Structure, packaged item, method for manufacturing the structure and use of the cohesive cold sealing composition

Description

"STRUCTURE, PACKAGED ITEM, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE STRUCTURE AND USE OF THE COHESIVE COLD SEALING COMPOSITION" Field of the invention

[001] The present invention relates to cohesive cold-seal compositions and their use in packaging applications, wherein the cohesive cold-seal compositions comprise small amounts of, or are free of, non-biodegradable and non-compostable components. Cross-reference to related patent applications.

[002] This invention claims priority from provisional application US63 / 300704 and provisional application US63 / 347586, which are incorporated herein by reference. Background of the Invention

[003] Cold seal is a water-based cohesive coating used to seal a variety of paper and film packaging materials. Cold seal is a self-sealing adhesive that requires only pressure to seal. As the name indicates, cold seal does not require heat. Cohesive cold seals are primarily used to seal heat-sensitive items such as chocolate bars. The cohesive is typically applied wet to the substrate by a rotating engraving cylinder and immediately dried in an extended oven before being rolled up at the end of the press.

[004] Known cohesive cold-seal compositions in the prior art typically comprise many non-biodegradable components, such as acrylic, styrene-acrylic, and vinyl acetate emulsions. Thus, there is a need for novel cohesive cold-seal compositions that comprise low amounts of, or are free of, non-biodegradable and non-compostable components. The cohesive cold-seal composition of the invention can therefore be used in biodegradable packaging applications to produce products that undergo biodegradation. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 11 / 56 2 / 33 and can be compostable. New cohesive cold-sealing compositions must also meet usage requirements, including adhering properly to substrates and having adequate cohesive strengths in order to effectively seal packages with the required sealing strength. Brief Description of the Invention

[005] The inventors have discovered a water-based cohesive cold-sealing composition comprising low amounts of, or free of, non-biodegradable and non-compostable components. The water-based cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention have properties suitable for effective use in sealing packaging. The inventors have thus found a way to replace the non-biodegradable and non-compostable components that are present in the cold-sealing compositions of the art, in a way that does not compromise performance.

[006] In particular, the present invention provides a water-based cohesive cold-sealing composition comprising natural rubber latex, a biodegradable resinous material, and water. The invention further provides a structure comprising the composition of the invention, as well as a packaged item comprising the structure of the invention. In addition, the invention provides a method for manufacturing the cohesive cold-sealing composition of the invention, as well as a method for manufacturing the structure of the invention. Finally, the invention provides the use of the cold-sealing compositions of the invention for sealing packages. Detailed Description of the Invention Definitions

[007] Cohesive compositions are compositions capable of bonding to themselves, which can be used to join substrates, such as packaging components. Cohesive compositions can be applied to the substrates of packaging components, which can be joined together and Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, p. 12 / 56 3 / 33 tablets to seal them. The cohesive compositions bind together, with the cohesive forces resisting separation. The cohesive compositions also act as adhesives and adhere to the substrates, with the adhesive forces between the cohesive composition and the substrate also resisting separation.

[008] Cold sealing cohesives / adhesives are water-based natural rubber latex used primarily for sealing heat-sensitive items such as chocolate bars. Cold sealing is a self-sealing adhesive that requires only pressure to seal (i.e., it does not require heat).

[009] Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges include their respective endpoints. For example, a range between 3 and 9 includes the endpoints 3 and 9. However, when an endpoint is defined as being “more than” one value and / or up to “less than” another value, the range does not include the respective endpoints.

[010] Unless otherwise indicated, % by weight (w / w) refers to the mass of the component in question in relation to all components present in the composition, including any solvents present.

[011] Unless otherwise specified, the steps of the method must be performed in the order in which they are recited.

[012] In the context of this application, compostability refers to the ability of some materials to disintegrate within a specified period of time under controlled conditions (see ASTM D6400-19, point 6.2, ASTM D6868-19, point 6.2 and EN13432). Biodegradability refers to the conversion of organic carbon present in a sample into carbon dioxide under controlled conditions (see ASTM D6400-19, point 6.3, ASTM D6868-19, point 6.3, and EN13432). When compostability or biodegradability is defined in terms of a percentage, it is the percentage of the original material that is lost (either by sieving or as carbon dioxide) following the tests described in one of the standards. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, p. 13 / 56 4 / 33 mentioned above. The percentage may not necessarily conform to the limit indicated in the relevant test.

[013] Polymeric carbohydrates are carbohydrates that comprise at least 10 monosaccharide units in a chain.

[014] Converters are companies that specialize in modifying or combining raw materials such as polyesters, adhesives, silicone, adhesive tapes, foams, plastics, felts, rubbers, linings and metals, as well as other materials, to create new products.

[015] Directive (EU)2018 / 852 is the latest amendment to Directive 94 / 62 / EC and contains updated measures aimed at preventing the production of packaging waste and promoting the reuse, recycling and other forms of recovery of packaging waste, instead of its final disposal, thus contributing to the transition to a circular economy. The Invention

[016] Converters have expressed interest in a biodegradable or compostable cold-seal adhesive. However, none are currently available on the market. In addition to the need for cohesive cold seals in heat-sensitive packaging items, converters in Europe would avoid taxation by 2030 by using a cold-seal cohesive listed in Directive (EU) 2018 / 852 Article 9(5) on European Waste. The present application describes the development of biodegradable and / or compostable cold-seal cohesives with performance that is at least as good as currently available non-biodegradable and / or non-compostable products when used on biodegradable and / or compostable substrates. The compostable packaging comprising the cold-seal adhesive of the invention can be compostable in a way that does not impair the compostability activity.

[017] The development approach includes Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 14 / 56 5 / 33 combination of natural rubber latex (NRL) with other suitable biodegradable and / or compostable raw materials, for example proteins (e.g. casein, albumin, soy protein and soy protein isolate); and polymeric carbohydrates (e.g. starch, dextrin). Rubber

[018] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention comprises an NRL. The NRL for use in the invention may be water-based. Hevea brasiliensis is the main source of NRL, but natural rubber is synthesized in more than 2,000 plant species and, for example, the NRL produced by guaiule (Parthenium argentatum Gray) or Russian dandelion (Taraxacum koksaghyz) could be used within the scope of this invention. Biodegradable Resin Material

[019] It has been surprisingly discovered that biodegradable and / or compostable materials can be used to replace the non-biodegradable materials typically incorporated in cold sealing compositions of the art, to provide compositions that have cohesive, adhesive and locking properties that are at least comparable to compositions of the art.

