Evaluating Packaging Performance in Challenging Conditions 

At METS Lab, we provide a complete suite of Thermal and Environmental Testing services designed to assess how packaging materials behave under heat, cold, humidity, and light exposure. From food and pharmaceuticals to industrial goods, packaging must endure a wide range of environmental stresses while maintaining integrity, safety, and performance. 

Understanding a material’s thermal characteristics—such as melting point, thermal stability, and specific heat capacity—is vital when designing packaging that must perform in varied climates, storage environments, or during transport. Our laboratory uses state-of-the-art techniques to simulate real-world conditions and deliver reliable data that helps guide material selection, quality control, and regulatory compliance. 

Our Core Thermal & Environmental Testing Capabilities 

Melting Point and Glass Transition (DSC Analysis) 

Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), we determine the melting point and glass transition temperature (Tg) of packaging polymers. These thermal transitions indicate how a material behaves at elevated temperatures—essential for thermoformed packaging, hot-fill processes, and storage in hot climates. 

Specific Heat Capacity Measurement (DSC Method) 

Specific heat capacity is a fundamental thermal property that measures how much heat energy a material can absorb before its temperature rises. This is particularly important for evaluating how packaging responds to rapid temperature changes or heat processing. Knowing the specific heat helps optimize thermal processing parameters and ensures product protection. 

Thermal Stability (TGA Analysis) 

With Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), we evaluate material decomposition and weight loss at increasing temperatures. This test determines the thermal degradation temperature, offering insights into long-term heat resistance and suitability for high-temperature environments. 

Heat Seal Strength (ASTM F88) 

Seal strength is vital for ensuring packaging remains intact under thermal stress. We test heat seal strength in accordance with ASTM F88, helping manufacturers identify optimal sealing temperatures and ensure seal integrity in flexible and laminated packaging. 

Shrinkage and Warpage Testing 

We assess how materials respond to thermal expansion and contraction, identifying dimensional instability issues such as shrinkage and warpage. This is particularly useful for evaluating thermoformed trays, molded components, and multilayer films. 

Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC) 

Environmental Stress Cracking is a key failure mode caused by the combined effect of mechanical load and chemical exposure. Our ESC testing helps identify vulnerable materials before failures occur in real-world use—especially for rigid packaging exposed to oils, detergents, or alcohol-based products. 

Accelerated Aging and Weathering 

We simulate UV light, temperature cycling, and high humidity to test packaging durability under accelerated aging conditions. These tests help predict product shelf life and verify resistance to fading, brittleness, and performance loss over time.