This powerful permeation model predicts the performance of packaging for liquids under a broad range of conditions.

The CONTAINER SCIENCE® umbrella includes the M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages. Introduced in 2002, this M-RULE® permeation prediction model is a robust and flexible tool that is widely used by the packaging industry.

Proven superiority to empirical models

The M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages provides a unique and proven approach to permeation prediction. Unlike empirical models that rely on a database of permeation values to derive results, the M-RULE® Model is a fundamental model based on first-principles prediction of the diffusion and solubility of gases. The M-RULE® Model calculations are based on the application of physical laws and fundamental science via numerical integration.

Because of this fundamental approach, the M-RULE® Model can simulate scenarios and provide predictions well beyond the range of test data available to empirical models.

Simultaneous analysis of all permeation factors

The M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages inherently accounts for all the factors that affect permeation, including concentration-dependent diffusion, temperature, polymer crystallinity, orientation, stress and stress relaxation. The model simultaneously calculates the migration of O₂, N₂, CO₂ and H₂O and continually revises the diffusivities and solubilities of each of these permeants as a function of the above factors.

Analysis of additional factors

The M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages incorporates temperature dependent Vitamin C oxidation. It predicts volume expansion and creep as a function of pressure and polymer modulus. It includes all the major barrier technology options, including plasma coatings, oxygen scavengers, multilayers, blends and nanocomposites.

An important consideration for any product is the environment to which the package and product will be exposed. Real-time simulation of all these different environments is virtually impossible in a laboratory environment. But, with the M-RULE® Model, users can simulate the full range of real environmental conditions experienced by their packaged products, including conditions in different markets and climates during filling, storage, and distribution. Users can assess the impact of those conditions on product shelf-life.

Flexibility to explore many packaging opportunities

The M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages is a powerful tool for new package development, strategic analysis of alternative technologies, assessment of competitive materials and packages, package authorizations, light-weighting programs with existing packages, barrier technology development, and materials research and development.

Cost-effective, accurate, and secure

The M-RULE® Model simulates far more packaging options and a far greater range of environmental conditions than could ever be addressed using physical prototypes. Thus, users of M-RULE® can quickly assess opportunities for cost savings and shelf-life extension without the need to first create and evaluate physical prototypes.

Since its introduction in 2002, the accuracy of the M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages has been validated by users across the world through extensive comparison to data generated from real-life packages.

The M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages is accessed via a secure, user-friendly, web-based interface. All pages of the M-RULE® application are secured via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) SHA-256 encryption technology. M-RULE® resides on powerful servers that are hosted at a premier, secure data center and are used for M-RULE® exclusively.

Subscription basis

When you subscribe to the M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages, you gain unlimited access to the capabilities identified in your subscription contract for the specified contract period. Subscriptions provide company-wide, 24/7 access to the M-RULE® Model via a secure internet site. There are a number of different subscription levels available, so that you can tailor the service to meet your specific needs.

Overview (PDF)

To read, print and/or download a more detailed description of the M-RULE® Container Performance Model for Beverages, please click on the Overview button below.