Odor Containment Bag

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to containment bags.

BACKGROUND

There are many situations in which an odorous material must be stored or transported. In these situations, it is sometimes desirable to provide an odor-containing receptacle, for example, when the odor is unpleasant, pungent, or when the odor causes embarrassment to the user.

Activated charcoal (i.e. activated carbon) is carbon that has been treated to impart porosity, increasing the surface area to several hundred or even several thousand square meters per gram. Such activation typically involves oxidizing (e.g. using steam and/or oxygen) charcoal under high temperatures. Activated charcoal is widely used as an adsorbent catalyst in chemical reactions and a filter for removing impurities substances from water. The increased surface area of activated charcoal provides numerous bonding sites to preferentially adsorb organic molecules as they come in proximity to the surface.

Activated charcoal has also found use in filtering odorous molecules from the air. For example, Conant et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 6,313,371) teach the use of an activated charcoal cloth pad for use as a flatulence deodorizer.

Activated charcoal has also found use in odor-controlling disposal containers. Tepper et al. (WO 2002/098765) describe an odor-controlling container for use in disposing of wastes having an associated malodor. The container can comprise activated charcoal cloth for adsorbing odor molecules. However, Tepper et al. fall short in a number of features now provided by various embodiments of the present invention. For example, Tepper et al. do not each a bag comprising a non-porous layer sandwiched between two layers of activated charcoal cloth. Further, Tepper et al. do not teach a bag comprising a double closure system. Although the containers of Tepper et al. were shown to reduce odor intensity, even the top performing examples did not provide complete or near complete inhibition of odor escape.

What is needed in the art is a reusable container for storing odorous materials that provides complete or near complete inhibition of odor escape.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides an odor containment bag. The bag comprises an envelope having an opening, wherein the envelope wall comprises three layers or “plies”. The first and second plies are each a layer of activated charcoal cloth. The third ply is a non-porous material positioned between the layers of activated charcoal cloth. The bag comprises a closure mechanism for closing the envelope about the opening.

In one embodiment, the bag has a double closure system. The envelope comprises a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism (‘closure’) and a holding mechanism configured for holding the flap in position for said covering the closure. Optionally, the holding mechanism is of the hook and loop type.

In one embodiment, the closure is a hook and loop closure. Optionally, the envelope further comprises a flap configured for covering the closure. Optionally, the bag comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering the closure. Optionally, the holding mechanism is of the hook and loop type.

In one embodiment, the non-porous material is a polymer such as a plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic such as polypropylene.

In one embodiment, the non-porous material is a polymer (e.g. thermoplastic) and the closure mechanism is a hook and loop closure mechanism. Optionally, the envelope further comprises a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism. Optionally, the bag comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering the closure mechanism. Optionally, the holding mechanism is a hook and loop holding mechanism.

In one embodiment, the bag is pocket sized, duffel bag sized, or from pocket sized to duffel bag sized.

The invention also provides a method of containing a material comprising placing the material in the odor containment bag. Optionally, the material is an odorous material, an allergen, or an oxidation-prone material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a containment bag of the present invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a three-ply envelope useful in a bag of a containment bag of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a containment bag of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a containment bag of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used here, the following definitions and abbreviations apply.

“Examplary” (or “e.g.” or “by example” or “such as” or “can”) means a non-limiting example.

Envelope

Envelope Overview

A bag of the present invention comprises an envelope having an opening and a closure mechanism. The envelope wall comprises at least three layers or “plies”: a middle ply positioned between an inner ply and an outer ply. The inner and outer plies each comprise a layer of activated charcoal cloth. The middle ply is a non-porous layer, for example, a polymer film. The envelope further comprises a closure mechanism (e.g. hook and loop mechanism) for sealing the envelope. Optionally, the envelope comprises a double closure system.

Activated Charcoal Cloth

According to the present invention, a bag comprises two layers of activated charcoal cloth for adsorbing odor molecules from an odorous item contained in the bag.

Activated charcoal cloth is a porous and gas-permeable fabric comprising activated charcoal. Activated charcoal, also known as activated carbon, is a broad-spectrum adsorbent. The activated charcoal traps odor molecules as gas (i.e. air) passes there through the fabric. Activated charcoal cloth can be obtained, for example, by weaving activated carbon fibers into a fabric. Other methods of obtaining activated charcoal cloth are known in the art, for example, dispersing activated charcoal granules between laminated sheets of a porous material (e.g. nonwoven polymer fabric).

