Fastening device comprising two materials

Abstract

A securing device (50) comprising a base (52) and a plurality of securing elements (54), the securing device (50) comprising a first thermoplastic material having a flexural modulus of between 200 MPa and 4500 MPa and a second material selected from the group of materials: a second thermoplastic material having a flexural modulus that differs from the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10% and / or at least 100 MPa; the mass ratio of the non-thermoplastic material in the total composition of the fixing device is strictly greater than 1%; the mass ratio of the mineral filler and / or the plant filler in the total composition of the fixing device is less than or equal to 30%; or a combination of the materials.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of retaining devices, and more particularly to retaining devices comprising multiple retaining elements, such as those for mating with hooks and / or rings. Background Technology

[0002] Fixing devices are particularly used in the field of hygiene products, such as hooks that mate with ring-shaped parts that form the application area of ​​the fixing device.

[0003] Disposable diapers typically include an absorbent center section, which comprises a front and a back section at each end. The front section forms a band with two front loops, and the back section forms a band with two back loops, allowing the diaper to be secured to the wearer. Each back loop typically has a securing device (e.g., a hook) that engages with an application area located on the front loop. In the hygiene products industry, this application area is often referred to as a "comfort band" or a "landing zone."

[0004] In France, 3.5 billion disposable diapers are consumed annually.

[0005] Disposable diapers take hundreds of years to decompose naturally in landfills.

[0006] Incineration is an inefficient method, considering the amount of liquid that needs to be evaporated.

[0007] Recycling may be a viable solution for conserving materials extracted from the environment, but it is also complex. Urine and feces must be removed from used disposable diapers, and then the various materials used to make the diapers must be disassembled and sorted.

[0008] Composting may be a possible solution. In fact, used disposable diapers contain about 75% biodegradable materials (urine, feces, cellulose). However, the fastening device, front band, and main body structure (chassis, bottom) of disposable diapers are usually made of non-compostable polypropylene.

[0009] Furthermore, the global shortage of raw materials has led to the rationalization of raw material production (in accordance with economic principles), resulting in a shortage of very specialized materials in many regions (especially in the production of small products on the order of millimeters or smaller, such as hooks for fastening devices).

[0010] Therefore, the continued demand for stationary installations and the rationalization of commercially available materials have led to the need to find solutions for continuing to manufacture stationary installations without introducing significant cost increases, while taking into account the significant increase in energy and raw material costs and existing manufacturing methods.

[0011] Furthermore, an increasing number of available materials (especially those on the market) originate from external or internal recycling channels, such as pre- or post-consumer materials that are degraded or even severely degraded, making them unsuitable for direct use in the manufacture of stationary installations. Given the availability of such materials, there is also a demand to upgrade them. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention aims to at least partially overcome the above-mentioned defects.

[0013] Therefore, this disclosure relates to a fixing device, comprising: - Base, extending longitudinally and having an upper surface and a lower surface; - Multiple fixing elements extend from the upper surface of the base, each fixing element including a rod; The fixing device comprises, by weight percentage, a first thermoplastic material and a second material, particularly formed from the first thermoplastic material and the second material. Preferably, the first thermoplastic material has a flexural modulus greater than or equal to 200 MPa and less than or equal to 4500 MPa, as measured according to standard ISO 178:2019. The second material is selected from the group consisting of: - A second thermoplastic material, the flexural modulus of which differs from that of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10% and / or at least 100 MPa; - Non-thermoplastic materials, whose mass percentage in the total assembly of the fixture is strictly greater than 1%, especially greater than or equal to 1.1%, especially greater than or equal to 1.2%; - Mineral fillers and / or plant fillers, whose mass percentage in the total assembly of the fixture is less than or equal to 30%; or - A combination of the above materials.

[0014] Thanks to the composition of the fixed unit, it can be composted in an industrial environment (e.g., according to standard EN13432:2000), or may be based on composting materials and / or derived biomass (e.g., according to standard EN 16785-1:2016 and / or standard ASTM D 6866:2022), and can be disposed of at the end of its life through industrial composting and / or recycling channels.

[0015] Due to the composition of the fixture, the fixture can be made from recycled materials (e.g., pre- or post-consumer materials).

[0016] Thanks to the composition of the fixture, it is possible to continue manufacturing fixture components and / or obtain fixtures with performance at least equivalent to (or even better than) the prior art without fundamentally changing the existing production line and / or the method of manufacturing such fixtures.

[0017] Surprisingly, thanks to the composition of the fixture, it is possible to obtain the fixture and / or a preform intended to form the fixture, which is easier to form, especially easier to mold and / or demold and / or calender, while the forming temperature range is acceptable for current production lines and / or current methods used to manufacture such fixtures.

[0018] It is generally believed that the mass percentage of the first thermoplastic material is greater than the mass percentage of each material constituting the second material.

[0019] As a non-limiting example, the mass percentage of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of the mass percentage of the fixture.

[0020] According to section 2.1177 of standard EN ISO 472:2013, a thermoplastic material is a material that, within the temperature range characteristic of the plastic material under discussion, can be repeatedly softened by heating, repeatedly hardened by cooling, and can be shaped in the softened state by plastic molding in a mold, by extrusion or by forming.

[0021] It should be understood that the first thermoplastic material and / or the second thermoplastic material are materials with thermoplastic properties. However, these thermoplastic materials may contain a certain amount of non-thermoplastic material, said amount, such that the properties of the material are still thermoplastic.

[0022] Mineral fillers and / or plant fillers are relatively stable solid materials that are added, particularly to alter the material's resistance, shape and / or stability and / or processing properties (e.g., forming) and / or to reduce production costs.

[0023] As a non-limiting example, the filler may be in the form of powder or fiber.

[0024] The content of mineral filler and / or plant filler in the total mass of the fixed device may be greater than or equal to 0.5%, especially greater than or equal to 1%, 2%, or 5%; and / or less than or equal to 25%, especially less than or equal to 20%.

[0025] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 800 MPa, particularly greater than 1200 MPa, particularly greater than 1800 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 4000 MPa, particularly less than 3000 MPa, particularly less than 2400 MPa. Therefore, the effects of the invention, particularly recyclability, can be more effectively demonstrated within these ranges.

[0026] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 800 MPa, particularly greater than 1000 MPa, particularly greater than 1200 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 4000 MPa, particularly less than 3000 MPa, particularly less than 2400 MPa. Therefore, the effects of the invention, particularly recyclability, can be more effectively demonstrated within these ranges.

