Gases, vapours and liquids can gradually diffuse through the walls of a plastic container. If there is a difference between the partial pressure inside the container and the ambient pressure outside, substances can permeate towards the lower pressure. This can result in an unnoticed loss of quality and volume of the filling product.
Additionally, there is the danger of an explosive atmosphere forming immediately around the container and the container contracting due to severe product loss. This can result in containers that are no longer suitable for transport and present a significant safety hazard.
The permeate is absorbed
by the surface of the packaging
Penetration of pores and
molecular spaces
Adsorbate collects on the boundary
surface and evaporates as gas
Due to the potential effect of permeation during the transport of hazardous goods, legislators have defined very precise regulations for the containers that may be used.
Chapter 4.1.1.2 of the existing Transport Act (see the international IMDG Code and regional rules and standards, such as ADR) stipulates:
Those parts of the packaging, including bulk packaging (IBC) and large packaging units, which come into immediate contact with dangerous goods:
(c) must prevent the permeation of dangerous goods which could present a hazard under normal transport conditions.
If necessary these containers must be equipped with a suitable inner layer or treatment.
Thanks to our innovative 6-layer technology for inner bottles, we are the first producer worldwide to offer IBCs with an integrated EVOH permeation barrier. Protect the quality of your filling products and prevent safety risks and environmental contamination. Enjoy greater flexibility and more economic efficiency in your supply chain.
Instead of an integrated EVOH barrier, Intermediate Bulk Containers and PE drums from the SCHÜTZ range can also be protected against permeation in an additional process step. SMP treated plastic containers ensure complete safety during transport, economical storage and high resistance to solvents. In return, the environment benefits from the extremely low rates of permeation. The superior mechanical properties of HDPE, including tensile strength, resistance to expansion, hardness, resistance to cracking as well as thermal properties and low-temperature behaviours are not affected by the SMP treatment.
