MXPA97005759A - Seal integrity evaluation method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for testing for leaks in sealed containers. The method comprises:(a) inserting a first electrode into a sealed container containing an electrolyte product composition, wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in a manner such that it is at least partially mmersed in the electrolyte product composition;(b) immersing the sealed container into an electrolyte bath solution contained in a vessel, wherein the electrolyte bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed into the electrolyte bath solution in a manner such that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolyte bath solution, the interior seal surface of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolyte product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not in direct contact with the electrolyte bath solution;(c) connecting the first electrode and the second electrode to either a source of direct electric current or a conductivity measuring device;and (d) measuring the electric current flow or conductivity from one electrode to the other;wherein the sealed container is not leaking if there is no electric current flowing or conductivity between the two electrodes, and the sealed container is leaking if there is electric current flowing or conductivity between the two electrodes. The present invention further relates to an apparatus capable of detecting seal leaks in this manner.

Description

METHOD FOR EVALUATING THE INTEGRITY OF A SEAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a method for evaluating the integrity of a seal of a sealed container. The integrity of the seal is evaluated by measuring the conductivity through the sealed container, as it is at least partially immersed in an electrolytic solution. The present invention also relates to an apparatus useful for evaluating the integrity of the seal of a container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Sealed containers that have seals that can be opened are used in numerous applications. For example, sealed containers are used for beverages, food and / or industrial products. The seals of these sealed containers allow users of the products contained in the sealed containers, easy access to the contents of the product. Especially beneficial are the seals that can be sealed again after opening. These resealable seals are typically in REF: 25269 the shape of caps and provide a great interest of convenience and numerous benefits. Its main function is to provide containers that are sealed again after they are initially opened. This function is particularly beneficial when the product contained in the sealed containers is a food item. The resealable seal allows the consumer to consume the desired portion of the packaged food item and store the remainder of the food item for later consumption. A problem with such sealed containers is that they can leak. This is especially true for plastic containers. The leaks may be in the range of obvious leaks until icrofugas. For plastic containers, leaks are mainly due to processing conditions such as heat exposure, finishing abrasions, fill temperature, head space, pull interval, and inversion. Of course, when the sealed container leaks, this can cause contamination of the product contained in the container, which is of particular interest when the product is a food product. It would therefore be desirable to prepare a method for testing leaks in such sealed containers. It could also be desirable if such a method were simple, easy to carry out, and cheap. The present invention provides such a method and an apparatus for carrying out such a method.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Electrolytic cells are taught in introductory courses in chemistry and in textbooks. For example, Chemical Principáis W. Masterson and E. Slowinski, W. B. Saunders Company, Philadelphia (1977). The technique also teaches methods to test the integrity of seals. The article "Emphasis on Networking for Added Security", Anón., Pac ag. News, Jan. 1994, pp. 24-25, describes the new non-destructive equipment for testing seals, used to inspect seals in vacuum packages. The equipment applies pressure to a completed vacuum package, and using an electronic system measures changes, and minimum variations in container pressure, to detect irregularities in the seal. The article "The Status of Leak Detection", R. Kelsey, Food Drug Packaging, vol. 54, no. 11, Nov. 1990, pp. 8, 10-11, 18, 21, describes numerous methods for the detection of seal leaks. Included in the methods for leak detection in the seals, described, are the pressure reduction test methods, and the methods for the deformation test of the container. Also in the article a method is described where a test product is immersed in a water bath. As the test product is passed through a Bubble Detection unit, air bubbles escaping from a leak are directed into special channels that align large bubbles and even very small bubbles. The bubbles are counted as they interrupt a fiber optic light beam and is recorded by a photosensor. In another described method "used to inspect ampoules, is the use of high voltage electric currents that "wash" the surfaces of these small containers. Even the smallest holes, the minute cracking, the capillary pores or the insufficient glass wall thickness, are plotted by this method of spark test dispersion, at high frequency "Ibid. In 15. However, nothing in the technique teaches a method to test the