Blended liquid formulations for continuous production of biodegradable polymers

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to blended liquid biodegradable textile additives. The additive comprises a caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate and an antioxidant. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is formulated for transport in a liquid additive container.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 472,093, filed June 9, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to biodegradable polymer compositions suitable for textiles, and more specifically to blended liquid formulations of biodegradable polymer compositions. Background Technology

[0004] Textiles are fundamental to human culture and have been manufactured and used for millennia. The earliest known textiles were woven from natural fibers such as linen, wool, silk, and cotton. More recently, textile fibers, yarns, and fabrics have also been industrially produced from polymers such as polyester, nylon, olefins, other thermoplastic polymers, and combinations thereof. Many modern polymers can be made into virtually an endless variety of attractive, durable, and water-resistant shapes and products. In many cases, these synthetic fibers or yarns (depending on the desired technology and end product) can be blended with natural fibers to obtain a final product that combines the desired characteristics of both natural and synthetic materials, such as durability and water resistance.

[0005] While durability and water resistance are desirable, these same properties can lead to secondary environmental problems. Textiles made from polymer fibers do not biodegrade naturally in the same way as natural fibers and can remain in landfills and water bodies (e.g., lakes, oceans) for hundreds of years. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 44 million pounds of synthetic (polymer) textiles end up in landfills every day. Furthermore, much of the microfiber released from clothing during the laundry washing cycle is captured in sludge from wastewater treatment plants. This sludge is eventually discharged as biosolids to landfills or used as fertilizer. These polymer microfibers then accumulate in soil or other terrestrial environments and may even become mobile, eventually transferring them from land to aquatic environments. Some estimates suggest that approximately half a million tons of plastic microfibers generated from washing textiles are released into the ocean annually. Certain high surface area microfibers can absorb large toxin loads and mimic tiny plankton, ultimately accumulating in the food chain by orders of magnitude. In turn, such microfiber pollution can negatively impact human health because humans typically consume top predator species.

[0006] As another issue, items such as carpets and upholstery (both residential and commercial) are much larger in volume than clothing and often contain larger, more bulky yarns, thus potentially taking up significant landfill space.

[0007] In nonwoven environments, all types of “wiping materials” (usually nonwoven sheets or multiple sheets) that are now ubiquitous also occupy significant space and, even when considered “flushable,” may be prone to clogging municipal sewage systems, especially given the increased use of low-volume, low-flow toilets.

[0008] Given these environmental concerns, the development of biodegradable polymers has become a subject of strong academic and industrial interest.

[0009] Currently available biodegradable fibers still face various challenges in their manufacture. Typically, a masterbatch method is used to form biodegradable polymers. The biodegradable polymer can then be fed through an extruder or continuous polymerization line. However, masterbatch and extrusion are expensive and require additional compounding, drying, and crystallization steps. Furthermore, polycaprolactone (Mw 6400) (a known biodegradable polymer) in granular form is well-suited for the masterbatch method; however, its use in continuous polymerization processes is more difficult.

[0010] Furthermore, transporting materials to form biodegradable polymers is challenging in terms of both volume and cost. All materials must be shipped separately and then combined during a continuous polymerization process. Whether from the same supplier or independent suppliers, biodegradable fiber manufacturers must obtain each material separately.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need for biodegradable polymers suitable for forming textiles with desired properties similar to those of conventional textiles, which can be formed via continuous production (e.g., continuous polymerization) rather than masterbatch production, and formulated in a manner that improves ease of transport. Summary of the Invention

[0012] One or more embodiments of the present invention can solve one or more of the above-mentioned problems. According to specific embodiments of the present invention, additives, systems, methods, and kits for forming biodegradable textiles are provided. In particular, according to a first aspect, a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is provided. The additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In a particular embodiment, the additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0014] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0015] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0016] According to certain embodiments, biodegradable textile compositions can be provided. The biodegradable textile compositions may comprise terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, and polybutylene succinate. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate. In further embodiments, the composition may comprise 0.4 wt% to 1.2 wt% of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives.

[0017] According to certain embodiments, biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable textile compositions may be provided.

[0018] According to certain implementations, modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0019] According to certain embodiments, deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers made from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0020] According to some embodiments, a fabric made of deformed, biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers can be provided. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a woven fabric. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a knitted fabric. In a further embodiment, the fabric can be a nonwoven fabric.

[0021] According to certain implementation schemes, garments made of fabric may be provided.

[0022] According to certain implementation schemes, fabrics made of biodegradable polyester filaments may be provided.

[0023] On the other hand, a transport system for blended biodegradable textile additives is provided. This system includes a liquid additive container and a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives disposed within the container. The additives contain caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and antioxidants.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the liquid additive container may include a plastic container with an open end, a steel cage housing the plastic container, a removable cap coupled to the open end of the plastic container, and a valve disposed in the wall of the plastic container, the valve being configured to release a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from the plastic container. The cap may have an exterior-facing surface and an interior-facing surface, and a propeller may be disposed on the interior-facing surface of the cap. In some embodiments, the valve may be a ball valve. In some embodiments, the liquid additive container may be mounted on a tray. In a further embodiment, the tray may comprise plastic.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0026] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0027] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0028] In another aspect, a method for transporting a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is provided. The method includes forming a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, transferring the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into a liquid additive container having a lid and a propeller disposed on the inward-facing surface of the lid, placing the liquid additive container containing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive on a transport vehicle, and agitating the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive via the propeller during transport. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant.

[0029] According to some embodiments, forming a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives may include blending caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant under stirring. In some embodiments, transferring the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to a liquid additive container may include pumping the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives into the liquid additive container.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0031] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0032] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0033] In another aspect, a method for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments is provided. This method includes esterifying a raw material comprising terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol to form an esterification mixture; adding a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive to the esterification mixture; polymerizing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture to form a polymerization mixture; combining polybutylene succinate with the raw material, the esterification mixture, or the polymerization mixture such that a biodegradable polyester copolymer melt is formed after the polymerization step; and spinning the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt into biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the method may further include extruding polybutylene succinate to form extruded polybutylene succinate in combination with an esterification mixture or a polymerization mixture. In some embodiments, adding a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to the esterification mixture may include dispensing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives from a liquid additive container. In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives and the esterification mixture may be carried out on a continuous polymerization line. In other embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives and the esterification mixture may be carried out on a batch reactor. In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives and the esterification mixture occurs at a temperature of about 265°C to about 295°C.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant. In some embodiments, the composition may contain 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the composition may contain 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

[0036] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0037] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0038] According to certain implementation schemes, a method for forming fabrics from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0039] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. This method may include deforming the biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments.

[0040] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers can be provided. This method may include cutting deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers.

[0041] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester chips can be provided. This method may include granulating deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester chips.

[0042] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a deformable biodegradable polyester container can be provided. This method may include blow molding a deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer to form a deformable biodegradable polyester container.

[0043] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformable biodegradable polyester packaging can be provided. This method may include blow molding a deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer to form the deformable biodegradable polyester packaging.

[0044] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer yarn can be provided. This method may include spinning deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form yarn.

[0045] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer blended yarn can be provided. This method may include spinning modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers with one or more of cotton fibers and rayon fibers to form a blended yarn.

[0046] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a fabric from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers can be provided. In some embodiments, forming the fabric may include knitting deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric. In other embodiments, forming the fabric may include weaving deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric. In further embodiments, forming the fabric may include forming a nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, a method for forming garments from the fabric is provided.

[0047] In another aspect, a kit is provided for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. The kit includes a liquid additive container holding a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, polybutylene succinate, terephthalic acid, and ethylene glycol. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additives comprise caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and antioxidants.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the kit may contain 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the kit may contain 0.4 wt% to 1.2 wt% of additives.

[0050] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0051] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0052] On another front, blended liquid biodegradable textile additives are provided. These additives contain caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and antioxidants.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0054] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0055] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0056] According to certain embodiments, biodegradable textile compositions can be provided. The biodegradable textile compositions may comprise terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, blended liquid biodegradable textile additives, and solid system additives. The solid system additives may comprise polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the solid system additives may comprise 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the solid system additives may comprise 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of blended liquid biodegradable textile additives. In a further embodiment, the composition may comprise 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of solid system additives.

[0057] According to certain embodiments, biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable textile compositions may be provided.

[0058] According to certain implementations, modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0059] According to certain embodiments, deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers made from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0060] According to some embodiments, a fabric made of deformed, biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers can be provided. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a woven fabric. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a knitted fabric. In a further embodiment, the fabric can be a nonwoven fabric.

[0061] According to certain implementation schemes, garments made of fabric may be provided.

[0062] According to certain implementation schemes, fabrics made of biodegradable polyester filaments may be provided.

