Domestic compostable bio-based beverage filter media

Abstract

The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filter media and systems / methods for making and using beverage filter media. More specifically, the present disclosure provides advantageous domestic compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and related methods of manufacture and use. The present disclosure advantageously provides a domestic compostable beverage filter medium comprising annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% by weight based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of from 5% to 35% by weight based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to beverage filtration media and systems / methods for making and using beverage filtration media, and more particularly, to home compostable bio-based beverage filtration media and related methods of making and using. Background Art

[0002] Generally, some beverage filtration media or the like are known. There is interest in improved beverage filtration media and related methods of manufacture and use.

[0003] The beverage filtration media, assemblies, and methods of the present disclosure address and / or overcome these and other inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filtration media and systems / methods for making and using beverage filtration media.

[0005] More specifically, the present disclosure provides advantageous home compostable bio-based beverage filtration media, and related methods of manufacture and use.

[0006] The above described and other features are exemplified by the following figures and detailed description.

[0007] Any combination or arrangement of the embodiments is contemplated. Other advantageous features, functions and applications of the beverage filtration media, assemblies and methods of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description, particularly when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. All references listed in this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The following drawings are of exemplary embodiments, wherein like elements are numbered alike.

[0009] Features and aspects of the implementations are described below with reference to the drawings, in which elements are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0010] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the various features, steps, and combinations of features / steps described below and shown in the accompanying drawings may be arranged and organized differently to produce embodiments that are still within the scope of the present disclosure. In order to assist one of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed beverage filtration media, assemblies, and methods, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a side perspective view of an exemplary beverage filtration media and beverage capsule according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2A and 2B is a side view of an exemplary beverage filtration media and beverage capsule according to the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2C is a top view of an exemplary beverage capsule according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3 is a side view of another exemplary beverage filtration media according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein illustrate the advantageous beverage filtration media, systems and methods / techniques thereof of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure, which may be implemented in various forms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein regarding the exemplary beverage filtration media and the associated methods / techniques of assembly and use should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to manufacture and use the advantageous beverage filtration media and / or alternative beverage filtration media of the present disclosure.

[0016] The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filtration media and systems / methods for making and using beverage filtration media.

[0017] More specifically, the present disclosure provides advantageous home compostable bio-based beverage filtration media, and related methods of manufacture and use.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a home compostable beverage filtration media suitable for beverage applications (eg, coffee filters or tea bag material).

[0019] In conventional practice, some beverage filtration media use a certain amount of non-biodegradable synthetic fibers (e.g., polypropylene or polyethylene) to allow heat sealing (e.g., sealing the media to itself to form a pouch for containing tea) or to allow attachment to a capsule (e.g., in coffee applications).

[0020] In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure advantageously provides a home compostable, bio-based beverage filtration media, wherein the beverage filtration media does not utilize synthetic fibers and is substantially entirely cellulose-based, and the beverage filtration media is capable of achieving a mechanical seal (e.g., by crimping) while providing the desired porosity in wet applications without structural collapse (e.g., as cellulose fibers tend to do when in wet form).

[0021] The present disclosure provides a beverage filter medium having sealing properties without the need for thermoplastic fibers. The beverage filter medium according to the present disclosure is also advantageously compostable, even in a home environment, as discussed further below. In an exemplary embodiment, the beverage filter medium according to the present disclosure can be used in a coffee capsule or as a tea bag without limitation.

[0022] It is noted that some conventional beverage filter media include synthetic thermoplastic fibers to impart heat-sealing properties. However, these fibers are not home compostable. For example, polypropylene fibers are used in some conventional tea bag and beverage capsule filters to provide heat-sealing properties. Tea bag and beverage capsule filters containing polypropylene are not compostable.

[0023] It is noted that replacing polypropylene with synthetic thermoplastic fibers with improved biodegradability, such as polylactic acid (PLA), etc., can make the filter compostable, but not compostable in a domestic environment.

