New Standard Set in Oxygen Barriers

New Standard Set in Oxygen Barriers

ColorMatrix's latest innovation looks set to raise the bar in Oxygen Barrier Technology.

In response to ever-evolving market requirements for improving and customizing PET Packaging, ColorMatrix are developing HyGuard™ - an Oxygen Scavenging technology which is incorporated into preforms at the injection moulding stage and initiated by a novel triggering mechanism at the point of filling. For the converter, this important development reduces the amount of scavenger required whilst increasing production performance by eliminating any loss of activity between the blow molding and container filling stages.

Apart from the clear performance benefits, this unique process opens up a whole new range of options for what is becoming known as "dial-up shelf life". Hyguard™ oxygen scavenging technology now means that empty containers can be stored indefinitely giving maximum flexibility for managing empty bottle inventory.

Dr Steve Tattum, ColorMatrix's, Global Market Development Manager for Packaging explains "the required shelf-life for any specific product will depend on market factors as well as ambient storage and shipment conditions which can create a multitude of options. The nature of the whole package, container and closure, also has a role to play. HyGuard™ offers a complete container/closure solution that gives the flexibility to set the degree of product protection at almost any level required."

As the issue of light weighting of containers features higher up the PET agenda, HyGuard™ also offers a valuable solution for a future that looks set on demanding ever increasing levels of barrier protection. For thin walled and smaller volume containers this is particularly significant.

Unlike some oxygen scavengers, aesthetically Hyguard™ has been shown to have minimal impact on container sidewall clarity and haze. Consequently, the impact of the PET container's ability to be recycled is also negligible.

For oxygen scavenging, particularly in packaging of fresh and natural products, thin walled and lightweight containers, colorless containers, and sensitive beverages such as juices, teas and enhanced waters, HyGuard™ has broken the mold.