DE60223691T2 - WATER-SOLUBLE PACKAGING - Google Patents

Description

The The present invention relates to improved packaging which at least partially or substantially completely soluble in water, for the controlled release of substances, methods for controlled Release using the packaging, process for the preparation thereof, the use of releasing a wide range of substances and new products that include the packaging.

Water-soluble packaging with partial or complete resolution of which, little or no residue remains, are in the literature known for dispensing or distributing substances. Such packaging materials are used in isolation as self-supporting packaging or They are used in combination with non-soluble dispensers or dispensers ("Dispensers") used Packaging materials employ substances containing, for example Dangerous substances, Fungicides, etc., concentrates such as detergents, and the like resolution free in water.

The Advantages of such packaging are readily apparent namely by reducing the risk of splashing or spilling on dangerous Substances during dilution, picking up dangerous Powder substances before dissolution and preventing the risk of inhalation, avoiding the need for safe disposal of used packaging material for dangerous Substances and the like, providing a previously measured Dosage in prescribed quantities as individual packagings or packages, convenient handling, minimizing the loss of substance sediments, the Packaging disposal and the like.

at For some uses, it is acceptable to have a residue amount that for example as a surface film remains, although this is undesirable for certain uses.

For larger amounts of substance to be released, there is a risk of breakage or failure of the package. In EP-A-763 479 (Rhone Poulenc Agric Limited) discloses such a package in which the liquid substance to be released contains an additive to increase its viscosity. However, such solutions to the problem are not completely satisfactory and therefore there is a need for a water-soluble package that is sufficiently resilient to reliably receive a substance to the desired delivery point.

DE 79 10 284 relates to a water-insoluble transport bag made of polyvinyl alcohol. The bag discloses a reinforcing tape that is soluble in hot water. This reinforcing tape covers a zone of physical weakness that will open in a washing machine when the reinforcing tape is dissolved in the hot water. The bag can be reused by covering the zone of physical weakness with a new reinforcing tape.

The Encapsulation technology using water-soluble Capsule material is for sale in the pharmaceutical industry of pharmaceuticals, vitamins, supplements and the like by oral uptake using gelatin, cellulose and Derivatives known as encapsulating materials. Gelatin, cellulose and Derivatives and the like are substantially completely soluble in Water and they are used as capsule material for food and active substances or medicinal products. These capsules are for dissolution over one Range of periods provided under different conditions within the body.

Soluble gelatine sachets are in the literature for taking up and keeping or getting flavoring, coloring and other substantially dry food components as a part from prepackaged foods, like dehydrated pasta in one Vessel in which hot Water is added to prepare the food for consumption, known. Failure or breakage of such sachets may cause deterioration to lead the content.

It is an ongoing one Need for improved packaging materials and configurations to the appropriate applications and uses of a number of water-soluble packaging materials possibly expand.

It it is an object of the present invention to provide a package which at least partially or substantially completely in water containing substances is dispersible or soluble, for a controlled Release of a wide range of different solid and liquid substances in a wide range of different forms, with the packaging versatile or versatile is and easy for the intended substance or use in a desired manner is manipulated.

We have now surprisingly found that a package comprising materials which are at least partially or substantially completely water-soluble materials is adapted in accordance with the present invention to provide novel formulation and configuration combinations suitable for releasing contained or entrapped substances in a manner to achieve the object defined hereinabove.

In its broadest aspect, according to the present invention, there is provided a controlled release package comprising packaging material which is substantially completely dispersible or soluble in an effective amount of a water-containing substance and which is adapted to contain or contain one or more substances, in which
the package for releasing contained or entrapped substances in response to a predetermined stimulus is predeterminedly adapted to a desired location with substantially simultaneous or subsequent, partial or complete dispersion or dissolution of the substances, the package comprising:
at least one primary and secondary component adapted to dissolve and release the substance at the desired site in a manner which provides for release at a predetermined timing and in a predetermined manner,
wherein the at least primary and secondary components provide regions of multilayer structures and single layer structures, and
one of the primary component or the secondary component, weaknesses in the form of packaging material formulated for rapid or slow dissolution or breaking, or defects or water carrying elements such as shaping or embossing in the form of non-penetrating perforations to initiate dissolution the packaging has.

The Substance that is to be released may be in the form of a solid or a liquid and is preferably selected from powders, granules, crystals, microcapsules, monolithic Molds, suspensions, dispersions, concentrates, gels, thixotropes, non-aqueous solutions and the like, and mixtures thereof. Solid substances can be found in a desired one Quality or a desired one Range of qualities available. In certain applications, it is desired that To provide substance in fine and coarse form for a prolonged effect. It is an advantage of the present invention that single substance doses the wished Range of solid quality and are not subject to the disadvantages of "settling" which from the transport and storage of volumes of the substance or when combining substances with different particle qualities ("particle grades ") results.

The Substance that is to be released may be in the water-dispersible or soluble packaging material be integrated, which in the form of a solid or hollow mass, a hollow container or inclusion means of a separate container, and / or they can be inside the hollow mass, container or containment be included or included.