[020] The biodegradable resinous material for use in the compositions of the invention is in the form of a resin (i.e., it is resinous). The biodegradable resinous material for use in the invention is preferably a protein, a polymeric carbohydrate, or a combination thereof. The biodegradable resinous material for use in the invention is more preferably a protein selected from the group consisting of casein, albumin, whey protein, soy protein, soy protein isolate, and combinations thereof. The biodegradable resinous material for use in the invention is even more preferably casein and / or albumin. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 15 / 56 6 / 33

[021] The biodegradable resinous material for use in the invention may be a polymeric carbohydrate selected from the group consisting of starch, dextrin, cellulose, cyclodextrins, pectin, chitin, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, carrageenan gum, xanthan gum and combinations thereof.

[022] The biodegradable resinous material for use in the invention may be a combination of two or more of the polymeric proteins and / or carbohydrates discussed above.

[023] The biodegradable resinous material preferentially imparts adhesion and antiblocking properties to the formulation, properties that are normally achieved in non-biodegradable or non-compostable cold sealing cohesives by combining NRL with various non-biodegradable acrylics, styrene acrylics, vinyl acetate or similar materials and / or non-compostable emulsions. Biodegradability / Compostability

[024] Packaging material is a finished product that can only be considered compostable if it strictly meets certain criteria that ensure the composting process will proceed according to established rules and restrictions in a controlled manner, as opposed to a generic and uncontrolled biodegradation process. Specific regulations are in force in different regions. In general, the criteria are similar and stipulate that the compost produced is of good quality and does not contain contaminants.

[025] Packaging products include different constituents, which are classified as “components”. These include the substrate, inks, cold seals, adhesives, and others. All components must comply with defined rules. However, the complexity of these rules is a function of the maximum percentage by weight of the components in the product packaging. The substrate is usually the main component and the one that plays the role of Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 16 / 56 7 / 33 plays a more active role in the composting process. For this reason, compostable substrates are independently tested not only for chemical composition and ecotoxicity, but also for biodegradation and disintegration, unlike components that do not exceed a certain percentage by weight, as defined by the relevant standard.

[026] According to the main international standards (i.e., ASTM 6400, ASTM D6868-19, EN13432), products applied in percentages by weight greater than 1% would be considered “constituents” of the packaging. They would have to undergo not only ecotoxicity and chemical analysis tests, but also the same biodegradation and disintegration tests required for the main component of the packaging, which is the actively compostable substrate.

[027] Compostability is commonly measured according to the following standards: European EN 13432 (covering all types of packaging) and North American standards ASTM D6400-19 and D6868-19 (covering plastic and paper packaging products, respectively).

[028] The European standard EN 13432 has been adopted by many national standardisation bodies in many member states of the European Union. The main tests and pass / fail criteria are: - Disintegration - the packaging sample is mixed with organic waste and kept under test-scale composting conditions for 12 weeks, after which no more than 10% of the material fragments are allowed to be larger than 2 mm; - Biodegradability - a measure of the actual metabolic and microbial conversion under compostability conditions of the packaging sample into water, carbon dioxide, and new cellular biomass. Under industrial compostability conditions, within a maximum of six months (at 58 °C ± 2 °C), the biodegradation of the test sample should generate a quantity of carbon dioxide Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 17 / 56 8 / 33 carbon that is at least 90% of the carbon dioxide emitted by the control / reference material. Under domestic compostability conditions, biodegradation and disintegration tests are performed at room temperature; - Low levels of heavy metals and potentially toxic elements, with an adverse effect on the quality of the compound produced - the upper limits in mg / kg of dry sample are: zinc 150, copper 50, nickel 25, cadmium 0.5, lead 50, mercury 0.5, chromium 50, molybdenum 1, selenium 0.75, arsenic 5 and fluorine 100; - Ecotoxicity - The compostable packaging material should not have adverse effects on the growth of selected plants through changes in the characteristics of the compost and soil contamination.

[029] The US standards ASTM D6400-19 / D6868-19 are similar to the EN 13432 standard, but the US standards ASTM D640019 / D6868-19 also aim to support evidence that “the entire product or packaging will break down completely and return to nature within a reasonably short period of time after usual disposal”, which in this case is defined as 84 days for fragmentation of at least 90% of the product and 180 days for complete mineralization in a properly managed composting facility.

[030] The main difference between ASTM D6400-19 / D6868-19 and the EN13432 standard is that coatings / adhesives / cold seals and other packaging components with high application limits at a weight percentage between 1% and 10% require additional biodegradation testing in ASTM D6400-19 / 6868, where each component is tested individually.

[031] The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention disintegrate under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 or EN13432 (see point 6.2) such that no more than 50% Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, p. 18 / 56 9 / 33 of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the composition is compostable up to > 50%). The water-based cold-sealing cohesive compositions of the invention preferably disintegrate under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 (see point 6.2) or EN13432, such that no more than 30% of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the composition is compostable up to > 70%), and more preferably no more than 10% of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the composition is compostable up to > 90%). In other words, the cohesive water-based cold sealing compositions of the invention pass the test conditions described in ASTM D6400-19 (point 6.2), ASTM D6868-19 (point 6.2), and EN13432. The cohesive water-based cold sealing compositions of the invention preferably pass the test conditions described in ASTM D6400-19 (point 6.2) and ASTM D6868-19.

[032] The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention may also be biodegradable under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 (see point 6.3) or EN13432, such that at least 30% of the organic carbon present is converted into carbon dioxide (i.e., the composition is biodegradable by at least 30%). The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention preferably biodegrade under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 or EN13432 (see point 6.3), such that at least 50% of the organic carbon present is converted into carbon dioxide (i.e., the composition is biodegradable by at least 50%), or more preferably, at least 70% of the organic carbon present is converted into carbon dioxide (i.e., the composition is biodegradable by at least 70%). The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention can biodegrade under the conditions described in EN13432 and comply with this. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, p. 19 / 56 10 / 33 standard.

[033] The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention may conform to at least one of ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 and / or EN13432. The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention preferably meet at least EN13432. The water-based cold sealing cohesive compositions of the invention may conform to all standards ASTM D640019, ASTM D6868-19 and EN13432. Additives

[034] The cohesive cold sealing compositions of the invention may further comprise one or more additives. The additives may be selected from the group consisting of antifoaming agents, biocidal agents and combinations thereof. Values Biodegradable Resin Material

[035] As discussed, the biodegradable resinous materials are preferably solutions or dispersions of the biodegradable resinous materials in a solvent. The solvent is preferably water. The cold-sealing cohesive compositions of the invention preferably comprise between 10 and 70% by weight of a solution or dispersion of one or more biodegradable resinous materials, such as between 10 and 60% by weight, and more preferably between 20 and 50% by weight, such as between 30 and 50% by weight of a solution or dispersion of one of the more biodegradable resinous materials.

