Novel plasma technology for food
Plasma science is a highly interdisciplinary field because of its widespread applications. Research is motivated by developing a detailed understanding of the application of specific phenomena that may have important consequences for practical applications. In line with this, the objectives of the EC funded PLASMATECH were to coordinate European technologies in the plasma technology field. Project partners collected, structured and managed information between different sectors of industry and research in order to apply them specifically to the areas of health, food and environment. As expected, the merging of technologies from different sectors yielded new industrial applications. Innovation in packaging is progressing at a meteoric rate fuelled by plasma technology. Smart coatings respond actively to their environments, for example in regard to light and heat sensitivity. Another instance is that of barrier coatings for plastic and metallic packaging. The prevention of food contamination by packaging is an important area and the research team investigated barrier films on polyethylene against organic solvents and oxygen. Plasma is involved in food processing itself, including sterilisation and manipulation of food properties including wettability and solubility. Treatment of industrial equipment is another major area of application for plasma technology. In this sector, the team investigated procedures involving sterilisation of filtration coatings and waste gas treatment from food production. Advances in the science of low temperature plasmas have, and will continue to produce great societal benefits. Project partners are looking for further research and development support. Extending the frontiers of plasma technology can enhance European standards in industry overall, preserve the environment and develop processes to reduce the impact of dangerous chemicals on health.
