Brasil Pack Trends 2020

BrasilPackTrends2020 162 qual ity and new technologies Applications of nanomaterials in oxygen absorbers are commercially done by: NanoBioMatter, ColorMatrix, Honeywell, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, Toyo Seikan (SIRIUS oxygen-scavenger technology), Multisorb Technologies Inc., among other companies. The O2Block by NanoBioMatters is an oxygen absorber additive which physicochemical treatment allows it to be dispersed directly on various polymeric systems (Figure 6.29). The technology is based on the surface modification of a clay which becomes functional with active iron to work as an oxygen absorber. Nanoclay is used as the carrier of the active iron, which provides synergy to the oxygen absorber system. The companyHoneywell sells a family of nylon-based barrier resins, called Aegis, based on nanotechnology, with two oxygen absorbers grades: Aegis® OXCE for PET bottle for beer and scented alcoholic beverages and Aegis® HFX for PET bottles for hot filling, used for juices, teas and condiments, like ketchup. The incorporation of nanoparticles such as zinc oxide and ionic silver in nanocomposites for packages and coatings has antimicrobial action. The nanomaterials have been the target of researches for the development of packages with antimicrobial function, working directly at the microbiological growth inhibition as bactericides, such as ionic silver, or as antibiotics vehicles and other agents that eliminates fungi and bacteria. Titanium dioxide can be used as plastic packages coating with action over fecal coliforms. It can also be used combined with ionic silver. The chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin (a polysaccharide present on crustaceans carapace), also has antimicrobial properties and can be used in active nanocomposites. It is expected that the nanotechnology will cause a big impact on the active packages field. FIGURE 6.29 Oxygen absorber additive for polymers Source: Press Release Active packages: oxygen absorbers and antimicrobials Sensors include receptor and transducer elements, which mean that they detect changes and can work according to a command associated to the intensity of the measured alteration. The indicators represent a more passive form of nanotechnology application, as they only communicate and inform over visual alterations, especially color changes. Various technological applications are results of sensors and indicators combination. Some examples are the sensors for detection of pathogenic microorganisms, toxins and contaminants; nanoparticles for selective remotion of pathogenics and contaminants by specific adhesion; and active antimicrobial agents such as metallic oxides (SCOTT; CHEN, 2003). Bionanosensors use sensitive biological materials such DNA, antibodies and enzymes, associated to physical and chemical transducers, which convert the biological signal into a processable Smart packages: nanosensors and nanoindicators