PFFC - January 2008 - (Page 63b) David J. Bentley, Jr., Editor TAPPI, 15 Technology Parkway South, Norcross, GA 30092; 770-446-1400; 800-332-8686 (US); 800-446-9431 (Canada); FAX 770-446-6947 E X E C U T I V E S U M M A RY New Tools For Aroma Barrier Testing by M. Vaha-Nissi, et al., KCL APPLICATION: New tools using automatic sampling with gas chromatographic and numeric analysis can test for aroma barrier. A primary function of a package is to protect the product throughout the anticipated shelf life. A very important factor when selecting packaging material is the barrier properties. The packaging industry is interested in new test methods for aroma barrier because a widely accepted method or specifications for the aroma transfer into and through packaging materials are not available. Aroma transfer is also a complicated phenomenon especially with a blend of aromas simulating the actual packaging cases. Little is known about the aroma barrier of fiber-based materials and material combinations. To date, the research has mainly focused on polymer films. The purpose of this paper is to show the methods and challenges related to aroma barrier testing. This work presents new methods for evaluating aroma barrier. Aroma barrier is a combination of sorption into and permeation through the packaging material. The aroma barrier of a material depends on the structure and chemical composition of the material in question. Secondly, the composition, concentration and source of the diffusing compound have an effect on the mass transfer, similar to the presence of other interacting compounds. Methods for studying the mass transfer can be divided into permeation and sorption methods. In quasi-isostatic permeation methods the concentration gradient over the sample changes as a function of time. New quasi-isostatic methods have been developed for testing the diffusion of aromas through uncoated and coated paper and board, and polymer films from vapor phase. Desiccator method, on the other hand, is a sorption method applicable when determining of solubility and diffusion of single materials. Diluted model aroma solutions were also developed in order to reduce aroma concentration in the headspace. Base sheet was found to slow the diffusion of aroma compounds through polyethylene coated sheets. An important factor behind the positive effect of the base sheet seemed to be the surface porosity. Solubility of aroma compounds to paper is much smaller than to the polyethylenes. E X E C U T I V E S U M M A RY Advances In Airtight Paperboard Packaging by Jalliina Jarvinen, Stora Enso Food Packaging APPLICATION: Knowledge of package tightness allows optimization of barrier properties. New market development aims toward airtight paperboard package for dry foods achieved through a combination of specially developed non-foil paperboard, optimized heat-sealing, raw-edge protection, and innovative lid sealing. Such a package is suitable for snacks, cereals, confectionery items, cookies, tea, and regular or instant coffee. With the new packaging, a non-destructive package leak detection system is necessary to verify package tightness to optimize the barrier level of the packaging material. New tightness-testing equipment based on tracer gas for verifying tightness and sealing integrity of airtight packages is now available. It is a rapid and accurate solution for verifying the tightness and sealing integrity of airtight packages. The system can integrate into the packaging line with use before and after filling and lidding. To obtain the complete version of these papers, go to www.tappi.org, and select “the PLACE” under the Publications/Bookstore heading. Considerable work has focused on airtight paperboard packaging. The latest developments are about package tightness verification. Airtight packages based on the use of paperboard offer several benefits from improved product safety and prolonged shelf-life to the branding opportunities offered by the printing and converting capabilities and the environmental goodwill. Development of the concept requires strong expertise in substrate materials; barrier coating options; and production, filling, and tightness testing technology. The advantages of barrier coated dry food packaging are many. Fewer package components are necessary, and the production process uses less phases. Optimization of barrier properties of packaging material is possible by knowing the tightness of the package. The technique allows more user-friendly package designs and opening and packages that conform easily to existing recycling schemes. Profitability increases throughout the supply chain from the food manufacturer to the retail store. Submit manuscripts for publication to dbentley@tappi.org. Obtain information about the PLACE Division from www.tappi.org http://www.tappi.org http://www.tappi.org
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