CN117320969A

CN117320969A - Packaging containing water-soluble capsules

Info

Publication number: CN117320969A
Application number: CN202280034913.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: R·D·阿什顿; K·D·奥文斯
Original assignee: Unilever IP Holdings BV
Current assignee: Unilever IP Holdings BV
Priority date: 2021-05-14
Filing date: 2022-05-10
Publication date: 2023-12-29

Abstract

A container for a unit dose liquid detergent product, the container comprising a lid and a base, wherein at least 50% of the lid and/or base comprises a biodegradable material, wherein the base and top are co-operable to form a closed container and which are openable to access the contents by pulling them apart, the lid and base comprising a barrier coating and an optional adhesive for adhering the barrier coating to the lid and base, the container comprising a plurality of unit dose detergent products, and wherein the barrier coating and optional adhesive comprise from 0.1 to 5% by weight of the container in the absence of a unit dose detergent product.

Description

Packaging containing water-soluble capsules

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a product comprising a bulk quantity of laundry or machine dishwashing water-soluble capsules made of a water-soluble film contained in a biodegradable package.

Background

US2002/094942 (danneeles) discloses an article or package for containing and dispensing unit doses of a laundry additive in the form of an article. The package includes a plurality of laundry additive articles, a means for protecting the laundry articles from exposure to moisture prior to dispensing or use, and a container having a compartment and a closure for closing the plurality of articles in the container. The container may be a bucket, tray, can, bottle, pouch, bag, box, or some combination thereof, and is preferably made of a polymeric material. Optionally, the container may have a separation means for subdividing the container compartment into sub-compartments, such that the container may contain a plurality of different additives in the separate compartments. Optionally, but preferably, the container closure will have child-resistant features as well as a window or other means for viewing the contents of the package when the closure is in the closed position. The means for protecting the article from exposure to moisture may simply be a seal around the container closure, or it may comprise a separate seal for each laundry additive article. The seal for the individual articles is preferably a tray having a recess formed therein for receiving the laundry additive article and a polymeric film adhered to the tray over the recess to seal the article therein.

WO 02/20361 discloses an article or package for containing and dispensing unit doses of laundry additives in the form of articles. The package includes a plurality of laundry additive articles, a means for protecting the laundry articles from exposure to moisture prior to dispensing or use, and a container having a compartment and a closure for enclosing the plurality of articles in the container. The container may be a tub, tray, can, bottle, pouch, bag, box, or some combination thereof, and is preferably made of a polymeric material. Optionally, the container may have a separation means for subdividing the container compartment into sub-compartments, such that the container may contain a plurality of different additives in separate compartments. Optionally, but preferably, the container closure will have child-resistant features as well as a window or other means for viewing the contents of the package when the closure is in the closed position. The means for protecting the article from exposure to moisture may simply be a seal around the container closure, or it may comprise a separate seal for each laundry additive article. The seal for the individual articles is preferably a tray having a recess formed therein for receiving the laundry additive article and a polymer film adhered to the tray over the recess to seal the article therein.

WO 2016/198978 discloses a child resistant container comprising: a housing made of sheet material defining an interior volume and exhibiting a passage opening defined by a free edge, a closure system made of sheet material configured to define a closed state and an open state of the housing, the closure system including a pull tab having a closure portion movable relative to the housing free edge. The container comprises a security device made of sheet material, which security device exhibits: a first hook portion carried by the pull tab, a second hook portion engaged with the housing. The first and second hook portions are configured for stable engagement with each other in a closed state of the closure system and for defining a safe state: the first and second hook portions are configured in a safe state for preventing the closure system from switching from the closed state to the open state.

Water-soluble capsules are convenient, however, certain compositions require printing thereon to display instructions and other information to the consumer.

It is also desirable to limit access to the capsule, particularly for children, by incorporating child-resistant features into the package. Current capsules are typically packaged in plastic drums or bags. It is impermeable to water and the formulation contained. Rigid packages are currently recyclable, however, there is an environmental need to reduce the use of plastics. Compostable or biodegradable materials offer environmental advantages, however, the use of such materials is problematic due to their nature (propensity to biodegrade). If the capsule leaks from, for example, an incomplete seal, the package may be weakened by premature degradation of the biodegradable material in direct contact with the leaking formulation. The mechanical properties of the package are impaired. In the event that the weight and moisture of a large number of capsules may be expelled from the capsules, the integrity of any child resistant closure may be compromised. Thus, the package may be more accessible to the child, which is undesirable.

Furthermore, although plastic containers are typically tightly sealed and thus exhibit very low moisture vapor transmission rates, pulp or fiber containers tend to have high water transmission properties. This means that the likelihood of water ingress and/or egress is much higher and thus has an impact on the physical properties of such unit dose products inside the fibre or pulp based container. A particular feature is that unit dose products containing detergent compositions having 5 to 15% water tend to adhere to the inner surfaces of such containers when stored. When stored in a paper-based container, this sticking is caused by the outer surface being negatively affected by water penetration. By printing internally we find that this property is significantly reduced. It is unexpected but desirable that the location of printing (registration) be helpful in the performance of unit dose products in biodegradable packaging such as pulp or fiber.

Disclosure of Invention

Thus, in a first aspect, there is provided a container for a unit dose liquid detergent product, the container comprising a lid and a base, wherein at least 50% of the lid and/or base comprises biodegradable material, wherein the base and top are co-operable to form a closed container and which are openable to access the contents by pulling them apart, the lid and base comprising a barrier coating and an optional adhesive for adhering the barrier coating to the lid and base, the container comprising a plurality of unit dose detergent products, and wherein the barrier coating and optional adhesive comprise from 0.1 to 5% by weight of the container in the absence of a unit dose detergent product.

Surprisingly we have found that a commercially viable package for unit dose products can be provided and which has the desired biodegradability properties without detrimental water transport. This is achieved by using 0.1-5wt% of barrier material and optional adhesive of the total container (container lid, base, barrier material and optional adhesive). We have found that low levels of barrier material and adhesive allow the design of containers that are sufficiently water permeable to allow adaptation (depending on ambient conditions) within the box, but do not cause the capsules to stick if humidity and temperature make bonding and tackiness more likely.

Detailed Description

As used throughout this specification (including the claims), the following terms are defined:

the articles "a" and "an" when used in the claims should be understood to mean one or more of what is claimed or described.

In the case of an enzyme composition, "environmentally active" is intended to mean active at a temperature of no more than 40 ℃, preferably no more than 30 ℃, more preferably no more than 25 ℃, most preferably no more than 15 ℃ but always greater than 1 ℃, and "active" is also defined herein to mean effective in achieving stain removal.

"biodegradable" means that a substance is completely decomposed by microorganisms into carbon dioxide, water, biomass, and inorganic materials.

"child-resistant closure means any mechanism by which access to the water-soluble capsule can be reduced such that infants and children cannot readily remove the water-soluble capsule. This preferably includes any suitable arrangement that requires the individual to perform multiple cognitive and handling steps to open, thereby preventing the child from inadvertently touching the capsule.

"compostable" refers to a material that meets three requirements: (1) capable of being disposed of in a solid waste composting facility; (2) If so treated, it will eventually become a final compost; and (3) if compost is used in the soil, the material will eventually biodegrade in the soil.

"enzyme" includes enzyme variants (e.g., produced by recombinant techniques). Examples of such enzyme variants are disclosed, for example, in EP251446 (Genencor), WO91/00345 (Novo Nordisk), EP525610 (Solvay) and WO94/02618 (Gist-Brocades NV).

By "substantially free of a component" is meant that no amount of that component is intentionally incorporated into the composition.

"film" refers to a water-soluble material and may be a sheet-like material. The length and width of the material may far exceed the thickness of the material, however the film may be of any thickness.

"renewable" refers to materials that may be produced or derived from natural sources that are replenished periodically (e.g., annually or year-round) by the action of plants (e.g., crops, edible and non-edible grasses, forest products, algae or algae) or microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi or yeasts) of the terrestrial, aquatic or marine ecosystem.

"renewable resources" refers to natural resources that can be replenished over a 100 year period. The resource may be replenished naturally or by agricultural techniques. Renewable resources include plants, animals, fish, bacteria, fungi and forestry products. They may be naturally occurring, hybrid or genetically engineered organisms. Natural resources such as crude oil, coal and peat, which require more than 100 years to form, are not considered renewable resources.

"thermoforming" means a process in which a film is deformed by heat, and in particular it may involve the following: the first sheet of film is subjected to a molding process to form an enclosure in the film, such as forming a recess in the film. Preferably, this includes heating prior to deformation. The deforming step is preferably achieved by placing the membrane over the cavity and applying a vacuum or negative pressure inside the cavity (to retain the membrane in the cavity). The recess may then be filled. The process may then include overlaying a second sheet over the filled recesses and sealing it to the first sheet film around the edges of the recesses to form a flat sealed web, thereby forming capsules that may be unit dose products. The second film may be thermoformed during manufacture. Alternatively, the second film may not be thermoformed during manufacture. Preferably, the first water-soluble film is thermoformed during manufacture of the unit dose article and the second water-soluble film is not thermoformed during manufacture of the unit dose article.

"Unit dose" refers to an amount of a composition suitable for treating a laundry load, for example, from about 0.05g to about 100g, or from 10g to about 60g, or from about 20g to about 40g.

"Water-soluble" means that the article (film or package) dissolves in water at 20 ℃.

Unless otherwise indicated, all component or composition levels refer to the active portion of the component or composition and do not include impurities, such as residual solvents or byproducts, that may be present in commercial sources of such components or compositions.

Except in the examples and comparative experiments, or where otherwise explicitly indicated, all numbers are to be understood as modified by the word "about".

All percentages (expressed as "%") and ratios contained herein are by weight unless otherwise indicated. All conditions herein are at 20 ℃ and at atmospheric pressure, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Unless otherwise indicated, all polymer molecular weights are determined by weight average molecular weight.

