Abstract:

It is very important to determine the barrier properties of packaging and other synthetic materials to protect oxygen sensitive foods, pharmaceuticals, and technical applications. Therefore, new and innovative methods in material research are required for oxygen permeation measurements to characterize special synthetic films. A novel approach is the non-invasive, non-destructive measurement of oxygen permeability with chemical optical sensor technology. These measurement systems are easy to apply and can be handled without special training. Oxygen ingress in filled or empty packaging for most food applications can be determined. Another advantage is, that these sensors can be used to measure breathable as well as high barrier films. Furthermore, the development of an ultra low oxygen sensor, type PSt9, now enables applying this technology in material research for technical applications, like photovoltaic modules, or vacuum insulation panels.