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Showing posts from July, 2024

Challenges and Testing Requirements for Food Packaging

Food packaging plays a pivotal role in preserving product quality, extending shelf life, and maintaining consumer safety. While traditional packaging materials like glass and metal have been widely used, flexible packaging options like plastic films and pouches have gained significant traction due to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and environmental benefits. However, ensuring the integrity and functionality of these packages requires rigorous testing to guarantee product protection. Food packaging faces challenges in maintaining product quality. Factors such as oxygen, moisture, and light can accelerate food degradation, leading to loss of flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Additionally, the packaging material's mechanical properties must be sufficient to withstand the rigors of the supply chain. To address these challenges, comprehensive testing is essential. Key areas of focus include: Oxygen transmission rate (OTR): Measures the rate at which oxygen permeates the...

Food Packaging Testing Solutions Extending Shelf Life

The processed food industry is heavily reliant on packaging to maintain product quality and ensure consumer safety. Packaging serves as a crucial barrier, protecting food from external factors that can accelerate spoilage, such as moisture, oxygen, and contaminants. To achieve optimal product shelf life, packaging must be meticulously designed and tested. A key consideration is the packaging's barrier properties. For instance, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) measures the amount of moisture passing through the packaging, while oxygen transmission rate (OTR) indicates the amount of oxygen that permeates the material. These parameters are critical in preventing spoilage caused by oxidation, moisture, and microbial growth. Testing the packaging's ability to protect against organic compounds is equally important. These compounds, responsible for flavors and aromas, can migrate through packaging materials, affecting product quality. While WVTR and OTR testing methodologies are ...

Comprehensive Packaging Functionality Testing for Prolonging Cosmetic Shelf Life

The beauty and cosmetic industry relies heavily on packaging to preserve product integrity, ensuring consumer safety and satisfaction. A product's shelf life is significantly influenced by its packaging, which acts as a barrier against external factors that can degrade its quality. Humidity is a critical factor impacting cosmetic storage. Excessive moisture can lead to product spoilage, while low humidity can cause dryness and texture changes. Additionally, cosmetics are susceptible to contamination by microorganisms, which can thrive in suboptimal storage conditions. Therefore, maintaining a controlled environment is paramount for product longevity. Packaging plays a pivotal role in safeguarding cosmetics from environmental influences. The packaging structure typically includes multiple layers, each with specific properties. For instance, inner layers might be designed to prevent moisture transfer, while outer layers protect against physical damage. The barrier properties of packa...

Critical Testing Parameters for pharmaceutical Packaging Film Performance

The quality of pharmaceutical packaging is critical in maintaining product efficacy, safety, and patient compliance. Rigorous testing is essential to guarantee these standards. Barrier Property Testing: Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR): This measures the amount of water vapor passing through the packaging material. It's crucial for preventing moisture-sensitive pharmaceuticals from degradation. Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR): While less critical for many pharmaceuticals, OTR testing is essential for oxygen-sensitive drugs. Organic Gas Transmission Rate (OGTR): This measures the permeability of the packaging to organic compounds, which can affect drug stability. Labthink C406H Oxygen /Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System is based on the testing principle of Coulometric oxygen sensor and infrared water vapor sensor. It is designed and manufactured according to ASTM D3985、ASTM F1249,ISO 15106-2 and other relevant standards to provide high precision and high efficiency oxygen...

Advanced Oxygen and Water Vapour Permeation Test Instruments for High Barrier Material

The increasing demand for high barrier property materials across various industries has spurred significant research and development efforts. However, accurately testing these materials poses unique challenges. High barrier materials exhibit extremely low gas transmission rates and require extended periods to reach equilibrium. These characteristics demand exceptional instrument performance. Key requirements include superior sealing, highly sensitive sensors, and a stable system zero. Additionally, environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and vibration can significantly impact test results. To ensure reliable data, instrument selection is critical. For differential-pressure methods, low testing limits, high vacuum degrees, and environmental control are essential. Equal-pressure methods necessitate similar environmental controls and effective gas source handling. Weighing methods benefit from automation, while sensor methods require precise sensors and robust environmental co...

