Search

The impact of preparation conditions including heating temperature (from 60 °C to 90 °C) and drying temperatures (from 25 °C to 90 °C) on the properties of pure curdlan film and konjac glucomannan (KGM) and curdlan blend films were analyzed. Microstructure analysis indicated the KGM addition could significantly improve the relatively poor film-forming property of curdlan. FTIR and X-ray analysis showed that at high heating temperature 90 °C, molecular interaction might be enhanced in the films due to the stretched structure of curdlan and dissociation of curdlan bundles or triple-helix structure. This was supported by the changes in the mechanical property, surface hydrophobicity, moisture barrier, and moisture tolerance property. The impacts of drying temperature were some different for the curdlan film and KGM/curdlan blend film, and were explained from the molecular hydrophilicity-hydrophobicity, compactness of the films, curdlan conformation, and molecular interaction. This work guided biodegradable film production especially with curdlan added.

A polyorganosiloxane thin film was deposited on an optically transparent poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate) (PEN) film using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) at room temperature to imp...

Barrier film coating is the most appropriate and widely used approach to protect solid dosages from moisture, particularly for water-sensitive drugs including herbal medicines. This study aims to produce the barrier film of a typical herbal medicine by applying an electrostatic deposition process with ultrafine powders of hydroxypropyl cellulose so as to achieve the functionality of moisture protection. The flowability of the ultrafine powders was significantly improved by adding suitable nano additives. The applied plasticizer in the coating formulation had a significant effect on the water vapor permeability of the film. Also, the electrostatic deposition efficiency were significantly affected by the charging voltage of the electrostatic gun and the plasticizer ratio. Curing time and temperature were identified as two critical parameters for barrier coating in terms of surface morphology and hygroscopicity. All the results suggested that the electrostatic deposition process is capable to produce efficient barrier film for herbal medicines.

In this study, we developed the universal encapsulation method using poly(vinyl alcohol-co-ethylene) (EVOH) to improve the water stability of perovskite solar cells. In order to enhance the moisture barrier property, we utilized SiO2 and graphene oxide (GO) fillers in the EVOH matrix. First, UV-treated SiO2 increased the dispersibility in the EVOH matrix and made the penetrating path more complicated, which led to a better moisture barrier property. The water vapor transmission ratio (WVTR) is enhanced from 4.72 × 10-2 (EVOH only) to 1.55 × 10-2 (EVOH with SiO2 filler) g/m2 day. Second, we found that GO reduce the unreacted hydroxyl groups that could attract water molecules at the surface of EVOH. The addition of GO increased the WVTR up to 3.34 × 10-3 g/m2 day. Finally, our EVOH-based film successfully encapsulated without the efficiency drop. The encapsulated devices surprisingly maintained 86% of their performance even under direct contact with water for 5 h.

Background Rapid dissolution in digestive tract and moisture sorption during ambient storage are the two challenges of dry probiotic preparations. To solve these problems, microcapsules with shellac (LAC) addition containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri TMW 1.656 were designed in this work to provide a good moisture barrier and to provide controlled release in digestive tract, based on the hydrophobicity and acid-resistance of LAC. Four microcapsules were prepared using the method of emulsification/external gelation based on the crosslinking reaction between alginate or LAC with calcium ion, including alginate/sucrose (ALG), alginate/shellac/sucrose (ALG/LAC), alginate/whey protein isolate/sucrose (ALG/WPI) and alginate/whey protein isolate/shellac/sucrose (ALG/WPI/LAC). Results Measurements of physical properties showed that microcapsules with LAC addition (ALG/WPI/LAC and ALG/LAC) had larger particle size, much denser structure, lower hygroscopicity and slower solubilization in water, which agreed with the primary microcapsule design. Probiotic survivals in digestive juices followed the order of ALG/WPI/LAC ≥ ALG/WPI ≥ ALG/LAC > ALG. Probiotic stability after heating and ambient storage both exhibited the order of ALG/WPI/LAC > ALG/LAC ≈ ALG/WPI > ALG, which can be explained by the decreased hygroscopicity with adding LAC. Conclusion LAC addition contributed to better probiotic survivals after freeze drying, simulated digestion, heating and ambient storage, and whey protein isolate (WPI) addition had a synergistic effect. Microcapsule hygroscopicity was closely related with probiotic survivals after heating and ambient storage, while microcapsule solubilization was closely related with probiotic survivals in simulated juices. Within our knowledge, this is the first report to improve probiotic stability during ambient storage based on LAC hydrophobicity. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

We report the facile fabrication of transparent and high-performance moisture barrier material (SC nanocomposite) using surface-modified bentonite clay (SC) as nanofiller and glycidyl silane as a surface-modifier/binder via simple, cost-effective and mass-producible process. SC is synthesised using a base-catalysed sol-gel process; their hydroxyl surfaces are decorated with glycidyl ligands to endure the densely stacked structure and high clay content in the final nanocomposite. The SC nanocomposite barrier exhibits high optical transparency (>90), dense multi-stacked clay structure, and considerably enhanced moisture barrier performance. We discuss the fabrication and physical properties of the SC nanocomposite. To assess the applicability of the nanocomposite as a high-performance barrier material in practical applications, typical organic light-emitting devices are encapsulated, and their lifetime is evaluated.

