Flat composite with grooves for dimensionally stable food containers with steep edges extending at an angle to each other

Abstract

The present invention relates to a planar composite material (100) comprising a. a carrier layer (1404), b. a barrier layer (1407), and c. an inner polymer layer (1408); wherein the planar composite material (100) includes at least a first plurality of grooves (101) arranged and configured such that at least a portion of the container wall (1101) of a sealed container (1100) can be obtained by folding and joining portions along the grooves; wherein the sealed container (1100) includes an upright base (1103) and an end portion (1102); wherein the end portion (1102) 102) includes at least three end side surfaces (209) that are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (201) such that the sealed container (1100) gradually tapers in at least a segment of the end portion (1102); wherein the periphery of each end side surface (209) is formed by a plurality of side edges; wherein each of the plurality of side edges includes a pair of steep edges (1104); wherein each pair of steep edges (1104) is formed along a pair of grooves (210); wherein the grooves of each pair of grooves (210) are at an angle (211) relative to each other in the range of 40 to 60°. The present invention further relates to manufacturing methods (1500, 1600, 1700) and corresponding process products; container precursors (400) and sealed containers (1100), each comprising the planar composite material (100) or a blank (200) thereof; additional sealed containers (1100); and use of the planar composite material (100) or the container precursor (400).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a planar composite material comprising a stack of layers as a layer sequence in a direction from the outer side to the inner side of the planar composite material.

[0002] a. Carrier layer,

[0003] b. Barrier layer, and

[0004] c. Inner polymer layer;

[0005] The planar composite material includes at least a first plurality of grooves arranged and configured such that at least a portion of the container wall of a sealed container can be obtained by folding and joining portions of the planar composite material along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves; the sealed container includes an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the sealed container; the end portion includes at least three end side surfaces formed of the planar composite material, the end side surfaces being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction such that the sealed container tapers at least segmentally in the end portion; the periphery of each end side surface is formed by a plurality of side edges of the end portion; each of the plurality of side edges includes a pair of steep edges opposite to each other in a circumferential direction of the sealed container perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; each pair of steep edges is formed along a pair of grooves of the first plurality of grooves; the grooves of each pair of grooves are located in a planar extension plane of the planar composite material and extend relative to each other in this planar extension plane at an angle in the range of 40 to 60°. The present invention further relates to methods for producing planar composite materials, producing container precursors and producing sealed containers, and corresponding process products; container precursors and sealed containers, each comprising the planar composite material or a blank thereof; additional sealed containers; and uses of the planar composite material or the container precursor.

[0006] For some time, food, whether for human consumption or animal feed products, has been preserved by storing it in cans or jars sealed with lids. In this case, shelf life can be extended by first sterilizing the food and container (in this case, jar or bottle) separately and very thoroughly in each case, then introducing the food into the container and sealing it. However, these methods of extending food shelf life, which have been tried and tested over a long period, have a number of drawbacks, such as the need for subsequent sterilization. Cans and bottles, due to their essentially cylindrical shape, present the disadvantage of not being able to achieve very dense and space-saving storage. Furthermore, cans and bottles have a considerable inherent weight, leading to increased energy consumption during transportation. In addition, the production of glass, tinplate, or aluminum, even when the raw materials used for this purpose are recycled, requires a considerable amount of energy. In the case of bottles, an exacerbating factor is the increased transportation costs. Bottles are typically prefabricated in glass factories and then must be transported to the food distribution site using considerable transport volume. Furthermore, bottles and cans can only be opened with considerable force or with the aid of tools and therefore in a rather laborious manner. In the case of cans, there is a high risk of injury from sharp edges that may appear when opening. In the case of bottles, a recurring issue is that broken glass may enter the food during filling or opening of a filled bottle, which in the worst case could cause internal injury to the edible food. Furthermore, both cans and bottles must be labeled to identify and promote the food contents. Information and promotional messages cannot be directly printed on bottles and cans. Therefore, in addition to the actual printing, a substrate, paper or suitable film, is required for this purpose, as well as a means of fixing, adhesive, or sealant.

[0007] Other packaging systems are known from the prior art for the long-term storage of food with minimal damage. These are containers made of planar or sheet-like composite materials, often referred to as laminates. Such laminates typically consist of a thermoplastic layer, a carrier layer (usually made of cardboard or paper, which imparts dimensional stability to the container), an adhesion promoter layer, a barrier layer, and another plastic layer. Because the carrier layer imparts dimensional stability to containers made of laminates, these containers are considered a further development of the aforementioned bottles and jars compared to film bags and pouches.

[0008] Although food containers made of laminated materials can be produced and filled in the same machine and thus in a single production run, there is still a transportation effort required to supply the filled containers to the retail industry. To make this transportation as efficient as possible, it is desirable to be able to stack as many containers as possible in a single package, i.e., using as little reinforcing transport material as possible. This stackability is limited by the compressive stability of the containers, i.e., by the maximum weight that can be applied to the containers without compressing them and compressing them to break their mechanical integrity. In the prior art, this limitation typically means that existing transport volumes cannot be utilized efficiently.

[0009] Overall, one object of the present invention is to overcome at least partially the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable food container made of laminated material, which, in particular, through good stacking behavior, enables the most efficient use of transport volume when supplying such a food container.

[0011] Furthermore, one object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable food container made of laminated material that can be mass-produced in a filling machine with minimal production interruptions.

[0012] A further object of the present invention is to provide a dimensionally stable food container made of laminated material, characterized by an improved shelf life.

[0013] According to another object of the invention, one of the aforementioned advantageous food containers is particularly suitable for stationary household use, especially due to its relatively large capacity. According to another object of the invention, one of the aforementioned advantageous food containers is particularly suitable for mobile use, especially due to its good grip stiffness.

[0014] According to a further objective of the invention, one of the aforementioned advantageous food containers is further characterized by good standing stability of the individual container.

[0015] The independent claims provide contributions to at least partially achieving at least one, preferably more than one, of the aforementioned objectives. The dependent claims provide preferred embodiments that contribute to at least partially achieving at least one objective.

[0016] A first embodiment of the present invention is a planar composite comprising superimposed layers as a sequence of layers in a direction from the outside to the inside of the planar composite.

[0017] a. Carrier layer

[0018] b. Barrier layer, and

[0019] c. Inner polymer layer;

[0020] The planar composite material comprises at least a first plurality of grooves arranged and configured such that at least a portion of the container wall of a closed container can be obtained by folding the planar composite material along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves and joining portions of the planar composite material; the closed container comprises a standing base and a head portion opposite to the standing base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the closed container; the head portion comprises at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4 head side surfaces formed of preferred planes of the planar composite material, the head side surfaces being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction so that the closed container is at least segmented in the head portion. The sections taper gradually; the perimeter of each end face is formed by a plurality of side edges of the end portion; each of the plurality of side edges includes a pair of steep edges opposite each other in the circumferential direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sealed container; each pair of steep edges is formed along a pair of grooves of the first plurality of grooves; and the grooves of each pair of grooves are located on the plane of planar extension of the planar composite material. In the extension plane, and in this plane extension plane, the planes extend relative to each other at an angle ranging from 40 to 60°, more preferably 41 to 59°, more preferably 42 to 58°, more preferably 43 to 57°, more preferably 44 to 57°, more preferably 45 to 57°, more preferably 46 to 57°, more preferably 47 to 57°, more preferably 48 to 57°, more preferably 49 to 57°, more preferably 50 to 57°, more preferably 51 to 57°, more preferably 52 to 57°, more preferably 53 to 56°, more preferably 53.5 to 55.5°, and even more preferably 54.0 to 55.0°.

[0021] Alternatively, preferably, the grooves of each pair of grooves are located in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material and extend relative to each other in this planar extension plane at an angle ranging from 43 to 56°, more preferably 43 to 55°, more preferably 43 to 54°, more preferably 43 to 53°, more preferably 43 to 52°, more preferably 43 to 51°, more preferably 43 to 50°, more preferably 43 to 49°, more preferably 43 to 48°, more preferably 43 to 47°, more preferably 44.0 to 46.0°, and even more preferably 44.5 to 45.5°.

[0022] Preferably, each end facet is substantially trapezoidal. “Substantially” here means that it is not possible to cause a deviation from the basic geometry of the trapezoid. In particular, one base of the trapezoid may be curved.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, at least a portion of the plurality of sides, preferably each, includes a base edge that curves convex toward an upright base relative to its periphery from the end face formed by these sides. This preferred embodiment is a second embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Preferably, each bottom edge is curved in an arcuate convex shape relative to its periphery, and more preferably in a circular arcuate convex shape.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the end side surfaces together substantially form the lateral surface of a regular truncated pyramid. This preferred embodiment is a third embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the first or second embodiment of the invention.

[0026] "Basic" here means that it is possible not to cause a deviation from the basic geometry of the truncated pyramid. Specifically, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid can be curved. Preferably, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid are convex relative to the adjacent end face surfaces, more preferably arcuate convex curvature, and more preferably circular arcuate convex curvature. Here, each end face surface preferably consists of a pair of steep edges, an edge of the top face of the truncated pyramid, and an edge of the base face of the truncated pyramid. Alternatively or additionally preferred, the angle of the grooves in each pair of grooves is the angle between the steep edges of each side face of the supplementary pyramid at the vertex of that supplementary pyramid.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the truncated pyramid has a polygonal base. This preferred embodiment is the fourth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the third embodiment of the invention.

[0028] The preferred polygon is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably, the end faces of the end portions have the same number of corners as the polygon.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the planar composite material is a blank for manufacturing a single sealed container. This preferred embodiment is a fifth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0030] Alternatively or preferably, the planar composite material includes at least one additional plurality of grooves, preferably at least 10 additional plurality of grooves, more preferably at least 50 additional plurality of grooves, each of the additional plurality of grooves having the characteristics of the first plurality of grooves described in the first embodiment. In particular, each set of additional plurality of grooves is arranged and configured such that at least a portion of the container wall of another sealed container can be obtained by folding the planar composite material along the grooves of the additional plurality of grooves and engaging portions of the planar composite material.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the grooves of the at least first plurality of grooves at least partially comprise linear depressions on the outer surface of the planar composite material. This preferred embodiment is a sixth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0032] A preferred linear recess is a linear material displacement. Preferably, the recesses of the at least first plurality of grooves are formed as linear recesses on the outer side of the planar composite material. More preferably, the recesses of the at least first plurality of grooves have bulges on the inner side of the planar composite material.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the planar composite material further includes an outer polymer layer; wherein the outer polymer layer is superimposed on the carrier layer on the side facing away from the barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the seventh embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the outer polymer layer is adjacent to the carrier layer. The outer polymer layer preferably contains at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight of a polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene or both, in each case based on the weight of the outer polymer layer.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the outer polymer layer comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight of one or more LDPEs, each based on the weight of the outer polymer layer. This preferred embodiment is the eighth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the outer polymer layer is coated with color, preferably decoration, on the side of the outer polymer layer facing away from the carrier layer or on the side of the outer polymer layer facing the carrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the ninth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of the seventh or eighth embodiment of the invention.

[0037] In both of the above arrangements, color application is preferably adjacent to the outer polymer layer. Preferably, color application includes at least one colorant, more preferably at least two, more preferably at least three, more preferably at least four, even more preferably at least five, and most preferably at least six colorants. These colorants preferably each have a different color from each other. The preferred color application is printing color application.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the planar composite material includes an intermediate polymer layer between a carrier layer and a barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the tenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, each layer selected from an inner polymer layer, an intermediate polymer layer, and an outer polymer layer, or a combination of at least two of them, comprises one or more polyolefins, preferably one or more polyethylenes, and / or one or more polypropylenes. Preferably, the layer is composed of one or more of the aforementioned polymers. This preferred embodiment is the eleventh embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the characteristics of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0040] Preferably, each layer selected from an inner polymer layer, an intermediate polymer layer, and an outer polymer layer, or a combination of at least two of them, comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight of the respective layer, one or more polyolefins, preferably one or more polyethylenes, and / or one or more polypropylenes.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the carrier layer comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard, and paper, or a combination of at least two of them. Preferably, the carrier layer consists of the aforementioned materials. This preferred embodiment is the twelfth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0042] The terms "paperboard," "cardboard," and "paper" are used herein according to their definitions in standard DIN 6735:2010. Furthermore, cardboard is preferably a material having a combination of the properties of paper and paperboard. Additionally, cardboard preferably has a basis weight in the range of 150 to 600 g / m².

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the barrier layer comprises one selected from plastics, metals, and metal oxides, or a combination of at least two of them. Preferably, the barrier layer consists of these. This preferred embodiment is the thirteenth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the capacity of the sealed container is 100 to 2000 ml, preferably 100 to 1500 ml, more preferably 100 to 1200 ml, more preferably 100 to 1000 ml, more preferably 100 to 900 ml, more preferably 100 to 800 ml, more preferably 100 to 700 ml, more preferably 100 to 600 ml, more preferably 100 to 500 ml, more preferably 100 to 480 ml, more preferably 100 to 460 ml, more preferably 100 to 440 ml, more preferably 100 to 420 ml, more preferably 100 to 400 ml, more preferably 100 to 380 ml, more preferably 100 to 360 ml, more preferably 110 to 360 ml, more preferably 120 to 360 ml, more preferably 130 to 360 ml, more preferably 140 to 360 ml, more preferably 150 to 360 ml, more preferably 160 to 360 ml, and even more preferably 170 to 360 ml. Within the range of ml. This preferred embodiment is the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] More preferably, the capacity of the sealed container is in the range of 150 to 2000 ml, more preferably 200 to 2000 ml, more preferably 250 to 2000 ml, more preferably 300 to 2000 ml, more preferably 350 to 2000 ml, more preferably 400 to 2000 ml, more preferably 420 to 2000 ml, more preferably 440 to 2000 ml, more preferably 460 to 2000 ml, more preferably 480 to 2000 ml, more preferably 480 to 1800 ml, more preferably 480 to 1600 ml, more preferably 480 to 1400 ml, more preferably 480 to 1200 ml, most preferably 480 to 1150 ml, more preferably 480 to 1100 ml, and even more preferably 490 to 1100 ml.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment of the planar composite material, the first plurality of grooves comprises four longitudinal grooves, each longitudinal groove arranged and configured to obtain a longitudinal edge of the sealed container by folding along its respective longitudinal groove. Each longitudinal edge of the sealed container extends along the length of the sealed container from the upright base to an end portion. The sealed container, along its length between the upright base and the end portion, preferably has a square cross-section at least continuously in segments. The shortest of the four longitudinal grooves has a length l, wherein the ratio of the length l to the side length a of the square cross-section is in the range of 1.3 to 2.95, preferably 1.35 to 2.95, more preferably 1.38 to 2.8, and most preferably 1.39 to 2.8. This preferred embodiment is the fifteenth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any of the foregoing embodiments of the invention.

[0047] The length *l* is the height of the sealed container excluding its end portions. Preferably, the four longitudinal grooves have equal lengths. However, in principle, it is also possible, for example, that two longitudinal grooves are shorter than the other two. In this case, the length *l* represents the shorter longitudinal groove.

[0048] The sixteenth embodiment of the present invention is a method comprising the following method steps:

[0049] a) Provide a planar composite precursor containing a carrier layer; and

[0050] b) Introduce at least a first plurality of grooves into the planar composite precursor;

[0051] The grooves of the first plurality of grooves are introduced such that at least a portion of the container wall of the sealed container can be obtained by folding and joining portions of the planar composite material obtained from the planar composite material precursor along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves; wherein the sealed container includes an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the sealed container; wherein the end portion includes at least 3, preferably 4, preferably planar end side surfaces formed of the planar composite material, the end side surfaces being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction such that the sealed container tapers at least segmentally in the end portion; wherein the periphery of each end side surface is formed by a plurality of sides of the end portion; wherein each of the plurality of sides includes a portion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A pair of steep edges facing each other in the circumferential direction of the sealed container; wherein each pair of steep edges is formed along a pair of grooves of the first plurality of grooves; wherein the grooves of each pair of grooves are located in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material and extend relative to each other in this planar extension plane at an angle ranging from 40 to 60°, more preferably 41 to 59°, more preferably 42 to 58°, more preferably 43 to 57°, more preferably 44 to 57°, more preferably 45 to 57°, more preferably 46 to 57°, more preferably 47 to 57°, more preferably 48 to 57°, more preferably 49 to 57°, more preferably 50 to 57°, more preferably 51 to 57°, more preferably 52 to 57°, more preferably 53 to 56°, more preferably 53.5 to 55.5°, and even more preferably 54.0 to 55.0°.

[0052] Preferably, the carrier layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or more preferably, the first plurality of grooves are configured and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Preferably, the method is a method for producing a planar composite material, more preferably a method for producing a planar composite material. The preferred planar composite material configuration is used to manufacture at least one, preferably exactly one, food container. Alternatively or more preferably, the planar composite material is formed according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment of the above method, the method further includes the following steps:

[0054] c) Stacking the carrier layer and the barrier layer; and

[0055] d) On the side of the barrier layer opposite to the carrier layer, the barrier layer is superimposed with the inner polymer layer to obtain the planar composite material.

[0056] This preferred embodiment is the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, and it also preferably has the features of the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Preferably, the barrier layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the present invention. The overlay with the barrier layer is preferably in the form of lamination. Preferably, the inner polymer layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the present invention. The overlay with the inner polymer layer is preferably performed by extruding an inner polymer composition that can be used to obtain the inner polymer layer.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the method, between steps b) and c), an outer polymer layer is superimposed on the carrier layer side facing away from the barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the eighteenth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the seventeenth embodiment of the invention.