The Packaging is through a novel selection of features or elements or combinations of features of the packaging conformation and / or configuration ("Configuration"), the packaging material formulation and the like in a way to create a novel set of properties or to provide combinations of properties. More specifically, the packaging is characterized by a novel selection of features or combinations of handling and storage, z. In a way to influence, which lead to premature release, to be resisted, and indeed by the packaging formulation conformation or configuration ( "Package formulation conformation or configuration "), including sealing and reinforcing thereof, the nature of the covered, contained or enclosed Substances which are a viscous or non-viscous liquid, a non-compactable or -pressible flowable powder and other forms of substance that are not easily manipulated or can be controlled the nature and / or timing of the release, e.g. B. for Release of a substance or a combination of substances in simultaneous or sequential manner or for release of substances in such a way that they interact with other substances at the desired Place for an improved performance or quality of the substance at the intended Use come into contact, the nature of the predetermined Release stimulus and the like, this z. B. the water containing substance itself, a physical or chemical Stimulus to the desired Place or a combination of it is. The features and properties can from the water-soluble or -dispersible packaging material and / or the additional Materials or substances with the water-dispersible or -soluble Formulated, adapted or designed for packaging material ("conformed or configured ") are, or from the conformation or configuration of the packaging derive and they will be provided according to the intended Use selected.

The package may be substantially entirely of water-dispersible or -soluble packaging material, or combinations thereof, as hereinbefore defined, or may be additional materials as hereinbefore , which are at least partially dispersible or soluble or the like. Preferably, the package is substantially completely soluble as defined hereinabove.

A Reference to a water-containing substance refers herein on any solid, a semi-solid substance, a liquid or a gaseous one (Vapor) Liquid or a corresponding fluid comprising water in more effectively dispersing or more dissolving Amount. Water can be bound chemically or physically releasable or it can be freely accessible be and be accumulated or accumulated by the substance or be absorbed by the material easily and immediately. Preferably comprises a water-containing substance as defined hereinbefore, Water in liquid or vaporous form or watery solutions or vapor mixtures of it with liquids or vaporous (Substances), such as alcohols and the like, or it includes solids or semi-solid substances that have water attached or accessible. Water can be from the water-dispersible or -soluble Packaging material to be accumulated, which at least partially dispersed or dissolved is the substance encompassed, contained or trapped in the accumulated water, and the dispersed or dissolved packaging material can be held back at the place be dispersed or dispersed from there, and indeed during the intended use or otherwise.

A Reference to a predetermined stimulus refers herein on any stimulus that contained the release of the or entrapped substance causes. The stimulus can be one chemical or physical stimulus for dissolving or dispersing Transform by precipitation or morphology change, Breaking, tearing or other permeability the packaging or a part thereof for release or entrapped substance.

Of the Stimulus can be the water-containing substance that disperses or dissolving, be or differ from it. The packaging materials can be used in hot or cold, water-containing substance dispersible or soluble and / or by dissolution or other physical or chemical measures, such as exposure to Warmth, Acid or Base, solvents and solvent mixtures, oxidizing conditions, radiant energy, including UV, Microwaves and the like, or biodegradation agents, substance release.

A Reference herein refers to any Place, an area or the like, to / in or at the time of release of the Substance desired becomes. The site may be the same as a site where the substance is a desired one Effect, or it may be different from this point, but is connected to this.

Preferably the packaging includes a primary and secondary Component regarding the conformation, configuration or formulation required for resolution and Release the substance at the desired site and for control of the stimulus or external influences which subjected the release element in a manner adapted is a release with a predetermined timing and in a predetermined Way offers.

The Packaging may comprise any suitable material which is capable of to be molded into a package, and which in a water containing substance is dispersible or soluble, with only a part left as a remainder or substantially no residue left behind.

Preferably, the water-dispersible or soluble packaging material comprises a natural or synthetic polymer or mixtures thereof selected from:
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethylene oxide, chemically modified cellulose or cellulose ethers and other cellulose derivatives, modified starches, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylamide or gelatin or derivatives thereof. Chemically modified cellulose and cellulose ethers include alkyl and / or hydroxyalkyl substituted cellulose or cellulose ethers having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, preferably methyl cellulose (ether), hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose (with the chemical name cellulose hydroxypropyl ether), hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC with the chemical name cellulose hydroxypropyl methyl ether), hydroxybutylmethyl cellulose and the like. Modified starches include destructured starch, cross-linked granular starches, chemically modified starches, including alkyl-substituted starches, amino starches and oxidized starches, dextrin and maltodextrins.

Water-dispersible or -soluble packaging material is suitably selected or adjusted according to independent mechanical properties or combinations thereof ("soft" or "hard" and / or self-supporting or non-self-supporting, resilient to premature breakage or otherwise, and the like) and / or independent chemical properties and combinations thereof (slow or fast, full or partial dissolution, reactive with the desired release stimulus and the like), non-toxicity requirements (for the environment, human or animal health or for food-related uses and the like). For example, various formulations and combinations of water-dispersible / or -soluble packaging material (s) having the desired combination of properties may be provided by moisture content, pH, moisture retention, swelling properties, gel strength, gel point, Viscosity, concentration, reactive substituent groups (crosslinking), and sensitivity to a number of external stimuli, such as temperature, pH, solvents and mixed solvents, oxidizing conditions, radiant energy, such as UV or microwaves, fungal and bacterial biodegradation, and the like or is selected. Formulations and formulation techniques are known, for. As in Hard Capsules, Ed. Ridgeway, WO 98/27151 (Warner Lambert), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

preferred Close packaging materials Gelatin, starch or cellulose or derivatives and mixtures thereof, which are in water essentially complete soluble are. It was found that natural or synthetic gelatin and HPMC particularly convenient properties exhibit.

