Compostable cellulose-based capsules for containing beverage ingredients

Abstract

The present invention relates to a compostable food and / or beverage container (1) comprising a cellulose-based material comprising cellulose fibers for containing food and / or beverage ingredients (7) for use with a beverage preparation machine for the preparation of a beverage and / or food product thereof, the container (1) comprising: a container body (2) forming a storage portion (4) to house the food and / or beverage ingredients (7); and a closure member (6) for closing the storage portion (4) of the body (2), said container body (2) comprising an outwardly extending rim portion (5) for the sealing of the closure member (6) thereon, wherein the body (2) and / or the closure member (6) comprises on its outer surface facing away from the storage portion (4) a laser marked pattern (11), said marked pattern (11) comprising on its surface cellulose fibers having an outer diameter which is at least 5% larger than the outer diameter of the cellulose fibers of the container body (2) and / or the closure member (6) outside the marked pattern (11). The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing said compostable food and / or beverage container and to the use of said container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to compostable cellulose-based containers for containing beverage ingredients and methods for manufacturing such capsules.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a disposable cellulose-based container (e.g., a capsule or pouch) comprising a visual pattern containing a product, preferably coffee, in powder or leaf form, intended to be mixed with a liquid (e.g., hot or cold water under pressure) to obtain a beverage by interacting with a beverage preparation machine, and to a method of manufacturing such a container. Background Technology

[0003] In the field of cellulose-based packaging, the conventional distinction is made through printing. Generally speaking, printers use inks in various ways to print images or unique symbols on cellulose-based (e.g., paper) objects.

[0004] Using inks has several disadvantages, one of which is that when cellulose-based materials are intended to come into direct or indirect contact with food and / or beverage ingredients, these inks must meet the safety requirements of the food and beverage industry.

[0005] Additionally, when considering the compostable packaging sector, it may be difficult to find inks that do not compromise composability and can withstand the required shelf life of at least 12 months.

[0006] Given these limitations, attempts have been made to provide ink-free (or ink-free) solutions to offer differentiation on cellulose-based objects.

[0007] Laser technology is a known alternative to ink printing and is widely used due to its versatility and precision.

[0008] EP 2 978 610 A1 proposes the use of a laser diode beam to selectively carbonize at least a portion of the surface of a paper object, the laser diode beam selectively heating one or more portions of the surface of the paper object to a level where the heated portion of the surface is at least partially carbonized and thereby changes color. This solution can be described as high-power laser engraving (or deep laser engraving).

[0009] However, deep laser engraving of cellulose-based objects generates smoke and dust, which can be difficult to manage in some industries, such as the food and beverage industry.

[0010] Additionally, when a cellulose-based object, which may be a 2D or 3D product or component (such as a beverage container), includes a specific internal protective layer in the form of a coating or lining, deep laser engraving of the cellulose-based object on the surface opposite to the surface including the coating / lining may damage such a coating or lining. This can be quite problematic, especially when such a coating or lining imparts specific additional properties to the cellulose-based object, such as barrier properties against gases and / or moisture. In fact, the internal barrier coating / lining maintains its integrity and full functionality to prevent the beverage ingredients contained within the beverage container from spoiling.

[0011] Taking cellulose-based compostable containers (such as coffee capsules) for holding food and / or beverage ingredients as an example, there is a need for a container differentiation that does not impair the technical performance of the container used and complies with food / beverage industry and safety requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0012] As used herein, the terms "machine" or "equipment" may refer to electrically operated devices or machines that can: prepare beverages and / or food products from precursor materials or ingredients, or prepare precursor materials from pre-precursor materials that can subsequently be prepared into beverages and / or food products. The machine may perform the preparation through one or more of the following processes: dilution; heating; pressurization; cooling; mixing; beating; dissolving; soaking; macerating; extraction; conditioning; brewing; grinding; and other similar processes. The dimensions of the machine may be set for use on a workbench; for example, the length, width, and height of the machine may be less than 70 cm. As used herein, the term "preparation" for beverages and / or food products may refer to the preparation of at least a portion of the beverage and / or food product (e.g., the beverage is entirely or partially prepared by the machine, or additional fluids, including milk and / or water, may be manually added to the beverage by the end user before consumption).