[0027] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the second thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 800 MPa, particularly greater than 1200 MPa, particularly greater than 1500 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 4000 MPa, particularly less than 3000 MPa, particularly less than 2500 MPa, and even more particularly less than 2000 MPa. Therefore, the effects of the invention (particularly recyclability) can be more effectively demonstrated within these ranges, and the gripping performance with the ring-paired member is improved.

[0028] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material can be greater than that of the second thermoplastic material. Therefore, the effects of the invention can be more effectively manifested within these ranges, and the gripping performance with the ring-pairing member is improved. In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material can be less than that of the second thermoplastic material. Therefore, the resulting fastening device has the advantage of being more economical.

[0029] In some embodiments, the number-average molecular weight of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 20,000 g / mol.

[0030] Number-average molecular weight can be measured using high-temperature SEC (an abbreviation for "Size Exclusion Chromatography").

[0031] In some embodiments, the non-thermoplastic material may include plasticizers and / or flow promoters and / or lubricants and / or stabilizers.

[0032] In some embodiments, non-thermoplastic materials may include molding compounds and / or release agents and / or processing aids.

[0033] Plasticizers are compounds that reduce the softening range of a material to make it easier to shape.

[0034] A flow promoter is a compound that reduces the viscosity of a material.

[0035] Lubricant is a compound that reduces friction between materials or between material contact surfaces during processing (such as forming).

[0036] A stabilizer is a compound that increases the stability of a material over time and / or in various environments.

[0037] Processing aids can also be referred to by the term "processing aids".

[0038] In some embodiments, non-thermoplastic materials may simultaneously have several effects, such as the effects of plasticizers and / or flow promoters and / or lubricants and / or processing aids.

[0039] In some embodiments, the second material may comprise a non-thermoplastic material having a molecular weight that is at least 10% lower than the number-average molecular weight of the first thermoplastic material and / or less than or equal to 15,000 g / mol.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second thermoplastic material may simultaneously have several effects, such as the effects of a plasticizer and / or a flow promoter and / or a lubricant and / or a processing aid.

[0041] In some embodiments, the MFR of the first thermoplastic material and / or the second thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 1 g / 10 min, for example greater than or equal to 2 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 10 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 15 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 300 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 200 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 170 g / 10 min, more particularly less than 100 g / 10 min, and even more particularly less than 70 g / 10 min. Therefore, the effects of the invention can be more effectively demonstrated within these ranges, and the material has sufficient fluidity to form the fixing element according to the invention (i.e., into the molding cavity), rather than simply spreading it on the surface of the molding tool (outside the molding cavity), particularly for the preparation of fixing elements with a height of less than 350 micrometers and / or a bottom thickness of less than 120 micrometers (particularly less than 100 micrometers).

[0042] MFR is the mass melt flow rate of a thermoplastic material and is measured according to ISO 1133-1:2022 and / or ISO 1133-2:2011, depending on the common forming temperature of the material under consideration, for example, measured as 230°C / 2.16 kg or 190°C / 2.16 kg.

[0043] In some embodiments, the MFR of the second material (particularly the second thermoplastic material) may differ from that of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10%, particularly at least 15%, and / or at least 5 g / 10 min, particularly at least 10 g / 10 min.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second material may comprise a non-thermoplastic material that is in a liquid state or an intermediate state between liquid and solid at a temperature of less than or equal to 150°C, particularly less than or equal to 100°C, especially at room temperature (about 25°C), particularly in the form of a wax.

[0045] In some embodiments, as measured according to ASTM D445-21E02, the kinematic viscosity of the non-thermoplastic material at the processing temperature (e.g., at the forming temperature) can be less than or equal to 700 mm². 2 / s.

[0046] The processing temperature (especially the forming temperature) can be greater than or equal to 80°C, especially greater than or equal to 95°C; and / or less than or equal to 250°C, especially less than or equal to 225°C, especially less than or equal to 200°C.

[0047] In some embodiments, the dynamic viscosity of a non-thermoplastic material can be less than or equal to 500 mPa·s at processing temperatures (e.g., at forming temperatures), as measured according to ASTM D445-21E02.

[0048] The processing temperature (especially the forming temperature) can be greater than or equal to 80°C, especially greater than or equal to 95°C and / or less than or equal to 250°C, especially less than or equal to 225°C, especially less than or equal to 200°C.

[0049] As a non-limiting example, the first and / or second thermoplastic material comprises: - Polyolefins, particularly polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene (PE), especially bio-based polyethylene (Bio-PE) and / or copolymers thereof; and / or - Polyesters, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (e.g., bio-based polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET)), and / or biodegradable polyesters, and / or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or polybutylene adipate / terephthalate (PBAT), and / or polybutylene succinate (PBS), and / or polybutylene succinate-adipate copolymer (PBSA), and / or polyethersulfone (PES), and / or poly(1,3-propenysuccinic acid) (PTS), and / or polytetramethylene adipate-terephthalate (PTAT), and / or polycaprolactone (PCL), and / or thermoplastic starch (TPS); and / or - Polyamides (PAs) (especially bio-based polyamides (Bio-PAs)), and / or casein derivatives; and / or - A mixture of two or more of these thermoplastic materials.

[0050] In some embodiments, the fixing device may be free of colorants, such as TiO2-based colorants.

[0051] In some embodiments, the second material may include mineral fillers and / or plant fillers, such as colorants, such as TiO2-based colorants, particularly those comprising less than or equal to 1.5% by mass in the composition, particularly less than or equal to 1%.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first thermoplastic material may be a first polyolefin-based material, such as a first material based on a first polypropylene, and the second material may include a second thermoplastic material, which is a second polyolefin-based material, such as a second polypropylene.

[0053] In some embodiments, the mass percentage ratio of the second thermoplastic material to the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 0.3, particularly greater than or equal to 0.45; and / or less than or equal to 0.7, particularly less than or equal to 0.60.

[0054] In some embodiments, the MFR of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 10 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 15 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 30 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 25 g / 10 min.

[0055] In some embodiments, the MFR of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 25 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 35 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 45 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 40 g / 10 min.

[0056] In some embodiments, the MFR of the second thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 50 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 55 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 70 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 65 g / 10 min.

[0057] In some embodiments, the MFR of the second thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 10 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 15 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 40 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 35 g / 10 min.

[0058] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 1900 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 2000 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 2500 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 2300 MPa.

[0059] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 1300 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 1500 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 2000 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 1900 MPa.