[036] Biodegradable resin solvents and dispersions preferably have a solids content between 5 and 30% by weight, more preferably between 7 and 20% by weight, and even more preferably between 9 and 15% by weight, as well as between 9 and 12% by weight. Therefore, the Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 20 / 56 11 / 33 Cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise between 1 and 30% by weight of biodegradable resinous solids (e.g., casein and albumin), such as between 1 and 20% by weight, and more preferably between 2 and 15% by weight, such as between 2 and 10% by weight, and even more preferably between 2 and 8% by weight of biodegradable resinous solids (e.g., casein and albumin).

[037] When the biodegradable resinous material is albumin, it is further preferred that the cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention comprise at least 2% by weight of albumin solids, more preferably at least 3% by weight of albumin solids, and even more preferably at least 4% by weight of albumin solids. The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention may comprise between 2% and 15% by weight of albumin solids, such as between 3% and 15% by weight of albumin solids, and more preferably between 3% and 10% by weight, and even more preferably between 4% by weight and 10% by weight of albumin solids, such as between 4% and 8% by weight of albumin solids. Natural rubber

[038] The cohesive cold sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise between 30 and 90% by weight of NRL, as well as between 40 and 80% by weight, and more preferably between 45 and 70% by weight. The NRLs for use in the invention comprise natural rubber and water.

[039] The NRL for use in the invention preferably has a solids content between 20 and 90% by weight, such as more preferably between 40 and 80% by weight, and most preferably between 50 and 70% by weight, such as about 60% by weight. Therefore, the cohesive cold sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise between 10 and 70% by weight of natural rubber solids, such as between 15 and 60% by weight, more preferably between 20 and 50% by weight of natural rubber solids, and Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 21 / 56 12 / 33 even more preferably between 25% by weight and 45% by weight of natural rubber solids, as well as between 25% by weight and 36% by weight of natural rubber solids.

[040] When the biodegradable resinous material comprises albumin, it is preferable that the cohesive cold-seal composition comprise between 15 and 50% by weight of natural rubber solids, more preferably between 15 and 40% by weight of natural rubber solids, and even more preferably between 20% by weight and 36% by weight of natural rubber solids. Non-biodegradable / non-compostable materials

[041] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention preferably comprises less than 50% by weight of non-compostable materials, such as less than 40% by weight, more preferably less than 30% by weight, such as less than 20% by weight, less than 10% by weight, and even more preferably less than 5% by weight of non-compostable materials. The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention may be free of non-compostable materials.

[042] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention preferably comprises less than 50% by weight of non-compostable materials, in relation to the total solids content, such as less than 40% by weight, more preferably less than 30% by weight, such as less than 20% by weight, less than 10% by weight, and even more preferably less than 5% by weight of non-compostable materials in relation to the total solids content.

[043] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention preferably comprises less than 70% by weight of non-biodegradable materials, such as less than 60% by weight, and more preferably less than 50% by weight of non-biodegradable materials.

[044] Non-biodegradable or non-compostable materials are Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 22 / 56 13 / 33 materials that do not meet the following standards: EN 13432 (covering all types of packaging), ASTM D6400-19 and D6868-19 (covering plastic and paper packaging products, respectively). In particular, non-compostable materials fail at least one of the relevant tests described in ASTM D6400-19 (item 6.2), ASTM D6868-19 (item 6.2) or EN13432. Non-biodegradable materials fail at least one of the relevant tests described in ASTM D6400-19 (item 6.3), ASTM D6868-19 (item 6.3) or EN13432. Examples of non-biodegradable and / or non-compostable materials include acrylics, styrene acrylic, shellac-modified polystyrene, ethylene vinyl acetate, styrene butadiene, vinyl acetate, and emulsions of any of the above.

[045] Ratio between natural rubber solids and biodegradable resinous material solids.

[046] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention preferably comprises natural rubber solids and biodegradable resinous material solids in a ratio between 50:1 and 1:10, such as between 30:1 and 1:5. The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention more preferably comprises natural rubber solids and biodegradable resinous material solids in a ratio between 20:1 and 1:1, such as between 20:1 and 2:1.

[047] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention further preferably comprises natural rubber solids and biodegradable resinous material solids in a ratio between 16:1 and 4:1. WATER

[048] The cohesive cold sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise water in an amount between 30 and 90% by weight, such as between 40 and 80% by weight, more preferably between 50 and 75% by weight, and even more preferably the cohesive cold sealing compositions of the invention comprise water in an amount between 54 and 70% by weight. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 23 / 56 14 / 33 weight. Total Solids Content

[049] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention preferably has a solids content between 10 and 60% by weight, such as between 20 and 50% by weight, or more preferably between 30 and 48% by weight. Additives

[050] The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention may comprise one or more additives in an amount of up to 10% by weight, such as up to 8% by weight, preferably up to 5% by weight, more preferably up to 3% by weight, and even more preferably up to 1% by weight of one or more additives.

[051] Illustrative cold sealing adhesive compositions of the invention.

[052] The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention may comprise between 1 and 15% by weight of biodegradable resinous solids (e.g., casein and / or albumin), between 10% and 70% by weight of natural rubber solids, between 30 and 90% by weight of water, and optionally up to 5% by weight of one or more additives. The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention may comprise between 10 and 60% by weight of solids. The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention may comprise less than 30% by weight of non-biodegradable and non-compostable materials.

[053] The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise between 2 and 15% by weight of biodegradable resinous solids (e.g., casein and / or albumin), between 20% and 50% by weight of natural rubber solids, between 50 and 75% by weight of water, and optionally up to 3% by weight of one or more additives. The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention preferably comprise between Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 24 / 56 15 / 33 and 50% by weight of solids. The cold-sealing cohesive compositions of the invention preferably comprise less than 10% by weight of non-biodegradable and non-compostable materials.