[0013] As used herein, the terms "container," "capsule," or "bag" can refer to any configuration that contains precursor material (e.g., as a single, pre-quantified portion). A container may have a maximum capacity such that it can hold only a single portion of precursor material. A container may be single-use, for example, physically altered after a preparation process that may include one or more of the following: perforation to supply a fluid, such as a liquid like water, to the precursor material; perforation to supply a beverage / food product from the container; or opening by a user to extract the precursor material. A container may be configured to operate with a container handling unit of a machine; for example, the container may include flanges for aligning and guiding the container through said unit or arranged on said unit. A container may include a rupture portion arranged to rupture upon exposure to a specific pressure to deliver the beverage / food product. A container may have a membrane for sealing the container. Containers may have various forms, including one or more of the following: truncated conical; cylindrical; disc-shaped; hemispherical; and other similar forms. The container can be formed from various materials, such as metal or plastic or combinations thereof with a wood pulp base. The material can be selected such that it is: food-safe; and able to withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container can be defined as a capsule or a pouch, wherein the capsule or pouch can have an internal volume of 5 ml to 100 ml. Capsules include coffee capsules, for example, Nespresso. ® Capsules (including Original Line, Professional, Vertuo Line or other capsules).

[0014] As used herein, the term "system" or "beverage or food product preparation system" may refer to any combination of two or more of the following: beverage or food product preparation machinery; containers; server systems; and peripheral equipment.

[0015] As used herein, the term "beverage" can refer to any substance that can be processed into a form suitable for consumption, which may be iced or hot. A beverage can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. A beverage may include one or a combination of the following: tea; coffee; hot chocolate; milk; liqueur; vitamin compositions; herbal tea / infusion; brewed water / flavored water; and other extractable substances. As used herein, the term "food product" can refer to any substance that can be processed into a nutritious substance for consumption, which may be iced or hot. A food product can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. Food products may include yogurt; mousse; frozen dessert; soup; ice cream; sorbet; custard; smoothie; and other substances. It should be understood that there is some overlap between the definitions of beverage and food product; for example, a beverage can also be a food product, and therefore, the machine described for preparing a beverage or food product does not preclude the preparation of both.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "precursor material" or "beverage ingredient" can refer to any material that can be processed to form part or all of a beverage or food product. Precursor materials can be one or more of the following: powder; crystalline; liquid form; gel; solid; and others. Examples of beverages that form precursor materials include: ground coffee; milk powder; tea leaves; cocoa powder; vitamin compositions; herbs, such as those used to form herbal / infused teas; flavorings; and other similar materials. Examples of food products that form precursor materials include dried vegetables or broth as anhydrous soup powder; powdered milk; flour-based powders, including custard; powdered yogurt or ice cream; and other similar materials. Precursor material can also refer to any pre-precursor material that can be processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can be subsequently processed into a beverage and / or food product. In examples, pre-precursor materials include coffee beans that can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) into precursor materials.

[0017] As used herein, the term "fluid" (as opposed to fluid supplied by a fluid conditioning system) may include one or more of the following: liquid, such as water; milk; others.

[0018] As used herein, the term "wood pulp-based" can refer to a material or part of a material forming a container, which is one or more of the following: porous; fibrous; cellulose; formed of cellulose material; formed of natural cellulose material; formed of reconstituted or regenerated cellulose material; nonwoven; consisting entirely of wood pulp or a composition of wood pulp, and formed by wet or dry methods. The thickness of the wood-based material can be from 0.08 mm to 0.90 mm, for example from 0.10 mm to 0.75 mm, or typically from about 0.15 mm to 0.5 mm. The wood-based material can be from 200 gsm to 400 gsm.

[0019] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" can refer to nonwoven or knitted woven fabrics. Nonwoven materials can be made of fibers bonded together. As used herein, the term "porous" can refer to materials constructed with pores to allow water (or other liquids) to pass through.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “fiber-based” or “fiber-based” may refer to a material composed of fibers, which may be present in one or more material compositions.

[0021] As used herein, the terms “cellulose,” “cellulose-based,” or “cellulose material” can refer to conventional woody materials (from softwood and / or hardwood species) and / or nonwoody materials. These materials can be bleached and unbleached and may include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. Examples of softwoods are pine, spruce, redwood, etc. Examples of hardwood cellulose-based materials are maple, oak, ash, eucalyptus, maple, birch, walnut, beech, etc. Examples of nonwoody cellulose-based materials are rice, Manila hemp, sisal, jute, bamboo, corn, sugarcane, sugarcane bagasse (bagasse), banana peel, and coffee powder.

[0022] As used herein, the term "natural cellulose material" may refer to conventional wood-based or non-wood-based materials that are not recycled. As used herein, the term "reconstructed or recycled cellulose material" may refer to natural cellulose materials that have undergone treatment (including reconstruction or recycling), examples of which include rayon and lyocell fiber.

[0023] As used herein, the term "wood pulp" can refer to a lignocellulosic cellulose fibrous material, which can be prepared by mechanically or chemically separating cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or rags. As used herein, the term "wet forming" can refer to a process formed from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers can be heated and pressed in a mold to shape the material and remove water from it. As used herein, the term "dry forming" can refer to a process formed without using an aqueous solution of fibers.

[0024] In these respects, the present invention provides a compostable food and / or beverage container comprising the cellulose-based material according to claim 1.

