The present invention relates to packages and structures and methods for releasing active agents in such packages. More specifically, the present invention relates to active agents, such as freshness-extension agents, odor management agents, and other functional agents, and structures and methods for releasing such active agents to extend the freshness of perishable products and manage or control the odor related to such products disposed within such packages.
The use of packages for a number of household and industrial purposes has gained wide acceptance. For example, bags and containers are commonly used by commercial entities and consumers to store perishable products and items. Also for example, bags or liners are commonly used in industrial settings and households to collect garbage or waste.
Reclosable packages, such as food containers with fitted or hinged lids, and bags with push to close or slider fasteners, are a great convenience to suppliers and consumers of pre-packaged perishables, especially for products such as luncheon meats and cheeses where, typically, only a portion of the product is used at any given time. Reclosable packages are also especially convenient for in-home use to store leftover perishable products. A problem with these reclosable packages, however, is that they do not contain any feature that serves to extend the time period that the perishable can be stored in the package and remain fresh. Thus, the contents of the package may spoil sooner and, if so, the contents will be no longer suitable for human consumption. The cost of perishable spoilage is a significant problem for both consumers and commercial users of reclosable packages.
One attempt to address the problem of perishable spoilage has involved using layered tamper resistant seals that are substantially impermeable to oxygen. In this type of system, as soon as the packaging is first opened, the seal is broken and does not further inhibit spoilage of the perishable. This type of system thus addresses only the issue of perishable spoilage before the package is initially opened, and does not serve the in-home user who is placing leftover perishable products into the storage bags. A need therefore exists for a package with a feature that inhibits perishable spoilage.
Packages such as thermoplastic bags or liners are also commonly used as waste or garbage bags. Generally, such bags are constructed from a structure having two layers of thermoplastic film joined along three sides and having a mouth formed along the fourth side. This basic structure has been adapted to a range of sizes and configurations that vary with the intended use of the bag.
A garbage bag or liner is often used to collect waste that can and often does produce unpleasant odors. To address this problem, manufacturers have combined a scented resin with one or more polymeric resins during formation of such bags. The scented resin is therefore distributed uniformly throughout the bag. Such a waste bag assists in masking, neutralizing, and/or reducing at least some of the odors.
However, such waste bags can present a number of disadvantages. For instance, because the scented resin is distributed throughout the bag, the scent is not concentrated where a user is likely to encounter the unpleasant odors (e.g., the mouth of the bag). Further, manufacturing difficulties can arise from such bags. For example, to obtain a desired amount of scent proximate the mouth of the bag, an excess of scent material may need to be distributed throughout the remainder of the bag, which can result in an overpowering scent. Of course, if an insufficient amount of scent material is used, the scent provided may not be suitable to mask, neutralize, or reduce the unpleasant odors. Additionally, because the scented resin used in such garbage bags is likely to be more expensive than other polymeric resins used in forming the garbage bags, it can be economically undesirable to distribute relatively equal amounts of scented resin throughout the bag. A need therefore exists for a package with a feature that manages odor without such disadvantages.
Packages with active agents are disclosed herein.
Generally, each of the disclosed packages of the present invention has a pair of opposing body panels joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides, a reclosable fastener extending along a mouth formed opposite the bottom, and at least one active agent.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with a freshness-extension agent that is associated with at least one of the body panels of the package for communication with an interior of the package and to inhibit spoilage of perishable product disposed therein. The freshness-extension agent is included in at least one of a coating, a patch, a pouch, and a tape applied to the at least one of the body panels. Alternatively, the freshness-extension agent is distributed in the at least one of the body panels. For example, the freshness-extension agent can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in the at least one of the body panels. An isothiocyanate compound, such as allyl isothiocyanate, can be included as the freshness-extension agent. The freshness-extension agent can further include an acid and/or a fragrant.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a structure to selectively initiate release of the freshness-extension agent is provided. Alternatively, the freshness-extension agent is released by humidity.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a permeable freshness-extension layer includes the freshness-extension agent. The permeable freshness-extension layer includes a release agent. In some embodiments, a removeable cover that is removably attached to at least a portion of the freshness-extension layer is provided, in which the freshness-extension layer is secured to one of the body panels of a reclosable package and the removeable cover is secured to the other of the body panels of the reclosable package.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a barrier layer associated with at least one of the body panels of a reclosable package is provided The barrier layer is attached to the at least one of the body panels via at least one of an adhesive, a co-extrusion, a heat seal, and a weld.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a diffusion layer is provided and disposed adjacent to a freshness-extension layer that includes the freshness-extension agent. The diffusion layer is located closer to an interior of a reclosable package than the freshness-extension layer.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, at least one of the body panels of a reclosable package defines a perforation extending therethrough, and a freshness-extension layer including the freshness-extension agent is disposed on the exterior of the at least one of the body panels adjacent the perforation.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a freshness-extension layer including the freshness-extension agent is attached to one of the body panels of a reclosable package. The freshness-extension layer includes a one-time breakable element that extends between and that is secured to the opposing body panels of the reclosable package.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a reclosable package is provided with a first opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a second opposing body panel having an inner surface and an outer surface, a reclosable polymeric seal, and a polymeric freshness-extension structure. The opposing body panels are joined along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth at one end and an interior space. The reclosable polymeric seal extends along the one end of the inner surface of the first and second opposing body panels. The polymeric freshness-extension structure includes a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer and a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer. The first polymeric layer is attached to the package such that the freshness-extension agent of the second layer is in communication with the interior space.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a freshness-extension structure is provided with a first polymeric layer being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent, and a removable cover removably attached to at least a portion of the second polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer is adjacent to the first polymeric layer.
