COMPOSTABLE CUP

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter described herein relates generally to a cup, and more specifically to a compostable cup.

BACKGROUND

Recyclable disposable dishware is rarely recycled after use. Estimates put petroleum plastic cup recycling rates at around 5%. Typically either incinerated or sent to landfill, petroleum plastics take hundreds of years to degrade and release harmful toxins into adjacent soil and water. Moreover, when recyclable disposable dishware users switch to compostable dishware, they can significantly cut down on sorting costs, confusion for customers at disposal points, and increase their contribution to local and national organics recycling efforts. However, conventional biodegradable cups may take a long time to biodegrade, may require specialized conditions in commercial facilities to decompose, and may be incapable of composting in home conditions, further contributing to inefficient recycling efforts and poor recycling capabilities. Additionally, it can be difficult to find a facility that is capable of decomposing these cups, and thus these cups are sent to a landfill, generating waste that does not biodegrade. Even in some instances in which cups or other dishware are biodegradable, such cups and other dishware are too thick such that the amount of material slows biodegradation. Such cups and/or dishware may also not be able to withstand a wide range of temperatures. This renders such cups unsustainable to be used or used for a variety of applications.

SUMMARY

Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture, are provided for a compostable cup and methods of manufacturing a compostable cup.

According to some aspects, a compostable cup includes a base, an opening, a body extending between the base and the opening, a lip circumscribing the opening, a plurality of ribs distributed about the opening, and a material including P-Hydroxy-Benzoate Hydroxylase (PHBH). The body has a curved profile and a thickness of 0.5 mm, with a tolerance of less than 10%.

In some aspects, the material consists of the PHBH material.

In some aspects, the compostable cup is made by a process including injection molding the PHBH.

In some aspects, the thickness of the body and the base is uniform.

In some aspects, the thickness of the body is uniform between the base and the lip.

In some aspects, the thickness of the body allows the compostable cup to be composted and/or biodegraded in at least one of home composting conditions, landfill conditions, and commercial conditions.

In some aspects, the compostable cup is configured to compost by at least 95.3 percent after 12 weeks in commercial conditions.

In some aspects, the compostable cup is configured to compost by at least 90 percent after 26 weeks in home composting conditions.

In some aspects, the curved profile includes a first curved portion, an inflection point, and a second curved portion.

In some aspects, the curved profile further includes a flat portion extending between the second curved portion and the opening.

In some aspects, the curved profile includes a continuous curve between the base and the opening.

In some aspects, the plurality of ribs includes four ribs spaced equidistant from each other adjacent to the opening.

In some aspects, the plurality of ribs are adjacent the lip.

In some aspects, the opening has a diameter of 98 mm.

In some aspects, the compostable cup is made to withstand a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 220 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to some aspects, an injection molded compostable cup includes a cup body having a thickness of 0.5 mm and a material consisting of P-Hydroxy-Benzoate Hydroxylase (PHBH).

In some aspects, the material only includes PHBH.

In some aspects, the material does not include any additives or colorants.

In some aspects, the compostable cup withstands a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 220 degrees Fahrenheit.

In some aspects, the compostable cup is made by a process including: injecting the PHBH material into a mold, cooling, via water-cooling, the PHBH material within the mold such that the PHBH material hardens into a semi-amorphous and semi-crystalline state, and ejecting the compostable cup from the mold.

According to some aspects, a method of manufacturing a compostable cup including a P-Hydroxy-Benzoate Hydroxylase (PHBH) material includes injecting the PHBH material into a mold, cooling, via water-cooling, the PHBH material within the mold such that the PHBH material hardens into a semi-amorphous and semi-crystalline state, and ejecting the compostable cup from the mold. The compostable cup includes: a base, an opening, a body extending between the base and the opening, the body having a curved profile, a lip circumscribing the opening of the body, and a plurality of ribs distributed about the opening of the body.

In some aspects, the method includes drying the PHBH material prior to injecting the PHBH material.

In some aspects, the PHBH material is dried to 2% humidity.

In some aspects, the method also includes applying a pressure to the mold.

In some aspects, the pressure is 28,000 PSI per cavity of the mold.

In some aspects, the injecting, cooling, and ejecting are performed by at least a water-cooled injection molding machine.

In some aspects, the method further includes heating the PHBH material prior to injecting the PHBH material into the mold.

In some aspects, the mold is a multi-cavity mold.

In some aspects, the mold is a single-cavity mold.

The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. While certain features of the currently disclosed subject matter are described for illustrative purposes, it should be readily understood that such features are not intended to be limiting. The claims that follow this disclosure are intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawings,

FIG. 1A depicts an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1B depicts an inside perspective view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1C depicts a side view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1D depicts a front view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1E depicts a cross-sectional view, taken along the lines 10-10, of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1F depicts a bottom of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1G depicts a top view of an inside of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1H depicts a bottom view of an outside bottom of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 1I depicts another example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 2 depicts a stack of compostable cups, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3A depicts an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3B depicts an inside perspective view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3C depicts a side view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3D depicts a side view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3E depicts a cross-sectional view, taken along the lines 20-20, of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3F depicts a bottom of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3G depicts a top view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 3H depicts a bottom view of an example compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 4 depicts a stack of a plurality of compostable cups, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 5 depicts an example process for manufacturing a compostable cup, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

FIG. 6 depicts a graph of temperature evolution during composting testing of an example compostable cup;

FIG. 7 depicts a graph of oxygen concentration during composting testing of an example compostable cup;

FIG. 8 depicts a graph of carbon dioxide production rate during composting testing of an example compostable cup;

FIG. 9 depicts the results of the composting testing of an example compostable cup; and

FIG. 10 depicts decomposition of an example compostable cup in various conditions over time, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

