Multi layered regulation

It is generally known that only a very limited number of packaging materials such as glass or metal provide absolute protection properties concerning the penetration of chemical compounds from layers behind or from the environment. In the case of multi-layers with plastics materials as functional barriers there occurs, in most cases to a certain extent, an unavoidable mass transfer from the plastics layers into the product. This must be understood as a functional quantity which, however, must comply with food regulations. Therefore it is necessary firstly to understand functional barrier characteristics and mechanisms and, secondly, to define the functional barrier efficiency in relation to food safety and to establish appropriate test methods. This is especially important with those food packaging applications where recycled plastics are covered by plastics functional barriers. 

Multi-layer packaging which includes materials other than plastics, e.g., metals and paper, even if the food contact layer or part of the food contact layer consists of plastic, is currently not covered by any specific legislation. These multi-layer materials are regulated either by national legislation or by Article 3 of the Framework Regulation (EC 2004). Article 3 states that... 

Moreover, energy recovery is probably the best solution for very contaminated and dispersed plastics (for example, the yoghurt pot which is a multi-layered material, with low mass and whose residual content after consumption can be significant). It is tme that the high calorific value of plastics helps regulate the incineration of honsehold waste, improve the quahty of effluents (fewer micropollutants and unbumed compounds in slag) and conserve oil used in the production of heat and electricity. Most European cities are equipped with urban heating networks, which could become possible due to the incineration of urban waste. 

New PVD equipment makes it possible to precisely regulate deposition rates and residual gas pressures t control this process, and even permit multi-layer metal to change appearance and physical properties as needed. 

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