Vapor-phase migration of DiBP and DBP through barrier-coated paperboard: Correlation between a permeation test method and simulated migration

The aim of the study was to construct a correlation between a permeation test method that simulates the migration of organic vapors and the actual migration of chemical contaminants from barrier-coated paperboard packaging. A correlation of this nature would enable manufacturers of barrier-coated paperboard to estimate the barrier properties of paperboard on a quality control level. A direct correlation was not plausible because the migration mechanisms that apply to the permeation test method and the actual migration differ. However, an indirect correlation was established. The permeation test method gave an indication of film integrity, whereas the actual migration was found to be rather dependent on coating weight. The spiking method, testing temperature, and vapor pressure of the contaminants were found to be variables directly affecting the validity of the correlation between permeation and migration methods.