Hydrophobic gas barrier coating

Abstract

There is provided a thixotropic composition that forms a hydrophobic gas barrier coating on the surface of an agricultural product, such as produce, or the surface of packaging materials, such as packaging materials used to package agricultural products, for protecting from dehydration and / or from oxidation, and / or for preventing oxygen ingress and / or water loss through a packaging material. The thixotropic composition comprises a smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. Also provided is methods for making the composition, methods for applying the composition to a hydrophobic surface, and uses of the composition.

Description

1 / 38 Hydrophobic gas barrier coating FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to a composition that forms a transparent hydrophobic gas barrier coating on hydrophobic surfaces, such as on the surface of an agricultural product (for example, food products such as fruits and vegetables; or cut flowers, ornamentals) or on the surface of packaging materials, such as packaging materials typically used to package agricultural products. The composition is effective in protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, and / or in preventing oxygen ingress and / or water loss through a packaging material. The invention also relates generally to methods for manufacturing the composition, methods for applying the composition to a hydrophobic surface, and uses of the composition, as described herein. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE INVENTION

[002] Many hydrophobic surfaces would benefit from a coating that acts as a barrier against the movement of gases and / or water. These surfaces include, among others, the surfaces of fruits such as pome fruits or tomatoes, cut flowers such as roses, and packaging materials such as oriented polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE).

[003] Fruits and vegetables are frequently stored for long periods and often transported long distances before reaching their final point of sale to the consumer. This can cause problems if the product ripens quickly or is prone to damage during transport. Overripe or damaged fruits and vegetables often cannot be sold or consumed, resulting in a large amount of waste. Therefore, it would be desirable to improve the shelf life of products by increasing storage time before consumption, preventing premature ripening, damage and / or deterioration of the products.

[004] In the case of cut fruits and flowers, their shelf life is negatively affected by water loss and oxidation from the air. In the case of PP and PE packaging materials, they are very effective in preventing water migration into or out of the food. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 90 / 135 2 / 38 However, these are very weak oxygen barriers. For example, meat packaging prevents dehydration, whereas in a product like Pop-Tarts®, water ingress is prevented by the packaging. These packaging materials are often reinforced with an aluminized coating to overcome the oxygen barrier. The aluminized coating is expensive and makes the packaging opaque. However, consumers prefer to be able to see most products before purchase.

[005] The invention described herein provides a solution to the problem that agricultural products, such as fruits and vegetables or cut flowers, and their packaging materials, require protection against oxygen, as well as protection against the escape or entry of water. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[006] The invention relates generally to a composition consisting of, or comprising, a thixotropic mixture. Consequently, the compositions of the invention are thixotropic compositions. The terms thixotropic mixture and thixotropic composition are used herein interchangeably to refer to the compositions of the invention that are thixotropic. In some aspects of the invention, the thixotropic composition consists of, or comprises, at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent for hydrophobically modifying the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In other aspects, the smectite clay is hydrophobically modified (for example, by the action of a compatibilizing agent) and, therefore, a compatibilizing agent is not required or is not present in the mixture.Consequently, in these other aspects, the invention provides a thixotropic composition consisting of, or comprising, at least one hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.

[007] According to a first aspect of the invention, therefore, a novel thixotropic composition is provided comprising at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent for hydrophobically modifying the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the compatibilizing agent is an edible compatibilizing agent. In Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 91 / 135 3 / 38 In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax is a natural oil or wax. In some embodiments, the solvent comprises water and a volatile solvent, such as ethanol.

[008] According to a second aspect of the invention, a novel thixotropic composition is provided comprising at least one hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax is a natural oil or wax. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is edible. In some embodiments, the solvent comprises water and a volatile solvent.

[009] As described herein, when applied to a hydrophobic surface, the thixotropic compositions of the invention form a hydrophobic coating on the surface, which is transparent and acts as a gas barrier. Consequently, a thixotropic composition of the invention is useful for forming a transparent, hydrophobic coating with a gas barrier on a hydrophobic surface. The coating is suitable for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation; for increasing the shelf life of an agricultural product; and for reducing or preventing oxygen ingress and / or water loss through packaging material. Agricultural products include cut flowers or food products such as fruits and vegetables, and packaged agricultural products such as vegetables. These products have a hydrophobic surface.

[010] The invention also provides methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention and thixotropic compositions produced by the methods of the invention. The methods generally comprise mixing smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent, oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. At least one step of the mixing process is carried out under high shear conditions, i.e., at least two components of the composition are mixed under high shear. In some aspects of the invention, all components of the composition are mixed under high shear. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 92 / 135 4 / 38 [Oil] Therefore, according to a third aspect of the invention, a method is provided for producing a thixotropic composition, comprising mixing a smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent containing a volatile solvent under high shear. In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying said thixotropic composition to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or to a packaging material.

[012] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for producing a thixotropic composition, comprising dispersing at least one smectite clay in water, mixing a compatibilizing agent into the smectite clay in water under high shear to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay and thus form a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay; filtering, drying and grinding the hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay to form a powder; mixing the powder under high shear with oil and / or wax; and adding a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the solvent comprises water and a volatile solvent, such as ethanol. In some embodiments, the hydrophobically modified powdered smectite clay is sieved before being mixed with oil and / or wax.In some incorporation methods, the process also involves applying the aforementioned thixotropic composition to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or to a packaging material.

[013] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for producing a thixotropic composition, comprising moistening a smectite clay with water, adding a compatibilizing agent to the moistened smectite clay in a kneading machine fitted with an extruder head, to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, thereby forming a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay; extruding the hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay through the extruder head to form noodles or pellets (e.g., the clay may be extruded as noodles, which are subsequently broken or divided into pellets); drying and grinding the pellets to form a powder; mixing the powder under high shear with oil and / or wax; and Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 93 / 135 5 / 38 Add a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the solvent comprises water and a volatile solvent, such as ethanol. In some embodiments, the hydrophobically modified smectite clay powder is sieved before being mixed with oil and / or wax. In some embodiments, the method further comprises applying the aforementioned thixotropic composition to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or packaging material.

[014] The invention also provides methods for applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or to a packaging material. The application of a thixotropic composition of the invention having such hydrophobic properties confers one or more advantageous properties, as described herein. For example, the thixotropic compositions of the invention are useful in methods for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation; or for increasing the shelf life of an agricultural product. The thixotropic compositions of the invention are useful in methods for protecting a packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or water loss through the packaging material, such as a packaging material used to package agricultural products. In general, these methods involve applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product and / or the packaging material, as required.

[015] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, therefore, a method is provided for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product. Agricultural products include cut flowers or food products, such as vegetables (e.g., fruits and vegetables), and packaged agricultural products, such as fruit and vegetable products. These products have a hydrophobic surface. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 94 / 135 Method 6 / 38 comprises a hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some incorporation forms, the thixotropic composition is applied to the agricultural product by means of an immersion tank, spray bar or brush bed, or a combination thereof.

[016] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, a method is provided for improving the shelf life of an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product. Agricultural products include cut flowers or food products, such as fruits and vegetables, and packaged agricultural products, such as vegetables. These products have a hydrophobic surface. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.In another incorporation method, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some incorporation methods, the thixotropic composition is applied to the agricultural product by means of an immersion tank, a spray bar, or a brush bed, or a combination thereof.