[0060] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the second thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 1500 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 1700 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 2400 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 2000 MPa, for example strictly less than or equal to 2000 MPa.

[0061] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the second thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 1100 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 1300 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 1800 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 1700 MPa.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first thermoplastic material may be based on polyester, and the second material may comprise a non-thermoplastic material, the content of which is greater than or equal to 1.5% by mass in the total assembly of the fixture, particularly greater than or equal to 2%, particularly greater than or equal to 5%; and / or less than or equal to 25% by mass in the total assembly of the fixture, particularly less than or equal to 20%, particularly less than or equal to 18%, more precisely less than or equal to 15%, and in some cases less than or equal to 13%.

[0063] In some embodiments, the MFR of the first polyester-based thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 10 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 20 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 50 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 40 g / 10 min.

[0064] In some embodiments, the molecular weight of the non-thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 250 g / mol, particularly greater than or equal to 300 g / mol; and / or less than or equal to 19,000 g / mol, particularly less than or equal to 15,000 g / mol, particularly less than or equal to 10,000 g / mol, more particularly less than or equal to 800 g / mol, and in some cases less than or equal to 550 g / mol.

[0065] In some embodiments, the mass percentage ratio of the second material to the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 0.02, particularly greater than or equal to 0.05, particularly greater than or equal to 0.1; and / or less than or equal to 0.30, particularly less than or equal to 0.25, particularly less than or equal to 0.24.

[0066] In some embodiments, the non-thermoplastic material may be based on fatty acid derivatives, such as fatty acid esters and / or fatty amides, and / or citrates and / or polyalkylene glycols and / or azelaic acid, especially in the form of oils and / or waxes and / or flakes.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first thermoplastic material may be based on a first polyester, and the second material may include a second thermoplastic material based on a second polyester.

[0068] In some embodiments, the MFR of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 15 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 25 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 55 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 45 g / 10 min.

[0069] In some embodiments, the MFR of the second thermoplastic material may be less than or equal to 25 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 15 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 10 g / 10 min; and / or greater than or equal to 0.5 g / 10 min.

[0070] In some embodiments, the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material may be greater than or equal to 1500 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 2500 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 3000 MPa; and / or less than or equal to 4500 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 4000 MPa.

[0071] In some embodiments, the tensile modulus of the second thermoplastic material may be less than or equal to 2500 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 1500 MPa, particularly less than or equal to 1200 MPa, and in some cases less than or equal to 800 MPa; and / or greater than or equal to 15 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 50 MPa, particularly greater than or equal to 100 MPa.

[0072] The tensile modulus is measured according to ISO 527-1:2019 and / or ISO 527-2:2012.

[0073] In some embodiments, the mass percentage ratio of the second thermoplastic material (e.g., the second polyester of the second thermoplastic material) to the first thermoplastic material (e.g., the first polyester of the first thermoplastic material) may be greater than or equal to 0.20, particularly greater than or equal to 0.30, particularly greater than or equal to 0.35; and / or less than or equal to 0.70, particularly less than or equal to 0.60, particularly less than or equal to 0.55.

[0074] In some embodiments, the polyester of the first thermoplastic material and the polyester of the second thermoplastic material may be of different types, for example, one based on PLA and the other based on PBAT, or vice versa; or for example, one based on PET, bio-PET, biodegradable polyester, PHA and / or PLA and / or PBAT and / or PBS and / or PBS A and / or PES and / or PTS and / or PTAT and / or PCL and / or TPS, and the other based on a second thermoplastic material with a different name and selected from the same list.

[0075] In some embodiments, the second material may comprise a non-thermoplastic material, the content of which accounts for more than or equal to 1.5% by mass of the total assembly of the fixture, particularly more than or equal to 2%, particularly more than or equal to 4%; and / or less than or equal to 15%, particularly less than or equal to 12%, particularly less than or equal to 10%.

[0076] In some embodiments, the second material may include mineral fillers and / or plant fillers, the content of which, by mass, is less than or equal to 25% of the total composition of the fixture, particularly less than or equal to 20%; and / or greater than or equal to 5%, particularly greater than or equal to 10%, particularly greater than or equal to 13%.

[0077] In some embodiments, the mass of the fixing device may be less than or equal to 200 g / m. 2 Especially those less than or equal to 150g / cm 2 Especially those less than or equal to 120 g / cm³ 2 .

[0078] In some embodiments, the height of the fixing element may be greater than or equal to 120 μm; and / or less than or equal to 400 μm.

[0079] In some embodiments, the thickness of the base may be greater than or equal to 25 μm, particularly greater than or equal to 40 μm; and / or less than or equal to 150 μm, particularly less than or equal to 100 μm.

[0080] In some embodiments, the rod of the fixing element has a first dimension along the direction MD and a second dimension along the direction CD, the ratio of the first dimension to the second dimension being greater than 0.7, particularly greater than 0.8, particularly greater than 0.9; and / or less than 1.3, particularly less than 1.2, particularly less than 1.1. Therefore, the effects of the invention are even more pronounced with respect to this ratio of the rod of the fixing element, particularly regarding gripping performance.

[0081] The thickness of the base is measured between the upper and lower surfaces in a direction perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces. The upper surface of the base may be flat or substantially flat. The lower surface of the base may be flat or substantially flat.

[0082] In some embodiments, each fixing element may include a rod with a head at the top; each rod includes a lower end and an opposite upper end, the lower end being connected to a base and the head extending from the upper end.

[0083] The head typically extends from the upper end of the rod. At least one portion of the head may extend beyond the upper end of the rod to define a gripping or lobe structure adapted to engage with fibers and / or rings and / or additional fastening elements to create a self-gripping (self-locking) connection. Therefore, the head typically has the largest cross-section, with its surface area significantly larger than the surface area of ​​the upper end of the rod.

[0084] In some embodiments, the thickness of the head is greater than or equal to 20 µm, particularly greater than or equal to 40 µm; and / or less than or equal to 150 µm, particularly less than or equal to 70 µm, and even more particularly less than or equal to 60 µm.

[0085] In some embodiments, the thickness of the head is greater than or equal to 120 μm, particularly greater than or equal to 150 μm; and / or less than or equal to 550 μm, particularly less than or equal to 500 μm, and even more particularly less than or equal to 480 μm.