The numerical range expressed in the form of "from x to y" is understood to include x and y. When multiple preferred ranges are described in the form of "from x to y" for a particular feature, it is to be understood that all ranges combining the different endpoints are also contemplated. Any particular upper value or amount may be associated with any particular lower value or amount when specifying any range of values or amounts.

Packaging material

The package comprises a biodegradable material. The biodegradable material may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The package may comprise a fully biodegradable material such that the package as a whole may be passed through microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, yeast and algae; environmental heat, moisture or other environmental factors completely decompose substances into carbon dioxide, water, biomass and inorganic materials. Preferably, 90-99.9% by weight of the container, more preferably 96-99.9% by weight consists of pulp or fibrous material such as, for example, card or cardboard. The remainder comprising barrier material and/or an information tag. Preferably, however, any label also comprises a biodegradable material as described herein, preferably paper or other fiber-based or pulp-based material.

The degree of biodegradability can be determined, if desired, according to ASTM test method 5338.92, for example.

Suitable biodegradable materials include paper, card or cardboard from cellulose or derivatives thereof; and may optionally comprise lignin or derivatives; biodegradable plastics, such as bioplastic, which is preferably an oxygen-containing-biodegradable plastic, wherein biodegradation is caused by both oxidative and cell-mediated phenomena (either simultaneously or sequentially) (as opposed to oxygen-degradation, which is degradation caused by oxidative cleavage of a "macromolecule" that causes the plastic to fragment rather than being non-biodegradable beyond a very long period of time). The material may also be compostable.

Biodegradable materials include biopolymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA), which may be derived, for example, from corn starch, tapioca, sugar gum, etc.; polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) include poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB or PH 3B), polyhydroxyvalerate (PHV), and Polyhydroxyhexanoate (PHH). PHA copolymers known as poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV); biodegradable polyesters such as Polycaprolactone (PCL), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA); polybutylene adipate-terephthalate (PBAT); cellulose-based materials such as ethylcellulose, cellulose acetate (true) cellophane (made of wood, cotton or hemp); starch or starch-based materials (from potato, rice, corn, etc.); bagasse, and any combination or mixture thereof. For example, PCL may be mixed with starch to improve the biodegradability of PCL.

The biodegradable material may comprise any biodegradable polyolefin.

Biodegradable petroleum-based plastic contents: polyglycolic acid (PGA), thermoplastic polymers, and aliphatic polyesters; polybutylene succinate (PBS), which is a thermoplastic polymer resin having properties comparable to propylene; polycaprolactone (PCL) because it has hydrolysable ester linkages that provide biodegradable properties. It has been shown that the firmicutes and the Proteus can degrade PCL. Penicillium strain 26-1 can degrade high density PCL; although not as fast as the heat-resistant aspergillus strain ST-01. Species of clostridium can degrade PCL under anaerobic conditions; polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), which is a biodegradable random copolymer.

Most preferred biodegradable materials include paper, card or cardboard from cellulose or derivatives.

Preferably, the biodegradable material is according to ¹⁴ C or radioactive carbon method (European: EN 16640 or CEN/TS16137, international: ISO 16620-2, U.S. ASTM 6866).

Preferably, the biodegradable material is made from renewable resources.

The packaging material may comprise an outer layer to provide additional protection or gloss (for biodegradable materials with a matte finish such as cardboard). Preferably the layer comprises a biodegradable polymer coating or varnish or film. Preferably, the outer layer comprises any of the biopolymers described above. Preferably the outer layer is present at least on some or all of the inner surface of the receptacle.

The term fibrous or pulp material includes paper or paperboard: specifically, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device. Preferably, the fibrous or pulp material is in the form of a sheet and is formed into a blank which is folded to form the closable container. The closable container may be formed from a single piece of blank or may contain multiple pieces.

Materials useful in the manufacture of containers may exhibit a content of from 100 to 500g/m ² Preferably 200-400g/m ² Is a gram weight of (c). In its embodiment variant, the flat paper material used to make the container may be covered on at least a portion of the first and/or second main development surfaces with a coating (e.g. a film) with the purpose of balancing the water transfer between the inside and the outside of the container with leakage protection. Advantageously, but not by way of limitation, the coating may comprise an extrusion coating on one or both sides (inner and/or outer) of the paper material defining the container, wherein the value of the coating material may be, for example, in the range of 10 to 50 micrometers. The coating plastic material may for example be selected from among the following materials: LDPE, HDPE, PP, PE.

Preferred barrier materials include polymeric materials selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyesters, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, cellulose-based materials, starch-based materials, sugarcane-based materials, and mixtures thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the biodegradable material comprises at least two layers, more preferably at least three layers.

The biodegradable material preferably comprises a bleaching layer and the bleaching layer comprises an outer layer of biodegradable material. The outer layer refers to the physical outermost layer of the bleaching layer. The second layer comprises a non-bleached layer which is also external to but opposite the bleached layer. Thus, the biodegradable material preferably comprises bleached and unbleached layers on opposite sides. Between the bleached and unbleached layers is preferably a filler layer composed of post-consumer recycled material, and it is also preferably paper-based.

Length of cellulose fiber

Preferably, the biodegradable material used in the present invention is paper-based. Paper-based means that it is derived from a natural source containing cellulose such as tree. The physical properties of paper-based or pulp-based products depend mainly on the properties of the cellulose fibers that are separated from the lignin during processing. This may be affected by the source of the cellulose, i.e. which type of tree is the original source, and what has been treated. The general trend is to characterize paper as recycled or unused, non-recycled, however, this is misleading, as the physical properties of cellulose fibers are critical to their performance in the context of the present invention. For example, hardwood fibers generally have good smoothness and formability and have short fibers. Typical hardwood sources include eucalyptus, birch, maple, beech, and oak. In contrast, softwood fibers have good strength and stiffness and include those derived from pine, spruce and fir.

Thus, where at least one layer of biodegradable material is paper-based, it is preferred that the weight average fiber length of the cellulose in the paper is at least 2mm, more preferably 3 to 5mm.

The cellulose fiber length was characterized according to the test called T271 om-18 by TAPPI (technical association of pulp and paper industry), which is a method designed for measuring the fiber length of pulp and paper by an automatic optical analyzer using polarized light. The test is an approved American National Standard (ANSI).

Where the package comprises co-operating base and cover parts, preferably the base comprises a paper base layer having a weight average fibre length of at least 2mm, more preferably 3 to 5mm. Surprisingly we have found that such excellent fiber length provides improved performance when the package is designed for storage of liquid detergent capsules, particularly in the event of water limitation in the event of leakage. This is particularly important when the package design needs to have a child resistant feature, as poor water containment may result in weak packages and thus easier access to the contents.

When the package comprises a separate cover portion, it is preferred that the cover comprises paper having a weight average cellulose fiber length of 1-5 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover comprises 80%, more preferably 95% by weight of cover paper having a weight average cellulose fiber length of 1-5 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the base comprises 80%, more preferably 95% by weight of base paper having a weight average cellulose fiber length of at least 2 mm.

Printing

The unit dose product is printed to provide useful information to the consumer. When formed, the printing is substantially internal to the capsule or product. Typically, printing is performed on a film roll prior to manufacturing the product such that the printed surface is the surface that faces the detergent composition when the final product is formed.

The printed area may cover the entire film or a portion thereof. The printed area may comprise a single color or may comprise multiple colors, even three colors. The printed areas may include white, black and red. The printed areas may comprise pigments, dyes, bluing agents or mixtures thereof. The printing may be present as a layer on the surface of the film or may at least partially penetrate into the film. In addition to the inner surface of the film, the printed areas may be present on the outside of the unit dose article, i.e. in contact with the liquid laundry detergent composition.

Preferably, the film comprises a phthalocyanine-based pigment. Such pigments are used for printing onto films. Preferred pigments include those commercially available from Sun ChemicalFUVDB354, and is a phthalocyanine-based pigment. Which is referred to as CAS147-14-8.

The unit dose article may comprise at least two films, or even at least three films, wherein the films are sealed together. The printed areas may be present on one film, or on multiple films, for example two films, or even three films.

The printed areas may be achieved using standard techniques, such as flexography or inkjet printing. Preferably, the printed area is achieved by flexographic printing (in which the film is printed) and then molded into a unit dose article.

The package contains a plurality of water-soluble capsules, each water-soluble capsule containing a detergent composition in a sealed compartment, preferably filled to at least 60% of the compartment volume.

Preferably, the container comprises 10 or more of said unit dose products and a closure.

With this arrangement, water-soluble capsules having a performance level of the matrix treatment liquid can be filled quickly and packaged in large quantities to reduce manufacturing costs, but can be packaged with biodegradable materials and still minimize the detrimental effects of leaking capsules. This is surprising in view of the similarity of the composition forming the capsule membrane and the polymer used for the biodegradable package.

The viscosity range chosen ensures that the fill time does not slow down the manufacturing time, making the capsule cost prohibitive. At the same time, the applicant has found that if the liquid thickens to a viscosity as specified in the first aspect of the invention, this minimises splashing of the capsule sealing area and also minimises the formation of fluctuations (in the formulation) that may also affect the seal integrity when filling the capsule at high speed.

Packaging arrangement

The package preferably has a minimum compressive strength of 300N. The thickness of the material (or caliper measurement) is selected to provide the necessary structural rigidity to the package.

The package may comprise any suitable rigid structure, such as a tub or carton or box, a tubular structure or a bottle. However, a preferred container will be formed from a blank formed into a container. Preferably, the container will include a base, opposing pairs of walls and a closable lid. Preferably, the cover is formed integrally with the base or from a separate component.

The walls of such structures may be foamed, molded. It may comprise a laminate structure (e.g. built up in layers). It may comprise a fibrous material such as fibre/pulp glued, compressed and/or enclosed in a rigid wall. Grooves, such as corrugated board, may be incorporated. For paperboard, the grammage is preferably at least 200gsm (grams per square meter), preferably at least 225gsm.

