Abstract: A compound permitting the economic production of packaging containers, which when activated produces concentrated amounts of CO2 gas for extended periods for preservation of perishable products therein, comprises a mixture including a CO2 generating portion incorporated within a polymer matrix. Preferably, the mixture includes citric acid; calcium carbonate, and polyethylene resin. More preferably, the mixture includes a mixture of a carboxylic acid (0.1-40%); a hydrogen carbonate (0.1-40%) and any polyolefin resin. Even more preferably, the mixture includes a mixture including (0.01-40%) Citric Acid; (0.01-40%); and 30-75% polyethylene resin. Most preferably, the mixture includes by weight 12% citric acid; 38% calcium carbonate; and 50% low density polyethylene resin with a melt index of 20 and a density of 0.924 g/cc. Alternatively, the carboxylic acid and hydrogen carbonate components are compounded into separate polymer matrixes, and later combined.

Abstract: A method and means for enhancing the inner environment of a package containing perishable merchandise include taking a closable package containing perishable merchandise and placing in the package a multi-layered sheet including a plurality of layers comprised of moisture absorbing materials to absorb any residual moisture emanating from the perishable merchandise. The multi-layered sheet includes a quantity of CO2 generating material incorporated therein. The CO2 generating material is exposable to humidity and any residual moisture within the package and any moisture absorbing material to allow the CO2 generating material to emit an atmosphere of CO2 within the package from exposure to moisture within the air in the package, and to absorb any residual moisture in the package.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for modifying an atmosphere in proximity to the device, the device comprising a sachet comprising a semipermeable material, and a composition including a mixture of acetylsalicylic acid and sodium bicarbonate contained within a cavity of the sachet. The invention further provides methods for modifying an atmosphere comprising placing a mixture of a carboxylic acid and a base in the atmosphere, wherein the atmosphere has a sufficient level of water vapor such that, upon contact of the water vapor with the mixture, carbon dioxide is produced.