[0086] As a non-limiting example, in a first direction, such as in direction MD (an abbreviation for "Machine Direction"), the rod has a minimum width and the head has a maximum width, and the ratio of the minimum width of the rod to the maximum width of the head is greater than or equal to 0.5, particularly greater than or equal to 0.55, particularly greater than or equal to 0.6; and / or less than or equal to 1.0, particularly less than or equal to 0.95, particularly less than or equal to 0.90.

[0087] As a non-limiting example, in the second direction, particularly perpendicular to the first direction, such as in direction CD (an acronym for "according to Cross Direction"), the rod has a minimum width and the head has a maximum width, and the ratio of the minimum width of the rod to the maximum width of the head is greater than or equal to 0.35, particularly greater than or equal to 0.4, particularly greater than or equal to 0.45; and / or less than or equal to 1.0, particularly less than or equal to 0.8, particularly less than or equal to 0.70, particularly less than or equal to 0.65.

[0088] As a non-limiting example, in the second direction, particularly perpendicular to the first direction, the rod has a minimum width and the head has a maximum width, and the ratio of the minimum width of the rod to the maximum width of the head is greater than or equal to 0.90, particularly greater than or equal to 0.95; and / or less than or equal to 1.1, particularly less than or equal to 1.05.

[0089] In some embodiments, the height of the rod is greater than or equal to 150 µm, particularly greater than or equal to 200 µm; and / or less than or equal to 330 µm, particularly less than or equal to 300 µm.

[0090] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the head to the height of the rod is greater than or equal to 0.05, particularly greater than or equal to 0.1; and / or less than or equal to 0.7, particularly less than or equal to 0.3, and in some cases less than or equal to 0.25.

[0091] In some embodiments, in a first direction, such as in direction MD, the rod has a proximal portion disposed on the base side and a distal portion disposed on the head side, and the width of the rod at its proximal portion may be greater than the width of the rod at its distal portion.

[0092] In some embodiments, in the second direction, particularly perpendicular to the first direction, such as in direction CD, the rod has a proximal portion disposed on the base side and a distal portion disposed on the head side, and the width of the rod at its proximal portion may be greater than the width of the rod at its distal portion.

[0093] In some embodiments, the fixing element may have at least one plane of symmetry, which is perpendicular to the plane formed by the base and passes through the center of the rod and / or the center of the head.

[0094] In some embodiments, the fixing element may have a single plane of symmetry, which is perpendicular to the plane formed by the base and passes through the center of the rod and / or the center of the head.

[0095] In some embodiments, the fixing element may have at least two planes of symmetry, which are perpendicular to the plane formed by the base and pass through the center of the rod and / or the center of the head, and in particular, the two planes of symmetry of the fixing element are perpendicular to each other.

[0096] In some embodiments, the fixing element may typically be made from a preform (not shown) produced by molding (particularly by continuous or discontinuous injection or by extrusion processes), the preform comprising at least one rod and optionally a head, the upper end of the rod and / or the head of the preform being deformed. The deformation is typically performed by calendering (e.g., by hot calendering, for example, in one or two calendering steps).

[0097] In some embodiments, the fixing element may typically be integrally formed with the base; in particular, the rod and head of the fixing element are integrally formed with the base. In some embodiments, the material composition of the fixing element and / or the base is uniformly distributed in the fixing element (including the rod and / or the head) and / or the base, respectively.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first thermoplastic material may contain no elastomeric material and / or thermoplastic elastomer, i.e., the material defined in ISO 18064, the standard of April 2022. In other words, the first thermoplastic material may be a non-elastic material and / or a non-elastic thermoplastic material, conforming to the elastomeric material and / or elastomeric thermoplastic material of ISO 18064, the standard of April 2022. Therefore, this feature reduces the manufacturing cost of such a device.

[0099] In some embodiments, the second thermoplastic material may contain no elastomeric material and / or thermoplastic elastomer, i.e., the material defined in ISO 18064, standard of April 2022. In other words, the second thermoplastic material may be a non-elastic material and / or a non-elastic thermoplastic material, conforming to the elastomeric material and / or elastomeric thermoplastic material of ISO 18064, standard of April 2022. Therefore, this feature reduces the manufacturing cost of such a device.

[0100] In some embodiments, the fixing device is made by extruding material, thereby forming an extruded fixing device. This fixing device has a direction MD and a direction CD transverse to the direction MD.

[0101] In some embodiments, each fastening element includes a rod that can be molded, i.e., the rod has a surface that is directly formed by extrusion, or directly formed by extrusion and at least one calendering step for head formation (or deformation). In other words, the rod does not require cutting and / or stretching steps, which can damage the product, particularly making it prone to "spiral breakage" defects, causing the fastener to tear easily during winding and / or unwinding. In some cases, the rod is provided with two opposing planes, particularly two opposing planes perpendicular to directions MD and / or CD.

[0102] In some embodiments, the fixing element and the base comprise the first thermoplastic material and the second material in significant mass percentages, particularly made of the first thermoplastic material and the second material.

[0103] In some embodiments, the rod, head, and base of the fixing element comprise, by a significant mass percentage, the first thermoplastic material and the second material, particularly made of the first thermoplastic material and the second material.

[0104] In some embodiments, the fixing elements may be arranged in aligned rows and columns or in an interleaved manner. More specifically, different fixing elements may be arranged to be aligned in the lateral direction CD and / or in the machine direction MD, or offset to form an interleaved or honeycomb pattern, and then two consecutive rows or two columns may be offset in the lateral direction and / or in the machine direction, respectively, with offset spacing corresponding to half of the lateral spacing and / or half of the machine spacing.

[0105] In some embodiments, the thickness of the head of each fixing element may be the distance measured between the upper end of the rod and the upper end of the fixing element in a direction perpendicular to the base.

[0106] In some embodiments, the gripping height of each fixing element may be the distance measured between the lower end and the upper end of the head in a direction perpendicular to the base, wherein the gripping height of the head is greater than or equal to the thickness of the head.

[0107] In some embodiments, the hook height of the fixing element can typically be greater than or equal to 30 µm, particularly greater than or equal to 40 µm; and / or less than or equal to 120 µm, particularly less than or equal to 70 µm, particularly less than or equal to 60 µm.

[0108] In some embodiments, the hook height of the fixing element can typically be greater than or equal to 150 µm, particularly greater than or equal to 200 µm; and / or less than or equal to 650 µm, particularly less than or equal to 550 µm, particularly less than or equal to 500 µm, particularly less than or equal to 370 µm.

[0109] In some embodiments, the fixing element may be generally adapted or formed such that the fixing device can engage with the ring to achieve contact closure.