Biodegradable food packaging is sustainable and has a great application prospect. PLA is a promising alternative for petroleum-derived polymers. However, PLA packaging suffers from poor barrier properties compared with petroleum-derived ones. To address this issue, we designed bilayer films based on PLA and Pickering emulsions. The formed bilayer films were compact and uniform and double layers were combined firmly. This strategy enhanced mechanical resistance, ductility and moisture barrier of Pickering emulsion films, and concomitantly enhanced the oxygen barrier for PLA films. Thymol loadings in Pickering emulsion layer endowed them with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The release profile of thymol was well fitted with Fick's second law. The antimicrobial activity of the films depended on film types, and Pickering emulsion layer presented larger inhibition zone than PLA layer, hinting that the films possessed directional releasing role. This study opens a promising route to fabricate bilayer architecture creating synergism of each layer.

Applications of cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) have attracted increasing attention in recent years. One conceivable path lies in their commercial applications for packaging, in which their barrier properties will play an important role in determining their competiveness with conventional materials. This review critically analyzes the performance of CNMs acting as a barrier against moisture and oxygen permeation in CNM films, CNM-coated polymers and papers, and CNM-reinforced polymer composites, gives some insights into remaining challenges, and brings an overall perspective of compositing CNMs with other materials to achieve balanced properties adequate for barrier packaging. In general, CNMs are a poor moisture barrier but excellent oxygen barrier in the dry state and are still good below 65% relative humidity. The addition of CNMs can improve the oxygen barrier of the resulting polymer composites; however, neat CNM coatings and films can afford better oxygen barrier properties than dispersed CNMs in coa...

Summary Biodegradable food packaging promises a more sustainable future. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a promising alternative for petroleum-derived polymers. However, PLA films suffer from poor barrier properties compared with petroleum-derived ones. To address this issue, we designed bilayer and sandwich-architectured trilayer films based on PLA and gliadin. We reported firstly the direct formation of PLA–gliadin bilayer/trilayer films without surface modification on PLA film. The films were compact and uniform, and double/triple layers were combined firmly, preventing delamination. This strategy enhanced mechanical resistance, ductility and moisture barrier of gliadin films and concomitantly enhanced the oxygen barrier for PLA films. Thymol loadings endowed bilayer/trilayer films with antimicrobial activity and antioxidant activity. The antimicrobial activity of the films depended on film types, and gliadin layer presented larger inhibition zone than PLA layer, hinting that the films possessed directional releasing role. This study opens a promising route to fabricate bilayer/trilayer architecture helping to create synergism of the biopolymers.

Coconut oil constitutes the most important source of dietary fat in many countries. But, of late the consumption of coconut oil has been linked with incidence of coronary heart diseases and sustained campaign against its use is going on. Normal coconut oil contains 92% of saturated fatty acids, most of them are medium chain fatty acids (MCFA). The monoglyceride monolaurium is the substance that keeps infants from getting viral or bacterial or protozoal infections. Coconut oil lowers cholesterol through stimulation of thyroid function. Also coconut oil has high resistance to oxidative rancidity, sharp melting behavior, effective heat transfer agent in frying, provides moisture barrier and in frying, loss to bakery items in spray oil use, carrier and protective agent for fat soluble vitamins, maximum glycerin content, easily saponifiable even in cold, germicidal and antimicrobial property, ready penetration into the skin and appreciable water absorbing property.

Nanocellulose (NC) films are considered as a prospective alternative to non-sustainable packaging materials, however, their higher embodied energy and limited moisture barrier properties are regarded as a huge constraint regarding their commercialization. This study aims to produce films with relatively low environmental impact and improved barrier performance. For this purpose, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and NC were combined, and this resulted in multidimensional advantages. The mass production of films could be achieved in only 2 h (requiring at least 24 h under ambient conditions) when dried in an oven at 75 °C with enhanced mechanical properties and without compromising their dimensional stability. The moisture barrier properties of the NC/CMC films were improved up to 92 % compared with the NC films alone and the results achieved are comparable with packaging materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonates (PC) etc. Finally, the NC/CMC (1:1) films have low environmental impact compared with PET films.