[017] According to an eighth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for protecting a packaging material against (for example, by reducing or even preventing) the entry of oxygen and / or the loss of water through the packaging material, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the packaging material. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as an oil or wax). Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 95 / 135 7 / 38 natural), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the packaging material by means of an immersion tank, spray bar or brush bed, or a combination thereof.

[018] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, or for increasing the shelf life of an agricultural product, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material intended for packaging the agricultural product. For example, the packaging material may be for packaging a food product, typically fruits and vegetables. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the packaging material by means of an immersion tank, spray bar, or brush bed, or a combination thereof. After application of the composition to the packaging material, the method optionally comprises using the packaging material to package an agricultural product.

[019] According to a tenth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, or for increasing the shelf life of an agricultural product, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material that surrounds the agricultural product. For example, the packaging material may be packaged Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 96 / 135 8 / 38 around a food product, typically fruits and vegetables. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the packaging material by means of an immersion tank, spray bar or brush bed, or a combination thereof.

[020] According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, a method is provided for applying a thixotropic composition to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or its packaging material, comprising producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, optionally by any of the methods of the invention described herein; and applying said thixotropic composition to the surface of an agricultural product or its packaging material by means of an immersion tank, spray bar or brush bed, or any combination thereof. Agricultural products include cut flowers or food products such as vegetables (e.g., fruits and vegetables), and packaged agricultural products such as packaged fruits and vegetables. These products have a hydrophobic surface.In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is produced by any of the methods of the invention described herein and then applied to the product. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, p. 97 / 135 9 / 38 agricultural using an immersion tank, sprinkler bar or brush bed, or a combination thereof.

[021] A twelfth aspect of the present invention provides for the use of a thixotropic composition of the invention. The invention provides for the use of a thixotropic composition of the invention to protect an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface against dehydration and / or oxidation (for example, to reduce or even prevent dehydration and / or oxidation of the agricultural product). The invention also provides for the use of the thixotropic composition of the invention to improve the shelf life of an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface, optionally, where an improvement is achieved in relation to the shelf life of the same agricultural product without the use of the thixotropic composition of the invention, or in relation to the shelf life of the same agricultural product coated with a conventional composition known in the prior art. In these uses of the invention, the agricultural product is optionally a horticultural product, such as a fruit or vegetable, or cut flowers.The invention further provides for the use of a thixotropic composition of the invention to protect a packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or water loss through the packaging material (for example, to reduce or even prevent oxygen ingress and / or water loss through the packaging material). In any of these uses of the invention, the thixotropic composition may comprise at least a smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. Alternatively, the thixotropic composition used may comprise a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[022] The following detailed description is provided to enable anyone skilled in the art to create and use the invention. For explanatory purposes, specific details are provided to give a complete understanding of the present invention. However, it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 98 / 135 10 / 38 These specific details are not necessary for the practice of the invention. Descriptions of specific applications are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications in the embodiments will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the scope of the invention. It is not intended that the present invention be limited to the embodiments shown, but should have the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.

[023] Hydrophobic surfaces are susceptible to oxidation and water loss, and therefore coatings are often applied to agricultural products to increase their shelf life. The invention described herein solves the problems of hydrophobic materials that require protection against dehydration and / or oxidation, as well as protection against the ingress or egress of water, allowing consumers to view the coated products before purchase. To coat organic products, such as organic fruits, for the purpose of maintaining the organic state of the product, there is an additional need for a composition that is not only edible but also organic.

[024] In a first aspect, the invention provides a thixotropic composition comprising at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent (such as an edible compatibilizing agent) to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent containing a volatile solvent.

[025] When applied to a hydrophobic surface, the thixotropic composition forms a transparent barrier coating against hydrophobic gases. For example, when applied to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product (e.g., food products such as fruits and vegetables; or cut flowers), the thixotropic composition is effective in protecting the agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, and / or in increasing its shelf life. When applied to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material, the thixotropic composition is effective in protecting the packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or water loss through the packaging material. If the packaging material packages, or if Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 99 / 135 11 / 38 is intended for packaging an agricultural product; the protection against oxygen ingress and / or water loss through the packaging material conferred by the thixotropic composition of the invention is useful for protecting the agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, and / or for increasing its shelf life.

[026] The term thixotropic, as used here, refers to mixtures having non-Newtonian fluid dynamics, whose flow properties, such as apparent viscosity, change according to the rate and duration of shear.

[027] In some embodiments, the smectite clay is montmorillonite, laponite [sodium magnesium lithium silicate, NaO7Si8Mg5.5LiO3O2O(OH)4], bentonite, hectorite, or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. In some embodiments, the smectite clay is selected from sodium montmorillonite, sodium bentonite, sodium hectorite, laponite, or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. For example, the smectite clay may be sodium montmorillonite or laponite.

[028] In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 10.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises sodium montmorillonite or laponite in an amount of 1.0 to 10.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises sodium montmorillonite in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises sodium montmorillonite in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the composition). Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 100 / 135 12 / 38 thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises laponite in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises laponite in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[029] The surface of (unmodified) smectite clay is partially or substantially hydrophilic. Due to its hydrophilic nature, unmodified smectite clays do not disperse well in oil or wax, and therefore, preparing a composition comprising a smectite clay and an oil or wax is challenging. Therefore, a compatibilizing agent is included in the mixture to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay in the composition. In general, a compatibilizing agent is an organic modifier that reacts with a substance and hydrophobically modifies it. In particular, the term compatibilizing agent, as used herein, refers to an agent that hydrophobically (hydrophobically) modifies the smectite clay in the composition, making it hydrophobically modified. Compatibilizing agents react with the smectite clay to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay particles, making it compatible with hydrophobic polymers.Specifically, compatibilizing agents react with smectite clay by binding to exchangeable sodium ions on the clay surface via ionic dipole bonds of the OH groups, thus converting the smectite clay surface from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic smectite clay) has the advantage of being compatible with oil or wax, as opposed to being compatible with water. The surface of a hydrophobically modified smectite clay is substantially hydrophobic, and may be entirely hydrophobic. Consequently, in some incorporation forms, a compatibilizing agent converts smectite clay into a hydrophobic smectite clay.

[030] Commonly used compatibilizing agents include ionic liquids. Ionic liquids may be composed of a combination of organic cations, including ammonium, phosphonium, sulfonium, imidazolium, pyrrolidinium, piperidinium and / or pyridinium, with Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 101 / 135 13 / 38 various organic and inorganic anions. Useful compatibilizing agents in the invention include sodium citrate, mono- or di-glycerides of natural fats, and / or mono- or diesters of pentaerythritol. Therefore, in some embodiments, the thixotropic composition of the invention comprises sodium citrate as a compatibilizing agent. In some embodiments, the compatibilizing agent in the thixotropic composition of the invention comprises a mono- or di-glyceride of a natural fat, and / or a mono- or diester of pentaerythritol, such as an octadecyl monoester of pentaerythritol. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises montmorillonite and sodium citrate, such as sodium montmorillonite and sodium citrate. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises laponite and sodium citrate.In other embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite) and an octadecyl monoester of pentaerythritol.

[031] In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises a compatibilizing agent from 0.1 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as from 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight. Thus, the thixotropic composition may comprise sodium citrate, a mono- or di-glyceride of a natural fat, and / or a mono- or di-ester of pentaerythritol (for example, an octadecyl monoester of pentaerythritol) in an amount totaling from 0.1 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as from 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises sodium citrate in an amount of 0.1 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight.In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite) at 2 to 6% by weight, and sodium citrate at 0.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises laponite from 2 to 6% by weight, and sodium citrate from 0.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 102 / 135 14 / 38 total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight.