Any activated charcoal cloth is useful in the present invention. Examples of useful activated charcoal cloth include those distributed by Calgon Carbon Corporation, such as Zorflex. Optionally, the layer of activated charcoal cloth is sandwiched or laminated between layers of a porous material such as a nonwoven fabric (e.g. Daltex polypropylene nonwoven). This provides a protective layer of porous material to the activated charcoal layer. Optionally, the inner and outer layers of activated charcoal cloth are made of different cloths. For example, the outer cloth can be made from activated charcoal cloth material from granulated charcoal dispersed on a porous layer(s) (e.g. Freudenberg Non-Woven Group) (Model 9003) while the inner layer is made of farbric woven from activated charcoal fibers (e.g. Zorflex).

One method of forming an activated charcoal layer of the envelope comprises a) providing a sheet of activated charcoal cloth, b) off-center-folding the sheet upon itself such that an overhang remains (flap region), and c) sewing (e.g. stitching or bonding) the folded lateral sides together, leaving an opening at the base of the flap region. In one example, each of the layers of activated charcoal are independently formed as such, and then combined with the non-porous layer to provide the envelope (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 2c).

Non-Porous Layer

According to the present invention, a bag comprises a non-porous layer between the inner and outer layers of activated charcoal cloth.

Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the middle non-porous layer stops (or impedes) the movement of odor molecules from the inner layer of activated charcoal to the outer layer of activated charcoal, thereby providing a partition and to regulate the load to the outer layer of active charcoal. Additionally, the non-porous layer ensures that air is not inadvertently forced through the layers activated charcoal cloth layers due to environmental conditions (e.g. wind or movement of the bag relative to ambient air, e.g. due to transport of the bag). Although the non-porous layer stops the movement of odor molecules, it is believed that passage of an odor molecule through a non-porous layer still occurs, for example, by migration through molecular gaps in the non-porous layer. This process begins with adsorption of the molecule on the layer surface, diffusion of the odor molecule through the layer, and desorption of the odor molecule from the opposite surface.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a layer of metal (e.g. aluminum), for example, a layer of foil.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a polymer layer, e.g. a polymer film. Optionally, the polymer is a thermoplastic resin (e.g. polypropylene film). Thermoplastic films can be produced, for example, by melting and extruding the thermoplastic. Any production process is useful so long as it produces a non-porous layer, e.g. blown film and slit-die extrusion. Not included in this embodiment are many non-woven fabrics (sometimes referred to as “nonwovens”), e.g. those produced by bonding plastic fibers, unless they are laminated or otherwise sealed to produce a non-porous layer. These non-wovens have macro- or micro-scopic pores that are much longer than intermolecular gaps through which diffusion is the only means of transport.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a polymer selected from any of the following types: polyolefin, polyalkylene, Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g. PVDC), PCTFE, polyamide (nylons), and Nylon-MXD6.

The non-porous layer can be of any thickness or flexibility. Optionally, the non-porous layer is flexible. Optionally, the non-porous layer is rigid. The skilled artisan will recognize that, for certain materials, flexibility is dependent on thickness of the material. For example, a 1.5 mil layer of polypropylene can be used to provide a flexible non-porous layer.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a laminated, coextruded, or coated polymer film.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is a co-extruded film. Optionally, the co-extruded film is EVOH/LLDPE.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is a polymer film comprising a coating to enhance barrier properties. Optionally, the coating is selected from acrylic, PVC, PVDC, nitrocellulose, aluminum, and inorganic oxide. Other examples are known in the art.

