The FMS-Flexible Bag Analyzer is a non-destructive gas analyzer for monitoring headspace oxygen concentrations in sealed transparent flexible bags and pouches. This compact benchtop instrument utilizes a patented laser absorption technique developed with funding from the Food and Drug Administration.
Light from a near-infrared diode laser is tuned to match an internal absorption frequency of the oxygen molecule and passed through the empty headspace above the product. The amount of laser light absorbed is proportional to the oxygen concentration in the headspace. The measurement method is rapid and non-destructive. These characteristics allow for multiple measurements on the same sample enabling the accurate monitoring of the oxidation of a single sample over time. Because the sample is not destroyed there are no waste disposal issues and potentially valuable product can be saved for other tests.
The analyzer is a robust solid state device and is straightforward to use. Operators do not require special expertise to run the system meaning the accuracy of the measurements does not depend on operator skill.
The Flexible Bag Headspace Analyzer can be used for development & QC laboratory applications as well as for at-line in-process control of headspace oxygen levels in production. Systems can be permanently situated in laboratories for product development, release testing, and QC investigations or implemented at-line in production for in-process monitoring and troubleshooting activities.
Applications include:
• Leak detection
• IPC monitoring of oxygen levels during the filling of oxygen-sensitive product
• Optimization and validation of purging systems on filling lines
• Oxygen degradation studies
• Stability trends, end-of-shelf life studies
