Permeability
Measuring the gas barrier properties of packaging is essential to ensure the protection and durability of the packaged product
Do you need to test the functionality of your packaging or packaging material?
The gas transmission rate (GTR) is the rate at which molecules of a given gas pass from one side of a material to the other. The result is the transmission rate of the gas in question when the passage of gas molecules reaches a constant rate.
It is important to measure a material’s gas barrier properties and transmission rate because most food spoils when in contact with certain gases and this significantly reduces its shelf life for reasons related to sensory factors and food safety. In some kinds of product packaging, such as modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), the packaging is filled with a gas composition. It is therefore necessary to ensure that the material can safely hold the gas and is not affected by gas diffusing in or out of the package.
Gas transmission rate testing
At AIMPLAS, we offer different solutions to determine the gas barrier properties of packaging materials and product packages. Gas barrier properties are determined based on the specific need and the future application of the packaging material.
Oxygen transmission rate (OTR)
Oxygen causes many foods to spoil because it causes the oxidation of lipids (rancidity) and accelerates the senescence of fresh vegetable products, thus enhancing the growth of most microorganisms.
At AIMPLAS, we perform OTR testing on films at 0% relative humidity in accordance with standard ASTM D3985, and at up to 90% relative humidity in accordance with standard ASTM F1927. We also test packaging at room temperature and humidity conditions (23°C and 50% relative humidity) in accordance with standard ASTM F1307.
Water vapour transmission rate (WVTR)
Maintaining water activity in certain foods is essential to preserve the shelf life and sensory properties in certain food products. At AIMPLAS, we are fully equipped to measure the water vapour transmission rate at different temperatures and relative humidities, although 38°C and 90% or 100% relative humidity are the most common.
These tests are performed in accordance with standard ASTM F1249. We also test product packages at ambient temperature and relative humidity conditions (23°C and 50% relative humidity).
Carbon dioxide transmission rate (CO2TR)
Carbon dioxide is commonly used in modified atmosphere packaging and is also a product of plant respiration. Depending on the product to be packaged, it will be important for the carbon dioxide to stay inside the package (MAP) or be able to diffuse the packaging material. That will make it necessary to determine the transmission rate of this gas in the packaging material or product package. At AIMPLAS, we collaborate with laboratories to perform this test.
Nitrogen transmission rate (N2TR)
Nitrogen is an inert gas widely used in MAP to displace other gases that can spoil food. It may therefore be necessary to determine the gas barrier properties of the packaging material or product package in relation to this gas. At AIMPLAS, we collaborate with laboratories to perform this test.
AIMPLAS has the highest number of tests accredited by ENAC (Spanish National Accreditation Body) for plastics according to the UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025 standard in Spain.
We provide added value to our clients through a close relationship, advice on the interpretation of results and the preparation of clear and understandable reports.
AIMPLAS ensures the best results and quality for its clients so that companies can guarantee the reliability of their products or services