In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is any layer that provides a gas- or odor-barrier. Useful examples of such non-porous layers are described by Hilton et al. (“Permeability of Organic Vapor through Packaging Films.”; Ind. Eng. Chem. Prod. Res. Dev., 1978, 17 (1), pp 80-85), “PACKAGING MATERIALS FOR FOODS” (Practical Action; Retrieved from the internet URL: http://web.archive.org/web/20100923054354/http://practicalaction.org/docs/technical_information_service/packaging_materials.pdf), “Permeability and Other Film Properties of Plastics and Elastomers” (Plastics Design Library Staff (1995). William Andrew Publishing/Plastics Design Library), “Plastics in Packaging” (Chapter 11 in Handbook of Plastics, Elastomers, and Composites; Hernandez, Retrieved from the internet URL: http://www.accessengineeringlibrary.com/mghpdf/0071449493_ar011.pdf), Cooskey (“IMPORTANT FACTORS FOR SELECTING FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS BASED ON PERMEABILITY”; Flexible Packaging Conference 2004; Obtained from the URL: http://www.burchamintl.com/papers/petpapers/62.pdf), Feldman (Journal of Polymers and the Environment, Volume 9, Number 2, 49-55, Polymer Barrier Films), Massey, L.K. ((2003). Permeability Properties of Plastics and Elastomers—A Guide to Packaging and Barrier Materials (2nd Edition). William Andrew Publishing/Plastics Design Library.), each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The non-porous layer is not limited to any particular structure, as long as it is non-porous with respect to gaseous odor molecules. The skilled artisan will recognize that even so-called “gas-impermeable” polymer films have some degree of permeability, for example, due to diffusion through amorphous portions of the polymer. The non-porous layer can be tailored by modifying various parameters known in the art, e.g by modifying crosslinking, orientation, crystallinity, and/or thickness of the film.

One method of forming the non-porous layer of the envelope comprises a) providing a sheet of thermoplastic film (e.g. polypropylene), b) off-center-folding the sheet upon itself such that an overhang remains (flap region), and c) using a cut seal on the lateral sides, leaving an opening at the base of the flap. In one example, the gas impermeable layer is formed as such, then placed inside the outer layer of activated charcoal cloth, then opened to place the inner layer of activate charcoal cloth inside the gas impermeable layer (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 2c).

Form

A bag of the present invention is any container or “envelope” having an opening. Bags of the present invention can be formed from envelopes of any size, shape, or configuration.

The envelope can be of any container type. For example, the envelope can be in the form of a pouch, backpack, duffel bag, chest, briefcase, storage box, a locker, and the like.

In one embodiment, the envelope is pocket sized. In one embodiment, the envelope is duffle bag sized. In one embodiment, the envelope has a size ranging from pocket size to duffle bag size. In one embodiment, the envelope has a volume of about any of: 10-40000, 10-20000, 10-5,000, 5-500, 5-300, 5-100, 1000-20000, and 500-10000 in³.

In one embodiment, the envelope is flexible. In one embodiment, the bag is rigid. Although flexible non-porous layers allow the construction of a flexible bag, the present invention also contemplates the use of rigid or hard-shell bags. Such a rigid or hard-shell bags can be provided by including one or more rigid layers. For example, the non-porous layer may be provided as a rigid layer. Alternatively, the rigid bag can be formed by inserting the envelope into a hard-shelled case, for example, a hard-shelled case having a lid or top having an seal (e.g. o-ring) and/or a pressure valve, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,164,505, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

The envelope, and each layer thereof, can be assembled in any manner. In one embodiment, the envelope made by sewing, e.g. as is known for assembling purses and clothing items. For example, the envelope components can be formed or combined by stitching, stapling, bonding (e.g. adhesive), molding, or heat-sealing. Details of such methods are well known in the art. Optionally, the layers of activated charcoal cloth are stitched together without piercing the gas impermeable layer. For example, each envelope layer can be independently formed and then inserted into one another, as detailed in FIG. 2c.

Closure Mechanism

According to the present invention, a bag comprises a closure mechanism for closing the bag about the opening. The closure mechanism can be any mechanism that seals or otherwise interlocks two segments of the envelope wall together to close the bag about the opening.

Useful closure mechanisms include, for example, those having components that interact to form a closure mechanism, e.g. hook and loop closure, tongue and groove (e.g. ZIP LOK™) closure, zipper-type closures, track-type closures, non-track type closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and the like.

In one embodiment, the closure mechanism interlocks two opposing segments of the envelope wall into contact with each other, for example, as depicted in FIG. 1.