The structure can be folded between a raised configuration providing a functional receptacle and a flattened configuration that facilitates shipping and later ease of handling so that multiple packages can be flattened and stacked in preparation for shipping to a biodegradation site.

The biodegradable package may comprise a combination of fibrous and/or pulp material and a polymeric material. An example may be a material comprising one or more layers of fibers and/or pulp combined with one or more polymeric materials (all of which are biodegradable). There may be one or more layers of fibres and/or pulp sandwiched between layers of polymeric material. The material may be virgin or recycled.

Dimensionally, it is preferred that the container comprises a top surface which is 9 to 15cm wide when in the closed configuration. The width is the average over the entire length of the top surface. This width is preferred because biodegradable packages tend to bend more easily than more rigid plastic packaging containers, and we have found that this dimension is relevant to optimal consumer behavior when the container is opened to access the contents by using appropriate forces and without thereby damaging the biodegradable container or the contents therein. This is especially true when the child-resistant closure requires simultaneous pressing of the unlocking areas on the opposing side walls. Such opposing pressure may damage the contents of the container by pressurizing the capsule that is already under water transport stress.

Where the package comprises separate covers and bases, it is preferred that the covers comprise pairs of top sheets and opposed walls that depend so that they resemble five sides of a cube. Similarly, it is preferred that the base comprises a pair of opposed walls upstanding from the base and a base such that it also resembles five sides of a cube.

In this way, the lid and base cooperate to form a closed container, wherein the pair of opposing walls of each of the lid and base provide dual protection to the exterior when the lid and base are telescopically interoperable. Preferably, the lid provides an outermost surface when the base and lid are telescopically engaged to close the package.

Preferably, the cover comprises a bleached layer on the outermost layer and an unbleached layer on the innermost layer. In such a configuration, the bleach layer presents the outermost surface of the package for five sides of the lid formation. Preferably, the outermost layer comprises printed portions.

Preferably, the bleaching layer further comprises a barrier material as described below. More preferably, the innermost surface comprises an unbleached layer, and most preferably is not treated with a barrier material.

Preferably the base comprises a bleached layer on the innermost layer and an unbleached layer on the outermost layer. In this configuration, the bleach layer presents the innermost surface of the package for the five sides of the base construction. Such an innermost layer is in physical contact with at least some of the laundry unit dose product.

Preferably, the bleaching layer further comprises a barrier material as described below. More preferably the innermost surface of the base comprises an unbleached layer and most preferably is also treated with a barrier material.

Barrier material

The paper-based package includes a barrier material for improved performance.

The barrier material is preferably used to provide humidity control and is typically applied on one or both sides of the panel surface depending on the end use.

Dispersing barrier

Without the traditional coating, the dispersion is a new barrier option. The surface is finished by water-based dispersion techniques. This makes the board resistant to liquids and grease during its use, while it breaks down during recycling, such as paper, thereby providing a high yield of recycled fibers when recycling the product.

Green PE coating

PE Green is a fully renewable choice of conventional PE (polyethylene) and provides excellent humidity protection. PE Green is made from renewable, plant-based raw materials, thus a 100% renewable and recyclable barrier package is available. At the time of conversion, it proceeds in the same manner as PE, and is thus easily introduced into production by the user.

PE coating

PE, or polyethylene, is the most commonly used barrier coating. Polyolefin barriers, such as LDPE and HDPE polymers, provide excellent moisture protection.

Biodegradable coatings

Biodegradable coatings are specialty polymers that provide moisture, oxygen and grease barrier and sealability. Our biodegradable coating is compostable. However, the biopolymer coated paperboard can also be readily recycled, which recycling is often the preferred end-of-use option.

The biopolymers may be produced from natural crops or fossil raw materials. But the key is the decomposition of the biopolymer coated board into humus and CO at the end ₂ . If our biopolymer coated paperboard is selected, a recyclable product can be obtained, or it can be collected in other compostable waste that enters industrial compost.

PET coating

PET provides a barrier and performs other functions. The black or white PET coating, which provides heat resistance, acts as an excellent grease barrier and has solid WVTR (water vapor transmission rate) characteristics.

PP coating

The PP or polypropylene coating provides heat resistance to the microwave oven and is also suitable for deep freezing. The good sealing performance ensures the performance in use.

Preferably, however, the barrier material comprises less than 5 wt%, more preferably less than 1 wt%, and preferably substantially zero PE, PP or PET.

In a preferred embodiment, the barrier comprises a water-based dispersion.

The water-based barrier coating seals the substrate surface and protects the package from external and internal influences. The package remains attractive and can perform its function without limitation. Depending on the product, our barrier coating provides adequate protection of the fat, water, steam, dairy products, alcohol, oil or alkali over the life of the package. Because of their versatility, they are used in a wide variety of applications. Barrier coatings can be used in packaging converters and in the printer or paper industry.

Preferably, the base of the package comprises a water-based dispersion barrier layer.

Preferably, the barrier material on the base is applied to the inner surface.

Preferably, the cover member comprises less than 1% by weight of barrier material, more preferably a water-based dispersion barrier.

More preferably, the dispersion barrier member comprises a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The TPE is preferably dispersed in the barrier component.

An advantage of the barrier material comprising TPE is that it is dispersed in the barrier component such that a layer is not required. The dispersion is applied once.

The optional barrier component may comprise a multi-layer approach. These barrier layers are available from WeilburgerThose commercially available under brands. Examples are described in WO 2018/069413. Preferably, these will be applied by digital printing, ink fountain damping units (ink duct damping unit), flexographic printing, on-line-off line coating units and web offset and gravure printing.

Such barrier materials may be applied primarily as a wet layer. The dispersion is preferably an aqueous dispersion, in particular a PTFE dispersion, a Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) polymer dispersion, and/or a copolymer of fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP), hexafluoropropylene.

When the layer is applied in wet form, a surface film is formed which is then curable. The first layer may have a resin to improve adhesion to the base. Exemplary suitable resins are, but are not limited to, polyamideimide, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethersulfone (PES), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), silicone resins, and/or polysulfone. The proportion of such resins in the wet composition (in particular the dispersion) applied as a layer is preferably from about 3 to 8% by weight of the composition.

The second polymer is applied to the first layer in liquid form. The dispersion may contain other ingredients mentioned herein. The dispersion is preferably an aqueous dispersion, in particular a PTFE dispersion, a Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) polymer dispersion and/or a fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP, a copolymer of hexafluoropropylene and tetrafluoroethylene) dispersion. The proportion of the second polymer in the wet composition (in particular the dispersion) applied as a layer is preferably from about 40 to 60% by weight. The first layer may have been dried, partially dried or not dried prior to application of the second layer. In an advantageous variant, the second layer is applied to the first layer as long as the first layer is still wet, in particular as long as the first layer is still wet.

Preferably, both the cover and the base comprise a multi-layer barrier material, such as those described above.

Preferably, the barrier material is applied to the exterior of the lid and/or base. More preferably, the barrier material is applied to at least 50%, more preferably 70%, particularly preferably 90%, most preferably 95% of the outer surface of the cover.

More preferably, the barrier material is applied to at least 50%, more preferably 70%, particularly preferably 90%, most preferably 95% of the outer surface of the base.

More preferably, the base comprises a barrier material on the outer surface and the inner surface.

Adhesive agent

Preferably, the package is fold-formed and its shape is maintained by means of an adhesive. Adhesives are common in the art, but preferably we mean hot melt adhesives, reactive hot melt adhesives, thermosetting adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, contact adhesive adhesives. Preferably, the adhesive is a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive.

Preferably, the hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive is adapted to tackify and adhere to a range of materials comprising the package.

Total content of

The barrier material and optional adhesive comprise 0.1-5% by weight of the total package plus adhesive and barrier material. More preferably, the barrier material and adhesive comprise 1-3 wt% of the total package plus adhesive and barrier material, and most preferably 1.5-2.5 wt%.

These and further mentioned weight proportions are calculated in the absence of any unit dose detergent product and are thus relevant for the individual containers (or packages) as well as the barrier material and optional binder.

Preferably, the barrier material and optional adhesive comprise 0.1-5% by weight of the lid plus adhesive and barrier material. More preferably, the barrier material and adhesive comprise 1-3% by weight of the lid plus adhesive and barrier material, and most preferably 0.9-1.4% by weight.

Preferably, the barrier material and optional binder comprise 0.1-5% by weight of the base plus binder and barrier material. More preferably, the barrier material and the adhesive comprise 1-3 wt.% of the base plus the adhesive and the barrier material, most preferably 1.5-2.6 wt.%.

Preferably, the barrier material comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the total package plus barrier material and adhesive. More preferably, the barrier material comprises 1-3% by weight of the total package plus barrier material and adhesive, and most preferably 1.5-2.5% by weight.

Preferably, the barrier material comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the cover plus the barrier material and adhesive. More preferably, the barrier material comprises 1-3 wt% of the cover plus barrier material and adhesive, most preferably 1.4-2.2 wt%.

Preferably, the barrier material comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the base plus barrier material and binder. More preferably, the barrier material comprises 0.3 to 3 weight percent of the base plus barrier material and binder, and most preferably 0.5 to 1.5 weight percent.

Preferably, the adhesive comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the total package plus adhesive and barrier material. More preferably, the adhesive comprises 1-3 wt%, most preferably 1.5-2.5 wt% of the total package plus adhesive and barrier material.

Preferably, the adhesive comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the cover plus adhesive and barrier material. More preferably, the adhesive comprises 1-3 wt% of the cover plus adhesive and barrier material, most preferably 1.2-2.1 wt%.

Preferably, the binder comprises 0.1-5% by weight of the base plus binder and barrier material. More preferably, the binder comprises 1-3 wt% of the base plus binder and barrier material, most preferably 1.5-2.6 wt%.