[054] The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention more preferably comprise between 2 and 8% by weight of biodegradable resinous solids (e.g., casein and / or albumin), between 25% and 45% by weight of natural rubber solids, between 54 and 70% by weight of water, and optionally up to 1% by weight of one or more additives. The cohesive cold-sealing compositions of the invention more preferably comprise between 30 and 48% by weight of solids. The cohesive cold-sealing composition of the invention more preferably comprises less than 5% by weight of non-biodegradable and non-compostable materials. Structures / Substrates

[055] The invention further provides a structure comprising the cohesive cold-sealing composition of the invention on a substrate. The structure may be a printed structure further comprising an additional printed layer on the substrate. In addition, the cohesive cold-sealing composition of the invention may be printed onto the substrate. The structure of the invention may be a printed packaging structure, for example, for a food product.

[056] The structure of the invention may comprise the cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention coated onto the substrate with a dry coating weight between 1 and 10 g / m2, such as between 2 and 8 g / m2, more preferably between 3 and 6 g / m2, and even more preferably between 3 and 5 g / m2. The cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention may represent more than 1% by weight of the total mass of the structure.

[057] The substrate can have a thickness between 10 and 100 pm, as well as between 15 and 80 pm, preferably between 20 and 50 pm, and more preferably between 20 and 40 pm, as well as between 23 and 35 pm. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 25 / 56 16 / 33

[058] The substrate may be a biodegradable substrate, including cellulose, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, polylactic acid, or a substrate derived from corn, sugarcane, or bamboo. Cellulose films may be derived from natural sources, including hemp, wood, and cotton.

[059] When the substrate is compostable, the structure of the invention is compostable. For example, the structure of the invention disintegrates under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, point 6.2, ASTM D6868-19 point 6.2, or EN13432, such that no more than 50% of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the structure is compostable up to > 50%). The structure of the invention preferably disintegrates under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, point 6.2, ASTM D6868-19, point 6.2, or EN13432, such that no more than 30% of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the structure is compostable to > 70%), or, more preferably, no more than 10% of its dry weight remains after sieving through a 2.0 mm sieve (i.e., the structure is compostable to > 90%). In other words, the structure of the invention passes the test conditions described in ASTM D6400-19 (point 6.2), ASTM D6868-19 (point 6.2), or EN13432.The structure of the invention preferably passes the test conditions described in ASTM D6400-19 (point 6.2) and ASTM D6868-19 (point 6.2).

[060] The structure of the invention may be biodegradable under the conditions described in ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 or EN13432 (see point 6.3), such that at least 30% of the organic carbon present in each individual component is converted into carbon dioxide (i.e., the printed substrate is biodegradable by at least 30%). The structure of the invention preferably biodegrades under the conditions described in any of ASTM D6400-19, ASTM D6868-19 or EN13432 (see point 6.3) such that at least 50% of the organic carbon present is converted into Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, p. 26 / 56 17 / 33 carbon dioxide (i.e., the printed substrate is biodegradable by at least 50%), or more preferably at least 70% of the organic carbon present is converted into carbon dioxide (i.e., the printed substrate is biodegradable by at least 70%). The structure of the invention can be biodegradable under the conditions described in EN13432 and complies with this standard.

[061] Although it is desirable to use the cold sealing cohesive composition of the invention on compostable / biodegradable substrates, if necessary, the cold sealing cohesive composition of the invention can also be used on non-compostable and / or non-biodegradable substrates, including polyolefins such as polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polypropylene and polymethylpentene, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonates, polystyrene, nylon, polyurethanes and acrylics.

[062] The invention also provides a packaged item comprising the structure of the invention. The structure of the invention thus forms the packaging of the item. The item may be a food item, such as a heat-sensitive food item, including chocolate. The item may be a non-food, heat-sensitive item, such as a pharmaceutical item.

[063] Method for making the cohesive cold sealing composition / structure comprising the cohesive cold sealing composition.

[064] The invention further provides a method for manufacturing the cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention, comprising the steps of a) providing a natural rubber latex and a biodegradable resinous material; and b) mixing the natural rubber latex and the biodegradable resinous material in water to form the cohesive cold sealing composition.

[065] The invention also provides a method for manufacturing the packaged structure or item of the invention comprising the steps of a) Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 27 / 56 18 / 33 provide the cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention, and b) apply the cohesive cold sealing composition to a substrate to make a coated substrate. The method may further comprise the steps of c) contacting the coated substrate with a second substrate, and d) applying pressure to both substrates. The second substrate may also be coated with the cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention. The step of applying the cohesive composition to a substrate may comprise printing the cohesive cold sealing composition onto the substrate. Preferred methods include rotogravure and flexographic printing, with rotogravure being the most preferred.

[066] The invention also provides for the use of the cohesive cold sealing composition of the invention to seal packages.

[067] The present invention has been described in detail, including its preferred embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art, considering the present disclosure, may make modifications and / or improvements to this invention that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention. Examples

[068] The invention is further described by the following non-limiting examples which better illustrate the invention and are not intended to, nor should they be construed as, limiting the scope of the invention. METHODS

[069] Viscosity: Tested using DIN4 viscosity cup at 20 °C. Preferred viscosity is 15s - 25s with DIN4 at 20 °C.

[070] T-peeling test: The composition of the invention is adjusted to print viscosity (18-20 s DIN4 @ 20 °C) with water and then printed in ether onto a Natureflex™ NVS or Jindal OPPalyte™ MW247 substrate using a 12 pm red K-bar giving dry layer weights of 3.6 - 4.7 g / m2 depending on the solid content. The print samples are cut into 25 mm strips and sealed with a pressure of 276 kPa (40 psi) for Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 28 / 56 19 / 33 seconds using an RDM pneumatic double mesh crimping jaw sealer. Technical specification: Crimping jaws with a pitch of 1.8 mm / angle of 120°; jaw area 150 x 25 mm. The seals are then separated in a T-strike at room temperature (20 - 21 °C) in a Lloyd Instruments LRX tensile tester at 150 mm / min; ensuring that the “tail” is supported at a 90° angle to the vertical. The results are expressed in N / 25 mm. Desired T-strike seal strength results: Preferably between 3.0 - 5.0 N / 25 mm and more preferably between 3.5 - 5.0 N / 25 mm.

[071] Adhesion test: Approximately 100 mm of a 25 mm wide strip of Tesa 4104 adhesive tape with a 25 mm pre-folded end is carefully applied with firm finger pressure to the cold seal surface, ensuring no air bubbles are trapped. The structure is then separated in a T-peel test at room temperature (20-21 °C) on a Lloyd Instruments LRX tensile tester at 150 mm / min; ensuring the “tail” is supported at a 90° angle to the vertical. The tape (pre-folded end) is in the upper jaw; film and cold seal in the lower jaw. Results are expressed in N / 25 mm. The preferred adhesion result is > 5 N / 25 mm.