These and other features of the disclosed packages of the present invention can be more fully understood by referring to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. The drawings are not drawn to scale, but show only relative dimensions.
a is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with one layer according to one embodiment of the present invention;
b is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
c is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
d is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag comprising a polymeric structure with two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention;
a is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag that includes a polymeric structure with four layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
b is a partial cross-sectional view of one side of a reclosable package or bag that includes a polymeric structure with six layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise two layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
b is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise two layers according to another embodiment of the present invention;
c is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag that includes two polymeric structures that each comprise three layers according to one embodiment of the present invention;
a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag with a polymeric structure disposed therebetween, in which the polymeric structure includes a one-time breakable element.
b is a partial cross-section view showing the reclosable package or bag of
a is a partial cross-section view of two sides of a reclosable package or bag, in which one side includes a polymeric structure that comprises two layers, and in which the polymeric structure is connected to the other side by a removable element; and
b is a partial cross-section view showing the reclosable package or bag of
The present invention relates to packages, packaging materials, and other related structures with an active agent incorporated therein. As such, the invention has applications for various flexible and rigid containers and packages, such as reclosable plastic bags, waste bags and liners, rigid trash containers, air-tight containers, lunch boxes, and packaging wraps and foils commonly used for perishable packaging or perishable covering.
As used herein, the term “package” can be understood to include any kind of package or container, such as flexible plastic bags and rigid containers, as well as foils or wraps commonly used to package or store perishable items.
As used herein, the term “active agent” can be understood to include any agent, ingredient, or composition that provides an enhancing or beneficial effect within a package or container. An active agent can include a “freshness-extension” agent for extending the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishables stored in a package, an “odor management” agent for masking, neutralizing and/or reducing odors from the package, or another functional agent.
Each of the active agents of the present invention can be used in combination with a package. More specifically, each freshness-extension agent of the present invention can be used to inhibit spoilage of food products or other perishables in the package, and each odor management agent of the present invention can be used to reduce, neutralize, and/or mask odors from the package. Each of the active agents of the present invention can be disposed in the environment of the package, e.g., disposed in the form of a coating, patch, pouch, or tape that is attached to a component of the package; extruded with a component of the package; sprayed, brushed, coated, laminated, or stamped onto a component of the package; impregnated into a component of the package; and/or distributed in the material of a component of the package, such as in the form of microcapsules.
For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be disposed in the environment of a polymeric bag for storing perishable items. The polymeric bag can be intended for consumer storage of food products (e.g., leftover food products) or applications, such as “form, fill, and seal” food packaging operations. The polymeric bags can include non-reclosable and reclosable polymeric bags. Reclosable polymeric bags are typically made to be reclosable via reclosable elements or fasteners, such as resealable adhesive or cohesive seals, mated tracks, and mated dimples. The mated tracks can be opened and closed by applying finger pressure or by using an auxiliary device, such as a slider. Some examples of reclosable polymeric bags include the bags disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,067,208 and 6,147,588 and U.S. patent application Publication No. 2004/0066985, the contents of which documents are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
Further for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can also be disposed in the environment of a rigid package for storing perishables, such as bakery containers, deli containers, fruit containers, lunch boxes, and roaster containers. Some examples of containers include containers disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,042,586, 6,257,401, 6,349,857, 6,644,494, 6,845,878 and U.S. patent pplication Publication Nos. 2004/0074902 and 2005/0000966, the contents of which documents are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
Additionally for purposes of illustration and not limitation, the odor management agents of the present invention can be used in the environment of bags, liners and rigid trash containers for collecting garbage or waste and other containers for collecting items with undesirable odors, such as laundry and diapers. Such waste bags can include a tie feature that assists in closing the bag or liner securely, forming a handle for carrying the bag or liner to be disposed, and/or facilitating the opening of the bag or the liner. Some examples of waste bags include the bags disclosed in U.S. patent application Publication No. 2003/0223657, the contents of which document are expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
Illustrative embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the disclosed packages and related structures and active agents. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the packages of the present invention are described in the context of reclosable polymeric bags. One or more examples of the illustrative embodiments are shown in the drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that each disclosed bag having an active agent can be adapted and modified to provide alternative embodiments of bags, containers, and other packages with active agents for other applications, and that other additions and modifications can be made to the disclosed packages and active agents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, features of the illustrative embodiments can be combined, separated, interchanged, and/or rearranged to generate other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.
