Low noise biodegradable breathable membrane

Abstract

The present invention relates to a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer, a method for producing the breathable film, use of a surface-treated filler material product as a filler in a breathable film, an article comprising the breathable film, and use of the breathable film in sanitary applications, medical applications, healthcare applications, filter materials, geotextile products, agricultural applications, horticultural applications, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household applications, industrial applications, packaging applications, building applications or construction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer, a method for producing the breathable film, use of a surface-treated filler material product as a filler in a breathable film, an article comprising the breathable film, and use of the breathable film in sanitary applications, medical applications, healthcare applications, filter materials, geotextile products, agricultural applications, horticultural applications, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household applications, industrial applications, packaging applications, building applications or construction. Background Art

[0002] As early as 1983, Japan developed the first breathable film for sanitary products. Production of breathable films began in the mid-1990s in the United States and later in Europe, where they quickly captured a significant market share. Currently, breathable films have two main application areas: personal hygiene products such as baby diapers, feminine hygiene pads (sanitary napkins, menstrual pads), or adult incontinence products; and the construction industry, such as roofing membranes, housewraps, or wall coverings. However, the specific permeability of these films also has applications in other industries, such as disposable clothing for medical and industrial applications.

[0003] Breathable films typically comprise a blend of a thermoplastic polymer and an inorganic filler such as calcium carbonate and are produced by casting or blowing the blend into a film and subsequently stretching the film. The stretching process causes the polymer to peel off from the surface of the inorganic filler particles, thereby creating micropores (often referred to as "voids") in the film's cross-section that allow water vapor to pass through during final use.

[0004] However, such films are consumed in large quantities and discarded after use, so for environmental reasons it is desirable to use compostable or biodegradable sheets. Therefore, it is desirable to produce compostable or biodegradable films that do not compromise performance. Such films are well known in the art. For example, US20020098341 relates to a biodegradable breathable film formed by mixing any biodegradable polymer with particles and subsequently stretching. US20100068484 relates to a biodegradable breathable film using two filler particles of different sizes. CN102250455 relates to a biodegradable breathable film made of polylactic acid (PLA) and 40-60% calcium carbonate and 1-10% other additives. US6660211 relates to a biodegradable breathable film made of a biodegradable film and a water-soluble polymer that dissolves and generates porosity. US20050112363 relates to a biodegradable breathable film comprising a biodegradable polyester, a biodegradable copolyester and a filler. US8466337 relates to a biodegradable breathable film comprising thermoplastic starch, PBAT and a filler.

[0005] However, such biodegradable breathable films, which are usually based on polylactic acid (PLA), offer good mechanical properties but produce unpleasant noise in the final product. This is irritating to the end consumer and therefore undesirable. Other soft polymers, such as vinyl acetate copolymers or PBS, do not produce this noise, but have low stiffness, which is difficult to handle during film processing, such as in printing and lamination steps. In addition, it is desirable that the film have sufficient vapor permeability, i.e., breathability, because when used, for example, in sanitary products such as diapers, the lack of evaporation of moisture may lead to skin irritation.

[0006] Therefore, it remains of interest to those skilled in the art to provide a biodegradable breathable membrane that provides low noise and has good mechanical properties. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a breathable film that is biodegradable and provides low noise. It is also desirable to provide a breathable film that has good mechanical properties (e.g., breaking force, elongation at break, or elastic modulus). It is also desirable to provide a breathable film that maintains good air permeability and low film defect levels. It is also desirable to provide a breathable film that has good processing characteristics (e.g., low mold buildup).

[0008] The above objects and others are solved by the subject matter as defined herein in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined herein and in the corresponding dependent claims.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer is provided. The breathable film comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises

[0010] A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having

[0011] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm,

[0012] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15μm,

[0013] - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and

[0014] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material,

[0015] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0016] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0017] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0018] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0019] wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus lower than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is a wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer is selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polylactic acid based polymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymers, poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polygluconate, poly (dihydroxybutyrate); alkyl ketone), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), polycaprolactone-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer, polycaprolactone-polylactic acid copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), poly(propylene succinate) (PPS) and mixtures thereof, preferably polylactic acid, polylactic acid-based polymers, polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and mixtures thereof.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid, preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:9, more preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 2:1.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the breathable film comprises 40-65 wt%, preferably 40-60 wt% and most preferably 40 wt% to 55 wt% of the surface treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable film.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is natural ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, modified calcium carbonate, surface-treated calcium carbonate or a mixture thereof, preferably natural ground calcium carbonate.

[0025] According to yet another embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has

[0026] a) Weight median particle size d 50 0.25 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 4 μm and most preferably 0.6 μm to 2 μm, and / or

[0027] b) Top cut particle size d 98 is ≤12.5 μm, preferably ≤10 μm, more preferably ≤7.5 μm and most preferably ≤6.5 μm, and / or

[0028] c) a fineness such that at least 5% by weight, preferably at least 7% by weight, even more preferably at least 9% by weight and most preferably at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of < 0.5 μm, and / or

[0029] d) Specific surface area (BET) measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method is 0.5-50 m 2 / g, more preferably 0.5-35m 2 / g and most preferably 0.5-15m 2 / g.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a residual total moisture content of 0.05-0.2 wt.-%, preferably 0.05-0.15 wt.-% and most preferably 0.05-0.15 wt.-%, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C4 to C18.

[0032] According to yet another embodiment, the surface treated filler material product has a moisture pick-up of 0.1-1 mg / g, preferably 0.2-0.9 mg / g and most preferably 0.2-0.8 mg / g at a temperature of 23°C (±2°C).

[0033] According to one embodiment, the film has a basis weight of 8-40 g / m 2 , preferably 15-38g / m 2 And most preferably 20-36g / m 2 .

[0034] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for producing a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product, based on the total weight of the breathable film, the method comprising the steps of:

[0035] a) providing a composition comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a surface treated filler material product, wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3, and

[0036] b) forming a film from the composition of step a), and

[0037] c) stretching the film obtained in step b) in at least one direction,

[0038] The surface treated filler material product comprises

[0039] A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having

[0040] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm,

[0041] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15μm,

[0042] - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and

[0043] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0044] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0045] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0046] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0047] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the composition provided in step a) is a masterbatch or compound obtained by mixing and / or kneading the at least one biodegradable polymer and the surface-treated filler material product to form a mixture, and continuously granulating the mixture obtained.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of a surface-treated filler material product as a filler in a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer, wherein the breathable film comprises the surface-treated filler material product in an amount of 35-65% by weight based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises

[0050] A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having

[0051] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm,

[0052] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15μm,

[0053] - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and

[0054] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material,

[0055] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0056] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0057] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0058] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material,

[0059] wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus lower than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3.

[0060] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article comprising a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product as defined herein, based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the article is selected from sanitary products, medical products, healthcare products, filtration products, geotextile products, agricultural products, horticultural products, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household products, industrial products, packaging products, building products or construction products.

[0061] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of a breathable membrane comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product as defined herein, based on the total weight of the breathable membrane, in sanitary applications, medical applications, healthcare applications, filter materials, geotextile products, agricultural applications, horticultural applications, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household applications, industrial applications, packaging applications, building applications or construction.

[0062] It should be understood that for the purposes of the present invention, the following terms have the following meanings:

[0063] The term "ground calcium carbonate-containing filler" in the subject matter of the present invention refers to a calcium carbonate-containing filler which has been manufactured by a process comprising at least one grinding step. "Ground calcium carbonate-containing filler" includes fillers which can be "wet ground" or "dry ground", wherein a "wet ground calcium carbonate-containing filler" in the meaning of the present invention refers to a ground calcium carbonate-containing filler which has been manufactured by a process comprising at least one grinding step in an aqueous suspension having a solids content of 20-80% by weight, and a "dry ground calcium carbonate-containing filler" refers to a ground calcium carbonate-containing filler which has been manufactured by a process comprising at least one grinding step in an aqueous suspension having a solids content of more than 80% by weight up to 100% by weight.

[0064] The term "breathable film" in the meaning of the present invention refers to a polymer film which allows the passage of gases and moisture vapor, for example due to the presence of micropores. The "breathability" of a breathable film can be measured by its water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), which is expressed in g / (m 2 For example, if the polymer film has a 2 If a WVTR of 1000 WVTR (days) is less than 200 WVTR, it can be considered as "breathable". WVTR can be measured according to ASTM E398 using Lyssy L80-5000 measuring device.

[0065] The term "biodegradable" in the meaning of the present invention refers to a polymer that can be broken down into water, carbon dioxide and biomass by bacteria or other living organisms and disposed of. Preferably, the at least one biodegradable polymer is biodegradable in the sense of ISO 13432.

[0066] The term "film" in the meaning of the present invention is a sheet or layer of material having a small median thickness compared to its length and width. For example, the term "film" may refer to a sheet or layer having a basis weight (or film grammage) of 1-500 g / m 2 Preferably, the film has a basis weight of 8-40 g / m 2 , preferably 15-38g / m 2 And most preferably 20-36g / m 2 .

[0067] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "calcium carbonate-containing filler material" refers to a material comprising at least 80% by weight of calcium carbonate, based on the total dry weight of the calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0068] "Natural ground calcium carbonate" (GCC) in the meaning of the present invention is calcium carbonate which has been obtained from natural sources, such as limestone, marble, dolomite or chalk, and which has been processed by wet treatments such as grinding, screening and / or classification, for example with the aid of cyclones or classifiers.

[0069] "Modified calcium carbonate" (MCC) within the meaning of the present invention may be characterized as a natural ground or precipitated calcium carbonate having an internal structural modification or a surface reaction product (i.e., "surface-reacted calcium carbonate"). "Surface-reacted calcium carbonate" refers to a material comprising calcium carbonate and an insoluble (preferably at least partially crystalline) calcium salt of an acid anion on the surface. Preferably, the insoluble calcium salt extends from the surface of at least a portion of the calcium carbonate. The calcium ions forming the at least partially crystalline calcium salt of the anion are largely derived from the starting calcium carbonate material. MCC is described, for example, in the following documents: US20120031576 A1, WO2009074492 A1, EP2264109 A1, EP2070991 A1 or EP2264108 A1.

[0070] The term "surface treated filler material product" in the meaning of the present invention refers to a calcium carbonate containing filler material which has been contacted with a surface treatment agent to obtain a coating layer on at least a part of the surface of the calcium carbonate containing filler material.

[0071] The term "dry" calcium carbonate-containing filler material is understood to mean a filler material having less than 0.3% by weight of water relative to the weight of the filler material. The % water (equal to the "residual total moisture content") is determined according to the coulometric Kalfisser measurement method, wherein the filler material is heated to 220° C. and the water content, which is released in the form of steam and separated using a nitrogen flow (100 ml / min), is determined in a coulometric Kalfisser cell.