When practical, similar reference numbers denote similar structures, features, or elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Non-compostable plastic, Styrofoam, glass and paper require expensive labor-intensive sorting to separate food waste before hauling such materials to landfills, where the materials may release harmful toxins. The use of biodegradable materials in dishware contributes to a reduction in such waste. However, as noted, conventional biodegradable dishware, including conventional biodegradable dishware made of polylatic acid (PLA), among other materials, may take too long to adequately biodegrade, may require specialized conditions in commercial facilities to decompose, and may be incapable of composting in home conditions, further contributing to inefficient recycling efforts and poor recycling capabilities. Even in some instances in which cups or other dishware are biodegradable or include a polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) material or a PLA material, among other materials, such cups and other dishware include excessive thicknesses, further lengthening the time to biodegrade. Thus, such cups and other dishware may be reusable rather than compostable (e.g., certified compostable). Additionally and/or alternatively, such cups may not be able to withstand a sufficient range of temperatures. Accordingly, conventional biodegradable cups are unsuitable replacements for non-compostable cups, as such cups are difficult to biodegrade and/or use in a variety of applications in which a non-compostable cup would ordinarily be used.

A compostable cup consistent with implementations of the current subject matter composts and/or biodegrades with improved speed and efficiency, may reduce or eliminate the use of toxic additives, and/or may improve the user experience in using the compostable cup, as the compostable cup may exhibit improved properties, such as an improved high heat tolerance, dish washability, and microwave safety. As described herein, the compostable cup consistent with implementations of the current subject matter exhibits an improved performance and user experience relative to other dishware (e.g., cups), other biodegradable cups, other dishware made of conventional PLA materials, and/or the like, due at least in part to the particular wall thickness, material, shape, size, configuration, and/or manufacturing method (e.g., injection molding) of the compostable cup described herein.

For example, the compostable cup described herein may be made of a P-Hydroxy-Benzoate Hydroxylase (PHBH) material, which improves the speed and efficiency of composting in various environments relative to other biodegradable and/or other dishware made of PLA materials among other materials. In some implementations, the compostable cup may be made of only the PHBH material. This means that the compostable cup may be made solely of PHBH with no additives (e.g., bisphenol-A, phthalates, and perfluoroalkoxy alkanes) and/or with no processing additives. Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup may be made solely of PHBH with no colorants and/or only with compostable colorants, such as colorants made of PHBH. Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup includes a thin wall thickness (e.g., relative to conventional compostable and/or biodegradable cups, and/or other dishware made of PLA materials, among other materials) that improves compostability and manufacturability of the compostable cup, while still maintaining the structural integrity of the cup and the improved properties of the compostable cup. For example, the compostable cup may have a wall thickness that is approximately 0.5 mm, enabling faster composting in a variety of environments and/or conditions. For example, the thin wall thickness, which is difficult to achieve, allows for the compostable cup to quickly fully compost or biodegrade in home composting conditions (e.g., in 6 months or less), in industrial or commercial composting conditions (e.g., in 3 months or less), and/or the like. In other implementations, the wall thickness may be between 0.45 mm and 0.55 mm, between 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, between 0.47 mm and 0.53 mm, less than 0.55 mm or the like.

Accordingly, the compostable cup made of the PHBH material (e.g., made of only the PHBH material) and/or having the reduced wall thickness described herein may be disposed of with food waste and may be fully compostable in aerobic and anaerobic (e.g., airless) industrial composting facilities and in home composting conditions. The compostable cup may additionally and/or alternatively be biodegradable in marine conditions, in soil, and in landfills. The capability of the compostable cup to compost/biodegrade in a wide variety of conditions reduces or eliminates the need for sorting the compostable cup from other waste products, thus improving ease of use. The compostable cup may additionally and/or alternatively reduce sorting costs, confusion for users at disposal points, and increase users' contribution to local and national organics recycling efforts. Accordingly, the compostable cup consistent with implementations of the current subject matter provides improved compostability and/or biodegradability, among other properties, relative to other biodegradable cups and dishware, or other dishware including a PLA material, among other materials.

As noted, the compostable cup additionally and/or alternatively provides an improved user experience. For example, the compostable cup provides a high heat tolerance. As described herein, the compostable cup may be made to have a temperature tolerance range of approximately 32-220 degrees Fahrenheit—a marked improvement in terms of both the range and heat tolerance over conventional cups (e.g., conventional biodegradable cups). The broad temperature tolerance of the compostable cup enables the compostable cup to be used for a wide variety of applications and drinks with various temperatures, including drinks having very high temperatures (e.g., boiling water) and enables the compostable cup to be stored in a wide variety of conditions, including cold temperatures. Moreover, the compostable cup described herein may have one or more ribs. The one or more ribs may be distributed about the opening or near the base of the compostable cup. The one or more ribs may improve gripping of the cup material and/or may ease stacking of the compostable cups by, for example, reducing sticking of stacked cups. Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup described herein may be made to have a variety of fluid capacities, such as 9 fluid ounces, 18 fluid ounces, and/or the like, providing users with various options when using the compostable, while still being capable of being used with standard size lids and fitting in standard size cup holders.

Accordingly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, a compostable cup including a body having a wall thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, made of PHBH material (e.g., only PHBH material), and that is injection molded may provide improved compostability and/or biodegradability, among other improved properties, as described herein.

FIGS. 1A-1H depict an example of a compostable cup 100, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. FIGS. 3A-3H depict an example of a compostable cup 200, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The compostable cup 200 may include the same or similar properties as the compostable cup 100. Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup 200 includes one or more components and/or features that may be used with and/or are interchangeable with one or more components and/or features of the compostable cup 100. Likewise, the compostable cup 100 includes one or more components and/or features that may be used with and/or are interchangeable with one or more components and/or features of the compostable cup 200.

Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the compostable cup 100 and the compostable cup 200 may be compostable and/or biodegradable. While the cup 100 and/or the cup 200 are referred to herein as a compostable cup 100 and/or a compostable cup 200, respectively, the cup 100 and/or the cup 200 may additionally and/or alternatively be biodegradable. The compostable cup 100 and the compostable cup 200 may be compostable and/or biodegradable depending on the conditions and/or environment in which the cup 100 and/or the cup 200 are placed.

For example, as used herein, compostable refers to the cups 100, 200 including a material that breaks down into natural elements (e.g., water, carbon dioxide, inorganic compounds, biomass, and/or the like) within a certain period of time (e.g., at or under a predetermined rate) and/or under certain environmental conditions. Because the compostable material is broken down into its natural elements, the material does not release microplastics or harmful toxins, such as heavy metals, bisphenol A, (BPA), phthalates, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), into the environment such that no visible, distinguishable, or toxic residue remains, and as a result, causes no harm to the environment. Accordingly, the compostable cup described herein complies with the European Standard EN 13432, which checks for the release or residue of heavy metals and ecotoxicity. For example, the European Standard EN 13432 requires, for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation, at least 90% disintegration after twelve weeks, 90% biodegradation (CO2 evolvement) in six months, and includes tests on ecotoxicity and heavy metal content.

Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may be capable of composting in a variety of environmental conditions, such as in a commercial environment, an industrial environment, and home environment. As described in more detail below, the compostable cup 100 and the compostable cup 200 have been certified for at least composting in a commercial environment and/or an industrial environment (e.g., under commercial conditions, industrial conditions, and/or environmental conditions). In commercial and/or industrial composting conditions, large scale facilities designed to process daily organics waste from municipal and commercial customers receive food waste, plant trimmings and pre-approved compostable packaging to the facility, where it is strained, ground into uniform pieces, and turned in large piles or hedgerows. The temperature and humidity of each pile within the facility is closely monitored to keep conditions optimal for the microorganisms, bacteria, and fungi that can turn organic matter into healthy soil. As such, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 was lab tested under municipal composting facility conditions—with the right balance of steady heat, moisture and microorganisms for rapid and complete biodegradation—and has been shown to quickly break down into air, water, and soil, with no release of harmful toxins, when subjected to the commercial environment and/or an industrial environment.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may quickly compost under anaerobic composting settings. Industrial anaerobic composting combines food and agricultural waste with water and special microorganism that thrive in airless environments. Anaerobic composters are enclosed, and often trap the resulting methane gasses for use in place of natural gas.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 have been shown to be capable of composting in a home environment (e.g., under home conditions). For example, the composting of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 in the home environment has been tested in a home composter or backyard compost pile, such as under ambient temperatures. The compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 have been shown to compost in the home environment, such as when the composter or compost pile provides warm and moist conditions. In these conditions, soil microbes will attack and break down home compostable products mixed with a good balance of organic green materials like food and yard waste. Accordingly, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may disintegrate (e.g., break into pieces or at least partially biodegrade) within a short time period, such as 10-12 weeks, disintegrating almost completely at or sooner than 24 weeks, and quickly and fully biodegrade, and form compost within a short time period.

As used herein, biodegradable refers to the cups 100, 200 including a material that undergoes degradation resulting from the action of naturally occurring microorganisms, and may not require particular environmental conditions to fully biodegrade. Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 have been shown to fully biodegrade in a variety of environmental conditions, such as in a commercial environment, an industrial environment, and home environment. For example, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 have been shown to be soil biodegradable, freshwater biodegradable, marine biodegradable, and/or the like. The compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 fully biodegrades with no adverse effects on the environment, as the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 do not release any harmful toxins to the environment during biodegradation.

Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may include a material. For example, the entirety of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may include the material. The material may be plant-based and/or bio-based. The material may include a P-Hydroxy-Benzoate Hydroxylase (PHBH) material. PHBH is a ‘biopolymer’, or a bioplastic made by living microorganisms. PHBH is a member of the PHA family of biopolymers. While PHBH is a member of the PHA family of bioplastics, composting the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 including the PHBH material described herein releases no toxins to the environment during composting and/or biodegradation, leading to a reduced environmental footprint. PHBH is made using fermentation. Certain strains of soil microorganisms are blended with seed oils in a warm water bath. The bath is kept at a constant temperature while the microbes consume the oils and metabolize them into the building blocks of PHBH. Using a chemical-free filtration technique, the PHBH is strained, dried, and then pelletized to be used in manufacturing the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200. As described in more detail below, the compostable cup 100 and/or compostable cup 200 may be manufactured in a manner, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, that overcomes the challenges of manufacturing the cup to include only the PHBH material, without any additives (e.g., processing additives), and/or with the particular wall thickness (described in more detail below) that improves the speed and efficiency of composting and biodegrading, further reducing the environmental footprint of the compostable cup 100 and/or compostable cup 200.

In some implementations, the material of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 consists of the PHBH. In other words, the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may solely include (or be entirely made of) the PHBH material such that the material includes no additives (e.g., processing additives) or other materials. The compostability, biodegradability, and other properties of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may be enhanced by solely using PHBH, and/or by the exclusion of additives (e.g., processing additives), which reduces or eliminates the environmental impact of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 during degradation or composting. While the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may be made solely of PHBH, in some instances, the material of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 may include one or more processing additives, such as compostable, non-toxic, and/or organic additives including mineral or starch. However, such additives do not release harmful toxins or byproducts during composting.

In some instances, it may be difficult to manufacture the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 to include only the PHBH material and/or with the particular wall thickness described herein, which improve the speed and/or efficiency of composting and/or biodegrading. For example, it may difficult to produce cups with a thickness consistent with current implementations of the subject matter via injection molding. However, as described in more detail below, the shape, structure, profile, manufacturing, and/or the like, of the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 allows the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200 to be used in a variety of applications and with a variety of liquids (including an improved temperature range), while improving the user experience while using the compostable cup 100 and/or the compostable cup 200, and increasing composting and biodegrading speeds and efficiency.