[032] In some forms of incorporation, the compatibilizing agent is present in the composition in milli-equivalent value of the cation exchange capacity of the smectite clay. The cation exchange capacity can be measured indirectly using a methylene blue test, or a Kjeldahl nitrogen and ammonium exchange determination. These methods are known in the art. The typical cation exchange capacity of a smectite clay is between 90 and 100 milli-equivalents / 100 grams.

[033] The present invention further provides a novel thixotropic composition comprising at least one smectite clay, sodium citrate, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent containing a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the novel thixotropic composition comprises montmorillonite or laponite, sodium citrate, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent containing a volatile solvent.

[034] The thixotropic compositions of the invention comprise an oil, a wax, or an oil and a wax. In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax is a natural oil or wax. The term natural or naturally occurring, in this context, refers to an oil or wax that occurs in nature, or is derived from nature, and is not produced or caused by humankind. This term does not require that the oil or wax be obtained directly from nature.

[035] A natural or naturally occurring oil or wax may be nature-identical, but this is not essential. The oil or wax is typically edible, meaning that the oil or wax is safe for human or animal consumption. In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax in the thixotropic composition is derived from a plant. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises a vegetable or nut oil. Examples of suitable oils for inclusion in the composition of the invention include canola oil, coconut oil, olive oil and / or palm oil. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises canola oil or coconut oil. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition alternatively or additionally comprises a wax. Examples of suitable waxes for Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 103 / 135 15 / 38 Inclusions in the composition of the invention include beeswax, candelilla wax and / or carnauba wax.

[036] In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises an oil and / or wax between 1 and 10% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[037] In some forms of incorporation, the weight ratio of oil and / or wax to smectite clay in the thixotropic composition is approximately 1:1.

[038] The thixotropic compositions of the invention further comprise a solvent, wherein the solvent comprises or consists of a volatile solvent. The term volatile, as used herein, refers to liquids that readily vaporize into gas. In some embodiments, the volatile solvent is ethanol. In other embodiments, the solvent comprises a mixture of a volatile solvent and water, for example, a mixture of ethanol and water. In some embodiments, the mixture comprises 10 to 50% volatile solvent and 50 to 90% water. In some embodiments, the mixture comprises 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water. A mixture of 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water is advantageous because it facilitates the mixing of smectite clay with an oil or wax.

[039] In some forms of incorporation, the solvent is present in an amount of at least 85% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).In some forms of incorporation, the solvent is present between 85 and 97.5% by weight, as well as between 90 and 97.5% by weight. In some forms of incorporation, the solvent is present between 90 and 95% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[040] In some forms of incorporation, the thixotropic composition is edible. The term edible, as used herein, refers to an item that is safe for human or animal consumption. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 104 / 135 16 / 38

[041] In some forms of incorporation, the thixotropic composition is organic. The term organic, as used herein, refers to components that, once applied to the product, would not alter the organic state of the product. Therefore, these components meet the standards established for organically produced agricultural products, such as the regulations defining what is organic established by the National Organic Program (NOP) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In some forms of incorporation, an organic composition does not contain any inorganic components, whereas the term inorganic, as used herein, refers to components that, once applied to the product, would alter the organic state of the product.

[042] The thixotropic compositions of the invention form a transparent coating on hydrophobic surfaces, such as on the surface of an agricultural product or on the packaging material surrounding the product. The term transparent, as used herein, refers to a coating that allows light to pass through. Thus, the coating film on the surface may be imperceptible to the human eye, or it may have a slightly glossy surface that distinguishes it from an uncoated product. Therefore, the transparent coating allows the agricultural product to be distinctly observed (e.g., through the coating on its surface and / or through the coated packaging material). The use of thick coatings of compositions comprising cross-linked bentonite clays as UV protectors, which are at best translucent or opaque, is known in the art.A skilled technician can test whether a coating on a product's surface is transparent to the naked eye, or whether it is transparent using methods known in the prior art.

[043] The thixotropic compositions of the invention form a hydrophobic gas barrier coating on hydrophobic surfaces, such as on the surface of an agricultural product or on the packaging material surrounding the product. A hydrophobic gas barrier, as used herein, refers to a coating that repels water and acts as a barrier to prevent the movement of gas across the hydrophobic surface. Thus, a hydrophobic gas barrier coating protects the Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 105 / 135 17 / 38 surface to which it is applied against the ingress of water and / or the exchange of gas, including oxygen, through the surface. Consequently, when applied to the surface of an agricultural product (e.g., a fruit and vegetable product), a hydrophobic gas barrier coating is useful to protect against dehydration and / or oxidation of the product. When applied to the hydrophobic surface of packaging material, a hydrophobic gas barrier coating is useful to protect against dehydration and / or oxidation of the product contained, or intended to be contained, within the packaging material.

[044] In a second aspect, the invention provides a thixotropic composition comprising at least one hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil and / or wax (such as a natural oil or wax), and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises at least one hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising water and a volatile solvent, such as ethanol.

[045] The description and definitions given here in the context of the thixotropic composition of the first aspect of the invention also apply to the thixotropic composition of the second aspect of the invention and to all other aspects of the invention, including each of the methods and uses of the invention described herein.

[046] A hydrophobically modified smectite clay, as used herein, refers to a smectite clay that has been hydrophobically modified (hydrophobic). The surface of a hydrophobically modified smectite clay is substantially hydrophobic, and may be entirely hydrophobic. Consequently, in some embodiments, a hydrophobically modified smectite clay may be called a hydrophobic smectite clay. Hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic smectite clay) has the advantage of being compatible with oil or wax, as opposed to being compatible with water. A known method for determining whether a smectite clay is hydrophobic or hydrophilic consists of using a contact angle measurement. Using standardized contact angle measuring equipment known in the art, the contact angle of Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 106 / 135 18 / 38 water droplets on smectite clay. Water droplets form on hydrophobic surfaces, indicating that the cohesive forces associated within the droplet are greater than the forces associated with the interaction of water with the surface of the smectite clay. A contact angle greater than 90° between the surface of the smectite clay and the water droplet indicates that the clay is hydrophobic.

[047] In some embodiments, at least one hydrophobically modified smectite clay is selected from hydrophobically modified montmorillonite (e.g., hydrophobic), laponite [sodium magnesium lithium silicate, NaO7Si8Mg5.5LiO3O2O(OH)4], bentonite, hectorite or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. In some embodiments, the hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic) is selected from sodium montmorillonite, sodium bentonite, sodium hectorite, laponite [NaO7Si8Mg5.5LiO3O2O(OH)4] or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. For example, the composition may include hydrophobically modified sodium montmorillonite or hydrophobically modified laponite.

[048] In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 10.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay at (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[049] In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax in the thixotropic composition is an edible and / or natural oil or wax, as defined herein. In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises an oil or wax between 1 and 10% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax in an amount Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 107 / 135 19 / 38 from 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, from 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, from 1.5 to 3.0% by weight or from 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[050] In some forms of incorporation, the ratio of oil or wax to hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay in the thixotropic composition is 1:1.