The Packing of the present invention may be of any desired conformation and configuration capable of forming a solid or a liquid one Substance as defined hereinbefore include. Preferably, the packaging comprises a packaging material in the form solid or hollow masses, hollow containers or containment means, like capsules, sachets, bags or sachets, spherical, pyramidal, oblong, circular or conical bags and the like or containment means, as in Membranes, partitions, lids, flaps and the like. The conformation or configuration may, in accordance with the control requirements, Storage requirements (stackable or storage capability in a space-saving Way, d. H. Cube), the usage (adapted to the configuration for localization in or in association with a means of environmental support), Dispensable (adapted to separable or releasable on a delivery route or line ("dispensing line "), -hook, rack or the like for a convenient access) and the like.

The Packaging as defined hereinabove may be a primary structure or an area of the packaging material for strengthening, strengthening, maintaining the packaging integrity while release or other such purpose as a scaffold, frame, Fibers, a net, a ribbing, a webbing, a Seal or the like, integrated in or at least partially (co) -continuous with a secondary structure of a substantially continuous one or continuous packaging material in the desired Provide configuration.

alternative or additionally the packaging can be a primary receiving or enclosing Sleeve or Layer in the form of a shell or sheath, a board or the like, which is a secondary receiving or inclusive Layer of the packaging material includes or include include.

alternative or additionally the packaging can be primary Packaging material with secondary Weaknesses in the form of packaging material that too fast or slow dissolving or Breaking is formulated, or from defects or water-carrying Elements, such as shaping or embossing in the form of non-penetrating perforations, tear-off strips and the like.

The primary and secondary Structures and layers and the packaging material with weak spots, as defined hereinabove, may be selected from the same or different from various packaging materials and combinations thereof, as hereinbefore defined, with the same or different Properties such as thickness and the like exist. Various Close packaging materials at least one packaging material that is a water-dispersible or soluble packaging material which is the same as at least one which is a packaging material, which is adapted for release as hereinbefore defined is, or is different from.

alternative or additionally The packaging means may be for locating or positioning within the place to which a contained substance is released should, include, in a way that this at the optimal Site for storage or timing or activation of the release stimulus for example the effect of dissolving Water attached to the release element at the site or the Packaging in desired Holding position in a way the influences like an impact force while Handling and storage and the like withstands.

Such locating means may be Packaging material, as defined hereinabove, adapted to engage a suitable carrier, for example, may comprise an elongate, substantially elastic or flexible member adapted to be connected or hooked to a suitable neck or may be localized or received in a recess of an effective support in the environment in which the package is contained, or may include elastically deformable tabs extending in opposite directions from the packaging material as hereinbefore defined and adapted to be deformed under localization between opposing holding means, surfaces and the like of an effective carrier and held by elasticity.

alternative or additionally the packaging comprises a specific configuration, conformation or Formulation that is adapted to external influences that the packaging can be subjected to a premature Release of contained or entrapped substance absorb or reduce this. For example, the packaging a protective one Shape for the impart contained or entrapped liquid substance to Minimize turbulence during storage and handling, and / or it may be packaging material having a thickness, strength, elasticity, flexibility and the like which are adapted to withstand external influences.

The Packaging as defined hereinabove may be adapted thereto to be self-sustaining.

Alternatively or additionally, the package as defined hereinbefore comprises means to assist the rapid release of contained or entrapped substance. In this case, the package comprises means for enhancing its response to a release stimulus by means of a formulation or additional components incorporated into or contained in the package. Preferably, the reaction enhancing agents are adapted to cause release by expansion upon contact with water-containing substances, for example comprising swelling or expanding agents (corn starch), foaming agents (sodium bicarbonate and citric acid), disintegrants (Explotab ^™ available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals, or Primojel ^™ , available from Avebe), dispersants (sodium starch glycolate, sodium alginate, carboxymethylcellulose sodium salt, and the like) or contained gases, e.g., positive overpressure air and the like, stimulus sensitizers adapted, for example, to release a change in pH (change in the degree of acid or alkali conditions or transition therebetween), a change in temperature, exposure to microwaves, UV, solvents and solvent mixtures, and the like. The reaction enhancing agents may be incorporated in the packaging material of the package or may be contained in open or closed porosity therein to provide increased surface area and weaknesses as hereinbefore defined Release, z. B. by the solvent action in contact with water, and to provide expansion of the air contained in temperature change, contact of foaming agents with water, microwaves, UV, solvents and solvent mixtures and the like.

In Another aspect of the invention is a method of manufacture a package as hereinbefore defined, provided comprising forming a packaging material as hereinbefore defined defined, and the introduction of one or more substances as hereinbefore defined, to be released, in a way that these including, contained in, or included therein. The production can in a single step or a desired sequence dependent on from the intended use, the substance released and the shape of the packaging. The Manufacturing process may be adapted to any features formulation, conformation, configuration, and the like, such as as defined hereinbefore.

The Packaging may be obtained by any known means of forming packaging materials, as defined hereinbefore. Suitable agents shut down any means of molding thermoplastic materials, including residue-free Sealing one or more slides, deforming one or more more films through the action of heat, solvents, such as water, vacuum, Pressure and the like, explode, shaping out of solution or Melt, for example by immersion or spraying on a shaper, casting, Shape Etc.