[0059] Preferably, the outer polymer layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the invention. The overlay of the outer polymer layer is preferably performed by extruding an outer polymer composition that can be used to obtain the outer polymer layer.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the method, an intermediate polymer layer is introduced between the carrier layer and the barrier layer in step c). This preferred embodiment is the nineteenth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the seventeenth or eighteenth embodiments of the invention.

[0061] Preferably, the intermediate polymer layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the invention. Preferably, the intermediate polymer layer is introduced by extruding an intermediate polymer composition that can be used to obtain the intermediate polymer layer. Preferably, the intermediate polymer composition acts as a laminating agent, particularly for bonding the carrier layer to the barrier layer.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the planar composite precursor in step a) comprises the following layers as a stack of layers in a direction from the outside of the planar composite precursor to the inside of the planar composite precursor.

[0063] A. Carrier layer,

[0064] B. Barrier layer, and

[0065] C. Inner polymer layer;

[0066] In step b), a planar composite material is obtained. This preferred embodiment is the twentieth embodiment of the present invention, and it also preferably has the features of the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Preferably, the carrier layer, barrier layer, or inner polymer layer, or any combination of at least two of the foregoing, is configured and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the present invention.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the planar composite precursor in step a) further comprises an outer polymer layer superimposed on the carrier layer on the outward-facing side. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-first embodiment of the invention, and preferably also has the features of the twenty-ninth embodiment of the invention.

[0069] Preferably, the outer polymer layer is configured and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the present invention.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the planar composite precursor in step a) further includes an intermediate polymer layer between the carrier layer and the barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-second embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of the twenty-first embodiment of the invention.

[0071] Preferably, the intermediate polymer layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the present invention.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the method further includes, after step a), separating the blank for producing a single hermetically sealed container from the planar composite precursor. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-third embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any one of the sixteenth to twenty-second embodiments of the invention.

[0073] Preferably, the separation is performed after step b) of the method. Alternatively or more preferably, the separation is performed by cutting or punching, or both.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment of the method, in step b), the introduction of the at least first plurality of grooves is carried out in the form of introducing at least a first plurality of line-shaped depressions on the carrier layer side of the planar composite material away from the barrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-fourth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any one of the sixteenth to twenty-third embodiments of the invention.

[0075] Preferably, this introduction is performed by contacting at least one grooving tool with the planar composite precursor on the carrier layer side of the planar composite material opposite to the barrier layer, and preferably simultaneously on the opposite side of the planar composite precursor. In this case, a preferred linear region of the planar composite precursor on the aforementioned opposite side is preferably received in a recess in the grooving tool. In doing so, it is preferable to press this region into the recess. Therefore, the linear recess is preferably obtained as a linear material displacement. The preferred grooving tool has a multi-part structure. Therefore, the grooving tool preferably includes a portion having a recess and another portion designed to press the planar composite precursor into the recess. Therefore, these two portions are preferably designed to engage with each other.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the planar composite precursor in step a) further includes color application superimposed on the outer polymer layer on the side opposite to the carrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-fifth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any one of the twenty-first to twenty-fourth embodiments of the invention.

[0077] Preferably, the color is applied in one of the embodiments of the planar composite material according to the invention, which is designed and arranged accordingly.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the planar composite precursor further includes color application superimposed on the carrier layer. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-sixth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any one of the sixteenth to twenty-fourth embodiments of the invention.

[0079] Preferably, the color application is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material of the invention. Preferably, the color application is superimposed on the carrier layer on the side facing away from the barrier layer. Preferably, the color application is adjacent to the carrier layer.

[0080] The twenty-seventh embodiment of the present invention is a planar composite material that can be obtained by means of any one of the sixteenth to twenty-sixth embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] This planar composite material is preferably formed like the planar composite material of the present invention according to one of its foregoing embodiments.

[0082] The twenty-eighth embodiment of the present invention is a container precursor comprising

[0083] - According to the present invention, a planar composite material according to one of the first to fifteenth or twenty-seventh embodiments of the present invention is preferred, or

[0084] - Blanks for this planar composite material used in the production of sealed containers.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment of the container precursor, the planar composite material or blank has at least two folds, preferably at least three folds, and more preferably at least four folds. This preferred embodiment is the twenty-ninth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the twenty-eighth embodiment of the invention.

[0086] The folds described above are preferably longitudinal folds.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment of the container precursor, the planar composite material or preform includes a first longitudinal margin and another longitudinal margin opposite to the first longitudinal margin in the circumferential direction; wherein the first longitudinal margin is joined to the other longitudinal margin to form a longitudinal seam of the container precursor. This preferred embodiment is the thirtieth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the twenty-eighth or twenty-ninth embodiment of the invention.

[0088] The thirty-first embodiment of the present invention is a sealed container comprising a container wall surrounding the interior of the container, said container wall being formed at least partially by:

[0089] - According to the present invention, a planar composite material according to one of the first to fifteenth or twenty-seventh embodiments of the present invention is preferred, or

[0090] - A blank of this planar composite material used to manufacture sealed containers.

[0091] Preferably, the sealed container according to the present invention is a food container.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, at least a portion of the container wall is obtained by folding the planar composite material or blank along the grooves of the at least first plurality of grooves and joining portions of the planar composite material. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-second embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the thirty-first embodiment of the invention.

[0093] A thirty-third embodiment of the present invention is a sealed container comprising a container wall surrounding the interior of the container, the container wall being at least partially formed of a planar composite material; wherein the planar composite material comprises layers as a stack of layers in a direction from the outer side to the inner side of the planar composite material:

[0094] a. Carrier layer,

[0095] b. Barrier layer, and

[0096] c. Inner polymer layer;

[0097] The sealed container includes an upright base and an end portion opposite to the upright base in a longitudinal direction extending along the length of the sealed container; the end portion includes at least 3, preferably 4, preferably planar end side surfaces formed of the planar composite material, the end side surfaces being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction such that the sealed container tapers at least segmentally in the end portion; wherein the periphery of each end side surface is formed by a plurality of sides of the end portion; wherein each of the plurality of sides includes a pair of steep edges opposite each other in a circumferential direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sealed container; wherein each pair of steep edges of each end side surface... The steep edges of the steep edges are located in the plane of their respective end-side surfaces, and in this plane of their respective end-side surfaces, they extend relative to each other at an angle ranging from 40 to 60°, preferably 41 to 59°, more preferably 42 to 58°, more preferably 43 to 57°, more preferably 44 to 57°, more preferably 45 to 57°, more preferably 46 to 57°, more preferably 47 to 57°, more preferably 48 to 57°, more preferably 49 to 57°, more preferably 50 to 57°, more preferably 51 to 57°, more preferably 52 to 57°, more preferably 53 to 56°, more preferably 53.5 to 55.5°, and even more preferably 54.0 to 55.0°.

[0098] Alternatively, preferably, the steep edges of each pair of steep edges of each end face are located in the plane of their respective end face surfaces and extend relative to each other in this plane of their respective end face surfaces at an angle ranging from 43 to 56°, more preferably 43 to 55°, more preferably 43 to 54°, more preferably 43 to 53°, more preferably 43 to 52°, more preferably 43 to 51°, more preferably 43 to 50°, more preferably 43 to 49°, more preferably 43 to 48°, more preferably 43 to 47°, more preferably 44.0 to 46.0°, and even more preferably 44.5 to 45.5°.

[0099] Preferably, the carrier layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the barrier layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the inner polymer layer is designed and arranged according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the planar composite material is designed according to one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the end portion of the sealed container is designed and arranged as described in one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the container wall of the sealed container is designed and arranged as described in one embodiment of the planar composite material according to the invention. Preferably, at least a portion of the container wall can be obtained by folding the planar composite material or its blank according to one embodiment of the invention along the grooves of the at least first plurality of grooves and joining portions of the planar composite material or blank.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned sealed container, each of the plurality of sides includes a bottom edge that is convex toward the upright base relative to its periphery and formed by the end side surface of the side. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-fourth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the thirty-third embodiment of the invention.

[0101] Preferably, each bottom edge is curved in an arcuate convex shape relative to the end side surface formed by its respective bottom edge around its periphery, more preferably in a circular arcuate convex shape.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the end side surfaces together substantially form the lateral surface of a truncated pyramid. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-fifth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the thirty-third or thirty-fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0103] "Basic" here means that it is possible not to cause a deviation from the basic geometry of the truncated pyramid. Specifically, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid can be curved. Preferably, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid are convex relative to the adjacent end face surfaces, more preferably arcuate convex curvature, and more preferably circular arcuate convex curvature. Here, each end face surface preferably consists of a pair of steep edges, an edge of the top face of the truncated pyramid, and an edge of the base face of the truncated pyramid. Alternatively or more preferably, the angle of the steep edges of each pair of steep edges is the angle between the steep edges of each lateral face of the supplementary pyramid at the vertex of that supplementary pyramid.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the truncated pyramid has a polygonal base. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-sixth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the thirty-fifth embodiment of the invention.

[0105] The preferred polygon is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably, the end faces of the end portions have the same number of corners as the polygon.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, a first portion of the container wall is formed of the planar composite material or blank; wherein another portion of the container wall is formed of an element other than the planar composite material or blank. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-seventh embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any one of the thirty-first to thirty-sixth embodiments of the invention. Preferably, the first portion and the other portion together form the container wall to close the container.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the first portion of the container wall is an open cup-shaped container. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the thirty-seventh embodiment of the invention. Preferably, the non-planar composite material or blank element closes the open cup-shaped container formed by the first portion.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the other portion of the container wall is surrounded by the end portion of the sealed container. This preferred embodiment is the thirty-ninth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the thirty-seventh or thirty-eighth embodiment of the invention.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the non-planar composite material or blank element defines the interior of the container in the longitudinal direction. This preferred embodiment is the fortieth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of any one of the thirty-seventh to thirty-ninth embodiments of the invention.

[0110] Preferably, the top surface of the end portion of the sealed container is formed by a non-planar composite material or blank element. A preferred top surface is the top surface of a truncated pyramid.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the non-planar composite material or blank element is a non-planar component. This preferred embodiment is the forty-first embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of any one of the thirty-seventh to fortyth embodiments of the invention.

[0112] The preferred non-planar component comprises a first polymer composition. Preferably, the non-planar component is composed of the first polymer composition. The preferred first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both. Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both, in proportions ranging from 70 to 100% by weight, preferably 80 to 99% by weight, more preferably 90 to 98% by weight, based on the first polymer composition. The preferred condensation polymer is a polyester or a polyamide (PA), or both. The preferred polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The preferred polyolefin is polyethylene or polypropylene, or both. The preferred polyethylene is HDPE. The preferred first polymer composition further comprises a colorant. Preferably, the first polymer composition comprises a colorant in proportions ranging from 0.5 to 5% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 4% by weight, more preferably 0.5 to 3% by weight, based on the first polymer composition in each case. The preferred first polymer composition has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 100 to 180°C, more preferably 100 to 170°C, more preferably 100 to 160°C, more preferably 110 to 150°C, more preferably 120 to 140°C, even more preferably 125 to 140°C, and most preferably 128 to 136°C.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the non-planar composite material or blank element includes a spout. This preferred embodiment is the forty-second embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any one of the thirty-seventh to forty-first embodiments of the invention.

[0114] Preferably, a cap, preferably a screw-on cap, is placed on a non-planar composite material or blank component so that the pouring aperture of the nozzle is covered by the cap. Preferably, the cap is screwed onto the nozzle.

[0115] The preferred cap comprises a second polymer composition. Preferably, the cap is composed of a second polymer composition. Preferably, the second polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both. Preferably, the second polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both, in proportions ranging from 70 to 100% by weight, preferably 80 to 99% by weight, more preferably 90 to 98% by weight, each based on the second polymer composition. Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene or polypropylene, or both. Preferred polyethylene is HDPE. Preferred condensation polymers are polyesters or polyamides (PA), or both. Preferred polyesters are polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The preferred second polymer composition further comprises a colorant. The second polymer composition preferably has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, more preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 100 to 180°C, more preferably 100 to 170°C, more preferably 100 to 160°C, more preferably 110 to 150°C, more preferably 120 to 140°C, even more preferably 125 to 140°C, and most preferably 128 to 136°C.

[0116] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the opening aid is arranged on an element of a non-planar composite material or blank, preferably in the nozzle. This preferred embodiment is the forty-third embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any of the thirty-seventh to forty-second embodiments of the invention. Alternatively or even more preferably, the opening aid is arranged at the cap, preferably in the cap. Preferably, the opening aid is designed and arranged for opening the pouring hole of the nozzle.

[0117] The preferred opening aid is a cutting aid or a tearing aid, or both. Alternatively or more preferably, the opening aid is annular. The preferred annular cutting aid is a cutting ring. The preferred annular tearing aid is a tearing ring.

[0118] The preferred opening aid comprises a third polymer composition. Preferably, the opening aid is composed of a third polymer composition. Preferably, the third polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both. Preferably, the third polymer composition comprises a polyolefin or a condensation polymer, or both, in proportions ranging from 50 to 100% by weight, more preferably 60 to 100% by weight, more preferably 70 to 100% by weight, even more preferably 80 to 100% by weight, and most preferably 90 to 100% by weight, based on the third polymer composition. The preferred polyolefin is polyethylene or polypropylene, or both. The preferred polyethylene is HDPE. The preferred condensation polymer is polyester or polyamide (PA), or both. The preferred polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The preferred third polymer composition further comprises a colorant. The third polymer composition preferably has a melting temperature in the range of 90 to 350°C, more preferably 90 to 300°C, more preferably 90 to 280°C, more preferably 90 to 260°C, more preferably 90 to 240°C, more preferably 90 to 220°C, more preferably 100 to 200°C, more preferably 100 to 190°C, more preferably 110 to 180°C, and most preferably 120 to 170°C.

[0119] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the sealed container contains food. This preferred embodiment is the forty-fourth embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of any one of the thirty-first to forty-third embodiments of the invention.

[0120] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the planar composite material or blank has at least two folds, preferably at least three folds, and more preferably at least four folds. This preferred embodiment is the forty-fifth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any one of the thirty-first to forty-fourth embodiments of the invention.

[0121] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the planar composite material or blank includes a first longitudinal boundary and another longitudinal boundary opposite to the first longitudinal boundary in the circumferential direction; the first longitudinal boundary is joined to the other longitudinal boundary to form a longitudinal seam of the sealed container. This preferred embodiment is the forty-sixth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any one of the thirty-first to forty-fifth embodiments of the invention.

[0122] In a further preferred embodiment of the sealed container, the internal capacity of the container is 100 to 2000 ml, preferably 100 to 1500 ml, more preferably 100 to 1200 ml, more preferably 100 to 1000 ml, more preferably 100 to 900 ml, more preferably 100 to 800 ml, more preferably 100 to 700 ml, more preferably 100 to 600 ml, more preferably 100 to 500 ml, more preferably 100 to 480 ml, more preferably 100 to 460 ml, more preferably 100 to 440 ml, more preferably 100 to 420 ml, more preferably 100 to 400 ml, more preferably 100 to 380 ml, more preferably 100 to 360 ml, more preferably 110 to 360 ml, more preferably 120 to 360 ml, more preferably 130 to 360 ml, more preferably 140 to 360 ml, more preferably 150 to 360 ml, more preferably 160 to 360 ml, and even more preferably 170 to 360 ml. Within the range of ml. This preferred embodiment is the forty-seventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably also has the features of any one of the thirty-first to forty-sixth embodiments of the present invention.

[0123] More preferably, the internal capacity of the container is in the range of 150 to 2000 ml, more preferably 200 to 2000 ml, more preferably 250 to 2000 ml, more preferably 300 to 2000 ml, more preferably 350 to 2000 ml, more preferably 400 to 2000 ml, more preferably 420 to 2000 ml, more preferably 440 to 2000 ml, more preferably 460 to 2000 ml, more preferably 480 to 2000 ml, more preferably 480 to 1800 ml, more preferably 480 to 1600 ml, more preferably 480 to 1400 ml, more preferably 480 to 1200 ml, most preferably 480 to 1150 ml, more preferably 480 to 1100 ml, and even more preferably 490 to 1100 ml.

[0124] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealed container has four longitudinal edges, each longitudinal edge extending along the length of the sealed container from the upright base to an end portion, wherein the sealed container, along its length between the upright base and the end portion, preferably continuously has a square cross-section at least in segments, wherein the shortest of the four longitudinal edges has a length l, wherein the ratio of the length l to the side length a of the square cross-section is in the range of 1.3 to 2.95, preferably 1.35 to 2.95, more preferably 1.38 to 2.8, and most preferably 1.39 to 2.8. This preferred embodiment is the forty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any of the thirty-first to forty-seventh embodiments of the invention.

[0125] The length *l* is the height of the sealed container excluding its end portions. Preferably, the four longitudinal edges have equal lengths. However, in principle, it is also possible, for example, that two longitudinal edges are shorter than the other two. In this case, the length *l* represents the shorter longitudinal edge.

[0126] The forty-ninth embodiment of the present invention is a method comprising the following steps:

[0127] a. Provide a planar composite material according to the invention, preferably any one of the first to fifteenth or twenty-seventh embodiments according to the invention, or a blank of such a planar composite material for producing a sealed container, said planar composite material or said blank comprising a first longitudinal boundary and another longitudinal boundary;

[0128] b. Fold the planar composite material or the blank along the grooves of the at least first plurality of grooves; and

[0129] c. Make the first longitudinal boundary contact and join with the other longitudinal boundary to obtain a longitudinal seam.

[0130] The other longitudinal boundary is preferably opposite to the first longitudinal boundary in the circumferential direction. This method is preferably a method for producing a container precursor, and more particularly, a method for producing a container precursor. The container precursor is preferably a container precursor of the present invention according to any embodiment thereof.