Turning now to the drawings,
Referring to
The first and second profiles 26, 32 are releasably engageable with each other to provide a reclosable seal to the package 10. An optional breakable element 12 that initially extends from the first fin portion 28 to the second fin portion 34 can be used. The breakable element 12 of
The reclosable package 10 can further include an optional slider mechanism 36 (
The package 10 of
It is contemplated that other end terminations can be used instead of the above-described end terminations 37. For example, an end weld can be formed by heated bars pressed against the end of the fastener, ultrasonic welding, or other ways known in the art.
As illustrated in
A one-time breakable element 12 not only provides a consumer with the assurance that a newly purchased package has not been opened before, but also provides a good initial seal that preserves the freshness of the perishable contents of the package prior to its initial opening and can inhibit or prevent the active agent from being activated by an activation-triggering condition, such as moisture. Since the reclosable closure arrangements of
Connected to the first body panel inner surface 16b is the agent structure 50 that contains at least one active agent as schematically depicted in
The agent structure 50 can be provided in a form and structure suitable for the desired effect of the agent and the structure of the package. For example, in some embodiments, the agent structure 50 can be in the form of a coating, a patch, a tape, a pouch, a combination thereof, or in any other form that can be incorporated or integrated into the structure of the package 10. The selection of a coating, patch, or pouch, or tape is often dependent on the type of active agent being used. For example, an active agent in a powder form (e.g., minerals containing chemistry) can be placed in an air-permeable pouch, rather than a patch because it is often difficult to embed powders in a patch. Alternatively, an active agent in a powder form can be dusted onto a component of the package, such as a body panel. Non-limiting examples of powdery active agents that can be incorporated into the agent structure 50 include perlite, calcium carbonate, kaolin, and ASEPTROL® antimicrobial manufactured by Engelhard.
If a tape or patch is used to support the agent structure 50, the tape or patch can include an adhesive, a patch-like component, and/or a release system such as a slip additive which assists in inhibiting or preventing the agent structure from sticking to the adhesive. For example, the release system can be located on a surface of the tape or patch that is located distally from the surface that contacts the body panel to which the tape or patch is to be attached, so that sticking is inhibited or prevented when the package is wound into a roll. Materials such as siloxane and glycerol monostearate can be among the components of such a release system.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the active agent can be extruded with the body panel 16. For example, the active agent can be blended into the body panel material in oil or powder form, or can be distributed in the form of microcapsules in the material of the body panel 16. In a preferred embodiment, the active agent is microencapsulated prior to being integrated into the package structure. Microencapsulation encloses the active agent within a polymeric material that can withstand heat during package processing and manufacturing, but which degrades, dissolves, or otherwise breaks open and releases the active agent upon contact with pre-determined environmental factors such as moisture. The active agent can be encapsulated into microcapsules, and the microcapsules can be interspersed with the molten material of the body panel and extruded into body panel 16 during bulk production.
The body panel 16 can be otherwise impregnated with the active agent. It is also contemplated that the active agent can be sprayed, brushed, coated, laminated, stamped, or otherwise applied onto the body panel 16.
In some embodiments, the active agent includes one or more freshness-extension agents. The freshness-extension agent can be, for example, a natural oil, an anti-microbial, a modified atmosphere, or another substance that can extend the freshness or shelf life of food products or other perishables. For example, some non-limiting examples of freshness-extension ingredients include isothiocyanate such as allyl isothiocyanate (AIT) from natural sources, d-limonene, eugenol, allicin, isothymol, thymol, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate, ascorbic acid, citric acid, cinnamic aldehyde, mustard, cinnamon, peppermint, spearmint, triclosan, Chinese chive (Allium tuberosum), cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), comi fructus (Cornus officinalis), allyl cyanide, 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane, allyl thiocyanate, Lactobacillus reuteri, methyl isothiocyanate, cinnamon bark oil, lemon grass oil, thyme oil, methyl jasmonate, tea tree oil, ethyl alcohol, Salicylaldehyde, carvacrol, cymene, essential oil extracts of various onions, essential oil extract of garlic, berry phenolic extracts from cranberry, cloudberry, raspberry, strawberry, and bilberry, ellagitannins from cranberry, cloudberry, raspberry, strawberry, and bilberry, essential oils from nutmeg, mint, clove, oregano, cinnamon, sassafras, sage, thyme and rosemary, vanillin, vanillyl alcohol, vanillic acid, diacetyl, natural honey, fluorine dioxide, carbon dioxide, modified atmospheres and combinations thereof. The modified atmosphere can include nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and combination thereof.
AIT, which can be naturally obtained from plants or perishables such as mustard and wasabi, is particularly advantageous as a freshness-extension agent for its anti-microbial properties. Preferably, the AIT is produced from plants such as mustard, which contains glucosinolate and myrosinase enzyme. Myrosinase and glucosinolate react with each other to produce AIT and, because the reaction involves hydrolysis, humidity activates AIT production. AIT has been shown to exhibit anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and, as it is released in a gaseous form throughout the package atmosphere, it enhances the atmosphere so as to inhibit bacterial growth and therefore extend perishable freshness. Hence, AIT-producing products, including wasabi, horseradish and mustard in various forms, such as extract, powder, oil, or ground seed, can be used as the freshness-extension agent in embodiments of the present invention.