[0024] Therefore, there is a need for a beverage filtration media that is compostable in a domestic environment without compromising the mechanical and / or flow properties of the beverage filtration media.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure advantageously provides a home compostable beverage filtration medium comprising annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 wt %, preferably 25 wt % to 60 wt %, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration medium, and 5 wt % to 35 wt % mercerized pulp fibers, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0026] In particular, it is worth noting that mercerized pulp can be added to the fiber mix used to make beverage filtration media. Generally, mercerized pulp is made by subjecting pulp to a strong alkali treatment. The density of mercerized pulp is usually lower than the starting pulp. It is worth noting that the mercerization process causes the fibers to curl, resulting in a product with low density and high compressibility. These properties are advantageous in mechanical seals. Mercerization also reduces the overall crystallinity of the cellulose pulp. The residual lignin and hemicellulose are dissolved by the alkali solution, making the mercerized pulp softer and less hard.

[0027] The present disclosure also advantageously provides a method for making a home compostable beverage filter medium, which includes providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight percent, preferably 25 weight percent to 60 weight percent, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and providing mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of 5 weight percent to 35 weight percent based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and making the home compostable beverage filter medium by a wet-laid web process. The use of mercerized pulp and annual plant fibers can produce a synergistic effect. It has been found that mercerized pulp tends to reduce mechanical strength. The addition of annual plant fibers makes it possible to maintain sufficient strength and also opens up the structure of the filter medium structure.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the beverage filtration media is at least 90% biodegradable in a home compost.

[0029] For example, the domestic compostable filter media according to the present disclosure meet the European standard EN 13432 (which outlines the different requirements that a material must meet to be considered industrially compostable), and in addition meet the following requirements: (i) in a biodegradation test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C (preferably about 28°C), the test material must achieve at least 90% w / w (dry weight) biodegradation within 12 months or less (absolute or relative - microcrystalline cellulose powder is used as a reference); and (ii) in a disintegration test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C (preferably about 28°C), the test material must achieve at least 90% w / w (dry weight) disintegration within 6 months or less, in other words, no more than 10% w / w (dry weight) of the original dry weight of the test material must not pass through a 2 mm fraction sieve.

[0030] The compressibility index of the home compostable beverage filter media of the present invention may be between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

[0031] As used herein, the compressibility index is defined as the ratio of the amount of mercerized pulp fibers to the basis weight of the beverage filtration media multiplied by one hundred. The amount of mercerized pulp is expressed in weight % based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration media. The basis weight is expressed in grams per square meter (gsm). For example, a beverage filtration media containing 5 wt% mercerized pulp and having a basis weight of 37 g / m 2 The compression index of the sample is 0.14.

[0032] The beverage filter media of the present disclosure may have a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm. In some embodiments, the beverage filter media may have a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm (e.g., to avoid leakage (screening) of coffee or tea particles). In certain embodiments, the beverage filter media may have a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, and more preferably less than 160 μm.

[0033] The home compostable beverage filter media of the present invention may have a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm.

[0034] Beverage filtration media may have a viscosity between 0.13 and 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 Density within the range.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the mercerized pulp fibers of the beverage filter media are HPZ grade mercerized pulp fibers. The home compostable beverage filter media may include mercerized pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably 23% to 35%. The curl index (%) is measured using a Morfi Neo analyzer from Techpap. The calculation of the curl index is defined in the publication "The use of MorFi analyser to characterise mechanical pulps" June 2003 Conference: International Mechanical Pulping Conference At: Québec City, Canada Volume: Vol. 1, pp. 225-232.

[0036] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filtration medium comprising natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably 23% to 35%, and annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% by weight, preferably 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0037] The beverage filtration media may be a wet-laid beverage filtration media.

[0038] The softwood fibers may be present in an amount of 0 wt % to 30 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0039] In some embodiments, the mercerized pulp fibers may be present in an amount of 20 wt % to 30 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0040] The beverage filter media may have a dry tensile strength of 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m, and / or may have a wet tensile strength of 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m (eg, to prevent the beverage filter from disintegrating during use).

[0041] In some embodiments, the total basis weight of the beverage filtration media is about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm. In certain embodiments, the beverage filtration media may have a thickness of about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0042] like Figure 1 and Figures 2A-2CAs shown, the beverage filter medium 10 can be configured to be attached or sealed to the edge 18 of the beverage capsule 12 by mechanical means (e.g., crimping, etc.), and the capsule 12 generally has a cover 14. In certain embodiments, the beverage capsule 12 can contain coffee 16, and the beverage capsule 12 can be used in a single-serving beverage machine. In some embodiments, the air permeability of the beverage filter medium 10 can be about 300 to 850 L / m 2 / s (for example, in order to maintain good liquid flow to obtain a favorable penetration time). The air permeability can be used as a predictor of liquid flow. For the filter medium 10 of the present disclosure, when the air permeability is within this range, satisfactory liquid flow is observed.

