METHODS FOR IMPROVING THE AMINO ACID CONTENT OF ANIMAL FEED PRODUCTS

Abstract

Methods for improving the amino acid content of animal feed products. The present invention relates to compositions and methods for improving the amino acid content of animal feed by-products from a dry-milled ethanol production plant by reducing the amount of residual reducing sugars that may participate, for example, in the Maillard reaction.

Description

1 / 50 “MULTI-LAYERED ARTICLE THAT INCLUDES AN INACTIVE STATE AND AN ACTIVE STATE” Cross-reference to related requests.

[001] This application claims the benefit of priority under U.S. Application No. 16 / 431,598, filed June 4, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. REFERENCE ON RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT SPONSORED BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Not applicable SEQUENCE LISTING Not applicable BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

[002] The present invention relates generally to passive volatile material dispensers and, more particularly, to a multilayer film dispenser configured to passively release a volatile material, such as an insecticide, a fragrance, or any other volatile material. 2. Description of the Background of the Invention

[003] Several volatile material dispensing devices known in the art generally include a reservoir containing a volatile material, as well as a housing or support structure that retains the reservoir. Such devices typically either allow passive diffusion of the volatile material to occur without the aid of a dispensing mechanism, or enhance and / or facilitate the release of the volatile material using a dispensing mechanism. For example, typical dispensing mechanisms used in volatile material dispensing devices include a heating device and / or a fan. Such passive dispensers may often require that such devices Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 10 / 122 2 / 50 mechanisms or other costly materials lead to more expensive dispensers.

[004] In some cases, dispensers may be provided as a sheet or film, and may include a plurality of layers, one of which may be exposed to a surrounding environment and as a result emanate a quantity of volatile material from it. However, such previous passive dispensers also have common drawbacks. One of them is that many films or sheets used to dispense a volatile are fragile structures susceptible to curling or tearing during opening or use, and some film dispensers that are devoid of necessary stability or strength may need support structures or frames to prevent the films from curling or tearing during use. For example, in high humidity conditions, e.g., above 80% humidity, some film dispensers may absorb moisture and begin to curl upon themselves.

[005] Furthermore, the delivery of a volatile material or composition from a dispenser reservoir can be complicated by one or more factors. For example, many dispensing devices that passively release a volatile material are thin films having fragile structures that are susceptible to tearing, as discussed above. And, by virtue of the weak nature of said thin films, many of said dispensing devices can roll up upon themselves, which at least partially blocks the release of a volatile material from them. Additionally, as noted above, many dispensing devices are typically used in areas having high temperatures, frequently in excess of 20 degrees Celsius, and high humidity, frequently in excess of 80% humidity.Under such conditions, many of the aforementioned dispensing devices may absorb moisture and, as a result, the dispensing devices may be even more susceptible to warping and / or tearing, thereby preventing the dispensing devices from properly emitting volatile material from them. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 11 / 122 3 / 50 of the same.

[006] Furthermore, many typical dispensers have sealing layers that can be peeled off at a desired time before use. However, these seals are typically ineffective, and as a result, the volatile material stored within them is leached out, shortening the product's shelf life. For example, in some cases, high temperatures can cause instability within the film or foil, which degrades the film's seal and, as a result, releases volatile material stored within it.

[007] What is needed is a dispenser that preferably overcomes one or more of the aforementioned drawbacks. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[008] In one aspect, a multilayered article is provided. The multilayered article includes a first inactive state and a second active state. Additionally, the multilayered article includes an outer layer having a first side and a second side, an inner layer adjacent to at least a portion of the outer layer and including a volatile material, and an upper layer including a first side and a second side, the first side of the upper layer being adjacent to at least a portion of the inner layer. The multilayered article is also folded upon itself in the first inactive state so that at least a first portion of the second side of the upper layer is disposed upon an upper portion of a second side of the upper layer, and the first portion and the second portion of the upper layer are heat-sealed in the inactive state.

[009] In some embodiments, the outer layer may include high-density polyethylene, the inner layer may include nylon, and the top layer may include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) with polyolefin. In further embodiments, the volatile material may comprise an active agent and a Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 12 / 122 4 / 50 solvent. The active agent may be transfluthrin and the solvent may be dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether, for example. Additionally, the multilayer article may be initially dosed with approximately 110 mg of the active agent, and when in an inactive state, the multilayer article may retain at least approximately 85% of the initial dosage of the active agent after two months or 60 days. In certain aspects, when the multilayer article is in the active state, the multilayer article may emit the active agent at an emanation rate of between approximately 1 mg / day and 4 mg / day. The multilayer article may also have a peel resistance, which may be characterized by an average load resistance capable of separating a heat seal between the first and second portions of the top layer. In these embodiments, the peel resistance may vary between approximately 2 N and approximately 50 N.Additionally, the active agent and the inner layer of the multilayer article may have a relative energy difference (or RED value) between approximately 0.5 and 15.

[010] In further aspects, another multilayer article is provided which includes a first inactive state and a second active state. Additionally, the multilayer article includes an outer layer, an inner layer, and a top layer. The outer layer is formed from a highly crystalline polymeric structure and has a first side and a second side. The inner layer is adjacent to at least a portion of the outer layer and includes a material selected from the group consisting of a polyethylene (linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a high-density polyethylene (HDPE), etc.), a polyvinyl alcohol, a polypropylene, an ethylene vinyl acetate, and an ethylene vinyl alcohol.The top layer is adjacent to at least a portion of the inner layer and includes a material selected from the group consisting of an ethylene vinyl acetate, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, a polyester, a nylon, or a copolymer of. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 13 / 122 5 / 50 butylene. Additionally, the top layer includes a first side and a second side, the first side of the top layer being adjacent to at least a portion of the inner layer, and the multilayered article is folded upon itself in the first non-active state so that at least a first portion of the second side of the top layer is disposed upon an upper portion of a second portion of the second side of the top layer. Furthermore, the first portion and the second portion of the top layer are heat-sealed in the non-active state, and the inner layer comprises a volatile material therein.

[011] In further embodiments, a method of producing a multilayer article may be provided. The method includes the steps of extruding an outer layer having a first side and a second side, extruding an inner layer adjacent to at least a portion of the extruded outer layer, extruding a top layer adjacent to at least a portion of the extruded inner layer, dosing at least the inner layer with a volatile material, folding a first side of the dispensing device over a second side of the dispensing device, and applying heat to the multilayer article to hermetically seal a first portion of the top layer to at least a second portion of the top layer.

[012] The above and other aspects and advantages of the description will appear from the description below. In the description, reference is made to the attached drawings, which form part of this document and in which a preferred configuration of the description is shown by way of illustration. This configuration does not necessarily represent the complete scope of the description, however, and reference is therefore made to the claims in this document to interpret the scope of the description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[013] The present invention will be better understood and features, aspects and advantages different from those set forth above will become Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 14 / 122 6 / 50 evident when consideration is given to the detailed description thereof below. Such detailed description refers to the following drawings.

[014] Figure 1 is a front elevation view of a first embodiment of a dispensing device in a first state;

[015] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of Figure 1, taken along lines 2-2 thereof;

[016] Figure 3 is a front elevation view of the dispensing device of Figure 1 in a second, intermediate state;

[017] Figure 4 is an isometric view of the dispensing device of Figure 1 in a third state;

[018] Figure 5 is a front elevation view of the dispensing device of Figure 4;

[019] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of Figure 5, taken along lines 6-6 of the same;

[020] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the dispensing device of Figure 1 in a third state, according to a second aspect;

[021] Figure 8 is an enlarged fragmented isometric view of the dispensing device of Figure 7;

[022] Figure 9 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of a dispensing device in a first state;

[023] Figure 10 is a fragmented cross-sectional view of the dispensing device of Figure 9, taken along lines 10-10 thereof;

[024] Figure 11 is an isometric view of the dispensing device of Figure 9 in a second state;

[025] Figure 12 is a front elevation view of the dispensing device of Figure 11;

[026] Figure 13 is a fragmented cross-sectional view of Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 15 / 122 7 / 50 dispensing device of Figure 12, taken along lines 13-13 of the same;

[027] Figure 14 is an isometric view of the dispensing device of Figure 9 in a third state, according to a second aspect;

[028] Figure 15 is a flowchart for an example of the methodology used to produce the dispensing device of Figures 1-8 or the dispensing device of Figures 9-14;

[029] Figure 16 is a front elevation view of a surface-mounted dispensing device;

[030] Figure 17 is a front elevation view of a dispensing device suspended from the surface;

[031] Figure 18 is a front elevation view of a surface-mounted dispensing device;

[032] Figure 19 is a front elevation view of a dispenser that includes a plurality of dispensing devices;

[033] Figure 20 is a front, top, right isometric view of a second embodiment of a dispenser that includes a plurality of dispensing devices;

[034] Figure 21 is a graph illustrating the stability of a volatile material within a plurality of dispensing devices having a variety of films at a loading level of 55 mg of an active agent;

[035] Figure 22 is another graph that illustrates the stability of a volatile material within a dispensing device having a loading level of 110 mg of an active agent;

[036] Figure 23 is yet another graph illustrating the stability of a volatile material within a dispensing device at a loading level of 110 mg of an active agent;

[037] Figure 24 is a graph illustrating the emanation rate of a Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 16 / 122 8 / 50 volatile material from the dispensing device of Figure 22 at a loading level of 110 mg of an active agent; and

[038] Figure 25 is a graph illustrating the emanation rate of a volatile material from a dispensing device having a low loading level of 55 mg of an active agent.