Method and Instrument Assessing Barrier Properties of Starch-Based Biodegradable

Biodegradable plastics are gaining traction due to environmental concerns. To ensure their suitability for packaging food, pharmaceuticals, and everyday items, testing their barrier properties is crucial. These properties determine a material's ability to prevent gas or water vapor from passing through, affecting product quality and shelf life. To evaluate the barrier properties of a full-starch biodegradable film, two standard tests can be employed: Gas Transmission Rate (GTR): The test involves exposing the film to oxygen and measuring the amount of gas passing through over time. Labthink C106H Gas Permeability Test System is based on the differential pressure method, and is professionally applicable to the determination of gas transmission rate, solubility coefficient, diffusion coefficient and permeability coefficient of plastic films, composite films, high barrier materials, sheets, and metal foils at different temperatures. The test system conforms to GB, ISO, ASTM and other...

Coefficient of Friction (COF) Tester for Improving Equipment Lifespan and Product Quality

Friction - often overlooked, yet a potent force in manufacturing. This seemingly simple concept can significantly impact product quality, machine lifespan, and even worker safety. Every machine, from the smallest assembly line component to the largest industrial press, encounters friction. This constant rubbing of parts generates wear and tear, gradually reducing machine efficiency. By measuring friction, manufacturers can predict when parts need replacing, preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring consistent production. Labthink MXD-02 Coefficient of Friction Tester is designed for static and kinetic coefficient of friction tests of plastic films, sheets, rubber, paper, PP woven bags, fabric style, metal-plastic composite strips/belts for communication cable, conveyor belts, wood, coatings, brake pads, windshield wipers, shoe materials and tires. With the material smoothness testing, users can control and adjust material quality technical indexes to meet application demands. Besides,...

New Oxygen Permeation Tester for Packaging Materials Offers Enhanced Performance

Packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining product quality and shelf life. Oxygen permeability is a key indicator of a material's barrier properties. Labthink, a leader in packaging testing equipment, has launched the C203 Oxygen Permeation Testing Instrument. The C203 boasts enhanced professionalism, efficiency, and intelligence. Its high-precision transmitter and Labthink's core control technology ensure accurate testing across a wide range. The instrument incorporates Labthink's new-generation, three-cell design, improving test resolution, repeatability, and temperature/humidity control. C203H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System is based on Coulometric oxygen analysis sensor and equal pressure test method, and is conforming to ASTM D 3985 and other standards. It provides high-precision and high-efficiency oxygen permeability tests for high and medium gas barrier materials. It is suitable for testing the oxygen permeability of thin films, sheets and related materials ...

Water Barrier Property Test Methods for Rubber Materials

Rubber's elasticity and ability to recover from deformation make it ideal for sealing and protecting various products. However, its water barrier property, which refers to its resistance to water vapor and liquid water permeation, is crucial for its effectiveness. This report examines the test methods used to evaluate this property. There's no single standardized test method specifically designed for water barrier property of rubber materials. Consequently, relevant methods from other materials, such as plastics, are adapted. Desiccant method (GB/T 1037) measures the amount of water vapor permeating through a rubber sample under specific temperature, humidity, and pressure differentials. A desiccant is used to capture the permeated vapor, and the weight change is measured to calculate the Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR). While relatively simple, achieving a good seal with wax and maintaining a constant high humidity can be challenging. The ASTM E96 (Desiccant and Water Met...

Standardized Method Tensile Testing to Assess Material Strength

Tensile strength is a crucial property for various materials, including polymers, fibers, rubber, and metals. It reflects a material's ability to resist breaking when pulled. Tensile testing provides a quantitative measure of a material's strength, expressed as the maximum force it can withstand before breaking. This data is essential for selecting appropriate materials for various applications. Beyond strength, tensile testing helps determine a material's elongation, which indicates its flexibility. This is particularly important for flexible plastics that may not break readily but can deform significantly under stress. By comparing the tensile strength and elongation of different materials under standardized conditions, engineers can make informed decisions during the material selection process. Labthink C610H Auto Tensile Teste r is professionally applicable to measurement of tensile, peeling, deformation, tearing, heat sealing, adhesive, puncture force, opening force, p...

