The Changing Acidity of the Oceans

Last Updated on Tuesday, 26 May 2015 11:01 Written by Albert Greenhut Friday, 13 December 2013 07:50

sea freight

The world’s oldest living creature was recently discovered, it was an Ocean Quahog, named Ming. It was found near Iceland and was determined to be 507 years old. It was born just after Columbus first crossed the Atlantic and lived to have seen many great changes in its life. From 1751 to 1994 the oceans are estimated to have gotten 30% more acidic, and over the past 25 years 12% more acidic. This changing acidity of the oceans was recently the focus of an article in the Economist which brought to light some of the changes that we are likely to see. As of now, I already know that shipping on the sea is difficult and the increase in acidity will only bring about more challenges.

The ever-present moisture and chlorides provide a tough atmosphere from which to protect against rust, corrosion, and degradation. We at Engineered Materials, Inc. have responded to the challenge by recommending our 8 Mil Intercept Shrink Film. This Shrink Film creates a safe reactive barrier on the outside as well as a micro-environment inside of the package.  This INTERCEPT created micro-environment is then free from atmospheric pollutants that cause corrosion and degradation.

Shipping via sea also provides numerous other problems that Intercept Shrink Film is in a unique position to combat. First, in one trip an ocean liner can encounter a wide range of environments, from artic cold to equatorial heat. Intercept Shrink Film has been tested in these conditions and performs. Second, the Shrink Film provides flexibility and reduces wind resistance. Because it is shrunk to the product it is protecting it is not a loose material, so it does not flap in the strong winds, which can rip film as well as damage the product being protected. This means that the same product can be stored on a ship’s deck or in a cargo hold.  Additionally, sea freight items need to be ready to comply with multiple countries laws. Intercept Technology uses no oils, greases, or volatiles and is fully recyclable. Additionally, we can provide access points so customs officials can inspect cargo without needing to unwrap it.

I am in no position to predict what the future will bring for the seas, but if the only constant is change, shouldn’t the packaging that you rely on be as adaptable as possible? Our products stand up to elevated levels of pollutants in varying environments all over the world and we have confidence that they will continue to do so. If you have any challenges with your current methods please contact us for a consultation.

INTERCEPT is simply better protection when it comes to sea transport.