[0025] More specifically, the present invention relates to a compostable food and / or beverage container comprising a cellulose-based material containing cellulose fibers, the compostable food and / or beverage container being used with a beverage preparation machine for preparing its beverage and / or food products, the container comprising: a container body forming a storage portion for containing the food and / or beverage ingredients; and a closure member (6) for closing the storage portion of the container body, the container body including an outwardly extending edge portion for sealing thereon by the closure member.

[0026] In the claimed invention, the body and / or closure member includes a laser-marked pattern on its outer surface opposite to the storage portion, and the marking pattern includes cellulose fibers on its surface having an outer diameter at least 5% larger than the outer diameter of the cellulose fibers of the container body and / or closure member located outside the marking pattern.

[0027] The increased outer diameter of the marked cellulose fibers allows for visual distinction between laser-marked and unmarked cellulose fibers. Therefore, the proposed specific laser marking method enables ink-free marking of capsules without handling and storing fluids and solvents.

[0028] More specifically, the marking pattern of the container body and / or closure component consists of cellulose fibers with an enlarged outer diameter extending from the outer surface of the container body and / or closure component to a thickness between 1 micrometer and 40 micrometers.

[0029] Because the surface of the marked pattern is modified during laser marking, the marking is permanent and advantageously will not be erased over time.

[0030] It should be noted that, using the proposed laser marking, the cellulose fibers of the marked pattern exhibit different light diffraction than the cellulose fibers located outside the marked pattern.

[0031] For example, laser-treated cellulose fibers have a different color than the untreated cellulose fibers of the container, which allows for improved differentiation between the marking pattern and the rest of the container surface.

[0032] More specifically, the laser-marked cellulose fibers with the marking pattern have a whiter color than the cellulose fibers outside the marking pattern, which is particularly advantageous when the cellulose fibers are brown.

[0033] Of particular interest is the proposed capsule (and the proposed laser marking method), in which no additives are added to the cellulose-based material (e.g., pulp or paper) to achieve good contrast between the marking pattern and the cellulose-based material, so that the end consumer can easily read the information presented on the pattern.

[0034] Based on the proposed characteristics, the laser-marked cellulose fibers of the marking pattern do not contain carbonized cellulose fibers, thus eliminating the need for cellulose fiber removal during laser marking.

[0035] According to another characteristic, the cellulose-based material is a plant-based fiber material, which includes optionally bleached woody and / or non-woody fiber materials. Because the marking is ink-free, it allows for fully biodegradable / compostable container solutions with improved visual distinguishability.

[0036] More specifically, cellulose-based materials are selected from a list of paper, calendered paper, parchment, paperboard, molded pulp, or combinations thereof.

[0037] Based on an important characteristic, the marking pattern is formed within a group of logos, brand series, product names, trademarks, coding information, and combinations thereof, using selected distinguishing symbols or de-emphasized areas.

[0038] Therefore, containers from different companies or manufacturers can be distinguished by the marking patterns. When the marking patterns are coded information (e.g., codes for brewing parameters), the beverage preparation machine can use these coded optimal parameters to extract the beverage ingredients stored in the container to obtain the desired beverage after reading the coded information.

[0039] For coffee containers (such as capsules or pouches), it is also possible to distinguish containers that have different coffee series (e.g., Lungo, Ristretto, or other coffees) or types (e.g., decaffeinated coffee).

[0040] Furthermore, the container's body and / or closure components include a coating and / or multiple lining materials on the side facing the storage section, which have gas and / or water vapor or moisture barrier functions. The proposed laser marking with variations in cellulose fiber structure is of particular interest because there is no risk of damaging the container's coating and / or multiple lining materials, body, and / or closure components.

[0041] According to an additional characteristic, the food and / or beverage ingredient is a beverage ingredient, preferably roasted and ground coffee.

[0042] In one proposed option, the closure component of the container can be a closure film, thus forming a (3D-shaped) capsule when the closure film is assembled onto the edge portion of the container body. A laser-marked pattern can then be advantageously applied to the closure film and / or the sidewalls of the capsule, for example, allowing consumers to distinguish that particular capsule from other capsules, such as Nespresso. ® Original Line capsules.

[0043] In another proposed option, the closure member of the container can be the container body, thus forming a capsule when the container body forming the closure member is assembled onto the first container body. Advantageously, the capsule can be a paper Nespresso. ® Professional capsules, these capsules are labeled Nespresso. ® Logo and / or indications on it, such as coffee series or type.

[0044] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing cellulose-based biodegradable and / or compostable food and / or beverage containers as previously disclosed and as claimed in claim 14.