The substance (s) may be by any known mechanical or chemical means including simultaneously deforming the material and the substance by, for example, fusing, blending or blending into a molten packaging material or solution thereof or sealing the packaging material around the substance / e, for example, by softening the packaging material with water or a sensitizer and egg bonding on non-softened or similarly softened packaging material, bonding or welding with solvent, glue and the like, with or without application of heat or pressure, are included in, contained in or incorporated in the packaging material. Preferably, sealing is accomplished by techniques such as disclosed in the patent publications in the name of Capsugel, specifically by contacting edges of the packaging material with a melting point-lowering sealing liquid, such as organic solvents, e.g. Alkyl-substituted C _1-5 alcohols, water, a polymer solution or emulsion, a solution of a proteolytic enzyme to produce a protein solution, and the like, and applying thermal energy or the like to effect fusion, such as, for example in terms of sealing capsules in EP 0 152 517 . EP 0 180 543 . EP 0 116 744 and EP 0 116 743 , the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Vulnerabilities As defined hereinabove, in the packaging material provided by known means, for example by inculcate or molding into the shape of the package by necking and the like, by exposure to laser or by predetermined Orientation or order of molecules within the chemical Structure of the packaging.

The Packaging as defined hereinabove may be adapted thereto be, any desired amount or any desired Volume of solid or liquid To contain substance. Suitably, the shape and the configuration the packaging partially with reference to the desired volume and the nature of the substance to be contained or to be included. Preferably, the packaging adapted to volumes of up to 10 liters of substance, eg. In the Range 0.1 ml up to 10 liters, to be included. Subareas for intended Applications are preferably in the range of 0.1-5 ml, 5-50 ml, 50-500 ml, 500 ml to 5 liters and 5-10 liters. The packaging may be adapted to have a volume this is essentially equal to that of the substance that contained should be, or greater than this is, for. B. up to three times the volume of the substance, which should be included. The packaging volume can be according to the ease of filling selected with substances become. Suitable packaging is adapted to a single metered Dose ("single measure do se ") one or of several substances to be liberated or to include or include.

The Packaging may be adapted for clustering or a clustering element. The packaged substance can cumulative be present in clusters (clustered) or aggregated by self-adhesion, cluster attachment ( "Clustering attachment ") and the like, in the case that a single dimension or a single dimensioning exceeds the volume of the substance, where possible is that it is included or included, or at the event, the dosage according to a preference takes place, or in the case that a selection of substances simultaneously or released in a controlled sequence.

The Packaging may include several compartments to prevent substances to separate the release or to provide a sequential release.

The Packaging, as defined hereinabove, may be an identification element include that z. B. imprinted, shaped directly or indirectly, for. B. by training of the flexible packaging material tightly over a contained substance with shaped protrusions, or imprinted, may be marked by laser or the like to the nature or the Origin of ingredients, indicate the nature of use or to incorporate design features. Printing is preferably by means of Inks, dyes and the like are carried out, which are completely soluble in water and which are adapted thereto, starting from non-aqueous solutions or of aqueous solutions to be printed.

The Packaging as defined hereinabove may be adapted thereto be substances substantially immediately upon contact with water-containing Substances as defined hereinbefore or in a controlled manner Duration of the order of Minutes for an immediate use, lasting a quarter or a half Hour, if it is z. B. desired is to prepare the packaging ("Prime") and the environment to evacuate for release, hours or days, if it is z. B. desired is the packaging for release for a period of time at which it is inconvenient or impossible is to gain access to the site, to prepare, or in response to a stimulus, z. In the case that it is desired, the substances in an event natural or artificial Release water, for example, coinciding with rain or intentional or unintentional release of water, the part any chemical, mechanical, construction, manufacturing process or the like is to be released.

The packaging can be supplemented with be adapted to increase the barrier properties, for example, to impart opacity to oxygen or the like or to improve them.

The Packaging may be as a part or as a variety of parts to the Time of filling assembled with substrate should be, for. B. using conventional or modified Capsule technology, be provided.

The Packaging may be any desired thickness, e.g. B. in the area 0.01-10 mm, have. It is a particular advantage of the present invention that a minimum thickness, z. B. in the range 0.01-1.0 mm, with load capacity or elasticity against unintentional Tear can be achieved and that a maximum thickness, z. In the range 2-10 mm, with the desired precision for the Timing of the release can be achieved by means of Selection of properties and characteristics of formulations of the packaging material, conformations, like a solid mass ("solid mass ") of packaging material, or configurations, such as structures and weak points of the packaging according to the invention, as hereinbefore defined.

It it should be recognized that packaging material as hereinbefore Defined, it may be adapted to the integrity of the packaging to sustain the release of substances and simultaneously dissolve with the release or to be dispersed or subsequently over a prolonged period to be dispersed or dissolved while still within the desired Place in contact with the substance containing water is while the duration in which the substance which was released becomes effective is or after.

The Packaging may come with an additional film or container be provided, if it is important, the surface free of contamination or to keep contamination.

The Packaging or the substance to be contained may be one additional Include display element, for. For example, a component that indicates when the resolution Completely or when the substance has achieved its desired effect. A dye within the substance is detectable at the aqueous site, as soon as the resolution is sufficiently advanced to release the substance. The dye may be associated with the substance, causing the color to disappear, as soon as the substance is consumed in the application.

In Another aspect of the invention is a method of controlled Release of a substance as hereinbefore defined a water-dispersible or -soluble packaging material, as defined hereinabove, comprising locating the packaging at an intended release site and the action of a release stimulus, for example, contact with water containing substance as hereinbefore defined in one effective dispersing or dissolving amount, for effective Time to release, as hereinbefore defined, to activate and release the substance in the place where the packaging substantially simultaneously or subsequently at least partially or substantially completely in the water-containing substance disbanded becomes. The packaging may have any features of conformation, configuration or formulation as hereinbefore defined.

