Advanced Packaging Test

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Testing Packaging Barrier Performance for Crispy Snacks

Crispy snacks are a universally loved treat, and they come in a vast array of forms. The satisfying snap of a potato chip, the airy pop of popcorn, the salty bite of a pretzel – these are the hallmarks of a beloved crispy snack. Maintaining crispy snack perfection from factory to consumer relies on precise packaging and quality control. Crispy snacks are vulnerable to moisture and oxygen. Moisture turns them soggy, oxygen renders them rancid, and physical pressure crushes them into crumbs. Thus, the packaging must act as an impenetrable shield, safeguarding the snack's integrity. This means the packaging must protect the snacks from factors like moisture, oxygen, and physical damage. Crispy snack packaging commonly utilizes multi-layered films like MET PET/BOPP for light and oxygen barriers, and PE for moisture protection. EVOH and aluminum foil provide superior defense for sensitive snacks. Stand-up pouches offer convenience using these films, while coated paper serves niche appli...

Testing of Moisture Barrier Packaging for Moisture-sensitive Devices Protection

Moisture-sensitive devices, the delicate hearts of modern electronics, are vulnerable to the insidious threat of humidity. Semiconductors, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and surface-mount LED devices can suffer corrosion, delamination, and electrical degradation when exposed to excessive moisture. To combat this, moisture barrier packaging is indispensable, but their efficacy hinges on stringent testing. Moisture-sensitive devices are often hygroscopic, readily absorb ambient moisture. During reflow soldering, this absorbed moisture can vaporize explosively, leading to "popcorning" – a catastrophic failure where the device's package bursts. Even without such dramatic failures, moisture can cause subtle but equally damaging corrosion and electrical degradation. Moisture barrier packaging acts as a crucial barrier, creating a low-humidity environment for storing and transporting moisture-sensitive devices. Constructed from multiple laminated layers, including aluminum ...

A Non-Destructive Vacuum Decay Method for Testing the Integrity of Lyophilized Drug Vials

Lyophilized drugs, also known as freeze-dried drugs, are medicines that have been preserved by removing water from them through a process called freeze-drying. They are often used in situations where long-term storage or transportation is necessary, such as in remote areas or developing countries. One of the challenges of using lyophilized drugs is ensuring that the vials they are packaged in remain intact. If the vials are damaged, the drug inside can become contaminated, which can lead to serious health problems. To address this issue, a promising non-destructive vacuum decay method commonly applied for testing the integrity of lyophilized drug vials. The vacuum decay test is a non-destructive method that measures the change in pressure within an evacuated chamber containing the test package. The essential non-destructive vacuum decay leak testing method and its applications are standardized in ASTM F2338-09(2020). In essence, the package is placed in a vacuum chamber, and any leaks ...

Testing Spices Packaging Barrier Properties

When it comes to packaging spices, the primary goal is to protect them from moisture, air, and light, all of which can degrade their quality. Several packaging options are commonly used to achieve this. Plastic containers made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) are commonly used for spice due to their lightweight durability and effective moisture barrier properties. Flexible pouches, especially stand-up pouches with resealable zippers, are increasingly favored for their space efficiency and ability to incorporate barrier layers that shield against both moisture and air. Additionally, traditional choices like glass jars and metal tins remain prevalent, valued for their ability to create an airtight seal and preserve the spices' freshness. To effectively preserve the quality of spices, their packaging must possess several crucial properties. First of all, the packaging must have a robust moisture barrier. Spices are inherently vulnerable to moisture absorption, which can lead to ...

Ensuring Package Integrity by Non-Destructive Vacuum Decay Leak Testing

In industries where product integrity is paramount, particularly pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food, the reliability of packaging is non-negotiable. Leaks, even microscopic ones, can compromise sterility, freshness, and overall product safety, leading to significant consequences. Leaks in packaging can allow the ingress of unwanted gases, harmful microorganisms, or particulate contaminants. This can lead to product degradation, spoilage, or even pose health risks. Therefore, the ability to accurately and reliably detect leaks is essential for maintaining product quality and consistency. The vacuum decay test is a reliable quality control measure. The vacuum decay test is a non-destructive method that measures the change in pressure within an evacuated chamber containing the test package. The essential non-destructive vacuum decay leak testing method and its applications are standardized in ASTM F2338-09(2020). In essence, the package is placed in a vacuum chamber, and any leaks...

Barrier Properties Assessment of Packaging for Oxygen-Sensitive Medical Diagnostic Kits

Medical diagnostic kits containing oxygen-sensitive components necessitate packaging with robust moisture and oxygen barriers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their diagnostic tools. Oxygen and moisture can degrade sensitive reagents and sensors, leading to inaccurate results. Materials such as barrier foil laminates, flexible barrier films, foil pouches, rigid plastics (HDPE, LDPE, PP, PS), and glass vials or ampoules are commonly employed. To maintain product integrity, packaging for these kits must incorporate features like tamper-evident seals, easy-peel designs, and durable construction, especially when protecting sensitive electronic components. To verify these properties, packaging materials undergo rigorous testing. Oxygen permeation testing measures the rate at which oxygen passes through the packaging, crucial for oxygen-sensitive components, while moisture vapor transmission rate testing determines the material's resistance to moisture ingress. Labthink C406H Ox...