seal of sealed containers containing electrolyte compositions, to determine if the seal leaks.The technique also does not teach a simple method, easy to carry out, and inexpensive to test such leaks in the seals. Also, it does not teach an apparatus for testing leaks in seals of sealed containers containing electrolytic compositions.Therefore, a further object of the present invention is to provide such a simple, easy-to-carry method, and inexpensive to test leaks in the seals in sealed containers, which have seals that can be opened and that contain electrolytic product compositions. of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for testing such leaks in seals. These objects are achieved by the invention described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a method for testing leaks in sealed containers containing electrolyte product compositions, and which have seals that can be opened, the method comprising: (a) the insertion of a first electrode in a sealed container , wherein the sealed container has a seal that can be opened, and that has a hole through which the first electrode can be inserted, wherein the sealed container and the seal do not conduct electricity, wherein the sealed container contains a composition of electrolytic product, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in such a way that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolytic product composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; (b) Immersing the sealed container in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a container, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed in the solution of the electrolytic bath, in such a way that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the solution of the electrolytic bath, the inner sealing surface of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution; (c) the first electrode and the second electrode are connected to a source of direct electric current, where an electrode is connected to the direct electric current source, in such a way that the electrons are passed from the electric current source direct to the electrode, and the other electrode is connected to the direct electric current source, in such a way that the electrons are passed from the electrode to the source of direct electric current; and (d) the conductivity is measured from one electrode to the other; where the seal and the sealed container do not leak, if there is no electric current flowing from one electrode to the other, and the seal and / or the sealed container leaks if there is an electric current flowing from one electrode to the other . The present invention further relates to a method for testing leaks in sealed containers containing electrolyte product compositions, and which have seals that can be opened, said method comprising: (a) the insertion of a first electrode into a container sealed, wherein the sealed container has a seal that can be opened and that has a hole through which the first electrode can be inserted, where the sealed container and the seal do not conduct electricity, where the sealed container contains a electrolytic product composition, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in a manner such that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolyte product composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; •, (b) the immersion of the sealed container in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a container, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed in the bath solution electrolyte in such a way that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution, the surface of the inner seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not in direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution; (c) connecting the first electrode and the second electrode to a conductivity measuring device, wherein an electrode is connected to the conductivity measuring device, in such a way that the electrons can pass from one electrode to the other electrode through the seal or sealed container, when the seal or sealed container leaks; and (d) the measurement of conductivity, from one electrode to the other, where the seal and the sealed container do not leak if there is no measured flow of electrons from one electrode to the other, and the seal and / or sealed container it is leaking if there is a flow of electrons from one electrode to the other. The present invention further relates to an apparatus capable of detecting leaks in the seal in sealed containers having seals, which can be opened and which contain electrolyte product compositions, said apparatus comprises a means for carrying out any of the methods previously described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic drawing showing an industrial embodiment of the method and apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the articles used to place and retain the first electrode partially submerged in the electrolyte product contained in the sealed container.