The Foundation for Scientific and Industrial Research at the Norwegian Institute of Technology (SINTEF) is using nanotechnology in the creation of films that improve the transportation of gases through the film, such as the ability to release “dirty air” such as carbon dioxide.
Scientists at SINTEF believe the same technology could be used to block out harmful gases that shorten the shelf life of foods. What would make this important in food packaging is that the films could be made transparent, if the particles in the film are kept smaller than one-half of a micron. Multilayered films or those incorporating oxygen scavengers typically appear less than crystal clear.
However, Anders Hammeborg, research director at SINTEF, admits the use of nanotechnology in food packaging isn’t imminent. He predicts use of the technology could take “10 to 15 years.”