Integrated standardised methodology for biopolymer derivatives (BPD) production from novel intact bitter cassava was demonstrated by desirability optimisation of simultaneous release, recovery, cyanogenesis (SRRC) process. BPD were evaluated for yield and colour using buffer (0, 2, 4% v/v), cassava waste solids (15, 23, 30% w/w), and extraction time (4, 7, 10 min). Nearly all the root was transformed into BPD, with higher yield and colour in comparison to starch extrinsically processed. Maximum global desirability, predicted efficient material balance, buffer 4.0% w/v, cassava waste solids 23% w/w and extraction time, 10 min, producing BPD yield, 38.8% wb Validation using buffer, 3.3% w/v, cassava waste solids, 30% w/w and extraction time, 10 min, produced 40.7% wb BPD. SEM, DSC, TGA, FTIR and moisture barrier analyses revealed a uniform microstructure and high thermal stability of BPD and film, thus demonstrating efficient performance of the standardised integrated methodology. Hence, processing intact cassava root as a standardised integrated methodology could be used to produce sustainable low cost BPD for a broad range of applications. Methodologies designed around standard integrated procedures, matching zero-based approach to contamination, are novel strategies, and if used effectively can eliminate cassava wastes and recover BPD resources as sustainable biomaterials.

Lacquer sap extracted from lacquer trees exhibits good thermal stabilities and antimicrobial properties. To apply these superior properties to functional packaging, polyurushiol (YPUOH) powders were prepared and blended into LDPE (low density poly- ethylene) to prepare three different LDPE/YPUOH composite films via a twin screw extruder system. Their morphology, ther- mal and antimicrobial properties as well as barrier properties of the LDPE/YPUOH composite films were thoroughly inves- tigated to find out applicablities of the films as functional packaging materials. Although the interfacial interaction between LDPE and YPUOH was relatively weak, LDPE/YPUOH composite films exhibited good dispersion of YPUOH in LDPE, resulting in the enhanced thermal stability with YPUOH loading. Due to the good antibacterial property of as-prepared YPUOH, LDPE/YUOH composite films also showed an excellent antibacterial activity (R) of 99.9% against E. coli. Furthermore, the moisture barrier property of LDPE/YPUOH composite films increased with increasing YPUOH contents. Incorporating the relatively low amount of YPUOH in LDPE resulted in the apparent enhancement in thermal stabilities, anti- bacterial and moisture barrier properties, which made them promising candidates as a functional filler for packaging materials.

Three lipids (beeswax, palmitic acid and stearic acid) and a hydrophilic film (soybean protein-isolate/carboxymethyl cellulose film) were selected as a model to inspect the relation between the lipid state and barrier properties. The free-lipid ratio of composite films was the best indicator for the transparency rather than the moisture barrier. The free-lipid content/total-lipid content had the highest negative correlation factor with the moisture barrier. Hence, raising free-lipid ratio was effective to improve the moisture barrier of hydrophilic films.

The moisture barrier properties of large-grain single-layer graphene (SLG) deposited on a Cu(111)/sapphire substrate are demonstrated by comparing with the bare Cu(111) surface under an accelerated degradation test (ADT) at 85 °C and 85% relative humidity (RH) for various durations. The change in surface color and the formation of Cu oxide are investigated by optical microscopy (OM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. First-principle simulation is performed to understand the mechanisms underlying the barrier properties of SLG against O diffusion. The correlation between Cu oxide thickness and SLG quality are also analyzed by spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) measured on a non-uniform SLG film. SLG with large grains shows high performance in preventing the Cu oxidation due to moisture during ADT.

Fabrication methods and barrier properties of graphene/polymer nanocomposites are discussed in detail throughout this chapter. Graphene/polymer nanocomposites have been reported to have superior gas and moisture barrier properties and a great potential for use in the food packaging industry. Molecular impermeability of graphene nanosheets, as well as strong interactions between polymer macromolecules and graphene nanosheets have been proposed as the main reasons for the extremely high barrier performance of graphene/polymer nanocomposites, at even very low graphene loadings. In this chapter, after a brief opening introduction section, the structure and characteristics of graphene and graphene oxide nanosheets are reviewed in the second section. Different types of graphene-polymer interactions are also covered through this section. High barrier graphene/polymer nanocomposites and their permeability performances are then discussed. Finally, the future perspectives of graphene/polymer nanocomposites in the food packaging industry and challenges seen on the way are discussed in the last section.

The optical and barrier properties of thin-film encapsulations (TFEs) for top-emitting organic light-emitting diodes (TEOLEDs) were investigated using TFEs fabricated by stacking multiple sets of inorganic–organic layers. The inorganic moisture barrier layers were prepared by atomic layer deposition (ALD) of Al2O3 using trimethylaluminum (TMA) and O3 as precursors and are shown to be efficient barriers against gases and vapors. The organic alucone layers were produced by molecular layer deposition (MLD) using TMA and ethylene glycol as precursors. The [Al2O3:Alucone] ALD/MLD films were used because their adjustable inorganic–organic nanolaminate composition allows for the tuning of the optical properties, thereby enhancing their application potential for the design and fabrication of high performance light out-coupling structures for TEOLEDs. By carefully adjusting the relative thickness ratio of the inorganic–organic encapsulation materials, optimized light extraction was achieved and the films not only maintained their high moisture barrier strength but also showed excellent optical performance.