[0043] like Figure 1 and Figures 2A-2C As shown, the beverage capsule 12 includes a capsule body 13 having an edge 18, coffee 16 or the like is configured to be contained in the capsule body 13, and a cover 14 and a filter medium 10 are configured to be assembled together. Figure 1 and Figures 2A-2C , the A and B directions / arrows represent the sealing forces applied to seal the capsule 12 together (eg, the beverage filter medium 10 is attached or sealed to the edge 18 of the beverage capsule 12 and the cover 14 is attached or mounted relative to the filter medium 10).

[0044] Figure 2A and 2B is a side view of an exemplary beverage filtration media 10 and beverage capsule 12 according to the present disclosure. Figure 2C is a top view of an exemplary beverage capsule 12 according to the present disclosure.

[0045] In other embodiments, the mercerized pulp fibers can be present in an amount of 5 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration medium. The beverage filtration medium can have a dry tensile strength of 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m, and / or a wet tensile strength of 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m (e.g., for tea bag applications).

[0046] In certain embodiments, the beverage filtration media has a total basis weight of about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm. In some embodiments, the beverage filtration media may have a thickness of about 30 μm to about 60 μm.

[0047] The beverage filter media can be configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material. The tea bag can contain tea, etc. In certain embodiments, the air permeability of the beverage filter media can be about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0048] The present disclosure is further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

[0049] Example

[0050] Example 1 - Beverage capsule:

[0051] Different samples were prepared by wet-laid process with a basis weight of 37 g / m 2 . The fiber mixture also contained about 0.7 wt % of a wet strength agent (e.g., Kymene). The samples were further subjected to a 3 wt % size press treatment using a CMC / wet strength agent mixture (9 / 1 ratio). Samples C1 and C2 contained varying amounts of rayon but no mercerizing pulp. Samples 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5 contained 5, 10, 20, 25, and 35 wt % mercerizing pulp, respectively. In addition, samples 1.8 and 1.9 included 25 wt % mercerizing pulp and did not contain annual plant fibers. Table 1 summarizes some of the example compositions tested.

[0052] Table 1 : Sample composition:

[0053]

[0054] After drying, various physical properties of the samples were measured and are summarized in Table 2 below.

[0055] Table 2 : Physical properties:

[0056]

[0057] To evaluate the sealing performance of the different samples, the samples were attached to the beverage capsule by the hot clamping method. The seal quality was visually inspected and scored as shown in Table 2. The addition of mercerized pulp to the fiber mix improved the sealing performance. This was surprising because samples 1.1 to 1.5 did not contain any synthetic thermoplastic fibers, but especially the seals obtained with samples 1.3 to 1.5 were satisfactory. To the best of the knowledge, this is the first time that a completely cellulose-based beverage filter medium has been attached to a beverage capsule without the need for an additional adhesive.

[0058] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of mercerizing pulp increases the bulk of the beverage filtration media, which can therefore be more compressed.

[0059] It was also noted that the addition of mercerized pulp improved the permeability of the beverage filtration media. The TexTest air permeability of samples 1.3 and 1.4 was higher than that of the other samples. It was also noted that the addition of mercerized pulp had no significant adverse effect on the mechanical properties (see Table 2 for tensile measurements). However, increasing the amount of mercerized pulp above a certain threshold seemed to reduce the TexTest air permeability, and the pore structure seemed to collapse slightly. The MFP diameter of sample 1.3 was lower than that of sample 1.4, which had a lower mercerized pulp content.

[0060] In order to maintain the mechanical properties of the filter media, it may be necessary to add annual plant fibers. The compositions of samples 1.6 and 1.7 are summarized in Table 3. Similarly, after drying, different physical properties of the samples were measured and summarized in Table 4 below. The data show that samples without annual plants may have poor mechanical properties. In the absence of annual plant fibers, the TexTest air permeability values ​​are also reduced. Sample 1.6 containing rayon has better permeability, but the mechanical properties are still low. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that annual plant fibers maintain the internal cohesion of the filter and prevent the filter media from collapsing.