Preferably, the cap base comprises 0 to 5 wt% of a polyolefin selected from PP, PE and PET. More preferably, the base cap comprises from 0 to 1%, most preferably 0 PP, PE and PET.

A lid having a bleached outer surface and a base having a bleached inner surface means that when the lid and the base are cooperatively engaged, the two unbleached surfaces are in contact with each other. This facilitates sliding between the two, especially in humid environments.

COBB value

COBB test (T441 om-20, TAPPI) measures the water absorption of sizing and corrugated fiberboard. "Cobb value" is 1m under 1cm of water ² Mass of water absorbed by the substrate over a specified period of time.

Preferably, the Cobb60 of the cap without added barrier material is 5 to 80g/m for bleached surface ² More preferably 6 to 50g/m ² And 5 to 100g/m for unbleached surfaces ² More preferably 10 to 30g/m ² 。

Preferably, the Cobb60 of the cover with added barrier material is 0.1 to 1.5g/m for bleached surface ² More preferably 0.3 to 1.0g/m ² 。

Preferably, the Cobb1800 of the cap without added barrier material is 80 to 200g/m for bleached surface ² More preferably 90-150g/m ² And (2) andfor unbleached surfaces of 8 to 200g/m ² More preferably 100-130g/m ² 。

Preferably, the cover with added barrier material Cobb1800 is 80-200g/m for bleached surface ² More preferably 90-150g/m ² 。

Preferably, the Cobb60 of the base without added barrier material is 0.5 to 15g/m for bleached surfaces ² More preferably 1-10g/m ² And 5-80g/m for unbleached surfaces ² More preferably 10-30g/m ² 。

Preferably, the Cobb60 of the base of the added barrier material is 0.1-1.5g/m for bleached surfaces ² More preferably 0.3-1.0g/m ² 。

Preferably, the Cobb1800 of the base without added barrier material is 80 to 200g/m for bleached surfaces ² More preferably 90-150g/m ² And for unbleached surfaces of 8-200g/m ² More preferably 80-120g/m ² 。

Preferably, the base of the added barrier material is Cobb1800, 0.5-20g/m for bleached surfaces ² More preferably 2-15g/m ² 。

Surprisingly we have found that such excellent fiber length provides improved performance when the package is designed for storing liquid detergent capsules, particularly in the event of water limitation in the event of leakage. This is particularly important when the package design needs to have a child resistant feature, as poor water containment may result in weak packages and thus easier access to the contents.

Preferably, the width of the cardboard used for the cover and base is 200 to 800 microns.

Preferably, the container comprises an absorbent pad. Preferably, such absorbent pads are placed in the base at the bottom of the package prior to placing the unit dose article within the package.

Child resistant closure

The present invention includes a child-resistant closure mechanism comprising a first locking member on a receptacle and a second locking member present on the closure whereby the members interlock.

The child-resistant closure is obtained by a specific structure to secure the closure in place (closure receptacle) until a specific operation is performed to disengage the closure.

The closure may include a top and a lid with corresponding locking members that must be aligned in a particular orientation before they will be released from the locking members on the receptacle or that require a sequence of steps or actions to be performed to actuate their release, as described below.

The receptacle and the closure may each comprise at least one, preferably at least two such locking members, and the package is closed by locking the locking members in pairs, each pair comprising one locking member on the closure interengaged with one locking member on the receptacle. Preferably, each pair of locking members is operable independently of any at least one other pair of locking members such that unlocking of one pair of locking members does not automatically unlock the other pair of locking members. Preferably, at least one pair is spaced apart from the other pair at a location on the package, so that for example, they may be located at diagonally opposite locations, for example at or adjacent diagonally opposite edges/corners of a generally square/rectangular closure and/or at diametrically opposite locations on the edges of a circular closure.

Preferably, the or each locking member comprises a resilient portion such that the resilient portion springs into and/or out of locking engagement with the respective locking member.

The locking member may be selected from any protrusion and corresponding recess, catch, clip, latch, flap, strap, hook and loop fastener, ratchet arrangement or tab (on a thread), slide, button, tab, key, magnet, or other locking component. The locking members may be biased, e.g. spring loaded, in a locking position (engaged with the respective locking member) such that pressure has to be used to release them from each other.

The receptacle and closure may be attached to each other by a hinge, or they may slide relative to each other and may even be integral (e.g., have a living hinge) such that the closure is integral with the receptacle. The invention is particularly preferred for such devices because softening the receptacle can cause deformation and apply stress on the closure.

Certain operations may include dual and/or coordinated actions on the closure. Preferably, the child resistant closure includes a locking member that requires a dual and/or coordinated action to open the closure. Thus, for example, the desired action may be a press-turn or press-pull mechanism known to those skilled in the art. For example, the closure may be opened only when the closure or a portion thereof is simultaneously squeezed (radially) and rotated, or pushed (axially of the package) and rotated. The child-resistant closure may include grasping or squeezing both sides of the closure and simultaneously rotating to remove the closure. The closure may be retained on the receptacle by respective carrying internally threaded ratchet teeth or wedge lugs as locking members and prevented from unscrewing from the neck opening unless the closure and/or neck are deflected radially whereby the locking members move apart in a radial direction and allow the closure to unscrew.

The locking member may require a double and/or coordinated action to unlock. For example, the package is pressed and slid, or pressed and pulled, for example. Removable locking keys may be required to lock and/or unlock the interlocking members.

The package may comprise a sliding mechanism whereby the closure or a portion thereof slides relative to the receptacle, or the receptacle slides within the closure (e.g. as a tray packaging arrangement whereby the capsules are stacked on the tray portion), and at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the inner sliding portion relative to the outside of the package is provided. The locking mechanism may be biased such that pressure must be applied to release the tray. In some embodiments, the inner sleeve includes a pull tab for removing the inner sleeve from inside the outer sleeve.

The locking member may be spatially arranged to prevent access by children. For example, at least 2 pairs may be separated from each other by a distance corresponding to the average span between the thumb and index finger of an adult hand. Only when all two pairs are released simultaneously, it is possible to open the lid of the packaging container.

For a box-type structure, the locking members are preferably located at diagonally opposite corners of the box.

The child-resistant closure may generate audible feedback, such as a "click," to signal to the user that the closure is in place.

Tear resistant portion

Preferably, the package comprises a dimensionally stable tear resistant planar material (e.g. a laminate), such as a dimensionally stable tear resistant paperboard laminate for use in the manufacture of a tear resistant packaging structure. The dimensionally stable tear resistant paperboard laminate may include a tear-resistant biodegradable polymeric core layer having first and second opposite sides. The dimensionally stable tear resistant paperboard laminate further includes a first paperboard layer bonded to the first side of the tear-resistant polymeric core layer with a first bonding medium. The dimensionally stable tear resistant paperboard laminate further includes a second paperboard layer bonded to the second side of the tear-resistant polymeric core layer with a second bonding medium. The tear resistant polymeric core layer has a thickness of at least 1 mil and a tear resistance of at least 350 grams force in the machine direction and at least 400 grams force in the cross machine direction as measured by the Elmendorf tear propagation test. Furthermore, the first and second paperboard layers are substantially identical in structure.

Preferably, the tear resistant polymer core layer has a thickness of about 3 mils and a tear resistance of about 1700 grams force in the machine direction and about 400 grams force in the cross machine direction as measured by the Elmendorf tear propagation test.

Unit dose product

Preferred unit dose products, their constituent parts and methods of manufacture are described in WO 2015/153157. In detail, the water-soluble unit dose article comprises at least two water-soluble films and at least one interior compartment, wherein the compartment is surrounded by the films and has an interior space, and wherein the compartment comprises a cleaning composition within the interior space.

The unit dose article has a height, width and length. The maximum of any of these dimensions refers to the maximum distance between two points on opposite sides of the unit dose article. In other words, the unit dose article may not have straight edges and thus may have variable lengths, widths, and heights, depending on where the measurements are taken. Therefore, the maximum should be measured at any two points furthest from each other.

The maximum length is between 2cm and 8cm, or even between 3cm and 7cm, or even between 3.5cm and 7 cm.

The maximum width is between 2cm and 8cm, or even between 3cm and 7 cm.

The maximum height is between 1cm and 5cm or even between 2cm and 4.5 cm.

The length to height ratio may be 3:1 to 1:1; or width to height ratio of 3:1 to 1:1, or even 2.5:1 to 1:1; or a ratio of length to height of 3:1 to 1:1 and a ratio of width to height of 3:1 to 1:1, or even 2.5:1 to 1:1, or a combination thereof.

The volume of liquid in the unit dose article may be between 10 and 35ml, or even between 10 and 30ml, or even between 10 and 25 ml.

The unit dose article may have a weight of less than 35g, or even between 10g and 33g, or even between 10g and 30 g. The unit dose article may have a weight of from 10g to 31g, or even from 15g to 30 g.

The unit dose article may comprise a gas and wherein the ratio of the volume of the gas to the volume of the liquid laundry detergent composition is between 1:4 and 1:20, or even between 1:5 and 1:15, or even between 1:5 and 1:9. Alternatively, the ratio of the volume of the gas to the volume of the liquid laundry detergent composition is between 1:25 and 1:10, or even between 1:20 and 15:1. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it has been found that by carefully adjusting the volume of gas and the volume of liquid, dissolution of the film in the wash liquid and dispersion of the liquid laundry detergent composition can be maximized.

The water-soluble unit dose article comprises a plurality of compartments. The unit dose article may comprise two, or three, or four or five compartments. The compartment contains a cleaning composition. Each compartment may contain the same or different compositions. The composition may be a solid, liquid, gel, fluid, dispersion or mixtures thereof.

The water-soluble film is shaped such that it defines the shape of the compartment such that the compartment is completely surrounded by the film. The compartment may be formed from a single membrane or multiple membranes. For example, the compartment may be formed from two films sealed together. The water-soluble film is sealed so that the composition does not leak from the compartment during storage. However, when the water-soluble pouch is added to water, the water-soluble film dissolves and releases the contents of the internal compartment into the wash liquor.

