Oxygen Absorption Properties of Powdered Iron

ABSTRACT Powdered iron with a particle size < 10 μm was used as the basic oxygen scavenging system in air‐filled glass containers. The scavenger was tested unpackaged or sealed in polyethylene pouches. Scavenger concentration and packaging system affected rates of oxygen removal. Relative humidity markedly influenced the effectiveness of the oxygen scavenger system. At 98% RH, oxygen concentration in air‐filled containers reached 1.6% after 21 hr, while one‐half of the oxygen remained at 65% RH. Overall, the data suggest =1 to 1.5% oxygen removed per hour at 22 ± 2°C depending on the RH values of the system.