[0131] The fiftieth embodiment of the present invention is a container precursor obtainable by the method described above in the forty-ninth embodiment of the present invention. This container precursor is preferably designed as in the container precursor of the present invention according to any embodiment thereof.

[0132] The fifty-first embodiment of the present invention is a method comprising the following steps:

[0133] A) Provide a container precursor according to the present invention, preferably according to any one of the twenty-eighth to thirtieth or fiftieth embodiments of the present invention;

[0134] B) Forming and closing the end portion of the container precursor;

[0135] C) Fill the container precursor with food; and

[0136] D) A sealed container is obtained by forming and closing the upright base of the container precursor by folding the planar composite material or the blank along the grooves of the at least first plurality of grooves and joining portions of the planar composite material or the blank together.

[0137] This method is preferably a method for producing a sealed container, and more preferably a method for producing a sealed container. The sealed container is preferably a sealed container of the present invention according to any embodiment thereof.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned method, the end portion includes at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4 end side surfaces formed of planar composite material or blank, which are preferably planar and inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction extending along the length of the container front body, so that the container front body tapers at least segmentally in the end portion; wherein the periphery of each end side surface is formed by a plurality of side edges of the end portion; wherein each of the plurality of side edges includes a pair of steep edges opposite each other in the circumferential direction of the container front body perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; wherein each The steepest edge of each pair of steep edges on the end side surface lies in the plane of its respective end side surface, and in this plane of its respective end side surface, extends relative to each other at an angle ranging from 40 to 60°, preferably 41 to 59°, more preferably 42 to 58°, more preferably 43 to 57°, more preferably 44 to 57°, more preferably 45 to 57°, more preferably 46 to 57°, more preferably 47 to 57°, more preferably 48 to 57°, more preferably 49 to 57°, more preferably 50 to 57°, more preferably 51 to 57°, more preferably 52 to 57°, more preferably 53 to 56°, more preferably 53.5 to 55.5°, and even more preferably 54.0 to 55.0°. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-second embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the fifty-first embodiment of the invention.

[0139] Alternatively, preferably, the steep edges of each pair of steep edges of each end face are located in the plane of their respective end face surfaces and extend relative to each other in this plane of their respective end face surfaces at an angle ranging from 43 to 56°, more preferably 43 to 55°, more preferably 43 to 54°, more preferably 43 to 53°, more preferably 43 to 52°, more preferably 43 to 51°, more preferably 43 to 50°, more preferably 43 to 49°, more preferably 43 to 48°, more preferably 43 to 47°, more preferably 44.0 to 46.0°, and even more preferably 44.5 to 45.5°.

[0140] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, each of the plurality of sides includes a bottom edge that is convexly curved relative to its periphery toward an upright base in a sealed container. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-third embodiment of the invention, and it also preferably has the features of the fifty-second embodiment of the invention.

[0141] Preferably, each bottom edge is curved in an arcuate convex shape relative to the end side surface formed by its respective bottom edge around its periphery, more preferably in a circular arcuate convex shape.

[0142] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the end face surfaces together substantially form the lateral surface of a truncated pyramid. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-fourth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the fifty-second or fifty-third embodiment of the invention.

[0143] "Basic" here means that it is possible not to cause a deviation from the basic geometry of the truncated pyramid. Specifically, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid can be curved. Preferably, the edges of the base of the truncated pyramid are convex relative to the adjacent end face surfaces, more preferably arcuate convex curvature, and more preferably circular arcuate convex curvature. Here, each end face surface preferably consists of a pair of steep edges, an edge of the top face of the truncated pyramid, and an edge of the base face of the truncated pyramid. Alternatively or more preferably, the angle of the steep edges of each pair of steep edges is the angle between the steep edges of each lateral face of the supplementary pyramid at the vertex of that supplementary pyramid.

[0144] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the truncated pyramid has a polygonal base. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-fifth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the fifty-fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0145] The preferred polygon is a regular polygon. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably, the end faces of the end portions have the same number of corners as the polygon.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the forming and closing end portion in step B) includes elements for joining the planar composite material or the blank to a non-planar composite material or blank. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-sixth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any one of the fifty-first to fifty-fifth embodiments of the invention.

[0147] Additionally or alternatively preferably, the joining in step B) is performed by gluing or sealing, or both. Preferred sealing is heat sealing or ultrasonic sealing, or both. Preferred heat sealing involves heating a planar composite material or blank, or an element of a non-planar composite material or blank, or both, by contact with a solid or gas, or both. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in step B), a portion of the planar composite material or blank, or a portion of an element of a non-planar composite material or blank, or both, is heated to a temperature in the range of 220 to 420°C, preferably 240 to 400°C, more preferably 260 to 380°C.

[0148] Preferably, the top surface of the end portion of the container precursor is formed from a non-planar composite material or blank element. A preferred top surface is the top surface of a truncated pyramid.

[0149] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the non-planar composite material or blank element includes a nozzle. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-seventh embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the fifty-sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0150] Preferably, a cap, preferably a screw-on cap, is arranged on the element of a non-planar composite material or blank so that the pouring aperture of the nozzle is covered by the cap. Preferably, the cap is screwed onto the nozzle. Preferred caps are arranged and / or formed as in one embodiment of a hermetically sealed container according to the invention.

[0151] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the opening aid is arranged on an element of a non-planar composite material or blank, preferably in a nozzle. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-eighth embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of the fifty-seventh embodiment of the invention. The preferred opening aid is arranged and / or formed as in the opening aid of one embodiment of the sealed container according to the invention.

[0152] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the nonplanar composite material or blank element is a nonplanar assembly. This preferred embodiment is the fifty-ninth embodiment of the invention, which preferably also has the features of any of the fifty-sixth to fifty-eighth embodiments of the invention. The preferred nonplanar assembly is arranged and / or formed as in one of the embodiments of the hermetically sealed container according to the invention.

[0153] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the joining of the planar composite material or the blank with the non-planar composite material or the blank element in step B) comprises pressing the planar composite material or the blank with the non-planar composite material or the blank element against each other under a first contact pressure in a first pressing step and under a second contact pressure in another pressing step; wherein the first contact pressure is less than the second contact pressure, preferably less than 100 mbar, more preferably less than 200 mbar, more preferably less than 300 mbar, more preferably less than 400 mbar, more preferably less than 500 mbar, more preferably less than 600 mbar, more preferably less than 700 mbar, more preferably less than 800 mbar, even more preferably less than 900 mbar, and most preferably less than 1,000 mbar. This preferred embodiment is the sixtieth embodiment of the invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the fifty-sixth to fifty-ninth embodiments of the invention.

[0154] Preferably, the first pressing step is performed before another pressing step. Alternatively, the first pressing step is performed after another pressing step. Alternatively, the first pressing step and another pressing step are performed in time overlapping, or simultaneously with another pressing step. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, the first pressing step includes pressing in one or two first pressing directions, while the other pressing step includes pressing in one or two additional pressing directions different from the first pressing directions. In the case of two first pressing directions, these are preferably opposite to each other. In the case of two additional pressing directions, these are preferably opposite to each other. Preferably, each first pressing direction is substantially perpendicular to each additional pressing direction. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, the first contact pressure is in the range of 800 to 3,000 millibars, preferably 1,000 to 2,800 millibars, more preferably 1,200 to 2,600 millibars. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, the other contact pressure is in the range of 2,000 to 4,000 millibars, preferably 2,200 to 3,800 millibars, more preferably 2,400 to 3,600 millibars. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in the first pressing step, planar composite material or blanks and non-planar composite material or blanks are pressed against each other on a first pair of opposing sides of the non-planar composite material or blanks. Preferably, neither side of the first pair of opposing sides of the non-planar composite material or blanks is pressed onto the longitudinal seam of the container front body under a first contact pressure in the first pressing step. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in the first pressing step, planar composite material or blanks are pressed against two opposing sidewalls of the base member. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in another pressing step, planar composite material or blanks and non-planar composite material or blanks are pressed against each other on another pair of opposing sides of the non-planar composite material or blanks. The other pair of opposing sides differs from the first pair of opposing sides. Preferably, in another pressing step, the non-planar composite material or blanks are pressed onto the longitudinal seam of the container front body under another contact pressure. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in another pressing step, the blank is pressed onto two opposing sidewalls of the base member.

[0155] In a further preferred embodiment of the method, the sealed container has four longitudinal edges, each longitudinal edge of the sealed container extending along the length of the sealed container from the upright base to an end portion, wherein the sealed container, along its length between the upright base and the end portion, preferably continuously has a square cross-section at least in segments, wherein the shortest of the four longitudinal edges has a length l, wherein the ratio of the length l to the side length a of the square cross-section is in the range of 1.3 to 2.95, preferably 1.35 to 2.95, more preferably 1.38 to 2.8, and most preferably 1.39 to 2.8. This preferred embodiment is the sixty-first embodiment of the invention, which also preferably has the features of any of the fifty-first to sixtieth embodiments of the invention.

[0156] The length *l* is the height of the sealed container excluding its end portions. Preferably, the four longitudinal edges have equal lengths. However, in principle, it is also possible, for example, that two longitudinal edges are shorter than the other two. In this case, the length *l* represents the shorter longitudinal edge.

[0157] The sixty-second embodiment of the present invention is a sealed container that can be obtained by the above-described method according to the present invention, preferably according to any one of the fifty-first to sixty-first embodiments. Such a sealed container is preferably designed like the sealed container of the present invention according to any embodiment thereof.

[0158] The sixty-third embodiment of the present invention is used in the production of a food container in each case, according to the present invention, preferably a planar composite material according to any one of the first to fifteenth or twenty-seventh embodiments of the present invention, or according to the present invention, preferably a container precursor according to any one of the twenty-eighth to thirtieth or fiftieth embodiments of the present invention. Preferably, the food container is selected from one of dimensional stability, airtightness, and liquid tightness, or a combination of at least two of them.

[0159] Features described as preferred in one category of the invention (e.g., planar composite materials according to the invention) are equally preferred in an embodiment of another category of the invention, such as a sealed container or a method of the invention. Furthermore, the features described below are preferred for each category of the invention.

[0160] Planar composites

[0161] All laminated materials conceivable in the context of this invention, and which appear to those skilled in the art suitable for producing dimensionally stable food containers in the context of this invention, particularly sheet laminates, are considered planar composite materials. Planar composite materials used to manufacture food containers are also called laminated materials. Such planar composite materials have a sequence of layers stacked on top of each other in a planar manner. This planar composite material typically consists of a thermoplastic polymer layer (referred to herein as the outer polymer layer), a carrier layer (typically made of cardboard or paper, which imparts dimensional stability to the container), optional thermoplastic polymer layers (referred herein as the intermediate polymer layer and / or optional adhesion promoter layer), a barrier layer, and additional thermoplastic polymer layers (referred herein as the inner polymer layer).

[0162] Essentially, "planar composite material" is used herein as a general term, encompassing semi-endless rolls and blanks of such rolls. The blanks are preferably designed for the production of single containers. Therefore, the blanks have the first plurality of grooves. The rolls, as planar composite materials, have the first plurality of grooves and additional grooves, i.e., multiple sets of multiple pluralities of grooves. The planar composite material can be a planar or three-dimensional object. The latter is particularly true when the planar composite material has been folded or rolled up. In any case, the planar composite material is sheet-like. Therefore, planar composite materials can also be referred to as sheet composite materials.

[0163] The planar composite material layers constituting this layer sequence are bonded to each other across their entire surface. Two layers bond together when the adhesion between them exceeds the van der Waals attraction. Preferably, the layers bonded to each other are selected from one of the following: bonding by coating, laminating, sealing, gluing, and pressing, or a combination of at least two of these. Layers bonded by coating are preferably bonded by melt coating or by vapor deposition. A preferred melt coating method is melt extrusion coating.

[0164] Unless otherwise stated, in a layer sequence, layers may be indirectly connected to each other (i.e., having one or at least two intermediate layers), or directly connected to each other (i.e., without intermediate layers). This is especially true in formulations where one layer is superimposed on another. A formulation in which the layer sequence includes a list of layers means that at least the specified layers are present in the specified order. Such a formulation does not necessarily mean that these layers follow each other immediately. A formulation in which two layers are adjacent to each other means that these two layers follow each other immediately, and therefore there are no intermediate layers. However, such a formulation does not specify whether the two layers are joined. Rather, the two layers may be in contact with each other. However, preferably, the two layers are joined together, preferably in a planar manner.

[0165] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the planar composite material is configured according to one of its embodiments, wherein the planar composite material is configured as a blank for producing a sealed container; wherein the bending stiffness of the planar composite material in a first composite direction is greater than the bending stiffness in a further composite direction perpendicular to the first composite direction, wherein the blank includes a first transverse margin and a further transverse margin opposite to the first transverse margin along the longitudinal direction of the sealed container; the further transverse margin is arranged and configured to provide a first portion of an end portion of the sealed container by folding the further transverse margin along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves and joining portions of the further transverse margin together; wherein the edge of the further transverse margin surrounds another portion of the end portion; the edge, along its length, is at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably 100% around the first composite direction at ±30°, preferably ±25°, more preferably ±20°, more preferably ±15°, more preferably ± The angle extension is within the range of 10°, more preferably ±5°, even more preferably ±3°, and most preferably 0°. The edge of the other lateral boundary referred to herein is preferably a cut edge of the blank. This cut edge should be distinguished from an edge formed by folding. Preferably, a first portion of the end portion has an opening surrounded by this edge. Preferably, this edge forms the periphery of the opening. In a sealed container, this opening is preferably closed by another portion of the end portion. Typically, the first composite direction and the other composite direction lie in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material.

[0166] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier layer comprises a plurality of fibers; wherein the plurality of fibers are oriented in the first composite direction. Alternatively or additionally preferably, at least 55% of the length of the plurality of fibers extends around the first composite direction within an angle range of ±30°, more preferably ±25°, more preferably ±20°, more preferably ±15°, more preferably ±10°, more preferably ±5°, even more preferably ±3°, and most preferably 0°.

[0167] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the bending stiffness of the planar composite material relative to the bending direction of the planar composite material has a maximum value for bending in the first composite material direction.

[0168] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the planar composite material has a bending stiffness in a first composite direction and another bending stiffness in the other composite direction. Preferably, the ratio of the other bending stiffness to the first bending stiffness is in the range of 1:10 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:9 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:8 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:7 to 1:1.5, more preferably 1:6 to 1:1.5, even more preferably 1:5 to 1:1.5, and most preferably 1:5 to 1:2. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the first bending stiffness is at least 10 mN higher than the other bending stiffness, more preferably at least 20 mN higher, more preferably at least 30 mN higher, more preferably at least 40 mN higher, more preferably at least 50 mN higher, more preferably at least 60 mN higher, more preferably at least 70 mN higher, more preferably at least 80 mN higher, more preferably at least 90 mN higher, even more preferably at least 100 mN higher, and most preferably at least 150 mN higher.

[0169] Alternatively or preferably, the first bending stiffness is in the range of 50 to 800 mN, more preferably 50 to 750 mN. Alternatively, preferably, the first bending stiffness is in the range of 60 to 800 mN, more preferably 70 to 800 mN, more preferably 80 to 800 mN, more preferably 90 to 800 mN, more preferably 100 to 800 mN, and most preferably 100 to 750 mN. Alternatively or preferably, the other bending stiffness is in the range of 50 to 750 mN, more preferably 100 to 700 mN.

[0170] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the planar composite material is configured for producing a blank for a sealed container; wherein the blank includes a first transverse boundary and another transverse boundary opposite to the first transverse boundary along the longitudinal direction of the sealed container; wherein the first transverse boundary is arranged and configured to provide an upright base for the sealed container opposite to an end portion in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container by folding the first transverse boundary along the grooves of the plurality of grooves and joining portions of the first transverse boundary.

[0171] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the plurality of grooves includes at least one auxiliary groove, preferably at least two auxiliary grooves, more preferably at least three auxiliary grooves, and most preferably four auxiliary grooves; wherein each auxiliary groove is arranged in the first transverse boundary adjacent to the longitudinal groove of the plurality of grooves, such that the bending radius of the longitudinal fold along such longitudinal groove is increased at least in the segment of the longitudinal fold. Preferably, each auxiliary groove bends away from its respective longitudinal groove curves. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, each auxiliary groove is arranged on the side of its respective longitudinal groove facing away from the center of the blank in the circumferential direction of the sealed container, based on the longitudinal direction of the sealed container perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sealed container.

[0172] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the end portion includes at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4, end-side surfaces formed of the planar composite material or blank, wherein the end-side surfaces are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container such that each end-side surface forms an angle in the range of 55 to 70°, preferably 55 to 69°, more preferably 55 to 68°, more preferably 55 to 67°, more preferably 55 to 66°, more preferably 55 to 65°, more preferably 55 to 64°, more preferably 56 to 63°, more preferably 57 to 62°, more preferably 58 to 61°, even more preferably 58.5 to 60.0° relative to the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, preferably, the aforementioned angle is in the range of 56 to 70°, more preferably 57 to 70°, more preferably 58 to 70°, more preferably 59 to 70°, more preferably 60 to 70°, more preferably 61 to 70°, more preferably 62 to 69°, more preferably 63 to 68°, more preferably 64 to 67°, and even more preferably 65.0 to 66.0°.

[0173] outer side

[0174] The outer side of the planar composite material is the surface of the planar composite material intended to come into contact with the environment of the container. This does not preclude the fact that, in individual areas of the container, the outer surfaces of different areas of the composite material may fold over or join with each other, for example, seal against each other.

[0175] inner side

[0176] The inner side of the planar composite material is the surface of the planar composite material in a container made of the planar composite material, which is intended to come into contact with the contents of the container, preferably food.

