Compostable top lid structure for a beverage preparation capsule.

Abstract

The invention concerns a capsule (100) for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine, wherein the capsule (100) comprises: - a capsule body (200) comprising a sidewall (210) delimiting a chamber (250) for containing a substance (500) for the preparation of the beverage, and a rim portion (211) delimiting an opening (230) in the sidewall (210); - an injection wall (220) for injecting a fluid in the chamber (250) for preparing the beverage upon interaction of the fluid with the substance (500); and - a delivery wall (300) being connected to the capsule body (200), preferably to the rim portion (211), to close the chamber (250), the delivery wall (300) comprising in a layered manner: o a carrier layer (320) made of a biodegradable material, the carrier layer (320) being adapted to be opened under the effect of rising pressure of the fluid being injected into the capsule (100), and o a filter layer (310) made of a biodegradable material for filtering out particles from the prepared beverage dispensed via the delivery wall (300), wherein the delivery wall (300) comprises, on its surface that is oriented towards the chamber (250), an adhesive layer (330), applied in one or more layer, which covers a maximum of 90% of the surface of the delivery wall (300) and which at least extends all around the perimeter of the delivery wall (300), along its periphery, over a radial distance radial D comprised between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm.

Description

1 / 40 Compostable top lid structure for a beverage preparation capsule. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine and to a use of the capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine. BACKGROUND

[0002] Single-serving beverage capsules for beverage preparation machines are known in the art. These capsules are commonly used for on-demand dispensing of beverages such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and are popular due to their fresh taste, variety of flavors, and convenience of beverage preparation.

[0003] Typically, a capsule containing a beverage component is inserted into a capsule holder of a beverage preparation machine. The capsule holder is then closed, and beverage preparation begins. Fluid, such as water or milk, is released into the capsule to interact with the beverage component inside to produce the desired beverage. When a sufficient amount of fluid fills the capsule, the capsule opens under fluid pressure to release the prepared beverage. For example, opening the capsule can be achieved by pressing an extraction face of the capsule with a force exerted by increasing the fluid pressure inside the capsule against an opening structure provided in the capsule holder, so that the extraction face is torn upon reaching a rupture stress.The opening structure can be composed of various raised and recessed elements, for example, pyramid-shaped elements, in which the extraction face extends and tears under the effect of the internal fluid pressure. This pressure-controlled beverage preparation has the advantage of... Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 8 / 67 2 / 40 can produce a high-quality beverage.

[0004] However, a high number of parameters and dynamic effects can influence the capsule opening process on the extraction face with the aforementioned opening structure, and thus, repeatability and consistency in the opening process are difficult to obtain, which can have a negative impact on the result of the finished beverage.

[0005] In particular, it has been found that the extraction face needs to exhibit a certain amount of rigidity to ensure pressure buildup in the capsule while preventing its collapse during the opening process. On the other hand, the extraction face must be configured so that it can be torn by the opening structure during the opening process. Furthermore, it is desirable that particles and fibers of the beverage component be retained within the capsule to prevent not only contamination of the prepared beverage, but also obstruction of openings in the capsule and / or the opening structure, which are provided to dispense the prepared beverage out of the beverage preparation machine.

[0006] In the prior art, these technical challenges are addressed by forming the extraction face of a membrane made of aluminum with a very precisely controlled thickness, in particular, of about 30 to 40 micrometers. Aluminum offers several advantages, such as high pressure resistance, durability, flexibility, low weight, long shelf life, and the ability to leave the taste of the prepared beverage unchanged. In addition to aluminum capsules, some consumers expect capsules made of alternative materials and, in particular, capsules made of compostable material.

[0007] Therefore, several attempts have recently been made to replace the aluminum material used in capsules with alternative materials. For example, bioplastics made from corn starch or dried pulp made from sugarcane fiber have been proposed for Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 9 / 67 3 / 40 are being used as capsule materials. However, a disadvantage of these materials is that they do not have the same material properties as currently used materials, such as aluminum. For example, capsules made from alternative materials often have a limited lifespan because they do not provide the same reliable oxygen and moisture barrier as aluminum.

[0008] In particular, the design of an extraction face with alternative materials appears to be challenging, since it is not possible to simply transfer the solutions and design principles applied to the previous aluminum extraction face to these new materials. Approaches that, for example, simply replace the known aluminum-based extraction face with a paper-based material have proven unsuccessful because the quality of the prepared beverages, the reproducibility of flavors, and the beverage consistency are not comparable to the high standards set by known aluminum-based extraction faces.

[0009] Additionally, even though some attempts to provide alternative compostable capsules are beginning to be successful, the structure and design of the capsule's top cap membrane are still a challenge, as the capsule membrane needs to integrate materials that allow for a tight seal to the capsule rim while still having a structure and related materials that allow it to be opened by the opening mechanism of the beverage preparation machine during the capsule opening process.

[0010] Therefore, it is an objective of the present invention to provide a capsule with a configuration and design that facilitates the use of compostable materials for the entire capsule, which maintains and / or exceeds, at the same time, the quality and continuity standards of the capsule itself and the prepared beverage, as defined by a comparable aluminum capsule. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 10 / 67 4 / 40

[0011] These and other objectives, which become evident from reading the description, are resolved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the invention. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] As used herein, the term machine or device may refer to an electrically operated device that: can prepare, from a precursor material, a beverage and / or a foodstuff; or can prepare, from a pre-precursor material, a precursor material that can be subsequently prepared into a beverage and / or a foodstuff. The machine may implement said preparation by one or more of the following processes: dilution; heating; pressurization; cooling; mixing; beating; dissolution; wetting; maceration; extraction; conditioning; infusion; grinding and other similar processes. The machine may be sized for use on a work surface, for example, it may be less than 70 cm in length, width and height.As used herein, the term "prepare" in relation to a beverage and / or a foodstuff may refer to the preparation of at least part of the beverage and / or foodstuff (for example, a beverage is prepared by said machine in its entirety, or prepared in part, to which the end user may manually add additional fluid before consumption, including milk and / or water). Preferably, in the present invention, the beverage extraction device is an extraction machine from the Nespresso Original line, as described, for example, in one or more of documents EP0512468A1, EP0512470A1, EP1654966A1 or EP2142054A1.

[0013] The Nespresso® Original line system, when used with an aluminum capsule, is disclosed together with its opening system, for example, in one or more of the documents EP0512468A1, EP0512470A1, EP1646305A1 or EP1165398A1. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 11 / 67 5 / 40 These references also reveal details of the construction, manufacture, and / or extraction (of beverage) of such aluminum capsules and / or closing members.

[0014] In such a system, the capsule is intended to be inserted into an extraction device, in which it can be pierced and injected with a fluid that passes through the coffee bed contained in the capsule. The capsule is then opened against a support part of the device comprising elevated elements (in the form of truncated pyramids) under the effect of the pressure of the fluid that enters and rises in the capsule.

