Product made of biodegradable material and process for producing products made of biodegradable material

Abstract

Described are a product and a process (300) for producing products made of a biodegradable material having at least one first ply (200) comprising at least one outer layer (250) and one functional layer (260), wherein at least the outer layer (250) consists of a biodegradable material and wherein the outer layer (250) comprises fibre material, wherein the at least one first ply (200) comprises at least one first joining section (210), by means of which the at least one first ply (200) is connected to a corresponding second joining section (220) of the at least one first ply (200) or a second ply (200) and wherein the total layer thickness of the product in a joining region (160) between the first joining section (210) and the second joining section (220) is substantially identical to the total layer thickness of the at least one first ply (200) in a region remote from the joining region (160).

Description

[0001] PRODUCT MADE FROM BIODEGRADABLE MATERIAL AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING PRODUCTS MADE FROM BIODEGRADABLE MATERIAL

[0002] Description

[0003] Technical area

[0004] A product made of biodegradable material and a process for producing products made of biodegradable material are described, wherein products have at least one cover layer made of a biodegradable material and at least one functional layer.

[0005] A top layer of the product can in particular comprise fibrous material, whereby fibrous material is increasingly being used, for example, to produce packaging for food (e.g. bowls, capsules, boxes, etc.) and consumer goods (e.g. electronic devices, etc.) as well as beverage containers. In addition, other media and substances, such as cosmetics, etc., are offered in containers made from natural packaging materials (e.g. fibrous material). Everyday objects, such as disposable cutlery and tableware, are also made from fibrous material. Fibrous materials include both natural fibers (e.g.

[0006] Cellulose fibers) as well as synthetic fibers. Recently, there has been an increasing use of fiber-containing materials that contain natural fibers or are made from materials that can be obtained, for example, from renewable raw materials or recycled paper.

[0007] background

[0008] Fibrous materials can be processed in a moist or dry state. For example, dry fibers can be separated and the separated fibers sucked through a molding tool for suction to form a preform with a relatively loose fiber composite in the form of a molded part. The preform can then be pressed into the finished molded part, whereby pressing can take place at high temperatures (> 200 °C). In dry processing, in which a fiber fleece or the separated fibers can be or are only slightly moistened and / or provided with an additive, for example to influence the bonding properties of the fibers and / or the mechanical and chemical properties of a finished product, this is generally referred to as a "dry fiber" processing process. The moisture content of the fibers in dry processing can, for example, be 0 to 35 wt.-%.

[0009] In a "wet fiber" processing process, natural fibers can be mixed with water and, if necessary, other additives, such as starch, in a so-called pulp. The pulp can, for example, contain between 0.5 and 10% by weight of natural fibers. The proportion of natural fibers varies depending on the process used to produce packaging, etc., and the properties of the product to be manufactured. Typically, the fibers are drawn from the pulp using a molding tool for suction. Similar to the suction in a "dry fiber" processing process, the fibers then adhere to a suction surface that essentially corresponds to the geometry of a molded part to be produced. In this process, liquid is also drawn in, which can be drawn into a reservoir via openings and from there fed back into the pulp. The suction also causes the drawn-in fiber cake or the resulting preform to be dewatered.Typically, such a moist preform has a moisture content of 50 to 70 wt.% after suction. Such a preform can then be pressed in a molding station with cavities for final shaping, with heat application removing most of the residual moisture.

[0010] Additives in a pulp or fiber composite can affect color, barrier properties and mechanical properties.

[0011] EP 2 376 336 A1, for example, discloses a bottle made of biodegradable material. It consists of two mold halves, each with flange sections provided on the periphery of the mold halves, and has a barrier film arranged on a concave inner section of each of the mold halves and extending onto the flange sections. To form a bottle, the mold halves are connected to one another via their respective flange sections and the barrier film, with the barrier film having unfolded bellows that can adapt to the concave sections of the mold halves after filling.

[0012] However, such a bottle has several disadvantages. Firstly, the circumferential flange proves to be annoying when handling such a bottle and, secondly, bottles with a flange are rejected for aesthetic reasons by consumers who prefer a classic bottle design. The difficulties in handling relate, for example, to automatic filling, where the flange requires the bottle to be aligned. In contrast, with glass bottles with a cylindrical bottle body, no orientation and alignment of the bottle is necessary. Furthermore, the shape of the bottle known from EP 2 376 336 A1 is limited to flat versions due to the unfolded bellows and the design as a bottle that expands when filled. The flat design thus supports the sudden expansion of the bottle when filled.With other geometries there is a high risk that the halves and the connecting points could be damaged or even destroyed. The stated advantage of such designs is the small space requirement before filling. Due to the design described, separate adjusting elements must be formed or provided on the outside of the halves so that the bottles can be stood upright after filling. Without such adjusting elements, standing upright would not be possible due to the circumferential flange alone. Finally, the internal design of such a bottle is also disadvantageous because areas arise within the contents surrounded by the barrier films, especially in the joining area of ​​the barrier films at the flange sections and folds of the bellows, where components of liquids (e.g. fruit juices) can accumulate.

[0013] Task

[0014] In contrast, the object is to remedy the disadvantages of the prior art, to provide an alternative to known products, in particular for the storage of media and substances, and to provide products made of biodegradable material, as well as a manufacturing process for such products, in particular providing secure storage of various media and substances and providing products that are simply designed.