FIGS. 1A-1H illustrate an example of the compostable cup 100, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. Referring to FIGS. 1A-1H, the compostable cup 100 includes a base 102, an opening 104, a body 106, a lip 108, a plurality of ribs 110, and/or the like. The base 102 may be positioned at the bottom of the compostable cup 100.

The compostable cup 100 may include a color and/or shape that improves the user experience, comfort in using the compostable cup 100, improves the sortability of the compostable cup 100, and/or the like. For example, as described herein, the compostable cup 100 may be made without any colorants. Additionally and/or alternatively, the compostable cup 100 may include only compostable colorants, such as colorants made of the same material (e.g., PHBH) as the compostable cup 100. Accordingly, the compostable cup 100 may have a natural color, such as a yellow or tan color. The compostable cup 100 may additionally and/or alternatively be at least partially transparent due at least in part to the natural color and/or the wall thickness of the compostable cup 100. The color of the compostable cup 100 may allow the compostable cup 100 to be easily distinguished from other waste, allowing the compostable cup 100 to be efficiently sorted from other waste and properly handled for composting and/or biodegrading. Accordingly, the color of the compostable cup 100 may reduce the environmental impact of the compostable cup 100, by for example, encouraging and easing sorting of the compostable cup 100.

The compostable cup 100 may be made to have an improved temperature resistance range that allows the cup 100 to be used in a variety of applications and/or to handle a wide range of liquid temperatures that conventional cups, such as conventional compostable and/or biodegradable cups are not capable of handling. Generally, compostable cups and/or other dishware is not capable of handling temperatures greater than 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, compostable cups are generally incapable of handling boiling water or other high temperature liquids. For example, the compostable cup 100 may be made to withstand temperatures of approximately 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 220 degrees Fahrenheit, up to 220 degrees Fahrenheit, and/or the like. Accordingly, the compostable cup 100 can withstand high temperatures, such as those greater than boiling water. The compostable cup 100 withstands such temperatures without suffering damage or alteration to the structural integrity and/or other properties of the cup.

The compostable cup 100 may be configured to hold a volume of liquid. For example, the compostable cup 100 may hold 24 oz, 18 oz, 16 to 18 oz, 9 oz, 16 oz, 12 oz, 10 oz, 8 oz, and/or the like. For example, the compostable cup 100 may have a variety of fluid capacities. For example, the compostable cup 100 may have a fluid capacity of 9 ounces. In some implementations, the compostable cup 100 may have a fluid capacity of 12 ounces. In some implementations, the compostable cup 100 may have a fluid capacity of 18 ounces. In some implementations, the compostable cup 100 may have a fluid capacity of 24 ounces.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1H, the body 106 may extend between the base 102 and the opening 104. The body 106 includes a profile (e.g., an overall shape, size, structure, and/or the like) that improves the comfort in holding the cup 100, improves the manufacturability of the cup 100, improves the sortability of the cup 100, and/or the like. For example, the body 106 may include a curved profile. The curved profile may include a curved portion with no inflection point, such that the curved profile includes a single continuous curve, as shown in FIG. 1C.

For example, in some implementations, the curved profile may include a continuous curve between the base 102 and the opening 104, as shown in FIG. 1C. The continuous curve may extend smoothly from the base 102 to the opening 104, without any corners, edges, and/or the like. The continuous curve profile may allow the compostable cup 100 to be more easily gripped by the user. The continuous curved profile may improve manufacturability of the compostable cup 100 and/or may improve user comfort. The continuous curved profile may additionally and/or alternatively aid in waste sorting efforts. The distinctive curved profile can allow the compostable cup 100 to be easily distinguished from other waste, allowing the compostable cup 100 to be efficiently sorted from other waste. Proper sorting of waste reduces environmental impact.

Referring to FIG. 1E, the body 106 may have a thickness that has been tested and determined to enhance compostability of the compostable cup 100 without impacting the structural integrity of the cup. As described herein the thickness of the body 106 may be uniform throughout the body 106 and/or one or more other portions of the compostable cup 100, such as the base 102, and/or the like. For example, in some implementations, the thickness of the body 106 is uniform, such as from the base 102 to the lip 108. The uniform thickness helps to improve composting efficiency and consistency.

The thickness of the body 106 may be less than approximately 0.7 mm, 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, between 0.4 mm and 0.7 mm, between 0.45 mm and 0.55 mm, between 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, between 0.47 mm and 0.53 mm, less than 0.55 mm, and/or the like. The thickness of the body 106 may be approximately 0.5 mm. The thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, alone and/or in combination with the material of the compostable cup 100 and/or the configuration of the cup described herein, significantly improves composting efficiency, speed, and consistency, while maintaining the structural integrity of the cup, durability of the cup, the properties of the cup described herein, and/or the like. Thus, the particular configuration and/or dimensions described herein, such as the thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of 0.5 mm, alone and/or in combination with the material of the compostable cup 100, the shape of the cup, and/or the properties of the cup, have been selected such that the compostable cup 100 improves the compostability and/or biodegradability over conventional cups, such as conventional biodegradable cups. The thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, may have a tolerance in the range of 10% and still provide the benefits described herein. Certain areas of the cup, such as the lip 108, or a portion of the base 102, may have a greater thickness (e.g., approximately 2.0 mm, or the like), than the overall thickness of the body 106. This greater thickness in these regions may not negate the benefits described herein. Such configurations, as described in more detail herein, have been tested, certified, and/or the like, as providing improved performance and compostability characteristics.

Referring again to FIGS. 1A-1H, the base 102 may include a recessed portion 112, as shown in FIG. 1E The recessed portion 112 may be positioned at a center of the base 102. The recessed portion may extend inwardly towards an interior of the compostable cup 100. In some implementations, the base 102 includes an injection point or gate 114 positioned at the center of the base 102. The injection point may be used during the manufacturing process described in more detail below, such as during injection molding. The injection point 114 may have a thickness of 1.0 mm or less.