[072] Blocking test: Samples are placed in a Specac press with 10 cm diameter plates under 10 tons of pressure for 24 hours at room temperature (20-21 °C). 25 mm printed strips are cut from the samples and then separated in a T-peel test at room temperature (20-21 °C) on a Lloyd Instruments LRX tensile tester at 150 mm / min; ensuring that the “tail” is supported at a 90° angle to the vertical. Acceptable blocking is in the range of < 0.5 N / 25 mm with or without compostable removable lacquer applied to the side opposite the cold seal. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 29 / 56 20 / 33

[073] Air Entrainment Foam Test: Performed at room temperature (20 - 21 °C). 100 ml of cold seal are placed in a 500 ml measuring cylinder with an internal diameter of 5 cm. Air bubbling is generated in the sample with an Interpet Aqua Air AP4 “aquarium pump” for 5 minutes with the combined dual outlets feeding an air stone (1.5 cm diameter, 2.5 cm length) placed at the bottom of the cylinder; the increase in volume is then recorded. Maximum acceptable increase of 200 ml. The samples are then left to stand for 1 min and the new volume is recorded to assess the reduction in foam formation.

[074] Field disintegration test (compostability) in a compostable industrial facility: The Natureflex™ NVS substate film was coated with RESR736 on one side at 1.5 g dry / m2 (100% coverage) and with the composition to be tested on the other side (4 g dry / m2; 100% coverage or 50% coverage applied to the edges of the substrate sheet). The tests were then carried out at the COMPOST MANUFACTURING ALLIANCE (CMA). Samples with 100% coverage were kept as sheets, while samples with 50% coverage were cold-sealed as bags, with inventive example 2 being the sealant and the interior of the bags. Samples were tested according to ASTM D6400-19, point 6.2 and EN13432. Examples 1 to 3 and Comparative Example 4 Table 1: Composition of Inventive Examples 1-3 Material Ex. Inv. 1 Ex. Inv. 2 Ex. Inv. 3 Thai Latex (NRL) 69.625 59.625 49.625 Picassian BI-001 (casein-based dispersion) 30 40 50 Xiameter AFE-1510 (Antifoaming agent) 0.125 0.125 0.125 AF1324FG (Antifoaming agent) 0.125 0.125 0.125 Proxel BD 20 (Biocide) 0.125 0.125 0.125 Total 100 100 100 Water (viscosity adjustment) 17.5 15 19 Calculated Solids 39.4 36.0 30.6

[075] The examples have been adjusted to print the viscosity Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 30 / 56 21 / 33 (18-20 s DIN4 @ 20 °C) with water and printed using a 12 μm red K bar giving dry coating weights of 3.6 - 4.7 g / m2 depending on the solid content of the samples.

[076] Comparative Example 4 is ADHC009 (also known as Polarseal S8044 CS) and is used as a reference. S8044 is a commercial, non-compostable, high-performance cold seal based on natural rubber latex from SunChemical and is designed to provide high-level results on a wide variety of OPP films. S8044 has a solids content of 55% and a viscosity (DIN4 @ 20 °C) of 16.2s. S8044 comprises approximately 40% by weight of non-compostable material. S8044 was printed using an 8 μm grey K bar providing a dry layer weight of 4g / m2 Table 2: Peel seal strength results at T (N / 25 mm) on Natureflex™ NVS and OPPalyte™ MW247 substrates Seal strength (N / 25 mm) NVS1 External NVS inside MW2472 Treated side MW247 Untreated side Ex. Inv. 1 3.3 3.1 3.9 3.1 Ex. Inv. 2 4.3 4.0 4.5 3.5 Ex. Inv. 3 3.8 4.2 4.6 3.4 Ex. Comp. 4 S8044 3.8 3.4 4.0 4.9

[077] 1Futamura Natureflex™ NVS is a cellulose-based compostable film compatible with cold sealing. This substrate is certified compostable in industrial and domestic composting environments and is also suitable for anaerobic digestion. For testing purposes, tests were performed on both sides of the substrate (i.e., inner and outer surfaces). NatureFlex films are cellulose-based, derived from renewable wood pulp, and certified to meet European EN13432 and American ASTM D6400-19 standards for compostable packaging. NatureFlex NVS is available in thicknesses of 23 and 30 microns. The thickness of the NVS film tested was 23 microns.

[078] 2Jindal OPPalyte™ MW247 is a polypropylene film Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 31 / 56 22 / 33 biaxially oriented, white, opaque, uncoated, with printing treatment on one side and specially designed for cold sealing applications. This substrate is not compostable. Note that the work on this film was carried out for comparative purposes with the work carried out on the NVS film. MW247 with a thickness of 33 microns was used.

[079] In the treated MW247, Inventive Examples 1-3 all performed well, with seal strength within the preferred range and similar to Comparative Example 4. In the untreated MW247, Inventive Examples 1-3 all performed well, with seal strength within the preferred range. Good seal strengths were obtained in the compostable NVS film for all three Inventive Examples (similar to Comparative Example 4), with Inventive Example 2 being the most preferred due to higher seal strengths and higher solids content. Table 3: Adhesion results in NVS and MW247 (N / 25 mm) Adhesion (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Treated MW247 Untreated MW247 Ex. Inv. 1 9.4 10.4 9.4 9.9 Ex. Inv. 2 9.4 7.8 6.7 9.9 Ex. Inv. 3 8.1 6.4 6.7 10.6 Ex. Comp. 4 7.9 9.1 9.9 8.8

[080] All three Inventive Examples exhibit good adhesion on both substrates (within the preferred range), similar to Comparative Example 4. Table 4: Blocking test without removable lacquer on NVS and MW247 Example NVS external NVS internal MW247 Treated MW247 Untreated Ex. Inv. 1 0.21 0.19 3.13 3.01 Ex. Inv. 2 0.04 0.09 3.53 1.48 Ex. Inv. 3 0.05 0.04 2.72 0.49 Ex. Comp.4 1 1.2 2.2 2.3

[081] Surprisingly, the formulations of the invention release well from both sides of the compostable NVS film without release lacquer. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 32 / 56 23 / 33 with forces well below the acceptable limit of 0.5 N / 25 mm. This means that biodegradable or compostable cold seals could potentially be used in a laminated structure with reverse-printed NVS film as a release film. This would be highly advantageous, since the same cold seal could be used in both monocoque and laminated applications.