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In Figure 1, a fragmentary view of a container 14 is shown to allow the viewer to see its interior from the side. With reference to Figure 1, a first electrode 1 is inserted into a sealed container 2. In Figure 1 the sealed container 2 is in the form of a beverage bottle and the first electrode 1 is in the form of a temperature probe. copper. The sealed container 2 contains an electrolyte composition 3, in which Figure 1 is in the form of an electrolyte beverage. The first electrode 1 is inserted into the sealed container 2 through a hole 19 (seen in Figure 2) in the sealed container 2. The first electrode 1 is inserted into the sealed container 2 in such a way that the first electrode 1 is partially submerged in the composition 3 of electrolytic product, contained in the sealed container 2. The first electrode 1 is spatially fixed in its partially submerged position by a first electrode assembly device 7 'coupled to the sealed container 2. The first device 7 Electrode assembly has a passage 18 - (seen in Figure 2) through its center. The first electrode 1 is connected to a first wire 4 capable of conducting electric current, which in turn is connected to a direct electric current source 5. In FIG. 1, the direct electric current source 5 is in the form of a battery. The first wire 4 is connected to the positive terminal 6 of the direct electric current source 5. The sealed container 2 is retained in a fixed spatial position by means of means for placing the sealing container 2 in such a way that it is partially submerged in an electrolytic bath solution 9, with the seal 8 of the sealing vessel 2 which is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9, and the first electrode 1 is not submerged or in direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution 9. The means shown in Figure 1 for retaining the sealed container 2 in a fixed spatial position is a sealed container assembly device 10, which is releasably connected to a sealed container end 2 and attached at the other end to an arm 11. The arm 11 is fixedly mounted to a surface (not shown). The electrolytic bath solution 9 is maintained in a container 14. The container 14 is shown in a fragmentary view. A second wire 12 capable of conducting the electric current is connected, at one end to the negative terminal 17 of the direct electric current source 5, and at the other end to a second electrode 13, which is immersed in the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath. In Figure 1, the second electrode 13 is in the form of a galvanized metal plate. The second electrode 13 is coupled on one side to a support member 15, and on the other side to a support member 16. Each of the support members 15 and 16 are coupled to the container 14. With reference to Figure 2 , the first mounting device 7 of the first electrode is in the shape of a ring. The mounting device 7 of the first electrode is coupled to the sealed container 2 in such a way that the passage 18 through the mounting device 7 of the first electrode is axial with a hole 19 in the sealed container 2. The first electrode 1 is inserted through the passage 18 in the center of the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and through the hole 19 in the sealed container 2. The cylindrical internal wall 20 of the passage 18 through the mounting device 7 of the first electrode is flexible , rigid enough to retain the first electrode 1 in a selected position through friction. • The device 7 for mounting the first electrode forms a leak-proof seal with the sealing container 2, and the first electrode 1 forms a leak-proof seal with the cylindrical internal wall 20 of the passage 18, through the device 7 assembly of the first electrode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention comprises a method for testing the leakage of a seal 8 in sealed containers 2 having seals 8 which can be opened and which contain compositions 3 of electrolytic product. The test method of the present invention involves the measurement of the conductivity of a system incorporating the sealed container 2. The method of the present invention is a destructive method, wherein the sealed container 2, particular, is destroyed and can not be destroyed. used additionally in commerce. This method is useful in the stratified sampling of sealed containers 2, which are prepared1 for commercial sale, to determine the degree of leakage in seal 8, found for the particular batch-of sealed containers 2 that are prepared. This information can be used to identify any potential production problems. This method is also useful in general in the evaluation of the reliability of sealed containers 2 in different applications and uses, and offered by different container suppliers. In the method of the present invention, a first electrode 1 is inserted into a sealed container 2 containing an electrolyte product composition 3. The sealing container 2 has a seal 8 which can be opened. The seal 8 and the sealing vessel 2 do not conduct electricity. This non-conductive property can be achieved by making the seal 8 and the sealing container 2 out of a material or materials that do not conduct electricity, or the seal 8 and the sealing container 2 must be electrically isolated. Examples of stamps useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, plastic caps, plastic covers, foil induction seals, pull tab seals, bottle caps or bottle caps, snap cap seals, seals Conductive film, flexible laminated seals, and releasable seals. Preferably the seal 8 is resealable and can be closed in such a manner that when closed, it provides a seal against leakage, to prevent leakage of the electrolyte product content from the sealing container 2. Examples of such releasable seals include , but are not limited to, metal and plastic caps and lids with threads, closing devices for pressure and push opening, spray pump nozzles capable of being closed in the secured position, with caps and lids plastic and threaded metal, to which reference is made. Any