Kurt Trombley

Abstract

This thesis paper will provide data to show that cyclic olefin copolymer blister film can be used as a beneficial alternative to polyvinyl chloride film which is more commonly used in the pharmaceutical market today. Polyvinyl chloride continues to be a highly controversial packaging material due to potential environmental concerns. Cyclic olefin copolymer is shown to have properties which result in fewer environmental concerns and also can provide the added benefit of an improved barrier to moisture permeation when compared to polyvinyl chloride film. This paper documents a summary of the data on both sides of the polyvinyl chloride environmental debate. It also documents cyclic olefin copolymer's mechanical properties, small and large scale manufacturing data, and potential future developments which will improve the manufacturing of many new film opportunities for cyclic olefin copolymer as well as reduce the manufacturing costs. To date, very little public information could be found documenting data on cyclic olefin copolymer for use as a replacement for polyvinyl chloride, currently used for blister packaging. Most of the data available today has been provided by cyclic olefin copolymer manufacturers instead of industry and/or institutions. The null hypothesis for this thesis is as follows: Cyclic olefin copolymer will not be a beneficial alternative blister film to polyvinyl chloride. It will not address environmental concerns, it will not be able to be formed on small scale equipment without significant modifications, and it will not provide an improved moisture barrier compared to polyvinyl chloride.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Plastic films; Blister packs; Plastics in packaging; Polyolefins; Drugs--Packaging; Polyvinyl chloride--Environmental aspects; Drug packaging industry--Environmental aspects

Publication Date

2001

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology (CAST)

Advisor

Goodwin, Dan

Advisor/Committee Member

Jacobs, Deanna

Advisor/Committee Member

Wise, Pam

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: TP1183.F5 T766 2001

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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