Oxygen scavenger

An oxygen absorber
The contents of an oxygen absorber from a packet of beef jerky

Oxygen scavengers or oxygen absorbers are added to enclosed packaging to help remove or decrease the level of oxygen in the package. They are used to help maintain product safety and extend shelf life.[1] There are many types of oxygen absorbers available to cover a wide array of applications.[2][3]

The components of an oxygen absorber vary according to intended use, the water activity of the product being preserved, and other factors. Often the oxygen absorber or scavenger is enclosed in a porous sachet or packet but it can also be part of packaging films and structures.[4] Others are part of a polymer structure.[5]

Oxygen absorbing chemicals are also commonly added to boiler feedwater used in boiler systems, to reduce corrosion of components within the system.[6]

  1. ^ Miltz, J.; Perry, M. (2005). "Evaluation of the performance of iron-based oxygen scavengers, with comments on their optimal applications". Packaging Technology and Science. 18: 21–27. doi:10.1002/pts.671. S2CID 97578421.
  2. ^ Tewari, G.; Jayas, D. S.; Jeremiah, L. E.; Holley, R. A. (2002). "Absorption kinetics of oxygen scavengers". International Journal of Food Science and Technology. 37 (2): 209–217. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2621.2002.00558.x.
  3. ^ MacDonald, Jameyson. "Oxygen Absorbers Facts" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 2 December 2020. Retrieved 3 December 2013.
  4. ^ Ferrari, M C; S. Carranzaa; R.T. Bonnecazea; K.K. Tunga; B.D. Freemana; D.R. Paula (2009). "Modeling of oxygen scavenging for improved barrier behavior: Blend films" (PDF). Journal of Membrane Science. 329 (1–2): 183–192. doi:10.1016/j.memsci.2008.12.030. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 September 2013. Retrieved 20 September 2013.
  5. ^ US 5660761, Katsumoto, Kiyoshi, "Oxygen scavenging layer consisting of oxidizable compound, second, separate layer consisting of oxidation catalyst", published 26 Aug 1997 
  6. ^ Shokre, A (2023). "Principles, operational challenges, and perspectives in boiler feedwater treatment process". Environmental Advances. 48. Bibcode:2023EnvAd..1300389S. doi:10.1016/j.envadv.2023.100389. Retrieved 14 October 2023.