This study proposes an effective approach for fabricating silane-functionalized TiO2 nanoparticle/silicone resin (SR) composites that exhibit high transparency, high refractive indexes (RIs), high UV aging resistance, and high moisture barrier. The surfaces of TiO2 nanoparticles (TMOS-m-TiO2) were modified by a sol–gel process using tetramethoxyl (octadecyl) silane (TMOS). The TMOS-m-TiO2 exhibited a significant improvement in compatibility with the SR matrix. The TMOS-m-TiO2/SR composite, containing 0.1 phr of TMOS-m-TiO2, maintained an optical transmittance above 80% in the visible wavelength region. The RI increased with the increase of TMOS-m-TiO2 content, and the RI of the 0.10 phr TMOS-m-TiO2/SR composite was 1.566 (the RI of the neat SR was 1.541). Furthermore, the water vapor transmission rate of 0.10 phr TMOS-m-TiO2/SR composite was 32.8% lower than that of neat SR. This approach can be applied for developing high-performance SR composite materials that can be used in various applications, particularly in light-emitting (LED) diode encapsulants.

In this study, the moisture-barrier performance was measured by an electrical calcium test before and after a repeated bending cycle of 10,000 times with various bending radii to investigate the bending properties of multilayer organic–inorganic barriers. We tested a single-layer barrier and three different multilayer-barrier structures. The measured change in barrier performance of the structures was correlated with calculated tensile strain. The calculation predicted the trend of the experimental data on the bending property, and the minimum bending radius seemed to be limited due to a sharp increase in the tensile strain at a bending radius less than 0.5 cm.

Lignin, esterified with palmitic and lauric acid chloride, has been studied for the application as coating on fiber-based packaging material. The aim was to improve the barrier properties against water vapor and oxygen of paperboard. The esterification was followed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography measurements. The lignin esters were applied on paperboard and formed a continuous film. The moisture barrier property of the coated paperboards was characterized by the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). A significant decrease in WVTR was observed, for example, 40 g m-2 (for 24 h) for a paperboard coated with 10.4 g m-2 hardwood kraft lignin palmitate. The contact angle of water on the lignin ester coatings was high and stable. For all paperboard samples coated with lignin esters, a significant decrease in oxygen transmission rate was observed. Accordingly, lignin palmitate and laurate have a high potential as a barrier materials in packaging applications.

Sodium montmorillonite was organized by a series of alkyl quaternary ammonium to make an organic modified montmorillonite (OMMT). The organic montmorillonite-resorcinol-formaldehyde-latex (OMMT/RFL) film was prepared by introducing OMMT into RFL, and aging and curing later. The OMMT was valued by X-ray diffraction and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The adhesion of the OMMT/RFL-coated fiberglass was evaluated using an H-adhesion technique. The mass-gain of OMMT/RFL and the tensile properties of the coated fiberglass were studied under different humidities. The results show that the best moisture resistance could be gained while 16MMT at 1.5 wt%. Compared with the tensile properties of RFL, the tensile strength of OMMT/RFL increases by 21.2%, the tensile modulus by 23.1% under humidity of 98%; the OMMT/RFL displays a better dynamic storage modulus at elevated temperature.

In this study, the adsorptive properties of L-menthol, moisture vapor transmission rate, and mechanical properties of poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), polypropylene (PP), and their blends were evaluated in containers fabricated by injection molding without a compatibilizing agent. These containers intended to hold pharmaceutical solutions containing lipophilic chemicals such as L-menthol. By the addition of a small amount of PP, the moisture barrier properties of PET were effectively improved, but its anti-adsorptive property was reduced. The strength of the PET/PP blends was reduced, but some PET/PP blends were still able to bear the experimental load required for application in eye-drop containers. PET/PP = 9/1 and PET/PP = 8/2 were found to be most applicable for using in the fabrication of containers for medicinal solutions.

Microfibrillated cellulose isolated from bagasse was used to prepare novel nanocomposites using cross-linked gelatin as a biodegradable polymer matrix. Microfibrillated cellulose loadings up to 25% (weight percent) were used. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized regarding their wet and dry tensile strength, water sorption, and water vapor permeability. Nanocomposites’ surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy; the scanning electron microscopy images indicated homogeneous distribution of microfibrillated cellulose in the gelatin matrix. Microfibrillated cellulose improved wet and dry maximum tensile stress and modulus of cross-linked gelatin but resulted in a decrease of its strain at break. Microfibrillated cellulose did not affect the water absorption of cross-linked gelatin but significantly improved its moisture barrier property.