In one embodiment, the bag comprises a double closure system. A double closure system comprises a closure mechanism (e.g. interlocking segments of the envelope wall at the opening) and a flap of envelope wall configured for covering the closure mechanism, e.g. as detailed in Example 1. The flap can be, for example, an extension of one of the container walls configured to be folded over the closure mechanism. The bag further comprises either a second closure mechanism or flap “holding mechanism” configured to hold the flap in position for covering the closure mechanism. Optionally, the holding mechanism provides a seal as in a closure mechanism. Optionally, the holding mechanism is a hook and loop holding mechanism. Alternatively, the holding mechanism can be any known holding or closure mechanism, e.g. any closure mechanisms described herein. Although a single closure mechanism provides a seal or barrier to the exit of odor molecules, the double closure mechanism is surprisingly effective at containing odorous materials, ensuring that any odor molecules that pass through the closure mechanism become adsorbed by the flap.

In one embodiment, the holding mechanism forms a seal (e.g. hook and loop) between the flap and the envelope. In such a configuration, the flap isn't necessarily positioned snugly against the opening or closure mechanism. Instead, the sealed flap forms a second compartment for containment and filtering of any molecules that escape the first closure mechanism. However, the present double closure systems are not limited to systems having a holding mechanism that form an interlocking seal. For example, in one embodiment, the holding mechanism is configured to position the flap over and flushly in contact with the opening and/or closure mechanism, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 1b. In such a configuration, any odor molecules escaping the closure mechanism are directed through a snugly wrapped flap.

In one embodiment, the bag comprises a double hook and loop closure system. In such an embodiment, the bag comprises a hook and loop closure mechanism, a flap of envelope wall configured for covering the closure mechanism, and a hook and loop holding mechanism for holding the flap in position for covering the closure mechanism, e.g. as detailed in Example 1.

In one embodiment, the bag comprises a triple closure mechanism. Such a bag comprises a double closure mechanism, wherein at least one closure mechanism is a non-sliding or non-track type closure mechanism (e.g. hook and loop), and the bag further comprises a sliding- or track-type alignment tool (e.g. zipper or tongue and groove mechanism) for aligning the closure mechanism, as detailed in Example 2. The alignment tool can be, for example, any sliding or track type mechanism placed alongside and parallel to the non-sliding or track type closure mechanism such that operation of the sliding or track type mechanism aligns the interlocking components of the non-sliding/track type closure mechanism. Although the triple closure mechanism is useful in combination with the three-ply envelopes taught herein, the invention also contemplates the use of a triple closure mechanism outside the use of the three-ply envelope design. For example, one embodiment provides a bag having a triple closure mechanism and any envelope comprising activated charcoal cloth (e.g. single ply activated charcoal cloth or a two-ply envelope comprising a layer of activated charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer).

FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment of the present invention. The bag comprises an envelope 17 having an opening with closure 21 (e.g. hook and loop) and outer flap 18 configured to cover the closure 21. The bag further comprises an inner flap 20 with optional holding mechanism 21 (e.g. hook and loop). Optionally, the bag comprises a holding mechanism 19 (e.g. hook and loop) for holding the outer flap 18 over the closure 21. In one embodiment, the inner flap 20 is made from the envelope wall material or is alternatively any activated charcoal cloth material. Although this embodiment is useful in combination with the use of three-ply envelopes, as taught herein, the invention also contemplates its use outside of the three-ply envelope design taught herein. Accordingly, the invention provides a bag having a closure and an inner and outer flaps with optional holding mechanisms, wherein the envelope wall is made from any activated charcoal cloth (e.g. a single layer of activated charcoal cloth or a layer of activated charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer).

Utility

A bag of the present invention can be used to contain any material. Accordingly, the invention provides a method of containing a material comprising placing the material in an odor containment bag taught herein. Optionally, the material is an odorous material or an oxidation-prone material.

In one embodiment, the contained material is an odorous material. According to the present invention, odorous materials include materials that emit any of: odors, allergens, and volatile organic compounds. Examples of materials which can be contained by a bag of the invention include animal products, plant products, wastes, clothing, biological specimens, and hazardous materials.

Surprisingly, examplary bags of the present invention are so effective at containing odors, that specially trained canines are unable to identify odorous materials when placed inside the bag. Accordingly, a bag of the present invention provides superior odor containment.