The base 102 may have a variety of sizes. For example, the base 102 may be sized to fit standard cup holders. In some implementations, the base 102 may be smaller or larger than a standard cup holder.

In some implementations, the base 102 may have a thickness that is the same as a thickness of a body 106 of the compostable cup 100, as shown in FIGS. 1E, such that the compostable cup 100 has a uniform thickness. The uniform thickness may improve the overall compostability and biodegradability of the compostable cup 100, while improving the stability of the compostable cup 100. In some implementations, the base 102 has a thickness of approximately 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, less than 0.7 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm, 0.45 mm to 0.55 mm, 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, 0.47 mm to 0.53 mm, less than 0.55 mm, and/or the like. The thickness of the base may have a tolerance in the range of 10%. The thinner thickness may be preferable and result in improved compostability and/or biodegradability of the compostable cup 100.

The opening 104 may be positioned at the top of the compostable cup 100 and/or at an end of the cup 100 opposite the base 102. In some implementations, the opening 104 may be sized to fit standard lid sizes. In some implementations, the opening 104 may have a diameter of 98 mm. In some implementations, the opening 104 may have a smaller diameter. In some implementations, the opening 104 may have a larger diameter. In some implementations, the compostable cup 100 may include a lip 108 that circumscribes the opening 104. The lip 108 may improve user comfort while drinking or otherwise using the cup 100. The lip 108 may have a thickness that is larger than the overall thickness of the cup 100, including larger than the thickness of the body 106 and/or larger than the thickness of the base 102. The lip 108 may have a thickness of 2 mm, 1.9 mm, 1.95 mm, 2.05 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, and/or the like, with a tolerance in the range of 10%.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1H, the plurality of ribs 110 may include one, two, three, four, five, or more ribs. In some implementations, the ribs 110 may be distributed evenly about the opening 104 of the compostable cup 100. In yet other implementations, the ribs 110 may be distributed on an inner surface of the compostable cup 100, such as near the base 102 of the compostable cup 100. In some implementations, the compostable cup 100 may include four ribs 110, as shown in FIG. 1H. In yet other implementations, the plurality of ribs 110 may include sets of closely spaced ribs (e.g., two, three, four, or more) distributed about the opening 104 or near the base 102. For example, FIG. 1I illustrates a variation of the compostable cup 100 including sets 113 of closely spaced ribs 110. The compostable cup 100 may include four (or another quantity) sets 113 of the closely spaced ribs 110 distributed about the opening 104 or near the base 102 to provide structural support.

The plurality of ribs 110 may provide additional structural stability to the cup 100. The plurality of ribs 110 may be shaped, sized, and/or positioned to ensure the ribs 110 can be stacked, yet easily removed or otherwise separated from one another when stacked. For example, in some implementations, due to the material of the compostable cup 100, stacked cups may stick to one another due at least in part to environmental (e.g., humid or moist) conditions. The shape, position, and/or size of the plurality of ribs 110 helps to reduce sticking of the cups when stacked and/or helps to prevent damage to the cups when stacked.

As shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of ribs 110 space adjacent stacked cups by a stacking distance 117. The stacking distance 117 may be approximately 1.93 mm. In some implementations, the space between adjacent stacked cups may be 1 mm, 1 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm to 2 mm, 2 mm, 2 mm to 2.5 mm, or 2.5 mm. This clearance between compostable cups 100 may decrease sticking and aide in removing compostable cups 100 from the stack.

As shown in FIG. 1E, the plurality of ribs 110 include a flat outer portion 130 and a tapered portion 132. The tapered portion 132 extends from the body 106 to the flat outer portion 130. The tapered portion 132 includes a notch 134 that may receive a lip 108 of an adjacently stacked cup 100. This helps to maintain the desired clearance between adjacently stacked cups and/or to reduce sticking between stacked cups.

Additionally and/or alternatively, to help prevent sticking of adjacently stacked cups, the compostable cup 100 may include a roughened portion 111. The roughened portion 111 may extend about the circumference of the body 106. The roughened portion 111 may include an elongated strip positioned proximate the opening 404. The roughened portion may extend between the plurality of ribs 110, such as between adjacent ribs 110 of a set 113 (see FIG. 1I). the roughened portion 111 may additionally and/or alternatively provide additional grip for holding the compostable cup 100.

FIGS. 3A-3H illustrate an example of the compostable cup 200, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. As noted, the compostable cup 200 may include the same or similar properties, components, and/or features of the compostable cup 100. For example, the compostable cup 200 may include the same material and/or the same wall thickness as the compostable cup 100, among other properties, components, and/or features. For example, the compostable cup 200 may include the a base 202, an opening 204, a body 206, a lip 208, a plurality of ribs 210, and/or the like, which are respectively the same or similar to the base 102, the opening 104, the body 106, the lip 108, the plurality of ribs 110, and/or the like, of the compostable cup 100.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3H, the body 206 may extend between the base 202 and the opening 204. The body 206 includes a profile (e.g., an overall shape, size, structure, and/or the like) that improves the comfort in holding the cup 200, improves the manufacturability of the cup 200, improves the sortability of the cup 200, and/or the like. For example, the body 206 may include a curved profile. The curved profile may include a first curved portion 222, an inflection point 224, and a second curved portion 226, as shown in FIG. 3C. The first curved portion 222 extends from the base 202 towards the opening 204, to the inflection point 224. The second curved portion 226 extends from the inflection point 224 to the opening 204 and/or lip 208. Together, the first curved portion 222 and the second curved portion 226 define a continuous curve. In some implementations, the curved profile may further include a linear or flat portion 220 extending between the second curved portion and the opening 204, as shown in FIG. 3C.