[051] In some embodiments, the solvent consists of a volatile solvent, such as ethanol. In other embodiments, the solvent comprises a mixture of a volatile solvent, such as ethanol, and water. In some embodiments, the mixture comprises 10 to 50% volatile solvent and 50 to 90% water. In some embodiments, the mixture comprises 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water, which advantageously facilitates the mixing of smectite clay and an oil or wax. In some embodiments, the volatile solvent is ethanol. In some embodiments, the solvent is present in an amount of at least 85% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as between 85 and 97.5% by weight, or between 90 and 97.5% by weight; Optionally, between 90 and 95% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[052] In some forms of incorporation, the thixotropic composition is edible, having the meaning defined here. In some forms of incorporation, the composition is organic, having the meaning defined here.

[053] The thixotropic composition forms a coating on hydrophobic surfaces, such as on the surface of an agricultural product or packaging material that surrounds the product, which is transparent and acts as a hydrophobic barrier against gases. These terms are defined herein.

[054] In some embodiments of any of the thixotropic compositions described herein, the thixotropic composition of the invention does not contain PVOH. For example, in some embodiments, the thixotropic composition of the invention does not contain any synthetic polymer and / or does not contain any semi-synthetic polymer. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 108 / 135 20 / 38

[055] The invention also provides methods for producing a thixotropic composition and compositions produced by those methods. The description and definitions given herein in the context of the thixotropic composition of the first and second aspects of the invention also apply to the methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention.

[056] The methods of the invention for producing a thixotropic composition involve at least one step performed under high shear. Any of the methods or method steps described herein, involving mixing under high shear, can be performed using any known high shear mixer, such as a paddle mixer, a Cowles dissolver, or a colloid mill. High shear mixing requires equipment having high rotation speed (RPM) and power to ensure that the dispersion blade can reach maximum speeds between 2,500 and 5,000 feet per minute (762 and 1,524 meters per minute). The high shear mixing process can take 1 to 2 hours. For mixing smaller batches of the composition, a high shear mixer can be used. High shear forces can also be applied by extrusion, as described herein.High-shear mixing methods are advantageous because they allow for rapid mixing of smectite clay and solvent (and other components, if present) to form a thixotropic mixture, such as a dispersion with a uniform dispersion of smectite clay particles (platelets). When using standard mixing methods that do not involve high shear (such as a paddle mixer tank), the mixing of smectite clay and solvent will never completely disperse the smectite clay to form a uniformly dispersed mixture. This is because the smectite clay platelets are held together in stacks by many weak bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and ionic dipole interactions, which collectively result in a large cohesive force. Standard mixing is not sufficient to overcome this cohesive energy.By using a method involving high shear, the increased energy and substantial force imposed by high shear are sufficient to break the forces that hold these smectite clay platelets together. Thus, a method for preparing the composition of the invention using high shear is highly efficient. Mixing under high shear reduces the viscosity of the composition. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 109 / 135 21 / 38 thixotropic, facilitating the mixing and reaction of the compatibilizing agent to convert the smectite clay from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. High shear mixing is also useful for incorporating oil and / or wax into the thixotropic mixture, as described herein.

[057] In a third aspect, therefore, the invention provides a method for preparing a thixotropic composition comprising at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. The method comprises mixing the smectite clay, the compatibilizing agent, the oil or wax, and the solvent under high shear. At least one smectite clay used in the method may be any of the smectite clays described herein. Similarly, the compatibilizing agent, the oil and / or wax, and the solvent comprising a volatile solvent used in the method may each be any of the compatibilizing agents, oils and / or waxes, and solvents as defined herein.

[058] In some embodiments, the method comprises mixing, under high shear, montmorillonite or laponite, sodium citrate, a natural oil and / or wax and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent, such as ethanol. In some embodiments, the method comprises mixing, under high shear, montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite), sodium citrate, a natural oil and / or wax and a solvent comprising ethanol, and optionally water. In other embodiments, the method comprises mixing, under high shear, laponite, sodium citrate, a natural oil and / or wax and a solvent comprising ethanol, and optionally water. In any of these embodiments, the natural oil is optionally canola oil or coconut oil, and / or the natural wax is optionally beeswax, carnauba wax or candelilla wax.

[059] In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a method for producing a thixotropic composition, comprising dispersing at least one smectite clay in water; and then mixing a compatibilizing agent into the smectite clay in water under high shear, to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay and thus form a hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic). The hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 110 / 135 The smectite clay (22 / 38 hydrophobic) is then filtered, dried, and ground into a powder before the powder is mixed with oil and / or wax under high shear, followed by the addition of a solvent containing a volatile solvent. At least one smectite clay used in the method may be any of the smectite clays described herein. Similarly, the compatibilizing agent, the oil and / or wax, and the solvent containing a volatile solvent used in the method may each be any of the compatibilizing agents, oils and / or waxes, and solvents as defined herein.

[060] The high shear mixing methods are described above. High shear mixing reduces the viscosity of the smectite clay and the aqueous dispersion, facilitating mixing and the reaction of the compatibilizing agent with the smectite clay to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay and thus form a hydrophobically modified (i.e., hydrophobic) smectite clay (i.e., converts the smectite clay into a hydrophobic smectite clay), as described above. The dispersion and mixing steps of the method are performed using standardized equipment known in the art, such as a mixer, typically for small batches, or a Cowles blade, or a paddle mixer (vane-type pump), typically for larger batches. This mixing process can occur at a speed of 1,500 to 2,000 feet per minute (457 to 610 meters per minute).Smectite clay in aqueous dispersion forms a thixotropic mixture, possessing the meaning defined herein.

[061] In some embodiments, the method comprises dispersing montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite) in water. In some embodiments, the method comprises dispersing laponite in water. In some embodiments, smectite clay is dispersed in water at approximately 1.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, smectite clay is dispersed in water at 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, at 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or at 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some incorporation forms, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay (e.g., montmorillonite or laponite) at (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 111 / 135 23 / 38

[062] The hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay obtained in the high-shear mixing step can be filtered using standard methods known in the art, such as using a base plate and a press with a commercially available filter and frame. The method then comprises drying the filtered clay using standard methods known in the art, such as using an external heat source, using a drum dryer or a spray dryer. The method subsequently comprises grinding the dried and filtered clay into a powder. Any standard grinding method known in the art can be used, such as using a hammer mill or a ball mill.

[063] Hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) powdered smectite clay is then mixed under high shear with oil and / or wax. Suitable methods of mixing under high shear are described above. In some embodiments, the oil and / or wax are mixed under high shear until a uniform exfoliated solution is obtained. A uniform exfoliated solution is obtained when the energy and substantial force imposed by the high shear reach a level sufficient to break the large cohesive forces (due to many weak bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and ionic dipole interactions) that stack the smectite clay platelets.

[064] In some forms of incorporation, hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) powdered smectite clay is sieved before being mixed with oil and / or wax. For example, a sieve with a mesh smaller than 325 can be used (i.e., the sieve has 325 openings / inch).

[065] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a thixotropic composition comprising wetting smectite clay with water; adding a compatibilizing agent to the wetted smectite clay in a kneading machine fitted with an extruder head to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, thereby forming a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay; and extruding the hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay through the extruder head to form pellets. The modified smectite clay pellets Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 112 / 135 24 / 38 hydrophobically (e.g., hydrophobic) are then dried and ground into a powder. The powder is then mixed under high shear with oil and / or wax, before the addition of a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.

[066] In some embedding forms, the method comprises wetting montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite) with water. In some embedding forms, the method comprises wetting laponite with water. In some embedding forms, the wetting step results in a mass having 30 to 90% by weight of smectite clay. In some embedding forms, the wetted smectite clay mass contains 80 to 90% by weight of smectite clay, such as 85% by weight of smectite clay.