[0110] Generally, two types of self-gripping connections can be distinguished. One type involves the fixing element cooperating with other fixing elements of the same type / property or in the form of fibers and / or filaments and / or rings to create a mechanical connection. The other type involves the fixing element cooperating with a surface to create an adhesive connection (similar to gecko adhesion) or using van der Waals forces. Although the second type of connection may be considered a so-called self-gripping connection in some cases, such fixing elements using van der Waals forces have completely different properties and characteristics than fixing elements using mechanical connections. In fact, in the case of fixing elements using van der Waals forces, only the upper surface of the head ensures attachment to the receiving surface, while in the case of fixing elements used for mechanical attachment, attachment is not ensured by the upper surface of the head, but by the lower surfaces of the head and the rod. According to one embodiment, the fixing device according to the invention is only suitable for mechanical connections.

[0111] In some embodiments, the number of fixing elements per square centimeter of the fixing device may be greater than or equal to 10, particularly greater than or equal to 50, particularly greater than or equal to 125, particularly greater than or equal to 200; and / or less than or equal to 700, particularly less than or equal to 550, particularly less than or equal to 450, and in some cases less than or equal to 315.

[0112] In some embodiments, the peel strength of the fastener, measured according to the methods described in the remainder of the specification, can be greater than or equal to 2 N, particularly greater than or equal to 3 N.

[0113] Methods for measuring peel resistance.

[0114] To measure the peeling performance as a function of overfeeding, the resistance of an assembled pair of comfort hooks / belts with a 180° opening was measured. A single 2 kg roller was used to measure the resistance of the hooks / belts (e.g., 15 mm wide, 25.4 mm long, and assembled at 80 g / m² on a 25.4 mm wide surface). 2 The paper support was pressed onto a 50 mm × 50 mm comfort band sample, with the product's relative orientation identical to that used on diapers. A 1 kg pull was then applied to the hook support for 10 seconds to simulate the closure of a diaper (especially one with elastic ear flaps). The paper support hook was then inserted into the upper movable jaw of the puller (e.g., an MTS System 1 / M model equipped with a 100 N pressure gauge), and the comfort band was inserted into the lower jaw. The distance between the two jaws was 50 mm. To measure the opening force, the upper part of the puller was translated from bottom to top at a speed of 305 mm / min. The maximum force provided by the machine was then recorded, and if necessary, the energy value corresponding to the area below the surface of the test curve obtained from the first 13 mm of the puller's travel was also recorded. When the product width was not 15 mm, the obtained values ​​were recalculated proportionally to 15 mm.

[0115] In some embodiments, the shear strength of the fastener, measured according to the methods described in the remainder of the specification, can be greater than or equal to 35 N, particularly greater than or equal to 45 N.

[0116] Methods for measuring shear strength.

[0117] To measure the shear performance as overfeed changes, a 50 mm × 50 mm comfort belt sample was selected and attached to a rigid plate (e.g., a metal rigid plate) with double-sided tape.

[0118] Considering the relative orientation of the product on the layers, the operator will assemble it at 250 g / m 2 The hook straps on the paper support (e.g., 15 mm wide and 25.4 mm long) are inserted into the comfort belt, and the operator applies pressure with their thumb for 3 seconds.

[0119] Then apply a 1 kg pull to the hook support for 5 seconds to simulate the closing of a diaper (especially a diaper with elastic tabs).

[0120] The metal plate supporting the comfort belt is inserted into the upper movable jaw of the traction frame, such as the MTS System 1 / M model equipped with a 100 N pressure gauge.

[0121] Then insert the paper supporting the hook into the fixed lower jaw.

[0122] The direction of movement of the traction frame will be the same as the direction of the 1 kg pulling force. The distance between the two jaws is 76 mm. To measure the opening force, the upper part of the traction frame is moved from bottom to top at a constant speed of 305 mm / min. The test is performed until the ring and hook are completely disengaged. The maximum force value is then recorded on the obtained curve. When the product width is not 15 mm, the obtained value is recalculated proportionally to 15 mm.

[0123] This disclosure also relates to a laminated assembly comprising the fastening device and non-woven web as described above.

[0124] As a non-limiting example, nonwoven webs can be produced using dry-laid, wet-laid, or spun-web (melt / extrusion process) techniques and bonded by mechanical bonding, thermal bonding, chemical bonding, and / or adhesive bonding.

[0125] According to one example, the fabric is made of bonded carded nonwoven fabric (especially spunlace nonwoven fabric, i.e., nonwoven fabric bonded by hydraulic entanglement).

[0126] Nonwoven webs can be made from a variety of synthetic and / or natural materials. Exemplary natural materials are cellulose fibers (e.g., cotton, jute, flax, etc.), and may also include regenerated cellulose fibers (e.g., rayon or viscose). Natural fibers used in nonwoven materials can be prepared using various methods (e.g., carding). Exemplary synthetic materials include, but are not limited to, synthetic plastic polymers known for forming fibers, including but not limited to: polyolefins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, etc.; polyamides, such as polyamide 6, polyamide 6.6, polyamide 10, polyamide 12, etc.; polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, etc.; polycarbonate, polystyrene, thermoplastic elastomers, polymeric vinyl groups, polyurethanes, and mixtures and copolymers thereof. For example, nonwoven materials can be spunbond, melt-spun, carded thermal bonded, SMS, SMMS, SS, SSS, SSMMS, SSMMMS, air-permeable, and other types of nonwoven materials. For example, nonwoven materials can be nonwoven materials comprising different combinations of spunbond "S" layers and meltblown "M" layers. These examples are not limiting.

[0127] This disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing the above-defined fixing device, comprising the following steps: - Provide a first thermoplastic material and a second material, wherein the first thermoplastic material has a flexural modulus greater than or equal to 200 MPa and less than or equal to 4500 MPa, and the second material is selected from the group consisting of: - A second thermoplastic material, the flexural modulus of which differs from that of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10% and / or at least 100 MPa. - Non-thermoplastic materials, whose content in the total composition of the fixture is strictly greater than 1% by mass. - Mineral fillers and / or plant fillers, whose content in the total composition of the stationary device is less than or equal to 30% by mass, or - A combination of the above materials. - Mix the first thermoplastic material and the second material. - A fixing device is formed from a mixture of a first thermoplastic material and a second material.

[0128] In some embodiments, the step of mixing the first thermoplastic material and the second material is performed online, for example in an extruder and / or in a metering feeder arranged at the inlet of the extruder.