[0061] Table 3 : Sample composition

[0062] Sample 1.6 Sample 1.7 Sample 1.4 Softwood Pulp 60％ 75％ 10％ Annual plant pulp 0％ 0％ 40％ Rayon 1.7 dtex x 8mm 15％ 0％ 25％ Mercerized pulp 25％ 25％ 25％

[0063] Table 4 : Physical properties

[0064]

[0065] Example 2-Tea bag application:

[0066] Similar to the beverage capsule application, different samples were prepared by wet-laid process with a basis weight of 13 g / m 2 The fiber mixture also contained about 0.7 wt% of a wet strength agent (e.g., Kymene). The samples were further subjected to a 3 wt% size press treatment using a CMC / wet strength agent mixture (9 / 1 ratio). Samples 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, and 2.5 contained 5, 10, 15, and 25 wt% mercerizing pulp, respectively.

[0067] Table 5 : Sample composition:

[0068] Sample 2.1 Sample 2.2 Sample 2.3 Sample 2.4 Sample 2.5 Softwood Pulp 29％ 29％ 29％ 29％ 29％ Hardwood pulp 27％ 22％ 17％ 12％ 2％ Annual plant pulp 44％ 44％ 44％ 44％ 44％ Mercerized pulp - 5％ 10％ 15％ 25％

[0069] After drying, various physical properties of the samples were measured and are summarized in Table 6 below.

[0070] Table 6 : Physical properties:

[0071]

[0072] To evaluate the sealing properties of the different samples, the samples were attached to themselves by crimping (see Figure 3 —Example tea bag filter media 100 is shown). The seal quality was visually inspected and scored as shown above in Table 6. Adding mercerizing pulp to the fiber mix improved the seal quality.

[0073] Again without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of the mercerizing paste increases the bulk of the sample, so that it can be compressed more. This in turn improves the quality of the seal.

[0074] Furthermore, the data shows that the addition of mercerized pulp increases the TextTest of the filter media, and it is noted that this correlates with the steeping of the tea, in fact the higher the TextTest value, the better the tea steeping. Thus, the filter media 100 according to the present disclosure used as a tea bag 100 can improve the steeping of tea.

[0075] However, it is noted that at this basis weight (e.g., about 13 g / m 2 ), increasing the amount of mercerizing pulp will reduce the dry tensile strength. Therefore, a good compromise between improved sealing quality and mechanical properties is at about 13 g / m 2 The mercerized pulp content is between 5 and 10 wt%.

[0076] The test method disclosed in this disclosure:

[0077] Basis weight: (g / m 2 )ISO 536-2012.

[0078] Thickness: (μm) ISO 534:2005 (Instrument: Micrometer MI20).

[0079] Density: (cm 3 / g)ISO 534:2011.

[0080] Pore ​​size: (μm) Porolux 1000.

[0081] Tensile strength: (kN / m) ISO 1924-2 (15mm-180mm-25mm / min between jaws).

[0082] Curl: A specific tool designed for this disclosure.

[0083] Tear: (mN) ISO 1974-2012 (E) 4-ply - (Instrument: Lorentzen SE009).

[0084] Burst: (kPa) ISO 2758 (Instrument: Eclatometer EM50).

[0085] Air permeability: (L / m 2 / s)ISO 9237:1995 (Instrument: Textest FX3300 / pressure used 200Pa).

[0086] The present disclosure also includes the following aspects.

[0087] The present disclosure provides a home compostable beverage filtration media comprising mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of 5 to 35 weight percent, and annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight percent, preferably 25 to 60 weight percent, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0088] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a mean flow pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium beverage, wherein the beverage filter medium has a density of 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0089] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium composts according to the European standard EN 13432 for industrial compostability and further complies with the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test conducted at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the tested material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test conducted at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the tested material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0090] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the mercerized pulp fiber has a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably 23 to 35%. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is a wet-laid nonwoven. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the compression index is 0.3 to 0.9, preferably 0.35 to 0.85.

[0091] The present disclosure also provides a kind of home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein cork fiber can be present in an amount of 0 weight % to 35 weight % based on the total weight of fiber in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a kind of home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule. The present disclosure also provides a kind of home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage capsule holds coffee and the beverage capsule is used for a single-serving beverage machine. The present disclosure also provides a kind of home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40gsm, preferably about 37gsm.