[0063] On the other hand, a transport system for blended biodegradable textile additives is provided. The system includes a liquid additive container and a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives disposed within the liquid additive container. The additives contain caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and antioxidants.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the liquid additive container may include a plastic container with an open end, a steel retainer housing the plastic container, a removable cap coupled to the open end of the plastic container, and a valve disposed in the wall of the plastic container, the valve being configured to release a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from the plastic container. The cap may have an externally facing surface and an internally facing surface, and a propeller may be disposed on the internally facing surface of the cap. In some embodiments, the valve may be a ball valve. In some embodiments, the liquid additive container may be mounted on a tray. In a further embodiment, the tray may comprise plastic.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0066] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0067] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0068] In another aspect, a method for transporting a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is provided. The method includes forming a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, transferring the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into a liquid additive container having a lid and a propeller disposed on the inward-facing surface of the lid, placing the liquid additive container containing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive on a transport vehicle, and agitating the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive via the propeller during transport. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and an antioxidant.

[0069] According to some embodiments, forming a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives may include blending caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and an antioxidant under stirring. In some embodiments, transferring the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to a liquid additive container may include pumping the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives into the liquid additive container.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0071] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0072] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0073] On the other hand, a method for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments is provided. This method includes esterifying a raw material comprising terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol to form an esterification mixture; adding a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive to the esterification mixture; polymerizing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture to form a polymerization mixture; combining a solid system additive with the raw material, the esterification mixture, or the polymerization mixture such that a biodegradable polyester copolymer melt is formed after the polymerization step; and spinning the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt into biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and an antioxidant. The solid system additive comprises polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the method may further include extruding a solid system additive to form an extruded solid system additive in combination with an esterification mixture or a polymerization mixture. In some embodiments, adding a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additive to an esterification mixture may include dispensing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from a liquid additive container. In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture may be carried out on a continuous polymerization line. In other embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture may be carried out on a batch reactor. In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture occurs at a temperature of about 265°C to about 295°C.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant. In some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the solid system additive may contain 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the composition may contain 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive. In a further embodiment, the composition may contain 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of the solid system additive.

[0076] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0077] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

[0078] According to certain implementation schemes, a method for forming fabrics from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided.

[0079] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. This method may include deforming the biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments.

[0080] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers can be provided. This method may include cutting deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers.

[0081] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester chips can be provided. This method may include granulating deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester chips.

[0082] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a deformable biodegradable polyester container can be provided. This method may include blow molding a deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer to form a deformable biodegradable polyester container.

[0083] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformable biodegradable polyester packaging can be provided. This method may include blow molding a deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer to form the deformable biodegradable polyester packaging.

[0084] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer yarn can be provided. This method may include spinning deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form yarn.

[0085] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer blended yarn can be provided. This method may include spinning modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers with one or more of cotton fibers and rayon fibers to form a blended yarn.

[0086] According to certain embodiments, a method for forming a fabric from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers can be provided. In some embodiments, forming the fabric may include knitting deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric. In other embodiments, forming the fabric may include weaving deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric. In further embodiments, forming the fabric may include forming a nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, a method for forming garments from the fabric is provided.

[0087] In another aspect, a kit is provided for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. The kit includes a liquid additive container holding a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, a solid system additive, terephthalic acid, and ethylene glycol. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and an antioxidant. The solid system additive comprises polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate.

[0088] According to some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the solid system additive may contain 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the kit may contain 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive. In a further embodiment, the kit may contain 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of the solid system additive.

[0090] According to some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. In some embodiments, polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

[0091] According to some embodiments, the antioxidant may comprise a phenolic antioxidant. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered. Attached Figure Description

[0092] The invention has already been described in general terms, and now reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0093] Figure 1 A liquid additive container according to certain embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0094] Figure 2 A liquid additive container according to certain embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0095] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Biodegradation of textiles according to certain embodiments of the present invention under ASTM D5210 is illustrated;

[0096] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C The biodegradation of textiles according to certain embodiments of the present invention under ASTM D5511 is shown; and

[0097] Figure 5 The biodegradation of textiles according to certain embodiments of the present invention is shown under ASTM D5988. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of the invention. In fact, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to enable this disclosure to meet applicable legal requirements. The same numerals always refer to the same elements. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0099] As described herein, this disclosure describes fibers having desired properties similar to conventional fibers, which are biodegradable and can be formed via continuous production rather than masterbatch production. More specifically, biodegradable polyester (polyethylene terephthalate or PET) fibers are disclosed. Components of these fibers configured for simplified bulk transport are also disclosed.

[0100] Therefore, biodegradable polyester (polyethylene terephthalate) fibers are described. Typically, masterbatch methods are used in conjunction with extrusion processes to form biodegradable polymers. However, masterbatches are expensive, require additional compounding, drying, and crystallization steps, making them difficult to implement, and biodegradable fibers are not widely available at an affordable price point. Continuous polymerization processes are more economical for polyester synthesis; however, polycaprolactone (a known biodegradable polymer) is in granular form and is well-suited for masterbatch methods but not for continuous polymerization.

[0101] To overcome these difficulties, this disclosure incorporates caprolactone monomers (a clear liquid) into polyesters in a continuous polymerization process. Caprolactone monomers are precursors to polycaprolactone, are biodegradable in nature, and impart other desired properties to the fibers, such as dye reinforcement. Compared to masterbatch methods that limit production throughput to approximately 2,000 to 4,000 pounds per hour per extruder, the use of caprolactone monomers on conventional continuous polymerization lines results in high throughput and low cost, with outputs exceeding 30,000 pounds per hour, or sometimes approximately 40,000 pounds per hour, or even 60,000 to 90,000 pounds per hour. In this way, by utilizing the formulation disclosed herein, a carrier polymer is not required, and at the end of the process, three times the amount of fiber achieved by the masterbatch process can be achieved through continuous polymerization, while also significantly reducing the cost of both materials and the process.

[0102] In addition, caprolactone monomers are almost completely consumed, or approximately completely consumed (e.g., values ​​less than 200 ppm).

[0103] To produce the biodegradable polymers of this disclosure, terephthalic acid (or purified terephthalic acid or PTA) and ethylene glycol (or monoethylene glycol or MEG) are reacted in a heated esterification reaction to produce monomers and oligomers of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol, as well as water as a byproduct. The esterification reaction can be carried out in one or more vessels; in some embodiments, two vessels are used, each being an esterifier. Pressure gradients are typically used to drive continuous polymerization processes. Alternatively, pumps can be used to drive the process. To allow the esterification reaction to be substantially completed, water and MEG are continuously removed. The monomers and oligomers formed via esterification are then catalytically polymerized via polycondensation to form polyethylene terephthalate (or PET) polyester. The polycondensation reaction can be carried out in one or more vessels, each being a polymerizer. In some embodiments, two vessels are used, a low-vacuum low-polymerizer and a high-vacuum high-polymerizer, as known in the art.

[0104] Polymerization continues until the desired molar weight of polyterephthalate is achieved. The residence time in the polymerization vessel and the feed rates of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid into the continuous process are determined in part based on the target molecular weight of the polyester. Since molecular weight can be determined by the intrinsic viscosity of the polymer melt, the intrinsic viscosity of the polymer melt is often used to determine polymerization conditions such as temperature, pressure, reactant feed rates, and residence time in the polymerization vessel.

[0105] After the polycondensation stage is complete, the polymer melt can be filtered and extruded. After extrusion, the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is quenched, for example by spraying with water, to cure the polyester. The cured PET can then be cut into slices for storage and handling purposes.

[0106] In some implementations, the polyester produced by this method is spun into filaments using conventional techniques known in the art.

[0107] In some implementations, the polyester produced by this method can be blow-molded into packaging and other products.

[0108] In some embodiments, the filaments produced by this method are deformed and cut into short fibers. Deformation is well known in the art and will not be described in detail elsewhere, except to point out that, so far, the compositions of the present invention can be used to produce filaments deformed using conventional steps (e.g., heat setting at the twisting position).

[0109] In some implementations, the short fibers produced by this method are spun into yarn.

[0110] In some implementations, short fibers can be formed into nonwoven fabrics.

[0111] In some implementations, short fibers are spun into blended yarns containing cotton or rayon. The yarn can then be used to form a fabric, which can be used to produce textiles, such as clothing. The fabric can be woven or knitted, and such fabrics are used to manufacture textiles and clothing. Similarly, nonwoven fabrics can be used to manufacture clothing and other textiles.

[0112] The resulting fibers, filaments, fabrics, and containers are biodegradable in landfill environments, marine environments, sewage sludge, and in seawater and freshwater, as well as other natural and non-natural environments containing microorganisms. The biodegradation timescale in the exemplary embodiments is comparable to that of natural fibers. In some embodiments, the degradation of the fibers or fabrics of this disclosure is substantially or largely completed in 3-4 years. In some or other embodiments, the degradation of the fibers or fabrics of this disclosure is substantially or largely completed in less than 3 years. In this way, the use of the fibers, filaments, fabrics, and containers described herein can significantly reduce the amount of plastic microfibers in the environment via biodegradation.