[067] A kneading machine, preferably a hammer mill, is used to combine the compatibilizing agent with the moistened smectite clay mass, to hydrophobically modify the moistened smectite clay and thus form a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) moistened smectite clay. The energy from the kneading process mixes and heats the water and smectite clay to form a thixotropic mixture, having a uniform distribution of smectite clay particles (platelets). Once kneaded, the hydrophobically modified moistened smectite clay mass is extruded through the extrusion head of the kneading machine to form hydrophobic smectite clay pellets. The extrusion step further imparts a high shear to the clay mass. An extrusion hole of approximately 0.25 inches (6.35 mm) is typically used.

[068] Extruded pellets of hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay can be dried and ground and, optionally, sieved, using any of the known methods described above.

[069] In some embodiments of any of the methods for preparing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the smectite clay is selected from montmorillonite, laponite [Na₂7Si₈Mg₅5Li₃O₂(OH)₄], bentonite, hectorite or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. In some embodiments of any of the methods for preparing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the smectite clay is selected from sodium montmorillonite, Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 113 / 135 25 / 38 sodium bentonite, sodium hectorite, laponite or saponite, or a mixture of any two, three, four, or all five. For example, smectite clay may comprise sodium montmorillonite or laponite.

[070] In some embodiments of any of the methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition produced by the method comprises smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 10.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises smectite clay in (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[071] The step of combining smectite clay with a compatibilizing agent hydrophobically modifies the smectite clay. The term compatibilizing agent has the meaning defined herein. In some embodiments of any of the methods of the invention for preparing a thixotropic composition, the compatibilizing agent is selected from sodium citrate. In other embodiments, the compatibilizing agent is a mono- or di-glyceride of a natural fat, and / or a mono- or di-ester of pentaerythritol, such as an octadecyl monoester of pentaerythritol. In some embodiments of any of the methods of preparing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the smectite clay is montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite), and the compatibilizing agent is sodium citrate.In some embodiments of any of the methods for preparing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the smectite clay is laponite and the compatibilizing agent is sodium citrate.

[072] In some embodiments of any of the methods for preparing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition produced by the method comprises a compatibilizing agent of 0.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 114 / 135 26 / 38 weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight. In some embodiments of any of the methods of manufacturing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition comprises sodium citrate in an amount of 0.1 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight. In some embodiments of any of the methods for manufacturing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition comprises montmorillonite (e.g., sodium montmorillonite) from 2 to 6% by weight, and sodium citrate from 0.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as from 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight.In some embodiments of any of the methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition comprises laponite in a proportion of 2 to 6% by weight, and sodium citrate in a proportion of 0.5 to 5.0% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, 0.1 to 1.0% by weight, 0.1 to 0.5% by weight or 0.1 to 0.25% by weight.

[073] In some embodiments of any of the methods of producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the oil and / or wax is an edible or natural oil or wax, as defined herein. In some embodiments of any of the methods of producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the thixotropic composition comprises an oil or wax in the proportion of 1 to 10% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax in an amount of 1.0 to 5.0% by weight, 1.0 to 3.0% by weight, 1.5 to 3.0% by weight, or 1.5 to 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition comprises the oil and / or wax at (or about) 1.5% by weight, 2.0% by weight, or 2.5% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition).

[074] In some embodiments of any of the methods of the invention for the production of a thixotropic composition, oil and / or wax and smectite clay are added in a 1:1 (w / w) ratio. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 115 / 135 27 / 38

[075] The methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention employ a solvent comprising a volatile solvent, as defined herein. In some embodiments, the solvent consists of a volatile solvent, such as ethanol. In other embodiments, the solvent comprises a mixture of a volatile solvent, such as ethanol, and water. For example, the solvent mixture may comprise from 10 to 50% by volume of volatile solvent and from 50 to 90% by volume of water, such as about 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water, which advantageously facilitates the mixing of smectite clay with an oil or wax. In some incorporation methods, the solvent is added in an amount of at least 85% by weight (percentage of the total weight of the thixotropic composition), such as between 85 and 97.5% by weight, or between 90 and 97.5% by weight, and optionally between 90 and 95% by weight.

[076] The invention also provides a thixotropic composition produced by any of the methods of the invention. A thixotropic composition produced by any of the methods of the invention may be edible and, optionally, organic. These terms have the meanings defined herein.

[077] In some embodiments of any of the methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the method further comprises applying the thixotropic composition to a product having a hydrophobic surface. In some embodiments of any of the methods for producing a thixotropic composition of the invention, the composition is applied using a spray bar, an immersion tank, a brush bed, inkjet printing, rotogravure, or a scalpel, or a combination thereof. For example, the composition produced according to any of the methods of the invention may be applied using a combination of a spray bar and a brush bed, or using an immersion tank and a brush bed. The method may further comprise drying the composition after application (e.g., by applying heat), but more typically, the composition is allowed to dry naturally under ambient conditions.The thixotropic composition forms a coating on the hydrophobic surface to which it is applied. The coating is... Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 116 / 135 28 / 38 transparent and acts as a hydrophobic barrier against gases. These terms are defined here.

[078] Examples of products having at least one hydrophobic surface include an agricultural product. The term agricultural product, as used herein in relation to all aspects of the invention, refers to a product derived from plants and animals. Agricultural products include cut flowers and plants, and also include food products such as vegetables (e.g., fruits and vegetables). These products have a hydrophobic surface. In some embodiments, the agricultural product is a fruit and vegetable product. The term agricultural product, as used herein, refers to a crop produced on farms. In some embodiments, the agricultural product is a fruit, such as citrus fruits, pome fruits, or tomatoes. The invention is particularly applicable to pome fruits, more particularly to apples, pears, and / or quinces. In other embodiments, the agricultural product consists of vegetables. For example, the vegetable product may be a cucumber or a mushroom.In other incorporation methods, the agricultural product consists of cut flowers, such as roses. In some incorporation methods, the thixotropic composition is applied to an agricultural product before harvest, but in other incorporation methods, the thixotropic composition is applied after harvest.

[079] Other examples of products having at least one hydrophobic surface include packaging materials. The term packaging materials, as used herein in relation to all aspects of the invention, includes bags, films and wrappers, including shrink-wrapped or vacuum-sealed packaging, boxes, cardboard packaging, trays and other containers. Packaging materials may be made of plastic, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). In some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the packaging material before it is used to package a product, but in other embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the packaging material after it has been used to package a product, i.e., after the product is contained within the packaging material.

[080] The invention also provides methods in which a thixotropic composition of the invention is applied to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or packaging material, to provide one or more technical effects as described herein. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 117 / 135 29 / 38 described. The description and definitions provided herein, in the context of the thixotropic composition of the first and second aspects of the invention, also apply to the methods described below for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, for increasing shelf life, and / or for protecting against oxygen ingress and / or water loss through a packaging material.

[081] In a sixth aspect, therefore, the invention provides a method for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product. For example, the method aims to protect an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation during storage or while on display. An agricultural product is a product as defined herein. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.The terms smectite clay, compatibilizing agent, hydrophobically modified smectite clay, oil and / or wax, and solvent comprising a volatile solvent are terms defined herein.

[082] The thixotropic compound can be applied to the agricultural product before harvest, but it is more commonly applied after harvest.

