Saran Wrap was invented in 1933 by Ralph Wiley, a scientist who was working for Dow Chemical Company. The product was initially called “Saran Film” and was intended to be a transparent packaging material for food and other products. It was made by applying a thin layer of sticky plastic to a sheet of cellophane, creating a barrier that would keep food fresh and prevent spoilage. Saran Wrap quickly became a popular household item, and it is still widely used today for food storage and other purposes.
When Was Saran Wrap Invented?
The Origins of Saran Wrap
Saran wrap, an indispensable item in every kitchen, was first invented in the 1930s. A young American chemist, Ralph Wiley, was carrying out research to create a transparent coating material that could be used in many products. After a thorough examination, he discovered a substance made from vinylidene chloride that was perfect for his needs. He named his creation “Saran.”
Wiley’s discovery was groundbreaking because it was a highly flexible material that could be molded into any shape. At the time, many scientists were looking for this type of material, but none had succeeded. Saran was the first clear, flexible material that could be used in a variety of products. It was an extremely versatile material that had many applications.
The Evolution of Saran Wrap
Over the following years, Saran Wrap, as it is known today, was continually refined. In 1949, it became the first clear plastic wrap to be commercially available. Saran Wrap was initially used to wrap and store food products and to keep them fresh for a longer period. The plastic wrap was marketed to the military during World War II as it could protect food items from spoilage and contamination.
The Popularity of Saran Wrap
After the war, Saran Wrap became a household name. With its convenience, people were quick to adopt it into their day to day lives. The product’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1960s when cling wrap, a variation of Saran Wrap, was introduced. Cling wrap could be stuck to food products, sealing in freshness and flavor, and was more convenient when compared to traditional plastic wraps. Home cooks and professionals alike loved it, and it remains a kitchen essential to this day.
In conclusion, Ralph Wiley’s discovery and creation of Saran Wrap, thanks to his innovative and creative mind, changed the way we store and preserve food. Saran Wrap’s popularity never declined, and it remains a household name and a staple product in every kitchen for several decades now.
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When Was Saran Wrap Invented?
Saran wrap is a household item that has become a staple in kitchens all over the world. It is a thin plastic film that is used to wrap food items to keep them fresh. The invention of this useful product dates back to 1933 when a chemist named Ralph Wiley discovered a substance called polyvinylidene chloride. Ralph was working at the Dow Chemical Company in the United States when he first stumbled upon this new substance.
Polyvinylidene chloride or PVDC was a type of plastic that was transparent, flexible, and resistant to water and air. It was perfect for wrapping food and keeping it fresh for a longer time. After several years of experimenting with different formulas and plastics, the first Saran Wrap product was born. The name “Saran” was derived from the name of the original company that produced the product – Dow Chemical’s Sara Lee Corporation.
The first Saran Wrap product was made available to the public in 1949. It was an instant success and quickly became a household name. Saran Wrap has been a kitchen staple ever since, and it continues to be used by millions of Americans every day.
How Saran Wrap Is Made
Saran wrap is made from a type of plastic called polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), which is a type of vinyl. It is also composed of various additives, including plasticizers, slip agents, and cling agents, that give the wrap its distinct properties.
The Materials Used
Polyvinylidene chloride or PVDC is the primary material used to make Saran Wrap. It is a thermoplastic substance that is derived from vinyl chloride monomers. The material is also mixed with various additives, including plasticizers, that improve its flexibility and slip agents that prevent it from sticking to itself.
The cling agents used in Saran Wrap include polyisobutylene, which is a rubber-like substance that helps the wrap adhere to surfaces. This cling agent is what makes it easier to wrap food items and keep them fresh. The combination of these additives gives Saran Wrap its unique properties, making it an effective product for preserving food items.
The Manufacturing Process
The process of making Saran Wrap involves several stages, starting with the blending of the raw materials. Once the materials are thoroughly mixed, they are heated to a high temperature to create a molten liquid. This liquid is then extruded or pushed through a die to create thin sheets.
The sheets are then stretched and cooled by a process called blowing. This process involves air being blown onto the sheets, causing them to stretch and cool into thin, flexible films. The films are then cut into the desired size and shape and packaged for distribution.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
While Saran wrap is convenient, it is not the most environmentally-friendly option. It is made from non-renewable resources, and its disposal can contribute to plastic pollution. However, there are alternatives available, such as beeswax wrap or reusable silicone food covers.
Beeswax wraps are made from natural materials, making them biodegradable and compostable. They are perfect for wrapping food items and keeping them fresh, just like Saran Wrap. Silicone food covers are also a great alternative, as they are reusable and can be washed and reused many times over.
While Saran wrap may not be the most eco-friendly product available, there are plenty of alternatives that can help reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability.
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