In some embodiments, an AIT-containing freshness-extension agent can also be used in combination with another functional agent. For example, in one such embodiment, AIT is combined with an acid, which greatly enhances the production of AIT from mustard and, thus, the anti-microbial effect of mustard. Thus, if ground mustard seed is used as the freshness-extension agent, it can be combined, in a desired ratio, with anhydrous acid such as anhydrous citric acid for increased AIT production and, thus, enhanced freshness-extension function.
The freshness-extension agent can also provide other enhancement functions, and therefore can be used for such other purposes. In some embodiments, the freshness-extension agent can include a freshness component for extending food freshness and an odor component for masking, reducing, and/or neutralizing only a pungent odor of the freshness component, but not other odors of the contents stored in a package. Preferably, the odor component does not mask the odors of the contents stored in the package, such as food odors or food spoilage odors, so that decay or spoilage of the contents can be detected by smell. For example, a freshness-extension agent including an AIT freshness component can also include a fragrant component, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or citrus oil, which can mask the pungent odor of AIT, but not mask or otherwise affect the odor of the stored contents. Preferably, the freshness-extension agent does not impart its own organoleptic properties to the stored contents, and thus permits a user to readily detect decay or spoilage of stored contents by smell.
Alternatively, in some embodiments, the agent structure 50 includes one or more odor management agents. Advantageously, the odor management agent can be incorporated into packages configured for collecting garbage or waste to mask, neutralize, and/or reduce undesirable odors. Alternatively, the odor management agent can be used to provide or create an odor to a package. An odor management agent can thus be incorporated into thermoplastic bags or liners and other containers, such as garbage or waste bags, diaper containers, laundry bags, storage bags, and disposable medical bags or containers.
Non-limiting examples of odor management agents include AIT, d-limonene, mustard, natural oils, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, ammonia, citronella, pine, flowery, and substituted esters such as METAZENE®.
A preferred embodiment of an odor management agent includes AIT, which agent can be provided by incorporating, for example, mustard in the agent structure 50. Mustard, whether in the form of ground mustard seed, powder, oil, or paste, can be provided alone or in combination with an acid (such as citric acid) to catalyze the production of AIT from mustard and enhance the anti-microbial and odor management properties of the mustard. Because of its effectiveness in extending perishable freshness as previously described herein, AIT can provide multiple functions when incorporated into a perishable package, e.g., AIT can perform both freshness-extension and odor-management functions.
In some embodiments, the odor management agent can include an additional ingredient for providing a pleasant or desired odor or scent to a user. For example, a natural oil such as lemon grass oil can be used to manage odors emanating from a package, to mask the odor of the primary odor management agent itself, or to make the odor of the odor management more pleasant to a user. It has been shown that a composition comprising ground mustard seed and anhydrous citric acid mixed with about 5% by weight of lemon grass oil is particularly effective at managing unpleasant odors.
If an agent structure 50 includes an aromatic or perfumery ingredient for providing a desired scent to a package, an additional material for enhancing scent concentration in the interior of the package can be included. For example, the agent structure 50 can include perlite to increase the scent concentration. Perlite is desirable for use because of its ability to retain scent, its stability, and its surface area. Non-limiting examples of other materials for enhancing scent include microspheres, talc, silicon, silicate such as aluminum silicate, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, or combinations thereof.
Further in accordance with the invention, the agent structure 50 can be provided with an activation system that is triggered when the reclosable package is opened or filled with contents. The activation system can be mechanical in nature, such as a perforation or a peel apart system that once separated initiates the release of the active agent. Another activation method can be based on the humidity or moisture level that is present in the package (e.g., which correlates to water activity of the contents). For example, a high amount of humidity can initiate a chemical or other reaction that subsequently releases a volatile chemical such as carbon dioxide or chlorine dioxide. In such an example, a greater amount of active agent is added when the humidity is higher in the reclosable package. Examples of reactions that are activated by a high humidity level are salt and acid reactions, such as sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, or sodium hypochlorite and citric acid. The release of AIT is also aided by humidity as previously explained. In such examples, a greater amount of active agent is released into the package atmosphere when the humidity increases.
During a method of operation of a reclosable package with a humidity-activated freshness extension agent, for example, perishables are placed in the interior of the package, and the humidity or moisture level in the perishables activates the freshness-extension agent. Additionally, if the agent structure is disposed proximate the mouth of a bag-like package or proximate the rim of a container-like package, selective activation or release can be accomplished. For example, the humidity or moisture level of the perishables can activate the agent as the perishables travel in the vicinity of the agent (e.g., through the mouth or past the rim of the package during the initial placement of the perishable products into the interior), while the perishable products remain disposed in the interior, and upon entry of air into the interior (e.g., during an opening of the package). Disposing the agent structure proximate the mouth or rim of a package can also be advantageous when maximum display of the contents is desired in a transparent package.