[0177] In this invention, grooves are linear material modifications designed to facilitate folding of planar composite materials or blanks along the grooves. Specifically, the grooves are designed to allow for folding as precisely as possible along the grooves. Thus, a sealed container can be formed from a planar composite material or blank having a corresponding groove pattern consisting of grooves by folding along the grooves. This groove pattern is also referred to herein as a first plurality of grooves. The planar composite material may include a further plurality of grooves, each arranged and configured to form a corresponding additional container. Preferably, the first plurality of grooves and each group of the further plurality of grooves are identical.

[0178] Along the groove, the planar composite material preferably has a depression on one side, preferably on its outer side, preferably in the form of a material displacement. On the opposite side, preferably on the inner side, the planar composite material preferably has a bulge along the groove.

[0179] In addition to the aforementioned folding, the production of sealed containers also includes joining areas of planar composite material or blanks that have been contacted by folding. A grooving tool is used to introduce grooves into the planar composite material or blank; this process is called grooving. In this invention, the grooving tool can be any tool suitable for grooving the planar composite material, blank, or carrier layer. For grooving, the grooving tool preferably includes a linear elevation having the shape of the linear recess. By contacting the planar composite material, blank, or carrier layer with the linear elevation, the linear recess can be introduced into the planar composite material, blank, or carrier layer. Therefore, the grooving tool can also be called a pressing tool. As a counterpart to the aforementioned positive tool, the grooving tool can also include a negative tool. The negative tool includes a linear recess, which can also be called a groove-shaped groove. The linear recess preferably has the shape of the linear elevation of the positive tool in its linear extension direction and is further configured to at least partially receive material of the planar composite material, blank, or carrier layer that has been displaced by the positive tool during the grooving process.

[0180] Polymer layers

[0181] In the following text, the term "polymer layer" specifically refers to the inner polymer layer, the intermediate polymer layer, and the outer polymer layer. Each polymer layer is based on a polymer or polymer blend, meaning that the polymer layer substantially comprises a polymer or polymer blend. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers, more preferably polyolefins. The polymer layers are preferably bonded or applied to the planar composite material in an extrusion process, preferably by melt extrusion coating. In addition to the polymer or polymer blend, each polymer layer may also contain additional components. These additional components are preferably components that will not adversely affect the behavior of the polymer melt when applied as a layer. The additional components can be, for example, inorganic compounds, such as metal salts, or other plastics, such as other thermoplastics.

[0182] Generally, suitable polymers for the polymer layer are particularly those that are easy to process due to their good extrusion behavior. Polymers obtained by chain polymerization are suitable, especially polyolefins, with cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), polycyclic olefin copolymers (POC), and especially polyethylene and polypropylene being particularly preferred, with polyethylene being especially preferred. Among polyethylenes, HDPE (high-density polyethylene), MDPE (medium-density polyethylene), LDPE (low-density polyethylene), LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene), and VLDPE (very low-density polyethylene), and blends of at least two of these are preferred. Suitable polymers preferably have a melt flow rate (MFR) in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably in the range of 2 to 20 g / 10 min, and particularly preferably in the range of 2.5 to 15 g / 10 min. Additionally or alternatively, the density of a suitable polymer layer is preferably 0.890 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.980 g / cm 3 The range is preferably from 0.895 g / cm³ to 0.975 g / cm³. 3 Within the range, more preferably within 0.900 g / cm³. 3 Up to 0.970 g / cm 3 The polymer layer preferably has at least one melting temperature in the range of 80 to 155°C, more preferably in the range of 90 to 145°C, and even more preferably in the range of 95 to 135°C.

[0183] Inner polymer layer

[0184] The inner polymer layer is based on at least one thermoplastic polymer, wherein the inner polymer layer may comprise particulate inorganic solids. However, preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises at least 70% by weight, preferably at least 80% by weight, and particularly preferably at least 95% by weight of one or more thermoplastic polymers based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer in each case. Preferably, the density of the polymer or polymer blend of the inner polymer layer (according to ISO 1183-1:2004) is between 0.900 and 0.980 g / cm³. 3 More preferably, it is within the range of 0.900 to 0.960 g / cm³. 3 Within the range of 0.900 to 0.940 g / cm³, the optimal value is between 0.900 and 0.940 g / cm³. 3 Within the range. Preferably, the polymer is a polyolefin. Preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Here, LDPE is particularly preferred polyethylene.

[0185] Preferably, the inner polymer layer comprises polyethylene or polypropylene, or both together, in proportions of at least 30% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, and most preferably at least 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer. Additionally or alternatively, the inner polymer layer preferably comprises HDPE, preferably in amounts of at least 5% by weight, more preferably at least 10% by weight, more preferably at least 15% by weight, and most preferably at least 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer. As a supplement to or alternative to one or more of the above polymers, the inner polymer layer preferably comprises a polymer prepared using a metallocene catalyst, preferably mPE. Preferably, the inner polymer layer contains at least 3% by weight, more preferably at least 5% by weight, of mPE in each case based on the total weight of the inner polymer layer. Here, the inner polymer layer may contain two or more, preferably two or three of the above polymers in the polymer blend, for example, at least a certain proportion of LDPE and mPE, or at least a certain proportion of LDPE and HDPE. More preferably, the inner polymer layer may comprise two or more, preferably three, sublayers stacked on top of each other, which preferably form the inner polymer layer. These sublayers are preferably layers obtained by co-extrusion.

[0186] In a preferred embodiment, the inner polymer layer comprises a first sublayer and a second sublayer in a direction from the outside of the planar composite to the inside of the planar composite. The first sublayer comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, each based on the weight of the first sublayer. The second sublayer comprises a blend comprising at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, even more preferably at least 60% by weight, and most preferably at least 65% by weight, of LDPE and at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 15% by weight, more preferably at least 20% by weight, and most preferably at least 25% by weight, of the blend, in each case based on the weight of the blend. In this case, the second sublayer preferably comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, of the blend, in each case based on the weight of the second sublayer. Particularly preferably, the second sublayer consists of a blend.

[0187] In a further preferred embodiment, the inner polymer layer comprises a first sublayer, a second sublayer, and a third sublayer in a direction from the outside of the planar composite to the inside of the planar composite. The first sublayer comprises at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, and most preferably at least 70% by weight of HDPE and at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 15% by weight, and more preferably at least 20% by weight of LDPE, in each case based on the weight of the first sublayer. The second sublayer comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight of LDPE, in each case based on the weight of the second sublayer. The third sublayer comprises a blend comprising at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, even more preferably at least 60% by weight, and most preferably at least 65% by weight of LDPE and at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 15% by weight, more preferably at least 20% by weight, and most preferably at least 25% by weight of mPE, each based on the weight of the blend. Here, the third sublayer preferably comprises at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, based on the weight of the third sublayer in each case. Particularly preferably, the third sublayer consists of a blend.

[0188] Outer polymer layer

[0189] The outer polymer layer preferably comprises polyethylene or polypropylene or both. Preferred polyethylene is LDPE and HDPE and mixtures thereof. The preferred outer polymer layer contains at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, even more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight of one or more LDPEs in each case.

[0190] Intermediate polymer layer

[0191] The intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises at least one polyethylene or at least one polypropylene, or both. Particularly preferred polyethylene is LDPE. Preferably, the intermediate polymer layer comprises at least 20% by weight, more preferably at least 30% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the intermediate polymer layer in each case. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises HDPE, preferably at least 10% by weight, more preferably at least 20% by weight, more preferably at least 30% by weight, more preferably at least 40% by weight, more preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, each based on the total weight of the intermediate polymer layer. Here, the intermediate polymer layer preferably comprises the aforementioned polymers in the polymer blend.

[0192] Barrier layer

[0193] The barrier layer can be any material that the technician deems suitable for this purpose, provided it has sufficient barrier properties, especially against oxygen. Therefore, the barrier layer preferably has a density of less than 50 cm³ / (m²). . sky . (atm), preferably less than 40 cm³ / (m²) . sky . atm), more preferably less than 30 cm³ / (m²) . sky . atm), more preferably less than 20 cm³ / (m²) . sky . atm), more preferably less than 10 cm³ / (m²) . sky . atm), and more preferably less than 3 cm³ (m²) . sky .atm), the optimal value is no greater than 1 cm³ (m²) . sky . The barrier layer preferably exhibits an oxygen permeation rate (atm). It also preferably blocks water vapor. Therefore, the barrier layer is preferably an oxygen barrier layer, and more preferably a water vapor barrier layer. Furthermore, the barrier layer preferably blocks visible light, i.e., it is also a light barrier layer.

[0194] The barrier layer is preferably selected from

[0195] a. Plastic layer;

[0196] b. Metal layer;

[0197] c. Oxide layer; or

[0198] A combination of at least two of da to c.

[0199] If the barrier layer according to alternative a. is a plastic layer, it preferably contains at least 70% by weight, particularly preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 95% by weight of at least one plastic known to those skilled in the art for this purpose, especially due to its suitability for the aroma or gas barrier properties of the packaging container. Plastics that can be considered here, particularly thermoplastics, are plastics containing N or O, either alone or in mixtures of two or more. According to the invention, it may prove advantageous that the melting temperature of the plastic layer is in the range of greater than 155 to 300°C, preferably in the range of 160 to 280°C, and particularly preferably in the range of 170 to 270°C.

[0200] More preferably, the basis weight of the plastic layer is between 2 and 120 g / m³. 2 Within the range of 3 to 60 g / m 2 Within the range of 4 to 40 g / m³, it is particularly preferred. 2 More preferably 6 to 30 g / m 2 Within the range. More preferably, the plastic layer can be obtained from a melt, for example by extrusion, particularly layer extrusion. Furthermore, preferably, the plastic layer can also be introduced into the planar composite material by lamination. In this case, it is preferable to incorporate the film into the planar composite material. According to another embodiment, the plastic layer can also be selected by deposition from a solution or dispersion of plastic.

[0201] A suitable polymer is preferably defined as having a weight-average molecular weight of 3.10, as determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) using light scattering. 3 Up to 1.10 7 Within the range of g / mol, preferably in the range of 5.10 g / mol.3 Up to 1.10 6 Within the range of g / mol, it is particularly preferred to be in the range of 6.10 g / mol. 3 Up to 1.10 5 Those in the range of g / mol. Suitable polymers are in particular polyamides (PA) or polyethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or mixtures thereof. Among polyamides, all PAs that seem suitable for use according to the present invention can be considered.

[0202] All EVOHs that appear suitable for use according to the present invention to those skilled in the art can be considered as EVOHs. Examples of these can be found under the trade name EVAL Europe NV, Belgium. TM In various different versions, such as grade EVAL TM F104B or EVAL TM Purchased from LR171B. Preferred EVOH has at least one, two, more, or all of the following properties:

[0203] - Ethylene content in the range of 20 to 60 mol%, preferably 25 to 45 mol%.

[0204] - Between 1.0 and 1.4 g / cm 3 Preferably, the concentration is 1.1 to 1.3 g / cm³. 3 Density within the range;

[0205] - Melting point in the range of greater than 155°C and at most 235°C, preferably 165 to 225°C;

[0206] - MFR values ​​in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably 2 to 20 g / 10 min (when T S(EVOH When <210℃, 210℃ / 2.16kg; when 210℃ <T S(EVOH (<230℃ / 2.16kg)

[0207] - Between 0.05 and 3.2 cm 3 ·20µm / (m 2 Within the range of 0.1 to 1 cm (atm), the preferred range is 0.1 to 1 cm. 3 ·20µm / (m 2 Oxygen permeability within the range of ·day·atm).

[0208] Preferably, at least one polymer layer, more preferably an inner polymer layer, or preferably all polymer layers, have a melt temperature lower than that of the barrier layer. This is especially true if the barrier layer is formed of plastic. In this case, the melt temperature of the at least one polymer layer, particularly the inner polymer layer, and the melt temperature of the barrier layer preferably differ by at least 1 K, particularly preferably by at least 10 K, more preferably by at least 50 K, and even more preferably by at least 100 K. The temperature difference should preferably be selected only high enough that it does not cause the barrier layer to melt during folding, and in particular, it does not cause the plastic layer to melt.

[0209] According to alternative b, the barrier layer is a metallic layer. In principle, all metal-containing layers known to those skilled in the art and capable of producing high opacity and oxygen impermeability are suitable as metallic layers. According to a preferred embodiment, the metallic layer can exist as a foil or as a deposited layer, for example, after physical vapor deposition. Preferably, the metallic layer is a continuous layer. According to a further preferred embodiment, the thickness of the metallic layer is in the range of 3 to 20 µm, preferably in the range of 3.5 to 12 µm, and particularly preferably in the range of 4 to 10 µm.

[0210] Preferred metals are aluminum, iron, or copper. For example, a steel layer in foil form can preferably be used as an iron layer. More preferably, the metal layer is an aluminum-containing layer, preferably an aluminum layer, and more preferably an aluminum foil. The aluminum layer can suitably be composed of an aluminum alloy, such as AlFeMn, AlFe1.5Mn, AlFeSi, or AlFeSiMn. The purity, based on the entire aluminum layer, is typically 97.5% and higher, preferably 98.5% and higher. In a particular embodiment, the metal layer is composed of aluminum foil. Suitable aluminum foil has a ductility greater than 1%, preferably greater than 1.3%, particularly preferably greater than 1.5%, and / or greater than 30 N / mm. 2 Preferably greater than 40 N / mm 2 Especially preferred is a value greater than 50 N / mm 2 The tensile strength. Suitable aluminum foil exhibits a drop size greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 4 mm, and particularly preferably greater than 5 mm in the pipette test. Suitable alloys for manufacturing the aluminum layer or foil can be purchased from Hydro Aluminium Deutschland GmbH or Amcor Flexibles Singen GmbH under the names EN AW 1200, EN AW 8079, or EN AW 8111. When the metal layer acts as a barrier layer, an adhesion promoter layer can be provided on one or both sides of the metal layer, preferably adjacent to the metal layer on the respective side.

[0211] Furthermore, according to alternative c, an oxide layer can be selected as the barrier layer. All oxide layers familiar to those skilled in the art and appearing suitable for achieving a barrier effect against light, vapor, and / or gases can be considered as oxide layers. Preferred oxide layers are semi-metal oxide layers or metal oxide layers, or both. Preferred semi-metal oxide layers are layers based on one or more silicon oxide compounds (SiOx layers). Preferred metal oxide layers are layers based on the aforementioned metals aluminum, iron, or copper, and such metal oxide layers are based on titanium oxide compounds, with aluminum oxide layers (AlOx layers) being particularly preferred. According to a preferred embodiment, the oxide layer can be present as a deposited layer. The deposited oxide layer is exemplarily fabricated by vapor deposition on a barrier substrate. Preferred methods for this are physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD), preferably plasma-assisted. The oxide layer is preferably a continuous layer.

[0212] The barrier substrate can be composed of any material that appears suitable to a technician for use as a barrier substrate according to the invention. In this case, the barrier substrate is preferably suitable for coating with an oxide layer. Preferably, the surface of the layer is sufficiently smooth for this purpose. More preferably, the thickness of the barrier substrate is in the range of 2 to 30 µm, preferably 2 to 28 µm, more preferably 2 to 26 µm, more preferably 3 to 24 µm, more preferably 4 to 22 µm, and most preferably 5 to 20 µm. Furthermore, the barrier substrate preferably exhibits a barrier effect against oxygen or water vapor, or both. Preferably, the barrier substrate has a greater barrier effect against oxygen permeation than the oxide layer. Preferably, the oxygen permeability of the barrier substrate is in the range of 0.1 to 50 cm³ / (m²). . d . (bar), preferably 0.2 to 40 cm³ / (m²) . d . (bar), more preferably 0.3 to 30 cm³ / (m²) . d .Within the range of (bar). Preferred barrier substrates comprise cellulose or polymers or both, more preferably composed of cellulose or polymers or both. Preferred polymers here are oriented polymers. Preferably, the oriented polymer is uniaxially oriented or biaxially oriented. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers. Preferably, the barrier substrate is composed of polymers. Preferably, the barrier substrate comprises at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, and most preferably at least 90% by weight, of a polymer selected from condensates, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, or combinations of at least two of these, based on the weight of the barrier substrate itself. More preferably, the barrier substrate is composed of the above-mentioned polymers. Preferred polypropylene is oriented, particularly uniaxially oriented (oPP) or biaxially oriented (BoPP). Preferred condensates are polyesters or polyamides (PA) or both. Preferred polyesters are selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactide (PLA), and vinyl polymers, or combinations of at least two of these. Preferred vinyl polymers are ethylene alcohol copolymers or polyvinyl alcohol, or both. Preferred polyvinyl alcohol is an ethylene alcohol copolymer. Preferred ethylene alcohol copolymer is an ethylene-ethylene alcohol copolymer.

[0213] Carrier layer

[0214] The carrier layer can be any material suitable for this purpose to a person skilled in the art, possessing sufficient strength and rigidity to impart sufficient stability to the container so that it substantially retains its shape when filled. In particular, this is an essential characteristic of the carrier layer, as the present invention relates to the technical field of dimensionally stable containers. Such dimensionally stable containers are fundamentally different from bags and pouches typically made of film. In addition to many plastics, plant-based fibrous materials, especially cellulose, preferably sized, bleached, and / or unbleached cellulose, are preferred, with paper and cardboard being particularly preferred. Therefore, the preferred carrier layer comprises multiple fibers. The basis weight of the carrier layer is preferably between 120 and 450 g / m³. 2 More preferably, it is within the range of 130 to 400 g / m 2 Within the range, the optimal value is between 150 and 380 g / m³. 2Within a certain range. Preferred cardboard typically has a single-layer or multi-layer structure and may have one or more top coats coated on one or both sides. Furthermore, preferred cardboard has a residual moisture content of less than 20% by weight, preferably 2 to 15% by weight, and particularly preferably 4 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the cardboard. Particularly preferred cardboard has a multi-layer structure. Furthermore, the cardboard preferably has at least one layer on the environmentally facing surface, but particularly preferably at least two layers, referred to by those skilled in the art as "paper coatings" (…). paper coating The cardboard has a covering layer of 100 to 360 J / m. 2 Preferred 120 to 350 J / m 2 The preferred values ​​are 135 to 310 J / m³. 2 The Scott-Bond values ​​are within the range (according to Tappi 569). This range enables the provision of composite materials that can be used to fold containers with high density, ease of use, and low tolerance.