[0113] During the esterification and polycondensation reactions described above, caprolactone monomer and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) are added. In some embodiments, the caprolactone monomer and calcium carbonate can be added directly to the container containing the condensation product, such as a low-polymerizer. In some embodiments, the caprolactone monomer and calcium carbonate can be added to a transfer line between the esterifier and the polymerizer. Polybutylene succinate (PBS) can be added simultaneously or subsequently. The reaction is typically carried out at about 280°C (e.g., between about 265°C and 295°C). The caprolactone monomer, along with PBS and calcium carbonate, is incorporated into polyester fibers to form a biodegradable polyester material. Microorganisms digest the resulting fibers containing polycaprolactone, PBS, and calcium carbonate to break down the polymer chains and allow the fibers to biodegrade.

[0114] Although this invention is not limited to the mechanism of action via calcium carbonate, and although the inventors do not wish to be bound by any particular theory, the following assumptions appear reasonable. The presence of tiny inorganic particles of calcium carbonate mixed in a homogeneous organic polymer matrix introduces an excessive number of nucleation sites for biodegradation. The simultaneous addition of this calcium carbonate with other biodegradable components results in nucleation sites being very close to these components. Calcium ions can play an important role in bacterial growth. Calcium-binding proteins present in bacteria contribute to signal transduction and can facilitate important positive chemotaxis processes that allow bacteria to move to higher concentrations of chemicals.

[0115] According to this hypothesis, the presence of dispersed calcium carbonate accelerates the degradation of the polymer into monomers and oligomers through the hydrolysis of ester bonds by anaerobic bacteria. The presence of the metabolic byproduct carbon dioxide can also enhance the dissolution of calcium carbonate present in the polymer matrix.

[0116] Another mechanism by which calcium and calcium-binding proteins play a crucial role in bacteria is quorum sensing; that is, communication mechanisms in bacteria that optimize population growth. Individual bacteria act as generators of hydrogels composed of bacteria and extracellular polymeric materials, producing coordinated functional communities. This macroscopic structure amplifies bacterial activity and facilitates the biodegradation of the polymers according to the invention, particularly high-surface-area microfibers that can be incorporated into such hydrogels.

[0117] definition

[0118] As used herein, the term "biodegradable" means a material that, given suitable natural conditions and the presence of microorganisms, will decompose or break down into its basic components and return to the earth at a significantly faster scale than non-biodegradable materials. For the purposes of this disclosure, a non-biodegradable polymer is a polymer that degrades by less than 10% after 266 days according to ASTM D-5511 testing.

[0119] The term "polymer" refers to a large molecule (with a molecular weight exceeding 100 Daltons, typically several thousand Daltons) that contains many repeating units.

[0120] "Textiles" refers to a type of material consisting of natural and / or synthetic fibers, filaments or yarns, and can be knitted, woven or nonwoven.

[0121] The term "nonwoven fabric" is well known to those skilled in the art and is used herein in accordance with such understanding as those defined, such as those in Tortora, Phyllis G., and Robert S. Merkel. Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles. 7th ed. New York, NY: Fairchild Publications, 2009, p. 387. Thus, a nonwoven fabric is "a textile structure produced by the bonding or interlocking of fibers, or both; achieved by mechanical, chemical, thermal, or solvent means, or combinations thereof." Exemplary methods for forming a basic fiber web include carding, air-laying, and wet forming. These webs can be fixed or bonded by using adhesives (including low-melting-point fibers dispersed within the web), thermal bonding of suitable thermoplastic polymers, needle punching, hydroentangling (hydraulic entanglement), and spunbonding processes.

[0122] Those skilled in the art will understand that in the field of textiles, the term "spinning" has two distinct definitions, both of which are clear in context. In the formation of synthetic filaments, the term "spinning" refers to the step of extruding molten polymer into filaments. In the context of natural fibers or short fibers cut from deformed synthetic filaments, the term "spinning" is used in its most historical (dating back to antiquity) sense of twisting filaments into a cohesive yarn structure from which fabrics can be woven.

[0123] The fibers, yarns, and fabrics of the present invention may be characterized by their physical properties, for example, by the ASTM and / or AATCC tests described in the examples. For example, the degree of degradation of the fibers, yarns, and fabrics may be defined by ASTM tests based on the mass percentage of the biodegradable agent in the fiber. The molecular composition of the precursors, intermediates, and final products may be determined by conventional methods such as gel permeation chromatography, more preferably gradient analysis of polymer blends.

[0124] The ASTM and AATCC testing protocols are considered industry standards. These protocols generally do not change significantly over time; however, in case of any issues regarding the dates of these standards (not specified in this document), the standard that came into effect in April 2023 will be selected.

[0125] As used herein, in the context of synthetic fibers and their manufacture, the term "intrinsic viscosity" is used to describe a property that is proportional to the average molecular weight of the polymer. Intrinsic viscosity is calculated based on the viscosity extrapolated to a polymer solution (in a solvent) at zero concentration.

[0126] In the textile industry, the term "deformation" is used both broadly and specifically. In its broadest sense, deformation is used synonymously to refer to steps in which synthetic filaments, staple fibers, or yarns are mechanically treated, heat-treated, or both, to have a larger volume than untreated filaments, staple fibers, or yarns. In a narrower sense, the term deformation is used to refer to treatments that produce loops and crimps. This meaning is usually clear in the context. As used herein, the word "deformation" is used broadly to encompass all possibilities of producing the desired effect in filaments, staple fibers, or yarns.

[0127] "Between" is used to indicate a range of numbers that includes the numbers used. For example, "between about 10% and about 13%" includes both 10% and 13% as well as all numbers between 10% and 13%.

[0128] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, “percentage” or “%” means weight percentage. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, concentration and proportion refer to the concentration or proportion in the finished copolymer.

[0129] Blended liquid biodegradable textile additives

[0130] According to certain embodiments, the present invention includes additives, systems, methods, and kits for forming biodegradable textiles. In particular, according to a first aspect, blended liquid biodegradable textile additives are provided. In some embodiments, the additives comprise caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and antioxidants. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additives can be formulated for transport in the liquid additive containers described herein, enabling the liquid components to be shipped anywhere in the world due to their ease of handling, pre-proportioning, and convenience.

[0131] According to some embodiments, the additive may contain about 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer (e.g., Ingevity Capa® monomer). For example, in some embodiments, the additive may contain about 60% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In further embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 70% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In a particular embodiment, for example, the additive may contain about 75% by weight of caprolactone monomer. For example, according to certain embodiments, the additive may contain at least about 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78 and 79% by weight, and / or up to about 80, 79, 78, 77, 76, 75, 74, 73, 72, 71, 70, 69, 68, 67, 66, 65, 64, 63, 62, 61, 60, 59, 58, 57, 56, 55, 54, 53, 52 and 51% by weight of caprolactone monomer (e.g. about 69% to 77% by weight, about 52% to 79% by weight, etc.).

[0132] In some embodiments, the additive may contain about 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol (PEG). For example, in some embodiments, the additive may contain about 20% to 25% by weight of PEG. In further embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 21% to 24% by weight of PEG. In some embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 22% by weight of PEG. For example, according to some embodiments, the additive may contain at least about any of the following: 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24% by weight, and / or at most about 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, and 16% by weight of PEG (e.g., about 16% to 24% by weight, about 22% to 25% by weight, etc.). According to some embodiments, the polyethylene glycol may contain low molecular weight polyethylene glycol. Not intended to be theoretically limited, low molecular weight polyethylene glycol may be liquid at room temperature (including warm room temperature in the case of PEG 800). In some embodiments, the polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800). In a further embodiment, the polyethylene glycol may comprise polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) (Brenntag).

[0133] In some embodiments, the additive may contain about 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate. For example, in some embodiments, the additive may contain about 0.8% to 1.8% by weight of calcium carbonate. In further embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 1% to 1.6% by weight of calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 1.5% by weight of calcium carbonate. For example, according to certain embodiments, the additive may contain at least about any of the following: 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8 and 1.9% by weight, and / or up to about 2, 1.9, 1.8, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5, 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, 1.1, 1, 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6 and 0.5% by weight of calcium carbonate (e.g. about 0.7% to 1.8% by weight, about 1.4% to 2% by weight, etc.).