[0015] As used herein, the term container or capsule may refer to any configuration for containing the precursor material, for example, as a single, pre-portioned quantity. The container may have a maximum capacity so that it can only hold a single portion of precursor material. The container may be for single use, for example, it is physically altered after a preparation process, which may include one or more actions among: perforation to supply fluid, for example, a liquid such as water, to the precursor material; perforation to supply the beverage / food product from the container; opening by a user to extract the precursor material. The container may be configured for operation with a machine container processing unit, for example, it may include a flange for alignment and direction of the container or arrangement in said unit.The container may include a rupture portion, which is designed to rupture when subjected to a specific pressure to dispense the beverage / food item. The container may have a membrane to close the container. The container may have various shapes, including one or more of the following: frustoconical; cylindrical; disc; hemispherical and other similar shapes. The container may be formed from various materials, such as metal-based or plastic-based materials or wood pulp or a combination thereof. As a preference, in the present invention, the... Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 12 / 67 6 / 40 container is a compostable capsule, preferably made of cellulose, and preferably made as a molded capsule from wood pulp or cellulose. The material may be selected so that it is food safe; can withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container may be defined as a capsule, and a capsule may have an internal volume of 20 to 100 ml. The capsule includes a coffee capsule, for example, a Nespresso® capsule (including a capsule from the Classic / Original, Professional line or other capsule).

[0016] As used herein, the term beverage or food preparation system or system may refer to the combination of any two or more of the following: the beverage or food preparation machine; the container; the serving system and the peripheral device.

[0017] As used herein, the term beverage may refer to any substance capable of being processed into a potable substance, which may be chilled or heated. The beverage may be one or more of the following: a solid; a liquid; a gel; a paste. The beverage may include one or a combination of: tea; coffee; hot chocolate; milk; fruit syrup; vitamin composition; tea / infusion; infused / flavored water, and another substance. As used herein, the term foodstuff may refer to any substance capable of being processed into an edible nutrient, which may be chilled or heated. The foodstuff may be one or more of the following: a solid; a liquid; a gel; a paste. The foodstuff may include yogurt; mousse; parfait; soup; ice cream; sorbet; cream; fruit vitamins; another substance.It will be recognized that there is a degree of overlap between the definitions of a beverage and a foodstuff; for example, a beverage can also be a foodstuff, and thus a machine that is said to prepare a beverage or a foodstuff does not exclude the preparation of both. As a preference, the beverage is coffee, which includes roasted coffee and... Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 13 / 67 7 / 40 ground.

[0018] As used herein, the term precursor material or ingredient may refer to any material capable of being processed to form part or all of the beverage or foodstuff. The precursor material may be one or more of the following: a powder; a crystal; a liquid; a gel; a solid; and other. Examples of a beverage-forming precursor material include ground coffee; powdered milk; tea leaves; cocoa powder; vitamin composition; herbs, for example, to form a herbal blend / infusion; a flavoring; and other similar material. Examples of a food-forming precursor material include dried vegetables or broth as anhydrous soup powder; powdered milk; flour-based powders including cream; yogurt or ice cream powder; and other similar material.A precursor material may also refer to any pre-precursor material capable of being processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can be subsequently processed into a beverage and / or a foodstuff. For example, the pre-precursor material includes coffee beans that can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) to the precursor material. Preferably, in the extraction process disclosed, the precursor material is roasted and ground coffee.

[0019] As used herein, the term fluid (in relation to the fluid supplied by a fluid conditioning system) may include one or more liquids, for example, water; milk; others.

[0020] As used herein, the term wood pulp-based may refer to the material or a portion of the material that forms the container which is one or more of the following: porous; fibrous; cellulosic; formed of cellulosic material; formed of natural cellulosic material; formed of reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material; nonwoven; is composed entirely of, or is a composition of, wood pulp; and is formed by wet processing. A thickness of the wood pulp-based material Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 14 / 67 8 / 40 wood can be 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm or approximately 0.5 mm. The wood-based material can be 200 to 400 gsm.

[0021] As used herein, the term nonwoven can refer to a fabric-like material that is not woven or knitted. A nonwoven material can be produced from fibers connected to each other. As used herein, the term porous can refer to a material configured with interstices to transmit water (or other liquid) through it. As used herein, the term fibrous can refer to a material comprised of fibers, which may be present in one or more of the material's constituents. As used herein, the term cellulosic or cellulosic material can refer to conventionally woody and / or non-woody materials, for example, Manila hemp, sisal, jute, bleached and unbleached softwood, and hardwood species. A cellulosic material may include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. As used herein, the term natural cellulosic material can refer to conventionally woody materials that are not regenerated.As used herein, the term reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material may refer to a natural cellulosic material undergoing processing comprising reconstitution or regeneration; examples include rayon and lyocell. As used herein, the term wood pulp may refer to a fibrous lignocellulosic material, which may be prepared by mechanical or chemical separation of cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber cultures, papers, or rags. As used herein, the term wet-formed may refer to a process of forming an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers may be heated and pressed into a mold to shape the material and remove water from it.

[0022] The capsule of the invention has the same design as the capsules in the Nespresso® Original line and is made entirely (capsule body and release wall) of compostable material, preferably, Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 15 / 67 9 / 40 of cellulose-based material; more preferably, of cellulose-based material molded from pulp. The capsule is in the shape of a frustoconical cup and has, for example, a diameter of 2 to 5 cm and an axial length of 2 to 4 cm.

[0023] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the capsule may have other cross-sectional shapes, including square, other polygons or elliptical; the closing member may be rigid or other non-membrane formation; the flange is alternatively connected to the upper surface of the closing member, for example, by crimping; the side wall is alternatively arranged, including with reverse tapering or is aligned with the depth direction, or is curved; the base is alternatively arranged, including with a flat or curved base; the flange portion is connected to the storage portion instead of being integrally formed; the closing member is arranged as a storage portion, for example, it comprises a cavity; and the flange portion is omitted, for example, the closing member connects directly to the storage portion.

[0024] A first aspect of the invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine. In these aspects, the invention provides a capsule according to claim 1.

[0025] In more detail, the capsule can be understood as a receptacle for containing a substance to prepare a beverage and, preferably, can form a box or container that surrounds the substance. The capsule body delimits, with its side wall (at least part of), a chamber, which can be a compartment, a cavity, or a hollow space in the capsule, for example. The capsule body also comprises a rim portion that delimits an opening in the side wall. The capsule further comprises a suitable injection wall. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 16 / 67 10 / 40 to inject a fluid into the chamber. The injection of the fluid may lead to an interaction of the fluid with the substance, which may include any type of chemical and / or physical reaction between the substance and the fluid, such as wetting, infusion, extraction, dissolution and / or any other type of corresponding interaction to produce a beverage product. The capsule further comprises a release wall that is connected to the capsule body to close the chamber. For example, it may be conceivable that a space within the capsule may be (completely) surrounded on all sides by the container body (side wall), the injection wall and the release wall, preferably so that the chamber to receive the substance is formed (and closed). Thus, a capsule may be provided that can be filled with a substance to prepare a beverage and used with known capsule machines.The substance can be protected against degradation and external influences, such as oxidation or moisture, and the substance's flavors can be maintained within the capsule even when stored for extended periods.

[0026] The release wall of the invention comprises, in a layered manner, a support layer and a filter layer. Thus, the release wall can comprise different parts that are arranged in sheets, plates, layers, or as strata. Therefore, it is possible to provide the release wall with an arbitrary number of layers, each of which can provide a desired functionality, such as, for example, a layer for sealing, (an additional layer) to form a barrier (against moisture / oxygen), and / or to purify and / or filter certain particles or contents of the prepared beverage before the prepared beverage exits the capsule (chamber), as with the filter layer. In this respect, the release wall can have various configurations (of layers), shapes, and forms.Furthermore, the support layer is provided in such a way that it can be opened under the effect of the increasing pressure of the fluid that is injected into the capsule, for example, by interaction with opening elements. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 17 / 67 11 / 40 (for example, from the beverage production machine) and by relative movement between the respective elements. In this, the opening elements can have various configurations, shapes and formats and can comprise a plurality of relief and recessed elements, for example pyramid-like elements. This design makes it possible to adapt the design of the release wall to the technical needs.