type of sealed container 2 can be used in the method of the present invention, with the proviso that the sealing container 2 meets the non-conductivity or insulation requirements described above. Examples of useful sealed containers 2 include, but are not limited to, glass or plastic bottles, flexible packages, foil packages, and cans, with the glass and plastic bottles that are preferred in the present invention. The first electrode 1 can be made of any material capable of conducting an electric current. Examples of useful materials include, but are not limited to, copper, silver, gold, aluminum, iron and steel, with copper, aluminum and steel being preferred, and copper being the most preferred. Upon insertion of the first electrode 1 into the sealing container 2, a hole 19 is made in the sealing container 2, and the first electrode 1 is inserted through the hole 19. The hole 19 can be made anywhere on the sealing vessel 2, with the proviso that the hole 19 does not alter the seal 8 from its original sealed state. The hole 19 can be placed in a manner where it is not partially immersed in the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath, when the sealing vessel 2 is partially immersed in the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath. Alternatively, the hole 19 can be completely immersed in the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath if a mounting device 7 of the first electrode is coupled to the hole 19, in a manner to form a leak-proof seal between the hole 19 and the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and between the hole 19 and the first electrode 1, and with the proviso that the first electrode 1 is not in direct electrical contact with the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath. The first electrode 1 is inserted into the sealed container 2 through the hole 19 in the sealing container 2 in such a way that it is at least partially immersed in the composition 3 of the electrolytic product, contained in the sealing container 2. The first electrode 1 is retained in this partially submerged position by a mounting device 7 of the first electrode. The mounting device 7 of the first electrode acts to retain the first electrode 1 in a fixed spatial position relative to the sealed container 2. As a non-limiting example of the mounting device 7 of the first electrode and its operation, the first electrode 1 can be retained in place by a first clamp or fixed clamp, which is the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and the sealing container 2 can be held in place by a second fixed clamp, which is the mounting device 10. of the sealed container. Preferably, the mounting device 7 of the first electrode is directly coupled to the sealed container 2, and has a passage 18 through its center. This preferred first electrode mounting device is coupled to the sealing vessel 2 in such a way that the passage 18 through the mounting device 7 of the first electrode is placed in relation to the hole 19 in the sealing vessel 2, to allow the first electrode 1 to be inserted through the passage 18 in the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and inside the sealing container 2, with the first electrode 1 being at least partially submerged in the product composition electrolytic contained in the sealed container 2. Preferably, the passage 18 through the mounting device 7 of the first preferred electrode is aligned coaxially with the hole 19 in the sealed container 2. The walls of this mounting device 7 of the first electrode , preferred, are flexible enough to deform, to allow the first electrode 1 to pass through the passage 18 in the mounting device 7. of the first electrode, while maintaining contact between the walls and the first electrode 1, in at least two points, and are sufficiently rigid to retain the first electrode 1, in a fixed spatial position relative to the sealing container 2. The device 7 of the first electrode is also preferably coupled to the sealing container 2 in such a manner as to form a leak-proof seal between the mounting device 7 of the first electrode and the sealed container 2. Even more preferred is a assembly 7 of the first electrode which also forms a leak-tight seal between it and the first electrode 1, when the first electrode 1 is inserted through the passage 18 in the mounting device 7 of the first electrode. Examples of mounting devices 7 of the first electrode, useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, clamps or functional clamping packs. Preferred examples of the mounting device 7 of the first electrode referenced herein include, but are not limited to, flexible rubber rings, rubber washers, with rubber rings being preferred. The first electrode 1 can be in any way capable of being inserted into the sealed container 2 that is tested, in the manner described herein. Preferably, the first electrode 1 is of a thin cylindrical shape, long. Such a shape requires a minimum passage 18 that opens in the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and a minimum opening in the sealed container 2, through which the first electrode 1 is inserted. The cylindrical nature of the shape also allows a better fit, preferably a leak-proof seal, when the "passage 18 of the device 7 of the first electrode is in the form of a cylindrical bore. In the method of the present invention, leaks in the seal 8 in the sealing vessel 2 are detected by the flow of electrons between the first electrode 1 and the second electrode 13. The flow of electrons between the