Shellac-hydroxypropyl methylcellulose composite films (Sh-HPMC-CFs) were produced and the effects of emulsifier and shellac concentration on the Sh-HPMC-CFs were investigated. Two emulsifiers, stearic acid (SA) and lauric acid (LA), with three ratios of shellac to emulsifier (100:1, 20:1, and 10:1) were tested to select the best ratio of shellac to emulsifier before testing the effect of shellac concentration. When compared to pure HPMC film, the WVP was decreased by 6 and 11% in the Sh-HPMC-CFs containing shellac to LA (ShLA) ratios of 100:1 and 20:1, respectively. However, all the ShSA-HPMC-CFs had higher WVP than the pure HPMC film. In relation to mechanical properties, the ShLA(20:1)-HPMC-CF had the lowest reduction in TS when compared to a pure HPMC film. Therefore, ShLA(20:1) was selected for further characterization. Surface morphology, cross sectional image, thermal stability, WVP, and mechanical properties of the Sh-HPMC-CFs were also measured at varying shellac concentrations (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5%). The 0.1 and 0.5% Sh-HPMC-CFs had good distribution of shellac in the film structure while the 1.0 and 1.5% Sh-HPMC-CFs exhibited some agglomeration of shellac. The 0.1 and 0.5% Sh-HPMC-CFs had better moisture barrier than the pure HPMC film. All Sh-HPMC-CFs had better thermal stability than the pure HPMC film and its thermal stability increased as shellac concentration increased.

Failure analysis of solar cells and model substrates coated with silicon nitride barrier thin films has led to important conclusions regarding the major factors leading to barrier degradation. Data...

Resume Il est possible de remedier a une carence des complexes lipidiques de la couche cornee grâce a des produits cosmetiques de remplacement. La place preponderante qu'occupent les ceramides parmi les lipides intercellulaires du stratum corneum et dans l'enveloppe des corneocytes nous a conduits a elaborer une suspension aqueuse de ceramides sous forme de liposomes. Ce produit a ete applique et ses effets analyses sur un modele de stratum corneum delipide. La comparaison entre le resultat de cette experimentation et le stratum corneum normal revele a l'echelle ultrastructurale la presence de figures intercellulaires multilamellaires tres semblables dans les deux cas. Les ceramides sous forme de liposomes se sont structurees en feuillets analogues a ceux du ciment naturel. La methode de cryofracture appliquee ici est particulierement adaptee pour visualiser et suivre le devenir de ces ceramides en microscopie electronique. Synopsis The multilamellar structure of intercellular lipids may be examined by cryofracture. These lipids function particularly as a moisture barrier in the stratum corneum (SC) and as an intercellular cement which may be present in excess or be deficient due to physiological abnormalities or external aggression. Any deficiency may be remedied by application of the appropriate cosmetic products. The major role played by ceramides in this cement and in the corneocyte envelope has led to studies of the application of ceramides in the form of liposomes The object of this paper is to visualize on an ultrastructural scale the fate of ceramides applied to a model SC. The following types of SC have been examined: intact SC; SC defatted by chloroform containing methanol; defatted SC treated by ceramide containing liposomes. These three structures were prepared as cryofracture preparations and examined by transmission electron microscopy. The intact SC samples showed the classic intercellular cement in lamellar 5–10 nm minimum thickness. This cement was absent in the defatted SC. After treatment with ceramide liposomes an intercellular lamellar structure similar to that observed in intact SC could be observed. Cryofracture appears to be a technique well adapted to demonstrate the fate of ceramides in electron microscopy.

Newly developed packaging paper made of biopulped pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and poly(lactic acid)(PLA) was studied. PALF packaging sheets were solvent impregnated with PLA at different concentrations in order to improve their moisture barrier and mechanical performance. With the impregnation of PLA at a concentration of 4%, the packaging material exhibited a low moisture uptake and a high tear index. An electron micrograph of the sample at 4% impregnation revealed uniform and packed PLA reversed microsphere morphology. These results suggest that surface coating via biodegradable polymers, such as PLA, may be utilized for manufacturing packaging materials in industrial applications. This new packaging material could reduce the dependency on wood-based paper and plastic-based packaging.

Since moisture loss of popcorn can cause an increase in the number of unpopped kernels, pericarp properties of popcorn hybrids were analyzed to understand factors affecting moisture loss rate during microwave heating. Differential scanning calorimetry profiles of ground pericarp displayed a notable exothermal event, and hybrids with superior microwave popping performance (fewer unpopped kernels) exhibited significantly higher enthalpies. The number of unpopped kernels was highly correlated (r = 0.826, p = 0.011) with pericarp enthalpy values. X-ray analysis confirmed that cellulose and arabinoxylan are the major structural components of the pericarp. Structural changes in cellulose were induced by moisture and heat, and considerable enhancement in crystallinity occurred when the pericarp was heated in the presence of water. Results of this study indicate that the cellulose component of the pericarp is responsible for the development of exothermal events and increased crystallinity. Thus, the propensity of cellulose to form crystalline structures in the popcorn pericarp during microwave heating improves moisture retention and hence popping performance.