[0215] The carrier layer preferably has a bending stiffness in the first direction in the range of 70 to 700 mN, more preferably 80 to 650 mN. When the carrier layer comprises multiple fibers, the first direction is preferably the orientation direction of the fibers. The carrier layer comprising multiple fibers further preferably has a bending stiffness in another direction perpendicular to the first direction in the range of 10 to 350 mN, more preferably 20 to 300 mN. A preferred planar composite material having a carrier layer has a bending stiffness in the first direction in the range of 100 to 700 mN. More preferably, the aforementioned planar composite material has a bending stiffness in another direction in the range of 50 to 500 mN.

[0216] Preferably, the carrier layer comprises at least two, more preferably at least three, and particularly preferably exactly three or five sublayers, each made of a fibrous material, wherein the sublayers are stacked and bonded to each other. The fibrous materials of each sublayer may be at least partially different from each other, or may be all the same. A further particularly preferred carrier layer comprises the following layers as stacked and interconnected sublayer sequences (preferably in the direction from the outside to the inside of the carrier layer): a first sublayer containing fibrous material, a second sublayer containing fibrous material, and a third sublayer containing fibrous material. The fibrous materials of the first to third sublayers may be the same as or different from each other. Furthermore, in addition to the above-described layer sequence, the preferred carrier layer includes at least one cover layer as an additional sublayer. Preferably, the layer sequence of the first to third sublayers is superimposed with at least one cover layer as an additional sublayer on the outside of the carrier layer. Alternatively or more preferably, the layer sequence of the first to third sublayers is superimposed with at least one cover layer as an additional sublayer on the inside of the carrier layer. Preferably, the average fiber length of the multiple fibers in the first sublayer fiber material is less than the average fiber length of the multiple fibers in the third sublayer fiber material, preferably less than 0.1 to 3 mm, more preferably less than 0.5 to 2.5 mm, and most preferably less than 1 to 2.0 mm.

[0217] Cover layer

[0218] The preferred coating layer is a "paper coating." In papermaking, a "paper coating" is a coating layer comprising inorganic solid particles, preferably pigments and additives. The "paper coating" is preferably applied as a liquid phase, preferably as a suspension or dispersion, to the surface of a layer containing paper or cardboard. The preferred dispersion is an aqueous dispersion. The preferred suspension is an aqueous suspension. Another preferred liquid phase comprises inorganic solid particles, preferably pigments; a binder; and additives. Preferred pigments are selected from calcium carbonate, kaolin, talc, silicates, plastic pigments, and titanium dioxide. Preferred kaolin is calcined kaolin. Preferred calcium carbonate is selected from marble, chalk, and precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), or a combination of at least two of these. Preferred silicates are layered silicates. Preferred plastic pigments are spherical, preferably hollow spheres. Preferred binders are selected from styrene-butadiene, acrylates, acrylonitrile, starch, and polyvinyl alcohol, or a combination of at least two of these, preferably acrylates. The preferred starch is selected from cationic modified starch, anionic modified starch, and fragmented starch, or a combination of at least two of these. The preferred additive is selected from rheology modifiers, opaque dyes, fluorescent whitening agents, carriers, flocculants, deaerators, and surface energy modifiers, or a combination of at least two of these. The preferred deaerator is a coating color deaerator, preferably based on organosilicon, fatty acids, or both. The preferred surface energy modifier is a surfactant.

[0219] Fiber materials

[0220] Here, the terms "fibrous material" and "fibre-containing material" are synonymous and include any material or layer comprising multiple fibers, such as a preferred carrier layer. Therefore, a fibrous material comprises multiple fibers and preferably at least one additional component. A preferred additional component is a sizing agent. A preferred sublayer of the fibrous material comprises multiple fibers and at least one sizing agent.

[0221] fiber

[0222] The fibers in the fibrous material can be any fiber that a person skilled in the art would consider suitable for use according to the invention, particularly any fiber known in the manufacture of paper, cardboard, or paperboard. The fiber is a linear, longitudinally extended structure with a length-to-diameter or thickness ratio of at least 3:1. For some fibers, the aforementioned ratio is not greater than 100:1. For use in this document, long fibers have an average fiber length in the range of 3 to 4 mm, while short fibers have an average fiber length in the range of 0.4 to 2 mm.

[0223] Preferred fibers are plant fibers. Plant fibers are fibers derived from plants, that is, the general term for fibers obtained from plants. Plant fibers exist in plants as vascular bundles in stems or trunks, as bark (e.g., as bast fiber), and as seed appendages. According to DIN 60001-1: 2001-05 Textile fibre materials - Part 1: "Natural fibres and abbreviations", Beuth Verlag, Berlin 2001, page 2, they are further subdivided into seed fibers, bast fibers, and hard fibers, or according to DINEN ISO 6938: 2015-01 "Textiles - Natural fibres - Generic names and definitions", Beuth Verlag, Berlin 2015, page 4, they are further subdivided into seed fibers, bast fibers, leaf fibers, and fruit fibers, which thus constitutes a subdivision of hard fibers. In this invention, preferred plant fibers are primarily produced from tree wood. In this regard, the preferred wood is coniferous wood, i.e., wood from coniferous trees, or deciduous wood, i.e., wood from deciduous trees. In the case of coniferous wood, tracheids are preferred. In the case of deciduous wood, libriforms are preferred.

[0224] In this invention, preferred fibers comprise cellulose pulp or wood pulp, or both, and the fibers are preferably composed of these. Preferred wood pulp is selected from one of groundwood pulp, pressure groundwood pulp, and thermomechanical pulp (TMP), or a combination of at least two of these. Preferred thermomechanical pulp is chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP). In this case, the wood pulp is characterized by a higher lignin content compared to cellulose pulp, which can be detected by red staining with phloroglucin solution. In this invention, preferred fibers are obtained from wood selected from trees such as spruce, pine, birch, and eucalyptus, or a combination of at least two of these. The fibers in a plurality of fibers of a preferred fibrous material have at least one of the following properties:

[0225] A) An average fiber length in the range of 0.2 to 6 mm, preferably 0.2 to 4.5 mm, more preferably 0.5 to 4.0 mm, even more preferably 1.0 to 4.0 mm, still more preferably 2.0 to 4.0 mm, and most preferably 3.0 to 4.0 mm.

[0226] B) Coarseness in the range of 50 to 400 µg / m, preferably 100 to 300 µg / m, more preferably 120 to 300 µg / m, even more preferably 120 to 250 µg / m, and most preferably 130 to 200 µg / m.

[0227] C) An average wall thickness in the range of 2 to 10 µm, preferably 3 to 9 µm, more preferably 4 to 9 µm, even more preferably 5 to 8 µm, still more preferably 6 to 8 µm, and most preferably 6 to 7 µm.

[0228] D) The mean outer diameter is in the range of 10 to 50 µm, more preferably 10 to 45 µm, more preferably 20 to 45 µm, more preferably 25 to 45 µm, more preferably 30 to 45 µm, even more preferably 30 to 40 µm, and most preferably 32 to 40 µm.

[0229] Here, the properties at point A) above are particularly preferred.

[0230] Polyolefins

[0231] Preferred polyolefins are polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) or both. Preferred polyethylene is selected from one of LDPE, LLDPE, and HDPE, or a combination of at least two of them. Another preferred polyolefin is mPolyolefin (a polyolefin produced using a metallocene catalyst). Suitable polyethylene has a melt flow rate (MFI - Melt Flow Index = MFR - Melt Flow Rate) in the range of 1 to 25 g / 10 min, preferably in the range of 2 to 20 g / 10 min, particularly preferably in the range of 2.5 to 15 g / 10 min, and / or in the range of 0.910 g / cm³ to 0.935 g / cm³. 3 The density is preferably in the range of 0.912 g / cm³ to 0.932 g / cm³, and more preferably in the range of 0.915 g / cm³ to 0.930 g / cm³.

[0232] mPolymer

[0233] mPolymer is a polymer produced using a metallocene catalyst. Metallocenes are organometallic compounds in which a central metal atom is located between two organic ligands, such as a cyclopentadienyl ligand. Preferred mPolymers are mPolyolefin (m-polyolefin), preferably mPolyethylene (m-polyethylene) or mPolypropylene (m-polypropylene), or both. Preferred mPolyethylene is selected from one of mLDPE, mLLDPE, and mHDPE, or a combination of at least two of them. Preferred mPolyolefins are characterized by at least a first melting temperature and a second melting temperature. Preferably, mPolyolefins are characterized by a third melting temperature in addition to the first and second melting temperatures. Preferred first melting temperatures are in the range of 84 to 108°C, preferably 89 to 103°C, more preferably 94 to 98°C. Preferred second melting temperatures are in the range of 100 to 124°C, preferably 105 to 119°C, more preferably 110 to 114°C.

[0234] Adhesion / adhesion promoter layer

[0235] An adhesion promoter layer is a layer of a planar composite material comprising a sufficient amount of at least one adhesion promoter to improve adhesion between layers adjacent to it. For this purpose, the adhesion promoter layer preferably comprises an adhesion promoter polymer. Therefore, the adhesion promoter layer is preferably a polymer layer. The adhesion promoter layer may be located between layers of the planar composite material that are not directly adjacent to each other, preferably between a barrier layer and an inner polymer layer. Suitable adhesion promoters in the adhesion promoter layer are applicable to all plastics that produce strong bonds by forming ionic or covalent bonds with the surfaces of their respective adjacent layers through functionalization with suitable functional groups. Preferably, these are functionalized polyolefins, particularly acrylic copolymers obtained by copolymerizing ethylene with acrylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic acid, acrylates, acrylate derivatives, or carboxylic anhydrides with double bonds (e.g., maleic anhydride), or at least two of these. Polyethylene-maleic anhydride graft polymer (EMAH), ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer (EAA), or ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymer (EMAA) are preferred, for example, those produced by DuPont under the trade name Bynel. ® and Nucrel 0609HSA ® Or produced by ExxonMobile Chemicals under the trade name Escor 6000 ExCo ® sell.

[0236] Ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymers are also preferred as adhesion promoters. Preferred alkyl groups are methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, or pentyl. More preferably, the adhesion promoter layer may comprise a blend of two or more different ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymers. Also preferably, the ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymer may have two or more different alkyl groups in the acrylate functional group, for example, an ethylene-alkyl acrylate copolymer in which both methyl acrylate and ethyl acrylate units are present in the same copolymer.

[0237] According to the present invention, preferably, the adhesion between the carrier layer, polymer layer, or barrier layer and its respective next layer is at least 0.5 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 0.7 N / 15 mm, and particularly preferably at least 0.8 N / 15 mm. In one embodiment of the present invention, preferably, the adhesion between the polymer layer and the carrier layer is at least 0.3 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 0.5 N / 15 mm, and particularly preferably at least 0.7 N / 15 mm. Furthermore, preferably, the adhesion between the barrier layer and the polymer layer is at least 0.8 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 1.0 N / 15 mm, and particularly preferably at least 1.4 N / 15 mm. In the case where the barrier layer indirectly follows the polymer layer via an adhesion promoter layer, preferably, the adhesion between the barrier layer and the adhesion promoter layer is at least 1.8 N / 15 mm, preferably at least 2.2 N / 15 mm, and particularly preferably at least 2.8 N / 15 mm. In one implementation, the adhesion between the layers is so strong that adhesion tests result in tearing of the carrier layer, particularly when the cardboard is used as the carrier layer, leading to so-called cardboard fiber tearing.

[0238] Container precursor

[0239] The container precursor is the initial stage of the container, formed during the production of the (preferably hermetically sealed) container. In this case, the container precursor contains a planar composite material, preferably as a blank. This planar composite material can be unfolded or folded. Preferably, the container precursor consists of a blank. The preferred container precursor is cut to size and designed to produce a single (preferably hermetically sealed) container. The preferred container precursor cut to size and designed to produce a single container is also called a sleeve. Here, the sleeve comprises a folded planar composite material, preferably folded along at least two longitudinal creases, more preferably along four longitudinal creases. These longitudinal creases are preferably, but not necessarily, arranged and configured to form the longitudinal edges of the hermetically sealed container, which is at least partially formed by the container precursor. Furthermore, the sleeve includes a longitudinal seam along which a first longitudinal boundary of the blank joins to another longitudinal boundary. Here, the sleeve is open in the top and bottom regions. The preferred container precursor is integrally formed.

[0240] container

[0241] The closed container according to the invention is preferably a food container. Alternatively or further preferably, the closed container according to the invention is a dimensionally stable container. Alternatively or further preferably, the closed container according to the invention is a liquid-tight container. The container wall of the closed container according to the invention is therefore preferably dimensionally stable, i.e., it substantially maintains its shape during filling and operations for transport and storage. Preferably, the closed container according to the invention comprises an upright base and end portions opposite the upright base in the longitudinal direction of the closed container. Preferably, a central portion of the closed container is arranged between the upright base and the end portions. Preferably, the central portion is at least partially, preferably entirely, a substantially prism-shaped, preferably cuboid shape. Preferably, the end portions are at least partially substantially truncated pyramidal in shape. Preferably, the upright base is adjacent to the central portion. Alternatively or further preferably, the central portion is adjacent to the end portions. Preferably, the closed container according to the invention contains food. Preferably, the container wall is liquid-tight.

[0242] The container wall can be composed of different materials. It is conceivable that other elements besides planar composite materials, such as one or more non-planar components, can be used. Preferred non-planar components are molded components made of plastic. Such molded components can be used, particularly in end portions or upright bases, especially preferably in end portions. However, in any case, it is preferred that at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 80%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the container wall surface (outer surface) facing away from the container interior, be composed of planar composite materials.

[0243] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first portion of the container wall is formed of a planar composite material or a blank thereof; wherein another portion of the container wall is formed of a non-planar component; wherein the first portion and the other portion together form the container wall to close the sealed container. The first portion of the container wall is preferably cup-shaped. Preferably, the non-planar component defines the interior of the container in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container. Preferably, the non-planar component forms the upper side of the sealed container for this purpose. Preferably, the planar composite material or a blank thereof defines the interior of the container in the transverse direction or in a direction opposite to the longitudinal direction of the sealed container, or both.

[0244] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sealed container comprises a blank of a planar composite material and a non-planar component; wherein the planar composite material exhibits a greater bending stiffness when bent in a first composite direction than when bent in another composite direction perpendicular to the first composite direction; wherein the blank:

[0245] - Includes a first transverse margin and another transverse margin opposite to the first transverse margin in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container, and

[0246] - The first part that forms the container wall that surrounds the interior of the sealed container;

[0247] The non-planar component forms another portion of the container wall; wherein the other lateral boundary is joined to the non-planar component; wherein the edge of the other lateral boundary extends along its length for at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably 100% of the first composite direction at an angle within the range of ±30°, preferably ±25°, more preferably ±20°, more preferably ±15°, more preferably ±10°, more preferably ±5°, even more preferably ±3°, and most preferably 0°. Preferably, the other lateral boundary, preferably the edge of the other lateral boundary, surrounds the non-planar component, preferably surrounds the non-planar component along its entire perimeter. Preferably, the sealed container includes an upright base comprising the first lateral boundary, and an end portion comprising the other lateral boundary opposite to the upright base in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container. Preferably, the upright base is formed entirely from the blank.

[0248] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the end portion of the sealed container includes at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably 4, end side surfaces formed of the blank in a preferred planar shape, which are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the sealed container such that each end side surface forms an angle in the range of 55 to 70°, preferably 55 to 69°, more preferably 55 to 68°, more preferably 55 to 67°, more preferably 55 to 66°, more preferably 55 to 65°, more preferably 55 to 64°, more preferably 56 to 63°, more preferably 57 to 62°, more preferably 58 to 61°, even more preferably 58.5 to 60.0° relative to the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, preferably, the aforementioned angle is in the range of 56 to 70°, more preferably 57 to 70°, more preferably 58 to 70°, more preferably 59 to 70°, more preferably 60 to 70°, more preferably 61 to 70°, more preferably 62 to 69°, more preferably 63 to 68°, more preferably 64 to 67°, and even more preferably 65.0 to 66.0°.

[0249] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container has four longitudinal edges, each longitudinal edge of the sealed container extending along the length of the sealed container from the upright base to an end portion, wherein the sealed container, along its length between the upright base and the end portion, preferably continuously has a square cross-section at least in segments, wherein the shortest of the four longitudinal edges has a length l, wherein the ratio of the length l to the side length a of the square cross-section is in the range of 1.3 to 2.95, preferably 1.35 to 2.95, more preferably 1.38 to 2.8, and most preferably 1.39 to 2.8. The length l is the height of the sealed container excluding its end portion. Preferably, the four longitudinal edges have equal lengths. However, in principle, it is also possible, for example, that two longitudinal edges are shorter than the other two. In this case, the length l represents the shorter longitudinal edge.

[0250] Element other than the planar composite or blank / non-planar component

[0251] In principle, any element suitable in the context of this invention as perceived by those skilled in the art can be used as an element of a nonplanar composite material or preform. Preferred nonplanar composite material or preform elements are nonplanar components. This nonplanar component is three-dimensional, i.e., not planar or sheet-like. Preferred nonplanar components are molded components. Preferred molded components are injection-molded components. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the nonplanar composite material or preform element is made of plastic. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the nonplanar composite material or preform element is integrally molded. Preferably, the nonplanar composite material or preform element forms the top surface of the end portion of a sealed container. A preferred top surface is the top surface of a truncated pyramid. Preferably, the nonplanar composite material or preform element forms another portion of the container wall of the sealed container, while the planar composite material or preform forms a first portion of the container wall of the sealed container.