[0072] The term "polymer masterbatch" (= or "masterbatch") refers to a composition with a relatively high filler content, preferably at least or equal to 60% by weight (based on the total weight of the composition). A "polymer masterbatch" can be added to an unfilled or underfilled polymer during processing to achieve a higher filler content. Nevertheless, a "polymer composition" (= or "composition") as defined above (and which is often also referred to as a "polymer compound" (= or "compound")) with a relatively low filler content, preferably less than 60% by weight (based on the total weight of the composition), can also be used directly in the production of polymer products.

[0073] The term "polymer composition" refers to a composite material comprising at least one additive (e.g. at least one filler) and at least one polymer material, which can be used in the production of polymer products. Thus, the term "polymer composition" (=composition) as used herein includes both "polymer masterbatch" and "polymer compound".

[0074] The "particle size" of a particulate material is herein defined by its weight-based particle size distribution. x Here, the value dx represents the diameter at which x% by weight of the particles have a diameter smaller than d x This means that for example d 20 The value refers to the particle size where 20% by weight of all particles are smaller than this particle size. 50 The value is thus the weight median particle size, ie the particle size below which 50% by weight of all particles are smaller. For the purposes of the present invention, unless otherwise indicated, the particle size is designated as the weight median particle size d 50 (wt). Particle size was determined by using a Sedigraph from Micromeritics Instrument Corporation. TM The method and the instrument are known to those skilled in the art and are commonly used for determining the particle size of fillers and pigments. The measurement is carried out in a 0.1% by weight aqueous solution of Na4P2O7.

[0075] The “specific surface area” (in m2) of a material is used throughout this document. 2 The total surface area (m2 / g) of the material can be determined by the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method using nitrogen as the adsorption gas and using a Micromeritics ASAP 2460 instrument. This method is well known to those skilled in the art and is defined in ISO 9277:2010. Prior to measurement, the sample is conditioned at 100°C under vacuum for 30 minutes. The total surface area (m2 / g) of the material can be obtained. 2 ).

[0076] For purposes of the present invention, the "solids content" of a liquid composition is a measure of the amount of material remaining after all of the solvent or water has evaporated.

[0077] The term "suspension" or "slurry" within the meaning of the present invention comprises insoluble solids and water and optionally further additives and generally contains a large amount of solids and is therefore more viscous and may have a higher density than the liquid from which it is formed.

[0078] The term "treatment layer" in the context of the present invention refers to a layer, preferably a monolayer, of a surface treatment agent on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material. The "treatment layer" comprises as surface treatment agent i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of a succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or a salt thereof, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4 to C24 and / or a salt thereof.

[0079] When the term "comprising" is used in this specification and claims, it does not exclude other elements of major or minor functional importance not specifically stated. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "consisting of" is considered to be a preferred embodiment of the term "comprising". If a group is defined below as comprising at least a certain number of embodiments, this is also understood to disclose a group that preferably consists only of these embodiments.

[0080] Wherever the terms "including" or "having" are used, these terms are considered equivalent to "comprising" as defined above.

[0081] Where an indefinite or definite article is used when referring to a singular noun eg "a", "an" or "the", this includes a plural of that noun unless the context specifically states otherwise.

[0082] Terms such as "obtainable" or "definable" and "obtained" or "defined" are used interchangeably. This means, for example, that unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "obtained" is not meant to indicate, for example, that an embodiment must be obtained by, for example, the sequence of steps following the term "obtained," although the term "obtained" or "defined" always includes such a restrictive understanding as a preferred embodiment.

[0083] The breathable film of the present invention comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product, based on the total weight of the breathable film. The surface-treated filler material product comprises A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having a weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm, - top cut particle size d 98 ≤15 μm, - Specific surface area (BET) measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method is 0.5-150 m 2 / g, and a residual total moisture content of 0.05-0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material; B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, comprising i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon atom count of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or a salt thereof, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom count of C4 to C24 and / or a salt thereof; wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material. In addition, the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa, measured according to ISO 527-3.

[0084] The details and preferred embodiments of the product of the present invention will be described in more detail below. It should be understood that these technical details and embodiments also apply to the method of the present invention for producing the breathable membrane and the use of the breathable membrane and the surface-treated filler material product of the present invention.

[0085] Biodegradable polymers

[0086] The breathable film of the present invention comprises at least one biodegradable polymer. It should be understood that the at least one biodegradable polymer is not limited to a specific material, as long as the polymer is suitable for preparing a breathable film and has a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3.

[0087] Preferably, the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus measured according to ISO 527-3 of less than 1700 MPa, more preferably less than 1500 MPa, even more preferably less than 1000 MPa and most preferably less than 700 MPa. It should be understood that there is no lower limit to the tensile E-modulus, as long as the at least one biodegradable polymer provides sufficient film processing properties. For example, the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus measured according to ISO 527-3 of greater than 10 MPa, more preferably greater than 20 MPa, even more preferably greater than 25 MPa and most preferably greater than 30 MPa.

[0088] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus measured according to ISO 527-3 of less than 100 MPa, such as 10-100 MPa, preferably 20-100 MPa, more preferably 25-100 MPa and most preferably 30-100 MPa.

[0089] It should be understood that the expression "at least one" biodegradable polymer means that the biodegradable polymer comprises one or more types of biodegradable polymers, preferably consists of one or more types of biodegradable polymers.

[0090] Therefore, it should be noted that the at least one biodegradable polymer can be one type of biodegradable polymer. Alternatively, the at least one biodegradable polymer can be a mixture of two or more types of biodegradable polymers. For example, the at least one biodegradable polymer can be a mixture of two or three types of biodegradable polymers (e.g., two types of biodegradable polymers).

[0091] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises, preferably consists of, two types of biodegradable polymers.

[0092] Alternatively, the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises, preferably consists of, one type of biodegradable polymer.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer is selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polylactic acid based polymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymers, poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polygluconate, poly (dihydroxybutyrate); alkyl ketone), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), polycaprolactone-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer, polycaprolactone-polylactic acid copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), poly(propylene succinate) (PPS) and mixtures thereof, preferably polylactic acid, polylactic acid-based polymers, polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and mixtures thereof.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer is selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polylactic acid based polymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymers, poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polygluconate, poly (dihydroxybutyrate); poly(lactic acid), poly(ethylene glycol), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), poly(propylene succinate) (PPS), and mixtures thereof.

[0095] In one embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer is selected from the group comprising, preferably the group consisting of, polylactic acid, polylactic acid based polymers, polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and mixtures thereof.

[0096] If the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises, preferably consists of, one type of biodegradable polymer, the biodegradable polymer is preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT).

[0097] If the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises two types of biodegradable polymers, preferably consists of two types of biodegradable polymers, the at least one biodegradable polymer preferably comprises, more preferably consists of, a blend of polylactic acid or a polylactic acid-based polymer and another biodegradable polymer, the other biodegradable polymer being selected from the group comprising, preferably consisting of, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymers, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polygluconate, poly(dihydroxybutyrate); alkyl ketone), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), polycaprolactone-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer, polycaprolactone-polylactic acid copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), poly(propylene succinate) (PPS).

[0098] In this case, the blend of at least one biodegradable polymer comprises polylactic acid or a polylactic acid-based polymer and another biodegradable polymer, preferably in a weight ratio of 9:1 to 1:10, more preferably in a weight ratio of 1:10 to 1:2.

[0099] Alternatively, if the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises two types of biodegradable polymers, preferably consists of two types of biodegradable polymers, the at least one biodegradable polymer preferably comprises a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and another biodegradable polymer, more preferably consists of a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and another biodegradable polymer, the other biodegradable polymer being selected from the group comprising, preferably consisting of, polylactic acid, polylactic acid-based polymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymers, poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polygluconic acid, poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); poly (dihydrogen phosphate); alkyl ketone), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polycaprolactone (PCL), polycaprolactone-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer, polycaprolactone-polylactic acid copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), poly(propylene succinate) (PPS).

[0100] In this case, the blend of at least one biodegradable polymer comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and another biodegradable polymer, preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:9, more preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 2:1.

[0101] For example, the at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid. Preferably, the blend comprises polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid, preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:9, more preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 2:1.

[0102] Alternatively, the at least one biodegradable polymer preferably comprises a blend of polybutylene succinate (PBS) and another biodegradable polymer, more preferably consists of a blend of polybutylene succinate (PBS) and another biodegradable polymer, the other biodegradable polymer being selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polylactic acid-based polymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), polyhydroxyvalerate, polyhydroxybutyrate-polyhydroxyvalerate copolymer, poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate); polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), polygluconate, poly (dihydroxybutyrate); poly(lactic acid), poly(ethylene glycol), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), and poly(propylene succinate) (PPS).

[0103] In one embodiment, the blend of the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises polybutylene succinate (PBS) and another biodegradable polymer, preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:9, more preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 2:1. For example, the at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polylactic acid. Preferably, the blend comprises polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polylactic acid, preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:9, more preferably in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 2:1.

[0104] In one embodiment, the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises polylactic acid.Preferably, the polylactic acid has 1-10% by weight, more preferably 2-5% by weight, of D isomer, based on the total weight of the polylactic acid.

[0105] There is no particular restriction on the molecular weight of the polylactic acid used in the present invention. However, the number average molecular weight Mn measured by gel permeation chromatography is 50000-250000 g / mol, preferably 80000-200000 g / mol. If the number average molecular weight is less than the above range, the mechanical strength (tensile strength, impact strength) of the polymer composition is too low. On the other hand, if the number average molecular weight is greater than the above range, the melt viscosity may be too high and cannot be processed. Additionally or alternatively, the polylactic acid preferably has a melt flow rate MFR (190°C, 2.16kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of 1.0-50.0 g / 10min, preferably 2.0-30.0 g / 10min and most preferably 2.3-15.0 g / 10min.

[0106] Additionally or alternatively, the polylactic acid has a density of 1.21-1.27 g / m 3 , preferably 1.23-1.25g / m 3 .

[0107] Examples of polylactic acid-based polymers suitable for use in the present breathable film include copolymers of lactic acid and blends of polylactic acid.

[0108] If the polylactic acid-based polymer is a copolymer, the polylactic acid-based polymer may contain other copolymer components in addition to lactic acid. Examples of other copolymer components include hydroxybutyric acid, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, hydroxyvaleric acid, 3-hydroxyvaleric acid and citric acid.

[0109] The polylactic acid based polymer preferably has a melt flow rate MFR (190° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of 1.0-50.0 g / 10 min, preferably 2.0-30.0 g / 10 min and most preferably 2.3-15.0 g / 10 min.

[0110] Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) preferably has a melt flow rate MFR (190° C., 2.16 kg) measured according to ISO 1133 of 1.0-50.0 g / 10 min, preferably 1.5-30.0 g / 10 min and most preferably 2.0-15.0 g / 10 min.

[0111] Additionally or alternatively, polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) has a density of 1.21-1.28 g / m 3 , preferably 1.24-1.27g / m 3 .