[0092] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers may be present in an amount of 15% to 35% by weight, preferably 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the dry tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the wet tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter medium is about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0093] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, and more preferably less than 160 μm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is attached to or sealed to a beverage capsule by a mechanical method such as crimping. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein man-made cellulose fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, may be present in an amount of 10 wt % to 30 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter medium.

[0094] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable materials. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17gsm, preferably about 13gsm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the mercerized pulp fiber can be present in an amount of 5% to 15% by weight based on the total weight of the fiber in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the dry tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 0.30 to 0.95kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90kN / m.

[0095] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the wet tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter medium is about 30 μm to about 65 μm. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material. The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0096] The present disclosure also provides a home compostable beverage filter medium, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter medium is about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, which includes natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably 23% to 35%, and annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% by weight, preferably 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is home compostable. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm.

[0097] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the density of the beverage filter medium is between 0.13 and 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0098] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium composts according to European standard EN 13432 and further complies with the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test conducted at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test conducted at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0099] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the natural cellulose pulp fiber with a curl index of at least 20% is a mercerized pulp. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is a wet-laid nonwoven. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the compression index is 0.3 to 0.9, preferably 0.35 to 0.85.

[0100] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the cork fiber can be present in an amount of 0% to 35% by weight based on the total weight of the fiber in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee and the beverage capsule is used for a single-serving beverage machine. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40gsm, preferably about 37gsm.

[0101] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in an amount of 15% to 35% by weight, preferably 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the dry tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the wet tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter medium is about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0102] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, and more preferably less than 160 μm. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is attached to or sealed to a beverage capsule by a mechanical method such as crimping. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter medium is about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filtration medium, wherein man-made cellulose fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, may be present in an amount of 10 wt % to 30 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0103] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable materials. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in an amount of 5% to 15% by weight based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the dry tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is from 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably from 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0104] The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the wet tensile strength of the beverage filter medium is 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter medium is about 30 μm to about 65 μm. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the tea bag contains tea. The present disclosure also provides a beverage filter medium, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter medium is about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0105] The present disclosure also provides a method for making a home compostable beverage filter medium, which includes providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight %, preferably 25 weight % to 60 weight %, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and providing mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of 5 weight % to 35 weight % based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and making the home compostable beverage filter medium by a wet-laid process.

[0106] The present disclosure also provides a method for making a beverage filter medium, which includes providing natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably 23% to 35%, and providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight %, preferably 25 weight % to 60 weight % based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and making a home compostable beverage filter medium by a wet-laid web process.

[0107] The present disclosure also includes the following aspects.

[0108] Aspect 1. A home compostable beverage filtration medium comprising mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of 5 wt% to 35 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium; and annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 wt%, preferably 25 wt% to 60 wt%.

[0109] Aspect 2. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to aspect 1, wherein the beverage filter medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm.

[0110] Aspect 3. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the beverage filter medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm.

[0111] Aspect 4. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the density of the beverage filter medium is between 0.13 and 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0112] Aspect 5. A domestic compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter medium composts according to European standard EN 13432 for industrial compostability and further complies with the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0113] Aspect 6. Home compostable beverage filter media according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter media has a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm.

[0114] Aspect 7. Home compostable beverage filtration media according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers have a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably from 23 to 35%.

[0115] Aspect 8. The home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filtration medium is a wet-laid nonwoven.

[0116] Aspect 9. Home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the compressibility index is from 0.3 to 0.9, preferably from 0.35 to 0.85.

[0117] Aspect 10. The home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the cork fibers are present in an amount of 0 wt % to 35 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0118] Aspect 11. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

[0119] Aspect 12. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee and the beverage capsule is for use in a single-serving beverage machine.

[0120] Aspect 13. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to aspect 11 or 12, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0121] Aspect 14. A home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in an amount of 15 wt % to 35 wt %, preferably 20 wt % to 30 wt %, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0122] Aspect 15. A home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

[0123] Aspect 16. Home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

[0124] Aspect 17. The home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0125] Aspect 18. Home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, more preferably less than 160 μm.

[0126] Aspect 19. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 12 to 18, wherein the beverage filter medium is attached to or sealed to the beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

[0127] Aspect 20. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the beverage filter medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s.