[0134] The compositions of the present invention can use fine calcium carbonate powder. The powder can have a mass-average particle size of less than 15 micrometers (μm), less than 10 μm, and in some embodiments less than 7 μm, and can be within the range of mass-average particle sizes between 0.1 μm and 10 μm, or between 1 μm and 8 μm, or between 5 μm and 8 μm. As is conventional, particle size can be measured by commercial optical analysis equipment or other conventional means. The surface area of ​​the calcium carbonate powder is at least 0.5 square meters per gram (m²). 2 / g); in some cases, at least 1.0m 2 / g, and in some implementations 0.5m 2 / g and 10m 2 Between / g. As is customary, surface area can be determined by methods such as the ISO 9277 standard for calculating the specific surface area of ​​solids, which is based on the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) theory.

[0135] Calcium carbonate particles can be ground to a size suitable for use as an additive. Functionally, this means that the particles can be ground as small as possible, and very small particles have no drawbacks.

[0136] However, the upper limit of particle size is defined in part by denier, rather than by professionals based on diameter. In these terms, the average particle size of calcium carbonate should not exceed 10% of the diameter of the extruded filament, and the maximum particle size should not exceed 20% of the diameter of the extruded filament, as particle sizes larger than approximately 10% of the filament diameter are more likely to cause breakage at all stages of production and use. For example, for fine denier fibers, calcium carbonate particles can have a particle size of approximately 1 μm to approximately 1.5 μm, while for coarser denier fibers, calcium carbonate particles can have a particle size of approximately 2 μm to approximately 4 μm.

[0137] As mentioned above, the lower limit is not critical; the main consideration is the increased difficulty and cost of producing smaller particles.

[0138] Therefore, as a practical example, 1 denier (1D) polyester fiber has a diameter of 10 micrometers (μm), which means that the calcium carbonate particle size should not exceed approximately 1 μm. Technicians can select the appropriate particle size based on this general 10% relationship.

[0139] In a further embodiment, the additive may contain about 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant. For example, in some embodiments, the additive may contain about 0.6% to 0.8% by weight of an antioxidant. In a further embodiment, for example, the additive may contain about 0.75% to 0.8% by weight of an antioxidant. In some embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 0.77% by weight of an antioxidant. For example, according to certain embodiments, the additive may contain at least any of the following: 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.3, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.4, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.5, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.6, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.7, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77, 0.78, 0.79, 0.8, 0. 81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.9, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98 and 0.99% by weight, and / or up to about 1, 0.99, 0.98, 0.97, 0.96, 0.95, 0.94, 0.93, 0.92, 0.91, 0.9, 0.89, 0.88, 0.87, 0.86, 0.85, 0.84, 0.83, 0.82, 0.81, 0.8, 0.79, 0.78, 0 0.77, 0.76, 0.75, 0.74, 0.73, 0.72, 0.71, 0.7, 0.69, 0.68, 0.67, 0.66, 0.65, 0.64, 0.63, 0.62, 0.61, 0.6, 0.59, 0.58, 0.57, 0.56, 0.55, 0.54, 0.53, 0.52, 0.51, 0.5, 0.49, 0.48, 0.47, 0.46, 0.45, 0.44, 0.43, 0.42, 0.41, 0.4, 0.39, 0.38, 0.37, 0.36, 0.35, 0.34, 0.33, 0.32, 0.31, 0.3, 0.29, 0.28, 0.27, 0.26, 0.25, 0.24, 0.23, 0.22, 0.21, 0.2, 0.19, 0.18, 0.17, 0.16, 0.15, 0.14, 0.13, 0.12, 0.11, 0.1, 0.09, 0.08, 0.07, 0.06, 0.05, 0.04, 0.03, and 0.02% by weight of antioxidants (e.g., about 0.55% to 0.93% by weight, about 0.72% to 0.78% by weight, etc.). According to some embodiments, the antioxidants may comprise phenolic antioxidants. In some embodiments, the phenolic antioxidant may be sterically hindered (e.g., BASF Irganox® 1010) or partially sterically hindered (e.g., Mayzo® BNX 245). The antioxidant may be included to prevent the oxidation of polyethylene glycol.

[0140] In other embodiments, calcium carbonate may not be included in the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, but may be added together with polybutylene succinate in the solid system additive, as described in more detail below. Alternatively, calcium carbonate may be replaced with ethylene glycol in the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive. In this way, ethylene glycol can dissolve the antioxidant, making the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive a transparent liquid. Because the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is a fully blended transparent liquid, continuous stirring is not required after initial mixing and during transport.

[0141] In such embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer. In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol. In a further embodiment, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.01% to 1% by weight of antioxidant.

[0142] In some embodiments, the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive may contain 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol. For example, in some embodiments, the additive may contain about 0.8% to 1.8% by weight of ethylene glycol. In further embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 1% to 1.6% by weight of ethylene glycol. In some embodiments, for example, the additive may contain about 1.5% by weight of ethylene glycol. For example, according to certain embodiments, the additive may contain at least about any of the following: 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8 and 1.9% by weight, and / or up to about 2, 1.9, 1.8, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5, 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, 1.1, 1, 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6 and 0.5% by weight of ethylene glycol (e.g. about 0.7% to 1.8% by weight, about 1.4% to 2% by weight, etc.).

[0143] Biodegradable textile compositions and methods

[0144] According to certain embodiments, biodegradable textile compositions may be provided. These compositions may comprise terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, and polybutylene succinate.

[0145] In some embodiments, the composition may contain about 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate (PBS). For example, in some embodiments, the composition may contain about 1,000 ppm to 1,500 ppm of PBS. In further embodiments, for example, the composition may contain about 1,000 ppm to 1,200 ppm of PBS. For example, according to certain embodiments, the composition may contain at least any of the following: 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600, 2700, 2800, 2900, 3000, 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500, 3600, 3700, 3800, 3900, 4000, 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, 5000, 5100, 52 00, 5300, 5400, 5500, 5600, 5700, 5800, 5900, 6000, 6100, 6200, 6300, 6400, 6500, 6600, 6700, 6800, 6900, 7000, 7100, 7200, 7300, 7400, 7500, 7600, 77 00, 7800, 7900, 8000, 8100, 8200, 8300, 8400, 8500, 8600, 8700, 8800, 8900, 9000, 9100, 9200, 9300, 9400, 9500, 9600, 9700, 9800 and 9900 ppm, and / or up to about 10,000, 9900, 9800, 9700, 9600, 9500, 9400, 9300, 9200, 9100, 9000, 8900, 8800, 8700, 8600, 8500, 8400, 8300, 8200, 8100, 8000, 7900, 7800, 7700, 7600, 7 500, 7400, 7300, 7200, 7100, 7000, 6900, 6800, 6700, 6600, 6500, 6400, 6300, 6200, 6100, 6000, 5900, 5800, 5700, 5600, 5500, 5400, 5300, 5200, 5100, 50 PBS at concentrations of 00, 4900, 4800, 4700, 4600, 4500, 4400, 4300, 4200, 4100, 4000, 3900, 3800, 3700, 3600, 3500, 3400, 3300, 3200, 3100, 3000, 2900, 2800, 2700, 2600, 2500, 2400, 2300, 2200, 2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400, 1300, 1200, 1100, 1000, and 900 ppm (e.g., approximately 1000 ppm to 7000 ppm, approximately 900 ppm to 1300 ppm, etc.).

[0146] In a further embodiment, the composition may comprise about 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. For example, in some embodiments, the composition may comprise about 0.6% to 0.8% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. In some embodiments, for example, the composition may comprise about 0.6% to 0.7% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. In a further embodiment, for example, the composition may comprise about 0.65% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. For example, according to certain embodiments, the composition may contain at least about any of the following: 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, 0.65, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.85, 0.9, 0.95, 1, 1.05, 1.1 and 1.15% by weight, and / or up to about 1.2, 1.15, 1.1, 1.05, 1, 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5 and 0.45% by weight of additives (e.g. about 0.6% to 0.9% by weight, about 0.65% to 0.85% by weight, etc.).

[0147] In other embodiments, the biodegradable textile composition may comprise terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, blended liquid biodegradable textile additives, and solid system additives. The solid system additives may comprise polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate.

[0148] In some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate. In some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 92% to 93% by weight of polybutylene succinate. In a further embodiment, the solid system additive may contain about 92.9% by weight of polybutylene succinate. For example, according to certain embodiments, the solid system additive may contain at least about any of the following: 91, 91.1, 91.2, 91.3, 91.4, 91.5, 91.6, 91.7, 91.8, 91.9, 92, 92.1, 92.2, 92.3, 92.4, 92.5, 92.6, 92.7, 92.8, 92.9, 93, 93.1, 93.2, 93.3, 93.4, 93.5, 93.6, 93.7, 93.8 and 93.9% by weight of polybutylene succinate, and / or up to Polybutylene succinate in amounts of approximately 94, 93.9, 93.8, 93.7, 93.6, 93.5, 93.4, 93.3, 93.2, 93.1, 93, 92.9, 92.8, 92.7, 92.6, 92.5, 92.4, 92.3, 92.2, 92.1, 92, 91.9, 91.8, 91.7, 91.6, 91.5, 91.4, 91.3, 91.2, and 91.1% by weight (e.g., approximately 91.5% to 93% by weight, approximately 92% to 92.9% by weight, etc.).

