Barrier, Adsorptive, and Mechanical Properties of Containers Molded from PET/PP Blends for Use in Pharmaceutical Solutions

Abstract

In this study, the adsorptive properties of L-menthol, moisture vapor transmission rate, and mechanical properties of poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), polypropylene (PP), and their blends were evaluated in containers fabricated by injection molding without a compatibilizing agent. These containers intended to hold pharmaceutical solutions containing lipophilic chemicals such as L-menthol. By the addition of a small amount of PP, the moisture barrier properties of PET were effectively improved, but its anti-adsorptive property was reduced. The strength of the PET/PP blends was reduced, but some PET/PP blends were still able to bear the experimental load required for application in eye-drop containers. PET/PP = 9/1 and PET/PP = 8/2 were found to be most applicable for using in the fabrication of containers for medicinal solutions.