Eastman Chemical (Kingsport, TN) found a way to incorporate a UV inhibitor into the polymer chain of its PET material, and the result is Vitiva PET. Because it is not an additive, there is no chance of the inhibitor leaching into beverages. According to company sources, bottled beverages are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light at many points in the supply chain. Studies show that UV exposure can degrade the delicate flavors, colors, and vitamins commonly found in sports and energy drinks, fruit juices, and fortified waters. The new material eliminates the need for an extra step to add UV resistance.

Eastman says that Vitiva PET blocks nearly all UV light up to 370 nm. In-depth studies at Eastman on popular sports beverages and fruit juices show that colorants such as FD&C Red #40 and FD&C Blue #1 begin to degrade after only a few hours in the sun or under a UV lamp. Vitamins C and B6, among others, also show a considerable decrease in their efficacy after short UV exposure. Products with 370 nm of UV protection, however, remained undamaged even after prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

A drop-in replacement for standard PET, the new material requires no extra capital investment in machinery or tooling, according to Eastman, and produces no plateout on molds or dryers.?MM

Eastman Chemical
(423) 229-2000
www.eastman.com

IMM - June 2006