Testing Gas Exchange in Fresh Food Packaging

Preserving the freshness of fruits and vegetables is a continuous struggle against moisture loss, oxygen exposure, and other environmental influences. This research delves into finding the ideal packaging solution for a wide variety of produce, focusing on three commonly used films: low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The researchers employed a scientific approach to evaluate the effectiveness of these films. Specialized instruments measured the Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR), Carbon Dioxide Transmission Rate (CTR), and Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) of each film. These instruments assess how readily the film allows crucial gases and moisture vapor to pass through. Ideally, the packaging should enable produce to "breathe" at a controlled rate, minimizing both oxygen exposure and excessive moisture loss. The produce samples were stored in each film type at two temperatures (5°C and 10°C). After the storage period, researcher...

Labthink helps A Packaging Manufacturer Building In-House Testing Process for Improved quality control and customer satisfaction

A leading manufacturer of flexible packaging materials faced a challenge in maintaining efficient quality control. Initially, they relied on another facility to test their packaging, which caused delays and hampered their ability to respond to issues quickly. To ensure consistent high quality and meet growing customer demand, the company decided to establish its own packaging testing laboratory. This investment aimed to improve turnaround times for test results and enable them to identify and address production problems faster. The company conducted thorough research to select a supplier for their testing equipment. They prioritized reliable instruments, comprehensive after-sales service, and cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, they chose Labthink known for its high-quality testing instruments. Within a year, the company had a fully functional laboratory equipped with advanced testing equipment. This allowed them to conduct crucial tests on factors like oxygen and moisture barrier propert...

Key Packaging Performance Tests for Chocolate -WVTR, OTR and Seal Strength

Maintaining chocolate quality throughout its shelf life is crucial. Inappropriate packaging can accelerate spoilage through frosting, deterioration, and insect infestation. This article explores three standardized test methods used to assess the effectiveness of chocolate packaging in preserving product integrity. A low OTR is crucial for brownie packaging, as it minimizes oxygen-induced rancidity of nuts within the chocolate. Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) Test (ASTM D3985) employs Labthink C203 Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System . The instrument separates a test chamber into two sections. Oxygen flows into one side, while an inert carrier gas (nitrogen) flows in the other. The film sample separates these chambers. Any oxygen permeating the film reacts with a coulometric sensor on the nitrogen side, generating a voltage proportional to the oxygen content. This voltage is then used to calculate the OTR, indicating the film's resistance to oxygen ingress. A low WVTR is essential f...

Ensuring Edible Oil Quality through Packaging Testing- Evaporation Residue Test,Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) Test and Seal Performance Test

Packaging testing plays a critical role in maintaining edible oil quality and safety. Various tests and instruments can be used to evaluate the suitability of packaging materials for preventing oil degradation and contamination. Recent food safety concerns surrounding edible oils highlight the need for robust packaging solutions. This report focuses on the significance of testing methods and instruments employed to assess the effectiveness of packaging materials in safeguarding edible oil integrity. Three crucial tests are employed to evaluate packaging performance: Evaporation Residue Test: This test identifies the potential migration of harmful chemicals from the packaging material into the oil during storage. It plays a vital role in ensuring consumer safety by detecting the presence of substances that may leach from the packaging and contaminate the oil. Labthink ERT-01 Evaporation Residue Constant Weight Tester is an automated instrument known for its high accuracy (0.3mg) and co...

Evaluating Oxygen Barrier Properties of Plastic Cups Ensuring Food Shelf life

Pudding cups are commonly used for packaging pudding products due to their ability to maintain shape and ease of transport. However, oxygen exposure can negatively impact puddings by causing nutrient loss, flavor deterioration, and spoilage. Therefore, pudding cup materials require good oxygen barrier properties. This report describes the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) testing of a plastic pudding cup using the coulometric method according to ASTM F1307-02, Standard Test Method for Oxygen Transmission Rate through Dry Packages Using a Coulometric Sensor. The test was performed under the condition of (10 ± 0.2)℃ Temperature and 0% RH, (5 ± 1)% RH – (90 ± 1)% RH, 100% RH humidity. The testing instrument was Labthink C230H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System C230H utilizes the coulometric method, where oxygen permeates through the clamped specimen from a high-concentration side to a low-concentration (nitrogen) side. A coulometric sensor detects the increasing oxygen concentration, all...