The The method provides the following advantages: Reducing the risk splashing or spilling at dangerous Substances during the dilution, Picking up dangerous Powder substances before dissolution and preventing the risk of inhalation, avoiding the need for safe disposal of used packaging material for dangerous Substances and the like, providing a pre-measured dosage in prescribed quantities as individual packagings or packages, convenient handling, minimizing the loss of substance sediments, the Packaging disposal and the like.

The A controlled release method as hereinbefore defined, can for any desired Be use for which is intended to be a substance in an environment with each the benefits as mentioned hereinabove.

The Packaging can be located directly at the desired location or it can by appropriate measures to the desired Be transported, wherein a contact containing water Substance is avoided.

The inventive packaging may be adapted to sink or float in water, if you want to Place to a water reservoir we added, or initially too sink or float and subsequently after a predetermined Float before or at the time of release of the content or to sink, z. B. as an indicator or the water content to maximize or minimize before release and the like.

The process can be used to release agrochemicals, including growth control agents for pest or plants, control or control agents for plant diseases, soil conditioners and the like. For example, pesticide growth control agents include insecticides, acaricides, rodenticides, molluscicides, slugicides, vermicides (nematocides, anthelmintics), soil fumigants, repellents and attractants for pests such as pheromones, etc. and biological control agents such as microorganisms, predators and natural products; plant growth control agents include herbicides, defoliants, siccatives, fruit-case and batch control agents, rooting compounds, anti-sprouting agents, growth stimulants and retardants; Moss and lichen control agents, plant genetic controller agents or agents; Plant disease control agents include fungicides, viricides, wood preservatives and bactericides; and soil conditioners include fertilizers, trace metal additives, bacterial action control stimulants and soil compacting agents.

The Procedure can for Agricultural, hothouse, horticultural, forestry applications and the like on an industrial or domestic scale by means of spraying, spraying, drilling and such techniques.

The Close advantages of the process the advantages as defined hereinabove and they may be further Advantages of safe handling, including a reduced risk for contamination or transmission or carryover and no skin contact with the active substance, the expediency or convenience and ease of use, without metering, Decanting or reclosing partially used Sachets, giving up with the need to contaminated packaging to dispose of the precise Dose control, avoidance of user exposure to dust particles, providing solubility in cold water, providing greater flexibility in the Selection of dose levels and with commercially available granules, reducing the risk of product degradation or deterioration as soon as opened , optimizing the particle size for dissolution and using a minimal packaging. Other advantages include non-clogging in spray nozzles and the like, the non-existent need for use a stirrer, that no residue remains, a leak-proof or sealed robust packaging and low costs per dose per unit area ( "Unit area ").

The Method is also suitable for releasing environmental treatment agents, such as water purifiers, disinfectants, waste treatment agents and the like, including Control or control agents for by Carry over water Viruses, bacteria, organisms and insects that carry disease, natural and industrial contaminants, including by water Control or control agents for plant growth, Soil-dispersing agents ("soil run off dispersant agents"), neutralizing agents for cooling water and recycled water and the like. The benefits are as above for the agricultural Use specified and close Advantages of using approved substances for use in the purification of drinking water and the provision of high quality water, which is not due to particles or undissolved solid packaging material or residues contaminated is, and the speed of the cleaning process. substances can into the water or to the desired one Place in the desired concentration, the for the wished Effect is suitable to be released, z. In smaller quantities, to do it for make sure to consume it, or in higher quantities, to find a solution Application to an item or a site that is cleaned, to be disinfected or treated.

The Procedure can be used for handling by the time of use safe substances to be stored, eg. B. hazardous substances, including corrosive Substances, chemical reagents, drain cleaners and the like, in diluted Shape can be used which, although unpleasant, are in powdered, non-aqueous or concentrated form are relatively safe, but which become dangerous in solution, be used. In this case, a unit dosage packing ( "Unit dose packaging ") which is safe to handle and which one is correct dilution and safety until the time of use. This may have advantages as defined above, in addition to other advantages, such as eliminating the need to put bulk substances in dangerous diluted form by providing a means for the safe dilution by the end user.

The process may be used to liberate detergents and their components in the form of solids or liquids, for example concentrates, including home and industrial detergents for cleaning buildings, articles and clothing and for personal care using known detergents or cleaners. The advantages include those listed above and they include It also provides aesthetic benefits whereby the package leaves no residue or residue on the hands and is more comfortable to handle than powder or tablets of high structural integrity, preventing break-up or risk of spilling the substance, a reduced risk for product degradation as soon as a primary packaging is opened and has an associated extended shelf life, may have more efficient and effective release of key ingredients, is easier to produce, formulate and use, and has a reduced risk of concentrate damage (""concentratedamage") to garments, skin and other articles, and makes the use of bags or devices from which the substance is released optional, in addition to the advantages of minimizing the required amount of softening agents, bleaching agents, Brighteners, dispersants, foaming agents and other solubilizing agents, including phosphates. Typically, these components typically degrade or degrade over time, or may be poorly dispersed within the detergent, which may be the metering of multi-function substances in a single dose or in sequential doses in a single dose Packaging, eg, with a substance embedded or entrapped within another substance within the package, which minimizes the volume-to-weight ratio, and the like (not).