Polyethylene film impregnated with lambda-cyhalothrin was placed over a sand plot and covered with a concrete slab to allow insecticide movement into the sand for a period of 5.5 yr. Discs of polyethylene film and sand beneath them were sampled annually for 5 yr and at 5.5 yr for bioassay with the Formosan and eastern subterranean termite. Results demonstrated that sufficient quantities of lambda-cyhalothrin were released from the impregnated polyethylene film into adjacent sand to prevent termite penetration. The impregnated film has less environmental impact than conventional liquid termiticides because the insecticide is held in the polymer. Other advantages include its dual function as a construction moisture barrier and ease in verifying its proper installation.

Flow properties, water retention capacity (WRC), and fat and moisture barrier properties at different temperatures (5, 15 and 25 °C) of a batter formulation containing 1, 1.5 and 2% methylcellulose (MC) were investigated and compared with a commercial batter formulation without MC (control), using squid rings as the food matrix. The Ostwald-de Waele model provided a good fit for the flow behaviour of the batters. MC produced a significant increase in the consistency and shear-thinning behaviour of the batters, this effect being more evident at higher levels of MC addition. MC batters showed a higher WRC than the control, and their WRC increased with MC concentration. It was seen that the temperature at which the prepared batters were held and applied as a coating for the squid rings had a significant effect on the flow properties and WRC, and on the fat and moisture barrier properties developed during the pre-frying step and final frying. Lower temperatures produced a considerable increase in the consistency and WRC of the MC batters. For T =15 °C the flow properties of the 1% MC batter were very similar to those of the control. The MC batters provided final products with significantly less oil absorption and more moisture retention than the control fried battered products. Also, these MC oil and moisture barrier properties seem to be more evident during the pre-frying step (first 30 s), upon contacting the hot oil.

Multiple layer polyolefin-based films continue to be one of the preferred packages for both the food and medical industries. The technology of these films has advanced over the years from simple monolayer structures to multilayer hybrid structures. These affordable packages not only provide tamper proof evidence, but also protection from insects, bacteria, germs, and dust and are very effective in providing moisture and oxygen barrier. This paper will discuss these latter two properties, moisture and oxygen barrier, when polyethylene is used as the primary film component. Many variables affect high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film’s oxygen transmission rates (OTR), and water vapor transmission rates (WVTR). These variables include film crystalline structure, relaxation rates of molten polyethylene, polyethylene manufacturing technology, polyethylene resin physical properties, atmospheric conditions, and film fabrication technology and structure. This paper will describe how permeation rates are measured and how each of the above variables affects the permeation rates.

International audience; Easily degradable organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices based on flexible polymer substrates require barrier films exhibiting extremely low permeation rates for water vapor. We report the barrier properties of hard/ soft alternating layer structures where a soft PMMA layer is sandwiched between two hard SiN x layers. The interfaces between the hard/soft layers hinder the propagation of pinholes from one single-layer to the other and thus have an effect on the overall barrier properties of the whole system. We focus our attention on the effect of increasing number of interfaces on the final barrier properties. The encapsulation barrier properties of these layers are assessed using the electrical calcium test. A minimum water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of ~ 2 × 10 −4 g/m 2 ·day is reported for 7 hard/soft interfaces, which has also high potential for flexible barrier applications.

Low pH (5.2) whey protein isolate-based edible films containing p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) or sorbic acid (SA) were developed and assessed for inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 in a disc diffusion assay. Water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), and percent elongation (%E) were also determined. Using 1.5% PABA and SA, average inhibition zone diameters were 21.8, 14.6, 13.9, and 26.7, 10.5, 9.7 mm for L. monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7, and S. Typhimurium DT104, respectively. Three strains of S. Typhimurium DT104 were resistant to 0.5% SA. Addition of PABA and SA increased %E, but decreased TS. WVP was not affected by 0.5% and 0.75% SA; however, PABA increased WVP. Incorporer des agents antimicrobiens dans des films comestibles est une nouvelle methode pour accroitre l'innocuite et la duree de conservation de produits alimentaires prets a l'emploi. L'acide sorbique et surtout l'acide p-aminobenzoique ont une activite inhibitrice contre L. monocytogenes, E. coli et Salmonella enteridis. Dans cette etude, des films comestibles a base de proteines de lactoserum, a faible pH (5,2), contenant l'un de ces acides sont developpes et testes pour l'inhibition de L. monocytogenes, E. coli et Salmonella typhimurium. 3 souches de S. typhimurium sont resistantes a 0,5% d'acide sorbique. L'addition d'acide p-aminobenzoique et d'acide sorbique augmente le pourcentage d'elongation mais reduit la force de tension. La permeabilite a la vapeur d'eau n'est pas affectee par l'acide sorbique mais augmentee par l'acide p-aminobenzoique.