[083] Dehydration of agricultural products is accelerated in drier environmental conditions and with exposure to air / oxygen. For example, water is lost in agricultural products, such as fruits (e.g., pome fruits) and vegetables, during storage. The thixotropic compositions and related methods of the invention are useful for reducing moisture loss from a product by reducing the rate of moisture vapor transmission through the hydrophobic surface of the product, or its packaging material to which the thixotropic composition is applied. Protecting an agricultural product against dehydration, as used herein, refers to protecting against moisture loss (such as water loss) from an agricultural product. In these forms of Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 118 / 135 30 / 38 Incorporation, protecting against dehydration encompasses reducing or even preventing dehydration. A reduction in dehydration can be defined in comparison to the dehydration of the same product without any coating composition (uncoated control), or in comparison to the dehydration of the same product coated with a conventional composition known in the art. Methods for observing and measuring the dehydration of agricultural products are known in the art. For example, dehydration can be measured by weighing the product, where a weight loss corresponds to a moisture loss. In some incorporation forms, an agricultural product coated with a thixotropic composition of the invention loses at least 5% less weight during storage for three weeks at room temperature, compared to the same agricultural product without coating (control).For example, an agricultural product coated with a thixotropic composition of the invention loses at least 10%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 45%, 50% or 55% less weight during storage for three weeks at room temperature, compared to the same agricultural product without coating (control).

[084] The oxidation of produce, such as fruits (e.g., pome fruits) and vegetables, causes browning and softening of the products. The thixotropic compositions and related methods of the invention are useful for protecting a product against oxidation by reducing the rate of oxygen transmission through a hydrophobic surface of the product or its packaging material to which the thixotropic composition is applied. Protecting an agricultural product against oxidation, as used herein, refers to protecting the surface of the agricultural product against oxidation. In these embodiments, protecting against oxidation encompasses reducing or even preventing oxidation. A reduction in oxidation can be defined in comparison to the oxidation of the same product without any coating composition (uncoated control), or in comparison to the oxidation of the same product coated with a conventional composition known in the art.Methods for observing and measuring the oxidation of agricultural products are known in the field. For example, the oxidation of an agricultural product (e.g., browning and / or...) Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 119 / 135 31 / 38 Softening of agricultural products such as fruits, especially pome fruits) is typically observed and measured with the naked eye.

[085] In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a method for improving the shelf life of an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product. Agricultural products are products as defined herein. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.The terms smectite clay, compatibilizing agent, hydrophobically modified smectite clay, oil and / or wax, and solvent comprising a volatile solvent are terms as defined herein. The thixotropic composition can be applied to the agricultural product before harvest, but is more commonly applied after harvest.

[086] The shelf life of an agricultural product, particularly fresh produce, can be defined as the period during which the product can be stored without becoming unfit for use, consumption, or sale. During the shelf life of a product, the defined quality of a specific proportion of the product remains acceptable under expected (or specified) conditions. Dehydration and / or oxidation of an agricultural product can reduce its shelf life. Therefore, protecting the product against dehydration and / or oxidation is useful for maintaining or increasing the expected shelf life of the product. An improvement in shelf life can be an extension of the period during which the product can be stored without becoming unfit for use, consumption, or sale.The improvement in shelf life is achieved by comparing the shelf life of the same agricultural product without any coating composition (uncoated control), or by comparing the shelf life of the same agricultural product coated with a conventional composition known in the art. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 120 / 135 32 / 38

[087] In an eighth aspect, the invention provides a method for protecting a packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss) through a hydrophobic surface of the packaging material, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to the hydrophobic surface of the packaging material. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent for hydrophobically modifying the smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.The terms smectite clay, compatibilizing agent, hydrophobically modified smectite clay, oil and / or wax, and solvent comprising a volatile solvent are terms defined herein. After applying the thixotropic composition to the packaging material, the method optionally includes using the packaging material to package an agricultural product.

[088] In some embodiments, the method provides protection against oxygen ingress. In other embodiments, the protection is against moisture loss, such as, or including, water loss. In other embodiments, the method provides protection against both oxygen ingress and moisture loss, such as, or including, water loss. The thixotropic compositions and related methods of the invention are useful for protecting a packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss) through the packaging material by reducing the rate of transmission of oxygen vapor and / or moisture (e.g., water) through the hydrophobic surface of the product, or its packaging material to which the thixotropic composition is applied.In these forms of incorporation, protecting a packaging material against oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss through the hydrophobic surface of the packaging material involves reducing or even preventing oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss). A reduction in oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss) can be defined in comparison to the ingress of... Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 121 / 135 33 / 38 oxygen and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss) through the same hydrophobic surface of a packaging material without any coating composition (uncoated control), or compared with oxygen ingress and / or moisture loss (e.g., water loss) through the same hydrophobic surface of a packaging material coated with a conventional composition known in the art.

[089] In a ninth aspect, the present invention provides a method for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, or for improving the shelf life of an agricultural product, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material intended for packaging the agricultural product. Suitable packaging materials are defined herein. An agricultural product is also defined herein. Protection against dehydration and / or oxidation, and increased shelf life, are defined herein. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified smectite clay (e.g., hydrophobic), an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. The terms smectite clay, compatibilizing agent, hydrophobically modified smectite clay, oil and / or wax, and solvent comprising a volatile solvent are terms defined herein. After the thixotropic composition has been applied to the packaging material, the method further optionally comprises using the packaging material to package an agricultural product.

[090] In a tenth aspect, the invention provides a method for protecting an agricultural product against dehydration and / or oxidation, or for improving the shelf life of an agricultural product, comprising applying a thixotropic composition of the invention to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material that surrounds the agricultural product. For example, the packaging material can be wrapped around a food product, typically a fruit and vegetable product. Packaging materials Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 122 / 135 Suitable 34 / 38 are defined herein. An agricultural product is also defined herein. Protection against dehydration and / or oxidation, and improvement of shelf life, are defined herein. In one embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent. In another embodiment, the thixotropic composition used in the method comprises at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.

[091] The terms smectite clay, compatibilizing agent, hydrophobically modified smectite clay, oil and / or wax and solvent comprising a volatile solvent are terms as defined herein.

[092] In any of these methods of the invention, in some embodiments, the thixotropic composition is applied to the hydrophobic surface using an immersion tank, a spray bar or a brush bed, or any combination thereof. For example, the composition is applied using a spray bar, optionally using a spray bar and a brush bed.

[093] In a twelfth aspect, the present invention provides uses of a thixotropic composition of the invention. The invention provides the use of a thixotropic composition of the invention to protect an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface against dehydration and / or oxidation (for example, to reduce or even prevent dehydration and / or oxidation of the agricultural product). The invention also provides the use of the thixotropic composition of the invention to improve the shelf life of an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface; optionally, such improvement is achieved in relation to the shelf life of the same agricultural product without the use of the thixotropic composition of the invention, or in relation to the shelf life of the same agricultural product coated with a conventional composition known in the art. In these uses of the invention, the agricultural product is optionally a horticultural product, such as fruits or vegetables (typically pome fruits), or cut flowers.The invention further provides for the use of a thixotropic composition of the invention to protect a packaging material against the entry of oxygen and / or loss of water through the packaging material (by... Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 123 / 135 35 / 38 example, to reduce or even prevent the entry of oxygen and / or loss of water through the packaging material). In any of these uses of the invention, the thixotropic composition may comprise a hydrophobically modified (e.g., hydrophobic) smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent containing a volatile solvent. Alternatively, the thixotropic composition used may comprise at least one smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay, an oil or wax, and a solvent containing a volatile solvent. EXAMPLE 1

[094] An assay was conducted in which apples were coated with a thixotropic composition containing 25 grams of laponite, 16 grams of canola oil and 2 grams of sodium citrate per liter of solvent.