[0045] More specifically, the method includes:

[0046] a. To take shape or form the main body of a container;

[0047] b. Fill the container body with food and / or beverage ingredients;

[0048] c. Use sealing components to seal the container body;

[0049] The method also includes a step of surface laser marking of a pattern using a CO2 laser operating in the infrared spectrum with an optical power between 0.1W and 60W, wherein the laser-marked cellulose fibers of the pattern have a whiter color than the cellulose fibers located outside the marked pattern.

[0050] The proposed laser parameters, and importantly the proposed laser power range, allow for permanent visual discrimination and a low-cost operating process, as no post-processing steps are required to obtain the proposed visual discrimination.

[0051] According to an additional parameter, the laser frequency is between 10 kHz and 200 kHz, and the laser marking speed is between 100 mm / s and 20,000 mm / s. This makes this surface laser marking method suitable for high-volume applications and easily applicable to the production of beverage containers (such as capsules or pouches).

[0052] More specifically, during the laser marking step, the cellulose fibers of the marked pattern have undergone a swelling effect, while the cellulose fibers are not carbonized, which is particularly advantageous in production lines used to produce beverage containers such as capsules or pouches.

[0053] This invention also relates to the use of biodegradable and / or compostable food and / or beverage containers for preparing beverages and / or food products in beverage preparation machines. The proposed laser marking and labeled containers provide consumers with improved visual differentiation.

[0054] The foregoing aspects of the invention can be combined in any suitable manner. Furthermore, various features herein can be combined with one or more of the foregoing aspects to provide combinations other than those specifically illustrated and described. Further objects and advantageous features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, detailed descriptions, and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0055] The invention is further described with reference to the following examples. It should be understood that the invention protected by the claims is not intended to be limited in any way by these embodiments.

[0056] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] - Figure 1A This is a bottom perspective view of a cellulose-based capsule, including the storage portion, and Figure 1BThe side sectional view through section line AA of the same capsule shows the storage section and the closing component;

[0058] - Figure 2A It is a perspective view of a pulp-molded capsule made in the prior art, and Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of the cellulose fibers of the capsule;

[0059] - Figure 3A It is a perspective view of a laser-engraved pattern on a pulp-molded capsule made using existing technology, and Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view of the cellulose fibers at the patterned location of the capsule;

[0060] - Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the pulp-molded capsule of the present invention, showing a laser-marked pattern. Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view of the cellulose fibers at the patterned location of the capsule;

[0061] - Figure 5 This is an image showing a portion of a cellulose-based capsule and comparing a portion without laser markings with a portion having surface laser markings according to the invention;

[0062] - Figure 6A and Figure 6B The diagram shows portions of a cellulose-based capsule molded from pulp according to the prior art, having laser engraving, and according to the invention, having laser marking; and

[0063] - Figure 7 A capsule with a pattern made by surface laser marking according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0064] As used in this specification, the words “including,” “contains,” and similar terms should not be construed as having an exclusive or exhaustive meaning. In other words, these terms are intended to mean “including but not limited to.”

[0065] Any references to prior art documents in this specification should not be construed as an admission that such prior art is well-known or constitutes part of common knowledge in the art.

[0066] Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A , Figure 3A , Figure 4A and Figure 7 Containers, capsules (C) or sacs (P) made of biodegradable materials were proposed. Figure 4A Capsule C is shown, and Figure 7 A capsule P marked according to the present invention is shown.

[0067] These containers are made of biodegradable materials and are biodegradable as a whole. However, in addition to being biodegradable, these containers are preferably compostable, and most preferably compostable for home use. These containers are made of a combination of biodegradable materials, a combination of compostable materials, a combination of home compostable materials, or a combination of biodegradable, compostable, and home compostable materials.

[0068] Generally speaking, the term "biodegradable" can be understood as meaning that the material can be broken down by bacteria or other biological processes.

[0069] The term "biodegradable material" can be understood as any material that can be broken down into environmentally harmless products by biological processes (such as microorganisms, like bacteria, fungi, or algae). This process can be carried out in an environment with or without oxygen (aerobic). This can be understood, for example, to mean that composting can be carried out without any residue. Specifically, at the end of the composting process, there are no residues of materials that could cause environmental problems, or any non-biodegradable components.

[0070] Generally, the term "compostable" can be understood as meaning that a material can essentially decompose into organic matter within weeks or months during composting. At the end of the composting process, once the material is completely decomposed, it can supply nutrients to the land. International standards (such as EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400) provide a legal framework for specifying the technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials. For example, according to these standards, compostable materials must be biodegradable and disintegrable (i.e., crumble and not visible in the final compost) and must not negatively impact the composting process and quality. Composting can be carried out in home composters and / or industrial composting sites. Limitations related to wind, sunlight, drainage, and other factors may exist at such sites.

[0071] Biodegradation can be tested according to standards such as ISO 14855, ISO 17556, or ISO 14851. For example, to be considered "industrially compostable," one test requires that at least 90% of the material be biodegraded within 6 months under controlled conditions. Similar tests exist for home compost certification.