The Method can also be used to release food components, including Odors and flavors in the form of dried or powdery Solids, liquids and fleeting Fabrics, texturizers, colorants, moisture absorbers like rice, cornmeal, salt and the packaging material itself, oils and Fats, dried dairy products and other food products, which deteriorate in the presence of oxygen, seasonings and herbs and the like. The method of release of food substances has advantages as stated above, and additional Advantages regarding the exact dose control, which provides sizes, the z. B. with Standard kitchen dimensions connected are, the separation of ingredients or ingredients without use of packages that need to be opened by the user, eg. As in instant food packages, the environmentally friendly avoidance non-edible secondary packaging, microwave fitness, non-existent risk of contamination with secondary packaging fragments, clean and easy handling, edible packaging, imperceptible residues in hot water, of sealing against air, obtaining freshness and durability, which Taste and smell masking to the need, z. For example, the contamination to avoid other food components or the like, the maintenance of vitamins, color and purity of the aroma and the like. With a particular advantage, the packaging can be used due to the deterioration or decomposition of substances due to to minimize contact during storage by separation, and she can simultaneously for Improved dispersibility and contact on release by positioning food components in a manner for the ensure optimal contact with release.

In In another aspect of the invention, new products are provided, which comprise the package as hereinbefore defined. Close suitable new products Products that are for the specific methods as hereinbefore defined with adapted to the associated benefits. The products can be used for To fill be provided with a substance (s) for release or you can provided containing the substance (s). The Products can a packaging with features of conformation, configuration and Formulation as defined hereinabove.

The The invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example illustrated on the following figures, wherein

the 1a - 1i Sectional and elevational views of the packaging according to the invention comprising primary packaging material with secondary weak points are;

the 2a and 2 B Sectional and elevational views of the package according to the present invention, including primary and secondary structures and conformational options thereof;

the 3a and 3b with enlarged views, sectional and elevational view of the package according to the present invention, including locating means;

the 4a to 4c Views of configurations of the packaging according to the invention with the manufacturing process are;

sdie 5a and 5b Views of clustering elements and a clustered packaging according to the invention are.

In 1 In any case, the packaging is in the form of conformations and configurations typically obtained by dipping from molten packaging materials or solutions of packaging materials. In the 1a to 1g are capsules containing a plurality of water-dispersible or -soluble layers and / or portions of material in the form of peripheral sleeves ( 11 ) and connecting parts ( 12 . 13 ).

1a FIG. 10 shows a capsule with a central monolayer of fast dissolving packaging material and peripheral double layers of fast-slow-dissolving packaging material adapted to provide a weak connection or weak point as hereinbefore defined. In 1b FIG. 11 is a capsule having a central and a peripheral monolayer of fast dissolution and slow dissolution packaging materials and a peripheral double layer of fast dissolution packaging material as an alternative to the configuration of FIG 1a shown. Variations of these configurations are illustrated and may be determined according to the desired ease of fabrication and the desired release characteristics.

The capsule off 1a can z. B. by forming the peripheral sleeves ( 11a Inner, 11d Exteriors) by immersing a For mers in a first recess in corresponding solutions or melting of packaging material with slow or fast dissolution, then molding the sleeve ( 11a Exterior) by immersion in a larger depression in a solution or melt of packaging material with rapid dissolution, simultaneous production of a part ( 11b ) and finally filling and overlapping the part ( 11b ) with the sleeve ( 11d Exterior), wherein simultaneously a seal or seal ( 11c ) are produced.

The capsule off 1b can z. B. by forming sleeves ( 11e Inner, 11d ) as for 11a (Inside) and 11d (Outer) above, then shaping the sleeve ( 11e Exterior) by immersing the interior into a shallower depression in slow dissolving and filling packaging material and overlapping the sleeve ( 11d ), wherein simultaneously a seal ( 11c ) is formed.

The 1c and 1d show the peripheral sleeves of capsules which are shrunk over the substance (with molding or compression molding) and in between secondary weaknesses in the form of a readily releasing region ( 12 ) having an area adapted to peel-off, for example when swollen, in the form of an unsealed abutment of the two peripheral sleeves ( 11d ) exhibit.

The 1e and 1f show capsules comprising an easily dissolving packaging material tape ( 13 ), which creates a gap between sleeves ( 11d ) bridged. Solid or liquid ingredients are contained within the capsule ( 11d . 11d ) and over the easily resolved area ( 13 ) released in water at fast dissolution.

The 1g shows a capsule comprising a peripheral monolayer sleeve with fast resolution ( 11f ), which includes a substance, and an inner secondary peripheral sleeve ( 11d ) attached to the distal peripheral sleeve ( 11d ) the package is jarring or overlapping sealed. The capsule may be capable of containing two of the same or different graded release substances with rapid release of a substance via the rapidly dissolving sleeve (FIG. 11f ) and subsequent release of the second substance by slowly dissolving the capsule ( 11d . 11d ) include.

In the 1h and 1i packaging in the form of a primary immersion bag or bag ( 14 ), the filled and with a separate cover part ( 15 ) or by self-sealing by fold ( 16 ) as illustrated. The fold may optionally accommodate a release feature in the form of a primary structure as a point of strength portion to prevent premature release, or as a secondary weak point portion adapted for, for example, rapid dissolution in water is to release the contents of the bag with subsequent dissolution of the bag or bag provide.

In the 2a and 2 B A sachet in the form of a secondary structure packaging material ( 21 ), located around a primary structure, a mesh bag of low-speed reinforcement packaging material ( 22 ), which with the packaging material ( 21 ) may be sealed or fused or the like. The packaging material ( 21 ) is sealed at the edges.