A humidity activation method can further be controlled by providing a barrier layer material. For example, it is preferable that the body panels provide a barrier layer or be formed of a barrier material so as to create an enclosed environment to prevent or inhibit the introduction of humidity and the release of active agent when the package is closed. As used herein, the terms “barrier layer” and “barrier material” include layers or materials that inhibit or otherwise control the release of an active agent into a package atmosphere, rather than layers or materials that completely block or prevent such release.
An example of such a material is polyethylene glycol (PEG) incorporated into low density polyethylenes (LDPE). Other materials providing a barrier to transfer of water, water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile or non-volatile active agents include but are not limited to polymers, copolymers, blends, extrusions, co-extrusions, coatings, metalization or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear medium-density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), oriented polypropylene (OPP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), acrylonitrile-EPDM-styrene (AES), ASA/AES copolymers, polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and their copolyamides, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), saran, ceramic filled polymers, nanocomposite polymers, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate (AC-MA), polyphenylene ether (PPB), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), thermoplastic elastomer, cellophane, nylon, polycarbonate (PC), modified polyolefins with barrier properties, cyclic olefin copolymeres, polyacrylonitriles, acrylonitrile copolymers, polyacetals, modified polyesters, acrylic derivatives, and inorganic barrier coatings.
It is also contemplated that other barrier materials such as foils and metallized polymers such as metallized oriented polypropylenes (OPP) can be used. The barrier layer is substantially impermeable to at least water vapor and active agents, and, in some embodiments, also to oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, or combinations thereof. The barrier layer thus inhibits or prevents water vapor (and, in some embodiments, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide) from entering the interior of the package, while inhibiting or preventing the active agent from escaping the interior of the package. An example of a cyclic olefin copolymer that can be used in forming the barrier layer is TOPAS® 8007. Useful cyclic olefin copolymers are believed to be available from several companies. For example, Ticona, a business of Celanese AG, in Summit N.J. has cyclic olefin copolymers available. Other companies that are believed to have cyclic olefin copolymers available include Nippon Zeon (Japan), Mitsui Chemical (Japan) and JSR (Japan), formerly know as Japan Synthetic Rubber. Ticona, a business of Celanese AG, has commercially available cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) under the designation TOPAS®. These cyclic olefin copolymers are believed to be prepared with feedstocks of norbornene and ethylene and the use of a metallocene catalyst. There are believed to be at least four grades of TOPAS® resins available (TOPAS® 8007, TOPAS® 6013, TOPAS® 6015 and TOPAS® 6017). The four grades of TOPAS® resins available have glass transition temperatures, Tg, of 80, 140, 160 and 180° C., respectively. The corresponding norbornene levels of the four grades of TOPAS® resins are 35, 48, 55 and 59 mole %.
The agent structure 50 can be made of polymeric materials including thermoplastic materials. Alternatively, if formed as part of the package, a polymeric matrix layer can be provided for impregnating or supporting a microencapsulated active agent into a component of the package, e.g., a body panel. The matrix layer of the agent structure 50 can be made of polyolefinic materials such as polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrenes, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of the matrix layer materials include polymers, copolymers or blends of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), linear medium-density polyethylene (LMDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), polyamide 6 polyamide 66 and their copolyamide, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyamides, polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyphenylene ether (PPE), thermoplastic elastomer, and cellulose and filled plastics. These materials generally provide a good barrier to water vapor, but allow permeation of oxygen and active agents. It may be desirable to have a patch, tape, or pouch that comprises polyethylene because of its recyclability. Another example of a material that can be used to form a patch, tape, or pouch structures is ethyl methyl acrylate (EMA). A surface of the patch, tape, or pouch can be formed of a porous non-woven material (e.g., gauze) that allows the active agent such as freshness extension or odor management agent to be released. For odor management, one of the layers of the odor management structure can further include a fragrance (e.g., a liquid fragrance), a scent-enhancing mineral, and/or a polymeric resin (e.g., LLDPE).
As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the amount of agent to be used in combination with a package will depend on the environment in which the agent is in use, e.g., the loss and release rates of the agent. The release rate refers to the rate at which the agent is released into the interior of the package, and the loss rate refers to the rate at which the released agent escapes from the interior of the package. Preferably, the agents of the present invention are disposed in amounts such that the release rate of the agent is greater than the loss rate of the agent during a pre-determined “shelf life” or duration of use, so that the presence of agent in the interior of a package is replenished faster than it is lost, thus ensuring effective performance of the agent. The loss rate of the agent depends upon a variety of factors related to package design, construction, and use.
It is contemplated that additional layers can be added to the coating, patch, pouch, or tape. For example, a barrier layer can be added to assist in keeping the freshness-extension agent in communication with the interior of the reclosable package and, thus, assist in preventing or inhibiting the freshness-extension agent from permeating through the body panel.
For example, and with reference to the package embodiment of
For purposes of illustration, the disclosed packages of the present invention will now be further described herein with respect to freshness-extension agents. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the disclosed packages can be suitably modified to include other types of active agents.