The ability of the dry ingredient curdlan (0% to 1% w/w) to lower oil uptake and moisture loss in doughnuts during deep-fat frying was compared with that of cellulose derivatives. An index expressing the ratio between oil uptake and moisture loss was developed. The addition of curdlan showed a linear effect on reducing each parameter (p < 0.001) within a range of 0% to 0.5%. This effect of curdlan probably is attributed to its thermal gelling property, and the heat-induced gel during frying probably functioned as an oil and moisture barrier. Cellulose derivatives were less effective than curdlan in this respect.

Silver oxide is currently used to treat isolated spats of bronze disease, forming a seal of silver chloride. The technique is not infallible: an analytical study showed that the conductive properties of the silver chloride seal, together with the comparatively poor moisture barrier formed, are the factors responsible for failure. In the new zinc dust treatment proposed, tough, adherent and relatively stable zinc compounds form an improved barrier, effectively sealing the area of bronze disease. Objects treated with zinc dust were subjected to high humidity for several months and afterwards exposed to a tropical humid environment for four to five years. These objects showed no re-emergence of bronze disease whereas repeated use of silver oxide failed to stabilize the objects. The method developed is simple, less time-consuming, and relatively easy to employ.

Effect of storage conditions and packaging materials on quality parameters of curcuminoids infused coconut and raw banana slices were studied. Moisture sorption study was conducted for the developed products in selected packaging materials namely polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/low density polyethylene terephthalate (LDPE) and metallized PET/LDPE, under ambient and accelerated storage conditions for 90 days. The changes in physical, chemical and sensory parameters of the products were studied during the storage period. The results indicated that 40% relative humidity was critical for storage of products, above which the products required a good moisture barrier to achieve the enhanced shelf-life of the products. In accelerated storage conditions, the moisture content exceeded the critical moisture content for coconut and raw banana slices within 30 days and 15 days, respectively leading to product deterioration. At the end of the storage period the coconut samples packed in PP and PET/LDPE crossed the critical moisture content (3.05%) at ambient storage conditions, whereas, the moisture content of raw banana samples was within the moisture tolerance limit (11.5%). The curcuminoids retention, chroma and total color difference (DE) were significantly higher with better sensory attributes for products packed in metallized PET/LDPE compared to PET/LDPE and PP. Among all the packaging materials studied metallized PET/LDPE was found to be a suitable packaging material for both products. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS The present work deals with the effect of packaging material on physical, chemical and sensory parameters on the products (curcuminoids impregnated coconut and raw banana slices) infused with bioactive compounds. The study reveals the criteria for the selection of packaging materials as well as storage conditions for curcuminoids impregnated coconut and raw banana slices for the higher retention of bioactive compounds, besides fulfilling consumer desire, satisfying industry requirement and maintaining food safety.

The functionality of butterfat can be improved by fractionation, a process that can be considered as enrichment of butterfat with long-chain saturated fatty acids. Model hard fractions were produced by adding tripalmitin to butterfat, in ratios from 0.9:0.1 through 0.1:0.9. The model system had very similar thermal behavior and mechanical properties to true fractions. The phase behavior of tripalmitin/butterfat mixtures was determined. Such butterfat fractions have potential as a moisture barrier in edible films and coatings. Tripalmitin-enriched butterfat is an alternative to hard butterfat fractions in some applications.

Parallel to rapid prototype testing for moisture barrier performance, extensive failure mode analyses of inorganic direct cell coatings for CIGS solar cells have led to important conclusions regarding barrier degradation during exposure. Based on these analyses, a new strategy for direct cell barrier film technology has been developed that eliminates the primary root causes of failure. This approach provides exceptional damp heat stability to CIGS devices, even in the absence of additional encapsulation technology. Evaluation of time-to-failure data resulted in characteristic lifetime estimates of >1500 h at 85°C/85% RH for the new barrier film approach, compared to ∼500 h for various silicon nitride based films under the same conditions. In fact, laboratory scale CIGS devices with the improved direct cell coating show >70% probability of surpassing 1000 h under damp heat stress and several cells have survived >3000 h under these conditions with less than 10% reduction in efficiency.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on vacuum metallizing used in flexible packages. Metallizing is still the most dominant process in packaging and its four main areas of use are decorative or aesthetic, barrier, functional, and security coatings. Decorative coatings for packaging began with the simple metallization of polymer films and papers, which gave the web a bright metallic appearance. This bright metallic web enabled products to be wrapped, boxed, or labeled by using a material that stood out from their competitors. Various methods are used for getting the metallic look onto packages. The most commonly used method is to metallize the whole substrate, such as paper or polymer, and then print or laminate with the printing selectively over the metal to complete the desired design. Barrier coatings is very broad category and includes coatings that reduce light, oxygen, water vapor, or other gas transmittance. Barrier coatings can be divided into two main groups, opaque and transparent barrier coatings. Opaque barrier materials are primarily aluminum metallized coated polymer films. Transparent barrier coatings provide the same oxygen and moisture barrier but have no opacity, which allows consumers to see the products while they are buying them and thus may have some selling advantages. Holographic security labels are the most widely known security packaging application. Some of the other security applications include tamper evident coatings, a whole range of radiofrequency identification labels (RFID), holographic tear tapes, customs and tax stamps, and various color shifting or optical variable devices.