[0027] Each of the filter layer and the support layer is made of a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material. This can lead to easier recovery of the organic material inside the capsule, as well as the capsule material itself.

[0028] According to the invention, the release wall comprises, on its surface that is oriented towards the chamber, an adhesive layer, applied in one or more layers, to seal the release wall to the capsule body.

[0029] The adhesive layer covers a maximum of 90% of the surface of the release wall and extends at least around the entire perimeter of the release wall, along its periphery, over a radial distance D between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the filter layer is provided opposite the chamber in relation to the support layer. This particular order and orientation of the support layer and the filter layer in relation to the capsule body leads to a number of improvements. For example, it is observed that the pressure profile during beverage preparation is more consistent and reproducible. In addition, better crema formation and extraction, and a reduced concentration of particles and residues of the substance, for example, roasted and ground coffee, is found in the beverage with this configuration.

[0031] As a result of the above, the support layer may face the camera or may be placed closer to the Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 18 / 67 12 / 40 camera than the filter layer. In this, for example, the expression "aimed at" can be understood as being directed at the respective reference object without necessarily having to be provided directly in the respective reference object.

[0032] Returning to the characteristics of the adhesive layer, the adhesive layer preferably covers a maximum of 70% of the surface of the release wall, more specifically of the support layer, more preferably a maximum of 50%, even more preferably a maximum of 30%, with the most preference a maximum of 20% of the surface of the release wall, more specifically of the support layer.

[0033] The specific location of the adhesive layer, at least around the entire perimeter of the support layer, allows for its efficient sealing on the rim portion of the capsule body, and its limited extension onto the surface of the release wall support layer ensures that the release wall opens correctly and interacts with the opening elements of the beverage preparation machine without physical and / or chemical interference.

[0034] The direct interaction of the support layer with the opening elements with limited presence of the adhesive layer allows for a more effective opening of the release wall and efficient control of the coffee beverage extraction.

[0035] According to an additional resource, the adhesive layer covers between 15% and 90% of the surface of the release wall, preferably the support layer, preferably between 15% and 70%, more preferably between 15% and 50%, still more preferably between 15% and 30% of the surface of the release wall, more specifically the support layer.

[0036] Limiting the adhesive layer to the surface of the support layer allows for better control of the release wall opening. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 19 / 67 13 / 40 release wall during capsule extraction in the beverage preparation machine.

[0037] With the proposed configuration and, especially, when the surface of the release wall covered by the adhesive layer is low (below 50% of the surface of the support layer), the opening of the release wall is improved and a better and more uniform extraction result can be achieved.

[0038] The surface of the release wall (or support layer) covered by the adhesive layer may be limited to the periphery / perimeter of the release wall (or support layer) with an extension of a radial distance D from the edge of the perimeter of the release wall (or support layer).

[0039] As mentioned, each of the filter layer and the support layer is made of a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material.

[0040] In this context, the term biodegradable material can be understood as any material that can be decomposed into environmentally harmless products by (the action of) living things (such as microorganisms, for example, bacteria, fungi or algae). This process can occur in an environment with the presence of oxygen (aerobic) and / or, otherwise, without the presence of oxygen (anaerobic). This can be understood, for example, as meaning that composting can be carried out without reservations. In particular, at the end of a composting process, there are no material residues, which can be problematic for the environment, or any non-biodegradable components.

[0041] Examples of biodegradable materials can be different plant-based materials, such as wood, bamboo, bamboo fibers, cellulose, cellulose pulp, wood pulp, sugarcane pulp, paper and / or cardboard. In addition, families of bioplastics such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 20 / 67 14 / 40 (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polylactide (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), cellulose acetate, starch and / or compounds of the aforementioned materials are other examples.

[0042] International standards, for example, EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400 specifies technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of a material. Biodegradation can be tested following standards such as ISO 14855, ISO 17556, or ISO 14851. For example, one test requires that, to be considered industrially compostable, at least 90% of the material in question must be biologically degraded under controlled conditions within 6 months. A similar test also exists to enable the certification of home composting.

[0043] According to a proposed feature, the adhesive layer, which is applied in one or more layers, is preferably a sealing layer to seal the outer periphery of the release wall support layer in the rim portion of the capsule body and the sealing layer has a total thickness between 1 and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 and 15 micrometers.

[0044] The total thickness of the (at least one) adhesive layer(s) is limited when compared to the thickness of the backing layer, which can vary between 10 and 150 micrometers, preferably 30 to 70 micrometers.

[0045] In a preferred feature, the adhesive layer is hydrophobic.

[0046] Furthermore, the adhesive layer is non-water-soluble to avoid any interaction with the moisture content of the beverage substance. In fact, the beverage substance, which is preferably roasted and ground coffee, has a resulting moisture content between 2 and 4%, and it is mandatory to prevent this moisture from reacting with and degrading the adhesive layer. In this way, the adhesive layer remains intact. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 21 / 67 15 / 40

[0047] Similar to the support layer and the filter layer, the adhesive layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material. For example, the adhesive layer could be a starch or vegetable acrylic adhesive.

[0048] Preferably, the adhesive layer is made of a different material from the filter layer and / or the support layer. In general, this can lead to the advantageous effect that the combination of two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties produces a structure with different and additional characteristics originating from each of the individual components.

[0049] In particular, the material forming the adhesive layer is applied in one or more adhesive layers in a total amount of between 5 and 20 gsm (g per m2), at least around the entire perimeter of the release wall, preferably the backing layer, to provide sufficient adhesive material for a complete seal of the perimeter of the release wall on the rim portion of the capsule.

[0050] In addition, the release wall may comprise additional layers beyond the filter layer, the support layer, and the adhesive layer. These additional layers may be interspersed between the filter layer, the support layer, and the adhesive layers as needed and depending on their function.

[0051] According to an additional feature, the release wall, preferably the backing layer, further comprises a barrier layer to provide a preferably bidirectional barrier against moisture and / or oxygen, which extends between the backing layer and the adhesive layer. The barrier layer may be applied in one or more layers.

[0052] Additionally, the barrier layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as biopolymers or polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a vinyl alcohol-butenediol copolymer, Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 22 / 67 16 / 40 copolymers or polymers where at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol and compounds or laminates of the aforementioned materials

[0053] Preferably, the barrier layer is made of a different material from the filter layer and / or the support layer, since the expected physical-chemical properties of the barrier layer are the protection of the substance enclosed in the chamber against moisture and / or oxygen and not any filtering or retention properties.

[0054] The release wall, preferably the support layer, additionally comprises a protective layer that extends between the support layer, preferably the barrier layer, and the adhesive layer. This ensures that the barrier layer is fully protected.

[0055] The protective layer can be applied in one or more layers and is preferably non-water-soluble to prevent its degradation by the moisture content of the substance contained in the chamber. The protective layer is preferably made of a different material from the filter layer and / or the support layer to ensure proper separation of the physicochemical properties of the different layers.

