Volatile organic compounds in LDPE films and air during extrusion coating

During polyethylene extrusion processing, large amounts of unpleasant odors develop. LDPE lined aluminum cast film samples were made at two different extrusion temperatures to identify the VOCs formed during processing to the inner layer of test pouches of cardboard/aluminum/polyethylene laminate. A specially treated extrusion coating sample was analyzed to study the ability of an additive to reduce off-flavors. During extrusion coating, considerable volatile decomposition products spread into the surrounding air.VOCs and offensive odor compounds in the extrusion coating samples and air were studied using integrated sensory and analytical methods. Sample analysis used gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer methods. Application: Extrusion coating conditions play important roles in control of odor producing VOCs.