[0149] In some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain 7% to 8% by weight of calcium carbonate. In a further embodiment, the solid system additive may contain about 7.1% by weight of calcium carbonate. For example, according to some embodiments, the solid system additive may contain at least about any of the following: 6, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, 7, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.8, 7.9, 8, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6, 8.7, 8.8, and 8.9% by weight of calcium carbonate, and / or Up to about 9, 8.9, 8.8, 8.7, 8.6, 8.5, 8.4, 8.3, 8.2, 8.1, 8, 7.9, 7.8, 7.7, 7.6, 7.5, 7.4, 7.3, 7.2, 7.1, 7, 6.9, 6.8, 6.7, 6.6, 6.5, 6.4, 6.3, 6.2 and 6.1% by weight of calcium carbonate (e.g., about 6.5% to 8.4% by weight, about 7% to 8.8% by weight, etc.).

[0150] According to some embodiments, the solid system additive may comprise polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate in a ratio of about 4:1 to about 20:1. In some embodiments, the solid system additive may comprise polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate in a ratio of about 4:1 to 15:1. In a further embodiment, the solid system additive may comprise polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate in a ratio of about 13:1. For example, according to certain embodiments, the solid system additive may contain polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate in proportions of at least about the following: 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, 7:1, 8:1, 9:1, 10:1, 11:1, 12:1, 13:1, 14:1, 15:1, 16:1, 17:1, 18:1 and 19:1, and / or at most about 20:1, 19:1, 18:1, 17:1, 16:1, 15:1, 14:1, 13:1, 12:1, 11:1, 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1 and 5:1 (e.g. about 6:1 to 19:1, about 5:1 to 15:1, etc.).

[0151] In some embodiments, the composition may contain 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. For example, in some embodiments, the composition may contain about 0.6% to 0.8% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. In some embodiments, for example, the composition may contain about 0.6% to 0.7% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. In a further embodiment, for example, the composition may contain about 0.65% by weight of a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives. For example, according to certain embodiments, the composition may contain at least about any of the following: 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, 0.65, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.85, 0.9, 0.95, 1, 1.05, 1.1 and 1.15% by weight, and / or up to about 1.2, 1.15, 1.1, 1.05, 1, 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5 and 0.45% by weight of additives (e.g. about 0.6% to 0.9% by weight, about 0.65% to 0.85% by weight, etc.).

[0152] In some embodiments, the composition may contain 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of a solid system additive. In some embodiments, the composition may contain 0.1% to 0.2% by weight of a solid system additive. In a further embodiment, the composition may contain about 0.14% by weight of a solid system additive. For example, according to some embodiments, the composition may contain at least any of the following: 0.1, 0.12, 0.14, 0.16, 0.18, 0.2, 0.22, 0.24, 0.26, 0.28, 0.3, 0.32, 0.34, 0.36, 0.38, 0.4, 0.42, 0.44, 0.46, 0.48, 0.5, 0.52, 0. 54, 0.56, 0.58, 0.6, 0.62, 0.64, 0.66, 0.68, 0.7, 0.72, 0.74, 0.76, 0.78, 0.8, 0.82, 0.84, 0.86, 0.88, 0.9, 0.92, 0.94, 0.96, 0.98, 1, 1.2, and 1.4% by weight of solid additives, and / or up to approximately 1.5, 1.4, 1.2, 1, 0.98, 0.96, 0.94, 0.92, 0.9, 0.88, 0.86, 0.84, 0.82, 0.8, 0.78, 0.76, 0.74, 0.72, 0.7, 0.68, 0.66, 0.64, 0.62, 0.6, 0.58, 0.56, 0.54, 0.52, 0.5, 0. 48, 0.46, 0.44, 0.42, 0.4, 0.38, 0.36, 0.34, 0.32, 0.3, 0.28, 0.26, 0.24, 0.22, 0.2, 0.18, 0.16, 0.14 and 0.12% by weight of solid system additives (e.g., about 0.12% to 1.1% by weight, about 0.1% to 0.8% by weight, etc.).

[0153] By including calcium carbonate in the solid-state additives, rather than in the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives, precipitation of calcium carbonate from the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives is prevented. This improves filtration and biodegradability.

[0154] In another aspect, a method for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments is provided. The method includes esterifying terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol to form an esterification mixture, adding a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive to the esterification mixture, polymerizing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterification mixture to form a polymerization mixture, combining extruded polybutylene succinate with the esterification mixture or the polymerization mixture such that a biodegradable polyester copolymer melt is formed after the polymerization step, and spinning the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt into biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments.

[0155] According to some embodiments, the method may further include extruding polybutylene succinate to form extruded polybutylene succinate. In some embodiments, depending on any additional additives contained in the mixture, the polybutylene succinate may be extruded and processed at approximately 170°C to 260°C. The extruded polybutylene succinate may be added from the final stage of esterification to the completed polymerization stage. In this way, after the polybutylene succinate has been melted in the extruder, it may be injected into the polymer stream downstream of the polymerization process. Optionally, the polybutylene succinate may be added earlier in the process, as it has already polymerized and blended with other polymers. For example, polybutylene succinate (as solid polymer pellets) may be added to the paste tank along with other continuous polymerization line feedstocks, thereby eliminating the need for an extruder in the continuous polymerization line.

[0156] In embodiments using a solid system additive comprising both polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate, the polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate can be compounded during the extrusion process to form the solid system additive. Alternatively, the polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate can be combined prior to the extrusion process, allowing the solid system additive to be added in a single step. In any of these options, the solid system additive can be added to a continuous polymerization line via a side-flow extruder.

[0157] In some embodiments, adding a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to the esterification mixture may include dispensing the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives from a liquid additive container. The blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives may be added between the final stage of esterification and the initial stage of polymerization. In this way, the polyethylene glycol and caprolactone monomers in the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives can undergo the desired polymerization without unnecessary esterification.

[0158] In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture can be carried out on a continuous polymerization line. In other embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture can be carried out in a batch reactor. In some embodiments, the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture occurs at a temperature of about 265°C to about 295°C.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will recognize that other types of additives can be incorporated into the polymers of the present invention. As a non-limiting example, anatase titanium dioxide, one or more fluorescent whitening agents, and blue pigments can be added. Such additives include, but are not limited to, matting agents, pre-process heating rate enhancers, friction-reducing additives, UV absorbers, inert particulate additives (e.g., clay or silica), colorants, pigments, antioxidants, branching agents, oxygen barrier agents, carbon dioxide barrier agents, oxygen scavengers, flame retardants, crystallization control agents, acetaldehyde reducing agents, impact modifiers, catalyst deactivators, melt strength enhancers, antistatic agents, lubricants, chain extenders, nucleating agents, solvents, fillers, and plasticizers.

[0160] In some implementations, the fibers in the yarn or textile may have a denier per filament (dpf) ranging from 0.5 to 50 or 2 to 30, or up to 1,000. Denier of the fiber is considered not critical in biodegradability because fiber textiles typically have sufficient surface area to support bacterial growth.

[0161] The textile preferably has dimensional stability, such that the textile maintains its shape and shrinks less than 10%, or less than 5%, or less than 3%, as measured by the household washing test AATCC 135-2015 1IIAii (machine wash at 80F, tumble dry, five wash cycles).

[0162] Textiles or fibers may be colored (e.g., red, blue, green, etc.) and preferably have a colorfastness of at least grade 3, 4, or 5 as measured by AATCC 61-2013 2A (mod 105 F), AATCC 8-2016, or AATCC 16.3-2014 (option 3, 20 AFU). Textile sheets (e.g., fabric samples cut from shirts or trousers) preferably have a bursting strength of at least 20 psi, preferably at least 50 psi, or at least 100 psi, or in the range of 50 psi to about 200 psi, or 50 psi to about 150 psi, wherein the bursting strength is measured to be 30 according to ASTM D3786 / D3886M-13.

[0163] In some implementations, the fabric is free from pilling or fuzziness (according to grade 5 of ASTM D 3512M-16).

[0164] In some embodiments, the textile core absorbs water; this is particularly desirable in clothing where sweat is drawn from the wearer's core; in some embodiments, the fabric absorbs water from the core by at least 10 mm or at least 20 mm, or over a distance of about 10 mm or about 20 mm to about 150 mm, within 2 minutes; as measured by AATCC 197-2013.

[0165] Those skilled in the art will also understand that, in some embodiments, the compositions disclosed herein may be in the form of a melt intermediate, and in the most common textile applications, the melt may be extruded in the form of pellets or filaments. Extruding and quenching the melt as pellets provides opportunities for storing, transporting, and remelting the pellets at various locations; for example, at the customer's location.