[039] Before the embodiments of the description are explained in detail, it should be understood that the description is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangement set out in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The description is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or performed in various ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used in this document are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. The use of including and comprising and variations thereof is intended to encompass the items listed below and their equivalents, as well as additional and equivalent items. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[040] The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the present invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles in this document can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the embodiments of the present invention. Thus, the embodiments of the present invention are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but should have the broadest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The detailed description that follows should be read with reference to the Figures. The Figures, which are not necessarily to scale, represent selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Those skilled in the art may also recognize that the examples provided in this document have many Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 17 / 122 9 / 50 useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[041] In many cases, it may be useful to provide a vapor dispensing device for the passive or active emission of one or more volatiles into a surrounding atmosphere. In one example, it may be useful to emit a fragrance into a space such as a room or house to provide a pleasant aroma, or in another example, it may be useful to emit a pest control agent into the atmosphere to repel or eliminate pests such as mosquitoes, flies, moths, or other insects. In yet another example, it may be useful to emit a deodorant into an environment in order to neutralize a foul or similar odor. Consequently, many varieties and variations of vapor dispensing devices may include a reservoir containing a volatile composition.

[042] Certain embodiments of the present description provide a multilayered article comprising a first inactive state and a second active state, the multilayered article comprising an outer layer having a first side and a second side, an inner layer adjacent to at least a portion of the outer layer and comprising a volatile material, and an upper layer comprising a first side and a second side, the first side of the upper layer being adjacent to at least a portion of the inner layer. The multilayered article is folded upon itself in the first inactive state such that at least a first portion of the second side of the upper layer is disposed upon an upper portion of a second portion of the second side of the upper layer, and the first portion and the second portion of the upper layer are heat-sealed in the inactive state.

[043] With reference now to the drawings, Figures 1-6 illustrate a dispensing device 10 adapted for dispensing a volatile material. The dispensing device 10 may include a first, inactive, closed state (see Figure 1), Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 18 / 122 10 / 50 a second intermediate state (see Figure 3), and a third, active, open state (see Figures 4 and 5), and may generally include a multilayer film structure and a volatile material disposed in or within the multilayer film structure so that, during use, the dispensing device 10 is adapted to passively emit or dispense the volatile material for a desired amount of time. As will be further discussed in this document, the volatile material disposed in or within the dispensing device 10 may be any type of volatile material adapted to be dispensed into an environment.Non-limiting examples include an insecticide, a cleaner, an insect repellent, an insect attractant, a disinfectant, a mold or mildew inhibitor, a fragrance, a disinfectant, an air freshener, an aromatherapy scent, an odor eliminator, a volatile positive fragrance material, an air freshener, a disinfectant, or similar, or combinations thereof. In addition, additives may be included in the volatile material, such as fragrances and / or preservatives, for example.

[044] With particular reference to Figure 1, when in a closed state, the dispensing device 10 may include an outer layer 12 with an upper portion side 14 having an upper edge 16, a bottom side 18 having a lower edge 20, a left side 22 having a first lateral edge 24, and a right side 26 having a second lateral edge 28. Additionally, although the dispensing device 10 may in general be defined as rectangular in shape, other embodiments of the dispensing device 10 may be in a variety of shapes or forms, which include a square, a star, or a circle for example.

[045] In addition, in some embodiments, the dispensing device 10 may be provided with one or more additional dispensing devices. For example, as shown in Figure 19, a dispenser 30 may include four dispensing devices 10. In these embodiments, the dispensing device 10 may include one or more weakening areas or serrated sections 32, which allow Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 19 / 122 11 / 50 that the dispensing devices 10 are individually separable from the dispenser 30. In alternative embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 20, a dispenser 34 may include a reel 36 and a plurality of dispensing devices 10 wound on it. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 19, the dispenser 34 may include one or more weakening areas or serrated sections 38 between the dispensing devices 10 that allow the dispensing devices 10 to be individually separable from each other when desired or before use.

[046] As will be discussed further in this document, the dispensing device 10 can be constructed from one or more layers. In one embodiment, the structure of the dispensing device 10 may include a plurality of extruded layers that can be folded to produce an upper portion 40 and a lower portion 42 (see Figure 2) and, after folding the upper portion 40 over the lower portion 42, the upper portion 40 and the lower portion 42 can be joined together by a seal 44 (see Figure 1). In such embodiments, the upper portion 40 and the lower portion 42 can be mirror images of each other.For example, as will be further described in this document, an intermediate section of the dispensing device 10 can be bent along an axis to position the dispensing device 10 in a closed state such that the dispensing device 10 can include an upper portion 40 having an outer layer 46, an adhesive layer 48, an inner layer 50, and a sealing layer 52, and a lower portion 42 having an outer layer 46, an adhesive layer 48, an inner layer 50, and a sealing layer 52.

[047] The seal 44 may extend around an inner periphery of the dispensing device 10 and, in particular embodiments, may be a heat-sealable seal that eliminates the need for an adhesive that would otherwise be required to seal the dispensing device 10. In particular, the seal 44 may Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 20 / 122 12 / 50 extends around the dispensing device 10 and may be close to, and / or parallel to, the top edge 16, the bottom edge 20, the first side edge 24, and the second edge 28. In some embodiments, the seal 44 may only extend along the left side 22, the top side 14, and the right side 26 of the dispensing device 10, as will be further discussed in this document.

[048] As best shown in Figure 3, the dispensing device 10 can be opened by a user pulling the dispensing device 10 at corners 54, 56. In this embodiment, corners 54, 56 include sections with tabs 58, 60 that allow a user to apply a pulling force to corners 54, 56 and, as a result, allow corners 54, 56 to be easily separated to open the dispensing device 10. A user can continue to separate the dispensing device 10 until the dispensing device 10 is completely unfolded, as in Figures 4 and 5. When opening the dispensing device 10, an interior 62 of the dispensing device 10 can be exposed and, as will be discussed here, a volatile material can emanate from it.

[049] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the dispensing device 10 according to a second aspect of the present embodiment. In this particular aspect, a mounting element 64 can be fixed to the dispensing device 10 on a rear surface of the outer surface 46. For example, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the mounting element 64 can be fixed to the dispensing device 10 on a rear edge of the outer surface 46 near an upper edge 16 of the dispensing device 10.

[050] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the mounting element 64 may be a double-sided tape 66 having first and second adhesive sides 68, 70, the first adhesive side 68 being adhered to the outer surface 46 of the dispensing device 10 and a second adhesive side 70 being adhered to the surface (not shown), which will be further discussed in this document. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 21 / 122 13 / 50 Examples of embodiments of an assembly element 64 that can be used with the dispensing device 10 are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0005504 A1, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[051] Such double-sided tapes are offered by Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Company (i.e., 3M), such as the 9415PC repositionable tape or the 9425PC tape from 3M. The first adhesive side 68 can remain firmly attached to the dispensing device 10 and the second adhesive side 70 can be attached to a variety of surfaces, such as windows, walls, doors, furniture or other surfaces. Although the dispensing device 10 can be attached to a surface using the mounting element 64, as shown in this embodiment, the dispensing device 10 can be attached to a surface using suitable alternative mounting or suspension means.

[052] The dispensing device 10 may also include a usage cue 72 (see Figure 8) that indicates to a user that the dispensing device 10 has volatilized all or nearly all of the volatile liquid from it. For example, the usage cue 72 may be a color-changing sticker, which may include a liner 74 that is removed by a user at the same time as the dispensing device 10 is opened or transitions between a non-active or active state. In this embodiment, when the liner 74 is removed, the usage cue 72 may display a first color, for example, red, and after a predetermined time, at or near the total volatilization of a volatile material from the dispensing device 10, the usage cue 72 changes to a second color, for example, green, indicating to a user that the useful life of the dispensing device 10 has expired.Suggestion for use 72 may also incorporate text, such as the word "discard" which would appear after a predetermined period of time, and the text signals to the user that the lifespan of the dispensing device 10 has expired. Stickers employing this general type of color-changing technology are offered by Temtec, a division of Brady Worldwide. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 22 / 122 14 / 50 Suffern, New York, 10901, USA, and may be marketed under the TEMPbadge® trademark.

[053] Although a color-changing sticker may be used as the usage suggestion 72, any other suitable form of usage suggestion or indicator may be used. For example, the volatile liquid may incorporate a fragrance, such as a floral or citrus scent, which becomes less odorous over time. At or near total volatilization, the fragrance is not detectable by the average user, signaling the need to replace the dispensing device 10. The liner 74 may also be used to line the double-sided tape 66 and peeling off the liner 74 may expose the second adhesive side 70.

[054] Returning to Figures 9-13, in a second embodiment, a dispensing device 110 may include a closed state (see Figure 9) and an open state (see Figures 11 and 12). Similar to dispensing device 10, dispensing device 110 generally includes a multilayer film structure and a volatile material disposed in or within the multilayer film structure such that, during use, dispensing device 110 can be adapted to passively emanate or dispense the volatile material from it for a desired amount of time.

[055] With reference to Figures 9-13, when in a closed state, the dispensing device 110 may include an outer layer 112 with an upper portion side 114 having an upper edge 116, a bottom side 118 having a lower edge 120, a left side 122 having a first lateral edge 124, and a right side 126 having a second lateral edge 128. Additionally, in this embodiment, the structure of the dispensing device 110 is formed from an upper portion 130 having an outer layer 132, an adhesive layer 134, an inner layer 136, and a sealing layer 138, and a lower portion 140 having the outer layer 132, the adhesive layer 134, the inner layer 136, and the sealing layer 138. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 23 / 122 15 / 50 seal 138. However, in this particular embodiment, the sealing layer 138 is placed on top of and close to an outer periphery of the inner layer 136.