[0252] Preferably, the non-planar composite material or blank element includes a base member and a nozzle disposed on the base member. The nozzle is an assembly whose shape is designed to facilitate directional pouring of liquid. Preferably, the nozzle is in the form of a tube. Preferably, the tube includes threads on its outer side. Preferably, the nozzle has a pouring orifice closed by a closure element. Preferably, the closure element is planar. Preferably, the planar closure element is a laminated material or foil. Preferably, the foil is a plastic foil. Here, the base member preferably includes a base plate, and at least 3, preferably 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably exactly 4 sidewalls; the nozzle is disposed on a first side of the base plate; the sidewalls are disposed on the other side of the base plate opposite to the first side. Preferably, the other side of the base plate in the sealed container faces the interior of the container, while the first side of the base plate in the sealed container faces away from the interior of the container. The base plate preferably has a polygonal bottom surface. The polygon here is preferably a regular polygon. Alternatively or preferably, the polygon has 3 to 12, more preferably 3 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, even more preferably 3 or 4, and most preferably exactly 4 corners. A preferred polygon with 4 corners is a rectangle. A preferred rectangle is a square. Preferably, the sidewalls of the base member have the same number of corners as the polygon. Preferably, every two sidewalls of the non-planar composite material or blank element that meet each other in the circumferential direction are adjacent to each other to form the side of the base member. Preferably, the base member and the nozzle are integrally formed. Preferably, the non-planar composite material or blank element is integrally molded.

[0253] Preferably, planar composite material or blanks and non-planar composite material or blanks are glued or sealed together, or both. Preferably, the other lateral boundary of the blank is glued and / or sealed to the non-planar composite material or blank element. Preferably, the planar composite material or blank is joined to one of the sidewalls of the non-planar composite material or blank element, preferably each sidewall, preferably directly joined. The preferred non-planar composite material or blank element (preferably a nozzle) includes threads. The pouring orifice of the nozzle is preferably closed. Preferably, an opening aid is arranged in the nozzle. In this case, the sealed container preferably also includes an opening aid. The preferred opening aid is a cutting aid or a tearing aid, or both. Alternatively or additionally preferably, the opening aid is annular. The preferred annular cutting aid is a cutting ring. The preferred annular tearing aid is a tearing ring. A cap, preferably a screw cap, is preferably arranged on the non-planar composite material or blank element so that the pouring orifice of the nozzle is covered by the cap. Preferably, the cap is screwed onto the nozzle. In this case, the sealed container preferably also includes a cap.

[0254] Joining

[0255] In the context of this invention, any joining method that appears suitable for use according to the invention and from which a sufficiently strong connection can be obtained can be considered by those skilled in the art. Preferred joining methods are material-to-material joining methods. A material-to-material joint is understood herein as a joint between joining partners formed by attractive forces between or within materials. It must be distinguished from shape-fit and friction-fit joints, particularly those formed by geometry or friction. Preferred material-to-material joining methods may be one selected from sealing, welding, gluing, and pressing, or a combination of at least two of these. In the case of sealing and welding, the joint is formed by means of a liquid and its curing. In the case of gluing, chemical bonds are formed between the surfaces of the two objects to be joined, thus forming the joint. In the case of sealing, welding, or gluing, it is generally advantageous to press the surfaces to be joined together. The preferred pressing of the two layers involves pressing at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 40%, more preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80%, even more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, of the respective first surface of the first layer onto the second surface of the second layer facing the first surface. A particularly preferred joint is a seal or weld. A preferred seal or weld includes contact, heating, and pressing as steps, wherein these steps are preferably performed in this order. Another order is also possible, particularly the order of heating, contact, and pressing.

[0256] Preferred heating involves heating the polymer layer, preferably the thermoplastic layer, more preferably the polyethylene layer or the polypropylene layer, or both. Another preferred heating method is to heat the polyethylene layer to a temperature of 80 to 140°C, more preferably 90 to 130°C, and most preferably 100 to 120°C. Another preferred heating method is to heat the polypropylene layer to a temperature of 120 to 200°C, more preferably 130 to 180°C, and most preferably 140 to 170°C. Another preferred heating method is to heat to the sealing temperature of the polymer layer. Further preferred heating involves heating the non-planar composite material or blank element, preferably a non-planar component, more preferably at least one sidewall of the base member, preferably to a temperature higher than the melting temperature of the first polymer composition. Preferred heating can be performed by friction, by radiation, by hot gas, by hit-solid contact, by mechanical vibration (preferably by ultrasound), by convection, or by a combination of at least two of these methods.

[0257] Extruder

[0258] In this invention, various extruders known to those skilled in the art and appearing suitable for the purposes of the invention are considered. An extruder is an apparatus for shaping a material (preferably a polymer material) by extrusion through a forming orifice. A preferred extruder is a screw extruder. Melt extrusion coating applies a material to a substrate by extruding a melt of the material through a forming orifice of an extruder to obtain a planar layer of the material superimposed on the substrate. When a polymer composition is used as the material, it is preferable to melt the material for extrusion coating. During extrusion, the polymer is typically heated to a temperature of 210 to 350°C, measured at the molten polymer film below the exit at the extruder die. Extrusion can be performed using commercially available extrusion tools known to those skilled in the art, such as extruders, extruder screws, feed blocks, etc. An orifice is preferably present at the end of the extruder through which the polymer melt is extruded. The orifice can have any shape capable of extruding the polymer melt. For example, the orifice can be angular, elliptical, or circular. Preferably, the orifice has the shape of a slot of a funnel. After the molten layer is applied to the substrate using the method described above, it is allowed to cool for heat setting. This cooling is preferably achieved by contacting the molten layer with a surface maintained at a temperature of 5 to 50°C, more preferably 10 to 30°C, for quenching. Subsequently, at least the flanks are separated from the surface. Separation can be performed in any manner familiar to a technician and seemingly suitable for rapid, as accurate as possible, and clean separation of the flanks. Preferably, separation is performed using a knife, a laser beam, or a water jet, or a combination of two or more of these methods, with a knife, particularly a pot knife, being particularly preferred.

[0259] Laminating

[0260] According to the present invention, the superposition of the carrier layer and the barrier layer can be achieved by lamination. In this case, the pre-fabricated carrier layer and barrier layer are bonded by means of a suitable laminating agent. Preferred laminating agents comprise, are preferably composed of, intermediate polymer compositions, and preferably obtain the intermediate polymer layer therefrom.

[0261] food

[0262] All food products known to those skilled in the art for human consumption, as well as animal feed, can be considered food. Preferred foods are liquids at temperatures above 5°C, such as dairy products, soups, sauces, and preferably non-carbonated beverages.

[0263] Edges

[0264] An edge is defined herein as a linear region of the container wall of the container according to the invention (which is formed by folding a planar composite material or blank, and in each case two (preferably flat) regions of the planar composite material or blank are adjacent to each other here) and an edge that defines the blank size. The first mentioned edge is a folded edge. These include the side edges of the end portions of the container according to the invention and their longitudinal edges. The second mentioned edge is a cut edge. These specifically include the edges of the other transverse boundary. The term "cut edge" in this document does not necessarily mean that the blank has been separated from the planar composite material by cutting. Rather, for example, the blank may also be stamped out from the laminate.

[0265] direction

[0266] The longitudinal direction of the sealed container extends from the upright base to the end portion. Here, the longitudinal direction extends along a straight line. Preferably, the longitudinal direction of the sealed container extends along the height of the sealed container. The circumferential direction of the sealed container is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Since the circumferential direction extends along the perimeter of the sealed container, it does not follow a straight line. The planar composite material and the blank have directions corresponding to the longitudinal and circumferential directions of the sealed container. On the planar composite material and the blank, the longitudinal and circumferential directions are still perpendicular to each other, but here both directions extend along a straight line located in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material or the blank. On the planar composite material and on the blank, the longitudinal direction preferably extends along a longitudinal groove, that is, along the groove of the at least one plurality of grooves (along which the longitudinal edge of the sealed container extends).

[0267] The first composite direction and the further composite direction are perpendicular to each other. Both composite directions lie within the plane of planar extension of the planar composite material or blank. The plane of planar extension of the planar composite material or blank is not necessarily a plane in Cartesian coordinates. In particular, if the planar composite material or blank is bent or folded, the plane follows such bending or folding. This is especially true when the planar composite material or blank is part of a hermetically sealed container according to the invention.

[0268] The planar extension of a planar composite material or blank is not necessarily planar in Cartesian coordinates. In particular, if the planar composite material or blank is bent or folded, the plane follows such bending or folding. This is especially true when the planar composite material or blank is part of a closed container.

[0269] The longitudinal direction of the non-planar composite material or blank element extends in a straight line from the base element to the nozzle. Preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar composite material or blank element extends along the height of the non-planar composite material or blank element. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar composite material or blank element extends along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle. Additionally or alternatively preferably, the longitudinal direction of the non-planar composite material or blank element is perpendicular to the base plate. The circumferential direction of the non-planar composite material or blank element is perpendicular to its longitudinal direction. Since the circumferential direction extends along the perimeter of the non-planar composite material or blank element, it does not follow a straight line. Preferably, in the sealed container according to the invention, the longitudinal directions of the sealed container and the non-planar composite material or blank element are the same. Additionally or alternatively preferably, in the sealed container according to the invention, the circumferential directions of the sealed container and the non-planar composite material or blank element are the same.

[0270] Methods and Steps

[0271] The method steps according to the invention are performed in the order of their symbols. In principle, method steps with consecutive symbols can be performed one after another, simultaneously, or overlapping in time.

[0272] Colorant

[0273] Solid and liquid colorants known to those skilled in the art and suitable for use in this invention may be considered. According to DIN 55943:2001-10, colorant is a general term for all coloring substances, particularly dyes and pigments. Preferred colorants are pigments. Preferred pigments are organic pigments. Pigments of particular note in this invention are those described in DIN 55943:2001-10 and... Industrial Organic Pigments, Third Edition ". (Willy Herbst, KlausHunger Copyright © Those described in 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KgaA, Weinheim ISBN: 3-527-30576-9). Pigments are preferably colorants insoluble in the application medium. Dyes are preferably colorants soluble in the application medium.

[0274] Measurement methods

[0275] The following measurement methods are used within the scope of this invention. Unless otherwise stated, measurements are performed at an ambient temperature of 23°C, an ambient air pressure of 100 kPa (0.986 atm), and a relative humidity of 50%.

[0276] Separating individual layers

[0277] To inspect individual layers of a laminate, such as a barrier layer, first separate the layer to be inspected from the laminate as described below. Cut three sample sheets of the laminate to size. For this purpose, unless otherwise specified, use the folded and ungrooved areas of the laminate. Unless otherwise specified, the sample sheets should be 4 cm × 4 cm. If other dimensions of the layer to be inspected are necessary for the inspection, cut sample sheets large enough from the laminate. Place the sample sheets in an acetic acid bath heated to 60°C (30% acetic acid solution: 30% CHCOOH3, with the balance being H2O up to 100% by weight) for 30 minutes. This separates the layers from each other. Alternatively, if necessary, the layers can be carefully peeled off manually. If the desired layer cannot be peeled off well enough, use new sample sheets instead and treat them in an ethanol bath (99% ethanol) as described above. If there are carrier layer residues on the layer to be inspected (e.g., the outer polymer layer or the intermediate polymer layer), especially when the cardboard layer is used as the carrier layer, carefully remove them with a brush. From each of the three membranes thus prepared, a sample of sufficient size for testing (4 cm² unless otherwise specified) is cut out. These samples are then stored at 23°C for 4 hours and subsequently dried. The three samples can then be examined. Unless otherwise specified, the test results are the arithmetic mean of the results from the three samples.

[0278] MFR value

[0279] According to ISO 1133-1:2012, Method A (Method for determining mass, unless otherwise specified, at 190°C and 2.16 kg) measures the MFR value.

[0280] density

[0281] Density is measured according to ISO 1183-1:2013 standard.

[0282] Scott Bond value

[0283] Scott Bond value determined according to Tappi 569

[0284] Melting temperature

[0285] The melting temperature was determined using DSC method ISO 11357-1, -3. The apparatus was calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions using the following measurements:

[0286] - Temperature Indium - Onset Temperature.

[0287] - Heat of fusion indium.

[0288] - Temperature Zinc - Onset Temperature.

[0289] The recorded measurement curves may show multiple local maxima (melting peaks), i.e., multiple melting temperatures. If a melting temperature higher than a specific value is required in this document, this condition is met if one of the measured melting temperatures is higher than that value. When referring to the melting temperature of a polymer layer, polymer composition, or polymer in this document, unless otherwise stated, the highest melting temperature is always referred to in the case of multiple measured melting temperatures (melting peaks).

[0290] viscosity value of PA

[0291] The viscosity of PA is measured in 95% sulfuric acid according to standard DIN EN ISO 307 (2013).

[0292] Molecular weight distribution

[0293] Molecular weight distribution was determined by gel permeation chromatography using light scattering: ISO 16014-3 / -5 (2009-09).

[0294] Residual moisture content of cardboard

[0295] The residual moisture content of the cardboard is measured according to ISO 287:2009 standard.

[0296] oxygen permeability

[0297] Oxygen permeability was determined according to ASTM D3985-05 (2010). The layer thickness of the specimen was 90 µm ± 2 µm. The area of ​​the specimen was 50 cm². 2 Measurements were conducted at an ambient temperature of 23°C, an ambient air pressure of 100 kPa (0.986 atm), and a relative humidity of 50%. The testing instrument was an Ox-Tran 2 / 22 from Mocon, Neuwied, Germany.

[0298] Detection of colorants

[0299] According to " Industrial Organic Pigments, Third Edition ” (Willy Herbst, KlausHunger Copyright ©The method described in 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KgaA, Weinheim (ISBN: 3-527-30576-9) is used for the detection of organic colorants.

[0300] Adhesion

[0301] To determine the adhesion of two adjacent layers, they were fixed in a 90° peel test apparatus (e.g., from Instron). German rotating wheel fixture The sample is pre-cut into 15 mm wide strips on a rotating roller that rotates at 40 mm / min during the measurement process. On one side of the sample, the layers are separated from each other, and the separated ends are clamped in a vertically upward-facing traction device. The measuring device is attached to the traction device to determine the tension. As the roller rotates, the force required to separate the layers from each other is measured. This force corresponds to the adhesion between these layers and is given in N / 15 mm. Separation of individual layers can be performed, for example, mechanically, or through a specific pretreatment, such as immersing the sample in 30% acetic acid at 60°C for 3 minutes.

[0302] Bending stiffness

[0303] The following apparatus is used to determine the flexural stiffness of sheet materials, especially planar composite materials or cardboard:

[0304] - L&W Bending Tester Code 160, 977682, from Lorentzen & Wettre, Sweden.

[0305] - A stamping press for testing bending stiffness samples.

[0306] The material to be tested is acclimatized for 24 hours in a standard climate (23°C, 50% relative humidity). Measurements are also performed in the standard climate. Specimens with a width of 38.1 mm and a length of 69.85 mm are stamped from the material to be tested. In the case of rolls, specimens are taken at five locations distributed across the width of the web. In any case, for each bending direction of the material to be tested, two specimens with a length in the corresponding bending direction are stamped from the material at each sampling location. Specimens may be taken only from areas of the material to be tested that are neither grooved nor folded.

[0307] For each bending direction to be considered, the bending stiffness (in mN) of the outer side and the opposite inner side is determined. To do this, the specimen is placed in the bending stiffness tester with the side to be measured facing forward, and the measurement is started by pressing the green button. The same number of specimens are measured for each combination of bending direction and material side (outer or inner). A two-point bending test is performed using the bending stiffness measuring device. In this test, the specimen, held at one end, is deflected through a bending angle of 15° at its other end by the measuring edge. Here, the direction in which the material has bending stiffness, i.e., the bending direction, is the straight line connecting the two points where the bending force is applied to the specimen in the two-point bending test. In the case of the bending stiffness tester, this direction is the direction of the shortest straight line from the clamp to the measuring edge. In this direction, the specimen forms a curve during bending. Perpendicular to this direction, if the specimen bends far enough for this, a straight fold line will be formed. The free clamping length of the specimen is 50 mm. Each specimen can only be used for one measurement. It is not permitted to measure the outer and inner sides on the same specimen. The individual measurements are read from the display.

[0308] If multiple specimens are measured for each combination of bending direction and material side, the arithmetic mean of these specimens is calculated separately for each combination. This arithmetic mean is then used as the value for each combination of bending direction and material side. The bending stiffness in a particular bending direction is the geometric mean of the values ​​for the combination of this bending direction / outer side and this bending direction / inner side.

[0309] Liquid tightness

[0310] Crystal oil 60 from Shell Chemicals, containing methylene blue, was used as the test reagent for testing the liquid tightness of containers. To determine whether a particular container type was liquid-tight, 250 identical containers of that type were tested. Each of the 250 containers was cut circumferentially to obtain a first open cup-shaped container portion containing a sealed bottom and a second open cup-shaped container portion containing a sealed top. The first container portion with the bottom and the second container portion with the top were first emptied, and then filled with an amount of test reagent sufficient to completely cover the bottom of the corresponding cup-shaped container portion. The container portion was then stored for 24 hours. After the storage time, the outside of each container portion was visually inspected to see if the test reagent had turned blue due to leakage. If no more than one of the 500 container portions of the 250 identical containers exhibited this discoloration in this test, the containers were considered liquid-tight.

