Hibernation / controlled intermediate storage
In passive thermal packaging, hibernation refers to planned intermediate storage under controlled temperature conditions. A suitable storage period can reduce thermal exposure. Whether it also partially regenerates a coolant depends on the system, its condition and the storage temperature and duration.
Which conditions must be defined?
- The storage temperature must suit both the product and the intended condition of the coolant.
- Duration, storage arrangement and packaging condition affect heat exchange. The internal state of a well-insulated shipper changes only slowly.
- The subsequent transport stage must be safely covered by the thermal state of charge achieved.
Does the packaging's protection time start again afterwards?
No. Returning packaging to a cold room does not reset a universal protection-time clock. Any extension or further use of remaining buffering capacity must be demonstrated for the specific combination of storage and transport stages. Without such evidence, the originally approved packing instructions remain applicable. Cooling again does not undo product exposure that has already occurred.
Related terms: Pre-conditioning · Stability budget
Technical references:
WHO: Qualification of shipping containers