[056] As will be discussed further in this document, the dispensing device 110 can be constructed from one or more layers. In one embodiment, the structure of the dispensing device 110 may include a plurality of extruded layers that can be folded to produce the upper portion 130 and the lower portion 140 (see Figure 10) and, after folding the upper portion 130 over the lower portion 140, the upper portion 130 and the lower portion 140 can be joined together by a seal 142 (see Figure 9). In such embodiments, the upper portion 130 and the lower portion 140 can be mirror images of each other.For example, as will be further described in this document, the middle section of the dispensing device 110 can be bent along an axis to position the dispensing device 110 in a closed state so that the dispensing device 110 can include the upper portion 130 having the outer layer 132, the adhesive layer 134, the inner layer 136, and the sealing layer 138, and the lower portion 140 having the outer layer 132, the adhesive layer 134, the inner layer 136, and the sealing layer 138.

[057] The seal 142 may extend around an inner periphery of the dispensing device 110 and, in particular embodiments, may be a heat-sealable seal that eliminates the need for an adhesive that would otherwise be required to seal the dispensing device 110. More particularly, the seal 142 may extend only along the left edge 122, the top side 114, and the right side 125 of the dispensing device 110 when the dispensing device 110 is in a closed state. Similarly, the sealing layer 138 may extend only along the left edge 122, the top side 114, and the right side 125 of the dispensing device 110 when the dispensing device is in a closed state. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 24 / 122 16 / 50

[058] Figure 14 illustrates the dispensing device 110 according to a second aspect of the present embodiment. In this particular aspect, similar to the dispensing device 10 illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, a mounting element 144 can be attached to the dispensing device 110 on a rear surface of the outer layer 132. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the mounting element 144 can be attached to the dispensing device 110 on a rear edge of the outer layer 132 near an upper edge 116 of the dispensing device 110. Additionally, similar to the dispensing device 10 illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the mounting element 144 can be a double-sided tape having first and second adhesive sides, the first adhesive side being adhered to the outer layer 132 of the dispensing device 110 and a second adhesive side being adhered to the surface, as previously discussed in this document.As also previously discussed in this document, examples of embodiments of the mounting elements 62, 144 that can be used with the dispensing devices 10, 110 are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0005504 A1, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference in this document. Outer layer

[059] The outer layer 46, 132 can be formed using one or more materials to provide sufficient support and strength to the dispensing device 10, 110. Furthermore, the materials used to form the outer layer 46, 132 can provide the dispensing device 10, 110 with high tensile strength that prevents the dispensing device 10, 110 from warping or tearing, whether in the inactive, closed state or the active, open state. Additionally, the outer layer 46, 132 can be formed from one or more materials that are impermeable to volatile material positioned within the dispensing device 10, 110. The outer layer 46, 132 can also be printed or colored to enhance the aesthetics of the dispensing device 10, 110. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 25 / 122 17 / 50

[060] In some embodiments, the outer layer 46, 132 may include one or more layers. For example, the outer layer 46, 132 may be homogeneous, i.e., a single layer, or a composite material comprising a mixture of one or more materials and / or one or more layers. The outer layer 46, 132 may be formed to provide the dispensing device 10, 110 with the desired or necessary structural integrity, and the one or more materials of the outer layer 46, 132 may be selected to provide mechanical stability to the dispensing device 10, 110 or mechanical stability to one or more additional layers or components of the dispensing device 10, 110, for example, the inner layer 50, 136, the sealing layer 52, 138, the adhesive layer 48, 134, and / or the volatile material. Factors that may influence the selection of materials for the outer layer 46, 132 may include mechanical, chemical or thermal properties of one or more of the outer layer materials 46, 132.As will be further discussed in this document, the dispensing device 10, 110 can be suspended or fixed to the surface using one or more contact points and, as such, it is desired that the outer layer 46, 132 provide ample mechanical support to the dispensing device 10, 110 when suspended or fixed to the surface.

[061] The outer layer 46, 132, and one or more materials thereof, have high mechanical stability and high mechanical strength under conditions of high humidity and high temperatures. In one aspect, one or more materials of the outer layer 46, 132 can be characterized by a stiffness value, such as a tensile modulus, a Young's modulus, or a modulus of elasticity. For example, a material of the outer layer 46, 132 may have a Young's modulus of elasticity ranging from about 0.5 GPa to about 5 GPa, or from about 0.8 GPa to about 3 GPa, or from about 1 GPa to about 2.5 GPa.

[062] Surface characteristics can also contribute to the selection of material(s) for the outer layer 46, 132. For example, polarity or Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 26 / 122 18 / 50 The surface roughness of the outer layer 46, 132 may contribute to the effectiveness of the outer layer 46, 132 in bonding with, adhering to, or otherwise coupling with other layers of the dispensing device 10, 110, such as the inner layer 50, 136. Additional characteristics of the outer layer 46, 132 that may influence the adhesion of the outer layer 46, 132 to another layer, for example, the inner layer 50, 136, such as porosity, surface energy, and hydrophilicity.

[063] The outer layer 46, 132 may have a flow resistance that is higher than any other layer of the dispensing device 10, 110. Put differently, the outer layer 46, 132 may have a porosity that is lower than the porosity of the inner layer 50, 136 and / or the sealing layer 52, 138. For example, the outer layer 46, 132 may be a polymer-based material that is substantially closed or non-porous and, in particular, non-porous to the volatile material of the dispensing device 10, 110.

[064] The outer layer 46, 132 may be formed partially or entirely from a highly crystalline polymeric structure, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or a polyester (polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)), or engineered plastics that provide the dispensing device 10, 110 with greater rigidity, and more particularly, greater rigidity at high temperatures and high humidity. As a result, the outer layer 46, 132 can ensure that the dispensing device 10, 110 remains flat and not curled when in an open state, thus allowing volatile material to emanate continuously from it. Furthermore, the outer layer 46, 132 provides sufficient support to the dispensing device 10, 110, so that a secondary structure, for example, a frame, may not be necessary to keep the dispensing device 10, 110 open and ensure that the interior 62 is exposed to the environment.However, in some embodiments, a secondary structure may still be desired and may be included with the dispensing device 10, 110. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 27 / 122 19 / 50

[065] In further embodiments, the outer layer 46, 132 may include polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as an acetal, polyacetal, or polyformaldehyde, and / or a synthetic polymer, such as nylon, including nylon 66, nylon 6, nylon 11, nylon 46, nylon 510, or nylon 1,6. In further embodiments, the outer layer 46, 132 may include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), isotactic polypropylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene naphthalate copolymer (PET-PEN), polyvinyl chloride PVC or polyvinylidene chloride, PVDC, or metallized aluminum.

[066] The outer layer 46, 132 may be a relatively thin layer with a thickness ranging from about 10 pm (0.00001 m) to about 250 pm (0.00025 m). In other embodiments, the thickness of the outer layer 46, 132 may range from about 50 gm to about 100 gm, or from about 75 gm to about 90 gm. An outer layer 46, 132 having a thickness of at least 10 gm may be necessary to maintain the mechanical integrity of the outer layer 46, 132 and, as a result, the mechanical integrity of the dispensing device 10, 110. Inner layer

[067] The inner layer 50, 136 may be provided on top of the outer layer 46, 132 and may be adhered to it using the adhesive layer 48, 134, as will be further discussed in this document. The inner layer 50, 136 may also contain the volatile material therein and may be a reservoir in which the volatile material is stored. Additionally, the inner layer 50, 136 may include at least one or more materials that act as a barrier layer to the volatile material stored therein. That is, the inner layer 50, 136 may include at least one or more materials configured to limit the rate of mass transport of the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 28 / 122 20 / 50 For example, the inner layer 50, 136 can be the barrier layer formed by one or more materials that are permeable to the volatile material, thus limiting the rate of flow to the volatile material. In other words, the inner layer 50, 136 can be compatible with the volatile material so that the volatile material is readily stored within the inner layer 50, 136 when the dispensing device 10, 110 is in the non-active state, yet it also allows the emanation of the volatile material and, in particular, the emanation of the active agent within the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110 after the dispensing device 10, 110 undergoes a transition to the active state. As such, the inner layer 50, 136 can control the emanation rate or evaporation rate of volatile material from the inner layer 50, 136 and, as a result, the emanation rate or evaporation rate of volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110.

[068] As further discussed in this document, it has been surprisingly or unexpectedly determined that an optimal combination or selection of the inner layer 50, 136 and the sealing layer 52, 138 can provide a dispensing device 10, 110 with the ability to contain a high dosage of an active agent or a volatile material within the dispensing device 10, 110 in a stable environment, i.e., an environment that retains substantially all of an initial dosage of an active agent or volatile material in the dispensing device 10, 110 for an extended period of time (e.g., two or twelve weeks, and above) when in the inactive, closed state.In such embodiments, by virtue of the possibility of providing an initial dosage at a higher concentration and by virtue of the ability of the inner layer 50, 136 and the sealing layer 52, 138 to retain substantially all of the initial dosage of volatile material within the dispensing device 10, 110, the dispensing device 10, 110 may last for longer periods of time or may be able to release the active agent or volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 29 / 122 21 / 50 for periods of up to and exceeding 30 days, or one month, or for periods of up to and exceeding 60 days, or two months.

