Adhesive-Sealable Barrier Material

New, original, surplus, replacement, and failed components need packaging barriers for transportation and storage. The packaging barrier material must be waterproof, oil-proof, grease-proof, watervapor resistant, puncture-resistant, and in many cases, possess certain electrostatic or electromagnetic barrier properties. The barrier material must be reliable, relatively inexpensive, effective in protecting a variety of object sizes. The present system is a multilayer film composed of laminated polymer layers, some sandwiched around a central aluminum foil layer. This technology is over 15 years old and requires a final heat-seal on-site. Experience in field use has demonstrated a need for a new barrier material closure method which would not require electrical equipment and is tolerant of foreign material in the sealing area. Since the inventions of the current systems, the packaging industry has made large advances in barrier materials, fabrication methods, and packaging sealing. This SBIR Phase I project will address the stated need by surveying state-of-the-art packaging technology, both materials and closure mechanisms. METSS will evaluate materials for potential performance under the specifications MIL-B-131, package resealability, recyclability, and final after-use disposal options. METSS will conduct the necessary laboratory studies to demonstrate feasibility of the best methods to meet or exceed requirements.