1. The sensor spot: an optically-based, non-invasive integrity test for modified atmosphere packaging
S. te Lintel Hekkert, PhD
This is the opening slide, you need to say you elevator pitch (one sentence project summary)
Use short, easy to remember name.
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List members’ names 1

2. Problem: food spoilage
2 billion € annually in the Netherlands: due to leaks in MAP between packaging and retail
Estimations of MAP packages having leaks or wrong gas mixtures: up to 3%
100% check of packages will result in a huge reduction of food spoilage

3. Current procedure
Few samples of batches of MAP packed products are tested in an invasive manner
When test results are negative, the whole batch is destroyed or re-packed
This leads to an enormous waste of good food products and increase in packaging costs

4. Solution: smart films
Analyze oxygen level in the MAP products after packaging in a non-destructive manner
Enabling fast, on-line detection of bad sealing
Result: 100% control, minimal waste

5. Measuring principle O2* O2 Luminescent dye
Illuminate spot with UV (405nm)
Detect red light (650nm)

6. Concept: smart film with sensor spot
Optical method based on variable luminescence of the sensor
A laminate prevents direct contact of the sensor spot with the food inside the package
The spot is printed with industrial printers allowing cheap mass production (estimated price: < €/spot)
Stickers available
Oxygen barrier 6

7. Detection unit 7

8. Response time Response time for 25µm laminate Moving spots air
nitrogen
Response time for 25µm laminate Moving spots

9. Life time measurement
air
nitrogen
Automatic correction for variations in background
Dr. S. te Lintel Hekkert E: T: +31 (0)

10. Sensitivity of the sensor spot
(one package measured 20 x)
 (µs)
[O2] (%)
Without moving
57.52 ± 0.15
0.25 ± 0.04
Replace package between measurements
57.4 ± 0.2
0.31 ± 0.06

11. Oxygen penetration after puncturing
The produced holes  0.3 mm2

12. Distribution of packages with leaks directly after start of the packaging machine
No leaks were detected within one day.
Leaks became apparent after
3-15 days

13. Spatial O2 measurements with a sensor spot on a seal

14. Conclusion Inexpensive sensor for oxygen in MAP
Now 100% check is possible
Reduce costs of packaging and food spoilage
Consultancy

15. Dr. Sacco te Lintel Hekkert
The team
Ir. Arthur Vaanhold
mechanical engineer
Business development
Dr. Marc Staal
Microbiologist
Product development
Dr. Sacco te Lintel Hekkert
Physicist
Product development
Mr. Mark Giesbers
Lawyer
Business development
Lamers Productions
Film development
Read out unit
Stickers