[095] The thixotropic composition was prepared by mixing laponite, canola oil, sodium citrate, and solvent in a blender, under shearing (grinding) until reaching 80 degrees Celsius. The coating was applied manually with a paint sprayer and allowed to dry at room temperature. The weight of the apples was monitored for three weeks at room temperature. Compared to uncoated apples (control), apples coated with the thixotropic composition lost 8% less weight. EXAMPLE 2

[096] A trial was conducted in which apples were coated with a thixotropic composition consisting of 16 grams of laponite, 25 grams of canola oil, and 2 grams of sodium citrate per liter of solvent. The thixotropic composition was prepared by mixing the laponite, canola oil, sodium citrate, and solvent in a blender, shearing until it reached 80 degrees Celsius. The coating was applied manually to the apples with a paint sprayer and allowed to dry at room temperature. The weight of the apples was monitored for three weeks at room temperature. Compared to uncoated apples (control), apples coated with the thixotropic composition lost 25.4% less weight. EXAMPLE 3 Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 124 / 135 36 / 38

[097] A trial was conducted in which apples were coated with a thixotropic composition consisting of 25 grams of montmorillonite, 15 grams of canola oil, 3.5 grams of beeswax, and 2 grams of sodium citrate per liter of solvent. The thixotropic composition was obtained by mixing montmorillonite, canola oil, beeswax, sodium citrate, and solvent in a blender, shearing until it reached 80 degrees Celsius. The coating was applied to the apples manually with a paint sprayer and allowed to dry under ambient conditions. The weight of the apples was monitored for three weeks at room temperature. Compared to uncoated apples (control), apples coated with the thixotropic composition lost 45.9% less weight. EXAMPLE 4

[098] A trial was conducted in which apples were coated with a thixotropic composition consisting of 20 grams of laponite, 25 grams of coconut oil, and 2 grams of sodium citrate per liter of solvent. The thixotropic composition was prepared by mixing the laponite, coconut oil, sodium citrate, and solvent in a blender, shearing until it reached 80 degrees Celsius. The coating was applied to the apples manually with a paint sprayer and allowed to dry under ambient conditions. The weight of the apples was monitored for three weeks at room temperature. Compared to uncoated apples (control), the apples coated with the thixotropic composition lost 31% less weight. EXAMPLE 5

[099] An experiment was conducted in which Bartlett pears were coated with a thixotropic composition consisting of 25 grams of sodium montmorillonite, 9.5 grams of pentaerythritol octadecyl monoester, and 18 grams of candelilla wax per liter of 75% (by volume) water and 25% (by volume) ethanol. The thixotropic composition was prepared by mixing the sodium montmorillonite, pentaerythritol octadecyl monoester, candelilla wax, water, and ethanol in a blender for 40 minutes. This thixotropic composition was used to coat the Bartlett pears with a hand sprayer and manual friction, to simulate a spray bar and a brush bed. The Bartlett pears were stored for 3 weeks and dehydration was measured. In Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 125 / 135 37 / 38 Compared to uncoated pears (control), pears coated with the thixotropic composition showed 55% lower levels of dehydration. EXAMPLE 6

[0100] An additional experiment was conducted in which Bartlett pears were coated with a thixotropic composition consisting of 25 grams of sodium montmorillonite, 9.5 grams of pentaerythritol octadecyl monoester, and 18 grams of candelilla wax, per liter of 75% (by volume) water and 25% (by volume) ethyl alcohol. The thixotropic composition was prepared by moistening a mixture of powdered sodium montmorillonite and pentaerythritol octadecyl monoester with 15 grams of water and ethanol, in a 75%:25% (by volume) ratio, to prepare a moistened hydrophobic smectite clay. The moistened hydrophobic smectite clay was placed in a ball mill and extruded. The extruded hydrophobic smectite clay pellets (noodles) were then dried and ground to form a hydrophobic smectite clay powder, using a ball mill.Hydrophobic smectite clay powder was then dispersed in a blender for 20 minutes in water and ethanol, in a 75%:25% (by volume) ratio, with a solids concentration of 5.25%. This thixotropic composition was used to coat Bartlett pears with a hand sprayer and manual friction to simulate a spray bar and brush bed. The Bartlett pears were stored for 3 weeks under cold storage, and dehydration was measured. Compared to uncoated pears (control), the pears coated with the thixotropic composition showed 49% lower dehydration levels.

[0101] The terms comprising, including, and having, as used in the claims and in this descriptive report, should be considered indicative of an open group that may include other unspecified elements. The terms one, an, and the singular forms of the words should be interpreted as including the plural of the same words, so that the terms mean that one or more of an item is provided. The term one or only may be used to indicate that only one item is provided. Similarly, other specific integer values, such as two, may be used when a specific number of items is provided. The terms preferably, preferred, prefer, optionally, may, and terms Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 126 / 135 Similar symbols (38 / 38) are used to indicate that an item, condition, or step being referred to is an optional (non-mandatory) feature of the invention.

[0102] The invention has been described with reference to various embodiments and specific and preferred techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications can be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention. It will be evident to those with common knowledge of the art that methods, devices, device elements, materials, procedures, and techniques other than those specifically described herein can be applied to the practice of the invention as broadly described without recourse to undue experimentation. All functional equivalents known in the art of methods, devices, device elements, materials, procedures, and techniques described herein are to be encompassed by this invention. Whenever a range of values ​​is described, all subranges and individual values ​​are to be encompassed.This invention is not limited to the embodiments described, including those shown in the drawings or exemplified in this descriptive report, which are provided by way of example and not limitation.

[0103] Although the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art who benefit from this description will understand that other embodiments may be devised without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein. Consequently, the scope of the invention shall be limited only by the appended claims.

[0104] All references throughout this application, for example, patent documents, including issued or granted patents or equivalents, publications of patent applications and non-patent literature or other source material, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if they were incorporated individually as a reference, to the extent that each reference is not at least partially inconsistent with the description in this application (for example, a partially inconsistent reference is incorporated as a reference except for the partially inconsistent part of the reference). Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pages 127 / 135

Claims

1 / 7 Claims 1. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION FOR PROTECTING AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT AGAINST DEHYDRATION AND / OR OXIDATION, characterized by comprising: (a) at least one smectite clay; (b) a compatibilizing agent for hydrophobically modifying the smectite clay; (c) an oil and / or wax; and (d) a solvent, comprising a volatile solvent.

2. Thixotropic composition, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising at least one smectite clay in an amount of 1 to 10% by weight, optionally 1 to 5% by weight.

3. Thixotropic composition, according to claims 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one smectite clay is montmorillonite, laponite, bentonite, hectorite or saponite, or a mixture of any two or more of these.

4. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the compatibilizing agent comprises, or consists of, sodium citrate, or the compatibilizing agent comprises, or consists of, a mono- or di-glyceride of a natural fat, and / or a mono- or di-ester of penta-erythritol.

5. Thixotropic composition, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the compatibilizing agent is present in an amount of 0.1 to 5.0% by weight.

6. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION FOR PROTECTING AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT AGAINST DEHYDRATION AND / OR OXIDATION, characterized by comprising: (a) at least one hydrophobically modified smectite clay; (b) an oil and / or wax; and (c) a solvent, comprising a volatile solvent.