[0112] As mentioned above, the at least one biodegradable polymer is required to have a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3. It should be understood that polylactic acid polymers have a tensile E-modulus of much greater than 2500 MPa, for example, about 3200 MPa, measured according to ISO 527-3. Therefore, if the at least one biodegradable polymer comprises polylactic acid, the at least one biodegradable polymer must comprise another biodegradable polymer to reduce the tensile E-modulus to less than 2100 MPa.

[0113] For example, the at least one biodegradable polymer is composed of 10-60% by weight of polylactic acid and 40-90% by weight of another biodegradable polymer (preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) based on the total weight of the at least one biodegradable polymer. Preferably, the at least one biodegradable polymer is composed of 10-50% by weight of polylactic acid and 50-90% by weight of another biodegradable polymer (preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) based on the total weight of the at least one biodegradable polymer. More preferably, the at least one biodegradable polymer is composed of 10-40% by weight of polylactic acid and 60-90% by weight of another biodegradable polymer (preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT)) based on the total weight of the at least one biodegradable polymer. Most preferably, the at least one biodegradable polymer consists of polylactic acid in an amount of 10-30 wt% and another biodegradable polymer, preferably polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), in an amount of 70-90 wt%, based on the total weight of the at least one biodegradable polymer.

[0114] Surface treated filler material products

[0115] The breathable membrane of the present invention further comprises a surface treated filler material product, wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material having several essential features, as defined in claim 1 and described in more detail below.

[0116] The at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material within the meaning of the present invention is a filler material selected from the group consisting of natural ground calcium carbonate (GCC), precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), modified calcium carbonate (MCC), surface-treated calcium carbonate, or mixtures thereof. According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is natural ground calcium carbonate (GCC), more preferably, the ground calcium carbonate-containing filler is wet-ground natural ground calcium carbonate.

[0117] GCC is understood to mean naturally occurring forms of calcium carbonate, mined from sedimentary rocks such as limestone or chalk, or metamorphosed marble, and processed by wet processing such as grinding, screening and / or classification (e.g. with the aid of cyclones or classifiers). In one embodiment of the invention, the GCC is selected from marble, chalk, dolomite, limestone and mixtures thereof.

[0118] " precipitated calcium carbonate " (PCC) in the meaning of the present invention is synthetic material, usually by precipitation after carbon dioxide and lime reaction in aqueous environment or by calcium and carbonate ion source precipitation in water or by calcium and carbonate ion (for example CaCl and Na CO ) be precipitated out and obtain from solution.Other possible modes of producing PCC are lime soda process, or Solvay process, and wherein PCC is the by product of ammonia production.Precipitated calcium carbonate exists with three kinds of elementary crystalline forms: calcite, aragonite and vaterite, and for each crystalline form in these crystalline forms, there are many different polymorphs (crystal habit).Calcite has triangular structure, and this triangular structure has typical crystal habit as scalenohedral (S-PCC), rhombohedral (R-PCC), hexagonal prism, axial face, colloid (C-PCC), cubic and prismatic (P-PCC). Aragonite has an orthorhombic structure with a typical crystal habit of paired hexagonal prisms, as well as various forms such as elongated prisms, curved blades, steep cones, chisel-pointed crystals, branching trees, and coral or worm-like forms. Vaterite belongs to the hexagonal system. The resulting PCC slurry can be mechanically dehydrated and dried.

[0119] Modified calcium carbonate can be characterized as having a modified internal structure of GCC or PCC or surface-reacted GCC or PCC. Surface-reacted calcium carbonate can be prepared by providing GCC or PCC in the form of an aqueous suspension and adding an acid to the suspension. Suitable acids include, for example, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, or a mixture thereof. In the next step, the calcium carbonate is treated with gaseous carbon dioxide. If a strong acid such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid is used in the acid treatment step, carbon dioxide will automatically form in situ. Alternatively or additionally, the carbon dioxide can be supplied from an external source. Surface-reacted calcium carbonate is described, for example, in the following documents: US20120031576 A1, WO 2009074492 A1, EP2264109 A1, EP2070991 A1, or EP2264108 A1.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is marble, more preferably wet-ground marble.

[0121] It will be appreciated that the amount of ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate in the at least one calcium carbonate-containing filler material is at least 80 wt.-%, such as at least 95 wt.-%, preferably 97-100 wt.-%, more preferably 98.5-99.95 wt.-%, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0122] The at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material is preferably in the form of a granular material and may have a particle size distribution conventionally used for materials involved in the type of product to be produced. Generally, a particular requirement of the present invention is that the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a weight median particle size d 50 For example, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a weight median particle size d 50 The value is 0.25 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 4 μm, and most preferably 0.6 μm to 2 μm.

[0123] A further requirement of the present invention is that the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a top cut value (d 98 For example, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a top cut value (d ) of ≤ 12.5 μm, preferably ≤ 10 μm, more preferably ≤ 7.5 μm and most preferably ≤ 6.5 μm. 98 ).

[0124] It is understood that the weight median particle size d of the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material is 50Value and top cut value (d 98 ) satisfy a specific ratio. For example, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a weight median particle size d of 0.1 to 0.4, preferably 0.1 to 0.3 and most preferably 0.15 to 0.30. 50 Value and top cut value (d 98 ) ratio [d 50 / d 98 ].

[0125] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a fineness such that at least 5% by weight, preferably at least 7% by weight, even more preferably at least 9% by weight and most preferably at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm.

[0126] In one embodiment, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a fineness such that 5-70% by weight, even more preferably 7-60% by weight and most preferably 9-50% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm. For example, 11-15% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm. Alternatively, 30-45% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm.

[0127] In one embodiment, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has

[0128] a) a weight median particle size d of 0.25 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 4 μm and most preferably 0.6 μm to 2 μm 50 ,as well as

[0129] b) a top cut value (d) of ≤ 12.5 μm, preferably ≤ 10 μm, more preferably ≤ 7.5 μm and most preferably ≤ 6.5 μm 98 ),as well as

[0130] c) A fineness such that at least 5% by weight, preferably at least 7% by weight, even more preferably at least 9% by weight and most preferably at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm.

[0131] For example, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has

[0132] a) Weight median particle size d of 0.6 μm to 2 μm 50 ,as well as

[0133] b) Top cut value ≤ 6.5 μm (d 98 ),as well as

[0134] c) A fineness such that at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm.

[0135] It is also understood that the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a relative humidity of 0.5 to 150 m³ as measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method. 2 For example, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a BET surface area of ​​0.5 to 50 m / g as measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method. 2 / g, more preferably 0.5 to 35m 2 / g and most preferably 0.5 to 15m 2 / g specific surface area (BET).

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has

[0137] a) Weight median particle size d of 0.6 μm to 2 μm 50 ,as well as

[0138] b) Top cut particle size d≤6.5μm 98 ,as well as

[0139] c) a fineness such that at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of <0.5 μm, and

[0140] d) 0.5 to 15 m³ measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method 2 / g specific surface area (BET).

[0141] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material preferably has a weight median particle size d in the range of 0.1 μm to 7 μm, preferably 0.25 μm to 5 μm, more preferably 0.5 μm to 4 μm and most preferably 0.6 μm to 2 μm. 50 In this case, the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material exhibits a relative humidity of 0.5 to 150 m / s as measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method. 2 / g, preferably 0.5 to 50m 2 / g, more preferably 0.5 to 35m 2 / g and most preferably 0.5 to 15m 2 / g of BET specific surface area.

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, the ground calcium carbonate-containing filler is a wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler. However, dry-ground calcium carbonate-containing fillers can also be used.

[0143] The wet grinding step can be carried out under conditions such that autogenous grinding occurs and / or by horizontal ball milling and / or other such methods known to those skilled in the art. The processed ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material thus obtained can be washed and dehydrated by well-known methods, for example by flocculation, filtration or forced evaporation (before drying). The subsequent drying step can be carried out in a single step (such as spray drying), or in at least two steps, for example, the wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is subjected to a first heating step to reduce the relevant moisture content to a level of not more than about 0.5% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material. The residual total moisture content of the filler can be measured by Karl Fischer coulometric titration in an oven at 195° C., desorbing water and continuously passing it through a KF coulometer (Mettler Toledo coulometric KF Titrator C30, in combination with a Mettler oven DO 0337) at 100 ml / min for 10 minutes. The residual total moisture content can be determined using a calibration curve and a blind spot in the air flow in which there is no sample for 10 min can also be taken into account. The residual total moisture content can be further reduced by subjecting the at least one wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material to a second heating step. In the case where the drying is carried out by more than one drying step, the first step can be carried out by heating in a hot air stream, while the second and additional drying steps are preferably carried out by indirect heating, wherein the atmosphere in the respective container comprises a surface treatment agent. Also commonly, the at least one wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is subjected to a beneficiation step (such as flotation, bleaching or magnetic separation step) to remove impurities.

[0144] In another preferred embodiment, the at least one ground, especially wet ground, calcium carbonate-containing filler material is a material which is ground in a horizontal ball mill and subsequently dried by using known spray drying methods.

[0145] According to the present invention, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-comprising filler material has a residual moisture content of 0.05-0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-comprising filler material.

[0146] In one embodiment, the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has 0.05-0.2 wt. %, more preferably 0.05-0.15 wt. % and most preferably 0.05-0.15 wt. % based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0147] For example, in case ground (especially wet ground) and spray dried marble is used as the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, the residual total moisture content of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is preferably 0.05-0.2% by weight, more preferably 0.07-0.18% by weight and most preferably 0.09-0.12% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material. If PCC is used as the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, the residual total moisture content of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is preferably 0.05-0.2% by weight, more preferably 0.05-0.17% by weight and most preferably 0.05-0.10% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0148] According to the present invention, the surface treated filler material product further comprises a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground, in particular wet ground, calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0149] This processing layer contains

[0150] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0151] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4-C24 and / or its salt.

[0152] In one embodiment, the treatment layer comprises

[0153] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, or

[0154] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4-C24 and / or its salt.

[0155] In an alternative embodiment, the treatment layer comprises

[0156] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and

[0157] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4-C24 and / or its salt.

[0158] Particularly preferably, the treatment layer comprises

[0159] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, or

[0160] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4-C24 and / or its salt.

[0161] Good properties with regard to the combination of low noise and good mechanical properties are particularly achieved if the treatment layer comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C2 to C30.

[0162] Therefore, the treatment layer preferably comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or its salt, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C2 to C30.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the treatment layer comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C2 to C30. Preferably, the treatment layer comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group, which is a linear aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C2 to C30. Additionally or alternatively, the treatment layer comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group, which is a branched aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C3 to C30. Additionally or alternatively, the treatment layer comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group which is a cyclic aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C5 to C30.

[0164] It is therefore noted that the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride can be one type of mono-substituted succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride can be a mixture of two or more types of mono-substituted succinic anhydrides. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride can be a mixture of two or three types of mono-substituted succinic anhydrides (such as two types of mono-substituted succinic anhydrides).

[0165] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is one type of mono-substituted succinic anhydride.

[0166] It is understood that the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride represents the surface treating agent and consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from any linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total carbon number of C2 to C30 in the substituent.

