What is Mylar?

Tuesday January 11, 2022

History of Mylar

Mylar, officially known as BoPET (Biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate), is a polyester film invented in the 1950s by Dupont. Mylar is known for having high tensile strength, meaning it can be stretched for a long amount of time without ripping. Mylar is also very reflective and transparent and is produced in a variety of thickness and width.

Mylar has been used extensively by a wide range of companies since being invented. In the 1950s, it was used by Kodak to create a new kind of film and later by NASA to create the first passive communications satellite. Today, it’s used in a plethora of industries including food packaging, insulation, aviation, and printing. PopTarts, which used to be wrapped in foil, are wrapped in Mylar. Popular playing card games like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Yu-Gi-Oh! all use Mylar to create holographic artwork or “holos” on the cards. Mylar is also used as insulation for electrical work, houses, space suits, and firefighter suits. Alongside all other applications, Mylar is very popular among outdoors enthusiasts.

Survival Uses

Mylar blankets are designed to be packable and lightweight. These blankets are useful because of their ability to reflect heat and deter water and wind, making them like a multitool for protecting yourself from the elements. The most common use of a mylar blanket is, you guessed it, a blanket! In cold situations, Mylar should be the outer layer of a thicker insulation to minimize the heat lost by your body. It can also be used as the roof of a shelter in hot or rainy environments, keeping heat and water out. For more uses of Mylar including a pot for boiling water, watch this video by the History channel.

How can I get my hands on some Mylar?

ProPac sells Mylar blankets for $1.40 per blanket. We also include Mylar blankets in most of our preparedness kits. If you’re interested in buying bulk, please contact us for pricing.