[069] In one aspect, the inner layer 50, 136 includes at least one material capable of storing the volatile material therein. For example, the inner layer 50, 136 may include one or more materials adapted to dissolve or partially dissolve the volatile material to be used with the dispensing device 10, 110, which will be discussed in further detail in this document. In particular embodiments, the solubility of a volatile material within one or more layers may be characterized by Hansen solubility parameters based on three Hansen parameters: the energy from dispersion forces between molecules (õd), the energy from dipolar intermolecular forces between molecules (õp), and the energy from hydrogen bonds between molecules (õh,).The aforementioned three parameters can be treated as coordinates for a point in three dimensions, also known as Hansen space, and the two closest molecules are in this three-dimensional space. The closer two molecules are in this three-dimensional space, the more likely it is that the two molecules will dissolve into each other. In order to calculate a distance (Ra) between the Hansen parameters in a Hansen space, the following formula can be used: (Ra)2= 4(òd2 - òdl)2+ (δρ2 - δρ1)2+ (δK2- δM)2(Eq. 1) where õd1 and õd2 are the dispersion parameters for the first and second molecules, respectively, õp1 and õp2 are the dipolar intermolecular force parameters for the first and second molecules, respectively, and õh1 and õh2 are the hydrogen bonding parameters for the first and second molecules, respectively.

[070] Considering the parameters of each molecule or component, a distance value (Ra) can be calculated, as well as a radius value (Rc), and a Relative Energy Difference (RED) value can be determined according to Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 30 / 122 22 / 50 to Equation 2: Frog RED = — Ro(Eq. 2)

[071] Based on Hansen solubility parameters and a relative energy difference, an ideal combination between one or more layers of the inner layer 50, 136 and the volatile material can be determined. For example, in some embodiments, one or more layers of the inner layer 50, 136, individually or in combination, and the volatile material may have a RED value of less than or equal to 1. In specific embodiments, one or more materials of the inner layer 50, 136, individually or in combination, and the volatile material or active agent within the volatile material may have a RED value greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 15, or greater than 20.

[072] In another embodiment, one or more layers of the inner layer 50, 136, individually or in combination, can be characterized by their Ra value. In some embodiments, one or more materials of the inner layer 50, 136, individually or in combination, and the volatile material or active agent within the volatile material can have an Ra value between 5 and 15, or between 6 and 14, or between 7 and 13, or between 8 and 12. For example, in a specific embodiment, a material of the inner layer 50, 136 can be ethylene vinyl acetate and the active agent of the volatile material can be transfluthrin. In this embodiment, ethylene vinyl acetate and transfluthrin can have an Ra value between about 8 and 9, or about 8.4. In another specific embodiment, an inner layer material 50, 136 may be polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and the active agent of the volatile material may be transfluthrin, and the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and transfluthrin may have an Ra value between about 11 and 13, or about 12.

[073] Examples of materials that are satisfactory for forming the inner layer 50, 136 include nylon or a nylon-based film, a polysulfone (PSU), a styrene-butadiene acrylonitrile (ABS), a styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), a polyethylene (PE), a poly(p-phenylene oxide) (PPO), a polybutylene terephthalate Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 31 / 122 23 / 50 (PBT), a polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a mylar, a polycarbonate (PC), a styrene-butadiene (SBR), a polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PETG), a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a polystyrene (PS), a polypropylene (PP), a polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a polyethylene terephthalate / polyethylene naphthalate copolymer (PET-PEN), an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), a poly(ether sulfones) (PES), an acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymer (e.g., Barex® 210), a high-density polyethylene (HDPE), an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), a polyacetal or a polyoxymethylene (POM), a polyethylene glycol (PEO), an ethylene(meth)acrylic acid (EAA, EMAA) (e.g., Surlyn®), a cellophane and / or polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and / or a combination or metallized form thereof.

[074] In one aspect, the inner layer 50, 136 can be formed from polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polypropylene (PP), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), such as an ethylene vinyl acetate resin under the registered name Elvax®, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and / or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or mixtures of said materials. The inner layer 50, 136 can be formed from EZ Peel® EVA or coextruded PE sealant.

[075] The inner layer 50, 136 may be a relatively thin layer with a thickness ranging from about 10 μm to about 250 μm, or between about 50 μm and about 100 μm, or between about 75 μm and about 90 μm. Sealing Layer

[076] The sealing layer 52, 138 may be provided in at least a portion of the inner layer 50, 136, as will be discussed further in this document, and may be formed of one or more materials that allow the dispensing device 10, 110 to be opened by peeling easily or opened by peeling with a low gripping resistance.

[077] Additionally, in one embodiment, the sealing layer 52, 138 may be formed by one or more materials that are impermeable to the material Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 32 / 122 24 / 50 volatile, or one or more materials that do not dissolve the volatile material in them. As such, the sealing layer 52, 138 may be formed by one or more materials that act as a barrier to the volatile material and prevent the emanation of the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110 in a non-active state. Additionally, the sealing layer 52, 138 may contain one or more materials capable of retaining a volatile material and may be configured to limit the rate of mass transport of the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110. In these embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 may also control the emanation rate or evaporation rate of the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110.

[078] In these embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 can also control the emanation rate or the evaporation rate of the volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110 and, similar to the inner layer 50, 136, the compatibility of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a volatile material stored therein can be characterized by Hansen solubility parameters, an Ra value, and a relative energy difference. For example, in some embodiments, one or more layers of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, and the volatile material or active agent thereof may have a RED value greater than or equal to 1. In some embodiments, one or more materials of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, may have a RED value greater than 1, greater than 2, or greater than 5. In such embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 is a material that does not dissolve the volatile material or active agent therein.As such, in the aforementioned particular embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 is not permeable to the volatile material and / or the active agent therein, and provides a seal that contains the volatile material and the active agent within the dispensing device 10, 110 during an inactive state.

[079] In other embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 may be formed by one or more materials that are permeable to volatile material, or one or Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 33 / 122 25 / 50 more materials that dissolve the volatile material in them. As such, in some respects, some materials of the sealing layer 52, 138 can act as a reservoir for a volatile material stored in them. In these embodiments, the compatibility of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a volatile material stored in them can be characterized by Hanson solubility parameters, an Ra value, and / or a relative energy difference. For example, in some embodiments, one or more layers of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, and the volatile material or active agent may have a RED value of less than or equal to 1. In some embodiments, one or more materials of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, may have a RED value of less than 1, or less than 0.90, or less than 0.80, or less than 0.70, or less than 0.60, or less than 0.50.

[080] Additionally, in some respects, a sealing layer material 52, 138 and the volatile material or active agent may have a RED value of less than 1, less than 0.90, less than 0.80, less than 0.70, less than 0.60, or less than 0.50. And another sealing layer material 52, 138 and the volatile material or active agent may have a RED value of greater than 1, greater than 2, greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 15, or greater than 20.

[081] In other embodiments, one or more layers of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, can be characterized by their Ra value. In some embodiments, one or more materials of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, and the volatile material or active agent within the volatile material can have an Ra value between 5 and 15, or between 6 and 14, or between 7 and 13, or between 8 and 12. For example, in a specific embodiment, a material of the sealing layer 52, 138 can be ethylene vinyl acetate and the active agent of the volatile material can be transfluthrin. In this embodiment, ethylene vinyl acetate and transfluthrin can have an Ra value between about 11 and 13, or about 12. Additionally, in this Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 34 / 122 In one embodiment, 26 / 50, ethylene vinyl acetate and transfluthrin may have a RED value between 2 and 3, or less than 5. In another specific embodiment, a sealing layer material 52, 138 may be polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and the active agent of the volatile material may be transfluthrin, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and transfluthrin may have an Ra value between about 11 and 13, or about 12.

[082] In further embodiments, which will be further discussed in this document, one or more materials of the sealing layer 52, 138 may be chosen to be capable of forming a heat-tight seal, such as seal 44. In particular embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 is composed of one or more materials capable of forming a heat-tight seal to a second layer of the dispensing device 10, 110 and, in particular, capable of forming a heat-tight seal to a second portion of the sealing layer 52, 138. The heat-tight seal, as described in this document, can provide the dispensing device 10, 110 with a sufficient seal capable of retaining one or more volatile materials stored therein. Furthermore, the heat-tight seal can eliminate the need for an additional adhesive or chemical bond typically required to seal a film-based material.

[083] Typically, materials capable of retaining an active agent or a volatile material, such as an insecticide, are unable to form a heat-tight seal that easily flakes off, or conversely, materials capable of forming sufficiently airtight seals should not adequately store or retain a volatile material. However, as shown here, the surprising discovery has been made that some materials capable of retaining volatile insecticides (e.g., transfluthrin or metofluthrin) can also form heat-tight seals that sufficiently retain volatile materials.

[084] In addition to being able to form a heat seal, the sealing layer 52, 138 may also be composed of one or more materials that are inactive Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 35 / 122 27 / 50 to volatile material and, in particular, one or more materials that are inactive to volatile material under conditions of high humidity, for example, conditions with a humidity greater than 80%, and high temperatures, for example, temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius, or 40 degrees Celsius, or 60 degrees Celsius.

[085] Other characteristics may also contribute to the selection of the material(s) for the sealing layer 52, 138. For example, peelability, or the ability of the sealing layer 52, 138 to be easily peeled off or separated from a second layer to which it is heat-sealed, may contribute to the selection of the material(s) used for the sealing layer. In general, the sealing layer 52, 138 may be formed from one or more materials that provide sufficient heat-sealing to retain an active agent or volatile material within the dispensing device 10, 110, while still being able to be opened using low grip resistance.As a result, the dispensing device 10, 110 can sufficiently retain the volatile material disposed of therein, as well as being less likely to tear or stretch during a transition between the non-operational or closed state, as shown in Figure 1, and the operational or open state, as shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, providing the dispensing device 10, 110 with a sealing layer 52, 138 that can be easily separated or opened eliminates the need for a secondary tool, for example, scissors, which might otherwise be required to open the dispensing device 10, 110.

