Cold Chain Packaging - Phase Change Material
 |
Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are substances with a high heat of fusion that melt and solidify at a predetermined temperature. For instance, water is the most common phase change material, changing phase from liquid to solid at 32°F (0°C).
Through our cold chain partner TCP Reliable/Cryopak®, EFP Corporation offers a variety of phase change materials formulated to meet specific cold chain packaging requirements. These materials are designed to maximize temperature control inside a shipping container:
- Exo-Gel keeps your products in the 20°C to 30°C range. The product becomes solid below 22°C and melts above 32°C
- Ice Pak bottles typically come in standard sizes from 4 ounces to 4 pounds. Phase change is at 0°C. This material is usually found in standard gel-pack type refrigerants.
- Phase 5 is designed for use with the common 2°-8°C transit requirements. This PCM will change phase at 5°C, the midpoint in the 2°-8°C profile. Phase 5 is available in panels, which can be used individually or connected to form a protective cube. They hold 5°C longer than conventional PCMs and so require less material, which keeps your package small and light.
- Phase 22 keeps products between 20°–24°C during shipment. It’s ideal for applications where your payload must remain in the 20°C–30°C range.
- 20 Below is a specialty gel designed to be a safe and effective alternative to dry ice. Phase change occurs at -20°C. It can also be used to extend dry ice transit times and, depending on conditions in the pack, can add hours to a dry ice transit time.
EFP Corporation’s phase change materials come in a variety of sizes and shapes. For best results, these products should be tested in a package design that combines the proper insulation material and refrigerants to meet your specific need. Contact EFP today for help in building the best packaging solution for your application.
