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Essential Tests for Biodegradable Packaging Materials

Biodegradable packaging is gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based materials. However, ensuring their suitability for various applications requires rigorous testing.



Thorough testing of biodegradable packaging materials is paramount for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures product quality by maintaining freshness and extending shelf life by preventing the ingress of gases like oxygen and moisture. Secondly, it guarantees consumer safety by ensuring the integrity and safety of packaged goods. Thirdly, it plays a crucial role in minimizing environmental impact by verifying the material's actual biodegradability and reducing plastic pollution. Finally, it enhances market viability by demonstrating the material's suitability for specific applications and gaining consumer and industry acceptance.

Key tests for biodegradable packaging include:
 
  • Gas Permeability: This assesses the material's ability to resist the passage of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. Labthink's VAC-V2 and C106H systems are suitable for these measurements, determining factors like gas transmission rates, solubility, and diffusion coefficients.
  • Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR): This evaluates the material's resistance to water vapor permeation. Labthink's C360 WVTR test system employs gravimetric method, C306H WVTR test system employs infrared sensor methods, to measure WVTR accurately. These tests are vital for packaging sensitive products like food and pharmaceuticals.
  • Mechanical Properties: Assessing strength, flexibility, and other mechanical properties is crucial for ensuring package integrity during handling and transportation. Labthink's Auto Tensile Testers and thickness measurement instruments provide valuable data in this regard.

As the demand for sustainable packaging solutions grows, rigorous testing will play a pivotal role in driving innovation and ensuring the successful adoption of biodegradable materials. Labthink, with its comprehensive range of testing equipment and expertise, is well-positioned to support the industry in this crucial endeavor.

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