electrodes can be generated by a source of direct electric current 5, which is connected to the electrodes, or by manufacturing the electrodes of two dissimilar metals, in which case the electrons will flow from one electrode to the other due to the electrochemical potential between the two dissimilar metals . The last system is called a galvanic cell. The first electrode 1 is connected to a direct current source 5, in such a way that the electrons can be passed either from the direct current source to the first electrode 1, or from the first electrode 1 to the electric current source direct 5. When the electrons are passed from the direct electric current source 5 to the first electrode 1, the first electrode 1 is acting as a cathode. When the electrons are passed from the first electrode 1 to the direct electric current source 5, the first electrode 1 is acting as an anode. The first electrode 1 can be connected to the direct electric current source 5 in any manner known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the first electrode 1 is connected to the direct electric current source 5, by a first wire 4 capable of conducting electric current. The first electrode 1 could also be directly connected to the direct electric current source 5, in such a way that the electrons pass either from the direct electric current source 5 towards the first electrode 1 or from the first electrode 1 towards the source of direct electric current 5, without the use of a first wire 4 to accommodate the flow of electrons. It is believed that any source of direct electric current known to those skilled in the art can be used in the present invention. A non-limiting example of a direct electric current source is a battery that has a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Preferred sources of direct electric current 5 include, but are not limited to, batteries. The direct electric current source is preferably a low voltage, low amperage source. This is desirable for cost savings and safety considerations. Preferably, the direct electric current source 5 is estimated at a voltage in the range of about 1 volt to about 5 volts, more preferably from about 1 volt to about 1.2 volts, still more preferably from about 1.2 volts, and has a rate of current in the range of about 100 milliamps up to about 200 milliamps, more preferably about 100 milliamps. The leak detection method using a galvanic cell is essentially the same as the method using a direct electric current source 5, as described in Figure 1. The differences between the leak detection method used by a cell galvanic versus the method that uses a source of direct electric current, is that in the method that uses a galvanic cell, the first electrode 1 and the second electrode 13 must be made of different metals, and a device for measuring the conductivity instead of a source of direct electric current 5. In the method of leak detection by galvanic cell, the conductivity measuring device is connected to the first electrode 1 and the second electrode 13, in the same way that the direct electric current source 5 is connected to the first electrode 1 and the second electrode 13. The measuring device of the Conductivity not only measures the conductivity of the galvanic cell, but also completes the galvanic cell circuit, allowing electrons to flow from one electrode to the other.Since the test method uses the conductivity to detect leakage of the seal 8, the composition of the product contained in the sealing container 2 must be an electrolyte. It is believed that any composition 3 of electrolytic product can be used in the present invention. Examples of electrolyte product compositions 13 that may be contained in the seal container 2 include, but are not limited to, industrial products and compositions suitable for human consumption such as food and beverages, with the beverages that are preferred. Examples of food and beverage electrolyte compositions useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, isotonic drinks, fruit juices, carbonated beverages and teas, with the isotonic beverages that are preferred. The most preferred isotonic beverage preferably comprises from 0% to about 20%, preferably from about 4% to about 10%, more preferably from about 5% to about 8% by weight of a carbohydrate source, from about 0.01% to about 5%. %, preferably from about 0.01% to about 2%, more preferably from about 0.2% to about 1% by weight of a salt, and the remainder of water. The carbohydrate source can be any carbohydrate suitable for human consumption, known to those skilled in the art, with sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltodextrins and mixtures thereof, which are preferred. The salt may be any salt suitable for human consumption, known to those skilled in the art, with sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium citrate, and mixtures thereof, which are preferred, and sodium chloride which is the most preferred. The sealed container 2 having the first electrode 1 inserted therein is at least partially immersed in an electrolytic bath solution 9 in such a way that the seal 8 of the sealed container 2 is completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9 , the surface of the inner seal 8 of the sealed container 2 is completely immersed in the composition 3 of electrolytic product contained in the sealed container 2, and the first inserted electrode 1 is not in direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution 9. The electrolytic bath solution 9 is contained in a container 14.