In one such embodiment, the barrier layer can be located on an inner surface of a freshness-extension structure as shown in, for example,
One example depicted in
It is also contemplated that information can be printed on the freshness-extension structure 234 such as on the barrier layer. It is contemplated that the printing can occur on different locations of the structure. For enhanced visibility and readability of the printing, it may be desirable to print on the surface of the freshness-extension structure that is closest to the body panel when the structure is located in the interior of the reclosable package. For example, in
Referring to
It is contemplated that the third polymeric layer 220 can comprise a cyclic olefin copolymer. The third polymer layer can comprise from about 10 to about 80 wt. % or, more specifically, from about 20 to about 40 wt. % cyclic olefin copolymer to assist in reducing curling of the polymeric structure. While not being bound by theory, curling tends to be caused when the materials forming the polymeric-structure layers are not as compatible with each other because of, for example, their different shrink rates. The barrier layer can comprise a more crystalline material that does not shrink much, if any, over time as compared to the diffusion layer that can comprise a material, such as polyethylene, that tends to shrink over time. The disadvantage of such structure curl is that the edges tend to curl in a transverse direction upon itself and therefore cause processing problems. The curling of the polymeric structure can be reduced or inhibited by using a cyclic olefin copolymer in the third polymeric layer, whereby the first layer and the third polymeric layer become more compatible. The addition of a cyclic olefin copolymer to the third polymeric layer 220 also slows the permeation of the freshness extension agent into the interior of the reclosable package 250.
As discussed above, it is contemplated that the freshness-extension structure 254 of
Referring to
The reclosable package can include more than one freshness-extension structure that includes a freshness-extension agent therein. For example, the reclosable package can include two or three freshness-extension structures that each contain a freshness-extension agent.
A freshness-extension structure (e.g., a freshness-extension agent containing patch, tape, pouch, or coating) can vary in size and is dependent on factors such as the desired amount of freshness-extension, the particular freshness-extension agent being used, the number of freshness-extension structures being used in the reclosable package, and the size of the reclosable package. The dimensions of the freshness-extension structure are generally from about ½ inch or 1 inch to about 12 inches. Non-limiting examples of freshness-extension structure dimensions include ½ inch×1 inch, 1 inch by 1 inch, ½ inch×2 inches, 1 inch×6 inches, 2×4 inches, and 4×12 inches. The thicknesses of the freshness-extension structures can vary in the present invention but are generally less than about 20 mils, preferably from about 12 to 16 mils, and more preferably from about 14 to 15 mils.
According to another embodiment, the freshness-extension structure of the reclosable package is delivered in a non-woven matrix. The non-woven matrix can be impregnated after the non-woven matrix has been formed. The impregnation of the non-woven matrix can be accomplished by a freshness-extension agent coating. Alternatively, the non-woven matrix can be initially formed with the freshness-extension agent therein. According to a further embodiment, the freshness-extension agent of the reclosable package can be micro-encapsulated in a freshness-extension structure.
The freshness-extension structure being a patch, tape, pouch, or coating in one embodiment is located in the interior of a reclosable package or bag, such as the reclosable package 10. For example in
Alternatively, the freshness-extension structure being a coating, patch, pouch, or tape can be located on an exterior surface of an article or within layers of an article such that the freshness-extension agent is able to permeate into or communicate with the interior of the reclosable package. For example, the freshness-extension structure being a coating, patch, pouch, or tape can be located on an exterior surface of a reclosable package in which a portion of the body panel is removed such that the freshness-extension agent from the freshness-extension structure can permeate into the interior of the reclosable package. For example, referring to
In another example,
It is contemplated that a layer of a reclosable package can be permeable to the freshness-extension agent of the freshness-extension structure such that the freshness-extension agent is in communication with the interior of the reclosable package.
The diffusion layer 516 can be made of a suitable material that allows the freshness-extension agent to reach the interior of the reclosable package in a relatively quick fashion. Thus, materials providing permeation of water, water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, ethylene, volatile actives or nonvolatile active agents can be used for the diffusion layer. Examples of a diffusion layer 516 include polymers, copolymers, blends, extrusions, co-extrusions, coatings or laminations of: low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), metallocene (mPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyamide 6, polyamide 66 and their copolyamides, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), thermoplastic polyester (TPE), ethylene/ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), modified polystyrene, ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVAL or EVOH), polyacrylic acid (PAA), polylactic acid (PLA), filled polymers, hydrophilic nanocomposite polymers, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), thermoplastic elastomers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylpentene (PMP), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL), and cellulose acetate (CA), all of which have general affinity for moisture.
As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the same type of polymer material can be used in forming either the matrix, barrier, or diffusion layer, depending on the percentage ratio of the material in the layer composition, the quantity of the material in the layer composition (e.g., the thickness of the layer composition), and/or the method of fabrication. Thus, the use of a particular polymer material as a component for the matrix, barrier, or diffusion layer depends on its amount and manner of use.