[0167] In one embodiment of the invention, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is made up of the succinic anhydride that utilizes the linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups that the total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent is C3 to C20.For example, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is made up of the succinic anhydride that utilizes the linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups that the total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent is C4 to C18.Preferably, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is made up of the succinic anhydride that utilizes the linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups that the total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent is C3 to C20, preferably C4 to C18.Linear, and / or its salt.Extraly or in addition optionally, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is made up of the succinic anhydride that utilizes the linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups that the total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent is C3 to C20, preferably C4 to C18. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group which is a cyclic aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C5 to C20, preferably C5 to C18, and / or a salt thereof.

[0168] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group, which is a linear aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group, which is a branched aliphatic group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C3 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18.

[0169] Thus preferably, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group being a linear alkyl group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group being a branched alkyl group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C3 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18.

[0170] For example, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group, which is a linear alkyl group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group, which is a branched alkyl group having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C3 to C30, preferably C3 to C20 and most preferably C4 to C18.

[0171] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride is at least one linear or branched alkyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride. For example, the at least one alkyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride is selected from ethylsuccinic anhydride, propylsuccinic anhydride, butylsuccinic anhydride, triisobutylsuccinic anhydride, amylsuccinic anhydride, hexylsuccinic anhydride, heptylsuccinic anhydride, octylsuccinic anhydride, nonylsuccinic anhydride, decylsuccinic anhydride, dodecylsuccinic anhydride, hexadecylsuccinic anhydride, octadecylsuccinic anhydride, and mixtures thereof.

[0172] Thus, it should be understood that, for example, the term "butyl succinic anhydride" includes linear and branched butyl succinic anhydrides. A specific example of linear butyl succinic anhydride is n-butyl succinic anhydride. Specific examples of branched butyl succinic anhydrides are isobutyl succinic anhydride, sec-butyl succinic anhydride and / or tert-butyl succinic anhydride.

[0173] Furthermore, it is to be understood that, for example, the term "hexadecylsuccinic anhydride" includes linear as well as branched hexadecylsuccinic anhydrides. A specific example of a linear hexadecylsuccinic anhydride is n-hexadecylsuccinic anhydride. Specific examples of branched hexadecylsuccinic anhydrides are 14-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 13-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 12-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 11-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 10-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 9-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 8-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 7-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 6-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 5-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 4-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 3-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 1-methylpentadecylsuccinic anhydride, 13-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 12-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 11-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 10-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 9-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 8-ethyl Tetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 7-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 6-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 5-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 4-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 3-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 1-ethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-butyldodecylsuccinic anhydride, 1-hexyldecylsuccinic anhydride, 1-hexyl-2-decylsuccinic anhydride, 2-hexyldecylsuccinic anhydride, 6,12-dimethyltetradecylsuccinic anhydride, 2,2-diethyldodecylsuccinic anhydride, 4,8,12-trimethyltridecylsuccinic anhydride, 2,2,4,6,8-pentamethylundecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-ethyl-4-methyl-2-(2-methylpentyl)-heptylsuccinic anhydride and / or 2-ethyl-4,6-dimethyl-2-propylnonylsuccinic anhydride.

[0174] It should also be understood that, for example, the term "octadecyl succinic anhydride" includes linear as well as branched octadecyl succinic anhydrides. A specific example of linear octadecyl succinic anhydride is n-octadecyl succinic anhydride. Specific examples of branched hexadecyl succinic anhydrides are 16-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 15-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 14-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 13-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 12-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 11-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 10-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 9-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 8-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 7-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 6-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 5-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 4-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 3-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 2-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 1-methylheptadecyl succinic anhydride, 14-ethyl hexadecyl succinic anhydride, 1-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 13-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 12-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 11-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 10-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 9-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 8-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 7-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 6-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 5-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 4-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 3-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 1-ethylhexadecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-hexyldodecylsuccinic anhydride, 2-heptylundecanylsuccinic anhydride, isooctadecanylsuccinic anhydride and / or 1-octyl-2-decylsuccinic anhydride.

[0175] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one alkyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride is selected from butylsuccinic anhydride, hexylsuccinic anhydride, heptylsuccinic anhydride, octylsuccinic anhydride, hexadecylsuccinic anhydride, octadecylsuccinic anhydride, and mixtures thereof.

[0176] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a type of alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride. For example, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is butyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is hexyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is heptyl succinic anhydride or octyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is hexadecyl succinic anhydride. For example, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear hexadecyl succinic anhydride such as n-hexadecyl succinic anhydride or branched hexadecyl succinic anhydride such as 1-hexyl-2-decyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is octadecyl succinic anhydride. For example, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear hexadecyl succinic anhydride such as n-octadecyl succinic anhydride or branched hexadecyl succinic anhydride such as isooctadecyl succinic anhydride or 1-octyl-2-decyl succinic anhydride.

[0177] In one embodiment of the present invention, the one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is butyl succinic anhydride such as n-butyl succinic anhydride.

[0178] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or three types of alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides.

[0179] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with one group being a linear or branched alkenyl group having a total number of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2-C30, preferably C3-C20 and most preferably C4-C18.

[0180] The term "alkenyl" within the meaning of the present invention refers to a linear or branched unsaturated organic compound composed of carbon and hydrogen. The organic compound further comprises at least one double bond, preferably one double bond, in a substituent. In other words, an "alkenyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride" consists of a linear or branched unsaturated hydrocarbon chain containing a pendant succinic anhydride group. It should be understood that the term "alkenyl" within the meaning of the present invention includes both cis- and trans-isomers.

[0181] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is at least one linear or branched alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride. For example, the at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is selected from vinyl succinic anhydride, propenyl succinic anhydride, butenyl succinic anhydride, triisobutenyl succinic anhydride, pentenyl succinic anhydride, hexenyl succinic anhydride, heptenyl succinic anhydride, octenyl succinic anhydride, nonenyl succinic anhydride, decenyl succinic anhydride, dodecenyl succinic anhydride, hexadecenyl succinic anhydride, octadecenyl succinic anhydride, and mixtures thereof.

[0182] It will be understood that, for example, the term "hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride" includes linear and branched hexadecenylsuccinic anhydrides. A specific example of a linear hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride is n-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, such as 14-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 13-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 12-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 11-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 10-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 9-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 8-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 7-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 6-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 5-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 4-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 3-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride and / or 2-hexadecenylsuccinic anhydride. Specific examples of branched hexadecenylsuccinic anhydrides are 14-methyl-9-pentadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 14-methyl-2-pentadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 1-hexyl-2-decenylsuccinic anhydride and / or isohexadecenylsuccinic anhydride.

[0183] In addition, it should be understood that, for example, the term "octadecenylsuccinic anhydride" includes linear and branched octadecenylsuccinic anhydrides. A specific example of a linear octadecenylsuccinic anhydride is n-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, such as 16-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 15-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 14-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 13-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 12-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 11-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 10-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 9-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 8-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 7-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 6-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 5-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 4-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 3-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride and / or 2-octadecenylsuccinic anhydride. Specific examples of branched octadecenylsuccinic anhydrides are 16-methyl-9-heptadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 16-methyl-7-heptadecenylsuccinic anhydride, 1-octyl-2-decenylsuccinic anhydride and / or isooctadecenylsuccinic anhydride.

[0184] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is selected from the group consisting of hexenyl succinic anhydride, octenyl succinic anhydride, hexadecenyl succinic anhydride, octadecenyl succinic anhydride, and mixtures thereof.

[0185] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a kind of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride.For example, the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is hexenyl succinic anhydride.Alternatively, the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is octenyl succinic anhydride.Alternatively, the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is hexadecenyl succinic anhydride.For example, the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear hexadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-hexadecenyl succinic anhydride or branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydride such as 1-hexyl-2-decenyl succinic anhydride.Alternatively, the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is octadecenyl succinic anhydride.For example, the alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-octadecenyl succinic anhydride or branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as isoctadecenyl succinic anhydride, or 1-octyl-2-decenyl succinic anhydride.

[0186] In one embodiment of the present invention, the one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-octadecenyl succinic anhydride. In another embodiment of the present invention, the one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-octadecenyl succinic anhydride.

[0187] If the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride is an alkenyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride, it is understood that the alkenyl monosubstituted succinic anhydride is present in an amount of ≥ 90 wt.-% and preferably ≥ 92.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride.

[0188] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or three types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides.

[0189] If the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear or branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride, and each of the other alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides is selected from vinyl succinic anhydride, propenyl succinic anhydride, butenyl succinic anhydride, pentenyl succinic anhydride, hexenyl succinic anhydride, heptenyl succinic anhydride, nonenyl succinic anhydride, hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and mixtures thereof. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, wherein one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride and each of the other alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides is selected from vinyl succinic anhydride, propenyl succinic anhydride, butenyl succinic anhydride, pentenyl succinic anhydride, hexenyl succinic anhydride, heptenyl succinic anhydride, nonenyl succinic anhydride, hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and mixtures thereof. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, wherein one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride and each of the other alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides is selected from vinyl succinic anhydride, propenyl succinic anhydride, butenyl succinic anhydride, pentenyl succinic anhydride, hexenyl succinic anhydride, heptenyl succinic anhydride, nonenyl succinic anhydride, hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and mixtures thereof.

[0190] For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, including one or more hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides, such as linear or branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides, and one or more octadecenyl succinic anhydrides, such as linear or branched octadecenyl succinic anhydrides.

[0191] In one embodiment of the invention, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is the mixture of the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride of two or more types, comprises linear hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride.Alternatively, this at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is the mixture of the alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride of two or more types, comprises branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride.For example, these one or more hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides are linear hexadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-hexadecenyl succinic anhydride and / or branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydride such as 1-hexyl-2-decenyl succinic anhydride.Extraly or additionally alternatively, these one or more octadecenyl succinic anhydrides are linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as n-octadecenyl succinic anhydride and / or branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride such as isoctadecenyl succinic anhydride and / or 1-octyl-2-decenyl succinic anhydride.

[0192] If the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, it is understood that one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is present in an amount of 20-60% by weight and preferably 30-50% by weight, based on the total weight of the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride provided in step b).

[0193] For example, if the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of two or more types of alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydrides, including one or more hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides, such as linear or branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides, and one or more octadecenyl succinic anhydrides, such as linear or branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydrides, it is understood that the one or more octadecenyl succinic anhydrides are present in an amount of 20-60% by weight and preferably 30-50% by weight, based on the total weight of the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride provided in step b).

[0194] It is also to be understood that the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride may be a mixture of at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride.

[0195] If the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride, it should be understood that the alkyl substituent of the at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and the alkenyl substituent of the at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride are preferably the same. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of ethyl succinic anhydride and vinyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of propyl succinic anhydride and propenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of butyl succinic anhydride and butenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of triisobutyl succinic anhydride and triisobutenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of amyl succinic anhydride and pentenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of hexyl succinic anhydride and hexenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of heptylsuccinic anhydride and heptenylsuccinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of octylsuccinic anhydride and octenylsuccinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of nonylsuccinic anhydride and nonenylsuccinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of decylsuccinic anhydride and decenylsuccinic anhydride.

