Analysis of Multilayer Plastics By NIR Spectroscopy

Multilayer plastic films used for packaging of food and pharmaceuticals is gaining in popularity. The properties of the multilayer plastic are tailored to the application by adjusting the composition and thickness of the individual layers.

Typically, the core layer provides strength, while the outside layer(s) act as water vapour and/or oxygen barriers. While these barrier layers are essential for maintaining the quality of the packaged product, they are also quite costly. Thus, the ability to monitor and control the thickness of these layers impacts both product quality and overall cost.

Portable near-infrared analysers such as the LabSpec® Pro from Analytical Spectral Devices Inc. are an excellent tool to not only verify the identity of each layer and determine its thickness, but also to verify the identity and quality of incoming raw materials prior to their introduction into the coextrusion process. Due to its flexibility, ruggedness and true portability, LabSpec® Pro is ideally suited to perform these measurements either at-line or near-line, with rapid and precise results ensuring product specifications are more tightly controlled. LabSpec® Pro is a cost effective quality control tool for minimising both the use of costly barrier materials and wastage in the production of out of specification product.