[0129] In some embodiments, after the step of mixing the first thermoplastic material and the second material, the method includes the following steps: - The mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material is packaged for transport, then - A mixture of a first thermoplastic material and a second material is unsealed to form a fixing device.

[0130] In some embodiments, the step of forming the fixing device includes a sub-step of deforming a preform of the fixing element.

[0131] This disclosure also relates to an absorbent article, such as a baby diaper type or an adult incontinence diaper, comprising a top sheet, a bottom sheet and an absorbent core disposed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet, and at least one securing device as defined above.

[0132] In some embodiments, the absorbent article includes at least a complementary fastening element arranged and configured to cooperate with the fastening element of the fastening device to achieve closure of the absorbent article and / or assembly of one or more sub-components of the absorbent article, particularly temporary assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0133] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments given as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0134] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a molding device used to form a fixed device.

[0135] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps in a method for manufacturing a fixing device.

[0136] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of the fixing element according to the first embodiment.

[0137] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of the fixing element according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0138] The invention will be illustrated by way of examples (Ex1 to Ex6) and comparative examples (Comp1 to Comp4).

[0139] Example 1 (Ex1)

[0140] Example 1 is a mixture of two types of polypropylene and one type of mineral filler.

[0141] The first thermoplastic material is the first polypropylene, with an MFR (230℃ / 2.16 kg) of 20 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 2200 MPa.

[0142] The second material is a mixture of a second thermoplastic material (i.e., a second type of polypropylene) and a mineral filler (i.e., a TiO2-based colorant), wherein the second type of polypropylene has an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 60 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1800 MPa.

[0143] The composition is as follows: 64.2% primary polypropylene, 35% secondary polypropylene, and 0.8% colorant.

[0144] Example 2 (Ex2)

[0145] Example 2 is a mixture of two types of polypropylene and one type of mineral filler.

[0146] The first thermoplastic material is the first polypropylene, with an MFR (230℃ / 2.16 kg) of 40 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1700 MPa.

[0147] The second material is a mixture of a second thermoplastic material (i.e., a second type of polypropylene) and a mineral filler (i.e., a TiO2-based colorant), wherein the second type of polypropylene has an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 25 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1500 MPa.

[0148] The composition is as follows: 65% primary polypropylene, 34% secondary polypropylene, and 1% colorant.

[0149] Example 3 (Ex3)

[0150] Example 3 is a mixture of PLA and plasticizer.

[0151] The first thermoplastic material is PLA, with an MFR (190℃ / 2.16 kg) of 30 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 3400 MPa.

[0152] The second material is a non-thermoplastic material, specifically a plasticizer based on citrate esters with a molecular weight of less than 600 g / mol. The plasticizer also has lubricating and flow-enhancing properties.

[0153] The composition is as follows: 85%-90% PLA and 15%-10% plasticizer.

[0154] Example 4 (Ex4)

[0155] Example 4 is a mixture of PLA and plasticizer.

[0156] The first thermoplastic material is PLA, with an MFR (190℃ / 2.16 kg) of 30 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 3400 MPa.

[0157] The second material is a non-thermoplastic material, specifically a plasticizer based on citrate esters with a molecular weight of less than 600 g / mol. The plasticizer also has lubricating and flow-enhancing properties.

[0158] The composition is as follows: 80%-85% PLA and 20%-15% plasticizer.

[0159] Example 5 (Ex5)

[0160] Example 5 is a mixture of PLA and plasticizer.

[0161] The first thermoplastic material is PLA, with an MFR (190℃ / 2.16 kg) of 35 g / 10 min, a flexural modulus of 3600 MPa, and a number-average molecular weight of approximately 44000 g / mol.

[0162] The second material is a mixture of a second thermoplastic material, a non-thermoplastic material, and a mineral filler.

[0163] The second thermoplastic material is a mixture of PLA and PBAT, with an MFR (190℃ / 2.16kg) of 3-5 g / 10 min and a tensile modulus of 185-420 MPa.

[0164] Non-thermoplastic materials are mixtures of lubricants and flow promoters, both with a molecular weight of less than or equal to 1100 g / mol. As one example, lubricants comprise processing aids and slip agents, with the slip agents particularly based on fatty acid derivatives, such as fatty amides.

[0165] The mineral filler is talc.

[0166] The composition is as follows: 52% (+ / -2%) PLA, 23% (+ / -2%) secondary thermoplastic material, approximately 2.5% lubricant, approximately 6% flow promoter and approximately 16% talc.

[0167] Comparative Example 1 (Comp1)

[0168] Comparative Example 1 consisted of polypropylene with an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 35 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1600 MPa.

[0169] Comparative Example 2 (Comp2)

[0170] Comparative Example 2 consisted of polypropylene with an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 100 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1500 MPa.

[0171] Comparative Example 3 (Comp3)

[0172] Comparative Example 3 consisted of PLA with an MFR (190°C / 2.16 kg) of 30 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 3400 MPa.

[0173] Example 6 (Ex6)

[0174] Example 6 is a mixture of two types of polypropylene and one type of mineral filler.

[0175] The first thermoplastic material is the first polypropylene, with an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 35 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1210 MPa.

[0176] The second material is a mixture of a second thermoplastic material (i.e., a second type of polypropylene) and a mineral filler (i.e., a TiO2-based colorant), wherein the second type of polypropylene has an MFR (230℃ / 2.16kg) of 60 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1800 MPa.

[0177] The composition is as follows: 79.2% primary polypropylene, 20% secondary polypropylene, and 0.8% TiO2-based colorant.

[0178] Comparative Example 4 (Comp4)

[0179] Comparative Example 4 consisted of polypropylene with an MFR (230°C / 2.16 kg) of 35 g / 10 min and a flexural modulus of 1210 MPa.

[0180] Forming a fixed device

[0181] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a molding apparatus 10 for forming a fixing device is shown. The molding apparatus 10 includes a closed-loop molding belt 12 having an inner surface 14, an outer surface 16, and a plurality of through cavities 18 extending from the outer surface 16 to the inner surface 14.

[0182] The molding belt 12 is tensioned on a device (e.g., two rotary drive rollers 20, 22) for rotating the molding belt 12. One of the rotary drive rollers 20 of the molding belt 12 can serve as a molding support 24.

[0183] The molding support 24 includes a molding surface 26 for contacting the inner surface 14 of the molding belt 12. The inner surface 14 of the molding belt 12 rests against the rotating drive roller 20 of the molding belt 12.

