MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF GAS EXCHANGE IN MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING

ABSTRACT Laboratory experiments were performed to determine gas exchanges through perforations. Empirical equations were developed to predict the effective permeabilities to CO2 and O2 for different values of diameter, thickness, and temperature. A computer program was developed to simulate gas exchange for three kinds of package covering: permeable polymeric film; perforation with impermeable film; and perforation with permeable polymeric film. Simulation results provide answers to the appropriate package for the storage of broccoli and strawberries under modified atmosphere.