The sealed container 2 can be either partially or totally immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9. In any situation, the seal 8 must be immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9 in order to detect any leakage of the seal 8. Preferably, the sealed container 2 is completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9. When the sealed container 2 is completely submerged in the electrolytic bath solution 9, the method of the present invention can detect leaks anywhere on the sealed container 2. However, care must be taken when the sealed container 2 is submerged in the electrolytic bath solution 9, to ensure that the first electrode '1 is not in direct electrical contact with the electrolytic bath solution 9, and that there is a leak-proof seal between the mounting device 7 of the seal and the sealed container 2, and between the mounting, sealing device 7 and the first electrode 1. The first electrode 1 is typically kept out of direct electrical contact with the electrolytic bath solution 9, by electrical isolation of the first electrode 1 from the electrolytic bath solution 9. This can be worked out by any means known to those skilled in the art. An example of a method to achieve this is to completely immerse the first electrode 1 within the electrolyte composition 3 and connect to the first electrode 1 either with the conductivity measuring device or with the direct electric current source 5 via a wire isolated 4, wherein the insulated wire 4 passes through the passage 18 of the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, and wherein the mounting device 7 of the first electrode makes a leak-proof seal between it and the insulated wire 4, and between This one and the sealed container. Another example is to partially pass the first electrode 1 through the passage of the mounting device 7 of the first electrode, in such a way that the first electrode 1 extends out of the mounting device 7 into the electrolytic bath solution 9. In such a configuration, the first electrode 1 is wrapped with an electrically insulating material at all points where the contact of the first electrode 1 and the electrolytic bath solution 9 is possible. The sealed container 2 is held in place by a sealed container mounting device 10. The sealed container mounting device 10 is coupled at one end to the sealed container 2, and is coupled at the other end to an arm 11. The arm 11 is fixedly mounted to a surface. The mounting device 10 of the sealed container acts to retain the sealed container 2 in a fixed spatial position, relative to the reservoir 14. Examples of sealed container mounting devices 10 useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to , a pressure clamp or clamp, with a clamp that is preferred. Preferably, the mounting device 10 of the sealed container can also act to temporarily deform the sealed container 2 while the sealed container 2 is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9. This is to detect leaks that may appear in the sealed container 2 or in the seal 8, when the sealed container 2 is deformed in a way that could happen under the conditions of commercialization distribution. such as the transfer or transport of the sealed container 2. Since the test method uses the conductivity to detect leaks of the seal 8, the bath solution contained in the container or reservoir 14 must be an electrolyte. Almost any electrolytic bath solution 9 containing at least one electrolyte can be used in the present invention. Of course, destructive electrolytic bath solutions 9, for example, corrosive, toxic or hazardous, would preferably not be used in the present invention. Examples of electrolytes that can be used to prepare the electrolytic bath solution 9 of the present invention include, but are not limited to, citric acid, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, aluminum chloride, and mixtures thereof, with citric acid, sodium chloride, potassium chloride and mixtures thereof, which are preferred. Still more preferred is an electrolytic bath solution comprising from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.01% to about 4%, more preferably from about 0.1% to about 3% by weight of citric acid, from about 0.1% to about 2%, preferably from about 0.2% to about 1%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 0.5% by weight of sodium chloride, and the rest of water. A second electrode 13 is at least partially, and preferably completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution 9. As with the first electrode 1, and as already described herein, the second electrode 13 is connected either to a direct electric current source 5 or to a conductivity measuring device, in such a way that the electrons can be passed through from any electrode to the other electrode. When a direct electric current source 5 is used, and the electrons are passed from the direct electric current source 5 to the second electrode 13, the second electrode 13 is acting as a cathode. When the electrons are passed from the second electrode 13 to the direct electric current source 5, the second electrode 13 is acting as an anode. When the second electrode 13 acts as a cathode, the first electrode 1 acts as an anode, and vice versa. The second electrode 13 can be connected to a source of direct electric current 5, in any manner known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the second electrode 13 is connected to the direct electric current source 5, by a second wire 12 capable of conducting current. The second electrode 13 could also be connected directly to the direct electric current source 5, in such a way that the electrons pass either from the direct electric current source 5 towards the second electrode 13, or from the second electrode 13 towards the direct electric current source 5, without the use of a second wire 12 to accommodate the flow of electrons. When the leak detection method uses a galvanic cell, the second electrode 13 is connected to the conductivity measuring device, in the same way as it is connected to the direct electric current source 5, when the leak detection method is practiced. a direct electric current source 5 is used. The second electrode 13 can be of any shape, and be made of any material capable of conducting electricity. Examples of useful materials include, but are not limited to, galvanized metal such as galvanized steel and copper, with galvanized steel being preferred. A second most preferred electrode 13 is a galvanized metal plate. As already discussed herein, when the leak detection method uses a galvanic cell, the first electrode 1 and the second electrode 13 must be made of different metals. The second electrode 13 is preferably fixedly mounted to the reservoir or container 14, in a manner sufficient to provide at least partial and preferably complete immersion of the second electrode 13 in the solution 9 of the electrolytic bath, contained in the container 14. The second electrode 13 can to be mounted to the container or reservoir 14 by any means known to those skilled in the art. Examples of useful mounting means include, but are not limited to, the bolting of the second electrode 13 to a plurality of mounting brackets that are welded or bolted to the surface of the container or reservoir 14, wherein each of the brackets of assembly are welded to the surface of the tank or container, or are capable of receiving a bolt and permit tightening of the bolt, and welding of the second electrode 13 to a plurality of mounting brackets, wherein each of the mounting brackets are welded or recharged to the reservoir surface 14. When the mounting brackets are bolted to the surface of the reservoir 14, and if the bolts pass through the reservoir wall 14, leak-proof seals must be used to prevent leakage. leakage at the point where the bolts pass through the wall of the reservoir 14. Once the elements described herein are in place, the apparatus is capable of performing a circumferential Electricity, and electricity will flow from one electrode to the other if the seal leaks. The direction of the flow of electricity will depend on which electrode is the cathode and which electrode is the anode. The flow of electrical current can be measured by any means, and in any manner known to those skilled in the art, to measure the flow of electrical current. Examples of means useful in measuring electrical current flow include, but are not limited to, ohm meters, conductivity meters, voltmeters, and ammeters, with the ohm meters and conductivity meters that are preferred. If the flow of electric current is not measured, then seal 8 does not leak. If the flow of electric current is measured, then seal 8 has leaks. The size of the leak can be determined by the magnitude of current flow, with a higher current level indicating a larger leak. The present invention also relates to an apparatus comprising means for carrying out the method described herein.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Having described the invention as above, property is claimed as contained in the following:

Claims (21)

1. A method for testing seal leaks in sealed containers containing electrolyte product compositions, and which have seals that can be opened, characterized in that the method comprises: (a) inserting a first electrode into a sealed container, in wherein the sealed container has a seal that can be opened, and which has a hole through which the first electrode can be inserted, wherein the sealed container and the seal do not conduct electricity, wherein the sealed container contains a product composition electrolytic, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in a manner such that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolyte composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; (b) The immersion of the sealed vessel in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a vessel, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact "with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed vessel is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution. , in such a way that the seal of the sealed container is completely submerged in the solution of the electrolytic bath, the inner sealing surface of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not in direct contact with the solution of the electrolytic bath, (c) the first electrode and the second electrode are connected to a source of direct electric current, where an electrode is connected to the source of direct electric current, in such a way that the electrons are passed from the direct electric current source to the electrode, and the other electrode it is connected to the source of direct electric current, in such a way that the electrons are passed from the electrode to the source of direct electric current; and (d) the conductivity is measured from one electrode to the other; where the seal and the sealed container do not leak, if there is no electric current flowing from one electrode to the other, and the seal and / or the sealed container leaks if there is an electric current flowing from one electrode to the other.

2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealed container is made of plastic, and wherein at least the seal is a releasable seal made of plastic.

3. A method according to claim 2, characterized in that the seal is a screw on the lid.

. A method according to claim 3, characterized in that the electrolytic product composition comprises an isotonic beverage comprising water, a source of carbohydrates, and a salt.

5. A method according to claim 4, characterized in that the source of carbohydrates is selected from the group consisting of sucrose, fructose, glucose, maltodextrins, and mixtures thereof and wherein the salt is selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride , potassium chloride, sodium citrate, and mixtures thereof.

6. A method according to claim 5, characterized in that the electrolytic bath comprises water and an electrolyte.

7. A method according to claim 6, characterized in that the electrolyte is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, aluminum chloride, and mixtures thereof.

8. A method according to claim 7, characterized in that the first electrode is made of copper, and wherein the second electrode is a galvanized metal plate.

9. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the first electrode is an anode and wherein the second electrode is a cathode.

10. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that the source of direct electric current is a battery having a voltage regime of approximately 1.2 volts and a current regime of approximately 100 milliamps.

11. An apparatus capable of detecting leaks in the seal, in sealed containers having seals which can be opened and containing compositions of electrolytic product, characterized in the apparatus because it comprises means for: (a) inserting a first electrode into a sealed container, where the sealed container has a seal that can be opened and that has a hole through, from which the first electrode can be inserted, where the sealed container and seal do not conduct electricity, where the container the seal contains an electrolyte composition, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in a manner such that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolyte composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; (b) immersing the sealed container in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a container, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution of such that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution, the surface of the inner seal of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not in contact direct with. the solution of the electrolytic bath; (c) the connection of the first electrode and the second electrode to a source of direct electric current, where an electrode is connected to the direct electric current source, in such a way that the electrons are passed from the electric current source direct to the electrode, and the other electrode is connected to the direct electric current source in such a way that the electrons are passed from the electrode to the direct electric current source; and (d) the measurement of the conductivity of one electrode towards the other; wherein the seal and the sealed container do not leak if there is no flow of electrical current from one electrode to the other, and the seal and / or sealed container is leaking if there is current flow from one electrode to the other.