The continuous curve may extend smoothly from the base 202 to the opening 204, without any corners, edges, and/or the like. The continuous curve of the curved profile of the compostable cup 200 may include a double-S shape. The continuous curve profile may allow the compostable cup 200 to be more easily gripped by the user. The continuous curved profile may improve manufacturability of the compostable cup 200 and/or may improve user comfort. The continuous curved profile may additionally and/or alternatively aid in waste sorting efforts. The distinctive curved profile can allow the compostable cup 200 to be easily distinguished from other waste, allowing the compostable cup 200 to be efficiently sorted from other waste. Proper sorting of waste reduces environmental impact.

Referring to FIG. 2E, the body 206 may have a thickness that has been tested and determined to enhance compostability of the compostable cup 200 without impacting the structural integrity of the cup. As described herein the thickness of the body 206 may be uniform throughout the body 206 and/or one or more other portions of the compostable cup 200, such as the base 202, and/or the like. For example, in some implementations, the thickness of the body 106 is uniform, such as from the base 102 to the lip 108, and/or including the base 102, except for the lip 108. The uniform thickness helps to improve composting efficiency and consistency.

The thickness of the body 206 may be less than approximately 0.7 mm, 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, between 0.4 mm and 0.7 mm, and/or the like. The thickness of the body 206 may be approximately 0.5 mm. The thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of 0.5 mm, alone and/or in combination with the material of the compostable cup 200 and/or the configuration of the cup described herein, significantly improves composting efficiency, speed, and consistency, while maintaining the structural integrity of the cup, durability of the cup, the properties of the cup described herein, and/or the like. Thus, the particular configuration and/or dimensions described herein, such as the thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of 0.5 mm, alone and/or in combination with the material of the compostable cup 200, the shape of the cup, and/or the properties of the cup, have been selected such that the compostable cup 200 improves the compostability and/or biodegradability over conventional cups, such as conventional biodegradable cups. The thickness of less than 0.7 mm, and particularly the thickness of approximately 0.5 mm, may have a tolerance in the range of 10% and still provide the benefits described herein. Certain areas of the cup, such as the lip 108, or a portion of the base 102, may have a greater thickness (e.g., approximately 2.0 mm, or the like), than the overall thickness of the body 106. This greater thickness in these regions may not negate the benefits described herein. Such configurations, as described in more detail herein, have been tested, certified, and/or the like, as providing improved performance and compostability characteristics.

Referring again to FIGS. 3A-3H, the base 202 may include a recessed portion 212, as shown in FIG. 2E The recessed portion 212 may be positioned at a center of the base 202. The recessed portion may extend inwardly towards an interior of the compostable cup 200. In some implementations, the base 202 includes an injection point or gate 214 positioned at the center of the base 202. The injection point may be used during the manufacturing process described in more detail below, such as during injection molding. The injection point 214 may have a thickness of 1.0 mm.

The base 202 may have a variety of sizes. For example, the base 202 may be sized to fit standard cup holders. In some implementations, the base 202 may be smaller or larger than a standard cup holder.

In some implementations, the base 202 may have a thickness that is the same as a thickness of a body 206 of the compostable cup 200, as shown in FIGS. 3E, such that the compostable cup 200 has a uniform thickness. The uniform thickness may improve the overall compostability and biodegradability of the compostable cup 200, while improving the stability of the compostable cup 200. In some implementations, the base 202 has a thickness of approximately 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm, less than 0.7 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm, and/or the like. The thickness of the base may have a tolerance in the range of 10%. The thinner thickness may be preferable and result in improved compostability and/or biodegradability of the compostable cup 200.

The opening 204 may be positioned at the top of the compostable cup 200 and/or at an end of the cup 200 opposite the base 202. In some implementations, the opening 204 may be sized to fit standard lid sizes. In some implementations, the opening 204 may have a diameter of 98 mm. In some implementations, the opening 204 may have a smaller diameter. In some implementations, the opening 204 may have a larger diameter. In some implementations, the compostable cup 200 may include a lip 208 that circumscribes the opening 204. The lip 208 may improve user comfort while drinking or otherwise using the cup 200. The lip 208 may have a thickness that is larger than the overall thickness of the cup 200, including larger than the thickness of the body 206 and/or larger than the thickness of the base 202. The lip 208 may have a thickness of 2 mm, with a tolerance in the range of 10%.

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3H, the plurality of ribs 210 may include one, two, three, four, five, or more ribs. In some implementations, the ribs 210 may be distributed evenly about the opening 204 of the compostable cup 200. In yet other implementations, the ribs 210 may be distributed on an inner surface of the compostable cup 200 near the base 202 of the compostable cup 200. In some implementations, the compostable cup 200 may include four ribs 210, as shown in FIG. 3H. In yet other implementations, the plurality of ribs 210 may include sets of closely spaced ribs (e.g., two, three, four, or more) distributed about the opening 204 or near the base 202. The plurality of ribs 210 may provide additional structural stability to the cup 200. The plurality of ribs 210 may be shaped, sized, and/or positioned to ensure the ribs 210 can be stacked, yet easily removed or otherwise separated from one another when stacked. For example, in some implementations, due to the material of the compostable cup 200, stacked cups may stick to one another due at least in part to environmental (e.g., humid or moist) conditions. The shape, position, and/or size of the plurality of ribs 210 helps to reduce sticking of the cups when stacked and/or helps to prevent damage to the cups when stacked.

As shown in FIG. 4, the plurality of ribs 210 space adjacent stacked cups by a stacking distance 217. The stacking distance may be approximately 1.93 mm. In some implementations, the space between adjacent stacked cups may be 1 mm, 1 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm to 2 mm, 2 mm, 2 mm to 2.5 mm, or 2.5 mm. This clearance between compostable cups 200 may decrease sticking and aide in removing compostable cups 200 from the stack.