Test for Collector-Active Material Bonding Strength in Lithium-Ion Electrodes Ensuring Battery Performance

Lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous in portable electronics and are increasingly being explored for electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage. While the overall function of these batteries is well understood, the internal structure and its impact on performance are less familiar. This report focuses on a critical aspect of electrode design: the bonding strength between the current collector and the active material. A lithium-ion battery electrode consists of a current collector (aluminum for the positive electrode and copper for the negative) coated with a layer containing the active material and a binder. During charge and discharge cycles, lithium ions move between the electrodes. This process can cause the active material to expand and contract, potentially leading to separation from the current collector. Weak bonding at this interface increases electrical resistance and reduces battery lifespan. Therefore, ensuring a strong bond between the collector and active material is...

Comparative Analysis of Aluminum-Coated VMPET and VMBOPP Oxygen Transmission Properties

Aluminum-coated films offer a cost-effective alternative to pure aluminum foil for packaging applications requiring good barrier properties. However, the effectiveness of these films can vary depending on the substrate material used. This study investigates the Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) of VMPET (vapor-deposited aluminum on PET) and VMBOPP (vapor-deposited aluminum on BOPP) to assess the influence of the substrate on barrier performance. The OTR test employed the coulometric method (equal pressure) following the standard ASTM D3985. This method utilizes a controlled environment chamber to measure the rate of oxygen permeation through the film sample. Labthink C230H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System was used for this study. This instrument is designed and manufactured based on the coulometric sensor method (aka. equal pressure method) and conforms to ASTM D3985. This instrument can be used to measure the oxygen transmission rate of barrier materials with high and medium barrier ...

A Comparative Analysis of Moisture Permeability of Sanitary Towel Substrate Materials

In this article we will introduce the testing of water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) for two sanitary towel substrate materials according to ASTM E96 standards. The cup method was employed using a C360M Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System. The test results indicate significant differences in moisture permeability between the two samples, impacting factors like breathability and comfort. Sanitary towel manufacturers prioritize consumer comfort and fluid management. Key factors influencing comfort include absorbency, leak prevention, breathability, and quick-drying properties. These characteristics are directly related to the materials used in the sanitary towel's different layers. This test focuses on the moisture permeability of sanitary towel substrate materials, a critical factor for breathability and comfort. The cup method, following ASTM E96 standards, was used to determine the WVTR of two samples. The test used substrate materials from two sanitary towel manufacturers,...

Measuring thickness for Optimizing Oxygen Barrier Performance in Packaging

PET layer plays an important role in oxygen barrier performance for the tested materials. To investigates the influence of film thickness on oxygen permeability in packaging materials, we tested three composite film specimens with different PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PE (polyethylene) layer thicknesses. The test adopted a differential pressure method according to ASTM D1434, test instrument was Labthink VAC-V2 Gas Permeability Tester. We prepared specimens in different thickness, PET(12μm)/PE(45μm), PET(12μm)/PE(60μm) and PET(25μm)/PE(45μm). The instrument measures the Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR), which signifies the amount of oxygen permeating through a film per unit area under specific conditions. The test result shows that OTR decreased with increasing thickness for both PET and PE layers. Thicker PET layer (Specimen #3) resulted in a more significant OTR reduction compared to a thicker PE layer (Specimen #2). PET layer plays a dominant role in oxygen barrier performa...

Sealant WVTR Evaluation Enhancing Moisture Protection of Outdoor Electrical Equipment

Moisture-proof sealants are increasingly used to protect outdoor electrical equipment from moisture ingress. However, standardized methods to quantify their moisture resistance are lacking. This report proposes a test method based on ASTM E96 to evaluate the moisture barrier properties of moisture-proof sealants. Moisture poses a significant threat to the safe operation of outdoor electrical equipment. It can lead to electrical shorts, metal corrosion, and equipment failure. Moisture-proof sealants are applied to seal gaps and prevent moisture ingress. While these sealants are becoming more common, there is a lack of standardized methods to assess their effectiveness. The proposed test measures the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the sealant sample. WVTR indicates the rate at which water vapor permeates through a material. A lower WVTR signifies a higher moisture barrier property. By measuring the WVTR of a sealant sample, this test provides an objective evaluation of its abil...