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Evaluation of a biodegradable foam for protective packaging applications
Author(s) -
Arif Samina,
Burgess Gary,
Narayan Ramani,
Harte Bruce
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
packaging technology and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.365
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1099-1522
pISSN - 0894-3214
DOI - 10.1002/pts.770
Subject(s) - cushioning , materials science , composite material , moisture , relative humidity , water content , thermal resistance , starch , thermal insulation , thermal , chemistry , food science , physics , geotechnical engineering , layer (electronics) , meteorology , engineering , thermodynamics
Green Cell ® foam (GCF) is a biodegradable foam packaging material produced from a proprietary cornstarch blend. It is commercially available in a variety of laminations and constructions. Cushioning ability and thermal resistance (R‐value) are the fundamental properties needed to compete against synthetic foams. Since GCF is starch based and biodegradable, a concern was that moisture would likely affect its physical properties. Cushioning characteristics and insulation R‐values of 1 and 2 inch foams were determined as a function of temperature and moisture content. The ASTM method D1596 was used to determine the cushioning properties and an ice melt test was used to determine the thermal resistance. Moisture sorption isotherms were developed at three temperatures (20, 25 and 30°C) to determine its moisture sensitivity. The 1‐inch‐thick foam had lower G values at lower static stresses than synthetic foams, but had higher G values at higher static stresses. The 2‐inch‐foam had G values similar to that of synthetic foam materials. Dimensional changes were observed at higher relative humidity (RH) conditions, especially at 30°C. The R‐values at higher humidities were also less than that of synthetic materials. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.