Abstract: A method for removing perfluorinated compounds from a fluoropolymer material is provided. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing the fluoropolymer material in a chamber; (b) providing an anaerobic environment in the chamber; and (c) providing a fluorination gas in the chamber, thereby exposing the fluoropolymer material to the fluorination gas. The method results in the removal the perfluorinated compounds from the fluoropolymer material.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for reducing extractables from plastic articles and improving barrier properties of such plastic articles. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing a plastic article in a chamber; and (b) providing a fluorination gas and a second gas, such as oxygen or another halogen other than fluorine, in a chamber, thereby exposing the plastic article to the fluorination gas and the second gas. The method produces a treated plastic article that is both low in extractable components and suitable for use in packaging formulations containing an organic ingredient.

Abstract: A method for the direct fluorination of plastics and articles made from plastics is presented. The novel method includes ensuring extremely low oxygen and moisture content in the chamber before the primary fluorination step, ramping the fluorine concentration during the fluorination step, and providing a quenching step for improved shelf-life. Containers processed by the novel method demonstrate a marked improvement in barrier properties for organic solutions.

Abstract: A method for the direct fluorination of plastics and articles made from plastics is presented. The novel method includes ensuring extremely low oxygen and moisture content in the chamber before the primary fluorination step, ramping the fluorine concentration during the fluorination step, and providing a quenching step for improved shelf-life. Containers processed by the novel method demonstrate a marked improvement in barrier properties for organic solutions.