The water-soluble unit dose article may be of any form, shape and material suitable for retaining the composition, i.e., not allowing the composition and any additional components to be released from the unit dose article until the unit dose article is contacted with water. The exact execution will depend, for example, on the type and amount of composition in the unit dose article. The unit dose article may have a substantially square, rectangular, oval, elliptical, super elliptical, or circular shape. The shape may or may not include any excess material present as a flange or skirt at the point where two or more films are sealed together. Basically we mean here that the shape has an overall impression of, for example, a square. It may have rounded corners and/or non-straight sides, but in general it gives the impression of, for example, a square.

A multi-compartment unit dose article form may be desirable for the following reasons:

separating the chemically incompatible components; or wherein it is desirable that a portion of the ingredients are released into the wash earlier or later.

The plurality of compartments may be arranged in any suitable orientation. For example, the unit dose article may comprise a bottom compartment and at least a first top compartment, wherein the top compartment is superimposed on the bottom compartment. The unit dose article may comprise a bottom compartment and at least first and second top compartments, wherein the top compartments are arranged side by side and superimposed on the bottom compartment; preferably, wherein the article comprises a bottom compartment and at least a first, a second and a third top compartment, wherein the top compartments are arranged side by side and superimposed on the bottom compartment. The unit dose article may comprise a bottom compartment and at least first and second top compartments, wherein the top compartments are arranged side by side and superimposed on the bottom compartment; preferably, wherein the article comprises a bottom compartment and at least a first, a second and a third top compartment, wherein the top compartments are arranged side by side and superimposed on the bottom compartment, and wherein the maximum length is between 2cm and 5cm, or even between 2cm and 4cm, or even between 2cm and 3cm, the maximum width is between 2cm and 5cm and the maximum height is between 2cm and 5 cm.

The ratio of the combined top compartment surface area to volume ratio to the bottom compartment surface area to volume ratio may be between 1:1.25 and 1:2.25, or even between 1:1.5 and 1:2. In this case, the surface area is the surface area in contact with the external environment only, not the surface area in contact with the adjacent compartment. Alternatively, the ratio of the combined top compartment surface area to volume ratio to the bottom compartment surface area to volume ratio may be between 1:1 and 3:1 or even between 1.5:1 and 2:1. In this case, the surface area is the surface area in contact with the external environment only, not the surface area in contact with the adjacent compartment. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it was found that a specific ratio of surface area to volume of the top compartment to the bottom compartment helps reduce the instances where the unit dose article is trapped.

Alternatively, the compartments may all be positioned in a side-by-side arrangement. In such an arrangement, the compartments may be connected to each other and share a dividing wall, or may be substantially separated and simply held together by connectors or bridges. Alternatively, the compartments may be arranged in a "tire and rim" orientation, i.e., the first compartment is positioned immediately adjacent to the second compartment, but the first compartment at least partially surrounds the second compartment, but does not completely surround the second compartment.

The at least one compartment has a length, a width and a height, and wherein the maximum length of the compartment is between 2cm and 8cm and the maximum width of the compartment is between 2cm and 8 cm.

The maximum of any of these dimensions refers to the maximum distance between two points on opposite sides of the compartment. In other words, the compartments may not have straight sides and thus may have variable lengths, widths and heights depending on where the measurements are taken. Therefore, the maximum should be measured at any two points furthest from each other.

The maximum length of the compartment may be between 2cm and 7cm, or even 2.5cm, and the maximum width of the compartment may be between 2cm and 7cm, or even between 2.5cm and 5 cm.

The maximum height of the compartment may be between 0.5cm and 5cm, or even between 1cm and 4 cm.

The compartments may have the same height, width and length as the unit dose articles. Alternatively, the compartments may have the same length and width as the unit dose article, but a different height. Alternatively, the compartments may have the same height and length as the unit dose article, but a different length.

At least one film comprises a printed area covering between 10% and 80%, or even 10% and 75%, or even 10% and 60%, or even between 10% and 40% of the film surface.

Alternatively, at least one film comprises a printed area covering 10% to 80%, or even 10% to 75%, or even 10% to 60%, or even 10% to 40% of a portion of the surface of the film, wherein said portion is in contact with the interior space of the compartment. The film has first and second sides. One side in contact with the external environment and one side in contact with the interior space of the compartment. Thus, the printing is present on the surface of the film, wherein at least one side of the film is in contact with the interior compartment, and the surface will not comprise any excess film, e.g. a flange/skirt forming film. The printed areas may be on either side of the film. Optionally, the at least one film comprises a printed area comprising a printed area covering 10% to 80%, or even 10% to 75%, or even 10% to 60%, or even 10% to 40% of a portion of the surface of the film and covering 10% to 80% or even 10% to 75%, or even 10% to 60%, or even 10% to 40%, wherein the portion is in contact with the interior space of the compartment.

The film will include first and second surfaces. "surface" herein refers to one or both of the first or second surfaces. Alternatively, the printed area may be at least partially contained within the film itself, but visible from one or both surfaces.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it has surprisingly been found that carefully adjusting the size of the unit dose article and the size of the printed area on the unit dose article solves the problem of providing a printed area that is noticeable and aesthetically pleasing to the consumer. The size is not too small to be noticed by the consumer nor too large to be aesthetically pleasing. It has surprisingly been found that the size of the unit dose article affects the visual perception. If the pouch is too large, the printed area will be considered too small (even if identifiable) or too large (if it covers a large area of the unit dose article). Conversely, if the pouch is too small, the printed area is considered too small. If the printed area on the pouch becomes larger, it is considered illegible due to the fact that the printing needs to "wrap" the unit dose article making it difficult to view. Furthermore, if the printed area is too large as a whole, the edges of the printed area may distort due to the sealing area at the edges or due to the three-dimensional shape of the unit dose article.

If the size of the compartments is different from the size of the unit dose article and comprises a printed area, it has surprisingly been found that careful adjustment of the size of the unit dose article and the size of the printed area on the unit dose article solves the problem of providing a printed area that is obvious and aesthetically pleasing to the consumer for the same reasons as described above.

During manufacture, the film of the unit dose article may be stretched, for example during formation of the shape of the unit dose article. The size of the printed area may be the size of an unstretched film or a stretched film.

The geometric center of the printed area may be aligned with the geometric center of the film or film portion. It has surprisingly been found that if the geometric centers are aligned, the edges of the printed area are less likely to distort due to the three-dimensional shape of the pouch or compartment or due to the sealed area. This is also considered more aesthetically pleasing by the consumer.

Preferably, once the unit dose article is added to 950ml deionized water at 20-21 degrees celsius in a 1L beaker, the unit dose article breaks between 10 seconds and 5 minutes with the water being stirred with a 5cm magnetic stirrer bar at 350 rpm. By rupture we mean here that the film visibly ruptures or breaks. Shortly after the film breaks or splits, the internal liquid detergent composition can be seen to leave the unit dose article into the surrounding water.

Water-soluble film

The film of the unit dose article is soluble or dispersible in water and preferably has a water solubility of at least 50%, preferably at least 75% or even at least 95%, as measured by the method described herein after use of a glass filter having a maximum pore size of 20 microns:

To a pre-weighed 400ml beaker was added 50 grams + -0.1 grams of film material and 245ml + -1 ml of distilled water. It was vigorously stirred on a magnetic stirrer set at 600rpm for 30 minutes. The mixture was then filtered through a folded qualitative sintered glass filter having pore sizes as defined above (max 20 microns). Moisture was dried from the collected filtrate by any conventional method and the weight of the remaining material (which is the dissolved or dispersed fraction) was determined. The percent solubility or dispersibility can then be calculated.

The preferred membrane material is preferably a polymeric material. The film material may be obtained, for example, by casting, blowing, extrusion or blow extrusion of a polymeric material, as known in the art.

Preferred polymers, copolymers or derivatives thereof suitable for use as the pouch material are selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxide, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose ether, cellulose ester, cellulose amide, polyvinyl acetate, polycarboxylic acid and salts, polyamino acids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamides, copolymers of maleic acid/acrylic acid, polysaccharides including starch and gelatin, natural gums such as xanthan gum and carrageenan. More preferred polymers are selected from the group consisting of polyacrylates and water-soluble acrylate copolymers, methyl cellulose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, dextrins, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, maltodextrin, polymethacrylates, and most preferably from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and combinations thereof. Preferably, the pouch material has a polymer (e.g., PVA polymer) content of at least 60%. The polymer may have any weight average molecular weight, preferably about 1000 to 1000000, more preferably about 10000 to 300000, still more preferably about 20000 to 150000.

Mixtures of polymers may also be used as membrane materials. Depending on its application and the desired requirements, this may be advantageous to control the mechanical and/or dissolution properties of the compartment or pouch. Suitable mixtures include, for example, mixtures in which one polymer has higher water solubility than the other polymer and/or one polymer has higher mechanical strength than the other polymer. Mixtures of polymers having different weight average molecular weights are also suitable, for example mixtures of PVA or copolymers thereof having a weight average molecular weight of from about 10000 to 40000, preferably about 20000, with PVA or copolymers thereof having a weight average molecular weight of from about 100000 to 300000, preferably about 150000. Also suitable herein are polymer blend compositions, for example comprising hydrolytically degradable and water soluble polymer blends, such as polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, obtained by mixing the polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, typically comprising about 1-35% by weight of polylactide and about 65-99% by weight of polyvinyl alcohol. Preferably used herein are polymers that are about 60% to about 98% hydrolyzed, preferably about 80% to about 90% hydrolyzed, to improve the dissolution characteristics of the material.

