Limonene and Myrcene Sorption into Refillable Polyethylene Terephtalate Bottles, and Washing Effects on Removal of Sorbed Compounds

The sorption of two orange volatile compounds, myrcene and limonene, into refillable polyethylene terephtalate bottles, different types of polyethylene terephtalate strips, and polycarbonate strips, was studied. The bottles were washed with sodium hydroxide solutions and remaining aromas in the plastic were analyzed. Sorption continued during the 12 wks storage, but the major part was sorbed during the first week. Bottles stored at 25°C absorbed considerably more myrcene and limonene than bottles stored at 4°C. A simulated industrial washing procedure removed small amounts of the aromas but 50–80% remained in the packaging material. Polycarbonate absorbed flavors to a much larger extent than did polyethylene terephtalate.