[0196] Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of dodecyl succinic anhydride and dodecenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of hexadecyl succinic anhydride and hexadecenyl succinic anhydride. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of linear hexadecyl succinic anhydride and linear hexadecenyl succinic anhydride or a mixture of branched hexadecyl succinic anhydride and branched hexadecenyl succinic anhydride. Alternatively, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of octadecyl succinic anhydride and octadecenyl succinic anhydride. For example, the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of linear octadecyl succinic anhydride and linear octadecenyl succinic anhydride or a mixture of branched octadecyl succinic anhydride and branched octadecenyl succinic anhydride.

[0197] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of nonylsuccinic anhydride and nonenylsuccinic anhydride.

[0198] If the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride is a mixture of at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride, the weight ratio between the at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and the at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is between 90:10 and 10:90 (% weight / % ​​weight). For example, the weight ratio between the at least one alkyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride and the at least one alkenyl mono-substituted succinic anhydride is between 70:30 and 30:70 (% weight / % ​​weight) or between 60:40 and 40:60.

[0199] It is understood that the treatment layer may also comprise a salt reaction product of the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of at least C2 to C30.

[0200] This "salt reaction product" of the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride in the meaning of the present invention is the product obtained by contacting at least one ground (in particular wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material with at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride. The reaction product is formed between at least a portion of the at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride used and reactive molecules located at the surface of the at least one filler material, preferably the at least one ground (in particular wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0201] Additionally or alternatively, the treatment layer comprises at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom count of C4-C24 and / or its salt, more preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom count of C12-C20 and / or its salt and most preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom count of C16-C18 and / or its salt.

[0202] Carboxylic acid within the meaning of the present invention may be selected from one or more straight-chain, branched-chain, saturated or unsaturated and / or alicyclic carboxylic acids. Preferably, the aliphatic carboxylic acid is a monocarboxylic acid, i.e. the aliphatic carboxylic acid is characterized by the presence of a single carboxyl group. The carboxyl group is located at the end of the carbon skeleton.

[0203] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt is selected from saturated unbranched carboxylic acids, preferably from the group consisting of pentanoic acid, hexanoic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid, lauric acid, tridecanoic acid, myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, heptadecanoic acid, stearic acid, nonadecanoic acid, arachidic acid, eicosanoic acid, behenic acid, arachidic ... Acid, tricosanoic acid, tetracosanoic acid, their salts, their anhydrides and mixtures thereof.

[0204] In another embodiment of the present invention, the aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt is selected from caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the aliphatic carboxylic acid is selected from myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, their salts, their anhydrides and mixtures thereof.

[0205] Preferably, the aliphatic carboxylic acid and / or its salt or anhydride is stearic acid and / or a stearate salt or stearic anhydride.Most preferably, the aliphatic carboxylic acid is stearic acid.

[0206] Alternatively, the unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid is preferably selected from myristoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, supine acid, oleic acid, trans-oleic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and mixtures thereof. More preferably, the unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid is selected from myristoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, supine acid, oleic acid, trans-oleic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, and mixtures thereof. Most preferably, the unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid is oleic acid and / or linoleic acid, preferably oleic acid or linoleic acid, most preferably linoleic acid.

[0207] Additionally or alternatively, the treatment layer comprises a salt of an unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid.

[0208] The term "salt of an unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid" refers to an unsaturated fatty acid in which the active acid group is partially or completely neutralized. The unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid of the term "partially neutralized" refers to a degree of neutralization of the active acid group of 40-95 mol%, preferably 50-95 mol%, more preferably 60-95 mol% and most preferably 70-95 mol%. The unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid of the term "completely neutralized" refers to a degree of neutralization of the active acid group of >95 mol%, preferably >99 mol%, more preferably >99.8 mol% and most preferably 100 mol%. Preferably, the active acid group is partially or completely neutralized.

[0209] The salt of the unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid is preferably a compound selected from sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, lithium, strontium, primary amines, secondary amines, tertiary amines and / or their ammonium salts, wherein the amine salt is linear or cyclic. For example, the unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid is a salt of oleic acid and / or linoleic acid, preferably oleic acid or linoleic acid, and most preferably linoleic acid.

[0210] It will be appreciated that the treatment layer may also comprise salt reaction products such as one or more calcium and / or magnesium salts of the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom count of C4-C24.

[0211] This "salt reaction product" of the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid in the sense of the present invention is the product obtained by contacting at least one ground (in particular wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material with at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid. The reaction product is formed between at least a portion of the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid used and reactive molecules located at the surface of the at least one filler material, preferably the at least one ground (in particular wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0212] The treatment layer is formed on the surface of the at least one ground, in particular wet ground, calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0213] It is a requirement of the present invention that the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1 to 3 wt. %, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground (especially wet ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0214] According to one embodiment, the surface-treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-2.8 wt.-%, more preferably 0.1-2.5 wt.-%, even more preferably 0.3-2.5 wt.-% and most preferably 0.5-2.5 wt.-%, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground (in particular wet-ground) calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0215] The treatment layer is preferably characterized in that the total weight of the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or its salt (the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon atom content of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent) and / or the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4 to C24 and / or its salt, on the surface of the surface-treated filler material product is 0.05-1% by weight / m 2 , more preferably 0.1-0.5% weight / m 2 And most preferably 0.15-0.25% weight / m 2 of the at least one ground, in particular wet ground, calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0216] In one embodiment of the present invention, the treatment layer is characterized in that the total weight of the at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or its salt (the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consists of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent) and / or the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4 to C24 and / or its salt, on the surface of the surface-treated filler material product is 0.1-5 mg / m 2 , more preferably 0.25-4.5 mg / m 2 And most preferably 1.0-4.0 mg / m 2 of the at least one calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0217] In particular, the surface treated filler material product is characterized by a low water uptake sensitivity. Preferably, the surface treated filler material product has a water uptake sensitivity such that at a temperature of approximately +23°C (±2°C) its total surface moisture content is less than 1 mg / g of dry calcium carbonate-containing filler material. For example, the surface treated filler material product has a water uptake sensitivity of 0.1-1 mg / g, more preferably 0.2-0.9 mg / g and most preferably 0.2-0.8 mg / g of dry calcium carbonate-containing material after exposure to a temperature of +23°C (±2°C).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the breathable membrane comprises the surface treated filler material product in an amount of 40-65 wt%, preferably 40-60 wt% and most preferably 40 wt% to 55 wt%, based on the total weight of the breathable membrane.

[0219] The surface treated filler material product as described above is used as a filler in a breathable film.

[0220] breathable membrane

[0221] According to the present invention, a breathable film is provided, which comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises

[0222] A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having

[0223] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm,

[0224] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15μm,

[0225] - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and

[0226] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material,

[0227] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0228] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0229] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0230] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0231] wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus lower than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3.

[0232] The breathable film comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable film.

[0233] The breathable film can be produced in a wide range of basis weights. Thus, the breathable film has a basis weight of 8-40 g / m 2 , preferably 15-38g / m 2 And most preferably 20-36g / m 2 .

[0234] According to one embodiment, the breathable membrane has a thickness of 6-40 μm.

[0235] The breathable membrane is advantageous because it is biodegradable and provides low noise performance. In addition, the breathable membrane provides good mechanical properties.

[0236] For example, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2The breathable film has a breaking force in CD direction measured according to ISO 527-3 of 0.3-15 N, more preferably 0.5-12 N, even more preferably 0.5-10 N and most preferably 0.5-5.5 N at a basis weight of 1000 Å.

[0237] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has a breaking force in CD direction measured according to ISO 527-3 of 0.3-15 N, more preferably 0.5-12 N, even more preferably 0.5-10 N and most preferably 0.5-5.5 N at a basis weight of 1000 Å.

[0238] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 The breathable film has a breaking force in the MD direction of 3-40 N, more preferably 6-32 N and most preferably 8-28 N, measured according to ISO 527-3 at a basis weight of 1000 Å.

[0239] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has a breaking force in the MD direction of 0.3-15 N, more preferably 3-40 N, more preferably 6-32 N and most preferably 8-28 N at a basis weight of 1.5 wt %.

[0240] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 The breathable film has an elastic modulus in the CD direction of 20-1000 N / mm measured according to ISO 527-3 at a basis weight of 2 And most preferably 20-490N / mm 2 .

[0241] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has an elastic modulus in the CD direction of 20-1000 N / mm2 measured according to ISO527-3 at a basis weight of 2 And most preferably 20-490N / mm 2 .

[0242] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 The breathable film has an elastic modulus in the MD direction of 100-2000 N / mm measured according to ISO 527-3 at a basis weight of 2 And most preferably 100-1700N / mm 2 .

[0243] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has an elastic modulus in the MD direction of 100-2000 N / mm2 measured according to ISO527-3 at a basis weight of 2 And most preferably 100-1700N / mm 2 .

[0244] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 The breathable film has a maximum elongation at break in the CD direction measured according to ISO 527-3 of 5-1000% and most preferably 16-800% at a basis weight of 1000%.

[0245] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has a maximum elongation at break in the CD direction measured according to ISO 527-3 of 5-1000% and most preferably 16-800% at a basis weight of 1.5-2.5 wt%.

[0246] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 The breathable film has a maximum elongation at break in the MD direction of 5-500% and most preferably 27-200% at a basis weight of 1000 wt %.

[0247] In one embodiment, the 2 The breathable film has a maximum elongation at break in the MD direction of 5-500% and most preferably 27-200% at a basis weight of 1000 wt %.

[0248] Additionally or alternatively, in the range of 8-36 g / m 2 , preferably 20-36g / m 2 At a basis weight of 1000 Å, the breathable film has a water column (hydrostatic pressure) of 50-700 mbar and most preferably 75-600 mbar, measured according to the method given in the Examples section.

[0249] In one embodiment, the 2 At a basis weight of 1000 Å, the breathable film has a water column (hydrostatic pressure) of 50-700 mbar and most preferably 75-600 mbar, measured according to the method given in the Examples section.

[0250] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the breathable membrane has good surface quality and reduced potential for skin irritation.

[0251] The breathability of the breathable film can be measured by its water vapor transmission rate. According to one embodiment, the breathable film has a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 500-5000 g / (m 2 ·day), preferably 750-3000g / (m 2 ·day), more preferably 600-1500g / (m 2 · days), measured according to ASTM 398 using a Lyssy L80-5000 measuring device.

[0252] According to one embodiment, the breathable membrane has a hydrostatic pressure of 100-1000 mbar, preferably 200-800 mbar, more preferably 250-650 mbar, measured with a FX 3000 Hydrotester according to the method already described above.

