Oxygen and carbon dioxide permeability of wheat gluten film: Effect of relative humidity and temperature

The combined effect of relative humidity (RH) and temperature on O-2 and CO2 permeability and selectivity (CO2 to O-2 permeability ratio) of a wheat gluten film was evaluated using response surface methodology. Studied ranges of RH and temperature were 0-100% and 3-45 degrees C, respectively. CO2 and O-2 permeabilities ranged from 88 to 55 580 and from 77 to 1970 amol m(-1) s(-1) Pa-1, respectively. RH had an exponential effect on the CO2 and O-2 permeabilities and selectivities of wheat gluten film. The effect of temperature appeared to be less pronounced in comparison with that of RH. High selectivity values (28 at 24 degrees C and 100% RH) of wheat gluten films would be very advantageous for fresh fruit and vegetable preservation under modified atmospheres.