[0166] When the quenched filaments from the composition are morphed using techniques well known to those skilled in the art, the morphed filaments can then be directly used to form fabrics (“filament yarns”), or the morphed filaments can be cut into short fibers. These short fibers can then be spun into yarns, most commonly in open systems, but obviously also in ring spinning. The yarns can then be formed into fabrics (woven, knitted, nonwoven), or can be blended with other polymers (e.g., rayon) or with natural fibers (cotton or wool) to form blended yarns, which can then be made into fabrics with the properties of blended fibers.

[0167] This invention also includes blending intermediates, fibers, yarns, and textiles. Examples of finished products according to the invention include: knitted fabrics, woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, clothing, upholstery, carpets, bedding such as sheets or pillowcases, and industrial fabrics for agricultural or construction use. Examples of clothing include: shirts, trousers, bras, underwear, hooded underwear, coats, skirts, dresses, leggings, stretch pants, and scarves.

[0168] For example, according to some embodiments, biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable textile compositions can be provided. According to some embodiments, deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments made from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. According to some embodiments, deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers made from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. According to some embodiments, fabrics made from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers can be provided. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a woven fabric. In some embodiments, the fabric can be a knitted fabric. In a further embodiment, the fabric can be a nonwoven fabric. According to some embodiments, garments made from the fabric can be provided. According to some embodiments, fabrics made from biodegradable polyester filaments can be provided.

[0169] Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, a method for forming a fabric from biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments can be provided. This method may include deforming the biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers can be provided. This method may include cutting the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester chips can be provided. This method may include granulating the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments to form deformed biodegradable polyester chips. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester containers can be provided. This method may include blow molding the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer to form deformed biodegradable polyester containers. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester packaging can be provided. This method may include blow molding the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer to form deformed biodegradable polyester packaging. According to certain embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer yarns can be provided. This method may include spinning deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form yarn. According to some embodiments, a method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer blended yarn may be provided. This method may include spinning deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers with one or more of cotton fibers and rayon fibers to form blended yarn. According to some embodiments, a method for forming a fabric from deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers may be provided. In some embodiments, forming a fabric may include knitting deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form a fabric. In other embodiments, forming a fabric may include weaving deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form a fabric. In further embodiments, forming a fabric may include forming a nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, a method for forming garments from the fabric is provided.

[0170] As used herein, the terms “nap” and “napping” or “napped” refer to well-known finishing processes in the manufacture of textiles, see, for example, Tortora above, pp. 378-79. In this document, the invention may also be applied to polar fleece; i.e., a soft, napped insulating fabric typically made of polyester.

[0171] When suitable filaments are formed, the compositions according to the invention are expected to function very well as fillings for thermally insulating clothing.

[0172] The properties, structure, and many variations of thermal insulation clothing are well known to those skilled in the art. Essentially, the insulation material is encapsulated in a lightweight shell, of which low-denier nylon is typical, and usually includes a water-repellent treatment that can withstand at least some sedimentation.

[0173] Based on compressibility, loft, and warmth-to-weight ratio, down is undoubtedly the best insulation material. However, when wet, synthetic fillings such as those of this invention offer lower cost and better insulation, even if they are slightly heavier and slightly less compressible.

[0174] As another example, the filaments, fibers, and yarns according to the invention are expected to perform very well as a component of biodegradable carpets or such carpets. As is well known to those skilled in the art, carpets are textile floor coverings typically formed from pile yarns or tufted yarns attached to a backing. Before the advent of synthetic materials, and still in use today, the pile was typically made of wool, and the backing was made of a woven fabric in which yarns could be woven, tufted, or otherwise attached.

[0175] Those skilled in the art often use the terms "carpet" and "rug" interchangeably, although in some contexts "carpet" covers an entire room ("wall-to-wall carpet"), while "rug" covers an area smaller than the entire room.

[0176] Because synthetic materials such as nylon, polypropylene, polyester, and their blends with wool are useful carpet materials, the fibers or yarns formed by this invention are perfectly suited and can be used for carpets. Those skilled in the art will recognize a wide variety of backing materials, backing structures, and means of attaching pile or tufts to the backing. Repeating all such possibilities is redundant rather than clarifying, and those skilled in the art can employ the necessary materials and steps in any given context without excessive experimentation.

[0177] Transportation systems, methods and kits

[0178] On the other hand, a transport system for blended biodegradable textile additives is provided. The system includes a liquid additive container and a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives disposed within the liquid additive container.

[0179] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2A system for transporting blended biodegradable textile additives 100 is illustrated. As described herein, embodiments of the blended biodegradable textile additive transport system 100 may include a liquid additive container 101 configured to store and transport the blended biodegradable textile additives 103. As described herein, embodiments of the blended biodegradable textile additive transport system 100 may include a plastic container 102 having an open end 104, a steel retainer 106 housing the plastic container 102, a cap 108 removably coupled to the open end 104 of the plastic container 102, and a valve 112 disposed in the wall of the plastic container 102. The plastic container 102 may also include an agitator 111 disposed at or near the bottom of the plastic container 102, opposite the open end 104 and the cap 108, such that the agitator 111 operates directly above (e.g., 1 inch to 2 inches above the bottom) the plastic container 102 to keep solids off the bottom and in good suspension. The agitator propeller 111 may include high-shear propeller blades (e.g., about 5 inches in diameter) connected to and powered by an electric agitator drive motor 109 via a shaft 105. A valve 112 may be configured to release a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive 103 from a plastic container 102. In some embodiments, the valve 112 may be a ball valve. In a further embodiment, the liquid additive container 101 may be mounted on a tray 114. In some embodiments, the tray 114 may comprise plastic (e.g., medium to high density polyethylene).

[0180] In another aspect, a method for transporting a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is provided. The method includes forming a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, transferring the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into a liquid additive container having a lid and a propeller disposed on the inward-facing surface of the lid, placing the liquid additive container containing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive on a transport vehicle, and agitating the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive via the propeller during transport. In embodiments where a solid system additive is used and ethylene glycol is used instead of calcium carbonate in the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, continuous agitation may be used but may not be necessary because ethylene glycol dissolves antioxidants, resulting in a transparent liquid blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, as previously discussed herein.

[0181] According to some embodiments, forming a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives may include blending caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant under agitation. For example, in some embodiments, caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate, and an antioxidant may be added to a large (e.g., 2000-gallon) mixing tank having high-shear mixing blades (e.g., 3-4 feet in diameter), and agitated to suspend the components before adding the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to a liquid additive container. In other embodiments, forming a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives may include blending caprolactone monomers, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and an antioxidant under agitation in the same manner as in the embodiments described above where the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives contains calcium carbonate. In some embodiments, transferring the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to a liquid additive container may include pumping the blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives into the liquid additive container.

[0182] In another aspect, a kit is provided for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments. In some embodiments, the kit may include a liquid additive container containing a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives comprising calcium carbonate, polybutylene succinate, terephthalic acid, and ethylene glycol. In other embodiments, the kit may include a liquid additive container containing a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives comprising ethylene glycol (but not calcium carbonate), terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol, and a solid additive system comprising polybutylene succinate and calcium carbonate.

[0183] Example 1: System and method for transporting blended liquid biodegradable textile additives

[0184] The amounts of caprolactone monomer (Ingevity Capa® monomer), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400, Brenntag), antioxidant (Mayzo® BNX 245), and calcium carbonate shown in Table 1 were blended in a mixing tank under stirring and then transferred via pump to a 275-gallon polyethylene container. The 275-gallon container holds 2204.6 bs 1 MT of total liquid. The container has an agitator port for stirring and includes a ball valve for liquid discharge. The container is mounted on a plastic tray, with a protective cage surrounding the container body.

[0185] Table 1

[0186]

[0187] A liquid blend of approximately 65 pph is fed into a continuous polymerization line that operates at 10,000 pph and is directly connected to a fiber spinning machine.

[0188] Example 2: Transporting blended liquid biodegradable textile additives in combination with solid system additives Systems and Methods

[0189] All amounts of caprolactone monomer (Ingevity Capa® monomer), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG400, Brenntag), and ethylene glycol (“MEG”, Dow) as shown in Table 2 were blended at room temperature, and the antioxidant (Mayzo® BNX 245) was dissolved in the blended liquid at room temperature. The components were then blended in a mixing tank with stirring and transferred via pump to 275-gallon polyethylene containers. The 275-gallon containers held 2204.6 bs 1 MT of total liquid. The containers had a stirrer port for stirring and included a ball valve for liquid discharge. The containers were mounted on a plastic tray, with a protective cage surrounding the container body.