[082] Comparative Example 4 is normally used in combination with release lacquers and the high blocking values ​​observed in both substrates were expected.

[083] The formulations of the invention did not produce the same acceptable blocking results on standard MW247 film. Thus, if a user wanted to use the inventive biodegradable or compostable cold seal on a non-compostable OPP, the use of a release lacquer would probably be necessary. Table 5: Blocking with removable lacquer Blocking with RESR736 (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Treated MW247 Untreated MW247 Ex. 1 NRL: Photo 70:30 0.065 0.07 0.04 0.51 Ex. 2 NRL: Photo 60:40 0.045 0.075 0.035 0.085 Ex. Comp. 4 - S8044 0.07 0.07 0.12 0.17

[084] Patented compostable release lacquer from SunChemical RESR736 was applied with a dry layer weight of 1.6 g / m² on the opposite side before applying the various cold seals. As expected, blockage is improved with the use of the compostable release lacquer RESR736, with samples showing virtually no blockage on either film. RESR736 is a solvent-based varnish made from a biodegradable compostable polyamide resin. The solids content of the varnish is 33-35%. Table 6: Foam test by air incorporation Ex. Inv. 1 Ex. Inv. 2 Ex. Inv. 3 Time (minutes) Volume increase (ml) 5 150 170 190 Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 33 / 56 24 / 33 Ex. Inv. 1 Ex. Inv. 2 Ex. Inv. 3 Time (minutes) Volume increase (ml) Rest 5 + 1 min. 70 100 90

[085] All three inventive examples were carried out within the preferred volume increase limit of 200 ml. Less foaming is a preferred property, as foaming in the press in the duct or when the cold seal is pumped or passes through recirculation systems can negatively affect the performance and print quality.

[086] After 1 minute of rest without air bubbling through the samples, all samples showed a considerable decrease in foam volume. This is an important factor, because if the press configuration generates foam during cold sealing, it would be desirable for the foam to dissipate as quickly as possible to avoid the problems mentioned earlier.

[087] The field disintegration test in a compostable industrial facility was carried out according to the method described above using inventive example 2 as the composition to be tested. All samples meet the ASTM D6400-19 and EN13432 criteria for compostability with a recovery of less than 5% after 50 days of active composting. That is, all samples meet the criteria of point 6.2 of ASTMs D6400-19 and D6868-19, as well as the compostability test of EN13432.

[088] Performance summary: - All Inventive Examples exhibit good sealing resistance on NVS and MW247 substrates; - All Inventive Examples exhibit good adhesion to NVS and MW247 substrates; Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 34 / 56 25 / 33 - All Inventive Examples exhibit low blockage on NVS film with and without RESR736. Low blockage on OPP film is seen with release lacquer; - All inventive examples passed the air-entry foam test; - RESR736 coated with Natureflex™ NVS film on one side and with inventive example 2 on the other side meet ASTM D6400-19 (point 6.2) and EN13432 and meet compostability criteria. Inventive Examples 5-7 Table 7: Composition of examples 5 to 7 Material Ex. Inv. 5 Ex. Inv. 6 Ex. Inv. 7 Thai Latex (NRL) 70 60 50 Langro Top A (albumin-based solution) 30 40 50 Xiameter AFE-1510 (Antifoaming agent) 0.125 0.125 0.125 AF1324FG (Antifoaming agent) 0.125 0.125 0.125 Proxel BD 20 (Biocide) 0.125 0.125 0.125 Total 100 100 100 Calculated Solids 45.5 40.2 35.0

[089] Examples 5 to 7 did not require viscosity adjustment with water and were printed using a 12 or 8 pm K bar giving dry coating weights of 3.6 - 4.7 g / m2 depending on the solid content of the examples. Table 8: Peel sealing resistance results at T (N / 25 mm) on Natureflex™ NVS and Natureflex™ NP substrates Seal strength (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS NP3 Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 5 2.6 2.8 2.4 3.0 Ex. Inv. 6 2.9 2.6 3.1 3.6 Ex. Inv. 7 3.9 3.9 4.4 4.5

[090] 3Futamura Natureflex™ NP is a pure cellulose-based film. This substrate is certified compostable in industrial and domestic composting environments and is also suitable for anaerobic digestion. Results are expressed in N / 25 mm. Target results of Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 35 / 56 26 / 33 T-seal strength: Preferably 3.0 - 5.0 N / 25 mm, more preferably 3.5 - 5.0 N / 25 mm. Tests performed as described above. For testing purposes, tests were performed on both sides of the substrates (i.e., internal and external surfaces).

[091] On both substrates, Inventive Example 7 performed well, with the seal strength within the preferred range and similar to Comparative Example 4. On the other hand, Inventive Example 5 did not achieve the desired level of seal strength on both substrates, while Inventive Example 6 did not achieve the desired level of bond strength on the NVS film (preferred film for cold sealing applications) and gave an acceptable result on the NP film. Table 9: Adhesion results on Natureflex™ NVS substrates and Natureflex™ NP Adhesion (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 5 3.9 4.2 5.2 5.1 Ex. Inv. 6 4.3 5.0 8.5 7.8 Ex. Inv. 7 5.6 5.2 6.7 6.7

[092] Results are expressed in N / 25 mm. The preferred adhesion result is > 5 N / 25 mm. Tests performed as described above.

[093] Inventive Example 7 exhibits good adhesion on both substrates (within the preferred range). Inventive Examples 5 and 6 did not perform well on NVS (preferred film for cold sealing applications), but achieved good adhesion on the NP substrate. Table 10: Blocking Results in NVS and NP for the Inventive Example WITH AND WITHOUT REMOVABLE LACQUER Blocking (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 7 and without release lacquer 0.17 0.18 0.43 0.43 Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 36 / 56 27 / 33 Blocking (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 7 with RESR 736 0.08 0.10 0.13 0.10

[094] Sun Chemical's patented compostable release lacquer RESR736 was applied with a dry coating weight of 1.6 g / m² on the opposite side prior to application of Inventive Example 7. Only Inventive Example 7 was tested for blocking, as it was the overall albumin-containing system with the best performance. Tests were performed as described previously.

[095] Surprisingly, the inventive formulation Example 7 releases well from both sides of the compostable NVS and NP film without release lacquer with forces below the acceptable limit of 0.5 N / 25 mm. This means that the compostable cold seal could potentially be used in a laminated structure with reverse-printed NVS or NP films as a release film. This would be highly advantageous, since the same cold seal could be used in both monofilament and laminated applications.

