The Impact of Sterilization on the Oxygen Barrier Properties of PVDC Composite Film

Introduction

The sterilization process is a critical step in food processing, ensuring the safety of products. However, this process can also influence the properties of packaging materials. This study investigates the effect of sterilization on the oxygen barrier properties of PVDC composite film, a commonly used packaging material.

Materials and Methods

PVDC composite film samples were subjected to a sterilization process. The oxygen permeability of these samples was measured both before and after sterilization using Labthink C230H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System. This system employs the coulometric method, also known as the equal-pressure method, to determine oxygen transmission rates.

The test procedure involved cutting samples from the film, clamping them into the test chambers of the instrument, and setting parameters such as temperature and humidity. High-purity oxygen and nitrogen were introduced into the upper and lower chambers, respectively. The oxygen that permeated through the film was measured by the coulometric sensor.

Labthink C230H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System 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 properties with high accuracy and high efficiency. The instrument features Labthink’s patented design of integrated test block consisting of three permeation cells. Equipped with a high precision coulometric sensor and Labthink’s professional computer-controlled system, the instrument can regulate and control the temperature, humidity and flow rate precisely, guaranteeing high sensitivity and excellent repeatability of test results. C230H is applicable to the determination of oxygen permeability of plastic films, sheeting, paper, and other packaging materials used in food, pharmaceutical, medical apparatus, consumer products, photovoltaic and electronic industries, etc. Optional accessories extend the capability to testing complete packages and systems such as bottles, pouches, cartons, blister packs, tubes and more.

Results and Discussion

The results indicated that sterilization significantly improved the oxygen barrier properties of the PVDC composite film. The oxygen transmission rate of the sterilized samples was lower than that of the unsterilized samples. This suggests that the sterilization process may have altered the molecular structure of the film, making it less permeable to oxygen.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that sterilization can enhance the oxygen barrier properties of PVDC composite film. The coulometric method used in the C230H Oxygen Transmission Rate Test System proved to be an effective tool for measuring these properties. Further research is needed to explore the specific mechanisms involved in the sterilization-induced improvement of oxygen barrier properties and to assess the potential implications for food packaging applications.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!