Multi-layer receptacle and residue removal method therefor

Abstract

A receptacle is disclosed having an interior surrounded by a container body formed of two layers of different material. The inner layer is soluble in the presence of a selected solvent while the outer layer, which is supported by the inner layer, is formed of a material that is insoluble in the presence of the solvent. The inner layer may particularly be either hot or cold water soluble and may specifically be formed of polyvinyl alcohol. The outer layer may be in the form of frangible shell that is bonded to the inner layer and formed of a water insoluble material. The container body may further include a middle layer interposed between the inner and outer layers. A method of removing chemical residue from a container is also provided. The method comprises contacting the inner layer of the container body with sufficient quantity of water to dissolve the inner layer.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]The present invention broadly concerns receptacles for the storage and transportation of selected items or materials. More specifically, the present invention concerns containers suited for holding liquid substances such as agrochemicals, which can be rinsed with a suitable solvent to remove residue in the interior of the container. The present invention also concerns a method of removing residue from the interior of a receptacle.[0002]Packaging is a fundamental need in modern society. At its very essence, packaging enables goods to be distributed over large geographical areas while both protecting and preserving the quality of the goods during their distribution and storage. Typically, packaging provides important information about the goods it contains, such as an explanation of the product, how the product is to be used, and legally pertinent information. Importantly, packaging can also provide a significant commercial advantage to companies who sell competing pro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]The inner layer is preferably substantially continuous and surrounds a majority of the container interior and may be formed of a material that is either hot water soluble or cold water soluble and that is also impervious to hazardous substances. For example, the inner layer maybe formed of polyvinyl alcohol. The outer layer, on the other hand, may be formed of polypropylene, polyvinylchloride, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, or polyethylene terephthalate.

Problems solved by technology

Indeed, environmental, safety, and commercial pressures have triggered stringent regulatory requirements designed to reduce soil and groundwater contamination resulting from the disposal of partially filled containers or residue left in improperly rinsed containers.

While these programs do lessen the amount of containers that need to be disposed, these containers cannot be used indefinitely.

For example, the integrity of the packaging can deteriorate after sufficient use, rendering it unusable.

As a result, potentially vast quantities of containers with the incorrect names, sizes, or configurations are no longer useable and are eventually disposed.

In fact, a significant quantity of agrochemical products are packaged non-reusable containers because a large percentage of farms are too small to make practical use of reusable containers.

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