[0072] For the "home compostable" requirement, home compostable materials can be composted in a home composting device such as a compost bin or home compost box over a period of several weeks or months (e.g., the material degrades by at least 90% within 12 months at ambient temperature). As a result of the composting process, home compostable materials can be transformed into nutrient-rich soil. Therefore, home compostable containers can be easily disposed of in a home compost pile after their use. Additionally, the term "material composition" can be understood as, for example, the composition, combination, and / or arrangement of (different) materials, which preferably (completely) form a (homogeneous) structure, such as a container or a segment thereof.

[0073] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Capsule C, made of pulp molding material, is presented. More specifically, the capsule is for use in Nespresso. ® Nespresso used in beverage preparation machines ® Original Line capsules.

[0074] This kind of Nespresso ® Original Line has disclosed known systems and related capsules (made of aluminum) in one or more of EP0512468A1, EP 0512470A1, EP1646305A1, or EP1165398A1. These references also disclose details of the construction, manufacture, and / or (beverage) extraction of such capsules (made of aluminum) and / or closure components.

[0075] EP0512470A1 discloses a method for extracting a capsule under pressure from a fluid passing through a coffee bed contained in the main chamber of the capsule; the capsule includes a sealing membrane that maintains pressure and is torn upon contact with a protruding element of an engagement member of the device to allow the liquid extract to flow in the cup.

[0076] More specifically, during the extraction process, after the bottom wall of the capsule is opened, water is supplied into the capsule, which increases the pressure inside the capsule body chamber, and the capsule holder of the beverage machine, including the opening member, is designed to open the sealing membrane by relative engagement with the sealing membrane under the pressure increase of the injected liquid in the body chamber and the expansion of the sealing membrane against the puncture arrangement of the opening member.

[0077] The recently published WO 2023 / 052352 A1 (the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) discloses pulp-molded compostable capsules, and in particular their structure and method of formation. According to this reference, pulp-molded compostable capsule C... Figure 1A and Figure 1B Presented in [location]. By Nespresso ®The capsules developed and marketed, preferably containing roasted and ground coffee, are a complementary solution to aluminum capsules and are designed to work with Nespresso. ® The same method is used for aluminum capsules in Nespresso. ® Original Line beverage machine.

[0078] therefore, Figure 1A and Figure 1B The capsule C includes: a container body 2, here cup-shaped, having a sidewall 3 defining a storage portion 4 for the beverage ingredient 7 to be extracted, an edge portion 5 integral with the cup-shaped body 2, and a sealing member 6 for sealing the storage portion 4. The sealing member 6 is a sealing membrane 6a.

[0079] To ensure optimal storage of beverage ingredient 7 within storage portion 4, container body 2 also includes a barrier liner 9 extending on the inner surface of the defined storage portion 4 and on the edge portion 5 of the capsule. Figure 1B (See image). In capsule C, the edge portion 5 includes an outwardly extending curled portion 8.

[0080] Liner 9 is a layered and / or laminated lining structure that includes preferred bidirectional barrier properties against oxygen and / or water vapor / moisture.

[0081] As an alternative to lining, coatings can also be considered to provide the required barrier properties, especially 3D spray coatings.

[0082] Now go to Figures 2A to 4B , Figure 2A , Figure 3A and Figure 4A Capsules molded from pulp are shown. These capsules have a binding... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The capsule-like structure described.

[0083] As can be seen, Figure 2A The capsule has no markings, symbols or patterns on its outer sidewall 3. Figure 2B This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the incision at the location of sidewall 3 in capsule 2A, showing the cellulose fibers at this specific incision location. Figure 2B The view in the image was obtained using a Keyence optical microscope. The reference lines in the image correspond to 200 μm. It can be seen that the fibers are straight, compressed, and connected together.

[0084] As mentioned, Figure 3A The capsules have the same Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2AThe capsule shown has a similar structure. However, capsule C also includes an engraved pattern 10 on its outer sidewall 3. Figure 3A As can be seen, the engraved pattern 10 corresponds to the "Peru" capsule series, which allows consumers to identify the capsule and the related coffee contained within it.

[0085] Figure 3A The capsule corresponds to one recently launched on the market. The engraved pattern 10 is made by laser engraving the (external) sidewall 3 of the capsule C. The laser engraving process for the pattern 10 utilizes a CO2 laser operating between 9μm and 11μm at an optical power between 10W and 90W. The laser frequency is typically between 1kHz and 250kHz, and typical marking speeds can be between 800mm / s and 10000mm / s. Different focal points can also be used to achieve this effect, such as + / - 5mm to the initial focal point. This laser engraving can be referred to as depth laser engraving.