It is contemplated that additional layers can be added in forming the reclosable packages shown in
The freshness-extension structure 214 can include a peelable cover. An example of such an embodiment is depicted in
According to one embodiment, a reclosable package is adapted to store items and comprises a first thermoplastic body panel, a second thermoplastic body panel, and at least one polymeric freshness-extension structure adapted to extend the freshness of items by increasing the time items can be stored in the article without spoiling. The first and second body panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides so as to form an open mouth. The joined first and second body panels form an interior space for storing items. The polymeric freshness-extension structure is attached to a surface of one or more the first and second body panels and is in communication with the interior space. The freshness-extension structure further includes a peelable cover in which the peelable cover is adapted to initially cover at least a portion of the polymeric freshness-extension structure.
According to another embodiment, a reclosable package can be used that includes two freshness-extension structures. For example, referring to
The first freshness-extension structure 714a comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can form a pouch. The first freshness-extension structure 714a comprises a first layer 716a being a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 719a being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The first layer 716a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 719a is directly adjacent to the first layer 716a. The first layer 716a is shown in
Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 714b comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. The second freshness-extension structure 714b comprises a third layer 716b being a barrier layer, and a fourth polymeric layer 719b being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The fourth polymeric layer 719b is directly adjacent to the third layer 716b. The third layer 716b can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 719a is releasably heat sealed at selected locations to the fourth polymeric layer 719b such that the respective freshness-extension agent permeates into the interior of the reclosable package 710 via interior area 717.
The interior area 717 can be formed by having the first and second freshness-extension structures 714a,b curl with respect to each other. As shown in
It is contemplated that additional layers can be used in forming the two freshness-extension structures. For example, in
The first freshness-extension structure 734a comprises three layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can form a pouch or a coating. The first freshness-extension structure 734a comprises a first layer 716a being a barrier layer, a second polymeric layer 718a comprising a freshness-extension agent, and a third polymeric 720a being a diffusion layer. The first layer 716a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 718a is located between the first and third layers 716a, 720a. The first layer 716a is shown in
Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 734b comprises three layers and is a patch or tape. The second thermoplastic freshness-extension structure 734b comprises a fourth layer 716b being a barrier layer, a fifth polymeric layer 718b comprising a freshness-extension agent, and a sixth polymeric layer 720b being a diffusion layer. The fourth layer 716b can be a polymeric layer. The fifth polymeric layer 718b is located between the fourth and sixth polymeric layers 716b, 720b. The third polymeric layer 720a is heat sealed at selected locations to the sixth polymeric layer 720b such that the respective freshness-extension agent of the second polymeric layer 718a and the fifth polymeric layer 718b is adapted to enter the interior space of the reclosable package between the third polymeric layer 720a and the sixth polymeric layer 720b.
As discussed above, an interior area 727 can be formed by having the first and second freshness-extension structures 734a,b curl with respect to each other. As shown in
According to another embodiment, a reclosable package 810 is shown in
The first freshness-extension structure 814a comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. It is contemplated that the first and second freshness-extension structures can be in the form of a pouch. The first freshness-extension structure 814a comprises a first layer 816a being a barrier layer, and a second polymeric layer 819a being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The first layer 816a can be a polymeric layer. The second polymeric layer 819a is directly adjacent to the first layer 816a. The first layer 816a is shown in
Similarly, the second freshness-extension structure 814b comprises two layers and is a patch or tape. The second freshness-extension structure 814b comprises a third layer 816b being a barrier layer, and a fourth polymeric layer 819b being a diffusion layer and including a freshness-extension agent. The third layer 816b can be a polymeric layer. The fourth polymeric layer 819b is directly adjacent to the third layer 816b. The third layer 816b is shown in
It is contemplated that the first freshness-extension structure and the second freshness-extension structure can be formed of different compositions. For example, the first structure can include a first freshness-extension agent, while the second structure may be a second freshness-extension agent. In forming such an embodiment, the first and second freshness-extension structures can, for example, be formed by extruding two different patches, tapes, pouches, or by applying two different coatings.
Alternatively, the reclosable package can be formed by other than two or more layer structures. For example, a barrier layer need not be provided if the body panels 812 are formed of a suitable material to define a barrier layer. Furthermore, as shown in
According to yet another embodiment, the reclosable package can be formed by three of more layers. For example, as shown in
As previously described, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can contain an activation system that is triggered by a user opening a reclosable package or placing contents therein. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown and described with respect to
In accordance with another such aspect of the invention, a reclosable package 910 is shown in
As shown in
The one-time breakable element 921 can include one or more polymeric resins and polyolefins, and can be used with any of the previously-described freshness-extension structures. Polyolefins used as one-time breakable element include, but are not limited to, polyethylenes, polypropylenes, and combinations thereof. Some non-limiting types of polyethylenes include low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE), high density polyethylenes (HDPE), medium density polyethylenes (MDPE) and combinations thereof. Other non-limiting examples include plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisobutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs), or combinations thereof, including with polyethylenes and/or polypropylenes.