[086] In one aspect, the peel resistance, or the bond resistance, between a first portion of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a secondary material (for example, a second portion of the sealing layer 52, 138) can be measured. This peel resistance can measure the adhesive bond strength between a first portion of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a secondary material, such as a second portion of the sealing layer 52, 138 or a Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 36 / 122 28 / 50 secondary layer, and can be defined by an average load per unit width of bond length required to separate the bonded materials (i.e., the first portion of the 52, 138 sealing layer and the secondary material). An example of a standardized test method that can be used to measure the average load strength, or the peeling or removal strength of an adhesive bond, is the active standard ASTM D-903, provided by ASTM International.

[087] In one aspect, the heat-tight seal is between a first portion of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a secondary material (e.g., a second portion of the sealing layer 52, 138) and may have a peel resistance, or average load resistance, between about 1 Newton (N) and about 100 N, between about 1 N and about 50 N, between about 2 N and about 20 N, or between about 2 N and about 10 N.

[088] Characteristics relevant to the stability of the sealing layer 52, 138 may also contribute to the selection of the material(s) used for the sealing layer, such as the chemical stability of the sealing layer 52, 138 when one or more active agents, solvents, or other liquids come into contact with the sealing layer material(s) 52, 138. For example, the sealing layer material(s) may be tested using a solvent resistance rubbing test that determines the degree of curing of the baked film by the film's resistance to a specified solvent. An example of a standardized test method that can be used to measure the ability of a layer (such as the sealing layer 52, 138) to rub after the application of a solvent is the active standard ASTM D-4752, provided by ASTM International.

[089] Suitable materials that can be used for the sealing layer 52, 138 include one or more films constructed from an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), a polyethylene, such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a high molecular weight low-density polyethylene, or a low-density polyethylene. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 37 / 122 29 / 50 linear density polyethylene (LLDPE), a polypropylene (PP), ethylene-butene copolymer, polybutene, butylene copolymers, an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), a polyester, a polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PETG), a polylactic acid (PLA), or a nylon. Combinations or mixtures (e.g., binary or ternary mixtures) of the above-mentioned materials may also be used, which may enhance the peelability of dispensing devices 10, 110. For example, mixtures that may be used for the sealing layer 52, 138 are EVA-LDPE, polybutene-EVA, polybutene-LDPE-EVA, etc.

[090] Other materials that may be suitable for use as the sealing layer 52, 138 include one or more polyethylene terephthalate film structures, such as transparent films under the registered names EZ Peel®, Mylar®, for example, Mylar® OL, LumiLid®, for example, LumiLid® XL 7, Lumirror®, Lumirror® XL 5, or Curlon®, all of which are or are supplied by DuPont, Toray Industries, Inc. or Bemis Company, Inc. In particular embodiments, the sealing layer 52, 138 may be CURLON® (Grade A9599) and W18-000832 offered by Bemis Company, Inc. Adhesive layer

[091] An adhesive layer 48, 134 may be applied or provided to at least a portion of the inner layer 50, 136 and / or the outer layer 46, 112, or between the inner layer 50, 136 and the outer layer 46, 112, to bond, adhere or otherwise couple the inner layer 50, 136 to the outer layer 46, 112. In certain respects, the adhesive layer 48, 134 is provided to enhance the adhesion between the inner layer 50, 136 and the outer layer 46, 112 and, as a result, to provide stability to the inner layer 50, 136 and the adhesive layer 52, 138 of the dispensing device 10, 110. The polymers that may be used in the adhesive layer 48, 134, or binding layer, may be an ethylene-based polymer, such as a ethylene copolymer with a polar comonomer or a Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 38 / 122 30 / 50 anhydride-modified ethylene vinyl acetate polymer, a low-density polyethylene, or an ethylene copolymer, or a linear low-density polyethylene.

[092] In one aspect, the adhesive layer 48, 134 may be a polymer offered commercially by DuPont under the registered name Bynel® and, in particular, may be a polymer having a higher amount of incorporated anhydride, such as the Bynel® Series 3800 resins and, more particularly, Bynel® 3860. Volatile material

[093] The dispensing device 10, 110 may include any suitable volatile material. In some embodiments, the volatile material may include an active agent, such as a fragrance, an insecticide, a deodorizer, a fungicide, a bactericide, a sanitizer, a pet barrier, or other volatile active or other compound disposed within a vehicle liquid, for example, an oil-based, organic-based, and / or water-based vehicle or solvent, a deodorizing liquid, or the like, and / or combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, the dispensing device 10, 110 includes an insect control agent, an insect repellent, or an insecticide. Examples of possible insecticides that may be suitable in the volatile material include pyrethroids such as metafluthrin, transfluthrin, tefluthrin, and vaporthrin, or natural actives (geraniol, etc.) or mixtures of said insecticides.

[094] Additional examples of an active agent that may be used in the volatile material may include RAID®, Pyrel®, POLIL®, AUTAN®, OUST™, or GLADE®, sold by SC Johnson & Son, Inc., of Racine, Wisconsin. The volatile material may also comprise other actives, such as disinfectants, air and / or fabric fresheners, cleaning products, odor eliminators, mold or mildew inhibitors, insect repellents and the like, or others having aromatherapy properties. Alternatively, the volatile material comprises any fluid known to those skilled in the art that can be dispensed from a Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 39 / 122 31 / 50 container, such as those suitable for dispersion in the form of particles or droplets suspended within a gas and / or propelled by means of a propellant.

[095] In one example, a volatile material may be formed, dispensed into (e.g., with a propellant), or otherwise provided in one or more layers or reservoirs within the dispensing device 10, 110 such that when the dispensing device 10, 110 is in a closed state, the volatile material is substantially dormant, inactive, or non-volatile. However, upon opening the dispensing device 10, 110, the volatile material may vaporize or may emanate from the dispensing device at a controlled release rate.

[096] In some embodiments, the active agent, such as transfluthrin, may be present in the volatile material in an amount between about 5% by weight and about 95% by weight, about 60% by weight and about 90% by weight, or between about 70% by weight and about 85% by weight, or even more specifically, between about 75% by weight and about 85% by weight. In a particular embodiment, the insect control agent may be about 80% by weight of the volatile material and, in a preferred embodiment, transfluthrin may be about 80% by weight of the volatile material.

[097] The volatile material may also comprise liquids, solids or vapors. In one aspect, the volatile material may include one or more solvents, such as an organic or aqueous solution, in which the insect control agent may be dissolved. For example, in certain aspects, the active agent may be in a solid state at room temperature and a solvent may be added to the active agent in order to provide and maintain the volatile material in a liquid state, thus enabling the volatile material to spread, be coated and positioned within the dispensing device 10, 110 and one or more layers thereof, for example, the inner layer 50, 136 and / or the sealing layer 52, 138. Furthermore, the volatile material may be supplied in a medium such that its formulation spreads and coats the Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 40 / 122 32 / 50 layers of the dispensing device, 10, 110 instantly or within 24 hours from the initial dose.

[098] In particular embodiments, the volatile material may contain an organic solvent, such as a hydrocarbon solvent, a glycol ether, a propylene oxide-based solvent and / or synthetic isoparaffins. For example, suitable organic solutions that can be used as a solvent for the volatile material include glycol ethers, including dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether marketed as DOW-ANOL® DPnB solvent, Tripropylene Glycol Methyl Ether marketed as DOWANOL® TPM solvent, and dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether marketed as PROGLYDE™ DMM solvent, all of which are available from Dow Chemical Company. Additional examples of solvents that can be used on volatile material are synthetic isoparaffins under the registered name Isopar™, which include but are not limited to Isopar™ C, Isopar™ E, Isopar™ G, Isopar™ H, Isopar™ K, Isopar™ L, Isopar™ M, and Isopar™ V, which are offered by Exxon-Mobil Chemical Company.

[099] One criterion for selecting the solvent is surface tension, evaporation rate, and chemical compatibility with the overlying portion 40, 130. For example, the surface tension of DMM (26.3 dynes) when added to transfluthrin (surface tension 44 dynes) results in a lower formula surface than the active alone, thus allowing the active to spread on the surface in multiple layers and ensure coverage across the entire surface area of ​​the dispensing device 10, 110. Another role for the solvent is to reduce the viscosity of the active agent to facilitate processing, and chemical compatibility with the adhesive and other components of the dispensing device 10, 110. Furthermore, it has also been found that glycol ethers, for example, DMM, suppress the recrystallization of actives that are solid at room temperature, for example, Transfluthrin (TFT). And this suppression of crystallization keeps the active in solution and improves the aesthetics of the device. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 41 / 122 33 / 50 of dispensing 10, 110.

[0100] The volatile material may include a solvent, which may be present in the volatile material in an amount between 10% by weight and about 30% by weight, or between about 15% by weight and about 25% by weight, and in a particular embodiment, 20% by weight. In one aspect, the volatile material includes about 20% by weight of dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether.

