Antimicrobial Films

The task of antimicrobial films for food packaging is to reduce or to avoid the growth of micro-organisms on the surface of foodstuffs. This is an important step to preserve the quality and to prolong shelf life. The antimicrobial effect can be generated via release of small amounts of active compounds from the packaging film onto the surface of the packed goods. Recent developments at the Fraunhofer Institute led to efficient antimicrobial coatings based on food compatible constituents, which can be applied as an upgrade to many conventional food packaging films.

Aim of the present AiF-project is to vary and improve the coating to yield a surface, which is antimicrobial active and can be at the same time used as a sealing layer. The active components will be Benzoic or Sorbic acid, which are allowed to be used in food and plastic materials as well. The basic material should be also food compatible. The application of the coating should be performed by means of conventional lacquering technology.