[0056] The protective layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as vegetable starch or acrylic polymers.

[0057] The support layer and the filter layer are at least partially joined to each other on opposite sides of the same layer, preferably by adhesive bonding or heat bonding. At least one bonding layer is preferably provided between the support layer and the filter layer to ensure efficient adhesion of the two aforementioned layers.

[0058] The bonding layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as starch or vegetable acrylic adhesive, and Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 23 / 67 17 / 40 participates in the biodegradable properties of the complete capsule.

[0059] The filter layer is made of a compostable and / or nonwoven material, such as wood pulp or sugarcane, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0060] To ensure efficient filtration of any particles of the substance enclosed in the capsule chamber, for example, roasted and ground coffee, it is proposed that the filter layer have a basis weight between 10 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 20 and 100 g / m2.

[0061] Thus, the characteristics of the filter layer can be defined by defining its material area density, i.e., mass per unit area. For example, the tensile strength of the filter layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of its material and / or by using a (non-woven) material comprising fibers of a defined length and / or with a defined fiber bond. Furthermore, the filtration capacity and / or porosity of the filter layer can be modified, for example, by reducing to smaller particle diameters, by defining the material characteristics of the filter layer accordingly. Thus, it is possible to adapt the filter layer to the specific requirements of beverage preparation.

[0062] The backing layer is made of a compostable material and / or has a defined fiber structure, preferably closed, such as fiber structures with at least 50% by weight corresponding to softwood pulp, cellulose fibers, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyesters, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polymers where at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol, compounds and / or laminates of Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 24 / 67 18 / 40 materials mentioned above.

[0063] Preferably, the support layer has a basis weight between 20 and 150 gsm (g / m2), preferably between 30 and 100 gsm (g / m2).

[0064] Additionally, the support layer, preferably the support layer material, is configured so that it is resilient against a pressure accumulated in the chamber between 1 and 20 bar, more preferably between 10 and 20 bar, and most preferably between 12 and 18 bar.

[0065] Thus, the characteristics of the support layer can be defined by defining its material area density. For example, the tensile strength of the support layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of its material.

[0066] Preferably, the different layers that form the release wall, namely the filter layer, the bonding layer, the support layer, the barrier layer, the protective layer and the adhesive layer, which may each be formed by one or more layers, are made of different biodegradable, preferably compostable, materials.

[0067] The different materials may preferably be distinguished in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0068] By providing at least the aforementioned support layer and filter layer of two different materials, it is possible to provide the release wall as a composite structure. However, it is also conceivable that the release wall may comprise multiple different layers, which may preferably be produced from different materials. This may lead to the advantageous effect that the combination of the two or more constituent materials with Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 25 / 67 19 / 40 different physical or chemical properties produce a structure with different characteristics for each of the individual components. Thus, the capsule interface to the exterior can be adapted to the technical needs of the application. For example, by providing each of the layers with a different tensile strength, the pressure accumulated inside the capsule can be controlled and defined as needed. Thus, for example, the capsule can be designed to produce a beverage according to the specifications of its recipe. Furthermore, by providing the two material layers with a different fiber configuration, it is possible to adapt the material characteristics relevant to the interaction of the release wall with the prepared beverage for the individual application, such as defining the filtration capabilities of the release wall.Furthermore, the difference in orientation of the individual layers of the release wall can lead to different stresses in the layers, which can be taken into account with the above configuration by selecting different materials. For example, the material of one layer may break at a lower pressure than the material of another layer, but the structure can be held together by the combined strength of each material, which can support each other under the effect of pressure.

[0069] The proposed capsule body and / or injection wall comprise a layered and / or laminated structure, and preferably the capsule body and / or injection wall are made of laminated molded pulp fiber, and / or the capsule body and injection wall are made of separate pieces or are integrally formed, for example, as a single piece. This opens up different manufacturing options for the capsule body and / or injection wall.

[0070] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a system for preparing a beverage comprising a capsule. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 26 / 67 20 / 40 as described above and a beverage production machine.

[0071] The proposed system utilizes a beverage production machine with a fluid dispensing device capable of supplying the capsule with a quantity of fluid, such as water, at a pressure between 2 bar and 20 bar at a first end of the capsule, and with a straining chamber comprising a first part for housing the capsule and a second part for closing the straining chamber. The second part of the straining chamber comprises a capsule holder comprising an opening structure (with opening elements) for engaging with the capsule at the second end of the side wall when the straining chamber holding the capsule is closed. The opening structure comprises a relief and a recessed surface facing, in use, the release wall, preferably the filter layer of the capsule.

[0072] According to the proposed embodiment, the release wall, preferably the filter layer of the capsule, when used in the closed straining chamber, is opened with a reduced tear by the embossed and recessed surface of the opening structure, when compared with a capsule comprising an aluminum release wall.

[0073] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a capsule as described above to prepare a beverage in a beverage production machine that has a capsule holder. Thus, a beverage can be prepared in an advantageous and environmentally beneficial manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The invention will be further described with reference to the following examples. It will be acknowledged that the invention, as claimed, is not intended to be limited in any way by these examples. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 27 / 67 21 / 40

[0075] The embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail by means of examples with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic exploded view of a capsule, according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic exploded view of a capsule, according to another embodiment of the invention. Figure 3 shows an enlarged schematic cross-section of a section of the release wall of the beverage container from Figure 2. Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of the release wall of the beverage container of the invention according to a first embodiment. Figure 5 shows a schematic top view of the release wall of the beverage container of the invention according to a second embodiment. Figure 6 shows a schematic top view of the release wall of the beverage container of the invention according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] As used in this descriptive report, the words includes, including, and similar words should not be interpreted in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean including, but are not limited to that meaning.

[0077] Any reference to prior art documents in this descriptive report should not be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or that it forms part of the common and general knowledge in the field of the art.

[0078] The figures show different views and aspects of a Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 28 / 67 22 / 40 capsule 100 of the present invention for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine according to the present invention. Figures 1, 2, 4 to 6 show different aspects and embodiments of the capsule, and Figure 3 shows the proposed structure of one of the capsule elements of the present invention. The capsule

[0079] Capsule 100 may have a composite structure and / or may be made of a composite material, which may preferably and entirely consist of biodegradable and / or compostable materials.

[0080] Capsule 100 comprises a capsule body 200 with a side wall 210. The capsule body 200 may have any shape or form. For example, the capsule body 200 may have a shape that is suitable for capsule 100 being inserted into a capsule holder of a beverage production machine (known), for example, a Nespresso® beverage production machine. The capsule body 200 may have a frustoconical, truncated, bowl-shaped or cup-shaped form. The capsule body 200 may have a circular cross-section. Thus, for example, forces related to pressure exerted on the capsule body 200 may be absorbed.

[0081] The capsule body 200 comprises a side wall 210. The side wall 210 delimits a chamber 250 within the capsule 100. The side wall 210 can be provided so that it encloses a continuous space within the body of the capsule 100. This is shown by way of example in Figure 1.