[0128] Aspect 21. A home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, are present in an amount of 10 wt% to 30 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0129] Aspect 22. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0130] Aspect 23. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

[0131] Aspect 24. The home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 or 23, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in an amount of 5 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0132] Aspect 25. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 to 24, wherein the beverage filter medium has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0133] Aspect 26. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 to 25, wherein the beverage filter medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

[0134] Aspect 27. The home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 to 26, wherein the beverage filter medium has a thickness of about 30 μm to about 65 μm.

[0135] Aspect 28. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 to 27, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0136] Aspect 29. The home compostable beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 23 to 28, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0137] Aspect 30. A home compostable beverage filter medium according to any one of aspects 1 to 10 or 22 to 29, wherein the beverage filter medium has an air permeability of about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0138] Aspect 31. A beverage filtration medium comprising natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably from 23% to 35%; and annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% by weight, preferably from 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0139] Aspect 32. The beverage filtration medium according to aspect 31, wherein the beverage filtration medium is home compostable.

[0140] Aspect 33. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 or 32, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm.

[0141] Aspect 34. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 33, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm.

[0142] Aspect 35. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 34, wherein the density of the beverage filtration medium is between 0.13 and 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0143] Aspect 36. A beverage filter medium according to any one of Aspects 31 to 35, wherein the beverage filter medium complies with the industrial compostability of European Standard EN 13432, and further complies with the following requirements: (i) in a biodegradation test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) in a disintegration test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0144] Aspect 37. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 36, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm.

[0145] Aspect 38. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 37, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are mercerized pulp.

[0146] Aspect 39. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of the preceding aspects 31 to 38, wherein the beverage filtration medium is a wet-laid nonwoven.

[0147] Aspect 40. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of the preceding aspects 31 to 39, wherein the compressibility index is from 0.3 to 0.9, preferably from 0.35 to 0.85.

[0148] Aspect 41. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40, wherein the cork fibers are present in an amount of 0 wt % to 35 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0149] Aspect 42. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 41, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

[0150] Aspect 43. The beverage filter medium according to aspect 42, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serving beverage machine.

[0151] Aspect 44. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 42 or 43, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0152] Aspect 45. A beverage filtration medium according to any one of Aspects 31 to 44, wherein the natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in an amount of 15 wt % to 35 wt %, preferably 20 wt % to 30 wt %, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0153] Aspect 46. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 45, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

[0154] Aspect 47. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 46, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

[0155] Aspect 48. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 47, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0156] Aspect 49. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 48, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, more preferably less than 160 μm.

[0157] Aspect 50. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 49, wherein the beverage filtration medium is attached to or sealed to the beverage capsule by a mechanical method such as crimping.

[0158] Aspect 51. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 50, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s.

[0159] Aspect 52. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 51, wherein the man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, are present in an amount of 10 wt% to 30 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0160] Aspect 53. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0161] Aspect 54. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

[0162] Aspect 55. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 or 54, wherein the natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in an amount of 5 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0163] Aspect 56. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 to 55, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0164] Aspect 57. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 to 56, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

[0165] Aspect 58. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 to 57, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 30 μm to about 65 μm.

[0166] Aspect 59. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 to 58, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0167] Aspect 60. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 53 to 59, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0168] Aspect 61. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of aspects 31 to 40 or 53 to 60, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0169] Aspect 62. A method for making a home compostable beverage filter medium, comprising providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight %, preferably 25 weight % to 60 weight %, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and providing mercerized pulp fibers in an amount of 5 weight % to 35 weight % based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and making the home compostable beverage filter medium by a wet-laid web process.

[0170] Aspect 63. The method according to aspect 62, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm.

[0171] Aspect 64. The method according to aspect 62 or 63, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm.

[0172] Aspect 65. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 64, wherein the density of the beverage filtration medium is between 0.13 and 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3 , more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0173] Aspect 66. A method according to any one of Aspects 62 to 65, wherein the beverage filtration medium complies with the industrial compostability of European Standard EN13432, and further complies with the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0174] Aspect 67. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 66, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a minimum pore size in the range of 1 to 20 μm.

[0175] Aspect 68. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 67, wherein the mercerized pulp fiber has a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably from 23 to 35%.

[0176] Aspect 69. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 68, wherein the beverage filtration medium is a wet-laid nonwoven.

[0177] Aspect 70. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 69, wherein the compression index is from 0.3 to 0.9, preferably from 0.35 to 0.85.

