Comparison of the mechanical properties between treated and untreated ham nets

In this study, 100% polyester mesh fabrics were used as ham nets. The nets were treated with 40% propylene glycol (PG), 1% propylene glycol alginate (PGA), and 1% carrageenan. The treated and untreated nets were evaluated to determine any significant changes in terms of mechanical properties. Fabric weight (ASTM D3776), elastic properties (BS EN 14704-1:2005), abrasion resistance (ASTM D4966) and breaking strength (ASTM D5034-09) were tested. The morphology of 100% polyester fiber was also observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Surface morphology of both treated and untreated fabric was also observed. No significant changes occurred in the mechanical properties that would affect the dry-cured ham aging process. Treated samples were stronger than untreated samples with respect to abrasion resistance, weight of the fabric in unit area (GSM), and tensile strength. This study indicates that these nets could be used to age dry-cured hams as part of a methyl bromide replacement strategy.