The preferred membrane material is a polymeric material. As known in the art, the film material may be obtained, for example, by casting, blow molding, extrusion or blow-molded extrusion of a polymeric material. Preferred polymers, copolymers or derivatives thereof suitable for use as the pouch material are selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxide, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose ether, cellulose ester, cellulose amide, polyvinyl acetate, polycarboxylic acid and salts, polyamino acids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamides, maleic/acrylic copolymers, polysaccharides (including starch and gelatin), natural gums such as xanthan gum and carrageenan. More preferred polymers are selected from the group consisting of polyacrylates and water-soluble acrylate copolymers, methyl cellulose, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, dextrins, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, maltodextrin, polymethacrylates, and most preferably from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and combinations thereof. Preferably, the pouch material has a polymer content of at least 60%, for example PVA polymer. The polymer may have any weight average molecular weight, preferably about 1000 to 1000000, more preferably about 10000 to 300000, still more preferably about 20000 to 150000. Mixtures of polymers may also be used as pouch materials. This may be advantageous to control the mechanical and/or dissolution properties of the compartment or pouch, depending on its application and the desired requirements. Suitable mixtures include, for example, mixtures in which one polymer has higher water solubility than the other polymer and/or one polymer has higher mechanical strength than the other polymer. Mixtures of polymers having different weight average molecular weights are also suitable, for example mixtures of PVA or copolymers thereof having a weight average molecular weight of from about 10000 to 40000, preferably about 20000, and PVA or copolymers thereof having a weight average molecular weight of from about 100000 to 300000, preferably about 150000. Also suitable herein are polymer blend compositions, for example comprising hydrolytically degradable and water soluble polymer blends, such as polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, obtained by mixing polylactide and polyvinyl alcohol, typically comprising about 1-35 wt.% polylactide and about 65-99 wt.% polyvinyl alcohol. Preferably, polymers from about 60% to about 98% hydrolyzed, preferably from about 80% to about 90% hydrolyzed, are used herein to improve the dissolution characteristics of the material. The preferred film exhibits good solubility in cold water, which means unheated water directly from the faucet. Preferably, such films exhibit good solubility at temperatures below 25 degrees celsius, more preferably below 21 degrees celsius, more preferably below 15 degrees celsius. Good solubility means that the membrane exhibits a water solubility of at least 50%, preferably at least 75% or even at least 95%, as measured by the method described herein after using the glass filter described above having a maximum pore size of 20 microns.

Preferred membranes are those supplied by Monosol under the trade names M8630, M8900, M8779, M8310.

Of course, different film materials and/or films of different thickness may be used to make the compartments of the present invention. The benefit of selecting different membranes is that the resulting compartments may exhibit different solubility or release characteristics.

The film materials herein may also comprise one or more additive components. For example, it may be beneficial to add plasticizers such as glycerin, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, and mixtures thereof. Other additives may include water and functional detergent additives (including water) to be delivered to the wash water, such as organic polymeric dispersants and the like.

The film may comprise printed areas. The printed area may cover the entire film or a portion thereof. The printed area may comprise a single color or may comprise multiple colors, even three colors. The printed areas may comprise pigments, dyes, bluing agents or mixtures thereof. The printing may be present as a layer on the surface of the film or may at least partially penetrate into the film. The unit dose article may comprise at least two films, or even at least three films, wherein the films are sealed together. The printed areas may be present on one film, or more than one film, for example two films, or even three films.

The printed areas may be achieved using standard techniques, such as flexography or inkjet printing. Preferably, the printed area is achieved by flexography (in which the film is printed) and then molded into the shape of the open cells. The compartment is then filled with a detergent composition and a second film is placed over the compartment and sealed to the first film. The printed areas may be on either side of the film.

The printed areas may be purely aesthetic or may provide useful information to the consumer.

The printed areas may be opaque, translucent or transparent.

Liquid laundry detergent compositions

The unit dose article or capsule comprises a liquid laundry detergent composition. The liquid composition may be opaque, translucent or transparent. Each compartment may contain the same or different compositions. The unit dose article comprises a liquid composition, however, it may also comprise different compositions in different compartments. The composition may be any suitable composition. The composition may be in the form of a solid, liquid, dispersion, gel, paste, fluid or mixtures thereof. The composition may be in different forms in different compartments. Non-limiting examples of compositions include cleaning compositions, fabric care compositions, automatic dishwashing compositions, and hard surface cleaners. More particularly, the composition may be a laundry, fabric care or dishwashing composition, including a pretreatment or soaking composition and other rinse additive compositions. The laundry detergent composition may be used during main wash or may be used as a pretreatment or soaking composition.

Laundry detergent compositions include fabric detergents, fabric softeners, 2 in 1 detergents and softening, pretreatment compositions, and the like. Laundry detergent compositions may comprise surfactants, builders, chelating agents, dye transfer inhibiting agents, dispersants, enzymes, and enzyme stabilizers, catalytic materials, bleach activators, polymeric dispersing agents, clay soil removal/anti-redeposition agents, brighteners, suds suppressors, dyes, additional perfume and perfume delivery systems, structure elasticizing agents, fabric softeners, carriers, hydrotropes, processing aids and/or pigments and mixtures thereof. The composition may be a laundry detergent composition comprising an ingredient selected from the group consisting of: hueing dyes, surfactants, polymers, perfumes, encapsulated perfume materials, structuring agents, and mixtures thereof.

The liquid laundry detergent composition may comprise ingredients selected from the group consisting of: bleaching agents, bleach catalysts, dyes, shading dyes, cleaning polymers (including alkoxylated polyamines and polyethylenimines), soil release polymers, surfactants, solvents, dye transfer inhibitors, chelating agents, enzymes, perfumes, encapsulated perfumes, polycarboxylates, structuring agents and mixtures thereof.

The surfactant may be selected from anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the fabric care composition comprises an anion, a non-ion or a mixture thereof.

The anionic surfactant may be selected from linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkyl ethoxylate sulfates, and combinations thereof.

Anionic surfactants suitable for use in the present invention may comprise any of the conventional anionic surfactant types commonly used in liquid detergent products. These include alkylbenzenesulfonic acids and salts thereof, and alkoxylated or non-alkoxylated alkyl sulfate materials.

Nonionic surfactants suitable for use in the present invention include alcohol alkoxylate nonionic surfactants. Alcohol alkoxylates are substances corresponding to the general formula: r is R ¹ (C _m H _2m O) _n OH, wherein R is ¹ Is C ₈ -C ₁₆ Alkyl, m is 2 to 4, and n is about 2 to 12. In one aspect, R ¹ Is an alkyl group, which may be a primary or secondary alkyl group, containing from about 9 to 15 carbon atoms, or from about 10 to 14 carbon atoms. In one aspect, the alkoxylated fatty alcohol will also be an ethoxylated material containing an average of about 2 to 12 ethylene oxide moieties per molecule or about 3 to 10 ethylene oxide moieties per molecule.

Hueing dyes for use in the laundry detergent compositions of the present invention may comprise polymeric or non-polymeric dyes, pigments or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the hueing dye comprises a polymeric dye comprising a chromophore component and a polymeric component. The chromophore component is characterized by absorption of light in a wavelength range of blue, red, blue-violet, or a combination thereof upon exposure to light. In one aspect, the chromophore component exhibits a maximum absorption spectrum in water and/or methanol of about 520 nanometers to about 640 nanometers, and in another aspect, exhibits a maximum absorption spectrum in water and/or methanol of about 560 nanometers to about 610 nanometers.

The dye chromophore is preferably selected from the group consisting of benzodifuran, methine, triphenylmethane, naphthalimide, pyrazole, naphthoquinone, anthraquinone, azo, oxazine, azine, xanthene, tribenzodiazine and phthalocyanine dye chromophores, although any suitable chromophore may be used. Mono-and bis-azo dye chromophores are preferred.

The hueing dye may comprise a dye polymer comprising a chromophore covalently bonded to one or more of at least three consecutive repeat units. It will be appreciated that the repeat unit itself need not contain a chromophore. The dye polymer may comprise at least 5, or at least 10, or even at least 20, continuous repeat units.

The repeating units may be derived from an organic ester (e.g., phenyl dicarboxylate) in combination with an alkyleneoxy group and a polyoxyalkylene oxy group. The repeating units may be derived from olefins, epoxides, aziridines, carbohydrates including units comprising modified celluloses, such as hydroxyalkyl celluloses; hydroxypropyl cellulose; hydroxypropyl methylcellulose; hydroxybutyl cellulose; and hydroxybutyl methyl cellulose or mixtures thereof. The repeating units may be derived from olefins or epoxides or mixtures thereof. The repeating unit may be a C2-C4 alkyleneoxy group, sometimes referred to as an alkoxy group, preferably derived from a C2-C4 alkyleneoxy group. The repeating unit may be a C2-C4 alkoxy group, preferably an ethoxy group.

For the purposes of the present invention, at least three consecutive repeat units form a polymer component. The polymer component may be covalently bound to the chromophore directly or indirectly through a linking group. Examples of suitable polymer components include polyoxyalkylene chains having multiple repeating units. In one aspect, the polymer component comprises a polyoxyalkylene chain having from 2 to about 30 repeating units, from 2 to about 20 repeating units, from 2 to about 10 repeating units, or even from about 3 or 4 to about 6 repeating units. Non-limiting examples of polyoxyalkylene chains include ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, glycidyl oxide, butylene oxide, and mixtures thereof.

The dye may be incorporated into the detergent composition as an unpurified mixture, which is a direct result of the organic synthetic route. Thus, in addition to the dye polymer, as expected for the results of any polymerization step, there may be a small amount of unreacted starting material, products of side reactions, and mixtures of dye polymers comprising repeat units of different chain lengths.

The composition may comprise one or more detergent enzymes that provide cleaning performance and/or fabric care benefits. Examples of suitable enzymes include, but are not limited to, hemicellulases, peroxidases, proteases, cellulases, xylanases, lipases, phospholipases, esterases, cutinases, pectinases, cutinases, reductases, oxidases, phenol oxidases, lipoxygenases, ligninases, pullulanases, tannase, pentosanases, malaanases (malanases), beta-glucanases, arabinosidases, hyaluronidase, chondroitinase, laccase, and amylases, or mixtures thereof. Typical combinations are combinations of conventionally applicable enzymes such as proteases, lipases, cutinases and/or cellulases in combination with an amylase.