[0178] Aspect 71. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 70, wherein the cork fibers are present in an amount of 0 wt % to 35 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0179] Aspect 72. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71, wherein the beverage filter medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

[0180] Aspect 73. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 72, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee and the beverage capsule is for use in a single-serving beverage machine.

[0181] Aspect 74. The method according to any of aspects 72 or 73, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0182] Aspect 75. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 74, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in an amount of 15 wt % to 35 wt %, preferably 20 wt % to 30 wt %, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0183] Aspect 76. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 75, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

[0184] Aspect 77. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 76, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

[0185] Aspect 78. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 77, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0186] Aspect 79. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 78, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, more preferably less than 160 μm.

[0187] Aspect 80. The method according to any one of aspects 73 to 79, wherein the beverage filtration medium is attached to or sealed to the beverage capsule by a mechanical method such as crimping.

[0188] Aspect 81. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 80, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s.

[0189] Aspect 82. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 81, wherein the man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, are present in an amount of 10 wt% to 30 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0190] Aspect 83. The method according to aspects 62 to 71, wherein the beverage filtration media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0191] Aspect 84. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

[0192] Aspect 85. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in an amount of 5 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0193] Aspect 86. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83 to 85, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0194] Aspect 87. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83 to 86, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

[0195] Aspect 88. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83 to 87, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 30 μm to about 65 μm.

[0196] Aspect 89. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 88, wherein the beverage filtration media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0197] Aspect 90. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 89, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0198] Aspect 91. The method according to any one of aspects 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0199] Aspect 92. A method for making a beverage filter medium, comprising providing natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably 23% to 35%, and providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25 weight %, preferably 25 weight % to 60 weight %, based on the total weight of the fibers in the beverage filter medium, and making a home compostable beverage filter medium by a wet-laid web process.

[0200] Aspect 93. The method according to aspect 92, wherein the beverage filtration medium is home compostable.

[0201] Aspect 94. The method according to any of Aspects 92 or 93, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm.

[0202] Aspect 95. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 94, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm, preferably less than 330 μm.

[0203] Aspect 96. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 95, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a density of 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm 3 , preferably 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm 3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm 3 within the range.

[0204] Aspect 97. A method according to any one of Aspects 92 to 96, wherein the beverage filtration medium complies with the industrial compostability of European Standard EN13432, and further complies with the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight biodegradation within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at an ambient temperature of 20°C to 30°C, wherein the test material achieves at least 90% w / w dry weight disintegration within 6 months or less.

[0205] Aspect 98. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 97, wherein the minimum pore size of the beverage filtration medium is in the range of 1 to 20 μm.

[0206] Aspect 99. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 98, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are mercerized pulp.

[0207] Aspect 100. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 99, wherein the beverage filtration medium is a wet-laid nonwoven.

[0208] Aspect 101. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 94, wherein the compression index is from 0.3 to 0.9, preferably from 0.35 to 0.85.

[0209] Aspect 102. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101, wherein the cork fibers are present in an amount of 0 wt % to 35 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0210] Aspect 103. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 102, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

[0211] Aspect 104. The method according to aspect 103, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee and the beverage capsule is for use in a single-serving beverage machine.

[0212] Aspect 105. The method according to any of aspects 103 or 104, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0213] Aspect 106. The method according to any one of Aspects 92 to 105, wherein the natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in an amount of 15 wt % to 35 wt %, preferably 20 wt % to 30 wt %, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0214] Aspect 107. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 106, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

[0215] Aspect 108. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 107, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

[0216] Aspect 109. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 108, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 110 μm to about 160 μm, preferably about 120 μm to about 150 μm.

[0217] Aspect 110. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 109, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 200 μm, preferably less than 180 μm, more preferably less than 160 μm.

[0218] Aspect 111. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 110, wherein the beverage filtration medium is attached to or sealed to the beverage capsule by a mechanical method such as crimping.

[0219] Aspect 112. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 111, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s, preferably about 600 to 900 L / m 2 / s.

[0220] Aspect 113. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 112, wherein the man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, are present in an amount of 10 wt% to 30 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

[0221] Aspect 114. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101, wherein the beverage filtration media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0222] Aspect 115. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filtration medium is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

[0223] Aspect 116. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 or 115, wherein the natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in an amount of 5 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

[0224] Aspect 117. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 to 116, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0225] Aspect 118. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 to 117, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

[0226] Aspect 119. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 to 118, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a thickness of about 30 μm to about 65 μm.