[0086] Typically, because laser engraving is focused and precise, any type of information can be engraved with high definition. The result is legible written information (here, the "Peruvian" coffee series). Figure 3A In the engraved pattern 10, the color is similar to or appears slightly darker (due to the depth of the engraving) to the rest of the cup-shaped body 2 molded from pulp, and can be limited to written information in the same tone.

[0087] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Enlarged cut cross-sectional view of the side wall 3 of capsule C at the location including the engraved pattern 7A. Figure 3B The reference line in the photo corresponds to 200 micrometers.

[0088] like Figure 3B As can be seen, at the location where laser engraving of the capsule has been performed, the cellulose fibers of the pulp-molded capsule are missing in the main portion of the sidewall thickness 3: grooves are carved out in the body of the cellulose fibers. The bottom of the grooves is slightly lighter in color, here white; however, it may not be noticeable due to the depth of the engraving. The grooves (in which the cellulose fibers are missing) extend over 50% of the sidewall thickness. Upon analysis of the laser-treated surface, it is observed that the fibers are burned and tiny pores are visible.

[0089] like Figure 3A The final result of the visible depth laser engraving is a hollow outline of the same tone forming the engraved pattern 10.

[0090] Figure 4A Presented with Figures 1A to 2A and Figure 3AThe capsule shown has a similar structure to capsule 2A, which includes a laser-engraved pattern 11 according to the invention. The laser-engraved pattern 11 differs from... Figure 3A The laser pattern on the capsule is 10. (Example) Figure 4A As presented, pattern 11 is white, at least whiter than the cellulose-based molded pulp of capsule body 2. In this case, the contrast between the material of capsule body 2 and pattern 11 is improved. The laser engraving process used to create the pattern is surface laser engraving.

[0091] Surface laser engraving uses a CO2 laser that operates by emitting high-intensity infrared light, which heats the surface of a container (here made of a cellulose-based material). Unbound by any physical theory, surface laser engraving causes cellulose fibers on its surface to react with the laser beam, thus producing the desired white effect.

[0092] In this invention, a CO2 laser (with a wavelength of any one of 9.3 μm, 10.2 μm, or 10.6 μm) is used. More specifically, a 30 W laser is used, with a power between 5% and 40% of the total laser power, and a frequency between 10 kHz and 90 kHz. Possible marking speeds can be between 900 mm / s and 10000 mm / s. Different focal points can also be used to achieve this effect, such as + / - 3 mm to the initial focal point.

[0093] In the enlarged cross-sectional view of the cut in sidewall 3 at the location of the engraved pattern 11, as shown... Figure 3B As shown (where the reference line in the photograph corresponds to 200 micrometers), cellulose fibers have the same properties as... Figure 2B and Figure 3B Cellulose fibers in different states. Figure 4B In the process, laser-treated cellulose fibers swell and expand, exhibiting the same properties as... Figure 2B The (unlaser-treated) fibers are a different (whiter) color.

[0094] Expanded cellulose fibers typically extend outward from the outer surface of the cellulose-based material, and they can extend to a thickness between 1 micrometer and 40 micrometers.

[0095] According to the measurement results, the cellulose fibers of pattern 11 have an outer diameter that is at least 5% larger than the outer diameter of the cellulose fibers of the body and / or the closed member located outside the pattern, which indicates that the cellulose fibers of pattern 11 have undergone a swelling effect.

[0096] When using CO2 lasers operating in the infrared spectrum, the range of different laser parameters can be quite wide, depending on the desired effect. For example, the optical power can range from 0.1W to 40W, and the laser marking speed can range from 900mm / s to 20000mm / s.

[0097] Figure 5 A magnified view (65x magnification using an optical microscope) of the surface of cellulose fibers is shown as a comparison between a surface that has undergone surface laser engraving and a surface that has not undergone laser treatment. Figure 5 The two surfaces shown in the image are separated by a black line indicating the exposure limit.

[0098] Comparative analysis shows that cellulose fibers treated with surface laser engraving have an increased outer diameter compared to untreated cellulose fibers. This increase in diameter is a result of the swelling of the cellulose fibers in the cellulose-based material, which leads to a color change in the fibers. This color change is characterized by the fibers turning white, as... Figure 4A As shown, but also as will be described later. Figure 6B As shown.

[0099] The described surface laser engraving can be applied to a wide variety of cellulose-based packaging materials. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The image shows examples of its application on kraft paper. Figure 6A This shows Nespresso engraved using deep laser engraving. ® The logo and coffee series are part of the paper material (here, kraft paper), and Figure 6B A portion of a paper material (here, kraft paper) is shown, with the same elements engraved using surface laser engraving.

[0100] like Figure 6A As can be seen, the cellulose fibers of the kraft paper have been deeply engraved and the cellulose material has been removed. This is particularly evident in each element of pattern 10, especially in each letter forming the word "RISTRETTO" and in the composition of Nespresso. ® The letters around the logo. Pattern 10 has the same color as the paper material.