This packaging is suitable for dispensing substances of various graded qualities, whereby the rapid dissolution of the packaging material ( 21 ) the fine particles from the inside of the primary structure, the mesh bag ( 22 ), and larger particles later on in the slow dissolution of the mesh bag ( 22 ) are released. The sachet may contain the packaging material ( 21 ) as a flexible or rigid packaging material or as a combination thereof, which is flat or shaped, e.g. B. by vacuum, can be. This configuration can also be in their embodiments of the invention, as hereinbefore defined, may be employed using any packaging material as desired.

In 3a is a water-soluble capsule ( 31 ) in the form of a first capsule part, held by means of an elastically deformable capsule sleeve ( 32 ) on a carrier or carrier ( 33 ) instead of ( 34 ). By localizing the water-soluble capsule ( 31 ) on the carrier ( 33 ) external influences of the body ( 34 ), which lead to premature release, minimized. Upon contact with water, the sleeve comes loose ( 31 ), wherein the contents are released, with subsequent dissolution of the localization sleeve ( 32 ).

In 3b a capsule is shown, which can be made of water-soluble packaging material, which is adapted by means of elastically deformable wing ( 36 ), thereby localizing a capsule in one position and possibly interfering with external influences within the site.

In the 4a to 4c are shown configurations of a packaging made of packaging material ( 41 ) with a soluble seal or fold ( 42 ) is constructed. The package may be constructed by means including flow wrapping or extrusion to form a seamed tube or a seamless subdivided tube through seams along the length, as in the 4b (i) and 4b (ii) shown to form. In the 5a and 5b Clustering elements are shown comprising water-soluble packaging material ( 52 ) according to the invention and a water-soluble package in the form of capsules as clusters (clustered water-soluble packaging in the form of capsules) ( 51 ). Upon contact with water, the clustered capsules rapidly dissolve to release their contents upon subsequent disintegration of the clustering element, which serves to assist withstanding external influences leading to premature release from contact with water.

Claims (29)

