Q: What is the permeability of SÜBR closure?

The permeability of the SÜBR closure is 0.25 mg of O 2 per year. It’s a perfect solution for wines with high aging potential, but it also helps preserve the aromatic freshness of delicate wines and wines ready to drink. The real strength of SÜBR lies in the uniformity of this permeability value from one closure to another. This uniformity is made possible by the extrusion process used in its manufacture. We are the only closure producers to use this technology, which we have mastered for over 25 years. In practice, extrusion involves producing a rod cut into pieces of 38, 44, or 49 mm. In contrast, during the molding process used in the production of micro-agglomerated corks, the pressure applied to bond cork and glue varies. The lower the pressure, the greater the variability from one cork to another. This constraint is overcome with the extrusion process.

Question 1

Can I use Coravin with bottles sealed with Nomacorc closures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the Coravin Pivot with Nomacorc closures.

While other Coravin systems are designed for natural corks, the Coravin Pivot works with any type of closure, including synthetic ones like Nomacorc. This system includes a stopper that can be inserted into the bottle to prevent oxidation and preserve the wine.

Question 2

How do we make closures from sugarcane

Accepted Answer

In the past standard, petrol-based plastic material was used to manufacture Nomacorc closures. In this process the oil is brought up out of the ground, it is converted to ethylene, the ethylene is polymerized to polyethylene, which was the primary component of the first generation Nomacorc closures. This is a very common and standard process to produce plastics.

In case of Nomacorc Green Line technology the starting material is sugarcane which is distilled into bio-ethanol, then converted into bioethylene. The same bio-ethylene can be polymerized to bio-polyethylene. The polymerization is the same process as for petrol-based material and the biopolyethylene can be used for the production of any Nomacorc Green Line closure. The sugarcane takes CO2 out of the environment, which results in negative or zero carbon footprint.

Question 3

Where are your closures produced?

Accepted Answer

Our closures are produced in Rivesaltes, in the south of France. We also offer our customers the opportunity to visit our factory.

Question 4

Who is already using this solution in the market?

Accepted Answer

We have more than 500 customers worldwide, and 1 out of every 10 bottles of Barolo is already corked with a SÜBR solution.

Question 5

What is the permeability of SÜBR closure?

Accepted Answer

The permeability of the SÜBR closure is 0.25 mg of O₂ per year. It’s a perfect solution for wines with high aging potential, but it also helps preserve the aromatic freshness of delicate wines and wines ready to drink. The real strength of SÜBR lies in the uniformity of this permeability value from one closure to another. This uniformity is made possible by the extrusion process used in its manufacture. We are the only closure producers to use this technology, which we have mastered for over 25 years. In practice, extrusion involves producing a rod cut into pieces of 38, 44, or 49 mm. In contrast, during the molding process used in the production of micro-agglomerated corks, the pressure applied to bond cork and glue varies. The lower the pressure, the greater the variability from one cork to another. This constraint is overcome with the extrusion process.

Question 6

Is OBP waste collected under ethical condition?

Accepted Answer

OBP used in Nomacorc Ocean is collected by an organization certified to Zero Plastic Oceans’ standards. OBP Collection Organization Standard ensure that collectors guarantee the respect criteria such as:

no child labour
fair working conditions
fair payments to the waste pickers
respect of OBP collection criteria from the first level of collection

This standard also ensures that collection efforts focus on the highest impact areas as well as on collecting “real” OBP according to Zero Plastic Oceans definition (see related question). To know more on certification click here.

Question 7

How is this new range environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Each year in Europe, only 30% of plastic is actually recycled. The technology used as part of the Blue Line project contributes to improving the rate of recycling by giving a second life to materials normally destined for landfilling or incineration. We know that incineration is a source of CO₂ emissions. The Blue Line range contributes to limiting these emissions by using these non-reclaimed plastics as a new source of raw material. This redeployment also helps to avoid the fossil-fuel derived production of plastics.

By joining in with the circular economy, the Blue Line range participates in the development of technologies that are genuinely beneficial for the environment. For example, production of one million Blue Line 50% closures gives a second life to approximately 3 tonnes of plastic.

