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Relationships between processing-structure-migration properties for recycled polypropylene in food packaging
L Incarnato1, L Di Maio, D Acierno
1Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica e Alimentare, Università di Salerno, Italy.
Food Additives and Contaminants
|May 29, 1998
Summary
Recycled polypropylene (PP) shows potential for food packaging. This study analyzed its processing, structure, and migration properties after food contamination and recycling, confirming its suitability for reuse.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Food Packaging Technology
Background:
- Recycled polypropylene (PP) is increasingly considered for food packaging.
- Understanding the impact of recycling on PP properties is crucial for safe application.
- Food contamination and subsequent washing are common challenges in PP recycling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationships between processing, structure, and migration properties of recycled PP.
- To evaluate the suitability of recycled PP for food packaging applications.
- To assess the effect of molecular weight on the properties of recycled PP.
Main Methods:
- Recycled PP containers were contaminated with food, washed, and reprocessed via injection molding.
- Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) was used to analyze molecular weight changes.
- Mechanical testing and total migration tests were performed on recycled PP samples.
Main Results:
- The recycling process impacts the structure and properties of PP.
- Recycled PP samples were analyzed for molecular weight, mechanical strength, and migration.
- Studies were conducted on both low molecular weight (LMW) and high molecular weight (HMW) PP.
Conclusions:
- Recycled PP demonstrates potential for food packaging applications.
- The study provides insights into the behavior of recycled PP after reprocessing.
- Further evaluation is needed to fully establish the safety and efficacy of recycled PP in food contact.