Physical polymer surface modification methods and applications in food packaging polymers

• Published in: Critical reviews in food science and nutrition Vol. 39; no. 5; pp. 457 - 477
• Main Authors: Ozdemir, M, Yurteri, C.U, Sadikoglu, H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Colchester TAYLOR & FRANCIS 01.01.1999; Taylor & Francis
• Subjects: Application fields; Applied sciences; Biological and medical sciences; classification; corona discharge; corona discharge treatment; economic analysis; economics; electron beam; electrons; Exact sciences and technology; flame; flame treatment; Food industries; food packaging; Food Packaging - economics; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; gamma radiation; gamma-ray; General aspects; Handling, storage, packaging, transport; heat treatment; ion beam; ionization; laser; lasers; literature reviews; packaging materials; plasma; plasma treatment; plastics; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Polymers; Polymers - classification; radiation effects; surface modification; Surface Properties; Surface Properties - radiation effects; surface treatment; Technology of polymers; ultraviolet radiation; Modification; Material science; Physical dressing; Packaging material; Ion beam; Electron beam; Polymer; Review; Laser irradiation; Surface treatment; Plasma application; Gamma irradiation; Ion irradiation; Ultraviolet irradiation; Technology; Plastic bag packaging; Electron irradiation; Food industry; Properties of materials; Corona effect; Flame
• ISSN: 1040-8398; 1549-7852
• DOI: 10.1080/10408699991279240

Continued innovations in the polymer industry have made polymer surface modification methods a subject of intense research. The importance and necessity of surface modification of plastics are explained, and the advantages of physical surface treatments over the less-sophisticated chemical methods are outlined. Currently available physical surface modification methods for food packaging polymers are reviewed from the food packaging perspective. These physical surface modification methods include flame, corona discharge. UV, gamma-ray, electron beam, ion beam, plasma, and laser treatments. The principle of operation of each method is briefly described, and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique are cited. The extent to which each of these methods can produce the specific modifications desired is discussed. Furthermore, the effects of each treatment on barrier, mechanical, and adhesion properties of food packaging polymers are also examined. Finally, an overview of economic aspects of sophisticated surface modification techniques, including ion beam, plasma, and laser treatments, is presented.