As shown in FIG. 3E, the plurality of ribs 210 include a flat outer portion 230 and a tapered portion 232. The tapered portion 232 extends from the body 106 to the flat outer portion 230. The tapered portion 232 may include a surface 234 configured to receive and/or rest at least partially on a lip 208 of an adjacently stacked cup 200. This helps to maintain the desired clearance between adjacently stacked cups and/or to reduce sticking between stacked cups.

FIG. 5 illustrates a process 500 of manufacturing the compostable cup 100, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. While the process 500 is described with respect to the compostable cup 100, the process 500 may be similarly applied to the cup 200, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

Unlike conventional plastic cups and/or conventional biodegradable cups, which are thermoformed from sheets of plastic or PLA, the compostable cup consistent with implementations of the current subject matter may be made using injection molding (e.g., compression injection molding, water-cooled injection molding, and/or the like). Generally, injection molding is difficult to implement when handling thin wall thicknesses, such as the wall thickness of the compostable cup described herein. However, the process 500 accounts for the challenges of handling the material of the compostable cup 100 and/or the thin wall thickness of the cup 100 as described herein. Additionally and/or alternatively, the process 500 results in lower wasted material during manufacturing, and/or the like. Injection molding, as described herein, can provide advantages over thermoforming, such as efficient material use during manufacturing, increased precision and accuracy to the mold, and higher intricacy of the manufactured part. Accordingly, injection molding, as used herein, such as with the PHBH material and the described thickness (e.g., less than 0.7 mm and more particularly, approximately 0.5 mm) may provide significant advantages over conventional processes, materials, and thicknesses.

At 502, the PHBH material may be injected into a mold. The mold may be a multi-cavity mold or a single-cavity mold. The mold may be at least part of a water-cooled injection molding machine. In some implementations, the PHBH material is heated prior to injecting the molten PHBH material into the mold. Additionally and/or alternatively, the PHBH material may be dried prior to injecting the PHBH material. For example, the PHBH material may be dried to 2% humidity.

At 504, the PHBH material may be cooled, such as by water cooling, within the mold. The PHBH material may harden into a semi-amorphous and semi-crystalline state. The PHBH material may be cooled by the water-cooled injection molding machine. The molten PHBH material may be cooled, such as water-cooled, until the PHBH material crystallizes and forms the compostable cup. In some implementations, a pressure, such as by the water-cooled injection molding machine, may be applied to the mold. The pressure may be 28,000 PSI per cavity of the mold.

In some implementations, the PHBH material injected into the mold may be water heated and/or water cooled, such as by the water-cooled injection molding machine. This allows for uniform heating and/or cooling of the PHBH material and improves the structural integrity of the cup.

At 506, the compostable cup may be ejected from the mold. For example, an air poppet of the water-cooled injection molding machine may cause the compostable cup to be ejected from the mold.

Experiments

Testing was performed to determine the compostability of the compostable cup 100 according to implementations of the current subject matter. Similar testing was applied to the compostable cup 200, achieving similar results. A pilot-scale composting test CAKE-1/2 with results up to 12 weeks was performed. In this test the disintegration of a compostable cup 100 with a wall thickness of approximately 0.5 mm was monitored. In particular, the compostable cup 100 had a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (edge), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge) and was quantitatively evaluated during 12 weeks of composting in commercial composting conditions. While this testing was performed in commercial composting conditions and has shown the improved compostability and decomposition of the compostable cup described herein in such conditions, the composting and decomposition of the compostable cup was also tested in home conditions and similarly exhibited improved performance.

In total, two bins were started: one control bin (CAKE-1/2-01), divided into two compartments, which contained only biowaste, and one test bin (CAKE-1/2-02). Test bin CAKE-1/2-02 was also divided into 2 compartments which contained biowaste and 1% compostable cup 100, which was cut into 4 pieces. The test parameters are provided in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1

Compartment Content

Control bin

CAKE-1/2-01
1
Biowaste, filled to the top of the bin

2
Biowaste, filled to the top of the bin

Test bin

CAKE-1/2-02
1
Biowaste + 1% Plastic cup, cut into 4

pieces, filled to the top of the bin

2
Biowaste + 1% Plastic cup, cut into 4

pieces, filled to the top of the bin

FIG. 6 shows the temperature evolution during the test. For example, the temperature dropped over time. FIG. 7 shows the oxygen concentration in the exhaust air. The oxygen concentration throughout the test remained above 10%. As such, good aerobic conditions were guaranteed during the test. The CO2 production rate is shown in FIG. 8.

During the testing, the mixture in the bins was regularly turned manually, during which the disintegration of the compostable cup 100 was visually monitored. The disintegration of the compostable cup 100 with a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (edge), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge), cut into 4 pieces, proceeded well. FIG. 10 shows a visual comparison between the compostable cup 100, cut into 4 pieces, at start and after 10 weeks of composting in commercial conditions. After 10 weeks of composting in commercial conditions, only few pieces with a maximum size of approximately 2 cm×2 cm were found in the test bin. After 12 weeks of composting in commercial conditions, the contents of the test bin were used for sieving, sorting, further isolation and analyses and the disintegration was calculated. Disintegration is defined as a size reduction to <2 mm. The contents of the bins were sieved over 10 mm, 5 mm and 2 mm, after which a homogeneous sample of all compost fractions >2 mm was manually selected and a mass balance was performed. After carefully selecting all fractions (2-5 mm, 5-10 mm, >10 mm) only a couple small pieces of the compostable cup 100 could be retrieved from the different sieving fractions (FIG. 9). However, a significant majority of the test material had disappeared. As can be seen in Table 2 below, 4.7% of the compostable cup 100 remained present in the >2 mm fraction. This corresponds with a disintegration percentage of 95.3%. Consequently, the 90% pass level as required by the American standard ASTM D6400 Standard Specification for Labeling of Plastics Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities (2021), the European norm EN 13432 Requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation—Test scheme and evaluation criteria for the final acceptance of packaging (2000) and the international standard ISO 17088 Specifications for compostable plastics (2021) was reached for the compostable cup 100, with a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (edge), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge). Thus, the compostable cup 100 made of the PHBH material (e.g., only the PHBH material) and a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm (e.g., less than 0.7 mm) was tested and particularly shown to have improved performance.

