Plastic packaging solutions manufacturer Caps & Closures has launched ThermoShield which, it says, can safeguard cold chain products using thermochromic (TC) materials that signal temperature fluctuations by changing colour.
Designed for any product where quality is dependent on temperature, ThermoShield is BPA and phthalate-free, and has certification for safe food contact.
According to Caps & Closures, smart packaging made from TC materials such as ThermoShield can significantly improve the quality of storage and transport to reduce food waste from spoilage.
ThermoShield caps indicate “It’s warm or cooler in here” by rapidly changing colour at a preset temperature built into the cap. A temperature change of approximately 30°C is needed for the TC material to change colour, while activation temperature points range from low refrigeration type temperatures through to normal body temperatures and extremely high temperatures.
ThermoShield colour change can be reversible or non-reversible – in other words, once triggered, the colour change is permanent.
the thermochromic colour will transit into it’s original colour (right). Note – this colour guide only serves as a reference and not the final outcome.
The company says that, with temperature switch points between -20°C and +70°C, and a huge colour transition range, brand owners can personalise their products and improve the product’s freshness and ultimately avoid waste.
It says that a simple process is involved for choosing closure type, trigger temperature, colour transitions and volume needed. There is also the option to customise the multi-stage TC effect through the pigment manufacturer.
ThermoShield is said to be ideal for use in a wide variety of cold and cool chain products from perishable goods such as food products, through to pharmaceuticals, health, wellness and beauty, paints and coatings. Other applications can include labelling with touch-activated and cold -activated thermochromatic ink.
