Skip to main content

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!

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Moisture Resistance Testing of Thermal Conductive Silica Gel Pads

Thermal conductive silica gel pads, crucial components in electronic devices, require effective moisture resistance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This article delves into a comprehensive testing method for evaluating the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of these pads. Electronic components are sensitive to moisture, which can lead to corrosion, short circuits, and reduced reliability. Thermal conductive silica gel pads, often used to facilitate heat dissipation between electronic chips and radiators, play a vital role in preventing moisture ingress. Their moisture resistance properties directly impact the protection of sensitive internal components. The electrolytic sensor method, a widely recognized standard, is employed to measure the WVTR of thermal conductive silica gel pads. This technique involves creating a controlled environment with a high humidity chamber on one side and a low humidity chamber on the other. A sample of the thermal conductive silica gel pad ...

Quality Requirements of Lithium Ion Battery Separators

Business Challenge Lithium-ion batteries have one of the best energy-to-weight ratios, no memory effect, and a slow loss of charge when not in use. This makes them one of the most popular types of batteries for portable consumer electronics in today’s marketplace. Lithium-ion batteries can be found in cameras, laptops, power tools, toys and more. However, as recent well-publicized recalls demonstrate, they can pose a risk of fire and overheating. In addition, they can suffer from a reduced lifespan if not properly treated. As a result, new and stricter requirements are being implemented globally to address potential hazards, leaving manufacturers and purchasers of products containing lithium-ion batteries to meet increasing requirements and overcome safety concerns. Lithium Ion Battery Separators A Lithium Ion battery Separator is a permeable membrane placed between the anode and cathode of a battery. The main function of a separator is to keep the positive and negative electr...

Introducing Vacuum Decay Testing Method for Pharmaceutical Packaging Integrity

Maintaining the integrity of pharmaceutical packaging is fundamentally essential for safeguarding product efficacy and patient safety, and vacuum decay testing stands as a highly reliable non-destructive method for verifying this integrity. This technique, particularly effective for blister packs, vials, and pre-filled syringes, identifies leaks without compromising product sterility or efficacy. Vacuum decay testing leverages the principle that a sealed package, when subjected to a vacuum, will exhibit predictable pressure changes if it's leak-free. Conversely, a leaking package will show a different pressure profile. Specific Vacuum Decay Techniques:   Differential Pressure Transducers: These precise sensors measure the difference in pressure between the vacuum chamber and a reference chamber. This allows for detection of very small leaks. Absolute Pressure Sensors: These sensors measure the absolute pressure within the vacuum chamber, providing data to determine the rate of pres...