[0184] The molding apparatus 10 also includes means 28 for dispensing plastic material 30 into a cavity 18 of the molding belt 12. Figure 1 In this process, a device 28 for dispensing materials such as plastic material 30 (i.e., a mixture of a first thermoplastic material and a second material) is arranged on one side of the outer surface 16 of the molding belt 12, opposite to the molding support 26. That is, when the inner surface 14 of the molding belt 12 is against the molding surface 26 of the molding support 24, the plastic material 30 is dispensed into the cavity 18 of the molding belt.

[0185] For example, the dispensing device 28 may be a head for injecting plastic material. The head for injecting plastic material includes an opening whose width in the transverse direction is less than or equal to the width of the molding belt 12 in the transverse direction.

[0186] exist Figure 1 In this process, the dispensing device 28 is positioned at a certain distance from the outer surface 16 of the molding belt 12, thereby forming an air gap 32 between the molding belt 12 and the dispensing device 28.

[0187] When the plastic material 30 is dispensed into the cavity 18 of the molding belt 12, a base 34 is also formed on the outer surface 16 of the molding belt 12, so that once demolded, a strip 36 including the base 34 is formed, on which a plurality of fixing elements 38 or a plurality of fixing element preforms are formed.

[0188] The molding apparatus 10 also includes a release roller 40. The release roller 40 may be configured, for example, to separate the base 34 of the strip 36 from the molding belt 12 under the action of the tension and change in the direction of the strip 36. The release roller 40 may be a suction roller or include a rubber coating.

[0189] It should be noted that the molding equipment 10 may also include a device for removing excess plastic material, such as a scraper 42. Figure 1 In the example, the scraper 42 is disposed on one side of the inner surface 14 of the molding belt 12 and is located after the molding support 24 along the travel direction of the molding belt 12. Therefore, it can be understood that the scraper 42 is disposed after the dispensing device 28.

[0190] The compositions of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Examples 1 to 3 were prepared and formed into a fixing device in molding apparatus 10.

[0191] It should be understood that molding equipment 10 is provided by way of example. Other equipment may be used to form the fixing device with the compositions of Examples 1-5 and Comparative Examples 1-3.

[0192] As a non-restrictive example, Figure 2 A method 100 for manufacturing a fixture is shown. The method 100 includes: step 130, providing a first thermoplastic material 110 and a second material 120; step 140, mixing the first thermoplastic material 110 and the second material 120; and step 150, forming the fixture with the mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material.

[0193] The mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material in Figure 1 The plastic material 30 that leaves the dispensing device 28 is represented by the material 30.

[0194] Between the mixing step 140 and the forming step 150, the mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material can be packaged 160 for delivery, and once the mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material has arrived at its destination, the mixture of the first thermoplastic material and the second material can be unpacked 170, and the forming step 150 can be performed.

[0195] Optionally, the mixing of the first thermoplastic material and the second material can be performed online, that is, for example, in a device directly connected to the dispensing device 28, step 130 of supplying the first thermoplastic material 110 and the second material 120 and step 140 of mixing the first thermoplastic material 110 and the second material 120 can be performed.

[0196] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a partial perspective view of two fixed devices 50.

[0197] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the figures, common elements are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0198] As a non-limiting example, directions MD and CD are also shown.

[0199] The fixing device 50 includes a base 52 having an upper surface and a lower surface, and a plurality of fixing elements 54 extending from the upper surface of the base 52. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The image shows a single fixing element 54.

[0200] The fixing element includes a rod 56 extending from the upper surface of the base 52 and covered by a head 58. The rod includes a lower end connected to the base 52 and the head 58 extending from the upper end.

[0201] At least a portion of the head 58 extends beyond the upper end of the rod to define a gripping or lug structure adapted to engage with fibers and / or rings and / or complementary fastening elements to create a self-gripping connection. Therefore, the surface area of ​​the largest cross-section of the head 58 is generally strictly larger than the surface area of ​​the upper end of the rod 56.

[0202] The thickness and height are measured in a direction perpendicular to the upper and / or lower surfaces of the base (e.g., perpendicular to the plane formed by directions MD and CD), and the width is measured in a plane parallel to the upper and / or lower surfaces (e.g., in a plane parallel to the plane formed by directions MD and CD).

[0203] The thickness E52 of the base 52 is measured between the upper and lower surfaces; the height of the fixing element 54 is H54; the height of the rod 56 is H56 and the width is L56; the thickness of the head 58 is E58, and the two widths are L58 ​​and l58. The width L58 is the maximum width of the head 58.

[0204] Figure 4 The height of the hook, Ha, is shown in the figure.

[0205] Table 1 shows the measured peel strength and shear strength of the hook-type fastener. Peel strength and shear strength values ​​for a fastener with a width of 15 mm are reported.

[0206] [Table 1]

[0207] Peel strength and shear strength values ​​for Comparative Example 3 could not be measured. This is because injection-grade PLA cannot be molded alone. The molding of the fixture was partial, and therefore the molding cavity was not fully filled due to the material's high viscosity. In this case, the forming temperature could not be increased to fluidize the material due to its heat sensitivity to compostable materials. Furthermore, demolding of the fixture elements and / or preforms was very difficult in cases of high flexural modulus, leading to their breakage or excessive deformation of the rods. Therefore, satisfactory fixture elements and / or preforms could not be obtained, especially for the preparation of fixture elements with a height of less than 350 micrometers and / or bases with a thickness of less than 120 micrometers (particularly less than 100 micrometers).

[0208] Peel strength and shear strength values ​​for Comparative Example 4 could not be measured. This is because the material, which contains only polypropylene, cannot be molded. The molding of the fastener was partial, and therefore the molding cavity was not completely filled due to the material being too viscous. As a result, satisfactory fasteners and / or preforms could not be obtained, especially for fasteners with a height of less than 350 micrometers and / or bases with a thickness of less than 120 micrometers (particularly less than 100 micrometers).

[0209] Compare the values ​​of Examples 1, 2, and 6 with the values ​​of Comparison Examples 1, 2, and 4. Compare the values ​​of Examples 3-5 with the values ​​of Comparison Example 3. More specifically, compare the value of Example 1 with the value of Comparison Example 1. Compare the value of Example 6 with the value of Comparison Example 4.

[0210] For Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the peel strength and shear strength were measured on a fixture with a width of 15 mm.