In one embodiment, the material is a plant product. Examples of plant products that release odors include compost, vegetables, fruits, spices, and herbs (e.g. culinary, medicinal, prescription, or holistic).

In one embodiment, the material is an animal product. Examples of animal products include food products such as meats, cheese (e.g. limburger), animal wastes, animal carcasses, and animal specimens.

The superior filtering capacity of bags of the present invention can be utilized to contain materials that release allergens or volatile organic compounds.

In one embodiment, the material is or emits an allergen. Examples of such materials include peanuts, tree nuts, peanut butter, animal hair or animal grooming products, and the like.

In one embodiment, the material emits a volatile organic compound (VOC). Optionally, the material is a liquid or solid. VOCs often have adverse effects on health after short or long term exposure. Optionally, the material is any of: organic solvents, paint, cleaning supplies, pesticides, adhesives, permanent markers, photographic solutions and the like. Optionally, the material releases any of: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, hexane, cyclohexane, trimethylbenzene, acetone, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, methacrylates, ethyl acetate, tetrachloroethene, limonene, a-pinene, isoprene, tetrahydrofuran, cyclohexane, methyl ethyl, methylene chloride, butane, pentane, and formaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the material is an oxidation-prone material. Wet activated charcoal preferentially removes oxygen from the environment. Accordingly, a bag of the present invention can be used to contain an oxidation-prone material. Oxidation-prone materials include, for example, silver, silverware, metals, electronics, mechanical devices, hardware, and oxidation-prone chemicals. Other oxidation-prone materials are well known.

In one embodiment, the bag is reactivatable. Reactivation is the desorption or elution of adsorbed odor molecules from the activated charcoal. In one embodiment, the bag is configured as a reactivatable bag and the method of using the bag comprises periodically reactivating the activated charcoal. A reactivatable bag is provided by providing bag layers, specifically the non-porous layer, that are able to withstand reactivation conditions, i.e. are heat-stable. Heat-resistant materials useful for a non-porous layer are well known in the art (e.g. polypropylene, nylon, PVC). A reactivatable bag can be reactivated, for example by washing, heating, and/or steaming. Optionally the bag is reactivatable by washing and then heating. For example, one method of reactivating a reactivatable bag comprises a) washing the bag with minimal water (e.g. dampening with a wet cloth; and b) heating the bag (e.g. with forced hot air such as an electric blow dryer). Optionally, washing comprises applying detergent (e.g. using a damp cloth optionally with a very small amount of detergent) and rinsing (e.g. applying water using a wet cloth). Optionally, the bag is patted dry (e.g. with a dry cloth) before heating. Although heat-resistant polymer films such as nylon or polypropylene are able to withstand heating for a short time, they may still be susceptible to deformation or damage if excessive heat is applied. Accordingly, one method of heating comprises applying forced hot air for a period of time only until cloth is dry to the touch.

EXAMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Among the various embodiments disclosed herein are the examplary embodiments (EEs) provided below.