12. A method for testing the leaks of a seal in sealed containers containing electrolyte product compositions, and which have seals that can be opened, characterized the method because it comprises: (a) the insertion of a first electrode in a sealed container where the sealed container has a seal that can be opened, and that has a hole through which it can be inserted into the electrode, where the sealed container and seal do not conduct electricity, wherein the sealed container contains a product composition electrolytic, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in a manner such that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolytic product composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; (b) Immersion in the sealed vessel in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a vessel, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed vessel is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution , in such a way that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the solution of the electrolytic bath, the inner sealing surface of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode does not is in direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution; (c) the first electrode and the second electrode are connected to a conductivity measuring device, wherein an electrode is connected to the conductivity measuring device, in such a way that the electrons are passed from one electrode to the other Electrode through seal or sealed container when seal or sealed container leaks; and (d) the conductivity is measured from one electrode to the other; where the seal and the sealed container do not leak, if electron flow is not measured from one electrode to the other, and the seal and / or the sealed container leaks if there is a flow of electrons from one electrode to the other.

13. A method according to claim 12, characterized in that the sealed container is made of plastic and wherein the seal is a releasable seal made of plastic.

14. A method according to claim 13, characterized in that the seal is a thread on a lid.

15. A method according to claim 14, characterized in that the electrolytic product composition comprises an isotonic beverage comprising water, a source of carbohydrates, and a salt.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that the source of carbohydrates is selected from the group consisting of sucrose, fructose, glucose, maltodextrins, and mixtures thereof and wherein the salt is selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride , potassium chloride, sodium citrate, and mixtures thereof.

17. A method according to claim 16, characterized in that the electrolytic bath comprises water and an electrolyte.

18. A method according to claim 17, characterized in that the electrolyte is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, aluminum chloride, and mixtures thereof.

19. A method according to claim 18, characterized in that the first electrode is made of copper and wherein the second electrode is a galvanized metal plate.

20. A method according to claim 19, characterized in that the first electrode is an anode and wherein the second electrode is a cathode.

21. An apparatus capable of detecting leaks in a seal, in sealed containers having seals which can be opened and containing electrolyte product compositions, characterized in the apparatus because it comprises a means for: (a) inserting a first electrode into a sealed container, wherein the sealed container has a seal that can be opened and that has a hole through which the first electrode can be inserted, where the sealed container and the seal do not conduct electricity, wherein the sealed container contains a electrolytic product composition, and wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container in such a way that the first electrode is at least partially submerged in the electrolytic product composition, and the seal is in its original sealed state; (b) immersing the sealed container in an electrolytic bath solution contained in a container, wherein the electrolytic bath solution is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed in the electrolytic bath solution of such that the seal of the sealed container is completely immersed in the electrolytic bath solution, the surface of the inner seal of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode is not in contact direct with, the solution of the electrolytic bath; (c) connecting the first electrode and the second electrode to a conductivity measuring device, wherein an electrode is connected to the conductivity measuring device, in such a way that the electrons can pass from one electrode to the other electrode through the seal or sealed container, when the seal or sealed container leaks; and (d) measuring the conductivity of one electrode to the other, wherein the seal and the sealed container do not leak if there is no measured flow of electrons from one electrode to the other, and the sealed seal and / or container is It is leaking if there is a flow of electrons from one electrode to the other. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a method for testing leaks in sealed containers. The method comprises: (a) inserting a first electrode into a sealed container containing an electrolyte product composition, wherein the first electrode is inserted into the sealed container, in a manner such that it is at least partially submerged in the container. the composition of electrolytic product; (b) immersing the sealed container in an electrolyte bath solution contained in a reservoir or container, wherein the solution of the electrolytic bath is in direct contact with a second electrode, and wherein the sealed container is immersed in the solution of Electrolytic bath in such a way that the seal of the sealed container is completely submerged in the electrolytic bath solution, the inner surface of the seal of the sealed container, is completely submerged in the electrolytic product composition contained in the sealed container, and the first electrode it is not in direct contact with the electrolytic bath solution; (c) connecting the first electrode and the second electrode to either a direct electric current source or a conductivity measuring device; and (d) measuring the flow of electrical current or the conductivity of one electrode to the other; where the sealed container does not leak if there is no flow of electrical current or conductivity between the two electrodes, and the sealed container leaks if there is a flow of electrical current or conductivity between the two electrodes. The present invention also relates to an apparatus capable of endorsing the integrity of the seal of a container.