Bubble wrap is a transparent plastic material used for packing fragile and breakable things. It is a plastic sheet with regularly spaced bubbles. These bubbles are actually air filled hemispheres which are spaced at regular intervals and provide a cushioning to the items packed and prevent them from breaking. Bubble wrap comes in different size bubbles (from 6mm to over 25mm), widths and lengths as well as anti static bubble wrap for packaging electronic goods.

Bubble Wrap was invented by two engineers, Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, in 1957. Like many innovations, it was accidental: The two were trying to create a textured plastic wallpaper with paper backing that could be easily cleaned. The term is a registered trademark of the Sealed Air Corporation (US) which was founded in 1960 by those inventors, and should theoretically only be used for products of that company. However, due to the popularity of the brand, the trademark has been genericized.

There is now even a toy out designed to mimic the sound and feel of bubble wrap. Released in September 2007 the Japanese key chain toy is called Mugen puchipuchis which means infinite puti puti. Air bubbles on double-layered silicon rubber and a built-in speaker simulate the experience of popping bubble wrap and if this wasn't addictive enough, every 100 pops this keychain emits a random sounds such as a doorbell, a dog barking, "sexy voice" or the passing of gas.

Bubble wrap is ideal for ebay sellers as the light weight nature of bubble wrap reduces shipping costs.

Kevin Thomas works for Davpack, a uk packaging supplier. Their friendly staff are waiting to help you choose the right packaging for your business. www.davpack.co.uk

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