[0311] To compare the liquid tightness of the end portions of different container types, 1,000 identical containers are tested for each type. Here, a second-opening cup-shaped container portion with a top is prepared and filled with a certain amount of the test reagent as described above. This second container portion is then stored for 24 hours. After the storage time, the outside of each second container portion is visually inspected to see if the test reagent has caused a blue discoloration due to leakage. For each container type to be compared, the number of second container portions exhibiting a blue discoloration out of the 1,000 portions is counted. The fewer second container portions exhibiting a blue discoloration, the better the corresponding container type performs in terms of liquid tightness.

[0312] Angle (α) between grooves for steep edges

[0313] To determine the angle between a pair of steeply edged grooves in the plane of the planar extension of the planar composite material, the planar composite material is fixed flat on a sheet of white paper. For this purpose, the composite material can be bound to the paper. Then, the two grooves of the pair of steeply edged grooves are drawn in a straight line on the paper with a pencil, so that the extensions intersect. Now, a geometric set square is used to measure the angle between one groove and its extension on one side and the other groove and its extension on the other side.

[0314] To determine the aforementioned angles on the container front, first carefully and slowly loosen the sealing seams of the container front manually, especially its longitudinal seams, and unfold the planar composite material to make it flat. Then proceed as described above.

[0315] Angle (α) between steep edges

[0316] To determine the angle between the steepest edges of a pair of steepest edges on the end face of the sealed container, the sealed container is prepared as follows.

[0317] Open the container by making horizontal cuts through three of the four sides, below the (possibly truncated pyramid-shaped) end portion, and then empty it. Also, unfold the bottom of the container. To do this, first manually loosen the seal of the ears on the bottom. The seam sealing the bottom of the container has not yet been opened. Next, cut the container lengthwise with scissors. Make the cut on the side of the container opposite its longitudinal seam. This cut begins at the cut edge below the end portion obtained as described above. Cut towards the bottom of the container. This... Figure 18a As shown in the diagram. Then, slowly and manually loosen the seam at the bottom, from the inside out. This is in... Figure 18bThe sample obtained thus is shown in (). Figure 18c As shown in ), and also as Figure 18d As shown in the diagram, on the side opposite to the longitudinal seam, the end portion is longitudinally cut with scissors down to the non-planar composite material or blank component. Then, starting from this cut edge, the seam that joins the composite material to the component is slowly and manually untied. This is done in... Figure 18e As shown in the diagram. Now cut off the portion of the composite material below the end portion. The remaining sample is schematically shown. Figure 18f )middle.

[0318] Now fix the sample prepared as described above flat onto a sheet of white paper. For this, the composite material can be bound to the paper. Then, use a pencil to extend the two grooves on the steep sides of the paper in a straight line so that the extensions intersect. Now use a geometric set square to measure the angle formed by one groove and its extension on one side with the other groove and its extension on the other side. Figure 19 Display measurement setup.

[0319] Compression stability

[0320] For this test, five containers were manufactured and filled with water before sealing. This test was used to determine the stability of the containers to compression along their longitudinal axis and to evaluate the load-bearing capacity of filled containers under static storage conditions and dynamic transport conditions. Testing was conducted on each container according to DIN EN ISO 12048. The containers were previously stored according to DIN EN ISO 2233:2000. A TIRA test 28025 (Tira GmbH; EisfelderStrasse 23 / 25; 96528 Schalkau, Germany) with a force sensor of 1000 N was used as the measuring instrument. The average value of the maximum destructive load (load value) was determined. This describes the value that leads to container failure. The test setup is shown in the diagram. Figure 20 middle.

[0321] Grip stiffness

[0322] In this experiment, two inelastic plastic balls clamp a sealed container at opposing pressure points and apply a specified force to the container in the lateral direction. The distance (in mm) by which this force compresses the sealed container laterally is measured. This simulates the stiffness of the container during manual gripping.

[0323] The following tools are used in this experiment:

[0324] - TIRA test 28025 universal tensile testing machine with a force sensor of 1000 N (Tira GmbH; Eisfelder Strasse 23 / 25; 96528 Schalkau, Germany)

[0325] - XY coordinate workbench

[0326] - Non-elastic plastic ball with a diameter of 18 mm

[0327] This tensile testing machine is equipped with plastic balls. This test is always used to compare containers of the same weight and fill level. The testing setup is displayed... Figure 21 middle.

[0328] For each type of container to be inspected, 10 containers were tested. The grip stiffness relative to the total height of the sealed container was measured at the midpoint. Before measurement, the corresponding pressure points for the plastic balls to grip were marked on the outside of the container. The two pressure points were located on opposite sides of the container, laterally at the midpoint of their respective sides and at the midpoint of the container's total height. After marking the pressure points, the container was aligned between two inelastic plastic balls on the XY coordinate stage of a tensile testing machine. The container must not yet be in contact with the fixed plastic balls. The result of the grip stiffness test is the distance traveled when a force corresponding to 1.5 times the weight force of the sealed container is reached.

[0329] The angle (β) of the inclination of the head side surfaces to the height of the container.

[0330] To determine the tilt angle of the end face (the side of a truncated pyramid) of a container, fix one side of the container flat on a piece of white paper. Then, transfer a steep edge of the end face whose tilt angle is to be measured and the adjacent longitudinal edge of the container onto the paper using a pencil as a straight line. Now, use a geometric set square to measure the angle between the straight line representing the steep edge and the longitudinal edge on the paper. Repeat this measurement process for the other steep edge of the same end face. The tilt angle of the end face is then the average of the angles measured on the two steep edges.

[0331] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein the embodiments and drawings are not intended to limit the invention in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0332] Laminated material structure

[0333] In the embodiments (according to the present invention) and comparative examples (not according to the present invention), laminated materials having the layered structures shown in Table 1 below are used for container production.

[0334]

[0335] Table 1: Structure of the laminated materials in the examples and comparative examples

[0336] Laminate production

[0337] The laminates used in the examples and comparisons were produced using a melt extrusion coating production line from Davis Standard. Here, the extrusion temperature was in the range of approximately 280 to 330°C. In the first step, for each container to be produced, holes were made in the carrier layer, which was provided as a roll, and then an outer polymer layer was applied to the entire surface of the carrier layer by melt extrusion coating. Additionally, a barrier layer, along with an adhesion promoter layer and an intermediate polymer layer acting as a laminating agent, was applied to the entire surface of the carrier layer previously coated with the outer polymer layer. Subsequently, an inner polymer layer was extruded and coated onto the entire surface of the barrier layer. To apply the individual layers by melt extrusion coating, the polymer was melted in an extruder. When applying the polymer as a layer, the resulting melt was transferred via a feed block to a die and extruded onto the carrier layer.

[0338] Container production

[0339] A groove pattern is introduced onto the outside of the web-shaped laminate obtained as described above. Each groove pattern consists of multiple grooves having four longitudinal grooves of equal length. Furthermore, the grooved web-shaped laminate is divided into blanks for individual containers, each blank having one of the aforementioned holes and one of the groove patterns. By folding along the longitudinal grooves of the groove pattern of each blank and sealing the overlapping folded surfaces together, a sleeve-like container precursor is obtained from the blank.

[0340] A sealed container is produced from the container precursor obtained as described above. Within the scope of the comparative examples and embodiments, containers with a cuboid shape and containers having a cuboid-shaped body and truncated pyramidal end portions arranged thereon are produced. The latter container shape is substantially shown in Figure 11 Both container shapes have a square cross-section with a side length of a. For both container shapes, containers with side lengths of a = 67.5 mm and a = 47.5 mm are produced.

[0341] The following filling machines are used to produce various containers.

[0342]

[0343] Table 2: Filling machines used for comparative examples and embodiments

[0344] To produce a cuboid-shaped container without truncated pyramidal end portions, the sleeve-shaped container front is first folded into a cuboid shape, forming the bottom region through folding, which is then sealed by heat sealing with hot air. This creates a cup that is open at the top. The cup is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide. Water is then filled into the cup. The top region of the cup, containing the perforations, is sealed by folding and ultrasonic sealing. The end portions are then formed by folding to obtain a sealed cuboid-shaped container. Fold protrusions (called ears) are sealed to the container body with hot air. Opening aids are glued to the container in the perforated area.

[0345] To produce a cuboid-shaped container with truncated pyramidal end portions, the sleeve-shaped container front is first folded into a cuboid shape. Then, the truncated pyramidal end portions are folded and joined by heat sealing with hot air. Figure 7a) and 7b) The injection-molded part of the shape shown is used. During this process, folded protrusions (called ear-like structures) are sealed to the side surface of the end portion. The resulting container, with its bottom open, is sterilized with hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, water is filled into this open (inverted) container. The bottom region of the container is sealed by folding and ultrasonic sealing, thereby obtaining a cuboid-shaped sealed container with a truncated pyramidal end portion.

[0346] Evaluate

[0347] First, while keeping the side length *a* constant, the influence of the length *l* of the longitudinal edge of the container formed along the longitudinal groove on the basic usability of the container is investigated. The length *l* is determined as the length of the longitudinal groove in the groove pattern of the respective container. It represents the height of the container without any truncated pyramidal end portion. The table below summarizes the results for both containers with and without truncated pyramidal end portions under the consideration of two side lengths *a*. The data in Table 3 for containers with side length *a* = 67.5 mm therefore pertain to both containers with and without truncated pyramidal end portions. Similarly, the data for containers with side length *a* = 47.5 mm pertain to both containers with and without truncated pyramidal end portions.

[0348]

[0349] Table 3: The Influence of Container Body Height on Container Usage

[0350] A ratio l / a less than 1.3 was found to result in low capacity. A ratio l / a greater than 2.95 consistently had a negative impact on the container's upright stability, meaning the container tended to tip over easily. Containers with a ratio l / a in the range of 1.35 to 2.95 were consistently sufficiently stable and had adequate capacity. Within this range, with sufficient upright stability, a larger side length a allowed for a larger capacity. On the other hand, a smaller side length a achieved particularly good grip stiffness while maintaining sufficient upright stability. These containers were particularly easy to handle. Containers with a larger side length a were particularly suitable for stationary household use, while containers with a smaller side length a were particularly suitable for mobile use.

[0351] In the following text, we consider the compressive stability of the angle α for a sufficiently stable container and for the folded protrusion ( Figure 11 The sealing effect of 1106 (commonly referred to as an ear-like structure by those skilled in the art). Angle α is the angle formed by the grooves of the two steep sides of each side of the truncated pyramidal end portion. This angle is measured in the plane of the laminated material as described above before manufacturing the container. Containers with truncated pyramidal end portions to be considered here all have completely straight (i.e., non-curved) bottom edges of the end portions.

[0352] The results summarized in Table 4 show that containers with truncated pyramidal end portions according to the invention exhibit higher compressibility along their length than conventional rectangular containers without truncated pyramidal end portions. This makes such containers more suitable for stacking for transport. This facilitates more efficient transport of filled containers to retailers. Furthermore, the selection of angle α according to the invention improves the ear seal. Without the selection of angle α according to the invention, errors occur more frequently in the ear seal, resulting in inadequate ear attachment. This leads to production errors in the filling machine and consequently, production interruptions.

[0353]

[0354] Table 4: Effect of angle α on compression stability and ear seal

[0355] In a further embodiment, the effect of the curvature of the base edge of the truncated pyramidal end portion on the shelf life of the container and the sealing of the ear-shaped parts, as well as its effect on the aforementioned production process, is examined. For this purpose, a container with a truncated pyramidal end portion having a straight base edge is bent with the corresponding side surface of the base edge convex relative to the end portion (see...). Figure 11 This is compared to containers with truncated pyramidal end portions (see 1105). The angle β represents the inclination of the side surface of the truncated pyramidal end portion of the container relative to the container's longitudinal direction (height). Figure 8The angle (802) is always 55° here so that the influence of this angle on the inspection can be eliminated (see also Tables 6 and 7).

[0356]

[0357] Table 5: Effect of the curvature of the base of the truncated pyramidal end portion on shelf life and the sealing of the ear-shaped part.

[0358] Furthermore, consider the angle β at which the side surface of the truncated pyramidal end portion of the container is inclined relative to the longitudinal direction (height) of the container (see [reference]). Figure 8 The effect of 802) on the shelf life of containers. To this end, containers with truncated pyramidal end portions having curved base edges were manufactured according to Examples 19, 20, 23, and 24, thereby altering their angle β. It was found that angle β in the range of 55 to 70° was beneficial to the shelf life of the containers. Analysis of the containers showed that angle β outside the aforementioned range promoted the formation of so-called pockets, i.e., unsealed cavities, at the interface between the laminated material and the molded components in the end portions. Such cavities reduce the tightness of the end portions. This can be demonstrated by the aforementioned "liquid tightness" test. Furthermore, bacteria can increasingly survive and multiply in such cavities. Both reduced tightness and increased bacterial growth shorten the shelf life of the containers.

[0359]

[0360] Table 6: Effect of angle β on shelf life of containers with side length a = 67.5 mm

[0361]

[0362] Table 7: Effect of angle β on shelf life of container with side length a = 47.5 mm

[0363] In a further embodiment, the effect of the orientation of the carrier layer in the container on the shelf life of the container was investigated. As shown in Table 1, the carrier layer is made of cardboard. The latter is a material with an orientation direction. The cardboard fibers are primarily oriented in the machine direction (MD) of cardboard production. The flexural stiffness of the carrier layer and therefore the laminate containing it when bent in the orientation direction of the cardboard fibers is higher than that when bent perpendicular to them. More precisely, the flexural stiffness of the laminate when bent in the orientation direction has a maximum value related to the bending direction.

[0364] In the embodiments and comparative examples in Tables 3 to 7 above, the orientation direction of the carrier layer is always parallel to the container height. In the further embodiments below, consider a cuboid container with a truncated pyramidal end portion, wherein the main fiber direction of the carrier layer is perpendicular to or parallel to the orientation of the upper edge of the laminate. In this case, the upper edge of the laminate is the edge of the laminate extending around the molded part (see...). Figures 2 to 6 (and 216 in 11).

[0365]

[0366] Table 8: The effect of the orientation of the carrier layer in the container on its shelf life

[0367] Observations have shown that fiber orientation parallel to the upper edge of the laminate (i.e., perpendicular to the container height) has a beneficial effect on the container's shelf life. Specifically, it was found that when the fiber orientation is parallel to the upper edge of the laminate, the seal between the laminate and the molded components is tighter. This can be demonstrated by the aforementioned "liquid tightness" test. This may be because there is less cardboard dust on the sealing surface. This dust from inside the cardboard can also cause contamination inside the container. Reduced seal tightness between the laminate and the molded components, as well as dust contamination inside the container, negatively impacts the container's shelf life. Production tolerances for carrier layer orientation indicate that the fiber orientation does not need to be precisely parallel to the upper edge of the laminate to achieve a beneficial effect on shelf life.

[0368] In Tables 3 to 8 above:

[0369] "++++" indicates a more favorable result than "+++".

[0370] "+++" indicates a more favorable result than "++".

[0371] "++" indicates a more favorable result than "+".

[0372] A "+" sign indicates a more favorable outcome than a "0".

[0373] "0" indicates a more favorable result than "-", and

[0374] "-" indicates a more favorable outcome than "--".

[0375] Unless otherwise stated in the specification or the corresponding drawings, the drawings are shown schematically and not to scale:

[0376]

[0377] Figure 1A schematic top view of a planar composite material 100 according to the present invention is shown. The planar composite material 100 is a semi-endless roll, and only a section thereof may be shown here. The planar composite material 100 includes a first plurality of grooves 101 and more than 50 additional plurality of grooves 102.

[0378] Figure 2 This shows a schematic planar view of another planar composite material 100 according to the present invention. Figure 1 A blank 200 of a planar composite material 100. This blank 200 includes only a first plurality of grooves 101. These grooves are arranged and configured such that by folding the blank 200 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and joining portions of the blank 200, a [missing information] can be obtained. Figure 11The sealed container 1100 includes a first portion of the container wall 1101. This sealed container 1100 includes an upright base 1103 and an end portion 1102 opposite the upright base 1103 in a longitudinal direction 201 extending along the length of the sealed container 1100. Therefore, a first plurality of grooves 101 includes grooves 204 in a first transverse boundary 207 to form the upright base 1103, and grooves 203 in another transverse boundary 208 to form the end portion 1102. Furthermore, the first plurality of grooves 101 includes exactly four longitudinal grooves 213 for forming four longitudinal edges 1107 of the sealed container 1100. The sealed container 1100 includes four end-side surfaces 209 formed from a blank 200. The end-side surfaces 209 are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201 so that the sealed container 1100 gradually tapers in the end portion 1102. The four end side surfaces 209 together substantially form the side surfaces of the end portion 1102, which is substantially in the shape of a truncated pyramid with a square base. The four base edges 1105 of the truncated pyramid are convex relative to their respective end side surfaces 209 toward the upright base 1103. The first plurality of grooves 101 includes four corresponding grooves 212 for forming the four base edges 1105. The periphery of each of the four end side surfaces 209 is formed by corresponding plurality of sides of the end portion 1102. Each of these plurality of sides includes a pair of steep edges 1104 opposite each other in the circumferential direction 202 of the sealed container 1100 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 201. Each pair of steep edges 1104 is formed along a pair of grooves 210 of the first plurality of grooves 101. The grooves of each pair of grooves 210 extend relative to each other in the planar extension plane of the blank 200 at an angle 211 in the range of 40 to 60°. This angle 211 is also referred to herein as α. The blank 200 has a first longitudinal boundary 205, another longitudinal boundary 206 opposite to it in the circumferential direction 202, a first transverse boundary 207, and another transverse boundary 208 opposite to it in the longitudinal direction 201. The first longitudinal boundary 205, the other longitudinal boundary 206, the first transverse boundary 207, and the other transverse boundary 208 each include a cut edge of the blank 200. The planar composite material 100 has a greater bending stiffness when bent in the first composite direction 214 than when bent in the other composite direction 215 perpendicular to the first composite direction 214. The first composite direction 214 and the other composite direction 215 lie in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material 100. The other transverse boundary 208 is arranged and configured to provide a first portion of the end portion 1102 of the sealed container 1100 by folding the other transverse boundary 208 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and engaging portions of the other transverse boundary 208 with each other. Another lateral boundary 208 has an edge 216 that surrounds another portion of the end portion 1102 in the sealed container 1100. Edge 216 extends along its entire length parallel to the first compound direction 214 (see [link]). Figure 11 The first plurality of grooves 101 further includes four auxiliary grooves 217. Each auxiliary groove 217 is arranged next to one of the longitudinal grooves 213 in the first transverse boundary 207 such that the bending radius of the longitudinal fold along such longitudinal groove 213 is increased at least in the segment of the longitudinal fold. Furthermore, each auxiliary groove 217 bends away from its respective longitudinal groove 213. Additionally, each auxiliary groove 217 is arranged on the side of its respective longitudinal groove 213 facing away from the center of the blank 200 based on the circumferential direction 202. The formation of the upright base 1103 involves particularly severe folding of the blank 200. The aforementioned auxiliary grooves 217 reduce the mechanical stress on the blank 200 during the formation of the upright base 1103. This helps reduce the risk of leakage at the bottom of the sealed container 1100 and thus contributes to a longer shelf life.