7. Thixotropic composition, according to claim 6, characterized in that hydrophobic smectite clay is present in an amount of 1 to 10% by weight, optionally 1 to 5% by weight. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 128 / 135 2 / 7 8. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to claims 6 or 7, characterized in that at least one hydrophobically modified smectite clay is montmorillonite, laponite, bentonite, hectorite or hydrophobically modified saponite, or a mixture of any two or more of these.

9. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the oil and / or wax comprise an oil and / or wax derived from a plant, optionally with the oil being a vegetable oil or nut oil, or with the wax comprising carnauba wax or beeswax.

10. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the oil and / or wax is present in an amount of 1 to 10% by weight, optionally 1 to 5% by weight.

11. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the solvent is present in an amount of at least 85% by weight, optionally from 85 to 97.9% by weight.

12. THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the solvent comprises, or consists of, ethanol, or the solvent is a mixture of ethanol and water, with the mixture optionally comprising 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water.

13. Thixotropic composition, according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the composition is edible.

14. METHOD FOR PRODUCING A THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, characterized by comprising mixing, under high shear, smectite clay, a compatibilizing agent to hydrophobically modify the clay, oil and / or wax, and a solvent comprising a volatile solvent.

15. METHOD FOR PRODUCING A THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, characterized by comprising: (a) dispersing smectite clay in water; (b) mixing a compatibilizing agent into the smectite clay in water, under high shear, to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay; Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, page 129 / 135 3 / 7 (c) filtering the hydrophobic smectite clay; (d) drying the hydrophobic smectite clay; (e) grinding the dried hydrophobic smectite clay to form a hydrophobic smectite clay powder; (f) mixing the hydrophobic smectite clay powder, under high shear, with oil and / or wax; and (g) the addition of a solvent containing a volatile solvent.

16. METHOD, according to claim 15, characterized in that smectite clay is dispersed in water to form a dispersion of 1 to 5% by weight.

17. METHOD FOR PRODUCING A THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, characterized by comprising: (a) wetting smectite clay with water; (b) adding a compatibilizing agent to the wetted smectite clay in a kneading machine equipped with an extruder head, to hydrophobically modify the smectite clay; (c) extruding the hydrophobic smectite clay through the extruder head, to form hydrophobic smectite clay pellets; (d) drying the hydrophobic smectite clay pellets; (e) grinding the dried hydrophobic smectite clay pellets to form a hydrophobic smectite clay powder; (f) mixing the hydrophobic smectite clay powder, under high shear, with oil and / or wax; and (g) the addition of a solvent containing a volatile solvent.

18. METHOD, according to claim 17, characterized in that the moistened smectite clay contains from 30 to 90% by weight of smectite clay, optionally about 85% by weight of smectite clay.

19. METHOD, according to claims 17 or 18, characterized in that the kneading machine is a paddle mill. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 130 / 135 4 / 7 20. METHOD, according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that step (e) further comprises sieving hydrophobic smectite clay powder.

21. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that the smectite clay contains 1 to 10% by weight of the thixotropic composition, optionally 1 to 5% by weight of the thixotropic composition.

22. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 21, characterized in that the compatibilizing agent contains from 0.1 to 5.0% by weight of the thixotropic composition.

23. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 22, characterized in that the oil or wax is present in an amount of 1 to 10% by weight in the thixotropic composition, optionally 1 to 5% by weight in the thixotropic composition.

24. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 23, characterized in that the solvent is present in an amount of at least 85% by weight in the thixotropic composition, optionally between 85 and 97.9% by weight in the thixotropic composition.

25. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 24, characterized in that the smectite clay is montmorillonite, laponite, bentonite, hectorite or saponite, or a mixture of any two or more of these.

26. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 25, characterized in that the compatibilizing agent comprises sodium citrate, or such compatibilizing agent comprises a mono- or di-glyceride of a natural fat, and / or a mono- or di-ester of penta-erythritol.

27. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 26, characterized in that the oil and / or wax comprises an oil and / or wax derived from a plant, with the oil optionally being a vegetable oil or nut oil, or with the wax comprising carnauba wax or beeswax. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 131 / 135 5 / 7 28. METHOD, according to any one of claims 14 to 27, characterized in that the solvent comprises, or consists of, ethanol, or the solvent is a mixture of ethanol and water, with the mixture optionally comprising 25% by volume of volatile solvent and 75% by volume of water.

29. Thixotropic composition, characterized by being prepared by the method of any one of claims 14 to 28.

30. METHOD FOR APPLYING A THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION TO AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT OR ITS PACKAGING MATERIAL, characterized by comprising: preparing a thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 14 to 28; and applying said thixotropic composition to a hydrophobic surface of an agricultural product or its packaging material, using an immersion tank, a spray bar or a brush bed, or any combination thereof.

31. METHOD, according to claim 30, characterized in that the thixotropic composition is applied using a combination of spray bar and brush bed, or using a combination of immersion tank and brush bed.

32. METHOD FOR PROTECTING A PACKAGING MATERIAL AGAINST OXYGEN ENTRY AND / OR MOISTURE LOSS THROUGH THE PACKAGING MATERIAL, characterized by comprising the application of the thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29 to a hydrophobic surface of the packaging material.

33. METHOD FOR PROTECTING AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT AGAINST DEHYDRATION AND / OR OXIDATION, characterized by comprising the application of the thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29 to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product.

34. METHOD FOR INCREASING THE SHELF LIFE OF AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT, characterized by comprising the application of the thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29 to a hydrophobic surface of the agricultural product. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 132 / 135 6 / 7 35. METHOD FOR PROTECTING AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT AGAINST DEHYDRATION AND / OR OXIDATION, OR FOR IMPROVING THE SHELF LIFE OF AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT, characterized by comprising the application of the thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29 to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material intended for the packaging of the agricultural product, the method optionally further comprising the packaging of the agricultural product in the packaging material.

36. METHOD FOR PROTECTING AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT AGAINST DEHYDRATION AND / OR OXIDATION, OR FOR IMPROVING THE SHELF LIFE OF AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT, characterized by comprising the application of the thixotropic composition as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29 to a hydrophobic surface of a packaging material that encloses the agricultural product.

37. METHOD, according to any one of claims 33 to 36, characterized in that the agricultural product is a horticultural product, such as fruits or vegetables, or in that the agricultural product is cut flowers.

38. METHOD, according to any one of claims 32 to 37, characterized in that the thixotropic composition is applied using a spray bar, an immersion tank, a brush bed, inkjet printing, rotogravure or a scalpel, or a combination thereof.

39. METHOD, according to claim 38, characterized in that the thixotropic composition is applied using a combination of a spray bar and a brush bed.

40. METHOD, according to claim 38, characterized in that the thixotropic composition is applied using a combination of immersion tank and brush bed.

41. USE OF THE THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29, characterized in that such use is to protect an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface against dehydration and / or oxidation. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 133 / 135 7 / 7 42. USE OF THE THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29, characterized in that such use is to improve the shelf life of an agricultural product having a hydrophobic surface.

43. USE, according to claims 41 or 42, characterized in that the agricultural product is a horticultural product, such as fruits or vegetables, or in that the agricultural product is cut flowers.

44. USE OF THE THIXOTROPIC COMPOSITION, as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 or 29, characterized in that such use is to protect a packaging material against the entry of oxygen and / or loss of moisture through the packaging material. Petition 870250080972, dated 09 / 09 / 2025, pp. 134 / 135