[096] As expected, blocking is improved with the use of RESR736 compostable release lacquer with samples that show virtually no blocking on either film.

[097] Performance summary: - Inventive Example 7 exhibits good sealing resistance on NVS and NP substrates; - Inventive Example 7 exhibits good adhesion to NVS and NP substrates; - Inventive Example 7 exhibits low blocking in NVS and NP films with and without RESR736; Inventive Examples 5 and 6 had deficiencies and would require further modifications to meet the preferred ranges. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 37 / 56 28 / 33 performance. Table 11: Inventive Examples 8-9 Material Ex. Inv. 8 Ex. Inv. 9 Thai Latex (NRL) 60 50 CareTips 300D Solution (12.9% solids) 40 50 Xiameter AFE-1510 (Antifoaming Agent) 0.125 0.125 AF1324FG (Antifoaming Agent) 0.125 0.125 Proxel BD 20 (Biocide) 0.125 0.125 Total 100 100 Water (viscosity adjustment) 20 20 Calculated Solids 34.8 30.1

[098] CareTips 300D, produced by Lactips, is the first natural pellet made with 100% bio-based ingredients and is fully biodegradable. The pellets contain approximately 13-14% water. The 12.9% solids solution used in inventive examples 8 and 9 was prepared by dissolving, under moderate stirring at room temperature, 15% by weight of the pellets in water containing 0.5% Tego Foamex 1488 antifoaming agent and 0.125% Proxel BD 20 biocide.

[099] Examples 8 and 9 were adjusted to print viscosity (18-20 s DIN4 @ 20 °C) with water and printed using a 12 pm red K bar giving dry coating weights of 4.2 and 3.7 g / m2 depending on the solid content of the examples. Table 12: Peel sealing resistance results at T (N / 25 mm) on Natureflex™ NVS and Natureflex™ NP substrates Seal strength (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS NP Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 8 4.1 4.2 5.2 5 Ex. Inv. 9 4.7 4.4 6.2 6.4

[0100] Results are expressed in N / 25 mm. Target sealing strength results at T: Preferably 3.0 - 5.0 N / 25 mm, more Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 38 / 56 29 / 33 preferably 3.5 - 5.0 N / 25 mm. Tests performed as described previously. On both substrates, Inventive Examples 8 and 9 performed well, with sealing strengths within the preferred range or slightly higher, for example 9 on Natureflex NP, which is a favorable result. Table 13: Adhesion results on Natureflex™ NVS substrates and Natureflex™ NP Adhesion (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 8 9.3 9.1 11 9.9 Ex. Inv. 9 8.1 7.1 8.5 9.3

[0101] Results are expressed in N / 25 mm. The preferred adhesion result is > 5 N / 25 mm. Tests performed as described previously. Inventive Examples 8 and 9 exhibit good adhesion on both substrates (within the preferred range). Table 14: Blocking with removable lacquer Blocking with RESR736 (N / 25 mm) External NVS Internal NVS Outside NP Inside Ex. Inv. 8 0.045 0.05 0.04 0.045 Ex. Inv. 9 0.06 0.07 0.0 0.075

[0102] Patented compostable release lacquer from SunChemical RESR736 was applied with a dry film weight of 1.6 g / m² on the opposite side before applying the cold seals. With the use of the compostable release lacquer RESR736, examples 8 and 9 show virtually no blockage in either film. Table 15: Air Drag Foam Test performed as described previously. Ex. Inv. 8 Ex. Inv. 9 Time (minutes) Volume increase (ml) 5 140 160 Rest 5 + 1 min. 60 90

[0103] Both Inventive Examples 8 and 9 were carried out within Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 39 / 56 30 / 33 of the preferred volume increase limit of 200 ml. Less foaming is a preferred property, as foaming in the press in the duct or when the cold seal is pumped or passes through recirculation systems can negatively affect performance and print quality.

[0104] After 1 minute of rest without air bubbling through the samples, both samples showed a considerable decrease in foam volume. This is an important factor, because if the press configuration generates foam during cold sealing, it would be desirable for the foam to dissipate as quickly as possible to avoid the problems mentioned earlier.

[0105] Performance summary: - Inventive Examples 8 and 9 exhibit good sealing resistance on NVS and NP substrates; - Inventive Examples 8 and 9 exhibit good adhesion to NVS and NP substrates; - Inventive Examples 8 and 9 exhibit low blocking in NVS and NP films with RESR736; - Inventive examples 8 and 9 passed the air-entry foam test.

[0106] The invention is further described by the following numbered paragraphs which form part of the description: 1. A water-based cold-sealing cohesive composition, characterized by comprising natural latex rubber, a biodegradable resinous material, and water, wherein the printed cold-sealing adhesive applied at > 1% of the weight of a biodegradable packaging structure does not prevent disintegration into Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, pages 40 / 56 31 / 33 a composting environment; 2. The composition of paragraph 1, where the dry composition is biodegradable by > 50% absolute or relative to a reference; 3. The composition of paragraph 1, where the dry composition is biodegradable by > 70% absolute or relative to a reference; 4. The composition of paragraph 1, where the dry composition is biodegradable in > 90% absolute or relative to a reference; 5. The composition of paragraph 1, in which biodegradable resinous materials are selected from the group consisting of proteins, polymeric carbohydrates and combinations thereof; 6. The composition of paragraph 1, in which the biodegradable resinous materials are casein; 7. The composition of paragraph 1, in which the biodegradable resinous materials are albumin; 8. The composition of any preceding paragraph, further comprising one or more addenda; 9. The composition of paragraph 4, in which the additives are selected from the group consisting of antifoaming agents and biocides; 10. The composition of any preceding paragraph, wherein the T-seal pull-out strength is in the range of 3.0 - 5.0 N / 25 mm; more preferably 3.5 - 5.0 N / 25 mm; 11. The composition of any preceding paragraph, where the adhesion is in the range of > 5 N / 25 mm; 12. The composition of any preceding paragraph, wherein the blocking is in the range of < 0.5 N / 25 mm with or without a compostable release lacquer applied to the side opposite the cold seal; 13. The composition of paragraph 12, where the blocking is in the range of < 0.5 N / 25 mm with or without a compostable release lacquer applied to Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, pp. 41 / 56 32 / 33 opposite side to the cold seal after aging; 14. The composition of any preceding paragraph, where foam formation is < 200 ml; 15. The composition of any preceding paragraph, wherein the composition or structures containing the composition would pass the field test compostability protocol; 16. A printed structure comprising the composition of any one or more of paragraphs 1 to 15; 17. The structure of paragraph 16, in which the structure is a packaging structure; 18. The printed structure of paragraph 16 or 17, where the printed structure is compostable to >90%; 1. A water-based cold-sealing cohesive composition, characterized by comprising natural latex rubber, one or more compostable resinous materials, and water, wherein the composition is compostable; 2. The composition of paragraph 1, in which compostable resinous materials are selected from the group consisting of proteins, polymeric carbohydrates, long-chain hydroxy fatty acids and combinations thereof; 3. The composition of paragraph 1, in which the compostable resinous materials are casein; 4. The composition of any preceding paragraph, further comprising one or more addenda; 5. The composition of paragraph 4, in which the additives are selected from the group consisting of antifoaming agents and biocides; Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, pp. 42 / 56 33 / 33 6. The composition of any preceding paragraph, wherein the T-seal pull-out strength is in the range of 3.0 - 5.0 N / 25 mm; more preferably 3.5 - 5.0 N / 25 mm; 7. The composition of any preceding paragraph, where the adhesion is in the range of > 5 N / 25 mm; 8. The composition of any preceding paragraph, where the blocking is in the range of < 0.5 N / 25 mm; 9. The composition of any of the preceding paragraphs, where foam formation is < 200 ml. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, pages 43 / 56