- 1. A containment bag comprising an envelope having an opening, wherein:
  - a. the envelope wall comprises one or more layers of activated charcoal cloth;
  - b. the envelope wall comprises a closure mechanism for closing the envelope about the opening.
  - c. optionally, the envelope wall comprises a non-porous layer.
- 2. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the envelope wall comprises two layers of activated charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer positioned between the layers of activated charcoal cloth.
- 3. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the envelope wall comprises a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism.
- 4. The containment bag of EE 3, wherein the bag comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering the opening.
- 5. The containment bag of EE 4, wherein the holding mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop mechanism, a tongue and groove mechanism, a zipper, a track-type mechanism, a non-track type mechanism, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and a magnet.
- 6. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop closure, a tongue and groove closure, a zipper, a track-type closures, non-track type closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and interacting magnetic strips.
- 7. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the bag is rigid or flexible.
- 8. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the bag is provided as a liner for a rigid container.
- 9. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop closure, a tongue and groove closure, a zipper, a track-type closures, non-track type closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and interacting magnetic strips.
- 10. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop closure, a tongue and groove closure, a zipper, a track-type closures, non-track type closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and interacting magnetic strips.
- 11. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the closure mechanism comprises interacting components positioned on opposing walls of the envelope and the envelope further comprises a track type alignment tool configured to position the interacting components in proximity to each other.
- 12. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, further comprising an inner flap of activated charcoal cloth, wherein the inner flap is:
  - a. in the lumen of envelope;
  - b. configured to cover the luminal side of the closure mechanism.
- 13. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-6 and 8, wherein the bag is rigid or flexible.
- 14. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-7, wherein the bag is provided as a liner for a rigid container.
- 15. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the bag comprises a non-porous layer made from a material selected from: a polymer, a plastic, a thermoplastic, a metal, and a non-porous film.
- 16. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the bag is reactivatable.
- 17. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the envelope comprises a layer of non porous material selected from: a polyolefin, polyalkylene, a polyethylene, Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g. PVDC), PCTFE, polyamide (nylons), a metal, and a coated polymer.
- 18. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-12, wherein the envelope comprises a layer of non porous material selected from: a polyolefin, polyalkylene, Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), a polyethylene, Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g. PVDC), PCTFE, polyamide (nylons), a metal, and a coated polymer.
- 19. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-12, wherein the bag is reactivatable.
- 20. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the envelope is a sewn envelope.
- 21. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-16 wherein the envelope is a sewn envelope.
- 22. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the bag is any size selected from the group consisting of: pocket size, duffle bag size, and from pocket size to duffle bag size.
- 23. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-16, wherein the bag is any size selected from the group consisting of: pocket size, duffle bag size, and from pocket size to duffle bag size.

The citations provided herein are hereby incorporated by reference for the cited subject matter.

EXAMPLES
Example 1
Containment Bag

FIG. 1 depicts a containment bag of the present invention with a three-ply envelope and a double hook and loop closure system. The open position is depicted in FIG. 1a. The closed position is depicted in FIG. 1b

The bag comprises an envelope 1 having an opening 10 to allow an odorous material (not shown) to be placed in the envelope 1. As a closure mechanism, the bag comprises a strip of hook 2 and a strip of loop 3 on opposing segments of the envelope wall that are joined together by the user to seal the envelope 1 about the opening 10. The bag further comprises a flap 4 configured for covering the opening and closure mechanism when the flap 4 is folded over, as depicted in FIG. 1

When folded over, the flap is held in place snugly across the opening 10 by a flap-holding mechanism such as a hook and loop mechanism comprising a strip of hook 5 and a strip of loop 6.

The envelope 1 comprises a three-ply configuration, as depicted in FIG. 2. FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b depict the top view and side view, respectively, of the three-ply envelope 1. FIG. 2c depicts an exploded view of the three-ply envelope 1.

The inner ply 7 and the outer ply 9 are each a layer of activated charcoal. The inner ply 7 is Zorflex™. The outer ply 9 is model #9003 from Freudenberg Non-Woven Group. A layer of non-porous 1.5 mil polypropylene film is provided as middle ply 8, sandwiched between the inner ply 7 and the outer ply 9. The use of a thin 1.5 mil film produced a flexible envelope.

As depicted in FIG. 2c, the envelope 1 can be produced, for example, by independently constructing the three plies 7, 8, 9, then placing the middle ply 8 in the outer ply 9 and placing the inner ply 7 in the middle ply 8. The inner ply 7 and outer ply 9 can then be sewn together. If stitching or stapling is used to sew plies together, the inner and outer plies can be sewn together at one or more edges without piercing the gas impermeable layer 8, for example, the edges of the flap 4 and the edge at opening 10. This insures that no passageways are formed in the non-porous layer that might allow passage of odor molecules.

This bag provides superior odor-containment of an odorous material placed inside the bag. This configuration provides several superior properties:

- a. The three-ply configuration of the envelope wall provides three independent stages of protection from the escape of odor;
- b. The double hook and loop closure system provides a closure mechanism to seal the envelope as well as a flap of envelope wall to impart the three-stages of filtering protection to the envelope seal.

Example 2
Duffel Bag

FIG. 3 depicts a containment bag of the present invention with a three-ply envelope and a double closure system. Specifically, the bag is a duffel bag with dimensions 12″×12″×24″ (when expanded). FIG. 3a depicts the perspective view. FIG. 3b depicts the side view. FIG. 3c depicts a magnified side view of bag portion at opening 12.

