Physical polymer surface modification methods and applications in food packaging polymers

Continued innovations in the polymer industry have made polymer surface mod ification methods a subject of intense research. The importance and necessi ty of surface modification of plastics are explained, and the advantages of physical surface treatments over the less-sophisticated chemical methods a re outlined. Currently available physical surface modification methods for food packaging polymers are reviewed from the food packaging perspective. T hese physical surface modification methods include flame, corona discharge, UV, gamma-ray, electron beam, ion beam, plasma, and laser treatments. The principle of operation of each method is briefly described, and the advanta ges and disadvantages of each technique are cited. The extent to which each of these methods can produce the specific modifications desired is discuss ed. Furthermore, the effects of each treatment on barrier, mechanical, and adhesion properties of food packaging polymers are also examined. Finally, an overview of economic aspects of sophisticated surface modification techn iques, including ion beam, plasma, and laser treatments, is presented.