[0082] Chamber 250 is arranged to receive and store a substance 500 for the preparation of the beverage. In it, substance 500 is a precursor or ingredient of a beverage and / or foodstuff and can be any type of matter (solid, liquid, at least partially soluble and / or percolable) of a chemical constitution Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 29 / 67 23 / 40 specific or defined. Examples for substances 500 may be roasted ground coffee, instant coffee, tea leaves, syrup concentrate, fruit extract concentrate, a chocolate product, dehydrated edible substances and / or combinations thereof that depend on the extraction process taking place. Consequently, examples for beverages that may be prepared may be coffee or chocolate-based drinks, or other similar types of food. However, the above examples for substance 500 and beverages should not be seen as a complete enumeration. Instead, several other examples are conceivable.

[0083] The body of capsule 200 may have an opening 230 for chamber 250. The opening 230 may be at at least one of the opposite ends of the body of capsule 200. For example, the interior of capsule 100 may be filled with substance 500 through opening 230. Substance 500 may completely fill chamber 250. However, there may be a free space between opening 230 and the level filling substance 500, which may be filled with an inert gas to keep substance 500 cool. Preferably, a rim portion 211 of the side wall 210 may delimit the opening 230. The rim portion 211 may be flange-shaped and extend from the side wall 210, preferably in the opposite direction to the chamber 250. In operation, the capsule 100 may be placed on the rim portion 211 within a capsule holder of a beverage production machine.

[0084] The side wall 210 can be provided so that it forms a continuous blanket surface of the capsule body 200. For example, the side wall 210 can have an inner surface facing chamber 250 and an outer surface facing the opposite side of chamber 250.

[0085] A 400 protective film to provide a barrier, of Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 30 / 67 24 / 40 bidirectional protection against moisture and / or oxygen for substance 500 may be provided on the capsule body 200 and / or on the side wall 210. In Figure 1, the protective film 400 is, by way of example, illustrated as being provided as a lining on the inner surface of the side wall 210, which may extend to and over the rim portion 211. The protective film 400 may additionally or alternatively be provided on the outer surface of the side wall 210. Additionally or alternatively, the protective layer may be provided as a coating that has similar barrier properties.In this regard, protective film 400 can be made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as biopolymers or bioplastic families like PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PLA, PBAT, cellulose acetate, starch, PVOH, and it can include polymers where at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol, as well as compounds or laminates of any of the aforementioned materials. Preferably, protective film 400 can be made from a food-safe material (FCS, FCMs).

[0086] For example, the body of capsule 200 can be made of molded (wet / dry) (laminated) pulp fiber. Preferably, the body of capsule 200 can be made of a biodegradable and / or compostable material. The body of capsule 200 can be made of a food-safe material (FCS, FCMs). The body of capsule 200 can comprise a layered and / or laminated structure. For example, the body of capsule 200 can be relatively rigid or stiff so as not to collapse during operation in a beverage production machine or during storage. The layered and / or laminated design can endow the body of capsule 200 with additional rigidity and / or firmness compared to other designs. In this, the molded pulp fiber can be a composite that has an additional substrate, such as biodegradable resin, laminated to the body of capsule 200. For example, a laminated structure of the body of capsule 200 can be created with the Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 31 / 67 25 / 40 supply of the protective film 400 over the same. However, it is also conceivable that the capsule body 200 may comprise, for example, in addition to the protective film 400, an additional laminated film or layer.

[0087] Alternatively, the body of capsule 200 may be made of paper-based material or of a paper-based material with a laminate, specifically shaped to enclose a chamber 250.

[0088] Capsule 100 comprises an injection wall 220 for injecting a fluid into chamber 250 to prepare the beverage by interaction of the fluid with substance 500. This is illustrated by way of example in Figure 1.

[0089] The injection wall 220 can be provided at an opposite end of the capsule body 200 from the opening 230. The injection wall 220 can be provided integrally or separately from the capsule body 200. Therefore, the capsule body 200 and the injection wall 220 can be made of separate parts or can be integrally formed as a single piece. The injection wall 220 can form a tapered end portion of the capsule body 200. The injection wall 220 can be configured to be perforated by blades of the coffee production machine so that the blades provide openings for fluid injection. Preferably, the fluid can be a liquid or a liquid / gas mixture, such as water or milk. Like the capsule body 200, the injection wall 220 can also comprise the protective film 400 described above.It is also conceivable that the injection wall 220 may comprise (small) openings through which blades from the coffee production machine may enter and pierce the protective film 400. Similar to the capsule body 200, the injection wall 220 may comprise a layered and / or laminated structure and may be made of molded (laminated) pulp fiber and / or a food-safe material (FCS, FCMs). Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 32 / 67 26 / 40

[0090] The capsule body 200 and the injection wall 220 can be provided so that the chamber 250 is closed (sealed), preferably on at least three sides, as shown in Figure 1. The capsule body 200 and the injection wall 220 can be provided so that the injected fluid is uniformly dispersed in the chamber 250 along the side wall 210. The liberation wall

[0091] Capsule 100 comprises a release wall 300, which is connected to capsule body 200 to close chamber 250. This is, by way of example, shown in Figure 1.

[0092] The 300 release wall is provided in a layered manner and comprises a support layer and a filter layer. In Figure 1, the structure and positioning of the different layers of the release wall are not detailed.

[0093] Figures 2 and 3 show in detail a possible structure of the 300 release wall. There is no limitation on the number of (different) layers that the 300 release wall can have.

[0094] As mentioned, one of the layers of the release wall 300 is a support layer 320. This is shown exemplified in Figure 2. The support layer 320 is adapted to be opened under the increasing pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule. Interaction with opening elements (not shown) of a beverage production machine during capsule extraction will participate in controlling the capsule opening parameters. The support layer 320 can be a film, a membrane, or a sheet with a defined thickness and, preferably, with a substantially flat surface.

[0095] Support layer 320 is made of biodegradable material. Preferably, the 320 support layer can also be made of a compostable material and / or a material that is safe for Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 33 / 67 27 / 40 foods (FCS, FCMs). Additionally or alternatively, the (material of the) support layer 320 may have a defined fiber structure, such as a closed fiber structure. For example, the material of the support layer 320 may be a fiber structure with at least 50% by weight corresponding to softwood pulp. Other examples for the material of the support layer 320 may be one or any combination of the group of cellulose, paper, biopolyester, PHA, PHB, and copolymer fibers, PBS, PBS-A, PVOH and / or polymers, wherein at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol.

[0096] The support layer 320 can be configured so that it is resilient against a pressure buildup in chamber 250, preferably between 1 and 20 bar; more preferably between 10 and 20 bar; most preferably between 12 and 18 bar. In particular, the material of the support layer 320 can be configured so that it is resilient against a pressure buildup in chamber 250 in such pressure ranges. In this, the thickness and density of the material can influence the stiffness, i.e., the resistance to bending, of the support layer 320. The support layer 320 can have a material thickness of 10 to 150 micrometers, preferably 30 to 70 micrometers. Alternatively or additionally, the support layer 320 may have a basis weight between 20 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 40 and 100 g / m2. Preferably, the support layer 320 may be fixed to the capsule body 200 (to the rim portion 211), preferably by heat bonding or adhesive bonding.

[0097] Another layer of the release wall 300 is a filter layer 310, as shown in Figure 2 by way of example. The filter layer 310 can be configured to filter particles from the prepared beverage before dispensing it through (from) the release wall 300. The filter layer 310 can be a film, a membrane or a sheet of a defined thickness (and / or with a Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 34 / 67 28 / 40 surface (largely) flat).