TABLE 2

Disintegration of the test item after 12 weeks

of composting in commercial conditions

Remaining

Remaining

sample >
Disintegration (%)
sample >

Test item
2 mm (%)
<2 mm
<5 mm
<10 mm
10 mm (%)

Plastic cup
4.7
95.3
96.1
97.6
2.4

CAKE-1/2-02 C1
4.8
95.2
96.3
97.9
2.1

CAKE-1/2-02 C2
4.6
95.4
96.0
97.3
2.7

Further testing was performed on cup 100 according to implementations of the current subject matter. Similar testing was applied to cup 200, achieving similar results. A composting test CAKE-1/3 with results up to 179 days (approximately 25.6 weeks) was performed. In this test the disintegration of a compostable cup 100 with a wall thickness of approximately 0.5 mm was monitored. In particular, the compostable cup 100 had a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (lip), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge) and was quantitatively evaluated during 179 days (approximately 25.6 weeks) of composting in home composting conditions. During home composting, high temperatures present in industrial composting are generally not reached.

The home composting test was performed in duplicate. In total, two composting reactors were started: reactor 1 and reactor 2. The reactors contained compost mixture and 1.2% cup 100 (the equivalent of one cup per reactor) divided into 2.5 cm by 2.5 cm pieces. The compost mixture in the reactors was an 80/20 mixture of mature compost and fresh milled Vegetable, Garden and Fruit waste (VGF), respectively. The mature compost itself is a mixture of mature VGF and green compost.

During the testing, the reactors were incubated at 28 degrees Celsius, +2 degrees, and in the dark. The mixture in the reactors was regularly stirred and moistened if needed, during which the disintegration of the compostable cup 100 was visually monitored. The disintegration of the compostable cup 100 with a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (lip), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge), cut into 2.5 cm by 2.5 cm pieces, proceeded well. The reactors were reinoculated with 5% fresh VGF waste after an incubation period of 12 weeks and 18 weeks. FIG. 10 shows a visual comparison between the compostable cup 100, cut into 2.5 cm by 2.5 cm pieces, at start and after 179 days (approximately 25.6 weeks) of composting at ambient temperature conditions (i.e. home composting conditions). After 12 weeks of composting in ambient temperature conditions, the pieces showed some disintegration. After 24 weeks of composting in ambient temperature conditions, only pieces of the edge could be retrieved from both composting reactors. At the end of the test, after 179 days (approximately 25.6 weeks) of composting, only tiny pieces of the edge could be retrieved from composting reactor 1, and only a few small fragments of the edge remained present in composting reactor 2. Additionally, the pieces were very fragile. The pieces were not visually contaminating the compost. At the end of the test, disintegration was evaluated. The retrieved test pieces were weighed, and it was concluded that an average disintegration percentage of over 99% was obtained for cup 100 after 179 days (approximately 25.6 weeks) of composting at ambient temperature conditions (i.e. home composting conditions). Consequently, the 90% disintegration pass level as required by the French standard NF T51-800 Plastics—Specifications for plastics suitable for home composting (2015) in a quantitative test according to ISO 16929 Plastics—Determination of the Degree of Disintegration of Plastic Materials under Defined Composting Conditions in a Pilot-Scale Test (2021), and the criterion that no more than 10% w/w (dry weight) of the original dry weight of the test material fails to pass through a 2 mm fraction sieve and that any remaining residue shall not be distinguishable from the other material in the compost at 500 mm as observed by the naked eye as required by the Australian standard specification AS 5810 Biodegradable plastics—Biodegradable plastics suitable for home composting (2010), was reached for the compostable cup 100, with a thickness of 525 μm (sidewall), 1932 μm (edge), 502 μm (bottom) and 537 μm (bottom edge). Thus, the compostable cup 100 made of the PHBH material (e.g., only the PHBH material) and a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm (e.g., less than 0.7 mm) was tested and particularly shown to have improved performance.

FIG. 10 depicts decomposition of an example compostable cup in various conditions over time, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. FIG. 10 depicts decomposition of an example compostable cup in fresh water with soil at ambient temperatures over 13 weeks. FIG. 10 also depicts decomposition of an example compostable cup in home composting conditions at ambient temperatures over 24 weeks. Accordingly, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the compostable cup described herein may exhibit improved composting and decomposition in commercial composting conditions, in which optimal material temperatures for certain microbes are controlled (e.g., the temperatures are generally very high at the beginning of the process, and then drops and is maintained at a warm consistent temperature until biodegradation is complete), home composting conditions, in which the temperature is ambient, not regulated, resulting in little microbial activity at the beginning of the process, and slowly ramps up as microbes increase activity and breakdown progresses, among other conditions. Thus, FIG. 10 highlights the improved compostability and decomposition of the compostable cups 100, 200 described herein, which also, as noted herein, provide an improved user experience, profile, shape, and/or the like.

The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, apparatus, methods, and/or articles depending on the desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and subcombinations of several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and/or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. For example, the logic flows may include different and/or additional operations than shown without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. One or more operations of the logic flows may be repeated and/or omitted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims.

When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. References to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

Spatially relative terms, such as, for example, “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” “or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical values given herein should also be understood to include about or approximately that value, unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, in some implementations, the phrase “approximately” may include +/−. 03 mm, +/−. 05 mm, or the like.

COMPOSTABLE CUP

Information

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Date Filed

Date Published

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Original Assignees

CPC

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Abstract

Description

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)