The one-time breakable element of the second layer 919 can include a one-time breakable preferential area of weakness or preferential tear area similar to the preferential areas of weakness or tear areas previously described herein or a one-time breakable adhesive or cohesive seal. Alternatively, the second layer 919 can be formed by selectively cross-linking the diffusion material to define the one-time breakable element. Generally, the bond between the second layer 919 and the adjacent layers must be stronger than the frangible portion of the one-time breakable element that joins portions 919a and 919b as described further below.
As shown in
In another such embodiment having a mechanical release mechanism, a reclosable package 1010 is shown in
As shown in
Alternatively, in some embodiments, the removable cover 1021 can cooperate with a slider of the fastener of the reclosable package 1010, so that the removable cover can be removed from the freshness-extension layer when the reclosable package 1010 is opened via the slider.
The freshness-extension structures of the present invention, such as a patch, tape, or pouch, can be attached to a package such as a reclosable bag by a pressure-sensitive self-adhesive. The pressure-sensitive self-adhesive can be any suitable adhesive that attaches the freshness-extension structure to the reclosable package. Non-limiting examples of pressure-sensitive adhesives that can be used include acrylic or rubber-based adhesives.
The freshness-extension structure being a tape or pouch can be roll fed onto a layer(s) of the reclosable package. The roll-fed freshness-extension structure being a tape or pouch can also initially include a release liner that assists in preventing or inhibiting the freshness-extension agent from sticking to itself before delivery to the reclosable package. The release liner, if used, is separated from the roll-fed freshness-extension tape or pouch before the tape or pouch is attached to the reclosable package or bag. Examples of release liners include silicon-coated paper. Release liners, however, may be undesirable because of the additional cost associated therewith. It is contemplated that the freshness-extension structure can be roll fed without the use of a release liner before being attached to the reclosable package or bag.
Alternatively, the freshness-extension structure being a patch or pouch can be magazine fed during attachment to the reclosable package. The patch is preferably magazine fed, while the pouch can be magazine or roll fed. The tape is preferably roll fed during attachment to the reclosable package. For example, the tape can be unwound, cut to length and attached to the reclosable package.
According to another embodiment, the freshness-extension structure patch, tape, or pouch can be heat sealed or welded (e.g., ultrasonically welded) directly to the reclosable package or bag. The freshness extension structure can be roll fed or magazine fed before being heat sealed or welded to the reclosable package. In a heat-sealing embodiment, a release liner would not likely be used because the freshness-extension structure without any adhesive should not stick to itself and the release liner adds an unnecessary cost. The freshness-extension structure can be attached to the reclosable package at several locations. The freshness-extension structure can be attached to the body panels during the formation of the heat seals. For example, the freshness-extension structure may be located between a side seal formed between the first and second body panels. It is contemplated that other attaching methods can be used.
The reclosable packages, such as reclosable package 10, can be formed of any suitable material, such as by a thermoplastic material suitable for storing or collecting items, including perishables storage. This, of course, includes common-sized reclosable packages such as pint storage and freezer bags, quart storage and freezer bags, and gallon storage and freezer bags. The reclosable packages are typically formed from polymeric materials such as polyolefinic materials. Non-limiting examples of polyolefinic materials include polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrene, and combinations thereof For example, some types of polyethylenes materials include high density polyethylenes (HDPE), low density polyethylenes (LDPE), linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE), and combinations thereof. It is also contemplated that materials such as plastomers, elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetates (EVA), ethyl methacrylates, polymethylpentene copolymers, polyisbutylenes, polyolefin ionomers, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) or combinations thereof, including polyethylenes, and/or polypropylenes may be used in forming the reclosable packages of the present invention. The thicknesses of the reclosable packages can vary in the present invention, but are generally from about 0.5 mil to about 5 mils and, more specifically, from about 1 mil to about 3 mils.
As previously described herein, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be used in combination with a body panel of a package. Alternatively and/or in combination, the freshness-extension agents of the present invention can be used in combination with fin portions of a fastener of a reclosable package, as further described in co-pending U.S. patent application No. [Attorney Docket No. 086012-38600-USPT], the contents of which application are expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
While the disclosed packages with active agents have been shown and described with reference to the illustrated embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and/or be able to ascertain many equivalents to those embodiments. Such equivalents are encompassed by the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims.
For example, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present invention has applications to various types of packages and containers, including unreclosable bags and liners, rigid containers such as plastic containers, lunch boxes, and rigid trash containers, and perishable packaging wraps and foils. Similarly, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the present invention has applications to active agents other than freshness-extension agents, such as odor management agents and other agents providing a desired function or effect on a package or the contents disposed therein.
Unless otherwise provided, when the articles “a” or “an” are used herein to modify a noun, they can be understood to include one or more than one of the modified noun.
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/375,188 filed on Feb. 26, 2003 and now pending, which application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/359,874 filed on Feb. 27, 2002. The present application also claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Patent Application Nos. 60/543,344 and 60/543,345, each filed on Feb. 10, 2004 and now pending. Each of the foregoing applications is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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60359874 | Feb 2002 | US | |
60543344 | Feb 2004 | US | |
60543345 | Feb 2004 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 10375188 | Feb 2003 | US |
Child | 11055575 | Feb 2005 | US |