[0379] Figure 3 show Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the blank 200.

[0380] Figure 4 A schematic top view of the container front 400 according to the invention is shown. This includes... Figure 2 The blank 200 has a first longitudinal fold 402 and another longitudinal fold 403, both along a longitudinal groove 213. The container front 400 is folded flat along these longitudinal folds. The first longitudinal boundary 205 and the other longitudinal boundary 206 of the blank 200 are sealed together to form a longitudinal seam 401 of the container front 400.

[0381] Figure 5 show Figure 4 Another schematic top view of the container front 400 according to the invention. Here, the container front 400, which continues to be folded flat, is visible from the side opposite to the longitudinal seam 401.

[0382] Figure 6 Showing the present invention Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the container precursor 400.

[0383] Figure 7a This is a schematic perspective view showing an element 701 of a non-planar composite material 100 or blank 200 together with a cap 707. This element 701 is a non-planar assembly, more specifically a molded assembly, which is formed... Figure 11 Another part of the container wall 1101 in the sealed container 1100, and Figure 2The blank 200 forms a first portion (which is an open cup-shaped container), thereby sealing the container. The other portion of the container wall 1101 is surrounded by the end portion 1102 of the sealed container 1100. Element 701 defines the interior of the container in the longitudinal direction 201 and forms the top surface of the end portion 1102, which is truncated pyramidal in shape. Element 701 is made of HDPE and includes a base member 702 and a nozzle 703 disposed thereon, the pouring hole of the nozzle 703 being closed by a cap 707. The cap 707 is screwed onto the nozzle 703. The cap 707 is also made of HDPE. The base member 702 includes a base plate 704 and exactly four side walls 705. The nozzle 703 is disposed on a first side of the base plate 704. The side walls 705 are disposed on the other side of the base plate 704 opposite to the first side. In each case, two side walls 705 are adjacent to each other to form a side edge 706 of the base member 702. Component 701 is integrally molded and can be obtained by injection molding.

[0384] Figure 7b )show Figure 7a A schematic top view of element 701 and cap 707.

[0385] Figure 8 show Figure 7a A schematic cross-sectional view of element 701 and cap 707 of the nozzle 703. Here, it can be seen that an opening aid 801 in the form of a cutting ring is arranged in the nozzle 703. The cutting ring is made of PP. Furthermore, element 701 here is engaged with... Figure 2 200 blanks, to form Figure 11 The sealed container 1100. It can be seen that the sidewall 705 of the element 701 and the end side surface 209 of the sealed container 1100 are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201, so that they form an angle 802 of 55 to 70° with respect to the longitudinal direction 201. This angle 802 is also referred to herein as β.

[0386] Figure 9a )show Figure 7a A schematic partial view of another cross-section of element 701 and cap 707.

[0387] Figure 9b )show Figure 9a A magnified view of the designated area.

[0388] Figure 10a The display shows the device with the opening aid 801. Figure 7a A schematic diagram of the cap 707.

[0389] Figure 10b (Showing information from...) Figure 10a A schematic diagram of the opening auxiliary component 801.

[0390] Figure 11 A schematic perspective view of a sealed container 1100 according to the present invention is shown. The sealed container 1100 includes a container wall 1101 surrounding the interior of the container. A first portion of the container wall 1101 is composed of... Figure 2 The blank 200 is formed. Another part of the container wall 1101 is made of... Figure 7a The blank 200 and the element 701 are formed. The blank 200 and the element 701 are joined together by heat sealing. The sealed container 1100 includes an upright base 1103 and an end portion 1102 opposite to the upright base 1103 in a longitudinal direction 201 extending along the length of the sealed container 1100. The end portion 1102 includes exactly four end side surfaces 209 formed by the blank 200, which are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 201 so that the sealed container 1100 tapers gradually in the longitudinal direction 201 within the end portion 1102. The periphery of each end side surface 209 is formed by a plurality of sides of the end portion 1102. Each of these plurality of sides includes a pair of steep edges 1104 opposite to each other in the circumferential direction 202 of the sealed container 1100 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 201. The steep edges of each pair of steep edges 1104 on each end side surface 209 extend relative to each other in the plane of their respective end side surface 209 at an angle ranging from 40 to 60°. This angle corresponds to Figure 2 Angle 211 in the middle, and can be as Figures 18a) to 18f) The measurements are shown in Figure 19. The sealed container 1100 has four longitudinal edges 1107. Each end facet 209 forms an angle 802 of 55 to 70° with respect to the longitudinal direction 201 (see Figure 19). Figure 8 The four end side surfaces 209 together substantially form the side surfaces of the end portion 1102, which is substantially the shape of a truncated pyramid with a square base. The four base edges 1105 of this truncated pyramid are convex relative to their respective end side surfaces 209 toward the upright base 1103. The folded protrusions 1106 (also referred to as ear-like structures 1106) are sealed to the end side surfaces 209 by a hot air seal. Figure 11 This shows a first portion of the end portion 1102 obtained by folding the blank 200 along the groove 203 of the first plurality of grooves 101 along another lateral boundary 208 and joining portions of the other lateral boundary 208 together. In the sealed container 1100, the edge 216 of the other lateral boundary 208 surrounds another portion of the end portion 1102. This other portion of the end portion 1102 is formed by element 701. The edge 216 extends parallel to the first composite direction 214 along its entire length.

[0391] Figures 12a) to 12d) Showing from Figure 11 The schematic side view of the sealed container 1100 of the present invention from all four sides. Figure 12cThe image shows the longitudinal joint 401 of the sealed container 1100.

[0392] Figure 13a (Showing information from...) Figure 11 A schematic top view of the sealed container 1100 according to the present invention.

[0393] Figure 13b ) shows the invention Figure 11 A schematic bottom view of a sealed container 1100.

[0394] Figure 14 A partial schematic diagram showing a cross-section of the planar composite material 100 according to the present invention is shown. The planar composite material 100 comprises the following layers as a stacked layer sequence in a direction from the outer side 1401 of the planar composite material 100 to the inner side 1402 of the planar composite material 100: an outer polymer layer 1403, a carrier layer 1404, an intermediate polymer layer 1405, an adhesion promoter layer 1406, a barrier layer 1407, and an inner polymer layer 1408. Figure 1 The planar composite material 100 has the aforementioned layered structure. Therefore, Figure 2 The blank 200 also has this layered structure. The carrier layer 1404 is composed of cardboard. The main fiber direction of the cardboard in the blank 200 extends approximately parallel to the edge 216 of another transverse boundary 208.

[0395] Figure 15 Production according to the present invention Figure 1 A flowchart of a method 1500 for producing a planar composite material 100. In method step a) 1501, a method is provided having... Figure 14 The planar composite precursor with a layered structure is shown. In method step b) 1502, a first plurality of grooves 101 and a further plurality of grooves 102 are slotted into the planar composite precursor.

[0396] Figure 16 Production according to the present invention Figure 4 The flowchart of method 1600 for container precursor 400. In method step a. 1601, the following is provided: Figure 2 The blank 200. In method step b. 1602, the blank 200 is folded along its longitudinal groove 213. In method step c. 1603, the first longitudinal boundary 205 and the other longitudinal boundary 206 are brought into contact with each other and joined together by heat sealing to obtain a longitudinal seam 401.

[0397] Figure 17 Production according to the present invention Figure 11 A flowchart of method 1700 for sealing container 1100. In method step A) 1701, firstly, a... Figure 4The container front 400 is then formed. Next, in method step B) 1702, the end portion 1102 is formed and closed by folding and joining the container front 400 to the element 701. In method step C) 1703, food is filled into the container front 400, which is open at the inverted bottom. Furthermore, in method step d) 1704, the upright base 1103 is formed and closed by folding the blank 200 along the grooves of the first plurality of grooves 101 and sealing portions of the blank 200 together to obtain a sealed container 1100.

[0398] Figures 18a) to 18f) This diagram shows the preparation of a sealed container 1100 for measuring the angle of a pair of steep sides 1104.

[0399] Figure 19 A diagram showing the test method used to determine the angle of a pair of steep sides 1104.

[0400] Figure 20 The test apparatus 2000 for determining the compressive stability of a sealed container 1100 is shown, which uses a TIRA test 28025 universal tensile testing machine with a force sensor of 1000 N as the measuring device 2001.

[0401] Figure 21 The test apparatus 2100 for determining the grip stiffness of a sealed container 1100 is shown, which uses a TIRA test 28025 universal tensile testing machine with a force sensor of 1000 N as the measuring device 2001. For this purpose, the tensile testing machine is equipped with two inelastic plastic balls 2101. The sealed container 1100 is positioned using an XY coordinate stage 2102.

[0402] Figure Labels

[0403]

[0404]

[0405]

Claims

1. A planar composite material (100) comprising the following layers as a stacked layer sequence in a direction from the outer side (1401) of the planar composite material (100) to the inner side (1402) of the planar composite material (100). a. Carrier layer (1404), b. Barrier layer (1407), and c. Inner polymer layer (1408); The planar composite material (100) includes at least a first plurality of grooves (101) arranged and configured such that at least a portion of the container wall (1101) of the sealed container (1100) can be obtained by folding the planar composite material (100) along the grooves in the first plurality of grooves (101) and joining portions of the planar composite material (100). The sealed container (1100) includes an upright base (1103) and an end portion (1102) opposite to the upright base (1103) in a longitudinal direction (201) extending along the length of the sealed container (1100). The end portion (1102) includes at least three end side surfaces (209) formed of the planar composite material (100), the end side surfaces (209) being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (201) so that the sealed container (1100) is at least segmentally tapered in the end portion (1102); The periphery of each end side surface (209) is formed by multiple sides of the end portion (1102); The plurality of sides each include a pair of steep sides (1104) facing each other in the circumferential direction (202) of the sealed container (1100) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (201); Each pair of steep edges (1104) is formed along one pair of grooves (210) in the first plurality of grooves (101); Its features are, The grooves in each pair of grooves (210) are located in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material (100) and extend relative to each other at an angle in the range of 40 to 60°.

2. The planar composite material (100) according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of sides includes a bottom edge (1105) that is convex toward an upright base (1103) relative to its periphery and formed by the end side surface (209) of the side.

3. The planar composite material (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the end side surface (209) together form the side surface of a truncated pyramid.

4. The planar composite material (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier layer (1404) comprises one selected from cardboard, paperboard and paper, or a combination of at least two of them.

5. The planar composite material (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least three end-side surfaces (209) formed by the planar composite material (100) are inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (201) of the sealed container (1100) such that each end-side surface (209) forms an angle of 55 to 70° relative to the longitudinal direction (201).

6. The planar composite material (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the planar composite material (100) is configured as a blank (200) for producing the sealed container (1100); The bending stiffness of the planar composite material (100) when bent in the first composite direction (214) is greater than the bending stiffness when bent in another composite direction (215) perpendicular to the first composite direction (214). The blank (200) includes a first transverse boundary (207) and another transverse boundary (208) opposite to the first transverse boundary (207) along the longitudinal direction (201); The other lateral boundary (208) is arranged and configured to provide a first portion of the end portion (1102) of the sealed container (1100) by folding the other lateral boundary (208) along the grooves in the first plurality of grooves (101) and joining portions of the other lateral boundary (208) to each other; The edge (216) of the other lateral boundary (208) surrounds another part of the end portion (1102); The edge (216) extends along at least 50% of its length around the first composite direction (214) at an angle within the range of ±30°.

7. A method (1500) for producing a planar composite material (100), comprising the following steps: a) Provide a planar composite precursor comprising a carrier layer (1404); and b) Introduce at least a first plurality of grooves (101) into the planar composite precursor; The grooves in the first plurality of grooves (101) are introduced such that at least a portion of the container wall (1101) of the sealed container (1100) can be obtained by folding the planar composite material (100) obtained from the planar composite material precursor along the grooves in the first plurality of grooves (101) and joining a portion of the planar composite material (100). The sealed container (1100) includes an upright base (1103) and an end portion (1102) opposite to the upright base (1103) in a longitudinal direction (201) extending along the length of the sealed container (1100). The end portion (1102) includes at least three end side surfaces (209) formed of the planar composite material (100), the end side surfaces (209) being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (201) so that the sealed container (1100) is at least segmentally tapered in the end portion (1102); The periphery of each end side surface (209) is formed by multiple sides of the end portion (1102); The plurality of sides each include a pair of steep sides (1104) facing each other in the circumferential direction (202) of the sealed container (1100) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (201); Each pair of steep edges (1104) is formed along one pair of grooves (210) in the first plurality of grooves (101); The feature is that the grooves in each pair of grooves (210) are located in the planar extension plane of the planar composite material (100) and extend relative to each other at an angle in the range of 40 to 60° in this planar extension plane.

8. A container precursor (400) comprising - The planar composite material (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or the planar composite material (100) obtained by the method (1500) according to claim 7, or - A blank (200) of one of the aforementioned planar composite materials (100) for the production of a sealed container (1100).

9. A sealed container (1100) comprising a container wall (1101) surrounding the interior of the container, said container wall (1101) being at least partially formed by: - The planar composite material (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or the planar composite material (100) obtained by the method (1500) according to claim 7, or - A blank (200) of one of the aforementioned planar composite materials (100) for the production of a sealed container (1100).

10. A sealed container (1100) comprising a container wall (1101) surrounding the interior of the container, said container wall (1101) being at least partially formed of a planar composite material (100); The planar composite material (100) comprises the following layers as a stack of layers in a direction from the outer side (1401) to the inner side (1402) of the planar composite material (100): a. Carrier layer (1404), b. Barrier layer (1407), and c. Inner polymer layer (1408); The sealed container (1100) includes an upright base (1103) and an end portion (1102) opposite to the upright base (1103) in a longitudinal direction (201) extending along the length of the sealed container (1100). The end portion (1102) includes at least three end side surfaces (209) formed of the planar composite material, the end side surfaces (209) being inclined relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (201) so that the sealed container (1100) gradually tapers in the end portion (1102) at least in segments; The periphery of each end side surface (209) is formed by multiple sides of the end portion (1102); The plurality of sides each include a pair of steep sides (1104) facing each other in the circumferential direction (202) of the sealed container (1100) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (201); Its features The steep edges of each pair of steep edges (1104) of each end side surface (209) lie in the plane of their respective end side surface (209) and extend relative to each other at an angle in the range of 40 to 60° in this plane of their respective end side surfaces.

11. The sealed container (1100) according to claim 9, wherein the first portion of the container wall (1101) is formed of the planar composite material (100) or the blank (200); Another portion of the container wall (1101) is formed from elements of a non-planar composite material (100) or the blank (200).

12. The sealed container (1100) according to claim 10, wherein the first portion of the container wall (1101) is formed of the planar composite material (100); Another portion of the container wall (1101) is formed of elements of a non-planar composite material (100).

13. The sealed container (1100) according to claim 11, wherein the non-planar composite material (100) or the blank (200) element is a non-planar component.

14. The sealed container (1100) according to claim 12, wherein the elements of the non-planar composite material (100) are non-planar components.

15. A method (1600) for manufacturing a container precursor, comprising the following method steps: a. Providing a planar composite material (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or a planar composite material (100) obtained by the method (1500) according to claim 7, or a blank (200) of any of the aforementioned planar composite material (100) for manufacturing a sealed container (1100), said planar composite material (100) or said blank (200) comprising a first longitudinal boundary (205) and another longitudinal boundary (206); b. Fold the planar composite material (100) or blank (200) along the grooves in the at least first plurality of grooves (101); and c. Make the first longitudinal boundary (205) contact and join with the other longitudinal boundary (206) to obtain a longitudinal seam (401).

16. A method (1700) for manufacturing a sealed container (1100), comprising the following steps: A) Provide a container precursor (400) as claimed in claim 8, or a container precursor (400) obtained by the method (1600) as claimed in claim 15; B) Forming and closing the end portion (1102) of the container precursor (400); C) Fill the container precursor (400) with food; and D) A sealed container (1100) is obtained by folding the planar composite material (100) or the blank (200) along the grooves in the at least first plurality of grooves (101) and joining portions of the planar composite material (100) or the blank (200) to each other to form and close the upright base (1103) of the container precursor (400).

17. The planar composite material (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or the planar composite material (100) obtained by the method (1500) according to claim 7, or the container precursor (400) according to claim 8, or the container precursor (400) obtained by the method (1600) according to claim 15, in each case for use in the production of food containers.

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