Air pollution regulations The California Air Resources Board is looking to bring in directives at the beginning of 2010 to reduce the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air pollution. To help manufacturers prepare for future restrictions, Crown and Ultramotive have created a dispensing system that relies on compressed air as the propellant instead of hydrocarbons. Suitable for gels and personal care products, the recyclable technology is also designed to appeal to today's environmentally conscious customers. Environmentally-friendly features Crown president Raymond MacGowan said: "The use of compressed air reduces VOC's and in turn, decreases the impact on the environment. "Combined with the fact that metal packaging can be infinitely recycled with absolutely no loss or alteration in quality, the EarthSafe Dispensing System offers significant brand benefits to packaged goods companies." Additional highlights Crown claims that the system also has an advanced valve technology that ensures the contents can be applied precisely and without accidental spills or mess. The company said the product has other performance enhancing features including a multi-layer barrier piston that prevents gas from penetrating and therefore extends shelf life. In addition the system has a universal grommet that creates an airtight seal enabling lower pressure to be used to discharge the contents. Patented by the president of Ultramotive, Chris Scheindel, the technology is expected to be introduced to the industry in the spring of 2009.