[0098] Filter layer 310 is made of biodegradable material. Preferably, filter layer 310 can be made of a compostable material and / or a food-safe material (FCS, FCMs) as well. For example, filter layer 310 can be a non-woven material such as cellulose fibers or PLA. Other examples may be cellulose fibers, wood pulp, sugarcane pulp, rayon fibers, PBS, PBS-A, PHB and / or PLA.

[0099] The mechanical and filtration properties of filter layer 310 can be influenced by the material thickness, density, and particle permeability. Filter layer 310 can have a material thickness of 10 to 300 micrometers, preferably 30 to 250 micrometers. Additionally or alternatively, filter layer 310 can have a basis weight between 10 and 200 gsm (g / m2), preferably between 20 and 150 gsm (g / m2).

[0100] With the proposed release wall embodiment, the support layer 320 and the filter layer 310 are provided in the capsule body 200 such that the filter layer 310 is provided opposite to the chamber 250 in relation to the support layer 320.

[0101] Preferably, the support layer 320 may face chamber 250. Alternatively or additionally, the support layer 320 may be provided on the release wall closer to chamber 250 than the filter layer 310. This is illustrated by way of example in Figure 2.

[0102] Preferably, each of the filter layer 310 and the support layer 320 may also be made of a different biodegradable and, preferably, compostable material. The different materials of the two layers may differ in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 35 / 67 29 / 40 and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation. For example, it may be preferable that the elasticity of the filter layer 310 be higher than the elasticity of the support layer 320, as typically for layered structures, layers that are further away from the base layer undergo greater deformation during bending compared to layers that are closer to it.

[0103] The release wall 300 can be provided opposite the injection wall 220 with respect to the chamber 250. The release wall 300 and the injection wall 220 can be provided relative to each other so that, in operation, the injected fluid passes through the capsule 100 in the order of injection wall 220, chamber 250 (and, if available, the substance 500 contained therein) and release wall 300. The chamber 250 can be completely enclosed by the release wall 300 (at one end), by the injection wall 220 (at an opposite end thereof) and by the side wall 210 (along / surrounding the sides between the two opposite ends). Preferably, the release wall 300 extends completely over the opening 230 and overlaps the rim portion 211.

[0104] As mentioned and as a single-piece element, the release wall 300 can be connected to the rim portion 211 to close the chamber 250, thus forming a closed capsule 100. This can be accomplished, for example, by heat bonding or adhesive connection. Therefore, an adhesive layer 330 can be provided between the release wall 300 and the capsule body 200, to which (the adhesive layer) the capsule body 200 and the release wall 300 can be fixed (joined) to each other.

[0105] More precisely, and as represented in Figure 2, the adhesive layer 330 is provided on the support layer 320.

[0106] The adhesive layer 330 may comprise one or more Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 36 / 67 30 / 40 adhesive layers 330a, 330b ..., as shown in Figure 3, and may form part of the release wall 300, more specifically, the support layer 320, especially if integrated into a laminated structure.

[0107] The total thickness of one or all adhesive layers (when there is more than one adhesive layer) is between 1 and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 and 15 micrometers. In the proposed embodiment, the thickness is approximately 1 and / or 13 micrometers.

[0108] The material that forms the adhesive layer can be a biodegradable (and preferably compostable) material, such as starch or vegetable acrylic adhesive. In the present embodiment, the adhesive layer 330 is a polymer made of acrylic adhesive.

[0109] Based on the description above, the adhesive layer 330 is therefore made of a different material from the filter layer 310 and / or the support layer 320.

[0110] This adhesive layer material is hydrophobic.

[0111] In addition, the selected material is non-water-soluble to avoid any interaction / degradation by the moisture content of the beverage substance 500, which may be, for example, roasted and ground coffee.

[0112] This material is applied, as previously mentioned, in one or more layers. The total amount of adhesive material applied to the perimeter of the support layer is between 5 and 20 gsm. This ensures that sufficient adhesive material is applied to the support layer 320 for an efficient waterproof seal of the release wall 300 on the rim portion 211 of the capsule body 200.

[0113] The one or more adhesive layers are applied as a coating, for example, a water-based coating.

[0114] As can be seen in the figures and especially in Figures 3 to 5, the adhesive layer 330 does not cover the entire surface of the support layer 320. The adhesive layer extends mainly to the periphery of the support layer, around its entire perimeter. The extent Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 37 / 67 31 / 40 of the adhesive layer 330 on the perimeter of the support layer 320 occurs at least at a radial distance D.

[0115] The radial distance D must be at least equal to, preferably slightly greater than, the radial extension of the rim portion 211 in which the release wall 300 is sealed. In the proposed embodiment of Figure 4, the radial distance D of the adhesive layer extension is at least 3 mm, generally between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm, so that an adequate seal of the periphery of the support layer is provided in the rim portion 211.

[0116] The radial distance D is shown in dashed lines in Figures 4 and 5.

[0117] Additionally, the maximum percentage of coverage of the substrate layer surface by the adhesive layer is 90%.

[0118] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the adhesive layer 330 clearly covers less than 90% of the surface of the support layer, and even less than 50% for the configuration in Figure 4.

[0119] In the proposed embodiment of Figure 4, the (one or more) adhesive layer 330 is applied only to the periphery of the support layer 320, around its entire perimeter along a radial distance D of about 7 mm. This radial distance D may, for example, vary between 3 mm and 12 mm; however, it is preferably limited in extent to a value that is slightly greater than the radial extent of the rim portion. As exemplified, there is no adhesive layer in the center of the support layer to allow easier opening of the release wall 300 during capsule extraction in the beverage production machine. The adhesive-free surface is circular C.

[0120] The surface of the support layer 320 covered by the adhesive layer 330 may be limited to the periphery of the release wall with an extension of a radial distance D from the perimeter edge of the Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 38 / 67 32 / 40 support layer 320 release wall 300. However, other valid configurations may be implemented.

[0121] In the example in Figure 5, the adhesive layer 330 is also applied to the periphery of the support layer 320, around its entire perimeter for at least the radial distance D (exemplified by a dashed line in the figure), and the surface free of adhesive layer, which is centered on the support layer, is square Sq.

[0122] In the example in Figure 6, the adhesive layer 330 is also applied to the periphery of the support layer 320, around its entire perimeter for at least the radial distance D (exemplified by a dashed line in the figure), and the surface free of adhesive layer is made up of an infinity of points S.

[0123] In the proposed embodiments, the adhesive layer is a heat-sealable layer 330 that can be sealed at the rim portion 211 by applying local heat. The sealing of the release wall 300 at the rim portion of the capsule 100 is done around the entire perimeter of the release wall.

[0124] The release wall 300 may comprise additional layers in addition to the filter layer 310, the support layer 320 and the adhesive layer 330. These additional layers may be interspersed between the filter layer, the support layer and the adhesive layers, as required and depending on their function.

[0125] As can be seen in the figures and especially in Figure 2, the release wall 300 additionally incorporates a barrier layer 340 that provides a barrier against moisture and / or oxygen. The barrier is chosen to be a bidirectional barrier against moisture and oxygen to preserve the substance 500, preferably roasted and ground coffee, from moisture and oxygen present outside the capsule. The bidirectional barrier layer 340 acts against liquid and / or gaseous substances / contents that enter or leave the chamber 250. With such an arrangement, the Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 39 / 67 33 / 40 substance 500 maintains its initial quality and does not change over time.