Claims

1. STRUCTURE, comprising a water-based cold-seal cohesive composition on a substrate; wherein the water-based cold-seal cohesive composition comprises: (a) between 30 and 90% by weight of natural rubber latex; (b) between 1 and 30% by weight of a biodegradable resinous material, wherein the % by weight refers to the solids content of the biodegradable resinous material; wherein the biodegradable resinous material is a protein selected from the group consisting of casein, albumin, whey protein, soy protein, soy protein isolate and combinations thereof, and wherein when the biodegradable resinous material is albumin, it is present in a solids content of at least 4% by weight relative to the total weight of the water-based cold-seal cohesive composition; and (c) between 30 and 90% by weight of water;Characterized by the substrate being selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, polylactic acid and combinations thereof; wherein the cohesive cold-seal composition is applied directly to the substrate; and wherein the composition comprises less than 10% by weight of non-compostable material, wherein the non-compostable material is selected from the group consisting of acrylics, styrene acrylic, shellac-modified polystyrene, ethylene vinyl acetate, styrene butadiene, vinyl acetate, including emulsions thereof and combinations thereof.

2. STRUCTURE, according to claim 1, characterized by the biodegradable resinous material being casein. Petition 870260061643, dated 06 / 23 / 2026, page 44 / 56 2 / 5 3. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the biodegradable resinous material is albumin.

4. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized: (i) by the composition comprising less than 5% by weight of non-compostable material, such as when the composition is free of non-compostable material; and / or (ii) by the composition comprising between 1% and 20% by weight of biodegradable resinous material, such as between 2% and 15% by weight, between 2% and 10% by weight, or between 2% and 8% by weight of biodegradable resinous material, wherein the % by weight refers to the solids content of the biodegradable resinous material.

5. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized: (i) by the composition comprising between 40 and 80% by weight of natural rubber latex, such as between 45 and 70% by weight of natural rubber latex; and / or (ii) by the natural rubber latex having a solids content between 20 and 90% by weight, such as between 40 and 80% by weight, or between 50 and 70% by weight, or a solids content of 60% by weight; and / or (iii) by the composition comprising between 10 and 70% by weight of natural rubber solids, such as between 25 and 45% by weight of natural rubber solids, or between 25 and 36% by weight of natural rubber solids; and / or (iv) by the composition comprising between 50 and 75% by weight of water, or between 54 and 70% by weight of water.

6. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the composition comprising a solids content of between 10 and 60% by weight, such as between 20 and 50% by weight, or between 30 and 48% by weight of solids content.

7. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the composition further comprises one or more additives.

8. STRUCTURE, according to claim 7, characterized in that the additives are selected from the group consisting of antifoaming agents, biocides and combinations thereof; and / or in that one or more additives are present in the composition in an amount of up to 10% by weight, such as up to 8% by weight, up to 5% by weight, up to 3% by weight or up to 1% by weight.

9. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized: (i) by the structure being a packaging structure; and / or (ii) by the substrate being cellulose.

10. STRUCTURE, according to claim 9, characterized in that the substrate is selected from substrates derived from corn, sugarcane or bamboo and combinations thereof.

11. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the substrate further comprises a printing layer.

12. PACKAGED ITEM, characterized by comprising the structure as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. PACKAGED ITEM, according to claim 12, characterized in that the item is a food item, such as a heat-sensitive food item.

14. STRUCTURE, according to any one of claims 1 to 11, or packaged item, according to claim 12, Petition 870260061643, dated 23 / 06 / 2026, p. 46 / 56 4 / 5 characterized: (i) the cohesive cold sealing composition being coated onto the substrate with a dry coating weight between 1 and 10 g / m2, such as between 2 and 8 g / m2, between 3 and 6 g / m2, or between 3 and 5 g / m2; and / or (ii) the substrate having a thickness between 20 and 50 µm, such as between 20 and 40 µm, or between 23 and 35 µm.

15. METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE STRUCTURE, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11 or 14, or the packaged item, as defined in any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by comprising the steps of: (a) providing the cohesive cold sealing composition, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7; (b) applying the cohesive cold sealing composition to a substrate to produce a coated substrate.

16. METHOD, according to claim 15, characterized by the step of providing the cohesive cold sealing composition comprising the steps of: (i) providing a natural rubber latex and a biodegradable resinous material; and (ii) mixing the natural rubber latex and the biodegradable resinous material in water to form the cohesive cold sealing composition.

17. METHOD, according to any one of claims 15 to 16, characterized by: (i) further comprising the step of: (c) contacting the coated substrate with a second substrate; and then (d) applying pressure to the substrates; and / or (ii) the step of applying the cold cohesive sealing composition to a substrate comprising printing the cold cohesive sealing composition onto the substrate.

18. METHOD, according to claim 17, characterized in that, before step (c), the second substrate is also coated with the cold sealing cohesive composition, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7.

19. USE OF A COHESIVE COLD SEALING COMPOSITION, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it is for sealing packaging, wherein the packaging comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of cellulose, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, polylactic acid and combinations thereof; wherein the cohesive cold sealing composition is applied directly to the substrate.