Water Packaging Evaluation and Optimization

By thoroughly evaluating and optimizing water packaging, CD BioSciences empowers our clients to deliver safe, high-quality drinking water to consumers while minimizing the environmental impact.

Introduction to Water Packaging

Water packaging encompasses an extremely wide range of materials, and the quality, odor, and safety of the water are intrinsically linked to the properties and interactions of these packaging systems. From the production and supply process to the water's contact with various materials, such as plastics, synthetic pipes, fittings, and protective coatings, every component of the water packaging system can potentially impact the final product's characteristics and human health.

Fig. 1 Analysis of microplastics in water by micro-Raman spectroscopy. (Schymanski D., et al., 2018)

The Crucial Role of Water Packaging

Plastic

Plastic water bottles may seem convenient, but the environmental toll of their production and disposal is significant. The manufacturing process relies on the refining and processing of non-renewable crude oil and natural gas, contributing to a substantial carbon footprint. Furthermore, less than 9% of all plastic produced globally is actually recycled, with the majority ending up in landfills, oceans, and natural waterways, where they can take decades to decompose.

Aluminum

While aluminum cans offer a lightweight and potentially recyclable alternative to plastic, the production of virgin aluminum is an energy-intensive process that can lead to greenhouse gas emissions, especially if the energy source is fossil-fuel based. However, recycling used aluminum cans can significantly reduce the energy consumption and emissions associated with their production, making them a more sustainable option when properly recycled.

Glass

Glass bottles, with their unlimited recyclability, appear to be a more environmentally friendly choice for water packaging. Yet, the energy-intensive manufacturing process and potential for breakage during transportation present their own set of challenges. Additionally, the declining rates of glass recycling in some regions can limit its overall sustainability benefits.

Boxed Water and Cartons

Carton-based water packaging, such as those made from paper, can be a renewable and lightweight alternative. However, the presence of additional materials, like plastic and aluminum, in some aseptic cartons can complicate the recycling process, rendering them less sustainable if the local infrastructure cannot properly handle these multi-material components.

Our Services

At the core of CD BioSciences' water packaging evaluation and optimization services is our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of water quality and safety. We employ a multi-faceted approach, leveraging advanced analytical techniques to assess a wide range of indicators, including:

• Odor Analysis
  The odor of drinking water is primarily caused by the presence of organic substances, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can migrate from the packaging materials into the water over time. CD BioSciences conducts comprehensive odor analysis, quantifying the levels of these compounds and evaluating the overall impact on the water's sensory properties.
• Chemical Indicators
  Our team of experts analyzes a broad range of chemical parameters in the packaged drinking water, including pH, ionic concentrations, total organic carbon (TOC), conductivity, and the concentrations of various anions and cations (e.g., Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Cl-, and SO42-). We then utilize advanced statistical methods, such as principal component analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis, to identify the correlations between water quality and the specific packaging materials used.
• Microbial Indicators
  The production process and the barrier properties of different packaging materials can influence the potential risk of microbial contamination in the packaged drinking water. CD BioSciences assesses the microbial indicators in the water samples to evaluate the safety and suitability of the packaging materials.

CD BioSciences specializes in the comprehensive evaluation of a diverse range of water packaging materials, including:

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyamide (PA)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyethylene Glycol Terephthalate (PET)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene Film (PP Film)
• Polycarbonate (PC)

Each of these materials offers unique properties, advantages, and potential drawbacks when used for water packaging. Our team of experts meticulously analyzes the performance, safety, and compatibility of these materials, providing our clients with the insights they need to make informed decisions.

Why Choose Us?

CD BioSciences' expertise extends beyond just the evaluation of the packaging materials themselves. We also provide guidance on the selection, design, and use of water packaging systems to ensure that the final drinking water product not only meets the highest standards of quality and safety but also aligns with growing consumer demands for sustainable and environmentally conscious solutions. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more information.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.