[0126] The barrier layer 340 is positioned between the support layer 320 and the adhesive layer 330. It is positioned closer to the capsule opening 230 in order to allow it to retain all the nutritional properties and aromas of the substance 500.

[0127] The 340 barrier layer can be supplied as a single layer or as multiple layers and its total thickness can vary between X and Y. The amount of barrier material in one or more 340 barrier layers is between 0.1 and 5 gsm (g / m2).

[0128] It is made of a biodegradable material (preferably compostable material), such as biopolymers or polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or PVOH copolymers, for example, polymers where at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the aforementioned materials.

[0129] In the present case, the barrier layer is made of BVOH (butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer) or copolymer. The barrier layer has a total thickness between 3 and 4 micrometers.

[0130] If necessary, additional layers may be positioned between the support layer 320 and the adhesive layer 330, also forming part of the release wall 300.

[0131] As shown in Figure 3, the release wall 300 further comprises at least one protective layer 350 extending between the barrier layer 340 and the adhesive layer 330.

[0132] This protective layer 350 is intended to protect the barrier layer 340 from moisture.

[0133] The protective layer 350 can be made of a material that is preferably non-water-soluble and is made of a biodegradable material and, Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 40 / 67 34 / 40 preferably compostable, such as acrylic polymers.

[0134] As also seen in Figure 3, a bonding layer 360 is proposed between the support layer 320 and the filter layer 310 to join them by means of adhesive bonding or heat bonding.

[0135] The support layer 320 and the filter layer 310 are, at least partially, joined together on opposite sides of the same layer, that is, on their sides facing each other due to the bonding layer 360.

[0136] The 360 ​​bonding layer is made of one or more bonding layers and provides adhesive bonding between the 320 support layer and the 310 filter layer to ensure efficient adhesion of the two layers mentioned above.

[0137] The binding layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as starch or vegetable acrylic adhesive, and contributes to the biodegradable properties of the complete capsule.

[0138] The bond strength of the bonding layer 360 may vary depending on the material of the filter layer 310 and the support layer 320. Processo de fabricação da cápsula

[0139] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a process for manufacturing the capsule 100 described above.

[0140] In this case, the capsule body 200 is formed from a biodegradable pulp material, such as cellulose pulp, bamboo pulp, bagasse pulp, or wood pulp. The injection wall 220 is formed (preferably together with the capsule body 200) so that at least part of the chamber 250 for receiving the substance 500 for beverage preparation is formed. The release wall 300 is provided and attached to the capsule body 200, for example, by heat bonding. In this case, the release wall 300 is provided in the capsule body 200 so that the filter layer 310 is provided opposite the chamber 250 in relation to the support layer 320. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 41 / 67 35 / 40

[0141] Preferably, the capsule body 200 can be formed by wet pulp molding. In this, a paste of biodegradable pulp material, such as wood pulp, bagasse pulp, non-wood pulp and / or cellulose-based pulp in any form, can be pressed into a mold to form the capsule body 200. After that, the capsule body 200 thus formed is dried. At least part of the inner surface (before filling) or at least part of the outer surface of the capsule body 200 can be fitted with a protective film 400, for example, by thermoforming.

[0142] Alternatively, the capsule body 200 can be formed by dry pulp molding. Therefore, a raw block of cellulose fibers, preferably dry, can be provided, from which the capsule body 200 is formed with a tool, preferably under the application of heat and / or water. The protective layer 400 can be applied as a lining inside the capsule body 200 (for example, by applying heat and / or vacuum), which can extend and cover the inward-facing surface of the side wall 210 between both ends of the capsule body 200 and can extend and cover the rim portion 211 on its surface facing the opposite direction of the chamber 250.

[0143] In both of the aforementioned processes, the injection wall 220 can be formed together with the capsule body 200, for example in the same step. Preferably, the injection wall 220 can be formed by pulp molding (wet / dry) or by fixing, for example with a biodegradable adhesive, a membrane or film as the injection wall 220 to the capsule body 200 after the capsule body 200 has been formed. For example, by pulp molding (wet / dry), the injection wall 220 can be formed together with the capsule body 200 in the same process step, while a separate second process step may be required to fix the injection wall 220 with a Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 42 / 67 36 / 40 adhesive. The capsule body 200 can be filled with substance 500 for beverage preparation. The release wall 300 can be provided and fixed to the capsule body 200 by means of the adhesive layer 330 so that the support layer 320 can face (be directed towards) the chamber 250. The protective film 400 can be added to a (circumferential) surface of the capsule 100, which is preferably made of a biodegradable and / or compostable material. At least part of an inward-facing surface or an outward-facing surface of the injection wall 220 (a surface which, moreover, can delimit the chamber 250) can be provided with protective film 400.

[0144] As revealed, the revealed release wall 300 is then composed of different layers of material, each with specific properties and functions, which together contribute to the final properties of the release wall 300.

[0145] The 300 release wall can therefore comprise a layered structure or be proposed as a laminated structure. The general lamination manufacturing process is known in the prior art.

[0146] The specific arrangement of one or more adhesive layers 330 in the protective layer 350 or in the barrier layer 340 can be made using coating technology or printing technologies. If a coating is applied, the coating will be, for example, water-based. A system that incorporates the capsule and the use of the capsule.

[0147] A further aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising the capsule 100 described above and a beverage production machine, and to the use of the capsule 100 described above to prepare a beverage in a beverage production machine having a capsule holder. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 43 / 67 37 / 40

[0148] For example, capsule 100, as described above, can be supplied and inserted into a straining chamber of the beverage production machine. The straining chamber comprises a first part to house the capsule and a second part comprising a capsule holder having an opening structure. During the extraction process, capsule 100 is placed in the beverage production machine so that the filter layer 310 is closer to (and eventually comes into contact with) the opening structure (comprising opening elements in the form of a raised and recessed surface) of the capsule holder of the second part of the machine's straining chamber than the support layer 320. The straining chamber is then closed.

[0149] The injection wall 220 of capsule 100 can be pierced by an injection nozzle from the beverage production machine to inject a fluid into chamber 250 to interact with substance 500. The fluid, such as a liquid or a liquid / gas mixture, can be injected into chamber 250, thus causing pressure to build up in capsule 100 and the release wall 300 to push the opening elements, for example, of the beverage production machine. At least part of the release wall 300 can interact with the opening elements when the pressure of the injected fluid reaches a predetermined level in chamber 250. The release wall 300 can then open; the interaction with the opening elements, if not specifically participating in the opening of the release wall, can help control the extraction parameters.Alternatively or additionally, the release wall 300 can be provided (e.g., in relation to its configuration / material selection) so that the support layer 320 can be perforated while the filter layer 310 is not perforated. In this preferred embodiment, the support layer 320 is perforated while the filter layer 310 remains integral. A. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 44 / 67 38 / 40 prepared beverage can be drained from capsule 100, the beverage being able to pass through openings in support layer 320 and in (cavities in the porous material of) filter layer 310, the support layer 320 being able to be closer to chamber 250 than filter layer 310 and filter layer 310 being provided opposite to chamber 250 in relation to support layer 320.

[0150] The 300 release wall of the capsule in use in the closed straining chamber is thus opened with reduced tearing due to the embossed and recessed surface of the opening structure, when compared with a capsule comprising an aluminum release wall.

[0151] As previously mentioned, the invention also relates to the use of a capsule and a system, as described above.

