Structural Analysis

What is the purpose of structural determination in packaging?

The determination of packaging structure refers to the process of identifying the type, thickness, additives, and physical properties of materials such as polymers, metals, paper, and ceramics used in packaging materials. This analysis is closely related to food and consumer health, as there is a risk of undesirable substances transferring into food when packaging comes into contact with it.

The structural determination of packaging is a critical control process that directly impacts food safety, shelf life, and quality. Accurate and comprehensive determination of the material's type, thickness, and properties builds trust between manufacturers and consumers. This safeguards public health and minimizes the risk of foodborne hazards.

Methods of Structural Determination

Structural determination is performed through the combined application of analytical and spectroscopic methods:

• FT-IR Spectroscopy: Used for identifying functional groups and molecular bonds in materials.
• RAMAN Spectroscopy: Provides a more precise and fingerprint-like representation of the material's structure.
• Thermal Analysis (DSC, TGA): Reveals physical properties such as the material's heating and decomposition temperatures.
• Microscopy (SEM, TEM): Examines the microstructure and thickness of the material's surface and cross-sections.
• Chemical Analysis (GC, HPLC): Identifies substances remaining in the material that may interact with food, and quantifies their amounts.

Regulations and Standards

EU and national regulations contain numerous requirements and restrictions regarding substances permitted in food contact packaging materials, as well as migration limits and material thicknesses.

Furthermore, international standards such as EU 10/2011, EU 1935/2004, and BRC Packaging stipulate specific quality and safety requirements for packaging materials and their composition.

Structural Determination Analysis: HR Hummel Polymer and Additives, HR Raman Polymer Library, Hummel Polymer Sample Library

Nanolab – Your Reliable Partner for Packaging Analyses

Nanolab offers a comprehensive range of services for the structural determination, migration, thickness, and surface analysis of packaging materials used in the food, cosmetic, and industrial sectors. Leveraging our state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and expert team, we deliver reliable analyses in accordance with applicable regulations and within specified deadlines.