[0253] According to one embodiment, the breathable film further comprises an additive selected from the group consisting of UV-absorbers, light stabilizers, processing stabilizers, antioxidants, heat stabilizers, nucleating agents, metal deactivators, impact modifiers, plasticizers, lubricants, rheology modifiers, processing aids, pigments, dyes, optical brighteners, antimicrobial agents, antistatic agents, lubricants, anti-caking agents, coupling agents, dispersants, compatibilizers, oxygen scavengers, acid scavengers, markers, anti-fog agents, surface modifiers, flame retardants, foaming agents, smoke suppressants, reinforcing agents such as glass fibers, carbon fibers and / or glass bubbles, or mixtures thereof.

[0254] Preferably, the additive is selected from the class of acid scavengers based on salts of long-chain carboxylic acids, such as calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, zinc stearate and calcium lactate, or may be a hydrotalcite; from the class of stabilizers based on phenolic antioxidants, benzofuranones, hydroxylamines, nitrones, thiosynergists and phosphites / phosphonites; from the class of light stabilizers based on hindered amines (HALS); from the class of metal deactivators; from the class of dispersants, coupling agents or compatibilizers or a mixture of any of the aforementioned additives.

[0255] Suitable phenolic antioxidants are, for example, octadecyl-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, pentaerythritol-tetrakis[3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)isocyanurate, 1,3,5-trimethyl-2,4,6-tris(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl)benzene, triethylene glycol-bis[3-(3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)propionate, N,N′-hexane-1,6-diylbis[3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionamide.

[0256] Suitable phosphites / phosphonites are, for example: tris-(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite, 3,9-bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenoxy)-2,4,8,10-tetraoxa-3,9-diphosphaspiro[5.5]undecene, tetrakis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)[1,1-biphenyl]-4,4′-diylbisphosphonite.

[0257] Suitable sterically hindered amines are, for example: 1,1-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl)succinate, bis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, bis(1-octyloxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, bis(1,2,2,6,6-pentamethyl-4-piperidyl) 6-pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl)-n-butyl-3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzyl malonate, condensation product of 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-hydroxypiperidine and succinic acid, N,N'-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)hexamethylenediamine and 4-tert-octylamino-2,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazine cyclic or cyclic condensation products, tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) nitrilotriacetate, tetrakis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylate, 1,1'-(1,2-ethanediyl)-bis(3,3,5,5-tetramethylpiperazinone), 4-benzoyl-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine, 4-stearyl Oxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine, linear or cyclic condensation products of N,N'-bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)hexamethylenediamine and 4-morpholino-2,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazine, reaction products of 7,7,9,9-tetramethyl-2-cycloundecyl-1-oxa-3,8-diaza-4-oxaspiro[4.5]decene and epichlorohydrin.

[0258] Suitable dispersants are, for example: polyacrylates such as copolymers with long side chains, and polyacrylate block copolymers; alkylamides, such as N,N'-1,2-ethanediylbisoctadecanoamide; sorbitan esters, such as monostearyl sorbitan ester; titanates and zirconates; reactive copolymers, such as polypropylene-acrylic acid copolymers; polypropylene-maleic anhydride copolymers; polyethylene-glycidyl methacrylate copolymers; polystyrene-maleic anhydride-polysiloxane alternating copolymers, such as dimethylsilanediol-ethylene oxide copolymers; polyphenylsiloxane copolymers; amphiphilic copolymers, such as polyethylene-polyethylene oxide block copolymers; and dendrimers, such as hydroxyl-containing dendrimers.

[0259] Suitable metal deactivators may be, for example, N,N'-bis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenylpropionyl)hydrazine. According to another embodiment, the metal deactivator may be selected from one or more of the following structures:

[0260]

[0261] According to a preferred embodiment, the breathable membrane comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable membrane, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises

[0262] A) at least one ground (especially wet ground), preferably natural ground calcium carbonate, having

[0263] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.25 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.5 μm to 4 μm and most preferably 0.6 μm to 2 μm,

[0264] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤12.5μm, preferably ≤10μm,

[0265] - Specific surface area (BET) measured according to ISO 9277 using nitrogen and the BET method is 0.5-35 m 2 / g, preferably 0.5-15m 2 / g, and

[0266] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.2% by weight, preferably 0.05 to 0.15% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0267] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0268] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0269] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0270] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-1 wt%, preferably 0.2-0.08 wt%, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0271] wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus measured according to ISO 527-3 of less than 1700 MPa, more preferably less than 1500 MPa, even more preferably less than 1000 MPa and most preferably less than 700 MPa.

[0272] The breathable membrane of the present invention can be produced by any method known in the art. According to one embodiment, the method for producing the breathable membrane comprises the following steps:

[0273] a) providing a composition comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a surface treated filler material product, wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3, and

[0274] b) forming a film from the composition of step a), and

[0275] c) stretching the film obtained in step b) in at least one direction,

[0276] The surface treated filler material product comprises

[0277] A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having

[0278] -Weight median particle size d 50 0.1μm-7μm,

[0279] - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15μm,

[0280] - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and

[0281] - a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and

[0282] B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising

[0283] i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a radical selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic radicals having a total carbon number of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent, and / or

[0284] ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, preferably at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon number of C4-C24 and / or its salt,

[0285] wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

[0286] The composition of this at least one biodegradable polymer and this surface-treated filler material product provided in method step a) can be produced by mixing or compounding described component.This at least one biodegradable polymer and this surface-treated filler material product and other optional additives if present can be mixed by using applicable mixing machine such as Henschel mixer, super mixer, drum mixer or similar mixer.The compounding step can utilize applicable forcing machine, preferably by twin-screw extruder (co-directional or counter-rotating) or by any other applicable continuous compounding equipment such as continuous co-kneader (Buss), continuous mixer (Farrel Pomini), annular extruder (Extricom) or similar device to complete.From the continuous polymer block extruded, (heat-cut) die face (die face) granulation or by utilizing underwater granulation, eccentric granulation and water ring granulation to granulate by utilizing underwater (cold-cut) strand granulation and traditional strand granulation to granulate, so that the polymer block extruded is formed into pellet.

[0287] Optionally, the compounding step can also be carried out as a discontinuous or batch process using an internal (batch) mixer such as a Banburry mixer (HF Mixing Group) or a Brabender mixer (Brabender) or similar mixers.

[0288] According to an optional embodiment, the composition provided in method step a) further comprises one or more of the above-mentioned additives.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the composition provided in step a) of the method is a masterbatch. According to a preferred embodiment, the masterbatch comprises 50-85% by weight, preferably 60-85% by weight, and more preferably 70-80% by weight of the surface-treated filler material product, based on the total weight of the masterbatch. The masterbatch can be in the form of pellets, beads, or granules.

[0290] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the composition provided in step a) is a masterbatch or compound obtained by mixing and / or kneading the at least one thermoplastic polymer and the surface-treated filler material product to form a mixture, and continuously granulating the mixture. For example, the granulation of the resulting mixture can be carried out underwater. Continuously means at least 1 hour, preferably at least 2 hours, and most preferably at least 3 hours without interruption. For example, continuously means at least 8 hours, preferably at least 24 hours, and more preferably more than 170 hours without interruption.

[0291] The use of the surface coating of the present invention can minimize the risk of leaching of the surface coating, especially when in contact with human skin. Therefore, by using the surface-treated filler material product of the present invention, preferably a product in which the treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprises at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride (composed of succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total carbon atom count of at least C2 to C30 in the substituent) and / or its salt, a breathable membrane with reduced skin irritation potential can be produced.

[0292] The inventors of the present invention have discovered that the use of the surface-treated filler material product of the present invention in a biodegradable breathable film can result in a finely and uniformly filled breathable film material that provides low noise and adequate mechanical properties. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the specific properties of the surface-treated filler material product according to the present invention make it particularly suitable for use in biodegradable breathable films, thereby achieving a uniform distribution of filler throughout the film, thereby achieving uniformly distributed barrier and vapor transmission properties throughout the film.

[0293] The masterbatch can be used directly in process step b) or can be mixed with one or more biodegradable polymers before process step b). The masterbatch can also be mixed with one or more of the above-mentioned additives. According to a preferred embodiment, the masterbatch is used directly in process step b).

[0294] Process step b) can be carried out by any known technique for producing polymer films. Examples of suitable film extrusion techniques are blown film extrusion or cast film extrusion, preferably cast film extrusion.

[0295] In method step c), the film obtained in method step b) is stretched in at least one direction. During the stretching step, polymer may be released from the surface of the surface-treated filler material product, thereby forming pores in the breathable film. Stretching step c) can be performed by any means known in the art.

[0296] The film can be stretched in at least one uniaxial direction at a temperature between room temperature and the softening point of the at least one biodegradable polymer by known techniques such as rolling, interdigitating, tentering, ring rolling, or meshing gear stretching.

[0297] According to one embodiment, in method step c), the film obtained in step b) is stretched by machine direction orientation (MDO). As is known to those skilled in the art, the MDO process consists of a series of stages, such as preheating, orientation, annealing, and cooling. Typically, the film enters the MDO process and is preheated to the desired orientation temperature. During the orientation stage, the film is sandwiched between slow and fast rotating rollers. Depending on the desired film properties, the film may be quenched or annealed after orientation. In the final stage, the film may be cooled to near ambient temperature.

[0298] Alternatively, the stretching step c) is performed by ring rolling. This method typically involves running the film between grooved or toothed rollers. As the film passes between the rollers, the grooves or teeth on the rollers intermesh and stretch the film. Incremental stretching can stretch the film in many small increments evenly spaced across the film. The depth of engagement of the intermeshing teeth can control the degree of stretching. Ring rolling may also be referred to as incremental stretching. Suitable methods for ring rolling are described, for example, in US Pat. No. 4,107,364, US Pat. No. 4,834,741, US Pat. No. 5,143,679, US Pat. No. 5,156,793, or US Pat. No. 5,167,897, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0299] The stretching can be carried out in one step or in several steps. According to one embodiment, process step c) is carried out 1 to 10 times.

[0300] The stretch ratio determines the film breakage under high stretching and the air permeability and water vapor transmission rate of the obtained film, and it is desirable to avoid such a stretch ratio that is too high or too low. According to one embodiment, in method step c), the film obtained in step b) is stretched in at least one direction to a stretch ratio of 1.2 to 6 times, more preferably 1.2 to 4 times.

[0301] According to one embodiment of step c) of the method of the present invention, the film obtained in step b) is stretched in two directions. If biaxial stretching is performed, for example, stretching in a first direction can be applied in the machine direction or in a direction perpendicular thereto, and then stretching in a second direction can be applied at right angles to the first direction. Alternatively, biaxial stretching can be performed simultaneously in the machine direction and in the direction perpendicular thereto.

[0302] According to one embodiment, process step c) is carried out at a temperature of about 30-160°C, preferably 40-130°C, more preferably 50-80°C and most preferably 50-70°C.

[0303] After stretching, if necessary, heat setting treatment can be performed to stabilize the structure of the breathable membrane. The heat setting treatment can be, for example, a heat setting treatment performed at a temperature from the softening point of the polymer to a temperature lower than about the melting point of the polymer for 0.1-100 seconds.

