Controlled atmosphere

The articles CA-Cell , CA-Lager and Controlled Atmosphere thematically overlap. Help me to better differentiate or merge the articles (→ instructions ) . To do this, take part in the relevant redundancy discussion . Please remove this module only after the redundancy has been completely processed and do not forget to include the relevant entry on the redundancy discussion page{{ Done | 1 = ~~~~}}to mark. M. Krafft ( discussion ) 21:56, Nov. 16, 2014 (CET)

With Controlled Atmosphere ( CA ) is defined as the control of air gases and the temperature in a transport or storage space to a variation of the transported goods to prevent or to change targeted to it (Purpose: accelerating ripening). Depending on the product, in addition to the storage temperature, the volume proportions of oxygen , nitrogen , carbon dioxide and ethylene in the air and also the humidity are regulated. The use of CA is already known to extend the shelf life of fruit , vegetables and flowers .

History & current development

This method has been known in stationary use for decades (see also CA storage ). For example, it is used by apple growers in the "Altes Land". The use of CA in the mobile area using refrigerated trailers and refrigerated containers is relatively new .

Effect, ULO

The decisive factor for this is a significantly lower oxygen content (below 5%) than in the air we breathe (around 20%) (“ultra low oxygen”, ULO). Due to the low proportion of oxygen in the ambient air, the metabolism of perishable goods such as vegetables is lengthened and the ripening process of fruit is greatly slowed down. This is accelerated again in the destination port / destination by increasing the proportion of ethylene by volume. The control of the humidity in the transport room ensures that the fruits do not dry out.

application

Coffee, nuts, dried fruit, spices, tobacco and precious woods could be transported in containers under CA in order to be protected from pests on the way. The transport of meat is still in the test stage.

Economic benefit

Sensitive goods that previously had to be transported by costly air can now be transported by cheaper sea freight. The use of the CA ultimately also enables the period of time for transport from the dealer to delivery to the end user to be extended.

Ecological benefits

Lower CO ₂ emissions for sea transport compared to air transport. Partial waiver of post-treatment with pesticides and fungicides.

Future prospects

The current increase in world transport volume through container shipping will also lead to the increased use of reefer containers with CA use.

Sources / Links