The envelope 11 is made from the same three-ply material used in the bag detailed in Example 1. The bag comprises an opening 12 to allow an odorous material (not shown) to be placed inside. As a closure mechanism 14, the bag comprises a strip of hook and a strip of loop on opposing segments of the envelope 11. The bag further comprises a flap 13 configured for covering the opening and closure mechanism when the flap 4 is folded over, as depicted in the figure. When folded over, the flap is held in place by a flap-holding mechanism 15 such as a hook and loop mechanism comprising a strip of hook and a strip of loop.

As an optional feature, the bag comprises a zipper 16 or other sliding or track type alignment tool. The zipper is placed alongside or parallel to the closure mechanism 14. Such a zipper (or other slidable closure mechanism) can be used to ensure proper alignment of interacting components (e.g. hook and loop) on opposing segments of the envelope wall 11, which are manually interlocked. Surprisingly, when combined with a closure mechanism of the non-sliding or non-track type (e.g. hook and loop), this sliding- or track-type alignment tool substantially reduces the time required by the user to properly close the closure mechanism 14. Further, this tool substantially reduces user error when closing the closure mechanism, ensuring proper containment of odors. Such an alignment tool is especially useful when the opening is larger, e.g. as common on duffel bags.

This bag provides superior odor-containment of an odorous material placed inside the bag. This configuration provides several superior properties:

- a. The three-ply configuration of the envelope wall provides three independent stages of protection from the escape of odor;
- b. The double hook and loop closure system provides a closure mechanism to seal the envelope as well as a flap of envelope wall to impart the three-stages of protection to the envelope seal.

Example 3
Odor Containment—Human Smell Test

Human Smell Test 1.

Several bag designs were tested for their ability to contain odors of odorous materials. Each of the bags comprised an envelope having two opposing 6″×6″ walls attached at three of the four edges, leaving an opening at one edge. A hook and loop closure mechanism was provided along the inner edge at the opening. The bag designs were as follows:

- A1. An envelope made from a single layer of AC cloth.
- A2. A two-ply envelope made from two layers of AC cloth. The bag included a double closure mechanism by providing a flap formed by an extension of one of the envelope walls at the edge having the opening, and providing a second hook and loop mechanism on the flap portion to secure the flap tightly over the opening.
- A3. A three-ply envelope, with the inner and outer plies each made from a layer of activated charcoal cloth and the intermediate ply made from a non-porous layer of 1.5 mil polypropylene.
- A4. A bag according to Example 1. This bag combined the double closure mechanism of the A2 bag with the three-ply configuration of the A3 bag.

Each bag was filled with odorous materials having a sharp or pungent smell and human participants attempted to detect any smell originating from the bags. The bags were smelled by the participants at two independent distances with respect to the participant's nose: about six inches at less than 1 inch.

The results were as follows:

Each participant was able to detect and recognize smells from Bags A1 and A2 when placed about 6 inches away. Participants noted that the smells from bag A1 were stronger than from A2.

Surprisingly, participants could not detect any smells from bags A3 or A4 when placed at 6 inches from their nose. This finding indicates that a three-ply configuration comprising a non-porous material such as polypropylene provides a superior bag.

Further surprising, however, is that when held at close range (less than an inch) participants were able to detect smells from bag A3 but not A4. This finding indicates that odors are able to escape a single closure mechanism and that a double-closure mechanism can be used to contain escaping odors.

Unexpectedly, only bag A4 was able to completely contain the smell of all odorous materials at any distance. No participant could detect an odor from bag A4 when any odorous material was placed in the bag, even when the participants placed their noses directly against the bag. This finding indicates that a superior bag is obtained by providing a three-ply configuration, as taught herein, with a double closure mechanism.

Human Smell Test 2.

Several 4″×6″ bags according to Example 1 were independently filled with limburger cheese, a mixture of ripe fruit, cinnamon, herbs, or canine feces. These test materials were chosen because they are very odorous, having a sharp or pungent smell and are known to be extremely unpleasant or otherwise easily recognizable to humans. For the limburger cheese experiment, the bag was filled with cheese and stored at room temperature for two months in an attempt to increase the aroma and saturate the filtering potential of the bag. Surprisingly, human participants could not detect any smell from any bags of the present invention when smelled from any distance. This data indicates that the bags were able to contain the most pungent odors, even over a prolonged period of storage.