[0304] The inventors of the present invention have found that the biodegradable breathable film according to the present invention provides low noise while maintaining good breathability and mechanical properties. The breathable film of the present invention may be particularly suitable for use in hygiene products such as baby diapers, adult incontinence products or wound dressings.

[0305] The breathable membrane according to the present invention can be used in many different applications. According to one embodiment, the breathable membrane is used in sanitary applications, medical applications, healthcare applications, filter materials, geotextile products, agricultural applications, horticultural applications, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household applications, industrial applications, packaging applications, building applications or construction.

[0306] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article comprising a breathable film according to the present invention, wherein the article is selected from sanitary products, medical products, healthcare products, filtration products, geotextile products, agricultural products, horticultural products, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household products, industrial products, packaging products, building products or construction products.

[0307] Preferably, the hygiene product is selected from absorbent hygiene products such as baby diapers or nappies, feminine hygiene products, adult incontinence products, depilatory tapes, bandages and wound dressings, disposable bath and face towels, disposable slippers and footwear, top sheets or cover materials, consumer face masks, leg cuffs, acquisition / distribution layers, core wraps, back panels, stretch ears, landing zones, dust barriers and fastening systems; and tissues such as wet wipes, skin care wipes, baby wipes, facial wipes, cleaning wipes, hand and body wipes, wet towelettes, personal hygiene wipes, feminine hygiene napkins, antibacterial wipes and medicated wipes.

[0308] Preferably, the medical and healthcare product is selected from the group consisting of medical products that can be sterilized, medical packaging, caps such as disposable surgical caps, anti-spreading gowns, surgical gowns, surgical masks and face shields, surgical scrubs, surgical covers, surgical drapes, gowns, wraps, sponges, dressings, tissues, bed linens, contamination control gowns, examination gowns, lab gowns, isolation gowns, transdermal drug delivery, shrouds, pads, procedure packs, thermal bags, ostomy bag liners, fixation straps, incubator pads, sterilization packs (CSR packs), wound care, hot / cold bags, and drug delivery systems such as patches.

[0309] Preferably, the clothing, footwear and luggage products are selected from the group consisting of linings such as fronts of coats, collars, welts, belts, lapels, etc., disposable underwear, shoe components such as shoe hole reinforcements, sports shoe and sandal reinforcements and shoe insole linings, bag components, adhesives, compositions and (laundry) labels.

[0310] Preferably, the packaging product is selected from liners such as desiccant packaging, adsorbent packaging, gift boxes, file boxes, non-woven bags, book covers, mailing envelopes, express envelopes, express bags, etc.

[0311] Preferably, the building and construction product is selected from the group consisting of house carpets, asphalt coverings, road and railway subgrades, golf and tennis courts, wall linings, acoustic wall coverings, roofing and tile backings, soil stabilizers and road linings, foundation stabilizers, erosion control, canal construction, drainage systems, geomembrane protection, frost protection, agricultural mulches, pond and channel waterproofing, sand infiltration barriers for drainage tiles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0312] The scope and benefits of the present invention will be better understood based on the following examples which are intended to illustrate certain embodiments of the invention and are not limiting.

[0313] Example

[0314] 1. Measurement methods and materials

[0315] Hereinafter, the measurement methods and materials used in the examples are described.

[0316] Particle size

[0317] The particle size distribution of the untreated, ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material was measured using a Sedigraph 5120 from Micromeritics, Inc., USA. The method and instrument are known to those skilled in the art and are commonly used to determine the particle size of fillers and pigments. The measurements were performed in an aqueous solution containing 0.1% by weight of Na₄P₂O₇. The sample was dispersed using a high-speed stirrer and ultrasound.

[0318] Specific surface area (BET)

[0319] The specific surface area was measured by the BET method according to ISO 9277: 2010 on a Micromeritics ASAP 2460 instrument from Micromeritics using nitrogen as the adsorption gas. Prior to the measurement, the samples were pretreated in vacuum (10-5 bar) by heating at 150°C for 60 minutes.

[0320] Amount of surface treatment layer

[0321] The amount of the treatment layer on the calcium carbonate-containing material is theoretically calculated by the BET value of the untreated calcium carbonate-containing material and the amount of the one or more compounds for surface treatment. Assume that 100% of the one or more compounds are present on the surface of the calcium carbonate-containing material as the surface treatment layer.

[0322] Ash content

[0323] The ash content of the masterbatch in [%] is determined by incineration of the sample in an incineration crucible placed in an incineration furnace at 570° C. for 2 hours. The ash content is measured as the total amount of remaining inorganic residues.

[0324] Melt flow rate

[0325] Melt flow rate (MFR) is measured on an Instron CEAST melt flow modular online instrument. The instrument and measurement method are known to those skilled in the art. Melt flow rate is measured according to DIN EN ISO 1133-1:2011 using Procedure A. The samples are pre-dried at 70°C for 4 hours and then measured immediately.

[0326] Breaking force

[0327] The breaking force was determined according to ISO 527-3. The film sample width was 15 mm and the test length was 5 cm.

[0328] Maximum elongation at break

[0329] The elongation at break was determined according to ISO 527-3. The film sample width was 15 mm and the test length was 5 cm.

[0330] Tensile E-modulus (elastic modulus)

[0331] The tensile E-modulus is determined according to ISO 527-3. The film sample width is 15 mm and the test length is 5 cm. The E-modulus corresponds to the inclination of the tensile test curve between the 0.02% and 2% elongation points.

[0332] Similarly, the sheet's E-modulus is measured from a sample in the machine direction. Tensile E-modulus is determined according to ISO 527-3. The sheet sample has a width of 15 mm and a test length of 5 cm. The E-modulus corresponds to the angle of inclination of the tensile test curve between the 0.02% and 2% elongation points.

[0333] Acoustic evaluation of membranes

[0334] From each film sample, a large sample of 10 cm x 30 cm (long side in the machine direction) was prepared by cutting. A laboratory technician held two 10 cm long ends of the film and pushed his hands together so that they touched each other, then pushed his hands back again to fold and unfold the film. This folding and unfolding was performed every 2 seconds. Another blindfolded laboratory technician sat on a chair 1 meter away from the film, facing the film. The noise generated by the film sample was then rated on a scale of 10 (very unpleasant) to 1 (not noticeable).

[0335] Membrane noise level

[0336] From each film sample, prepare the large sample of 14.5cm x 14.5cm by cutting.Film is placed on the stainless steel cylinder of high 10cm, outer diameter 7.5cm, inner diameter 4.8cm.The center of film is placed on the center of cylinder.This cylinder is installed in Zwick material testing machine Z020.The 7.7cm long steel pin of diameter 2.3cm with the circular end of 2.3cm diameter is installed on the movable upper frame of 12cm above cylinder on central axis.Microphone (Norsonic Nor150, resolution: 0.125 second, time weighting: fast) is horizontally placed at the distance of 9cm from the top base center of cylinder.The upper frame starts to move downwards with the pin at a constant speed of 400mm / min, so that the pin pushes the film sample into this cylinder.By doing this, film is deformed and produces noise.From the time when the pin contacts the film sample until film is pushed into cylinder 7cm, noise is measured by microphone. The energy average is determined over this time period, and background noise, such as that caused by the Zwick tester, air conditions, and ventilation, is subtracted. The background noise is measured without a film sample. Each sample is measured five times, and the energy average is calculated. This value is referred to as the noise level of the film, given in dBA.

[0337] Water vapor transmission rate (WVTR)

[0338] The WVTR value of the breathable film was measured using a Lyssy L80-5000 (PBI Dansensor A / S, Denmark) measuring device according to ASTM E398.

[0339] Hydrostatic pressure test (water column)

[0340] Hydrostatic pressure testing was performed according to procedures equivalent to AATCC Test Method 127-2013, WSP 80.6, and ISO 811. Membrane samples were installed (test area = 10 cm 2) to form a lid on the test head reservoir. The membrane sample is placed under standardized water pressure, increasing at a constant rate, until leakage occurs on the outer surface of the membrane or water burst occurs due to membrane rupture (pressure rate gradient = 100 mbar / min). When three separate areas of the membrane sample show signs of leakage or burst, the water pressure is measured as the hydrostatic head height. The head height results are recorded in centimeters or millibars of water pressure on the sample. The higher the value, the greater the resistance to water penetration. The hydrostatic pressure measurements were performed using a TEXTEST FX-3000 hydrostatic head tester (Textest AG, Switzerland).

[0341] Moisture content

[0342] The residual moisture content is determined according to the Coulometric Karl Fischer measurement, in which the filler material is heated to 220° C. and the water content released in the form of vapor and separated using a nitrogen flow (100 ml / min) is determined in a Coulometric Karl Fischer apparatus.

[0343] Moisture absorption sensitivity

[0344] The term "water uptake sensitivity" within the meaning of the present invention refers to the amount of water adsorbed on the surface of a mineral filler and is determined gravimetrically in mg water / g dry treated mineral filler product after exposure to an atmosphere of 10% relative humidity at a temperature of +23°C (±2°C) until equilibrium is reached. The humidity is then increased to 85% relative humidity until the sample reaches equilibrium. The difference in weight is defined as the water uptake. The instrument used is a Gintronic Gravitest 6300.

[0345] 2 Materials

[0346] CC1 (present invention): natural ground calcium carbonate, commercially available from Omya International AG, Switzerland (d 50 :1.7μm;d 98 :6 μm, content of particles <0.5 μm = 12%), surface treated with 0.7% by weight of alkenylsuccinic anhydride (CAS [68784-12-3], concentration >93%), based on the total weight of the ground calcium carbonate. BET: 3.4 g / m 2 , residual moisture content: 0.09% by weight, moisture absorption: 0.58 mg / g.

[0347] CC2 (present invention): natural ground calcium carbonate, commercially available from Omya International AG, Switzerland (d 50 :0.8μm;d98 :3 μm, content of particles <0.5 μm = 35%), alkenyl succinic anhydride (CAS [68784-12-3], concentration >93%), based on the total weight of the natural ground calcium carbonate. BET: 8.5 m 2 / g, residual moisture content: 0.15% by weight, moisture absorption: 0.08 mg / g.

[0348] CC3 (present invention): natural ground calcium carbonate, commercially available from Omya International AG, Switzerland (d 50 :1.7μm;d 98 :6 μm, content of particles <0.5 μm = 12%), surface treated with 1.0 wt% stearic acid (commercially available from Sigma-Aldrich, Croda) based on the total weight of the natural ground calcium carbonate. BET: 3.4 m 2 / g, residual moisture content: 0.09% by weight, moisture absorption: 0.58 mg / g.

[0349] P1: PLA NatureWorks Ingeo 4043D (MFR: 6g / 10min (190℃, 2.16kg), density: 1.24g / cm 3 , according to the technical data sheet), D isomer content is 3.5% by weight, commercially available from NatureWorks, USA

[0350] P2: PBAT BASF ecoflex F Blend C1200 (MVR: 2.5-4.5ml / 10min (190℃, 2.16kg); MFR: 2.7-4.9g / 10min (190℃, 2.16kg), density: 1.25-1.27g / cm 3 , according to the technical data sheet), commercially available from BASF SE, Germany.