[0101] As discussed in this document, in certain aspects, the volatile material can be stabilized within the dispensing device 10, 110 when the dispensing device 10, 110 is in a closed, non-operational state, such as that shown in Figure 1. For example, in some embodiments, the dispensing device 10, 110 can retain an initial dosage applied to the dispensing device 10, 110 for a fixed time, such as six hours, twelve hours, one day, two days, three days, four days, five days, six days, one week, ten days, two weeks, fifteen days, twenty days, three weeks, twenty-five days, four weeks, thirty days, five weeks, forty days, six weeks, forty-five days, seven weeks, fifty days, fifty-five days, eight weeks, and the like.In some embodiments, when in a closed, non-operative, and sealed state, the dispensing device 10, 110 can retain at least about 70% of the volatile material disposed therein, for example. In preferred embodiments, when in a closed, non-operative, and sealed state, the dispensing device 10, 110 can retain at least about 85% of the volatile material disposed therein, at least about 90% of the volatile material disposed therein, at least about 95% of the volatile material disposed therein, or at least about 98% of the volatile material disposed therein for a fixed time. In these preferred embodiments, the fixed time can be about 2 weeks, about 4 weeks, about 12 weeks, or a fixed time greater than 12 weeks.

[0102] In other respects, the dispensing device 10, 110 may Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 42 / 122 34 / 50 provide delivery of volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110 at an initial delivery rate that is measured within one hour of exposure of the volatile material and the dispensing device 10, 110 to the atmosphere. The dispensing device 10, 110 may provide delivery of volatile material through, or from, the inner layer 50, 136 at a subsequent delivery rate that is measured at a fixed time after exposure of the volatile material and the interior 62 of the dispensing device to the atmosphere. The fixed time may be any length of time in which the vapor dispensing device is desired to provide delivery of the volatile composition.For example, the fixed time could be six hours, twelve hours, one day, two days, three days, four days, five days, six days, one week, ten days, two weeks, fifteen days, twenty days, three weeks, twenty-five days, four weeks, thirty days, five weeks, forty days, six weeks, forty-five days, seven weeks, fifty days, fifty-five days, eight weeks, and so on.

[0103] In certain aspects, the particular surface area and concentration of the dispensing device formulation 10, 110 may be designed to deliver between about 0.1 mg / day and about 10 mg / day of the active agent or volatile material, between about 1 mg / day and about 5 mg / day of the active agent or volatile material, or between about 1.5 mg / day and about 4 mg / day of either the active agent or volatile material. Similarly, the dosage of a modality on the fixed surface area is selected based on the desired duration from weeks, months or seasons. For example, if the dispensing device 10, 110 is designed to have a delivery rate of about 2 mg of active agent / day then a dispensing device 10, 110 designed for use for one month will be dosed with at least 60 mg of an active agent (e.g., transfluthrin).As another example, if the 10,110 dispensing device is designed to have an emanation rate of approximately 2 mg of active agent / day, then a 10,110 dispensing device designed for use over three months (i.e., for one season) will be dosed with... Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 43 / 122 35 / 50 at least 160 mg of an active agent (e.g., transfluthrin). Thus, the initial dosage level of the volatile material and / or the active agent therein may vary from 1 mg to 5 g depending on the desired surface area, the desired emanation rate, and / or the desired emanation lifetime.

[0104] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the dispensing device 10, 110 may be initially dosed with the volatile material and / or the active agent with a predetermined initial dosage. In particular aspects, the initial dosage of the volatile material and / or the active agent therein may vary between about 1 mg and about 5 g, between about 20 mg and about 2 g, between about 20 mg and about 1 g, between about 20 mg and about 200 mg, between about 40 mg and about 100 mg, or between about 55 mg and about 70 mg. In one example, a 10, 110 dispensing device may initially be dosed with approximately 68.75 mg of volatile material, which may comprise approximately 55 mg of an active agent (e.g., transfluthrin or methofluthrin) and approximately 13.75 mg of a solvent (e.g., dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether).In another example, a 10, 110 dispensing device may initially be dosed with approximately 137.5 mg of volatile material which may comprise approximately 110 mg of an active agent (e.g., transfluthrin or methofluthrin) and approximately 27.5 mg of a solvent (e.g., dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether).

[0105] Although the quantities of an initial dosage are described above with respect to particular embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the initial dosage may vary and may be dependent on a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, the surface area of ​​the interior 62 of the dispensing device 10, 110 to which the volatile material is applied, the thickness of one or more layers to which the volatile material may be applied (for example, an inner layer thickness 50, 136 or a sealing layer thickness 52, 138, individually or in combination), a delivery rate Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 44 / 122 36 / 50 desired volatile material of dispensing device 10, 110, a type of material(s) used for one or more layers of dispensing device 10, 110 (for example, a type of material(s) used for the inner layer 50, 136, a type of material(s) used for the sealing layer 52, 138, a type of material(s) used for the outer layer 46, 112, or a type of material(s) used for the sealing layer 48, 134), or a type of volatile material(s) used in dispensing device 10, 110.

[0106] Figure 15 illustrates an illustrative method 200 for producing the dispensing device 10 or the dispensing device 110. In general, the process 200 can be illustrated schematically with steps 202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, and 214. First, in step 202, one or more materials of the outer layer 46, 132 of the dispensing device 10, 110 can be extruded. Next, in step 204, one or more materials of the sealing layer 48, 134 can be extruded onto the outer layer 46, 132, and in step 206, one or more materials of the inner layer 50, 136 can be extruded onto the sealing layer 48, 134. Additionally, in the next step 208, the sealing layer 52, 138 can be extruded onto the inner layer 50, 136 and the extruded layers of the dispensing device 10, 110 can be cooled or allowed to settle for a predetermined amount of time.After the layers of the dispensing device 10, 110 are formed, an initial dosage of the volatile material can be applied to the inner layer 50, 136 and / or to the sealing layer 52, 138 of the dispensing device 10, 110 in step 210.

[0107] In certain embodiments, the dispensing device may then be folded in step 212. In particular, the dispensing device 10, 110 may be folded upon itself so that an upper portion or top layer 40 of the dispensing device 10, 110 is positioned over a bottom or lower portion 42. After the dispensing device 10, 110 is folded, an application Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 45 / 122 37 / 50 of a moderate amount of heat, for example, by means of a plate press, may be applied to an outer layer 46, 132 of the dispensing device 10, 110. Preferably, heat in the range of 90 degrees Celsius to about 320 degrees Celsius may be applied to an outer layer 46, 132 for a predetermined amount of time, and pressure thereby form the heat-hermetic seal between the upper layer 40 and the lower portion 42 of the dispensing device 10, 110 and, in particular, the heat-hermetic seal between a first portion of the sealing layer 52, 138 and a second portion of the sealing layer 52, 138.

[0108] As discussed in this document, the outer layer 46, 132 of the dispensing device 10, 110 can be formed using one or more materials that possess good thermal properties and provide sufficient support and strength to the dispensing device 10, 110. In this regard, the outer layer 46, 132 can provide the dispensing device 10, 110 with high tensile strength that prevents the dispensing device 10, 110 from warping or tearing during operational use. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the dispensing device 10, or alternatively the dispensing device 110, can be adhered to the surface 220 using two contact points 222, 224. In an alternative embodiment, the dispensing device 10, or alternatively the dispensing device 110, can be suspended from the surface 226 using a hook or chain 228 positioned through an opening 230, as shown in Figure 17.Furthermore, as shown in Figure 18, the dispensing device 10, 110, according to the aspect illustrated in Figures 7, 8, and 14, can be adhered to the surface 230 using the mounting element 64, 144. EXAMPLES

[0109] The examples in this document are intended to illustrate certain embodiments of the dispensing device 10, 110 for those skilled in the art and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the description set forth. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, p. 46 / 122 38 / 50 in claims. The exemption device 10, 110 may include the following non-limiting examples. Example 1

[0110] As discussed in this document, characteristics relevant to the peelability and / or stability of the sealing layer 52, 138 may contribute to the selection of the material(s) used for the sealing layer 52, 138, such as the ability of the sealing layer 52, 138 to be easily opened by peeling or separated from a second layer in which the sealing layer 52, 138 is hermetically heat-sealed, or the ability of the sealing layer 52, 138 to rub off after the application of a solvent to it.

[0111] A number of materials were selected to be tested for the 52, 138 sealing layer and subsequently tested for their ability to form a heat-tight seal and their ability to subsequently peel off, as well as their ability to not rub off after contact with a solvent. In particular, 14 different materials were first tested based on their peelability and each material was generally classified as either easy to peel off or non-peeling. Then, the same materials were tested based on their chemical stability (or cure). In this testing, a dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether was applied to each material and each material was generally classified based on the material's ability to rub off the seal. The data collected are shown in Table 1. Table 1 Evaluation of Sealing Layers Material Sealing Capacity & Peeling Capacity Solvent Scrub Test DMM DuPont Mylar® OL (Biaxially Oriented Polyester Film (OPET) with a Heat Sealing Layer Easy Peeling Seal peeled easily Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 47 / 122 39 / 50 (of amorphous polyester) DuPont Mylar® OL12 (Biaxially oriented polyester film (OPET) with an amorphous polyester heat seal layer) Non-flaking Seal peeled off easily DuPont Mylar® OWF (Heat seal polyester film, one side amorphous, coextruded) Non-flaking Did not come off by rubbing by Roll Print 26-1267 (Polyester laminated composite, white polyethylene, aluminum foil, and polyester seal) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Roll Print 26-1268 (Polyester laminated composite, white polyethylene, aluminum foil, and coex seal) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Roll Print 26-1269 (Polyester laminated composite, white polyethylene, aluminum foil,(and coex seal) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Roll Print 26-1271 (Oriented polyester film with polyester seal) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Toray Plastics LumiLid® XL 7 (PET / PP sealant) Non-peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Toray Plastics LumiLid® XL 5 (PET / Sealant) Non-peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Toray XP 089 - 04B60728 (PET-based film with a high-performance olefin-based sealant layer) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Toray XP 089 - 03B60728 (PET-based film with a high-performance olefin-based sealant layer) Easy peeling Did not come off by rubbing by Toray XP 735 (PET-based film with a high-performance olefin-based sealant layer) No Peelable. Did not come off with rubbing. By Toray XP 781 (PET-based film with a high-performance olefin-based sealant layer). Non-peeling. Did not come off with rubbing. By Bemis Lidding Film. Easy peeling. Did not come off with rubbing. Example 2