[0101] Figure 6B The same pattern elements marked using a surface engraving process are shown. Here, the elements of pattern 11 are displayed in white on brown paper: Nespresso is represented by its intaglio pattern marked by laser. ® The logo and the coffee type "RISTRETTO," indicated in bold and capital letters, are white, contrasting with the brown of the paper. The cellulose fibers in the paper have undergone a swelling effect during surface laser engraving, resulting in a color change in the fibers. The contrast between the color of the paper material and the engraved pattern 11 (using surface laser engraving) is particularly striking.

[0102] In the proposed Figure 6BIn this context, a marking pattern is a logo or product designation; however, the distinguishing elements that can be applied through a pattern can be of various types. For example, a pattern may include a logo, brand series, product name, trademark, coding information, or any combination of these elements. Marking patterns can also form de-emphasis areas or sections.

[0103] In addition, marking patterns can also form weakened areas for one or more components of the container (such as closure components or part of the container body).

[0104] Figure 7 Presented is a top view of a capsule P made of cellulose material. Figure 6B Laser marking. More specifically, the proposed capsule P is made of paper material and is intended for use in Nespresso. ® Nespresso used in Professional beverage preparation machines ® Professional package.

[0105] Nespresso ® Professional systems are known in the art and are typically associated with Nespresso. ® The Original Line system works in a similar manner, where, in addition to the injection of fluid into the capsule, an increase in pressure inside the capsule causes the outer surface of the capsule to interact with the opening mechanism of the brewing chamber of the beverage preparation machine, resulting in the opening of the capsule and the delivery of the brewed beverage.

[0106] The capsule P includes: a first container body 2 defining a storage portion for beverage ingredients to be extracted; an edge portion 5 integral with the body 2; and a closure member that closes the storage portion. In the capsule P, the closure member 6b has the same characteristics as the container body to form a symmetrical capsule P when the closure member is assembled onto the container body.

[0107] Similarly, for capsule C, to ensure optimal storage of the beverage ingredients within the storage portion of the capsule P, both container bodies include barrier linings extending onto the inner surface of the container bodies and the edge portion 5 of the capsule. Conventionally, the linings can be layered and / or laminated lining structures that include preferably bidirectional barrier properties against oxygen and / or water vapor / moisture.

[0108] like Figure 7 Visible and related Figure 6B Similarly, two types of information are laser-engraved on the container body 2 of the capsule 7: Nespresso ®The logo is indicated by its embossed laser markings; and the coffee type "RISTRETTO" is indicated in bold and capital letters. However, additional information can be laser-marked on the pouch if desired, and different types of writing (such as bold, italics, or capital letters) can be used, allowing for complete selection of distinguishing elements to be engraved on the pouch.

[0109] Finally, consumers can easily select and pick up the chosen bag from multiple bags (each with a different marking pattern) based on the marking pattern.

[0110] As understood from the above disclosure, the manufacturing process of the container (capsule or pouch) includes, in addition to forming or shaping the container body, filling the container body with food and / or beverage ingredients, and closing the container body with a closing member, the step of surface laser marking a pattern on the outer surface of the container body and / or the container closing member.

[0111] The laser used for surface marking of patterns is a CO2 laser operating in the infrared spectrum with an optical power between 0.1W and 40W and a marking speed between 900mm / s and 20000mm / s.

[0112] During the surface laser marking step, the laser-marked cellulose fibers undergo a swelling effect as their outer diameter increases, and subsequently appear embossed compared to cellulose fibers outside the marked pattern. This swelling effect, which cannot be considered carbonization, causes the cellulose fibers to whiten.

[0113] Finally, the laser-marked cellulose fibers with the marking pattern have a whiter color than the cellulose fibers outside the marking pattern, such as... Figure 4A , Figure 6B and Figure 7 This is particularly evident in the fact that it makes it possible to distinguish containers with marked elements (logos, information, codes, etc.).

[0114] As mentioned above, the described surface laser engraving process can be applied to a wide variety of cellulose-based packaging materials, including containers molded from wet pulp as shown in the accompanying drawings. Other cellulose-based materials include, for example, calendered paper or dry pulp molded or shaped components.

[0115] By adjusting laser parameters and range (such as pulse duration, energy density or intensity, marking speed, and beam width), this invention allows for precise control over the depth and width of laser marking and writing. Therefore, in addition to the information to be laser-engraved on the product, different levels of "white" color and different writing styles (bold, uppercase, italic, etc.) can be obtained, thus ensuring important diversity in distinguishing the proposed capsules and pouches.

[0116] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the currently preferred embodiments of the capsule described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as covered by the appended claims.

