Packaging Materials & Processes Flashcards

In rotogravure printing used for flexible packaging, the image is carried by:

Answer: Recessed cells etched into a cylinder

Rotogravure uses tiny recessed cells engraved into a cylinder to hold ink, which is then transferred to the substrate.

Which test method measures the force required to separate two sealed plies of flexible packaging film?

Answer: Peel adhesion test

The peel adhesion test (ASTM F88) measures seal strength by pulling apart bonded film layers at a controlled angle and speed.

Which glass forming process is most suitable for producing wide-mouth jars used for peanut butter?

Answer: Press-and-blow process

The press-and-blow process uses a plunger to press the gob into a parison mold, enabling production of wide-mouth containers with uniform wall thickness.

What property of aluminum foil makes it the preferred material for blister packaging of pharmaceutical tablets?

Answer: Near-zero moisture vapor transmission rate

Aluminum foil provides near-zero MVTR and OTR, protecting moisture-sensitive pharmaceutical products throughout their shelf life.

In injection molding, what causes 'sink marks' on the surface of a plastic container?

Answer: Insufficient packing pressure after injection

Sink marks form when insufficient packing pressure allows the outer skin to collapse inward as the thick interior cools and shrinks.

What is the McKee formula used to estimate in corrugated packaging design?

Answer: Box compression strength

The McKee formula estimates box compression strength (BCT) based on edgewise crush test (ECT) values, box perimeter, and caliper.

Which metal can coating system is specifically designed to prevent sulfur staining in canned protein products like tuna?

Answer: Oleoresinous (C-enamel) coating

C-enamel (oleoresinous) coatings contain zinc oxide that reacts preferentially with sulfur compounds from proteins, preventing black iron sulfide staining.