[0152] It should be understood that various alterations and modifications to the presently preferred embodiment of the capsule described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such alterations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, covered in the appended claims.

[0153] In claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses should not be interpreted as limiting the claim. The expression "comprises" or "includes" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps beyond those mentioned in a claim. Furthermore, the terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as "one or more than one." Additionally, the use of introductory sentences such as "at least one" and "one or more" in claims should not be interpreted as meaning that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any specific claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one of these elements, even when the same claim includes the introductory sentences "one or more." Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 45 / 67 39 / 40 or at least one and indefinite articles such as a or an. The same applies to the use of definite articles. Except where otherwise specified, terms such as first and second are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements described by those terms. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0154] Except where explicitly indicated as incompatible, or the physical or otherwise modalities, example or claims preclude such combination, the features of the aforementioned modalities and examples, and of the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially those where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to any specific benefit, and may instead arise from an ex post facto benefit. This means that the combination of features is not limited by the forms described, particularly the form (e.g., numbering) of the example(s), modal(s) or dependency(ies) of the claim(s).Furthermore, this also applies to the phrase "in a modality," "according to a modality," and similar expressions, which are merely a form of word style and should not be interpreted as limiting the following functionalities of a separate modality to all other instances of the same or similar expression. That is to say, a reference to one, a, or some modality(ies) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all, of the modalities, or combination(s) thereof, revealed. In addition, similarly, the reference to the modality may not be limited to the immediately preceding modality.

[0155] The aforementioned description of one or more Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 46 / 67 40 / 40 implementations provide illustration and description, but are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise form presented. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from the practice of various implementations of the present description. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 47 / 67

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Capsule (100) for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine, characterized by comprising: - a capsule body (200) comprising a side wall (210) delimiting a chamber (250) for containing a substance (500) for preparing the beverage, and a rim portion (211) delimiting an opening (230) in the side wall (210); - an injection wall (220) for injecting a fluid into the chamber (250) to prepare the beverage by interaction of the fluid with the substance (500); and - a release wall (300) that is connected to the capsule body (200), preferably to the rim portion (211), to close the chamber (250), wherein the release wall (300) comprises, in a layered manner: a support layer (320) made of a biodegradable material, the support layer (320) being adapted to be opened under the effect of the increasing pressure of the fluid being injected into the capsule (100),and a filter layer (310) made of a biodegradable material to filter particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the release wall (300), wherein the release wall (300) comprises, on its surface oriented towards the chamber (250), an adhesive layer (330), applied in one or more layers, covering a maximum of 90% of the surface of the release wall (300) and extending at least around the entire perimeter of the release wall (300), along its periphery for a radial distance D between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm.

2. Capsule (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the layered release wall (300), the support layer (320) being connected to the rim portion (211) to close the capsule body (200) and the filter layer (310) being provided opposite the chamber (250) in relation to the support layer (320), the adhesive layer (330) being positioned on the surface of the support layer (320) which is oriented towards the chamber (250).

3. Capsule (100), according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the adhesive layer (330) covers between 15% and 90% of the surface of the release wall (300), preferably the support layer (320).

4. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive layer is preferably at least one sealing layer (330), preferably at least one heat-sealing layer, to seal the periphery of the release wall (300), preferably the periphery of the support layer (320) to the rim portion (211) of the capsule body (200).

5. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive layer (330) is applied in one or more layers and has a total thickness between 1 micrometer and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 micrometers and 15 micrometers.

6. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive layer (330) is not water-soluble.

7. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive layer (330) is made of a biodegradable and, preferably, compostable material, such as starch or vegetable acrylic adhesive, and wherein the adhesive layer (330) is preferably made of a material different from the filter layer (310) and / or the support layer (320).

8. Capsule (100), according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the material forming the adhesive layer is applied in one or more adhesive layers in a total amount between 2 gsm and 20 gsm (g / m2), at least around the entire perimeter of the release wall, preferably the support layer.

9. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the release wall (300), preferably the support layer (320), further comprises at least one barrier layer (340) to provide a preferably bidirectional barrier against moisture and / or oxygen, extending between the support layer and the adhesive layer (330), wherein the barrier layer (340) is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as biopolymers, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), vinyl alcohol butenediol copolymer (BVOH) or any vinyl alcohol copolymers wherein at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol and compounds or laminates of the aforementioned materials, and wherein the barrier layer (340) is preferably made of a material different from the filter layer (310) and / or the support layer (320).

10. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the release wall (300), preferably the support layer (320), further comprises at least one protective layer (350) extending between the support layer (320), preferably the barrier layer (340) and the adhesive layer (330).

11. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the protective layer (340) is preferably not water-soluble and is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as vegetable starch or acrylic polymers.

12. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support layer (320) and the filter layer (310) are at least partially joined together on opposite sides thereof, preferably by means of bonding or heat bonding, wherein a bonding layer (360) is preferably provided between the support layer (320) and the filter layer (310) which is of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as vegetable starch or acrylic adhesive.

13. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter layer (310) is made of a compostable filter paper and / or nonwoven material, such as wood or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or in that the filter layer (310) has a basis weight between 10 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 20 g / m2 and 100 g / m2.

14. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support layer (320) is made of a compostable material and has a defined fiber structure, preferably closed, such as fiber structures with at least 50% by weight corresponding to softwood pulp, cellulose fibers, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyesters, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polymers where at least one of the monomeric units is vinyl alcohol, compounds and / or laminates of the materials mentioned above, and / or in that the support layer (320) has a basis weight between 20 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 30 g / m2 and 100 g / m2.

15. Capsule (100), according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the support layer (320), preferably the material of the support layer (320), is configured so that it is resilient against a pressure accumulated in the chamber (250) between 1 and 20 bar, more preferably between 10 and 20 bar, most preferably between 12 and 18 bar.

16. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the capsule body (200) and / or the injection wall (220) comprise a layered and / or laminated structure, and preferably the capsule body (200) and / or the injection wall (220) are preferably made of laminated molded pulp fiber, and / or the capsule body (200) and the injection wall (220) are made of separate pieces or are integrally formed, for example, as a single piece.

17. Capsule (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the capsule body (200) is made of cellulose-based pulp molded material, preferably wood-based pulp molded material.

18. System for preparing a beverage characterized by comprising a capsule as defined in any of claims 1 to 17 and a beverage production machine with a fluid dispensing device capable of supplying the capsule with a quantity of a fluid, such as water, at a pressure between 2 bar and 20 bar at a first end of the capsule, and with a straining chamber, comprising a first part for housing the capsule and a second part for closing the straining chamber, wherein the second part of the straining chamber comprises a capsule holder comprising an opening structure for engaging with the capsule at the second end of the side wall when the straining chamber holding the capsule is closed, wherein the opening structure comprises a relief and a recessed surface. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p.52 / 67 6 / 6 facing, in use, towards the release wall (300), preferably towards the filter layer (310), of the capsule, wherein the release wall (300), preferably the filter layer (310), of the capsule in use in the closed straining chamber is opened with a reduced tear by the embossed and recessed surface of the opening structure, when compared with a capsule comprising an aluminum release wall.

19. Use of a capsule (100) as defined in any of claims 1 to 18 in a system for preparing a beverage as defined in claim 18, characterized in that it is intended for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine that has a capsule holder. Petition 870250080906, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 53 / 67

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