[0211] For Example 3, peel strength and shear strength measurements were performed on a fixture with a width of 19 mm. The peel strength value was 3.6 + / - 1.5 N (or 2.8 + / - 1.2 N relative to a width of 15 mm), and the shear strength value was 76 + / - 20 N (or 60 + / - 16 N relative to a width of 15 mm).

[0212] For Example 4, peel strength and shear strength measurements were performed on a fixture with a width of 19 mm. The peel strength value was 2.6 + / - 1.2 N (or 2.1 + / - 1.0 N relative to a width of 15 mm), and the shear strength value was 60 + / - 20 N (or 47 + / - 16 N relative to a width of 15 mm).

[0213] For Example 5, peel strength and shear strength measurements were performed on a 22 mm wide fixture. The peel strength value was 3.2 + / - 1.4 N (or 2.2 + / - 1.0 N relative to a 15 mm width), and the shear strength value was 93 + / - 13 N (or 63 + / - 9 N ​​relative to a 15 mm width).

[0214] As can be seen, the peel strength values ​​of Examples 1, 2, and 6 are close to or even higher than those of Comparative Examples 1, 2, and 4. The same is true for the shear strength values.

[0215] It should be noted that Examples 3 to 5 should be compared with Comparative Example 3. However, although the peel strength values ​​of Examples 3 to 5 are lower than those of Comparative Examples 1 and 2, they are still satisfactory, especially for the intended application. The shear strength values ​​are lower than or even close to those of Comparative Examples 1 and 2.

[0216] Examples 1 through 6 allow for the acquisition of satisfactory fixtures that are compostable in industrial environments (e.g., according to standard EN 13432:2000); or that are based on compostable materials; and / or derived from biomass (e.g., according to standard EN16785-1:2016 and / or standard ASTM D 6866:2022); and / or that are always available for industrial composting and / or recycling at the end of their lifespan.

[0217] By comparing Example 6 and Comparative Example 4, it can be noted that the average performance (average peel and / or shear) of the fixing element is improved, while providing the same improved economic benefits, and most importantly, this is achieved by bypassing a single, demanding and very specific source of material supply and by using (selection) the large-scale (or wide-ranging) use of the first low-specificity or low-requirement material and the second low-specificity or low-requirement material as defined above.

[0218] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary examples, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the overall scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Furthermore, various features of the various examples mentioned can be combined in other examples. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A fixing device (50), comprising: -The base (52) extends in the longitudinal direction and has an upper surface and a lower surface; - Multiple fixing elements (54) extend from the upper surface of the base (52), each fixing element (54) including a rod (56). The fixing device (50) comprises, by weight percentage, a first thermoplastic material and a second material, particularly formed of the first thermoplastic material and the second material, wherein the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 200 MPa and less than or equal to 4500 MPa, as measured according to standard ISO 178:2019, and the second material is selected from the group consisting of: - A second thermoplastic material, the flexural modulus of which differs from that of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10% and / or at least 100 MPa; - Non-thermoplastic materials, whose mass percentage in the total assembly of the fixture is strictly greater than 1%, especially greater than or equal to 1.1%, especially greater than or equal to 1.2%; - Plant filler, which accounts for less than or equal to 30% of the total mass of the fixing device; or - A combination of the above materials.

2. The fixing device (50) according to claim 1, wherein the flexural modulus of the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 800 MPa and less than or equal to 4000 MPa.

3. The fixing device (50) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number-average molecular weight of the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 20,000 g / mol.

4. The fixing device (50) according to claim 3, wherein the second material comprises a non-thermoplastic material, the molecular weight of the non-thermoplastic material being at least 10% lower than the number average molecular weight of the first thermoplastic material and / or less than or equal to 15000 g / mol.

5. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the MFR of the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 1 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 10 g / 10 min, particularly greater than or equal to 15 g / 10 min; and / or less than or equal to 300 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 200 g / 10 min, particularly less than or equal to 170 g / 10 min.

6. The fixing device (50) according to claim 5, wherein the MFR of the second material, particularly the second thermoplastic material, differs from the MFR of the first thermoplastic material by at least 10% and / or at least 5 g / 10 min.

7. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the molecular weight of the non-thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 250 g / mol, particularly greater than or equal to 300 g / mol; and / or less than or equal to 19000 g / mol, particularly less than or equal to 15000 g / mol, particularly less than or equal to 10000 g / mol, more particularly less than or equal to 800 g / mol, and in some cases less than or equal to 550 g / mol.

8. The fastening device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first thermoplastic material is based on polyester and the second material comprises a non-thermoplastic material, the content of which in the total composition of the fastening device is greater than or equal to 1.5% by mass, particularly greater than or equal to 2%, particularly greater than or equal to 5%; and / or in the total composition of the fastening device is less than 2% or equal to 5% by mass, particularly less than or equal to 20%, particularly less than or equal to 18%, more precisely less than or equal to 15%, and in some cases less than or equal to 13%.

9. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the mass percentage ratio of the second material to the first thermoplastic material is greater than or equal to 0.02, particularly greater than or equal to 0.05, particularly greater than or equal to 0.1; and / or less than or equal to 0.30, particularly less than or equal to 0.25, particularly less than or equal to 0.

24.

10. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first thermoplastic material is a first polyolefin-based material, such as a first material based on a first polypropylene, and the second material comprises the second thermoplastic material, wherein the second thermoplastic material is a second polyolefin-based material, such as a second polypropylene.

11. The fixing device (50) according to claim 10, wherein the mass percentage ratio of the second thermoplastic material to the first thermoplastic material can be greater than or equal to 0.3, particularly greater than or equal to 0.45; and / or less than or equal to 0.7, particularly less than or equal to 0.

60.

12. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first thermoplastic material is based on a first polyester, and the second material comprises the second thermoplastic material, the second thermoplastic material being based on a second polyester.

13. The fixing device (50) according to claim 12, wherein the mass percentage ratio of the second thermoplastic material, such as the second polyester of the second thermoplastic material, to the first thermoplastic material, such as the first polyester of the first thermoplastic material, can be greater than or equal to 0.20, particularly greater than or equal to 0.30, particularly greater than or equal to 0.35; and / or less than or equal to 0.70, particularly less than or equal to 0.60, particularly less than or equal to 0.

55.

14. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each fixing element (54) includes a rod (56) covered by a head (58) in a first direction, for example in direction MD, the rod (56) having a proximal portion disposed on the side of the base (52) and a distal portion disposed on the side of the head (58), the width of the rod at its proximal portion being greater than the width of the rod at its distal portion.

15. The fixing device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the second material comprises mineral filler.

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