[0190] Table 2

[0191]

[0192] As previously described, the liquid blend was combined with solid system additives. Polybutylene succinate (Mitsubishi BioPBS™ FZ) and calcium carbonate (Specialty Minerals Inc. SUPER-PFLEX®) were blended with underwater granulation in the amounts shown in Table 3. The granules were then dried to <1500 ppm water and sorted to remove defects.

[0193] Table 3

[0194]

[0195] A liquid blend of approximately 65 pph is fed together with a solid additive system fed at 14 pph via a side-flow extruder into a continuous polymerization line that operates at 10,000 pph and is directly connected to a fiber spinning machine.

[0196] Example 3: Biodegradability of textile compositions

[0197] ASTM D5210

[0198] According to ASTM D5210, anaerobic biodegradation tests were conducted on sample textiles using anaerobic digested sewage sludge inoculum under anaerobic conditions to measure total carbon dioxide and methane gas over time, as well as the weight of soluble organic carbon and residual polymers at the end of the test, to determine biodegradability. The inoculum used to generate the data in Table 4 below was obtained from a hot, dry environment unfavorable to microbial activity.

[0199] Table 4

[0200]

[0201] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, following the positive reference material 302 (cellulose), sample textile 306 exhibited significantly higher levels of biodegradation than both the negative control 300 (polypropylene) and the control polyester textile 304. Furthermore, Figure 3B The results show that, compared to the negative control 308 and the control polyester textile 304, sample textile 306 continued to degrade over a significant period of time.

[0202] ASTM D5511

[0203] Anaerobic biodegradation tests were also conducted on sample textiles using anaerobic digested sewage sludge inoculum under high-solids anaerobic conditions, according to ASTM D5511, to determine the percentage of carbon from the test material converted into carbon (CH4 and CO2) in the gas phase. The inoculum used to generate the data in Table 5 below was obtained from a hot, dry environment unfavorable to microbial activity.

[0204] Table 5

[0205]

[0206] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, following the positive reference material 402 (cellulose), sample textile 406 exhibited significantly higher levels of biodegradation than both the negative control 400 (polypropylene) and the control polyester textile 404. Furthermore, Figure 4B The results show that, compared to the negative control 400 and the control polyester textile 404, sample textile 406 continued to degrade over a significant period of time.

[0207] In contrast to the results shown in Table 5 above, the results shown in Table 6 below were obtained using anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge inoculum from a humid and warm atmosphere that is more conducive to microbial activity.

[0208] Table 6

[0209]

[0210] As can be seen in Table 6 above, after the positive reference material (cellulose), the sample textiles showed a significantly higher amount of biodegradation than the control polyester textiles.

[0211] Referring to Table 7, various example sample compositions of this disclosure are shown, which were also tested for biodegradability under ASTM D5511. The test results of these example compositions are shown in... Figure 4CAs will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, the components of the sample additives listed in Table 7 (e.g., caprolactone monomer, PBS, and calcium carbonate) represent only a portion of the fibers produced using these additives. For example, the value of 4.9 g of caprolactone monomer in the additive can represent 0.0049% by weight in the fibers produced using this additive. This relationship between the values ​​listed in Table 7 and the weight % in the fibers can be applied to each component listed in Table 7.

[0212] Table 7

[0213]

[0214] like Figure 4C As shown, each test sample (e.g., Sample 1-A 410, Sample 1-B 412, Sample 1-C 414, Sample 1-D 416, Sample 1-E 418 and Sample 1-F 420) showed a significantly higher amount of biodegradation than the control standard polyester 408.

[0215] ASTM D5988

[0216] The sample textiles were further subjected to aerobic biodegradation testing in soil inoculum according to ASTM D5988 to measure the carbon dioxide (CO2) released by microorganisms over time. The soil inoculum used to generate the data in Table 8 below was obtained from a hot, dry environment unfavorable to microbial activity.

[0217] Table 8

[0218]

[0219] like Figure 5 As shown, after the positive reference material 506 (cellulose), the sample textile 504 consistently showed significantly higher levels of biodegradation than both the negative control 502 (polypropylene) and the control polyester textile 500 for a period of time.

[0220] ISO 19679

[0221] The sample textiles were further tested for aerobic biodegradation in seawater and sand inoculum according to ISO 19679 to measure the carbon dioxide (CO2) released by the microorganisms over time. The results of this test are summarized in Table 9 below.

[0222] Table 9

[0223]

[0224] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will conceive of modifications to the invention set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and is not intended to be limiting.

Claims

1. A blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Calcium carbonate; and Antioxidants.

2. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to claim 1, wherein the additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

3. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

4. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate.

5. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

6. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

7. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

8. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

9. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to claim 8, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

10. A biodegradable textile composition comprising: Terephthalic acid; Ethylene glycol; The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive as described in any of the preceding claims; and Polybutylene succinate.

11. The biodegradable textile composition of claim 10, wherein the composition comprises 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate.

12. The biodegradable textile composition according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the composition comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

13. A biodegradable polyester copolymer filament made from any one of the biodegradable textile compositions of claims 10 to 12.

14. A modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filament made from the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 13.

15. A modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber made from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 14.

16. A fabric made from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers of claim 15.

17. The fabric of claim 16, wherein the fabric is a woven fabric.

18. The fabric of claim 16, wherein the fabric is a knitted fabric.

19. The fabric of claim 16, wherein the fabric is a nonwoven fabric.

20. A garment made of any one of claims 16 to 19.

21. A fabric made from the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 13.

22. A garment made of the fabric of claim 21.

23. A transport system for a blended biodegradable textile additive, the system comprising: Containers for liquid additives; and A blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives disposed in the liquid additive container, the additives comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Calcium carbonate; and Antioxidants.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the liquid additive container comprises: Plastic containers with open ends; A steel retainer housing the plastic container; A cap removably attached to the open end of the plastic container, wherein the cap has an outward-facing surface and an inward-facing surface, and wherein a propeller is arranged on the inward-facing surface of the cap; and A valve disposed in the wall of the plastic container, the valve being configured to release the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from the plastic container.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the valve is a ball valve.

26. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

27. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

28. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate.

29. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

30. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

31. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 30, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

32. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 31, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

34. The system according to any one of claims 23 to 33, wherein the liquid additive container is mounted on a tray.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein the tray comprises plastic.

36. A method for transporting a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, the method comprising: A liquid biodegradable textile additive that forms a blend, comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Calcium carbonate; and Antioxidants The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is transferred to a liquid additive container having a lid and a propeller disposed on the inward-facing surface of the lid. The liquid additive container, containing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, is placed on a transport vehicle; and The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is agitated by the propeller during transport.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein forming the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises blending the caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, calcium carbonate and antioxidant under stirring.

38. The method of claim 36 or 37, wherein transferring the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into the liquid additive container comprises pumping the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into the liquid additive container.

39. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

40. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

41. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate.

42. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 41, wherein the additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

43. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

44. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 43, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

45. The method according to any one of claims 36 to 44, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

47. A method for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments, the method comprising: The raw materials containing terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol are esterified to form an esterified mixture; Add a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to the esterified mixture, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives comprise: caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, Calcium carbonate, and Antioxidants; The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture are polymerized to form a polymeric mixture; Polybutylene succinate is combined with raw materials, esterification mixtures, or polymerization mixtures to form a biodegradable polyester copolymer melt after the polymerization step; and The biodegradable polyester copolymer melt is spun into the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

48. The method of claim 47, further comprising extruding polybutylene succinate to form extruded polybutylene succinate in combination with the esterification mixture or the polymerization mixture.

49. The method of claim 47 or 48, wherein adding the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive to the esterified mixture comprises dispensing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from a liquid additive container.

50. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture is carried out on a continuous polymerization line.

51. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture is carried out in a batch reactor.

52. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 51, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

53. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 52, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

54. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 53, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate.

55. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 54, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

56. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 55, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate.

57. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 56, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

58. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 57, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

59. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 58, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

60. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 59, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

62. The method according to any one of claims 47 to 61, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture occurs at a temperature of about 265°C to about 295°C.

63. A method for forming a deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament, the method comprising deforming the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament produced by any one of claims 47 to 62 to form the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

64. A method for forming a deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber, the method comprising cutting the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 63 to form a deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber.

65. A method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester chips, the method comprising granulating the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 63 to form deformed biodegradable polyester chips.

66. A method of forming a deformable biodegradable polyester container, the method comprising blow molding the deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer of claim 63 to form a deformable biodegradable polyester container.

67. A method of forming a deformable biodegradable polyester packaging, the method comprising blow molding the deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer of claim 63 to form the deformable biodegradable polyester packaging.

68. A method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer yarn, the method comprising spinning the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber of claim 64 to form a yarn.

69. A method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer blended yarn, the method comprising spinning the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber of claim 64 with one or more of cotton fiber and rayon fiber to form a blended yarn.

70. A method for forming a fabric from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers of claim 64.

71. The method of claim 70, wherein forming the fabric comprises knitting the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric.