[0227] Aspect 120. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 to 119, wherein the beverage filtration media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably without added heat-sealable material.

[0228] Aspect 121. The method according to any one of aspects 114 to 120, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0229] Aspect 122. The method according to any one of aspects 92 to 101 or 114 to 121, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

[0230] Although specific embodiments have been described, the applicant or other persons skilled in the art may think of substitutions, modifications, changes, improvements and substantial equivalents that are not currently foreseeable or may not be foreseeable. Therefore, the appended claims submitted and their possible modifications are intended to include all such substitutions, modifications, changes, improvements and substantial equivalents.

[0231] All ranges disclosed herein include endpoints, and endpoints can be combined independently of each other (e.g., "up to 25 wt%, or more specifically, 5 wt% to 20 wt%" includes the endpoints of the "5 wt% to 25 wt%" range and all intermediate values, etc.). "Combination" includes blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, etc. The terms "first", "second", etc. do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used to distinguish one element from another. Unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context, the terms "a" and "an" and "the" do not indicate a number limitation and should be interpreted as covering the singular and the plural. "Or" means "and / or" unless otherwise explicitly stated. References to "some embodiments", "one embodiment", etc. throughout the specification mean that the specific elements described in conjunction with the embodiment are included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not exist in other embodiments. In addition, it should be understood that the described elements can be combined in any suitable manner in various embodiments. "Combinations thereof" is open ended and includes any combination comprising at least one of the listed components or properties and optionally unlisted similar or equivalent components or properties.

[0232] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs. All cited patents, patent applications and other references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, if a term in this application contradicts or conflicts with a term in an incorporated reference, the term in this application takes precedence over the conflicting term in the incorporated reference.

[0233] Unless otherwise indicated herein to the contrary, all test standards are the most recent standards in effect as of the filing date of this application or, if priority is claimed, the filing date of the earliest priority application in which the test standards appear.

[0234] Although the beverage filtration media, systems and methods of the present disclosure have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is not limited to these exemplary embodiments and / or implementations. On the contrary, the beverage filtration media, systems and methods of the present disclosure are susceptible to many implementations and applications, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure. The present disclosure expressly includes such modifications, enhancements and / or variations of the disclosed embodiments. Since many changes can be made in the above-mentioned structures, and many widely different embodiments of the present disclosure can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, it is intended that all contents contained in the drawings and description be interpreted as illustrative, rather than restrictive. In the above disclosure, it is intended to make additional modifications, changes and substitutions. Therefore, it is appropriate that the attached claims should be interpreted broadly in a manner consistent with the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A beverage filtration medium comprising: Natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%; and Annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration media.

2. The beverage filtration medium of claim 1, wherein the beverage filtration medium is home compostable.

3. A beverage filter medium according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the beverage filter medium has a mean flow pore size in the range of 30 to 120 μm, and / or The beverage filtration medium has a maximum pore size of less than 350 μm.

4. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a viscosity of 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm 3 Density within the range.

5. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are mercerized pulp.

6. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the beverage filtration medium is a wet-laid nonwoven.

7. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the compressibility index is from 0.3 to 0.

9.

8. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein cork fibers are present in an amount of 0 wt% to 35 wt% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

9. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

10. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in an amount of 15 to 35 weight percent based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

11. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, and / or The beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m.

12. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the beverage filtration medium is attached or sealed to the beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

13. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 300 to 1000 L / m 2 / s.

14. A beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell fibers, are present in an amount of 10 to 30 wt. % based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

15. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag.

16. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 7 or 15, wherein natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in an amount of 5% to 15% by weight based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium.

17. A beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or 15 or 16, wherein the beverage filtration medium has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, and / or The beverage filtration medium has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m.

18. The beverage filtration medium of any one of claims 1 to 7 or 15 to 17, wherein the beverage filtration medium is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag.

19. The beverage filtration medium according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or 15 to 18, wherein the beverage filtration medium has an air permeability of about 1500 to 2500 L / m 2 / s.

20. A method of making a beverage filtration medium, comprising: Providing natural cellulose pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%; as well as providing annual plant fibers in an amount of at least 25% based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filtration medium; as well as Home compostable beverage filtration media is manufactured via a wet laid process.

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