[0112] A number of the materials from Example 1 was Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 48 / 122 40 / 50 was subsequently tested based on its ability to retain a volatile material. In particular, for each material, a dispensing device was constructed and dosed with an initial concentration of 68.75 mg of the volatile material, which includes approximately 80% by weight of transfluthrin (approximately 55 mg) and approximately 20% by weight of PROGLYDE™ dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether (approximately 13.75 mg), and subsequently sealed. Each dispensing device was stored under high-temperature conditions, i.e., in an environment having a constant temperature of approximately 54 degrees Celsius, and the concentration of volatile material at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks was measured. The collected data are illustrated in Figure 21, and furthermore, Table 2 details which films from Example 1 were tested and plotted in Figure 21. Table 2 Solubility Film Type Material 1 26-1267 2 26-1268 3 26-1269 4 26-1271 5 Toray XP 089 - 03B60728 (72G-03) 6 Toray XP 089 - 04B60728 (72G-04) 7 Bemis 8 MSP* *Not in Example 1

[0113] The data collected for the eight different materials that can be used for the sealing layer 52, 138, showed either complete retention of the volatile material or a loss of volatile material in each respective dispensing device. Based on the data, it was determined that a quantity of volatile material can be completely, or almost completely, retained by a dispensing device. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 49 / 122 41 / 50 which uses a polyester film supplied by Toray Plastics, Inc. (i.e., film types 5 and 6 in Figure 21 and Table 2), or a multilayer nylon-based film from Bemis Company, Inc. (i.e., film type 7 in Figure 21 and Table 2).

[0114] It was also determined that the decrease in the active agent or volatile material within the dispensing device 10, 110 over time was due to permeation of the active agent or volatile material through the film or leaching of the active agent or volatile material through the hermetic seal between the sealing layer 52, 138.

[0115] As noted in this document, typically, materials capable of retaining an active agent or a volatile material, such as transfluthrin used in the Examples in this document, are incapable of forming a heat-tight seal, or conversely, materials capable of forming sufficiently airtight seals are not expected to adequately store or retain a volatile material. However, as shown in Examples 1-3, an unexpected and surprising discovery was made that some materials capable of retaining volatile materials (e.g., transfluthrin or metofluthrin) can also form adequate heat-tight seals that sufficiently retain the volatile materials within them. Example 3

[0116] Furthermore, as discussed in this document, it has been surprisingly determined that the combination or selection of the inner layer 50, 136 and the sealing layer 52, 138 can provide a sealed dispensing device 10, 110 with the ability to contain a high dosage of an active agent or a volatile material in a stable environment, i.e., an environment that retains substantially all of an initial dosage of the active agent or volatile material in the dispensing device 10, 110 for an extended period of time (e.g., two or twelve weeks, and above), within the dispensing device 10.

[0117] For example, in one aspect, the inner layer 50, 136 includes by Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 50 / 122 42 / 50 less a material that is adapted to dissolve, or partially dissolve, the active agent or volatile material that is used. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more layers of the sealing layer 52, 138, individually or in combination, may be adapted to be permeable or impermeable to the volatile material or active agent within the dispensing device. In order to determine the ability of the inner layer material(s) 50, 136, or alternatively the sealing layer 52, 138, to dissolve and retain an active agent or volatile material, Hansen solubility parameters and Relative Energy Difference (RED) values ​​can be accessed.

[0118] For example, in one embodiment, a number of materials were selected for the inner layer 50, 136 (or sealing layer 52, 138). For each material, a relative energy difference (RED) value was calculated using parameters for the respective materials and their respective Hansen parameters in connection with transfluthrin, which was used as an example of an active agent for a volatile material. More particularly, 58 different materials were tested based on their ability to dissolve transfluthrin. In this test, Hansen parameters were determined for the 58 different polymers and Hansen parameters were determined for transfluthrin, and RED values ​​were calculated using Equations 1 and 2 described in this document. The calculated RED values ​​are shown in Table 3 below. Table 3 Evaluation of the Inner Layer and Sealing Material RED Value for Polymer (with a Transfluthrin pair at room temperature) Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) 1.29 Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) 2.53 Example of silicone 2.08 Baysilon UD 125 (silicone resin) 2.05 Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 51 / 122 43 / 50 Silicone 0.56 Polysulfone (PSU) 1.80 Polysulfone (PSU) 1.29 Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) 1.15 Styrene / acrylonitrile copolymer (30% AN) 1.78 Styrene / acrylonitrile copolymer (30% AN) 1.50 Nylon 11 1.90 Polyethylene (PE) 1.54 Polyethylene (PE) 1.57 Nylon 6 1.97 Polyphenylene oxide (PPO) CR 1.35 Polyphenylene oxide (PPO) 1.45 Polybutylene terephthalate 2.47 Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 1.61 Vipla KR (PVC) 3.94 Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 1.06 Mylar PET 2.25 PET mylar / R PET 2.76 Polycarbonate (PC) 1.45 Polycarbonate (PC) 1.42 Polisar 5630 (SBR) 1.87 R SBR 1.04 Nylon 6.6 1.49 Nylon 6.6 2.88 Polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PETG) 2.10 Lucite 2044 PMMA 0.87 Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) 1.48 PMMA CR (Chemical Resistance) 0.63 PMMA 1.05 Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) 1.82 Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) 1.43 Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) 0.99 Polystyrene LG 1.58 Polystyrene (PS) 1.17 Polystyrene (PS) 1.69 Polypropylene (PP) 1.89 Polypropylene (PP) 2,16 Polyethylene Polyethylene (PET) 1,45 Polyethylene Polyethylene (PET) 1,93 Polyethylene Imida (PEI) 3,18 Polyethylene Imida (PEI) 2,22 PEN (Polietilenonaftaleno) 3,39 Poly(acetato de etileno-co-vinil) (EVA) 4055 Sol 2,56 PES Sol 2,36 Polyétersulfona (PES) 1,87, Petition 870250075062, dated 25 / 08 / 2025, p. 52 / 122 44 / 50 Barex 210 CR 1,46 Barex 210 CR-Estirene 1,69 Polyethylene of high densidade (HDPE) 7,34 Álcool ethylene vinylico EVOH Sol 2,30 Polyoximethylene (polyacetal) (POM) 1,82 Polioximethylene 1,21 Oxido of polyethylene oxide (PEO, PEG) 1,25 Poliacrilonitrila (PAN) 1,80 Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) 2.62

[0119] Based on the calculated Relative Energy Difference values, preferred materials that can be used for the inner layer 50, 136 or sealing layer 52, 138 were determined. For example, materials exhibiting a RED value between about 0.5 and 15, or between about 0.5 and about 10, or between about 0.5 and 8 may be preferred materials for the inner layer 50, 136 when transfluthrin is used as an active ingredient in the volatile material. In other embodiments, materials exhibiting a RED value greater than 1, greater than 2, or greater than 5 may be preferred materials for the inner layer 50, 136 when transfluthrin is used as an active ingredient in the volatile material.

[0120] Furthermore, it was surprisingly determined that of the materials listed in Table 3, a polyester film, a polyvinyl alcohol film, a polypropylene film, an ethylene vinyl acetate film, a high-density polyethylene film, or an ethylene vinyl alcohol film create heat-tight seals, as discussed in this document. As such, the aforementioned materials are capable not only of retaining an active agent or volatile material, but also of forming a heat-tight seal to retain the active agent or volatile material within them. Example 4

[0121] Multiple dispensing devices incorporating a high-density polyethylene as the outer layer 46, 132, a nylon-based material as the inner layer 50, 136, and an ethylene vinyl alcohol as the sealing layer 52, 138 were constructed. The dispensing devices were then Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 53 / 122 45 / 50 tablets were dosed with approximately 137.5 mg of volatile material, which includes 110 mg of transfluthrin as an active agent, and hermetically heat-sealed. The dispensing devices were then subjected to temperatures ranging anywhere between 40 degrees Celsius and 55 degrees Celsius for a fixed amount of time ranging from about 0 weeks to about 12 weeks. In particular, the level or concentration of transfluthrin remaining within the dispensing devices was measured after 1 week, after 2 weeks, after 4 weeks, and after 12 weeks. The resulting data were plotted and are shown in Figure 22.