Additionally, the amount of the raw material available is currently limited because the infrastructures where plastic can be recycled are still rare. With the launch of the Blue Line range, we are encouraging a new economy for plastic in which this sector’s manufacturers must implement the means of producing more sustainable raw materials.

This approach is very comparable to its counterpart in the electricity sector where consumers’ demand for green energy obliges the players on the market to switch to more environmentally friendly production methods.

Question 8

Why is this range of closures not launched earlier?

Accepted Answer

The plastic used to make our closures must imperatively be suitable for contact with foodstuffs. Until now, with existing recycling technology it was not possible to provide a recycled raw material that met such a requirement. However, very recently, manufacturers have developed a new process which is an extraordinary breakthrough in the circular sourcing of plastic. This new technology makes it possible to obtain a recycled material identical to new plastic, which is authorised in manufacturing of our closures.

In addition to opening up new horizons, this process makes it possible to recycle plastic limitlessly.

Question 9

What is the « Mass Balance system”?

Accepted Answer

The constraints associated with the logistics and production of plastic mean it is not possible to physically trace the recycled plastic from the beginning to the end of the manufacturing process. The “Mass Balance” approach is therefore considered to be the best means of increasing the use of circularly sourced raw materials. Indeed, it offers a guaranteed balance between the amount of material at the input and output of each step in the manufacturing process, up until the finished product.

This approach has already proved its worth in other industries such as the wood, cocoa or electricity industries. It has helped to intensify the development of a sustainable approach in production of these resources.

Question 10

Are the data downloaded from the web interface protected?

Accepted Answer

The data downloaded to the NomaScan interface are protected and not disclosed. However, certain data can be used by Vinventions (exclusively) to enhance the Polyscan database.

Question 11

In what case can the scanner be used?

Accepted Answer

The Polyscan can be used to perform single measurements or monitor measurement at different stages of the winemaking process from grape maturity control to polyphenols extraction and management during winemaking. PolyScan allows also to evaluate the wine sensitivity to oxidation. Depending on your subscription, you can access several applications.

Question 12

How does the web interface NomaScan work?

Accepted Answer

To know more about all the possibilities offered by the interface and the optimal way to use it, please read the NomaScan website User Guide.

Question 13

Where can I find the different user guides?

Accepted Answer

The PolyScan User Guide and the NomaScan website User Guide are both stored into the Polyscan analyzer and accessible directly on your computer once the PolyScan is connected. You can also download these two guides directly on the Nomacorc’s website.

Question 14

Where are the ID and password to login to the web interface NomaScan?

Accepted Answer

ID and password for login are provided with the device. An email, containing all the access codes is also issued with the purchase confirmation order of the Polyscan. Username (or ID) must be carefully preserved. If you forget the password, click on the message of the home page inviting you to request a new one.

Question 15

Do samples need to be prepared?

Accepted Answer

Grape must or wine sample are analyzed directly without any preparation. For certain types of measures, like grape seed, whole berries or oak alternatives for example, a specific protocol is required. For more information, please read the PolyScan User Guide stored in the device or download it on the Vinventions’ website.

Question 16

Do electrodes need to be calibrated?

Accepted Answer

No. The electrodes do not require any calibration.

Question 17

On which electrode’s side the sample must be dropped?

Accepted Answer

Electrodes have a white end on one side and a blue end on the other side. The sample must be dropped on the electrode’s blue side.

Sample must be dropped on the 3 black rectangles, so that it covers the 3 rectangles without bubbles. Sample must be dropped once the electrode is inserted on the device, and the device is maintained horizontally.

Question 18

Which is the side of the electrode inserted into the device?

Accepted Answer

Electrodes have a white end on one side and a blue end on the other side. The white end is fitted to be inserted into the device. Be careful not to touch the opposite (blue) end of the electrode with your fingers.

Electrodes have a white end with 3 grey strips on one side, this side is fitted to be inserted into the device. Please do not touch this side and the 3 black rectangles with your fingers.

Question 19

What are the different components measured with the Polyscan ?

Accepted Answer

From the global analysis of oxidizable compounds, and through the application of mathematical models obtained at the end of several years of research, the Polyscan provides sevral indexes with a practical interest depending on the matrix and the winemaking step: EasyOx, PhenOx, MaturOx, TAN/CAN ration, Tendency of Evolution.

