Beer can

Beer Can is a type of container specifically designed for the storage and distribution of beer. The beer can has a rich history and has undergone significant changes in design and materials over the years.

History

The first beer cans were introduced in the United States in the early 1930s by the American Can Company. These early cans were made of steel and required a separate opener, known as a church key, to puncture the top of the can and create an opening for drinking.

In the 1960s, the pull-tab beer can was introduced. This design incorporated a ring that, when pulled, would remove a pre-scored portion of the can's top. However, this design was eventually phased out due to the potential for injury from the sharp edges of the removed tab and the environmental impact of discarded tabs.

The current design of beer cans, known as the stay-tab, was introduced in the 1970s. This design features a tab that is attached to the can and, when pulled, creates an opening for drinking without detaching from the can.

Design and Materials

Modern beer cans are typically made from aluminum, although steel cans are still in use. The interior of the can is coated with a thin layer of plastic to prevent the beer from coming into direct contact with the metal, which could affect the taste.

The standard size for a beer can in the United States is 12 ounces, although cans are also available in a variety of other sizes, including 8, 16, and 24 ounces.

Environmental Impact

Beer cans are widely recyclable, and the use of aluminum cans in particular has significant environmental benefits. Aluminum is one of the most recyclable materials, and the process of recycling aluminum uses only a fraction of the energy required to produce new aluminum.

However, discarded beer cans can also contribute to litter and waste, particularly when not properly disposed of.

See Also

• Bottle
• Aluminum recycling
• Packaging and labeling