[0122] As discussed in this document, it has been surprisingly determined that an optimal combination or selection of the outer layer 46, 132, the inner layer 50, 136, the sealing layer 52, 138, and / or the volatile material for the dispensing device 10, 110 can provide a dispensing device capable of containing a high dosage of an active agent or a volatile material (such as a dosage of 137.5 mg) within the dispensing device 10, 110 in a stable environment, i.e., an environment that retains substantially all of the initial dosage of the active agent or volatile material in a sealed dispensing device 10, 110 for an extended period of time (e.g., two or twelve weeks, and above).Additionally, based on this experimentation and the data illustrated in Figure 22, it was determined that a preferred embodiment of the dispensing device 10, 110 includes an outer layer 46, 132 having a high-density polyethylene, an inner layer 50, 136 having a nylon-based material, a sealing layer 52, 138 having an ethylene vinyl acetate, and a volatile material containing transfluthrin as an active agent. Furthermore, based on the data shown in Figure 22, it was determined that such a dispensing device can retain at least about 90% of the initial dosage of a volatile material containing transfluthrin as the active agent. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 54 / 122 46 / 50

[0123] Additional dispensing devices similar to the dispensing device discussed above were dosed with approximately 137.5 mg of volatile material, which includes 110 mg of transfluthrin as an active agent, and hermetically heat-sealed. The dispensing devices were then subjected to temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius for a fixed amount of time ranging from about 0 months to 2 months. In particular, the level or concentration of transfluthrin remaining within the dispensing devices was measured after 2 months for multiple dispensing devices, and the data were plotted and are shown in Figure 23. As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the dispensing devices retained at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, and at least about 98% of the initial dosage after prolonged periods of time (e.g., after 12 weeks or 2 months).

[0124] The dispensing devices were also subsequently tested based on their effectiveness in emitting the volatile material or active agent therefrom. In particular, dispensing devices incorporating a high-density polyethylene as the outer layer 46, 132, a nylon-based material as the inner layer 50, 136, and an ethylene vinyl acetate as the sealing layer 52, 138 were constructed. The dispensing devices were then dosed with approximately 137.5 mg of volatile material, which includes 110 mg of transfluthrin as an active agent, and hermetically heat-sealed. Subsequently, the dispensing devices were opened to expose their interior and allowed to emanate within a closed chamber for approximately 32 days.The amount of transfluthrin still contained within the dispensing devices was measured in multiple cases, including after 5 days from the initial exposure, after 13 days from the initial exposure, after 20 days from the initial exposure, and after 32 days from the initial exposure. The data from this experiment were subsequently plotted and are... Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 55 / 122 47 / 50 visually shown in Figure 24. As shown in Figure 24, the dispensing devices provide a controlled release of the active agent (i.e., transfluthrin) from the dispensing device for a period in excess of 30 days. Example 5

[0125] Other dispensing devices similar to the dispensing devices previously discussed in Example 4 were subsequently tested based on their effectiveness in emitting a volatile material or active agent at an initial dosage level of 55 mg. In particular, dispensing devices similar to the dispensing devices discussed in Example 5 were dosed with approximately 55 mg of transfluthrin as an active agent and allowed to emanate within a closed chamber for approximately 14 days. The amount of transfluthrin still contained within the dispensing devices was measured in multiple instances, including after 2 days from the initial exposure, after 4 days from the initial exposure, after 6 days from the initial exposure, after 10 days from the initial exposure, and after 14 days from the initial exposure. The data from this experiment were subsequently plotted and are visually shown in Figure 25.As shown in Figure 25, the dispensing devices provide controlled release of the active agent (i.e., transfluthrin) from the dispensing device for a period in excess of 14 days.

[0126] As discussed previously, although the quantities of an initial dosage are described here with respect to particular embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the initial dosage may vary and may be dependent on a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, the surface area of ​​the interior 62 of the dispensing device 10, 110 to which the volatile material is applied, the thickness of one or more layers to which the volatile material may be applied (for example, an inner layer thickness 50, 136 or a sealing layer thickness 52, 138, individually or in combination). Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 56 / 122 48 / 50 combination), a desired delivery rate of volatile material from the dispensing device 10, 110, a type of material(s) used for one or more layers of the dispensing device 10, 110 (for example, a type of material(s) used for the inner layer 50, 136, a type of material(s) used for the sealing layer 52, 138, a type of material(s) used for the outer layer 46, 112, or a type of material(s) used for the sealing layer 48, 134), or a type of volatile material(s) used in the dispensing device 10, 110. For example, in one embodiment, a dispensing device 10, 110 may have an initial dosage of 110 mg of the active agent if emanation is desired for more than 30 days, as shown in Figure 24. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 25, a device Instead of dispensing 10, 110 can have an initial dosage of 55 mg of active agent if emission is desired for a shorter period of time, such as 14 days or two weeks.

[0127] The term about, as used herein, refers to the variation in numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measurement and handling procedures of liquids used to make concentrates or use solutions in the real world; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or perform the methods; and the like. The term about may also encompass quantities that differ due to different equilibrium conditions for a composition resulting from a particular initial mixture. In one embodiment, the term about refers to a range of values ​​± 5% of a specified value.

[0128] The terms “percent by weight”, “weight %”, “percentage by weight”, “% by weight” and variations thereof, as used in this document, refer to the concentration of a substance, material, component or chemical product as the weight of that substance, material, component or chemical product divided by the total weight, for example, of the composition or of a specific component of the composition, and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used in this document, Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 57 / 122 49 / 50 percent, % and similar terms may be synonymous with percentage by weight, % by weight. For example, in connection with the volatile material discussed in this document and the % by weight of its values, the % by weight of the active agent discussed here may be relative to the weight of the active agent divided by the total weight of the volatile material, which may include the weight of the active agent and the weight of a solvent.

[0129] Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of this description. It is understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined in this document extend to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text and / or drawings. All such different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present description. The embodiments described herein explain the best known ways to practice the description and will enable others skilled in the art to use the description. The claims shall be interpreted to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

[0130] As previously noted, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, although the present invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the present invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations from the embodiments, examples and uses should be covered by the appended claims. The entire description of each patent and publication cited in this document is incorporated by reference, as if each patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference in this document. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0131] The aspects of the dispenser or dispensing device described in this document advantageously combine the characteristics of the layer, or combination of layers, to effectively retain or store a volatile material or Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 58 / 122 50 / 50 active agent, efficiently sealing a volatile material or active agent within the dispenser or dispensing device, and efficiently releasing the volatile material or active agent within a desired usage time. Furthermore, the aspects of the dispenser or dispensing device provide a mechanism that is not only easy to use but also economical, as well as a structurally stable device. Thus, the described dispenser or dispensing device can be used for a wide range of applications.

[0132] Numerous modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Consequently, this description should be interpreted as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the present invention and to teach the best way to carry it out. Exclusive rights to all modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims are reserved. Petition 870250075062, dated 08 / 25 / 2025, page 59 / 122

Claims

1 / 3 CLAIMS 1. Multilayer article (10, 110) comprising an inactive state and an active state, the multilayer article (10, 110) CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: an outer layer (12, 46, 132) having a first side and a second side; an inner layer (50, 136) adjacent to at least a portion of the outer layer (12, 46, 132) and comprising a volatile material therein, the inner layer (50, 136) being connected to the outer layer (12, 46, 132) in both the active and inactive states;and an upper layer (52, 138) comprising a first side and a second side, the first side of the upper layer (52, 138) being disposed on top of at least a portion of the inner layer (50, 136) and the volatile material therein, wherein the volatile material includes a solvent and an active agent, wherein the multilayered article (10, 110) is folded upon itself in the non-active state such that at least a first portion of the second side of the upper layer (52, 138) is disposed on an upper portion of a second portion of the second side of the upper layer (52, 138), and wherein the first portion and the second portion of the upper layer (52, 138) are heat-sealed in the non-active state.

2. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the outer layer (12, 46, 132) includes a high-density polyethylene.

3. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the inner layer (50, 136) includes a nylon.

4. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED in that the top layer (52, 138) is an ethylene vinyl acetate with polyolefin. Petition 870260067996, dated 09 / 07 / 2026, page 18 / 26 2 / 3 5. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, CHARACTERIZED in that the volatile material comprises the active agent and a solvent.

6. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 5, CHARACTERIZED in that the active agent is transfluthrin and the solvent is a dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether.

7. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, CHARACTERIZED in that the multilayer article (10, 110) is initially dosed with 110 mg of the active agent.

8. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to claim 7, CHARACTERIZED in that when the multilayer article (10, 110) is in the inactive state, the multilayer article (10, 110) retains at least 90% of the initial dosage of the active agent after 60 days.

9. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 8, CHARACTERIZED in that when the multilayer article (10, 110) is in the active state, the multilayer article (10, 110) emanates the active agent at an emanation rate between 2 mg / day and 4 mg / day.

10. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 9, CHARACTERIZED in that the multilayer article (10, 110) has a peel resistance between 2 N and 50 N, the peel resistance being an average load resistance capable of separating a heat seal between the first and second portion of the top layer (52, 138).

11. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, CHARACTERIZED in that the active agent and the inner layer (50, 136) have a relative energy difference between 0.5 and 15.

12. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 11, CHARACTERIZED in that the inner layer (50, 136) Petition 870260067996, dated 09 / 07 / 2026, page 19 / 26 3 / 3 has a first side and a second side, wherein the volatile material is enclosed between the first side and the second side of the inner layer (50, 136).

13. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to any one of claims 1 to 12, CHARACTERIZED in that: an outer layer (12, 46, 132) is formed from a highly crystalline polymeric structure; an inner layer (50, 136) includes a material selected from the group consisting of a polyethylene, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polypropylene, an ethylene vinyl acetate, a high-density polyethylene, and an ethylene vinyl alcohol; and a top layer (52, 138) includes a material selected from the group consisting of an ethylene vinyl acetate, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, an ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, a polyester, a nylon or polybutene, butylene copolymer, and / or combinations of said materials.

14. Multilayer article (10, 110), according to claim 7, CHARACTERIZED in that when the multilayer article (10, 110) is in the inactive state, the multilayer article (10, 110) retains at least 90% of the initial dosage of the active agent after 30 days. Petition 870260067996, dated 09 / 07 / 2026, p. 20 / 26

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