewer stoppages and web breaks,
- temperature resistance — stability in heated processes,
- thin-gauge options — reducing roll weight and volume.
PET, PP, PE: characteristics and when to choose each
PET release film
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) offers high dimensional stability, resistance to stretching and temperature, and outstanding smoothness and precision. It is the choice for demanding, high-speed processes, laminates, composites and electronics, where tolerances are tight and repeatability is critical.
PP release film
PP (polypropylene) is flexible and economical, with good transparency. It is a versatile solution for labels and packaging applications, combining a sensible cost with solid performance.
PE release film
PE (polyethylene) has a soft, flexible structure that resists mechanical damage. Choose it where conformability and tear resistance are key — for example on uneven surfaces or in applications that demand flexibility.
Comparison table: PET vs PP vs PE
| Material | Key properties | Typical thicknesses | Best applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| PET | High dimensional stability, stretch and temperature resistance, smoothness, precision | 12, 23, 36, 50, 75 µm | Laminates, composites, electronics, high-speed processes |
| PP | Flexible, economical, good transparency | 12, 23, 36, 50, 75 µm; embossed variant ~30–35 µm | Labels, packaging, versatile use |
| PE | Soft, flexible, resistant to mechanical damage and tearing | 12, 23, 36, 50, 75 µm | Applications needing conformability and tear resistance |
The full thickness range of DOLPAP silicone release film is 8–100 µm.
How to specify a silicone release film
Choosing the base material (PET/PP/PE) is only the start. It also pays to define:
- Thickness (µm): from 8 to 100 µm; typical values 12, 23, 36, 50, 75 µm. Thinner films cut weight and volume; thicker films add stiffness and strength.
- Release force: easy release for effortless peeling, or controlled release — a differentiated, precisely tuned adhesion matched to a specific adhesive and process.
- One- or two-sided siliconization: two-sided for transfer constructions and doubly critical builds.
- Color: transparent, white, red, blue, black or white-black — for identification, optical inspection or aesthetics.
- Width: rolls from 30 to 1600 mm, slit to size.
- Coating technology: UV and solventless (the latter limiting VOC emissions).
- Delivery format: rolls, spools, sheets, die-cuts; optional printing and batch marking.
Applications by process and industry
- Label production: film release liner for self-adhesive labels, especially on high-speed presses.
- Composites and laminates: a stable, smooth film as carrier and separating layer.
- Adhesive tapes: two-sided siliconization and controlled release for repeatable performance.
- Electronics: the precision, cleanliness and dimensional stability of PET.
- Automotive and construction: temperature and mechanical resistance in demanding conditions.
Why choose silicone release film from DOLPAP?
DOLPAP is a manufacturer of coated papers and films with roots in the 1950s, based in Chojnów, Lower Silesia, Poland. We offer:
- Made-to-measure converting from 30 to 1600 mm — slitting and printing matched to your machine.
- Technical consulting and samples — selecting base, thickness and release force for your process.
- Laboratory testing — confirming parameters and repeatability.
- ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 certification,
- A full range that also includes embossed film for applications that call for extra flexibility.
FAQ: silicone release film
Which film thickness should I choose? It depends on the process: thinner films (12–23 µm) reduce weight and volume, thicker films (50–75 µm) add stiffness and strength. DOLPAP covers 8–100 µm.
PET or PP — which is better? PET for demanding, high-speed processes, laminates and electronics. PP for versatile, cost-effective label and packaging applications.
What is controlled release? A precisely tuned, differentiated release force matched to a specific adhesive and process, as opposed to standard easy release.
Is silicone release film suitable for laminates and composites? Yes — PET in particular, thanks to its dimensional stability, smoothness and temperature resistance.
One- or two-sided siliconization? One-sided is standard for most liners; two-sided is used in transfer constructions and wherever both sides must perform a release function.
Talk to DOLPAP
Not sure which variant is optimal? Get in touch — we will match a silicone release film to your process, prepare a sample and propose made-to-order converting.