The laundry detergent compositions of the present invention may comprise one or more bleaching agents. Suitable bleaching agents other than bleach catalysts include photobleaches, bleach activators, hydrogen peroxide sources, preformed peracids, and mixtures thereof. Typically, when a bleach is used, the compositions of the present invention may comprise from about 0.1% to about 50% or even from about 0.1% to about 25% bleach by weight of the cleaning composition.

The composition may comprise a whitening agent. Suitable brighteners are stilbenes, for example brightener 15. Other suitable brighteners are hydrophobic brighteners and brighteners 49. The whitening agent may be in the form of micronized particles having a weight average particle size in the range of 3 to 30 microns, or 3 microns to 20 microns, or 3 to 10 microns. The whitening agent may be in alpha or beta crystalline form.

The compositions herein may also optionally contain one or more copper, iron and/or manganese chelating agents. If used, the chelating agent typically comprises from about 0.1% to about 15% by weight of the compositions herein, or even from about 3.0% to about 15% by weight of the compositions herein.

The composition may comprise a calcium carbonate crystal growth inhibitor, such as one selected from the group consisting of: 1-hydroxyethanediphosphonic acid (HEDP) and salts thereof; n, N-dicarboxymethyl-2-aminopentane-1, 5-diacid and salts thereof; 2-phosphonobutane-1, 2, 4-tricarboxylic acid and salts thereof; and any combination thereof.

The compositions of the present invention may also include one or more dye transfer inhibiting agents. Suitable polymeric dye transfer inhibitors include, but are not limited to, polyvinylpyrrolidone polymers, polyamine N-oxide polymers, copolymers of N-vinylpyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole, polyvinyloxazolidones and polyvinylimidazoles, or mixtures thereof. When present in the compositions herein, the dye transfer inhibiting agent is present at a level of from about 0.0001%, about 0.01%, about 0.05% to about 10%, about 2%, or even about 1% by weight of the cleaning composition.

The laundry detergent composition may comprise one or more polymers. Suitable polymers include carboxylate polymers, polyethylene glycol polymers, polyester soil release polymers such as terephthalate polymers, amine polymers, cellulose polymers, dye transfer inhibition polymers, dye lock polymers (such as condensation oligomers produced by condensation of imidazole and epichlorohydrin, optionally in a 1:4:1 ratio), hexamethylenediamine derivative polymers, and any combination thereof.

Other suitable cellulose polymers may have a Degree of Substitution (DS) of 0.01 to 0.99 and a DS+DB of at least 1.00 or DB+2DS-DS ² A blockiness (degree of blockiness) (DB) of at least 1.20. The substituted cellulose polymer may have a Degree of Substitution (DS) of at least 0.55. The substituted cellulose polymer may have a blockiness (DB) of at least 0.35. The substituted cellulose polymer may have a ds+db of 1.05 to 2.00. A suitable substituted cellulose polymer is carboxymethyl cellulose.

Another suitable cellulose polymer is cationically modified hydroxyethylcellulose.

Suitable perfumes include perfume microcapsules, polymer-assisted perfume delivery systems, including schiff base perfume/polymer complexes, starch encapsulated perfume synergists, perfume-loaded zeolites, perfume-releasing perfume synergists, and any combination thereof. Suitable perfume microcapsules are melamine formaldehyde based and typically comprise a perfume encapsulated by a shell comprising melamine formaldehyde. Such perfume microcapsules may be well suited to contain cationic and/or cationic precursor materials in the shell, such as Polyvinylformamide (PVF) and/or cationically modified hydroxyethylcellulose (catHEC).

Suitable suds suppressors comprise silicones and/or fatty acids such as stearic acid.

The liquid laundry detergent composition may be coloured. The color of the liquid laundry detergent composition may be the same as or different from any printed areas on the film of the article. Each compartment of the unit dose article may have a different color. Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises an indirect dye having an average degree of alkoxylation of at least 16.

At least one compartment of the unit dose article may contain a solid. The solids, if present, may be present at a concentration of at least 5% by weight of the unit dose article.

The second water-soluble film may comprise at least one compartment that is open or closed.

In one embodiment, the first web of open pouches is combined with the second web of closed pouches, preferably wherein the first and second webs are brought together and sealed together by suitable means, and preferably wherein the second web is a rotary drum means. In such an apparatus, the pouch is filled at the top of the drum and preferably subsequently sealed with a layer of film, the closed pouch is lowered to meet the first web of pouches (preferably open pouches) preferably formed on a horizontal forming surface. It has been found to be particularly suitable to place the drum unit above the horizontal forming surface unit.

Preferably, the resulting web of closed pouches is cut to produce individual unit dose articles.

Those skilled in the art will recognize the appropriate dimensions of the mold required to manufacture a unit dose article according to the invention.

Preferably, for the value and convenience of the consumer, the package contains a sufficient number of capsules, which is 10 or more capsules, more preferably 20 or more capsules, even more preferably 30 or more capsules, even more preferably 40 or more capsules, and more preferably 50 or more capsules. There may be no more than 70 capsules, preferably no more than 60 capsules in the package.

The capsules are stacked or piled in a package. The higher number of capsules per package reduces manufacturing costs and price to the consumer, but increases the weight of the package and the weight to which each capsule is subjected without being on top of any stacks or piles within the package. The present invention is particularly advantageous for such capsules by minimizing leakage.

Preferably, the mass (m) of each capsule is in the range of 5g < m.ltoreq.30 g, preferably 10g < m <30g. The package comprises at least 20 capsules, preferably at least 30 capsules, more preferably at least 40, even more preferably at least 50 and at most 100 capsules in one package. As the weight of each capsule increases, so does the force applied by the capsule on the package. It is therefore increasingly important to maintain rigidity.

Each capsule may comprise at least two sheets of water-soluble film sealed together by a seal member (referred to as a sealing web) extending around the periphery of the capsule.

Preferably, the capsule further comprises an internal seal separating the capsule to provide the at least two compartments. This may increase the sealing area of each capsule and thus the risk of contamination of the seal during filling. The present invention is particularly advantageous for such capsules.

All compartments are filled with a liquid or gel. However, the further compartments may also be filled with a gel, a powder or any combination thereof. Thus, for example, some capsules may have a compartment containing a liquid and a compartment containing a powder, or may have a liquid-gel, gel-powder combination (each in a different compartment, e.g., liquid, gel, powder).

Suitable compositions that may be divided into different components for use in the present invention include those intended for use in laundry (substrate cleaning, softening and/or treatment) or machine dishwashing.

The multi-compartment capsule may comprise different parts of the treatment composition, which when combined constitute the complete treatment composition. This means that the formulation of the parts of the treatment composition differs in its physical form (e.g. viscosity), its composition or preferably its colour/opacity.

Preferably, the capsules are manufactured by forming, more preferably thermoforming, one or more pieces of the water-soluble film. During molding or thermoforming, recesses are formed in the film. The recess is then filled, and a second, typically thinner, sheet is stacked over the filled recess and sealed to the first sheet of film around the edges of the recess to form a flat sealing web. Matrix treatment compositions having a viscosity above the range of the present invention require a longer time to settle into the capsule recess after filling. The second thinner sheet may be stretched over the stacking formulation (which may comprise a film) if they have not settled when the second sheet is stacked and sealed. Such stretching can create leakage by exacerbating pinholes in the film. The viscosity range of the present invention is therefore particularly advantageous for such capsules.

In the case of a stack of chambers of a unit dose of product or capsule, i.e. they are not side by side but placed on top of another chamber, the product will contain at least three films, one of which is sealed by the other chamber formed on top of the first chamber.

Furthermore, when the vacuum is released from the first sheet of film in the mold, the relaxation of the first film typically then causes the applied second sheet to bulge out.

Suitable water-soluble matrix materials for the capsule membrane include one or more water-soluble polymers. In one embodiment, the water-soluble matrix comprises polyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, polyacrylate, water-soluble acrylate copolymer, polyaminopropyl sulfonic acid and salts thereof, polyitaconic acid and salts thereof, polyacrylamide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, pullulan, cellulosics (such as carboxymethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), water-soluble natural polymers (such as guar gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan and starch), water-soluble polymer derivatives (such as modified starch, including ethoxylated starch and hydroxylated propyl starch, sodium poly (acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonate), polymonomethyl maleic acid and salts thereof, copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof.

In particular embodiments, the water-soluble matrix comprises or consists essentially of: polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate and/or modified polyvinyl alcohol. Polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, and modified polyvinyl alcohol can provide a stable water-soluble matrix with a suitable dissolution rate.

The water-soluble matrix material may also contain one or more plasticizers. Examples of plasticizers include, but are not limited to, glycerol, diglycerol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, monopropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, trimethylpropane polyether polyols, sorbitol, ethanolamine, and mixtures thereof. Suitable membranes include Monosol M4045 and Monosol M8045 (75, 82, 88 and 90 microns) and Aicello PT membranes (PT 75 and 90).

The film is preferably 40-150 microns thick.

The second film is generally similar to the type used for the first film, but is somewhat thinner. Thus, in embodiments, the second film is thinner than the first film. In an embodiment, the ratio of the thickness of the first film to the thickness of the second film is 1:1 to 2:1.

in embodiments, the first film thickness (pre-heat forming) is 50 to 150 microns, 60 to 120 microns, or 80 to 100 microns. After capsule manufacture, the average thickness of the first film is typically 30 to 90 microns, or 40 to 80 microns.

In embodiments, the second film thickness (pre-heat forming) is 20 to 100 microns, 25 to 80 microns, or 30 to 60 microns.