Example 4
Odor Containment—Canine Smell Tests

Due to the availability of fruit-sniffing canines, ripe fruits (mangos) were selected as a test odorous material in canine-based smell tests.

Canine Experiment 1:

The following test envelopes were provided:

B1. A sandwich-sized polyethylene ZIP LOK™ baggie was provided as a non-porous layer and filled with slices of mangos as an odorous material. The ZIP LOK™ baggie was placed in a small VHS-sized cardboard box. A layer of activated charcoal cloth was wrapped around the small box and the cloth edges were sealed together with strips of adhesive tape to provide a first closure mechanism. A flap of the activated charcoal cloth was laid over the first closure and sealed again with adhesive tape, thereby providing a double closure mechanism.

B2. The testant was the same as B1 except that it included a second layer of activated charcoal cloth.

B3. The testant was the same as B1 except that the activated charcoal layer was washed and heat dried 10 times as 10 independent reactivating procedures.

B4. The testant was the same as B1 except that it lacked the layer of activated charcoal cloth.

All testants contained the same amount of sliced mango. To insure that all testants were indistinguishable by sight, each testant was placed in an identical medium sized cardboard box.

As negative controls, the following three testants were provided: B5 included only the medium sized box. B6 included a medium sized box filled with Styrofoam packing peanuts. B7 included the medium sized box with a small VHS-sized cardboard box inside.

Testants B1-B7 were filled with the odorous material and stored for 24 hours at room temperature before testing. The experiment was conducted as follows:

Testants B1-B7 were placed randomly on the floor with each other, spaced apart enough that the participant could walk around and inspect each box. The participant was a canine professionally trained and used to sniff out and identify packages containing fruit. The canine was allowed to inspect each testant in an attempt to identify the boxes containing the fruit.

As expected, the canine did not identify the negative controls. Surprisingly, the canine was not able to identify any of testants B1-B3 but did identify testant B4 (by sitting down next to the testant, as trained).

Canine Experiment 2:

A second fruit sniffing canine was used in this experiment. A 6″×6″ bag according Example 1 was filled with slices of apples and stored at room temperature for 24 hours. The bag was placed on the floor in a confined area among other items which did not contain fruit. The canine was allowed to search the area in an attempt to identify fruit. The canine was allowed to inspect the bag containing the fruit but, surprisingly, did not identify the bag as containing fruit (did not sit down next to the bag). The bag was opened and the test was repeated. The canine immediately identified the open bag containing the fruit.

Canine Experiment 3

Third and fourth sniffing canines were used in this experiment. A gallon sized non-porous polyethylene ZIP LOK™ bag was filled with a mixture of fruit (sliced mango, sliced passion fruit, sliced oranges, sliced apples, banana peels, sliced avocado and sliced lemons) and placed in a 12″×12″×24″ duffel bag according to Example 2. The ZIP LOK bag was easily identified as containing fruit by a human smell test before placing the bag in the duffel bag. The duffel bag containing the fruit was then stored at room temperature for 1 week prior to testing. This storage period was performed to allow the fruit to gain aroma. The storage period was also used in an attempt to saturate the filtering capacity of the bag. After the storage period, the duffel bag was smelled by a human tester, who could not detect any smell from the bag, and then placed on the floor in a confined area among other items which did not contain fruit. The canine was allowed to search the area in an attempt to identify fruit. The canine specifically inspected the duffel bag containing the fruit but, surprisingly, did not react to the bag containing fruit (did not sit down next to the bag). The bag was opened and the test was repeated. The canine immediately reacted to the open bag containing the fruit.

The results of the canine tests are indeed unexpected. Canines have a sense of smell far superior to that of humans, able to detect odor molecules on the order of 10 parts per billion to 10 parts per trillion. Canines have such an extraordinary sense of smell, it is known to be nearly impossible, if not impossible, to mask or hide odorous materials from these animals. Attempts to do so typically involve serially vacuum sealing an odorous material a number of times and masking scent using various methods. These attempts have found limited success. Accordingly, it is quite remarkable that reusable bags of the present invention, with simple, resealable closures, were able to effectively contain the smell of an odorous material from a canine trained to identify the odorous material, even after prolonged storage.

Odor Containment Bag

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