What Is a Duplex Board?

A duplex board is a sheet of double-ply paper, similar to the kind of thick paper used to make cards. Duplex board is often used in packaging and has a distinctly smooth, almost waxy feel.

Duplex board is a kind of paperboard or cardboard. It is called duplex board because it is made up of two layers, or plies. The exterior of the board is very often coated to make it more water-resistant and to give it a glossy sheen, but even uncoated duplex board is strong enough to make disposable cups.

Duplex board is tough, thin and able to take on a bright white appearance, unlike common corrugated cardboard. It is commonly used to create boxes for a variety of small goods. For example, it is often used in pharmaceutical packaging. It is also used to make garment boxes and cigarette packs, paper plates and cups, and in the food industry.

Milk cartons can be made out of duplex board, and wines and liquors packaged in boxes may be inside duplex board containers. Duplex board used in the food industry is not made from recycled paper for hygiene reasons, but sometimes waste paper is used when the board is designated for other purposes.

Other common uses for duplex board is match boxes, book covers, and greeting cards. This kind of duplex board is relatively lightweight.