[0351] 3 Examples

[0352] Example 1 - Preparation of Compound (CO)

[0353] Formulations containing 43% by weight of calcium carbonate CC1 or CC2 were continuously compounded on a Maris™ 20 Hi-Tech laboratory twin-screw extruder equipped with an Econ EW10 underwater pelletizer. The polymers were dried in a desiccant-based column laboratory dryer from Motan GmbH at 70°C for 6 hours. The polymer resin was fed into the main hopper via a loss-in-weight feeder, while two additional loss-in-weight feeders fed two side feeders that filled the extruder barrel with carbonate. The carbonate split was 50:50. The screw speed was 800 rpm. The input zone was 15°C. The temperature of the first barrel was 170°C, while the temperature of the subsequent barrels and the die was 180°C. The die plate had two holes, the knife speed was 600 rpm, and the cooling water temperature was 34°C. After 2 hours at ambient temperature, the compounded pellets of the polymer composition were placed in sealed plastic bags. The composition and filler content of the prepared compounds are listed in Table 1 below. The exact filler content is determined by the ash content. The results are listed in Table 1.

[0354] The tensile E-modulus of biodegradable polymers or polymer blends is measured on (unstretched) cast sheets according to ISO 527-3. Cast sheets were prepared using a single screw extruder with a diameter of 30 mm on a Collin Laboratory Film Line (Dr. Collin GmbH, Germany). If the polymer blend contains more than one biodegradable polymer, the polymers are pre-mixed using an Engelsman AG tumble mixer. The biodegradable polymers are then fed into the extruder hopper. The sheets are extruded using a 300 mm wide slot die and a take-up system with temperature-controlled rollers. The slot die has an opening of 230 μm. The distance from the slot die to the gap between the first two cooling rollers is 20 mm. The gap between these rollers is 200 μm. The rollers are kept at a suitable low temperature to cool the melt and form the sheet. In the example, it was adjusted to 60°C. The screw speed was adjusted to fill the gap without creating melt inventory. A low-orientation sheet 200 μm thick was thus extruded. The extruder and die temperatures remained consistent throughout the experiment. The die and barrel temperatures were set at 190°C; other polymers may require different temperatures based on supplier recommendations. The line speed was 0.5 m / min. The tensile E-modulus was measured on samples in the machine direction. Sheet tensile E-modulus was determined according to ISO 527-3. Sheet samples had a width of 15 mm and a test length of 5 cm. The E-modulus corresponds to the angle of inclination of the tensile test curve between the 0.02% and 2% elongation points. The results are listed in Table 1.

[0355] Table 1: Composition and properties of the prepared compounds.

[0356]

[0357] The results shown in Table 1 demonstrate that compounds of good quality can be produced.

[0358] Example 2 - Preparation of Breathable Film

[0359] The breathable membranes were produced using a pilot extrusion cast film line with an integrated MDO-II device (Dr. Collin GmbH, Germany) with extruder temperatures set to: barrel 175°C-185°C-200°C-200°C-200°C and die 210°C. The extruder speed was 35 rpm. Stretched breathable membranes were prepared using the compounds of Example 1. All compounds were dried again at 70°C for 6 hours. The initial film speed of the casting roll was 5 m / min. The casting roll temperature was 45°C. At each of the two stretching gap units, the speed difference (%) between the two rolls was increased until a uniformly stretched, uniform film was obtained. The stretching settings are shown in Table 2. The preheating roll temperature was 55°C, the slow and fast stretching roll temperatures were 70°C, and the annealing roll temperature was 50°C.

[0360] The film quality of the obtained breathable film was visually inspected, and the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and hydrostatic pressure of the film were tested. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0361] Table 2: Composition and properties of the prepared breathable membranes.

[0362]

[0363] *nm=Not measured

[0364] The results shown in Table 2 confirm the good quality and film properties of the breathable film. Samples 1, 2, 6, and 7 produced a rather unpleasant noise when the film was folded. This is an important criterion in applications such as backsheets for baby diapers, as this noise is generated every time the baby moves. Therefore, these samples would not be accepted by consumers in such applications. Samples 3, 4, and 5 demonstrate that by increasing the content of polymer P2, the noise level can be significantly reduced to a much more pleasant level, allowing for use in diaper backsheets and other noise-sensitive applications.

[0365] The mechanical properties of the obtained breathable films such as force at break, E-modulus and elongation at break (in machine and transverse directions) are summarized in Tables 3 and 4. The results demonstrate that the mechanical properties are at a good level for most hygiene film applications.

[0366] Table 3: Composition and mechanical properties of the prepared breathable membranes.

[0367] Film samples were taken in the machine direction (MD).

[0368]

[0369] Table 4: Composition and mechanical properties of the prepared breathable membranes.

[0370] Film samples taken in the cross direction (CD).

[0371]

Claims

1. A breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having - Weight median particle size d 50 0.1µm-7µm, - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15µm, - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and - a residual total moisture content of 0.05-0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of a succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, and / or ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus lower than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3, and The at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid, and the weight ratio of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) to polylactic acid is 10:1 to 2:

1.

2. The breathable film according to claim 1, wherein the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt is at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4-C24 and / or its salt.

3. The breathable film of claim 1 , wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is a wet-ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

4. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the breathable film comprises the surface treated filler material product in an amount of 40 to 65% by weight based on the total weight of the breathable film.

5. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the breathable film comprises the surface-treated filler material product in an amount of 40 to 60% by weight based on the total weight of the breathable film.

6. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the breathable film comprises the surface-treated filler material product in an amount of 40% to 55% by weight based on the total weight of the breathable film.

7. The breathable membrane of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is natural ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, surface treated calcium carbonate, or a mixture thereof.

8. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is a modified calcium carbonate.

9. The breathable film of claim 7, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material is natural ground calcium carbonate.

10. The breathable membrane of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a) Weight median particle size d 50 0.25µm-5µm, and / or b) Top cut particle size d 98 is ≤12.5µm, and / or c) fineness such that at least 5% by weight of all particles have a particle size of < 0.5 µm, and / or d) Specific surface area (BET) measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277, 0.5-50 m 2 / g.

11. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a) Weight median particle size d 50 0.5µm-4µm.

12. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a) Weight median particle size d 50 0.6µm-2µm.

13. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has b) Top cut particle size d 98 ≤10µm.

14. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has b) Top cut particle size d 98 ≤7.5µm.

15. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has b) Top cut particle size d 98 ≤6.5µm.

16. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has c) fineness such that at least 7% by weight of all particles have a particle size of < 0.5 µm.

17. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has c) fineness such that at least 9% by weight of all particles have a particle size of < 0.5 µm.

18. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has c) fineness such that at least 11% by weight of all particles have a particle size of < 0.5 µm.

19. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has d) Specific surface area (BET) measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277, 0.5-35 m 2 / g.

20. The breathable film of claim 10, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has d) Specific surface area (BET) measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277, 0.5-15 m 2 / g.

21. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.2 wt. %, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

22. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.15 wt. %, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

23. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material has a residual total moisture content of 0.05 to 0.12 wt. %, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material.

24. The breathable membrane of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprises at least one mono-substituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the mono-substituted succinic anhydride consisting of succinic anhydride mono-substituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent being C4 to C18.

25. The breathable film of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the surface treated filler material product has a moisture uptake of 0.1-1 mg / g at a temperature of 23°C ± 2°C.

26. The breathable film of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the surface treated filler material product has a moisture uptake of 0.2-0.9 mg / g at a temperature of 23°C ± 2°C.

27. The breathable film of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the surface treated filler material product has a moisture uptake of 0.2-0.8 mg / g at a temperature of 23°C ± 2°C.

28. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the film has a basis weight of 8 to 40 g / m 2 .

29. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the film has a basis weight of 15 to 38 g / m 2 .

30. The breathable film of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the film has a basis weight of 20 to 36 g / m 2 .

31. A method for producing a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight of a surface-treated filler material product, based on the total weight of the breathable film, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a composition comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35-65% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a surface-treated filler material product, wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus of less than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3, and b) forming a film from the composition of step a), and c) stretching the film obtained in step b) in at least one direction, The surface treated filler material product comprises A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having - Weight median particle size d 50 0.1µm-7µm, - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15µm, - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and - a residual total moisture content of 0.05-0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of a succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, and / or ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and The at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid, and the weight ratio of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) to polylactic acid is 10:1 to 2:

1.

32. The process of claim 31, wherein the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt is at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4 to C24 and / or its salt.

33. The method of claim 31 or 32, wherein the composition provided in step a) is a masterbatch or a compound obtained by mixing the at least one biodegradable polymer and the surface treated filler material product to form a mixture, and continuously granulating the mixture obtained.

34. Use of a surface-treated filler material product as a filler in a breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer, wherein the breathable film comprises the surface-treated filler material product in an amount of 35-65% by weight based on the total weight of the breathable film, wherein the surface-treated filler material product comprises A) at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material having - Weight median particle size d 50 0.1µm-7µm, - Top cut particle size d 98 ≤15µm, - Specific surface area (BET) of 0.5-150 m², measured using nitrogen and the BET method according to ISO 9277 2 / g, and - a residual total moisture content of 0.05-0.3% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, and B) a treatment layer on the surface of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material comprising i. at least one monosubstituted succinic anhydride and / or a salt thereof, the monosubstituted succinic anhydride consisting of a succinic anhydride monosubstituted with a group selected from linear, branched, aliphatic and cyclic groups having a total amount of carbon atoms in the substituent of C2 to C30, and / or ii. at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt, wherein the surface treated filler material product comprises the treatment layer in an amount of 0.1-3% by weight based on the total dry weight of the at least one ground calcium carbonate-containing filler material, wherein the at least one biodegradable polymer has a tensile E-modulus lower than 2100 MPa measured according to ISO 527-3, and The at least one biodegradable polymer is a blend of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid, and the weight ratio of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) to polylactic acid is 10:1 to 2:

1.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the at least one saturated or unsaturated aliphatic linear or branched carboxylic acid and / or its salt is at least one aliphatic carboxylic acid having a total carbon atom content of C4 to C24 and / or its salt.

36. An article comprising a breathable film according to any one of claims 1 to 30, the breathable film comprising at least one biodegradable polymer and 35 to 65% by weight, based on the total weight of the breathable film, of a surface treated filler material product, wherein the article is selected from the group consisting of hygiene products, medical products, healthcare products, filtration products, geotextile products, agricultural products, horticultural products, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household products, industrial products, packaging products, building products and construction products.

37. Use of the breathable membrane according to any one of claims 1 to 30 in hygiene applications, medical applications for non-diagnostic and non-therapeutic purposes, healthcare applications, filter materials, geotextile products, agricultural applications, horticultural applications, clothing, footwear products, luggage products, household applications, industrial applications, packaging applications, building applications or construction.

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