72. The method of claim 70, wherein forming the fabric comprises weaving the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric.

73. The method of claim 70, wherein forming the fabric comprises forming a nonwoven fabric.

74. A method for forming garment from the fabric of any one of claims 70 to 73.

75. A method for forming a fabric from any one of claims 47 to 62 of a biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

76. A kit for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments, said kit comprising: A liquid additive container for containing a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives comprise: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Calcium carbonate; and Antioxidants; Polybutylene succinate; terephthalic acid; and Ethylene glycol.

77. The kit of claim 76, wherein the additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

78. The kit according to claim 76 or 77, wherein the additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

79. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 78, wherein the additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of calcium carbonate.

80. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 79, wherein the additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

81. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 80, wherein the kit comprises 800 ppm to 10,000 ppm of polybutylene succinate.

82. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 81, wherein the kit comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of additives.

83. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 82, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

84. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 83, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

85. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 84, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

86. The kit of claim 85, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

87. A blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Ethylene glycol; and Antioxidants.

88. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive of claim 87, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

89. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to claim 87 or 88, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

90. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any one of claims 87 to 89, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol.

91. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any one of claims 87 to 90, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

92. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any one of claims 87 to 91, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

93. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any one of claims 87 to 92, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

94. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to any one of claims 87 to 93, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

95. The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive according to claim 94, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

96. A biodegradable textile composition comprising: Terephthalic acid; Ethylene glycol; The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive as described in any of the preceding claims; and Solid system additives, which include: Polybutylene succinate; and Calcium carbonate.

97. The biodegradable textile composition of claim 96, wherein the solid system additive comprises 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate.

98. The biodegradable textile composition according to claim 96 or 97, wherein the solid system additive comprises 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate.

99. The biodegradable textile composition according to any one of claims 96 to 98, wherein the composition comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

100. The biodegradable textile composition according to any one of claims 96 to 99, wherein the composition comprises 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of a solid system additive.

101. A biodegradable polyester copolymer filament made from any one of the biodegradable textile compositions of claims 96 to 100.

102. A modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filament made from the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 101.

103. A modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber made from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 102.

104. A fabric made from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers of claim 103.

105. The fabric of claim 104, wherein the fabric is a woven fabric.

106. The fabric of claim 104, wherein the fabric is a knitted fabric.

107. The fabric of claim 104, wherein the fabric is a nonwoven fabric.

108. A garment made of any one of claims 104 to 107.

109. A fabric made from the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 101.

110. A garment made of the fabric of claim 109.

111. A transport system for a blended biodegradable textile additive, the system comprising: Containers for liquid additives; and A blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives disposed in the liquid additive container, the additives comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Ethylene glycol; and Antioxidants.

112. The system of claim 111, wherein the liquid additive container comprises: Plastic containers with open ends; A steel retainer housing the plastic container; A cap removably attached to the open end of the plastic container, wherein the cap has an outward-facing surface and an inward-facing surface, and wherein a propeller is arranged on the inward-facing surface of the cap; and A valve disposed in the wall of the plastic container, the valve being configured to release the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from the plastic container.

113. The system of claim 112, wherein the valve is a ball valve.

114. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 113, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

115. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 114, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

116. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 115, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol.

117. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 116, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

118. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 117, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

119. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 118, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

120. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 119, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

121. The system of claim 120, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

122. The system according to any one of claims 111 to 121, wherein the liquid additive container is mounted on a tray.

123. The system of claim 122, wherein the tray comprises plastic.

124. A method for transporting a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, the method comprising: A liquid biodegradable textile additive that forms a blend, comprising: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Ethylene glycol; and Antioxidants The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is transferred to a liquid additive container having a lid and a propeller disposed on the inward-facing surface of the lid. The liquid additive container, containing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive, is placed on a transport vehicle; and The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive is agitated by the propeller during transport.

125. The method of claim 124, wherein forming the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises blending the caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and antioxidant under stirring.

126. The method of claim 124 or 125, wherein transferring the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into the liquid additive container comprises pumping the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive into the liquid additive container.

127. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 126, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

128. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 127, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

129. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 128, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol.

130. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 129, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

131. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 130, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

132. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 131, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

133. The method according to any one of claims 124 to 132, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

134. The method of claim 133, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

135. A method for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments, the method comprising: The raw materials containing terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol are esterified to form an esterified mixture; Add a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives to the esterified mixture, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives comprise: caprolactone monomer, polyethylene glycol, Ethylene glycol, and Antioxidants; The blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture are polymerized to form a polymeric mixture; Combining a solid system additive with the raw material, the esterification mixture, or the polymerization mixture to form a biodegradable polyester copolymer melt after the polymerization step, wherein the solid system additive comprises: Polybutylene succinate, and Calcium carbonate; and The biodegradable polyester copolymer melt is spun into the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

136. The method of claim 135, further comprising extruding the solid system additive to form an extruded solid system additive in combination with the esterified mixture or the polymerized mixture.

137. The method of claim 135 or 136, wherein adding the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive to the esterified mixture comprises dispensing the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive from a liquid additive container.

138. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 137, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture is carried out on a continuous polymerization line.

139. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 137, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture is carried out in a batch reactor.

140. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 139, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

141. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 140, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

142. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 141, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol.

143. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 142, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

144. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 143, wherein the solid system additive comprises 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate.

145. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 144, wherein the solid system additive comprises 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate.

146. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 145, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

147. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 146, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of solid system additives.

148. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 147, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

149. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 148, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600) or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

150. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 149, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

151. The method of claim 150, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

152. The method according to any one of claims 135 to 151, wherein the polymerization of the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive and the esterified mixture occurs at a temperature of about 265°C to about 295°C.

153. A method for forming a deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament, the method comprising deforming the biodegradable polyester copolymer filament produced by any one of claims 135 to 152 to form the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

154. A method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers, the method comprising cutting the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 153 to form deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fibers.

155. A method for forming deformed biodegradable polyester chips, the method comprising granulating the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer filament of claim 153 to form deformed biodegradable polyester chips.

156. A method of forming a deformable biodegradable polyester container, the method comprising blow molding the deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer of claim 153 to form a deformable biodegradable polyester container.

157. A method of forming a deformable biodegradable polyester packaging, the method comprising blow molding the deformable biodegradable polyester copolymer of claim 153 to form the deformable biodegradable polyester packaging.

158. A method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer yarn, the method comprising spinning the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber of claim 154 to form a yarn.

159. A method for forming a modified biodegradable polyester copolymer blended yarn, the method comprising spinning the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer staple fiber of claim 154 with one or more of cotton fiber and rayon fiber to form a blended yarn.

160. A method for forming a fabric from the modified biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers of claim 154.

161. The method of claim 160, wherein forming the fabric comprises knitting the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric.

162. The method of claim 160, wherein forming the fabric comprises weaving the deformed biodegradable polyester copolymer short fibers to form the fabric.

163. The method of claim 160, wherein forming the fabric comprises forming a nonwoven fabric.

164. A method for forming garment from the fabric of any one of claims 160 to 163.

165. A method for forming a fabric from any one of claims 135 to 152 of a biodegradable polyester copolymer filament.

166. A kit for spinning biodegradable polyester copolymer filaments, said kit comprising: A liquid additive container for containing a blend of liquid biodegradable textile additives, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additives comprise: caprolactone monomer; Polyethylene glycol; Ethylene glycol; and Antioxidants; Solid system additives, wherein the solid system additives comprise: Polybutylene succinate; and Calcium carbonate; terephthalic acid; and Ethylene glycol.

167. The kit of claim 166, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 50% to 80% by weight of caprolactone monomer.

168. The kit according to claim 166 or 167, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 15% to 25% by weight of polyethylene glycol.

169. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 168, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.4% to 2% by weight of ethylene glycol.

170. The kit according to any one of claims 76 to 79, wherein the blended liquid biodegradable textile additive comprises 0.01% to 1% by weight of an antioxidant.

171. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 170, wherein the solid system additive comprises 91% to 94% by weight of polybutylene succinate.

172. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 171, wherein the solid system additive comprises 6% to 9% by weight of calcium carbonate.

173. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 172, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 0.4% to 1.2% by weight of a blended liquid biodegradable textile additive.

174. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 173, wherein the biodegradable polyester copolymer melt comprises 0.1% to 1.5% by weight of solid system additives.

175. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 174, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises low molecular weight polyethylene glycol.

176. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 175, wherein the polyethylene glycol comprises polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400), polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG 600), or polyethylene glycol 800 (PEG 800).

177. The kit according to any one of claims 166 to 176, wherein the antioxidant comprises a phenolic antioxidant.

178. The kit of claim 177, wherein the phenolic antioxidant is sterically hindered or partially sterically hindered.

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