: This chapter addresses protection systems in the form of polymer overlays and moisture barrier systems. Protection systems provide a barrier between the concrete and its environment and are an integral part of their life line.

The influence of film-forming techniques on the moisture barrier efficiency of acetylated MG (AMG) films tested in real conditions at the interface between an agar gel (AG) and sponge cake (SC) was investigated. Three systems were studied: self-supporting films, sprayed films, and cast films. The moisture distribution profiles of the AG/AMG/SC systems were determined experimentally and by using a predictive model for both self-supporting films of various thicknesses and formed-in-place (sprayed or cast) films. Increasing the thickness of the self-supporting films had no influence on moisture barrier efficiency, probably due to the high stability of the AMG material. Formed-in-place films were 40% less efficient than the self-supporting films whatever the application procedure used (spraying or casting) because of their poor integrity due to the roughness of the SC surface.

The short service life of underground residential distribution (URD) cables has led to the development and evaluation of new insulators and cable designs. Some basic comparisons are made between the ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) and cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) families of primary cable insulation. Current insulation systems are briefly described, treeing and water-tree testing are discussed, and the performance of EPR and XLPE insulation is indicated. New design features, and their performance, are described. These features are: (1) improved insulation materials; (2) the use of 133% insulation levels in place of 100%; (3) jacketed constructions; (4) cable-in-conduit systems; (5) filled conductor strand; and (6) moisture barrier or moisture-blocked constructions. >

This work is a contribution to better knowledge of the influence of the structure of films on their functional properties obtained from emulsions based on arabinoxylans, hydrogenated palm kernel oil (HPKO), and emulsifiers. The sucroesters (emulsifiers) have a great effect on the stabilization of the emulsified film structure containing arabinoxylans and hydrogenated palm kernel oil. They improve the moisture barrier properties. Several sucroesters having different esterification degrees were tested. Both lipophilic (90% of di and tri-ester) and hydrophilic (70% of mono-ester) sucrose esters can ensure the stability of the emulsion used to form the film, especially during preparation and drying. These emulsifiers confer good moisture barrier properties to emulsified films.

Background. Occlusive dressings increase the speed of epidermal wound healing by decreasing wound adherence, maintaining a moisture barrier, and allowing contact with healing factors. Objective. To test whether a thin film of silicone and polytetrafluoroethylene blended into an interpenetrating polymer network (SPIPN) can provide improved healing over petrolatum following CO2 laser resurfacing injury. Methods. A bilateral comparison of closed SPIPN versus open healing following two different CO2 laser delivery systems for resurfacing was performed. Twenty patients were followed and evaluated at days 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 30, 60, and 90 for exudate, erythema, rate of epithelialization, pigment changes, postoperative pain, pruritus, cosmetic results, preference, and duration of postoperative complications. Results. Results demonstrated improved healing for SPIPN compared to petrolatum alone. Markedly decreased exudate was seen in 90% of the SPIPN dressing sides. Erythema during the first 72 hours was 1.95 for SPIPN versus 2.6 for open (scale 1–4) (P < .05). Pruritus was 1.67 versus 2.44 (P < .05) for SPIPN versus open during the first 3 days postoperatively. Approximately 75% of the patients preferred SPIPN to control petrolatum. The rate of reepithelialization was also better for the SPIPN dressing, taking only 2 days versus 2.8 days for open control. Approximately 50% of the patients reported decreased pain on the SPIPN side at days 1 and 2. Conclusions. SPIPN dressing provides an easily applied, easily tolerated dressing for use after laser resurfacing. Many patients benefit from faster healing, reduced exudate, better appearance during the postoperative period, and decreased postoperative discomfort.

Competition is forcing food companies to be more aggressive and move new products into the marketplace rapidly. Package developers to meet such time constraints often select packaging for a new product based on best guess choices. The result of such practices is usually over or underpackaging at a substantial cost to the company due to associated product failures, excessive use of packaging materials, and delayed introduction to marketplace. For moisture sensitive foods, the use of a moisture transport model can help package developers to predict the packaging requirements of such foods, avoid problems of the nature described above, and maintain packaging cost at a reasonable level. This paper demonstrates the use of such a model to identify the packaging needs of aspartame sweetened tablets and confirm a 1-year shelf-life prior to product introduction. In our study, the tablets, being an effervescent product, provided a challenge in the effort to generate moisture sorption data needed for the model. Thus, existing experimental procedures were modified and new ones developed to overcome the problems stemming from the effervescent character of the tablets included in this study.