Why Use a Fluorinated Bottle or Jug?

We stock four sizes of F style rectangular jugs made with white high density polyethylene.  The distinction that sets these jugs apart from other plastic jugs is that they are fluorinated.  The question then becomes “why would I want to use a fluorinated jug”?  One of the more important reasons would be to stop permeation.  The mechanism for solvent permeation in a polymer happens in a series of stages:  solvent wetting of the polymer surface, dissolution of the solvent into the polymer, diffusion of the solvent through the polymer, and evaporation of the solvent.  A short explanation of permeation means that some active ingredients of the product will pass through the container and thus evaporate leaving the product compromised.  This permeation can also cause paneling, the sidewalls of the bottle getting sucked in or deformed.  Please note however, that permeation is only one cause of paneling, there are several others.

These containers are fluorinated in-line.  This is a process adapted to standard blow-molding technology to produce an effective permeation barrier at the inner walls of plastic containers.  Unlike post treatment processes, which require container reheating and may result in distortion or dimensional changes, barrier treatment occurs during the normal blow-mold cycle as the container is being formed.  This results in a permanent chemical modification of the container surface.  It does not leave a residue or cause discoloration.  The treated surface then becomes highly resistant to deterioration from chemical attack or mechanical abrasion. The fluorination treatment can also increase product shelf life, product consistency and container integrity.

Applications that have produced a demand for fluorinated containers are:

  • insecticides
  • herbicides
  • petroleum-based products such as gasoline and kerosene
  • cleaning solvents
  • automotive additives
  • penetrating oils
  • paint related products

Other reasons to use a fluorinated container would be to reduce loss of fragrances or flavors, container discoloration and label blistering. We strongly recommend testing of your product in the fluorinated container.  As always, it is the responsibility of the shipper to be sure that his product is compatible with the container being used.

Fluorinated containers are used in a diverse customer base of manufacturers and products including:

  • cosmetics
  • food and beverage
  • fragrances
  • health care products
  • pharmaceuticals
  • agriculture
  • automotive
  • fuels, additives and lubricants
  • industrial and household chemicals
  • electronics
  • fuel tanks
  • lawn and garden chemicals and products
  • paints and coatings

You could certainly use a glass container, rather than plastic, to solve these problems, however you would be adding substantial cost both with the cost of the glass and the increased cost of shipping because of the weight of the glass.  By using a barrier treatment, such as fluorination, you can help keep these costs under control.

 F Style Fluorinated Jugs w/Handles

 For a list of caps, please click here.

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Categories: plastic bottles | plastic jars | plastic jugs

Author: Gail

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