Question 20

Can an electrode be used several times?

Accepted Answer

No. Electrodes are single use. For each measure, a new electrode is used.

Question 21

Is it necessary to clean electrodes between each measure?

Accepted Answer

No cleaning is required. An electrode is used only to a single measure.

Question 22

What is the specificity of the electrode?

Accepted Answer

Electrodes used to perform measurements with the Polyscan are disposable and are specifically suited to the measurement of oxidizable compounds of the wine.

Question 23

What is the technology used by the Polyscan ?

Accepted Answer

The technology used by the device is voltammetry. A potential is applied to the electrode in a range suitable for the analysis of wine. The application of this potential on the surface of the electrode causes oxidation of the compounds present in the sample. The resulting current is measured.

Question 24

What is the Polyscan ?

Accepted Answer

The Polyscan is an analyzer that characterizes the phenolic fingerprint of a wine or a grape from a global electrochemical measurement of oxidizable compounds. It uses single-use electrodes.

Question 25

How often should the device be serviced?

Accepted Answer

It is advisable to carry out the maintenance of the device every year, at the same time as the change of the sensor. Maintenance includes checking the operation of the light source, checking the temperature probe and barometer, and changing and calibrating the measuring cap containing the sensor.

Question 26

What is the battery life?

Accepted Answer

The battery life is 16 to 20 hours for measurement intervals set between 1 and 3 seconds. It lasts more than 2 weeks for one-minute measurement intervals. When the battery is exhausted, remove the batteries from the analyzer and charge them with the battery charger supplied with your analyzer.

Don’t forget to stop the measurement before leaving the app, disconnecting the device do not stop measurement.

Question 27

What is the Oxymeter cable length?

Accepted Answer

The Oxymeter cable is 5 meters long.

Question 28

What is the shelf-life of the oxygen sensor (probe cap)?

Accepted Answer

The calibration of the probe cap is reliable for a period of one year. After this period, the sensors must be changed to ensure the reliability of the measurements made.

Question 29

How do I calibrate my oxygen sensor cap?

Accepted Answer

With the NomaSense Oxymeter, the PSt7 oxygen sensor inside the probe cap can be recalibrated, it comes with its factory calibrationThe sensor probe is delivered with a document called “Final Inspection Protocol” on which the calibration data is indicated. You must use the values highlighted in gray in this document and enter them in the application (in Parameters/Calibration/Manual Calibration). If you change the sensor, you will have to enter its calibration in the application. For more information on calibrations, please refer to the quick user guide for the analyzer.

Question 30

When should I use single scan mode?

Accepted Answer

The “SINGLE” measurement mode is used in the case of a single measurement. For routine use, we recommend choosing the “START” mode, which performs measurements at regular intervals and also allows the measurement to be recorded.

Question 31

Is it possible to export the data saved in the Oxymeter?

Accepted Answer

All data stored in the analyzer’s SD card must first be downloaded to the mobile phone via the application. Then once downloaded, it is possible to export them to a computer or to a cloud via a wireless connection or email from the smartphone.

Question 32

Is it possible to record the measurements made?

Accepted Answer

Measurements can be saved directly to an SD card built into the Oxymeter analyzer.

Question 33

What can I do when my probe is broken?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, broken probe cannot be repaired. Contact us if any part of your device seems broken. (winequalitysolutions@vinventions.com)

Question 34

Are the PSt7 sensors specific to oxygen?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen Sensors PSt7 do not have any cross sensitivity for carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), pH, any ionic species like sulfide, sulfate, chloride or salinity. Turbidity and flow rates have no influence on the measurement.

Question 35

Are temperature and atmospheric pressure taken into account in the measurement?

Accepted Answer

Temperature and atmospheric pressure are compensated by an integrated temperature sensor and barometer. It is also possible to enter this information manually directly into the setting in the mobile app.

Question 36

Is it possible to perform a measurement of dissolved oxygen in sparkling wines?

Accepted Answer

Oxymeter does not measure the dissolved oxygen of sparkling wines. Stirring of the probe causes degassing which distorts the measurement. Without agitation of the probe, the carbon dioxide molecules adsorb on the surface of the probe and prevent the measurement.