A controlled release package comprising packaging material which is substantially completely dispersible or soluble in an effective amount of a water-containing substance and which is adapted to contain or contain one or more substances, the package for releasing contained or entrapped substances in response is adapted to a predetermined stimulus in a predetermined manner to a desired location with substantially simultaneous or subsequent, partial or complete dispersion or dissolution of the substances, the packaging comprising: at least one primary and secondary component for dissolving and releasing the substance adapted to the desired location in a manner which provides for release at a predetermined timing and in a predetermined manner, the at least primary and secondary components comprising areas of multilayer structures ( 11a . 11e ) and single layer structures ( 11b . 11d ) and one of the primary component or the secondary component vulnerabilities ( 12 ) in the form of packaging material formulated for rapid or slow dissolution or breaking or of defects or water carrying elements such as shaping or embossing in the form of non-penetrating perforations to initiate the dissolution of the package. A package according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material comprises a central monolayer of fast dissolving packaging material ( 11b ) and peripheral double layers of packaging material with fast-slow and slow-fast resolution, which is adapted to a weak connection or a weak point ( 12 ). Packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material is central ( 11b ) and peripheral ( 11d ) Monolayers of packaging material with fast resolution or slow resolution as well as a peripheral double layer ( 11e ) of packaging material with fast-slow resolution. Packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material comprises peripheral sleeves ( 11d ) shrunk by, for example, shaping or molding substance, and secondary weak points in the form of a slightly dissolving region (FIG. 12 ) with an area adapted to peel off when swelling, in the form of an unsealed joint of the two peripheral sleeves ( 11d ) having. A package according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material is a high resolution peripheral monolayer sleeve ( 11f ), which includes a substance, and an inner secondary peripheral sleeve ( 11d ) attached to the distal peripheral sleeve ( 11d ) the package is jarred or overlapped, with rapid release of a substance via the sleeve ( 11f ) with rapid dissolution and subsequent release of the second substance by slowly dissolving the package ( 11d ). Packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material is in the form of a primary immersion packaging or packaging ( 14 ), which are filled and with a separate cover part ( 15 ) or by self-sealing by fold ( 16 ), the fold providing a secondary weak point portion adapted for rapid dissolution in water with release of the contents of the package with subsequent dissolution of the package. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 6, wherein the substance to be released in the form of a solid or a liquid and preferably from powders, granules, crystals, microcapsules, monolithic forms, suspensions, dispersions, concentrates, Gels, thixotropic, non-aqueous solutions and the like, and mixtures thereof in a desired Quality or a desired one Range of qualities is selected. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 7, which is substantially completely soluble. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 8, dispersible in water-containing substance or soluble is a solid, a semi-solid substance, a liquid or a gaseous (vaporous) liquid comprises the water in effective dispersing or dissolving amount which may be bound chemically or physically releasably may or freely accessible can be and be accumulated or accumulated by the substance or easily and immediately absorbed by the packaging material can be. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 9, the release in response to a predetermined Stimulus is adapted to a chemical or physical Stimulus for dissolving or Dispersing, converting by precipitation or morphology changes, Breaking, tearing or through other permeability the packaging or a part thereof for release or entrapped substance. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 10, wherein the stimulus is the water-containing substance or different from it, the water-containing substance for dispersing or dissolving serves, with materials in hotter or cold, water-containing substance are dispersible or soluble and / or by dissolution or by other physical or chemical measures such as Action of heat, Acid or Base, solvents and solvent mixtures, oxidizing conditions, radiant energy, including UV, Microwaves and the like or biological degrading substance can release. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 11 for release of substance at a site containing a Space, an area or the like, in or at which the release of the Substance desired and which can be the same as a place where the substance a desired one Effect, or may differ from this location, however connected with this. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 12, wherein water-dispersible or -soluble packaging material a natural one or synthetic polymer or mixtures thereof, comprising Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethylene oxide, chemically modified Cellulose or cellulose ethers and other cellulose derivatives Strengthen, Polyvinylpyrollidone, polyacrylamide or gelatin or derivatives selected from it are. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 13 in the form of solid or hollow masses, hollow containers or Containment agents such as capsules or sachets or spherical, pyramidal, oblong, circular or conical bags and the like or containment means such as membranes, Subdivisions, covers, flaps and the like. Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 14, comprising means ( 36 ) for localization or positioning within the site at which a contained substance is to be released, in a manner appropriate to the site for storage or timing or activation of the release stimulus, for example, for the action of dissolving water at the site attached to the release element or holds the package in the desired position in a manner that withstands influences such as impact force during handling and storage. Packaging according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the localization means ( 36 ) comprise an elongated, substantially elastic or flexible part adapted to be connected to or hooked on a suitable attachment or to be located thereabout or received in a recess of an effective support in the environment, in which the package, or may include elastically deformable lugs extending in opposite directions from the packaging material as hereinbefore defined and adapted to deform under localization between opposing holding means, surfaces and the like of an effective carrier to be held and by elasticity. Packaging according to one the claims 1 to 16, which is a conformation, configuration or formulation which is adapted to external influences to which the packaging is subjected can be included and those contained in a premature release or entrapped substance absorb or break down. Packaging according to one the claims 1-17, comprising means for enhancing their response to a Release stimulus due to a formulation or due to additional Components that are incorporated in the packaging or in this are selected from means adapted to release by extension to cause contact with substances containing water, For example, comprising swelling or expanding agents, foaming agents, disintegrating agents, Dispersant or gases contained, eg. Air at a positive pressure and the like, stimulus sensitizers, for example a release on a change in pH, a change temperature, exposure to microwaves, UV radiation, solvents and solvent mixtures and to cause the like. Method for producing a package for controlled Release comprising forming a package from a packaging material, as defined hereinbefore in any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising forming packaging material and inserting one or more substances to be released in such a way that these are contained or included therein. Method according to claim 19, wherein the molding of packaging materials is selected from a residue-free Sealing one or more slides, deforming one or more more films through the action of heat, solvents such as water, vacuum, Printing and the like, extruding, shaping from solution or Melting, for example, by dipping or spraying on a former, pouring and Shape. Method according to one the claims 19 and 20, wherein the substance (s) by mechanical or chemical activities may be contained in the packaging material or incorporated therein can be taking the action selected are from a simultaneous molding of the material and the substance by sealing, blending or mixing to a molten one Packaging material or a solution thereof or sealing the packaging material around the substance (s) by softening the packaging material with water or a sensitizer and independent Binding to non-softened or similar softened packaging material, bonding or welding with Solvent, Glue and the like with or without application of heat or pressure, Contacting edges of the packaging material with a melting point-lowering sealing liquid like organic solvents, Water, a polymer solution or emulsion, a solution a proteolytic enzyme producing a protein solution and the like, and applying thermal energy or the like, to make a merge. Method according to one the claims 19 to 21, wherein the package contains an identification element, the For example, imprinted, shaped, embossed or marked by laser may be to the nature or origin of the ingredients or to indicate the type of use or to incorporate design features. Method according to one the claims 19 to 22, wherein the packaging or the substance containing should be, an additional Indicator includes, for example, a component that indicates when the resolution Completely or when the substance has achieved its desired effect. Method for the controlled release of a substance, as defined hereinbefore, which is a water-dispersible or -soluble Packaging as defined hereinbefore, comprising locating the package at a location for intended Release and the action of a release stimulus, for example, a In contact with water-containing substance in an effective dispersing or dissolving amount, for one effective time to release as hereinbefore defined defined, activate and release the substance in the place, the packaging being essentially or subsequently substantially Completely dissolved in the water-containing substance. Method according to claim 24 for the release of agrochemicals, including growth control agents for pests or plants, Control means for Plant diseases, soil conditioners and the like, for agricultural, Hothouse, horticultural, forestry applications and the like in industrial or domestic scale by spraying, spraying, drilling and such techniques. A method according to claim 24 for releasing environmental treatment agents such as water purifiers, disinfectants, waste treatment agents and the like, including control agents for water-borne viruses, bacteria, organisms and insects carrying disease, natural and industrial contaminants, including waterborne plant growth control agents, soil drainage dispersants, cooling water and recycled water neutralizers, and the like. Method according to claim 24 for handling and release until the time of use safe substances to be stored, for example dangerous ones Substances, including caustic ones Substances, chemical reagents, drain cleaners and the like, in diluted Shape can be used which, although unpleasant, are in powdery, non-aqueous or concentrated form, which, however, become dangerous in solution. Method according to claim 24 for the release of detergents or other cleaning agents in the form of solids or liquids, for example concentrates, including Home and industrial detergents for cleaning buildings, objects and objects Clothing and body care using known detergents or cleaning agents. Method according to claim 24 for the release of food components, including odor and flavorings in the form of dried or powdered solids, liquids and fleeting Fabrics, texturizers, colorants, moisture absorbers like rice, cornmeal, salt and the packaging material itself, oils and Fats, dried dairy products and other food products that deteriorate in the presence of oxygen, condiments and herbs and the same.