The Use of the Scanning Electron Microscope in Investigating Container Corrosion by Canned Foods and Beverages

Authors

E. J. Helwig
H. E. Biber

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Abstract

Over the years the canned food industry has experienced corrosion problems with some foods packed in metal containers. Although most of these are minor, the net e ffect can represent significant financial loss in the industry. It is important to determine the cause of these problems, not only to assign proper responsibility but a lso to avoid recurrence of the probl em in the future. The scanning electron microscope SEM, coupled with energy dispersive x-ray microanalysis, plays an important role in these studies. Stress corrosion cracking in packs of tuna and potatoes, pitting corrosion related to light colored fruits, and in sufficient protection because of lacquer defect s are cited as some specific examples of the successful use of the SEM in uncovering reasons for corrosion. Support of other analytical methods occasionally may be required to conclusively establish cause of failure, but often the SEM is the only tool needed in these types of investigations.

Recommended Citation

Helwig, E. J. and Biber, H. E. (1990) "The Use of the Scanning Electron Microscope in Investigating Container Corrosion by Canned Foods and Beverages," Food Structure: Vol. 9: No. 3, Article 2.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/foodmicrostructure/vol9/iss3/2