Question 37

How long does a measurement take?

Accepted Answer

The measurement is reliable when the stabilization of the value is reached. Stabilization is obtained by stirring the probe in the wine.

Question 38

What measurement can be performed with the Oxymeter?

Accepted Answer

The main purpose of the analyzer is to measure dissolved oxygen in liquid phase. NomaSense analyzers allow measuring dissolved oxygen in wine (tank, barrel, tanker for example). It is also possible to measure oxygen in gaseous phase (tank headspace, bottle after inerting etc.). For gaseous measurement, you must set-up the temperature measurement manually and select measurement unit in % O₂ don’t forget to set-up back to auto for DO measurements.

Question 39

How to pair the Oxymeter with the Presens Wireless Studio app?

Accepted Answer

Once geolocation is enabled, open the application (or stay in the app if it is already open) and click “Scan” to detect the nearby Oxymeter. Once detected, you will be able to login and access the features of the application. Attention: think beforehand to activate the Bluetooth function of your smartphone and make sure that the Oxymeter batteries are correctly loaded.

Question 40

How to install the the Presens Wireless Studio mobile applications?

Accepted Answer

To work, the mobile app must have access to your location. Open your application. Authorize the location if it is directly proposed or configure the access in the settings of your phone for this application. NB: your location is not registered or stored in the application.

Question 41

What is the Presens Wireless studio mobile applications? How to download them?

Accepted Answer

The Oxymeter cannot work without a mobile application, from which all settings and measurements are done. The Presens Wireless Studio mobile application is available for all iOS 8.0 versions and higher and all Android 6.0 version and higher, directly from the Apple Store or google play store. Application is available in English and German. You can download the NomaSense Wireless Studio mobile app from Google Play.

Question 42

How does the luminescence technology work?

Accepted Answer

The instrument generates a blue light (high Energy) which is sent to the oxygen sensor via the optical fiber. The light energy is absorbed by the sensor, which leads to an excitation of the electrons in the sensor dot to a higher energy state level. As this state is not stable, the electrons go naturally back to the basic ground state. This loss of energy is materialized by the emission of a red light which is returned to the device through the optical fiber. The delay between the emission of the blue light and the recovery of the red light is correlated to the concentration of oxygen in the environment surrounding the sensor. The Oxymetermeasures this delay (and not the intensity of the light) which provides a better robustness of measurement over time.

Question 43

What is the technology used for the Oxymeter?

Accepted Answer

The Oxymeter is based on luminescence technology which allows for precise and accurate measurement of oxygen in wine.

Question 44

What's in the Oxymeter Briefcase?

Accepted Answer

The Oxymeter comes with 8 batteries (4 batteries for the analyzer and 4 spare batteries), a battery charger and adhesive magnets to attach a smartphone to the analyzer case. The analyzer consists of a case containing the batteries, and a probe connected to the housing by a 5 m cable. The PSt7 oxygen sensor is located in the probe cap.

Question 45

Is it true that HSO is higher for SC bottles? Why?

Accepted Answer

Yes it is true. Screw-capped bottles have a bigger ullage volume. This ullage volume creates a bigger reservoir of oxygen. The cap is an empty cylinder containing air which creates an additional source of oxygen.

Question 46

Is vacuum at corking enough to reach low oxygen value in the head space?

Accepted Answer

When vacuum system is perfectly tuned, HSO value can be very low but, most of the time, an inerting system will be necessary to reach the lowest HSO value. Different studies and audits we performed show that HSO values are around 3mg/L without vacuum system, 1.4 mg/L with a vacuum system and 0.2 mg/L when vacuum is combined with an inerting system.

Question 47

Is inerting before filling an efficient way to decrease O2 pick-up?

Accepted Answer

An efficient bottle inerting before filling can help decrease dissolved oxygen values by 0.5 to 1 mg/L.

Question 48

How important is the Head Space Oxygen?

Accepted Answer

Different studies and bottling audits had revealed that headspace oxygen (HSO) is responsible for two-third of the total package oxygen (TPO) during bottling. That is why HSO must be managed.

Question 49

Is Dissolved Oxygen the only culprit?

