The effect of adding virgin fibres (pine and eucalyptus) to a recycled pulp used to manufacture liner paper for corrugated board was studied. The paper strength improved with the proportion of virgin fibres added. Pine fibres yielded higher increments than eucalyptus fibres in tensile and burst indices, whereas both fibres similarly improved compression strength. After exposure at refrigerated storage (6°C and 90% RH), paper strength properties decreased considerably, in particular compression strength, which showed a loss of about 70%.

This study examined low acceleration, long-duration horizontal events occurring during over-the-road truck transport. From these events, composite test profiles were developed based on field-measured levels which can be used to evaluate unit load stability for this distribution channel.

The submicron coating of Ca-alginate films with linseed or sunflower oil created superior properties in comparison with micro-coating. Continuous and noncontinuous layers of oils were formed in submicron- and micro-coated films, respectively. Reduced water vapour permeability (WVP), wettability and water vapour absorption was obtained for submicron-coated films, while the micro-coating of alginate films did not improve water barrier properties.

A small droplet of toluene-doped oil is added onto a sample surface. After a short while, the sample is turned vertically (to remove the oil) and then placed in a headspace vial. The amount of toluene in the residual oil on the sample is tested using headspace gas chromatography at a full-evaporation condition, from which the oleophobicity of the sample surface can be determined.

The effect of a typical reference and some alternative packaging materials on the shelf life of two shelf-stable products, cookies and milk powder, was evaluated. Cookies were packaged in PP film, acryl-coated PVdC/PP film and metallized PP film. Moisture content and texture evolution in the different materials were evaluated. Milk powder was packaged in unsealed PE bags, sealed PE bags, two multilayer bags and an aluminium laminate bag. Moisture content, lipid oxidation and colour were monitored.