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quality and new technologies
Another example of interactive package is the
CEREpak, by MeadWestvaco (Figure 6.26). It is not only
a package, but a data capture device; it registers day
and time of the removal of every capsule or pill. Those
information are transferred to a computer, through a
special reader, and can be transmitted to the responsible
doctor. The technology includes a microprocessor hidden
in the blister and conductive paints that indicates the
break of each small pill chamber. System technologies
to remind the patient of the medication times can even
be included in the packaging by using light, sound or
vibration.
FIGURE 6.26
Indicator of day and time of
pharmaceutical consume,
interaction device with the pacient
Source: Press Release
6.3 NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY
Nanoscience and nanotechnology are applied
in the development of products at manometric scale
(10
-9
m), which has different properties from those
at macro scale. They promise new solutions for the
challenges of the package sector, especially plastic and
cellulosic, which have limitations in their properties.
They have a huge potential for improving the materials
properties and performance, as well as increase the
package functionalities, in new applications of active
packages (absorbers and emitters), smart packages with
nanosensors (pathogens, gases, abuses, contaminants,
and theft), indicators (freshness, abuses, quality) and on
systems for identification, authenticity and traceability.
An impact of at least US$ 3 trillion by the
nanotechnology is projected in the global economy in 2020
and also the involvement of 6 millions of workers until the
end of the decade (ROCO; MIRKIN; HERSAM, 2012).
There are various types of materials involved
in nanotechnology: nanoclays, carbon nanoparticles/
nanotubes, metals and oxides in manometric scale,
silicate nanoplatelets, nanocomposites (mixture of
nanomaterials and petroleum or renewable sources
polymers), nanocatalysts and, recently, nanocellulose,
amide nanocrystals, chitin, chitosan and other inorganic
materials.
Due to its high aspect ratio (ratio between
length and width), low nanomaterials concentrations
are enough to improve certain properties of polymers
without significantly altering its density, transparency
and, especially, the processing characteristics. The
opportunities for development in this field are great,
but they still require a lot of research and investment.
The target of active and smart packages has
been enlarged to many products categories. Retailers
will have interest in those technologies for increasing
efficiency, reduce losses and keep the quality in the
whole distribution and commercialization chain. The
focus on new development has also changed from
benefits for the producers and retailers, such as shelf
life increase, to customer satisfaction with freshness,
quality and information benefits. It will be a challenge
to the producers to aggregate value to their products
associated with the increase of the deriving cost for the
use of those technologies.
The future of active and smart packages