Accepted Answer

Dissolved oxygen in the wine is not the only culprit after bottling or conditioning. Headspace oxygen also plays a role and will have an influence on wine ageing.

Question 50

Is it possible to perform a bottling audit on any type of packaging, like Bag-in-box®, or type of closure, like screwcap?

Accepted Answer

Bottling audits can be performed for any type of packaging including Bag-in-box (only when transparent taps are available) and for any type of closures. Can be performed on almost all kind of packaging, for specific demand please contact us to evaluate the feasibility

Question 51

Do bottling audits have an influence on production rate?

Accepted Answer

Bottling audits do not impact rates of production if well planned in advance.

Question 52

How do you proceed to put in place bottling audits?

Accepted Answer

Usually a first meeting is arranged to evaluate the process in place. This also allows to evaluate your needs and to decide which audit is adapted. Bottling audits can then be planned and performed. To know more, contact us.

Question 53

What kind of critical steps can be identified?

Accepted Answer

Each step of the process can potentially cause oxygen pick-up. Audit allows to highlight where oxygen pick-up takes place (i.e. filling inconsistency, vacuum efficiency, inerting efficiency, closure performance, pipe length, filtering).

Question 54

What are bottling Audits?

Accepted Answer

Bottling audits consist of a series of procedures aimed at checking the oxygen management efficiency of a bottling line. Each critical step before and during bottling is evaluated by means of different oxygen measurements, allowing to identify critical oxygen pick-up points needing improvement. Audits can be customized depending on individual needs.

Question 55

What is the difference between PSt3 and PSt6 oxygen sensors?

Accepted Answer

The PSt3 sensors are designed for the NomaSense O₂ C300 with a limit of detection of 15 µg/L (measurement range for dissolved oxygen: 0 – 22 mg/L). PSt6 type is suitable for the NomaSense O₂ P6000 with a limit of detection of 1 µg/L dissolved oxygen (measurement range for dissolved oxygen: 0 – 1.8 mg/L).

Question 56

Are the oxygen sensors food grade compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they are.

Question 57

Are oxygen sensors reusable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they are.

Question 58

What is the PSt3 and PSt6 sensors shelf-life?

Accepted Answer

The PSt3 et PSt6 sensors calibration is guaranteed for 2 years. After this time, Sensors must be changed to ensure the measurement reliability.

This rule applies to all consumables using a PSt3 or PSt6 sensor: sensor spots, dipping probes and piercing system syringe.

Question 59

Are oxygen sensors resistant to cleaning practices?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen sensors are non-autoclavable (NAU). They are resistant to cleaning up to 70 ° C, 3% H2O₂ and up to 4-5% for acidic agents (HCl, H2SO₂).

Frequent exposure to more than 70-80 ° C and organic solvents (acetone, toluene …) must be avoided.

Question 60

Can I touch my oxygen sensors with my fingers?

Accepted Answer

In case of an accidental skin contact, oxygen sensors should not be too much affected, but we recommend avoiding skin contact because skin acidity can damage the stability of the sensors.

Question 61

What kind of glue should be used?

Accepted Answer

We provide you with the appropriate Silicone glue in the NomaSense O₂ starter kit. To order this product, please contact us.

Question 62

Where can I glue my oxygen sensors?

Accepted Answer

The sensors can be integrated in any kind of transparent, non-fluorescent container (glass or plastic). Slightly milky containers are also appropriate. The thickness of the container wall should not exceed 8 mm.

Question 63

Which side of the oxygen sensors must be glued to the bottle wall?

Accepted Answer

The oxygen remote sensor has a pink side and a black side. The pink side has to be glued to the container wall (bottle, sight glass etc…). The black side of the sensor foil has to face the sample surface. Please download Application Note N°1 and N°2 or watch the video N°2.2.2 or N°2.2.3.

Question 64

Are my sensors working properly? Is my calibration still good?

Accepted Answer

To verify if oxygen sensors are still working well with the current calibration, you just have to read the sensor in air. Please make sure to have the right temperature on your device. If values are between 20 and 22% of oxygen, oxygen sensors are still well calibrated. If not, we recommend you to re-calibrate them or to replace them if needed. For more information please download the Application Note N°3 or contact-us to buy new sensors.

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