[0117] In the claims, any reference marks placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “a” or “an” are defined as one or more. Additionally, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed as implying that any particular claim containing such introduced claim elements is limited to the invention comprising only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an.” The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish the elements described by such terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the time or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are stated in mutually different claims does not imply that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0118] Unless otherwise expressly specified as incompatible, or if the physics or other aspects of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such combinations, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, as well as those of the following claims, can be integrated in any suitable arrangement, especially where doing so has beneficial effects. This is not limited to any particular beneficial effect, but may arise from “post-hoc” beneficial effects. That is, the combination of features is not limited to the form described, and in particular not to the form (e.g., numbering) of one or more examples, one or more embodiments, or one or more dependent claims. Furthermore, this also applies to the phrases “in one embodiment,” “according to one embodiment,” etc., which are merely stylistic forms of wording and should not be construed as limiting the following features to a single embodiment, but rather to all other instances of the same or similar wording. That is, references to “a,” “an,” or “some” embodiments may refer to any one or more and / or all of the disclosed embodiments or combinations thereof. Similarly, references to “the” embodiment may not be limited to the preceding embodiment.

[0119] The foregoing description of one or more specific embodiments is provided for illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings, or may be obtained from practice of various specific embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A compostable food and / or beverage container (1), the compostable food and / or beverage container comprising a cellulose-based material containing cellulose fibers, the compostable food and / or beverage container being used to contain food and / or beverage ingredients (7) for use with a beverage preparation machine for preparing its beverage and / or food products, the container (1) comprising: The container body (2) forms a storage portion (4) to contain the food and / or beverage ingredients (7). and a sealing member (6) for closing the storage portion (4) of the body (2), the container body (2) including an outwardly extending edge portion (5) for the sealing member (6) to seal thereon, The main body (2) and / or the closure member (6) includes a laser marking pattern (11) on its outer surface opposite to the storage portion (4), the marking pattern (11) including cellulose fibers on its surface, the cellulose fibers having an outer diameter at least 5% larger than the outer diameter of the cellulose fibers of the container body (2) and / or the closure member (6) located outside the marking pattern (11).

2. The compostable food and / or beverage container according to claim 1, wherein, The cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) of the container body (2) and / or the closure member (6) with an enlarged outer diameter extend from the outer surface of the container body (2) and / or the closure member (6) to a thickness between 1 micrometer and 40 micrometers.

3. The compostable food and / or beverage container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) have different light diffraction than the cellulose fibers located outside the marking pattern (11).

4. The compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The laser-marked cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) have a different color than the cellulose fibers located outside the marking pattern (11).

5. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The laser-marked cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) have a whiter color than the cellulose fibers located outside the marking pattern (11).

6. The compostable food and / or beverage container according to claim 5, wherein, The laser-marked cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) do not contain carbonized cellulose fibers.

7. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cellulose-based material is a plant-based fiber material, which includes optionally bleached woody and / or non-woody fiber materials.

8. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cellulose-based material is selected from a list of paper, calendered paper, parchment, paperboard, molded pulp, or combinations thereof.

9. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The marking pattern (11) is formed within a group of logos, brand series, product names, trademarks, coding information and combinations thereof, as a distinguishing symbol or a weakened area.

10. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main body (2) and / or the closure member (6) includes a coating and / or multilayer lining (9) material on the side facing the storage portion (4), the coating and / or multilayer lining material having a gas and / or water vapor or moisture barrier function.

11. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The food and / or beverage ingredient (7) is a beverage ingredient, preferably roasted and ground coffee.

12. A compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The sealing member is a sealing membrane (6a), which forms a capsule (C) when the sealing membrane (6a) is assembled onto the edge portion (5) of the container body (2).

13. The compostable food and / or beverage container according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The closure member (6) is a container body (2, 6b) such that when the closure member (2, 6b) is assembled on the first container body (2), a capsule (P) is formed.

14. A method for manufacturing cellulose-based, biodegradable, and / or compostable food and / or beverage containers according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising: a. To take shape or form the main body of the container (2); b. Fill the container body (2) with food and / or beverage ingredients (7); c. Use the sealing component (6) to seal the container body (2); The method further includes the step of surface laser marking of the pattern (11) using a CO2 laser operating in the infrared spectrum with an optical power between 0.1W and 40W, and The laser-marked cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) have a whiter color than the cellulose fibers located outside the marking pattern (11).

15. The method for manufacturing compostable food and / or beverage containers according to claim 14, wherein, The marking speed of the laser is between 900 mm / s and 20000 mm / s, and the frequency of the laser is between 10 kHz and 90 kHz.

16. The method of manufacturing compostable food and / or beverage containers according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, During the laser marking step, the cellulose fibers of the marking pattern (11) have undergone a swelling effect, while the cellulose fibers have not been carbonized.

17. Use of the compostable food and / or beverage container according to claims 1 to 13 for preparing beverages and / or food products in a beverage preparation machine.

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