The multi-compartment capsule is produced by a thermoforming process. Such a method may advantageously comprise the steps of:

(a) Placing a first sheet of water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol film over a mold having sets of cavities, each set comprising at least two cavities arranged side-by-side;

(b) Heating the film and applying vacuum to mold the film into these cavities and hold it in place so as to form corresponding recesses in the film;

(c) Filling different parts of the substrate treatment composition, each of which may have a different color/opacity (and different treatment function), into the side recesses and the central recess, the parts together forming a complete detergent composition;

(d) Sealing the second sheet of film to the first sheet of film across the formed recesses to produce a multi-compartment capsule having a plurality of compartments located in opposed positions connected to each other and separated by a continuous inner sealing web;

(e) Cutting between the capsules results in a series of multi-compartment capsules, each containing a portion of the treatment composition in a plurality of compartments (one central compartment and two side compartments).

Sealing may be performed by any suitable method, such as heat sealing, solvent sealing or UV sealing or ultrasonic sealing or any combination thereof. Particularly preferred is a water seal. The water seal may be performed by applying moisture to the second sheet of film prior to sealing the second sheet of film to the first sheet of film to form the sealing region.

The preferred thermoforming method uses a rotating drum with a forming cavity carried thereon. Vacuum thermoforming machines using such drums are available from Cloud LLC. Capsules according to the invention may also be manufactured by thermoforming over a linear array of cavity portions. Machines suitable for this type of process are available from Hoefliger. The following example description focuses on the rotation process. Those skilled in the art will understand how to adapt to employ linear array processes without the inventive effort.

Bittering agent

The water-soluble package of the present invention includes a bittering agent. Bittering agents are generally known. The bittering agent may be any of those described for packaging.

Bittering agents are typically incorporated into the outer surface of the water-soluble package or film coated thereon. Additionally or alternatively, the bittering agent is included in the water-soluble package as a powdered bittering agent in a powder coating applied to an outer surface of the water-soluble package.

In particular embodiments, the bittering agent is incorporated into (included in) the water-soluble matrix. For example, the bittering agent may be incorporated into a matrix of a water-soluble polymer included in a water-soluble matrix by dissolving the bittering agent in a water-soluble polymer solution prior to forming the water-soluble matrix. The bittering agent may be present in the water-soluble matrix material in a range of 100 to 5000ppm, preferably 200 to 3000ppm, more preferably 500 to 2000ppm, based on the weight of the bittering agent and the water-soluble matrix. For example, 1mg of bittering agent may be incorporated into 1g of water-soluble matrix to provide 1000ppm of bittering agent.

Film coating of the bittering agent on the surface of the water-soluble substrate can be performed by known techniques such as spraying or printing a bittering agent solution onto the surface of the water-soluble substrate.

The bittering agent may be included in one or more printed areas, coated thereon and/or contained in a powder coating on the outer surface of the water-soluble matrix. When the bittering agent is included in the printed area, coated thereon and/or included in the powder coating on the outer surface of the water-soluble substrate, there may be no adverse effect on the quality of the UV-curable ink print. In particular, when the bittering agent is incorporated into the water-soluble matrix in the printed area, there is no adverse effect on the quality of the UV-cured ink print. In some embodiments, the bittering agent is homogeneously incorporated into the water-soluble matrix. In this way, the incorporation of bittering agents into and printing of the water-soluble matrix can be simplified.

Others

The unit dose products described herein are suitable for use in a substrate treatment process, suitably a laundry or machine dishwashing process. Thus, in a further aspect the invention provides the use of a unit dose product or capsule as described herein in a cleaning process, suitably a laundry or machine dishwashing process. Suitably, the method comprises opening the package by unlocking the child-resistant closure, removing one or more capsules from the package, placing the capsules in a drum or feed drawer or any feed device of the washing machine before the washing cycle begins.

The capsules are particularly suitable for (substrate) washing machines and dishwashers, among other applications. They may also be used in manual laundry or dish washing operations. In use, the capsule according to the invention is preferably and conveniently placed directly into the liquid in which the washing liquid is to be formed or into the area in which the liquid is to be introduced. The capsules dissolve upon contact with the liquid, releasing the detergent composition from the separate compartments and forming them into the desired wash liquor.

Preferably, once the unit dose article is added to 950ml of deionized water at 20-21 ℃ in a 1L beaker, the capsule breaks between 10 seconds, preferably between 30 seconds and 5 minutes, with the water being stirred with a 5cm magnetic stirrer bar at 350 rpm. By rupture we mean herein that the film is observed to visibly rupture or split. Shortly after the membrane breaks or splits, the internal liquid matrix composition can be seen to leave the article into the surrounding water.

Numerous aspects and aspects are described herein that are intended to be combined to achieve improved or cumulative benefits. Thus, any one aspect may be combined with any other aspect. Similarly, optional features associated with any aspect may be applicable to any of the other aspects.

Referring to the drawings, there is shown a package according to the present invention. Twenty (20) multi-compartment water-soluble capsules (not shown) produced by the thermoforming method described above were stacked together. 20 of these capsules were packaged in a rigid carton 1 having a box-like configuration and providing a receptacle 3 and a hinged closure 5.

The carton comprises a rigid cellulose-based, biodegradable paperboard having a grammage of 225 or higher to achieve a minimum compressive strength of 300N. This was tested by compressing the box between two plates until the box was crushed. Maximum load (recorded before comminution). The packaging design has 4 pairs of locking members 7, 9, 11, 13, each comprising a protrusion on the receptacle 3 and a recess on the lid 5. Pair 7 is separated from pairs 11 and 13 by a distance corresponding to the average span between the thumb and index finger of an adult hand. Likewise, each pair is separated from 2 of the other pairs by such a distance. Only when all two pairs are released simultaneously, it is possible to open the lid of the packaging container.

The distance and angular arrangement of each pair of locking elements makes it impossible for a child to press all four locking elements simultaneously. The rigidity of the package ensures that the locking members of each pair are aligned during closure to prevent access to the package by a child.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting drawings, in which:

figure 1 is a perspective view of the cap,

figure 2 is a perspective view of the base,

FIG. 3 is a cross section of a biodegradable package, and

fig. 4 is a schematic side view of a biodegradable package.

Detailed Description

In detail, fig. 1 shows a lid (1) for a biodegradable package. The lid comprises a top (2) and a top side wall (3) depending from each edge of the top (2). The side walls shown terminate in a bottom edge (4).

Fig. 2 shows a base (8) having a bottom (7) and upstanding from the edge of the base (7), the base side wall (5) ending at the top edge (6).

Dimensionally, the lid (1) and the base (8) are such that they slidingly co-operate to close the package and retain the contents.

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view along A-A and shows the lid (1) and base (8) joined to close the package.

The package also has an absorbent pad (9) for improved leakage protection of the package. The pad (9) is held on the bottom at the base of the package and under any contents of the package. Whereby the absorbent pad (9) minimizes or controls any leakage from the unit dose capsule.

The cover side wall (3) is shown having an inner surface (3A) and an outer surface (3B). The outer surface (3B) is a bleached surface and has a water-based barrier material coated thereon. The inner surface (3A) is an unbleached surface and no barrier material is applied thereto.

The base side wall (5) is shown having an inner surface (5A) and an outer surface (5B). The outer surface (5B) is an unbleached surface and is not coated with a water-based barrier material. The inner surface (5A) is a bleached surface and has a barrier material applied thereto. The inner surface of the base (5B) also has a thermoplastic elastomer based barrier material applied thereto.

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the dimensions of the cap and the child-resistant closure.

In side view, the width of the cover is shown as 11cm. This is the width along the length at the point where the user activates the child-resistant closure. The user uses his finger and thumb to activate the child-resistant mechanism activation regions (10) on either side of the cap. The actual mechanism is not shown, but when the user presses the area and pulls the lid away from the base, actuation of the area allows the lid to separate from the base.

Example 1

The water-soluble capsules comprise water-soluble capsules of laundry treatment composition dispensed into each of the three compartments as follows:

the unit dose product comprises a water-soluble film printed on the inside.

Example 2

Other exemplary formulations of unit dose products are provided below.

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The unit dose product comprises a water-soluble film printed on the inside.

Claims

1. A container for unit dose liquid detergent products, the container comprising a lid and a base, characterised in that at least 50% of the lid and/or base comprises biodegradable material, wherein the base and top are co-operable to form a closed container and which are openable to access the contents by pulling them apart, the lid and base comprising a barrier coating and an optional adhesive for adhering the barrier coating to the lid and base, the container comprising a plurality of unit dose detergent products, and wherein the barrier coating and optional adhesive comprise from 0.1 to 5% by weight of the container in the absence of the unit dose detergent products.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the barrier coating comprises a water-based barrier coating.

3. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the barrier coating comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.

4. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container has a pair of opposed elongate walls, each elongate wall having a depressible region that is depressed to engage a child-resistant locking mechanism and enable separation of the cap and base.

5. The container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container has an average width, an average length, and an average height, wherein the average width is 9cm to 15cm.

6. The container of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises a lid having a top sheet and two pairs of opposing walls attached thereto, and a base having a bottom surface with two pairs of opposing walls attached thereto.

7. The container of any preceding claim, wherein the unit dose detergent product contains a detergent composition comprising 5 wt% to 15 wt% water.

8. The container of any preceding claim, wherein the unit dose detergent product comprises a bittering agent.

9. The container of any preceding claim, wherein the detergent product comprises a water-soluble film at the unit dose, and wherein the film comprises a phthalocyanine-based pigment.

10. The container of any preceding claim, wherein the unit dose detergent product comprises a detergent composition comprising a chelating agent.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the chelating agent is a phosphonic acid based chelating agent.

12. The container of claim 10 or 11, wherein the chelating agent is 1-hydroxyethanediphosphonic acid (HEDP) and salts thereof; n, N-dicarboxymethyl-2-aminopentane-1, 5-diacid and salts thereof; 2-phosphonobutane-1, 2, 4-tricarboxylic acid and salts thereof; and any combination thereof.