[0015] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a product made of a biodegradable material with at least one first layer which has at least one cover layer made of a biodegradable fiber material, wherein the at least one first layer has at least one first connecting section via which the at least one first layer is connected to a corresponding second connecting section of the at least one first layer or a second layer, at least the at least one first connecting section has a functional layer via which the first connecting section and the second connecting section are connected to one another, and the total layer thickness of the product in a connecting region between the first connecting section and the second connecting section is substantially the same as the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer in a region away from the connecting region.

[0016] This provides a product made of biodegradable material that meets visual and haptic requirements that are achieved, for example, for known storage containers made of plastic or glass. The connecting sections of the at least one layer can extend in particular in the plane and / or the planar extension of the at least one first layer in the region away from the connecting region. Thus, the connecting sections do not protrude from a surface section of the at least one first layer and form an extension of the surface section, wherein the connecting sections follow either the curvature or a planar extension of the surface section. The formation of the connecting sections in the connecting region thus enables the provision of a product that does not have a protruding connecting region, as is required in the prior art.Products made from renewable raw materials, in particular, are often subject to processing restrictions regarding their design, such as joints, etc. The design of the product's connecting sections allows for the production of cans, bottles, or boxes that have no noticeable or visually perceptible joints. Furthermore, a product is provided that, in other designs, can have a seamless surface with a functional layer on its interior, for example.

[0017] The connection in the connection area is made via the at least one functional layer on at least one connection section. The functional layer has properties that enable a connection to a further functional layer or a fiber material of the second connection section. The connection in the connection area is made in such a way that the abutting ends in the first connection section and the second connection section create a seamless formation, so that the product has no abutting edges or depressions. The connection sections are designed accordingly for this purpose and have a reduced layer thickness compared to their adjacent surface sections away from the connection area, so that a substantially constant layer thickness can be provided in the connection area.

[0018] In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can also be biodegradable and, for this purpose, comprises or consists of biodegradable material. This provides a product that is completely biodegradable. Depending on the materials used for the at least one functional layer, the product can be compostable industrially or in a private household.

[0019] In further embodiments, the second connecting section can also have a functional layer.

[0020] In further embodiments, the first connecting section and the second connecting section can be connected to one another via the functional layers in the connecting region.

[0021] In further embodiments, the at least one layer can have at least one functional layer away from the connecting region, which extends into the first connecting section and / or the second connecting section. In embodiments with functional layers on surface sections of the layers away from the at least one connecting region, a continuous surface with at least one functional layer can be provided, which can extend on an inner side and / or an outer side of the product. The at least one functional layer can extend completely over the at least one cover layer of a corresponding layer.

[0022] Such a product can, for example, be designed as a bottle for beverages. For this purpose, two layers can be formed into a rotationally symmetrical body via their connecting sections, wherein the body tapers to a bottle neck in an upper end region and is open at a lower end region. The two layers can have a further connecting section in this region, which forms a common, circumferential connecting section, via which a further layer, designed, for example, as a base element, is connected by its connecting section to the common connecting section of the bottle body. Depending on the selected design of the layers, a greater layer thickness can also be present in the base connecting region.Advantageously, the connection is made via the at least one functional layer, which is connected to a functional layer of a further layer or to the same layer at least on the inside of a product in the connection area, so that a continuous surface with a functional layer can be provided. In further embodiments, a bottle or can body can be provided by a single layer which has a first connecting section and a second connecting section at opposite ends, which can be connected to one another in the connection area via the at least one functional layer. In still further embodiments, in the area of ​​a base element, e.g. for a bottle, the connection can be made via at least one functional layer, which e.g.is provided as an inner wall coating of the rotating body, wherein the contact area of ​​the base element has no functional layer in the connection area, so that the connection is only made via at least one functional layer assigned to a part (rotating body). Likewise, for example, only the base element can have at least one functional layer in the connection area, which is connected to a fiber material of the cover layer of the rotating or bottle base body. In the case of a bottle, however, the design of a functional layer, which can also serve as a barrier, must be such that, for example, a closed inner surface is formed as a barrier. In this case, the connection area must be designed accordingly with at least one functional layer.While a bottle is described as a solid of revolution, this should not be seen as restrictive for other bottle designs, which may have a similar structure but essentially have a polygonal cross-section (triangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.) with rounded corners. Such bottle designs are familiar, for example, from plastic drinking bottles.

[0023] In further embodiments, the first connecting section and the second connecting section can be of identical or different design. In embodiments with an identically designed first connecting section and second connecting section, this can simplify the connection of at least one first layer because the first connecting sections and second connecting sections are consistently compatible. This also ensures that a first connecting section can be connected to both another first connecting section and a second connecting section. Connection to further layers is also easily possible because the connecting sections can always be connected to one another.

[0024] In designs with differently designed first and second connecting sections, for example, the connection options can be fixed and no incorrect connection can occur. In this case, the design features of the connecting sections can include corresponding connecting elements (the "Poka Yoke" principle).

[0025] In further embodiments, the proportion of the at least one cover layer and / or the at least one functional layer in the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer in the area away from the connecting area can be different from the proportion in the connecting area. For the connection of the two connecting sections (first connecting section and second connecting section), an overall layer can be formed by the cover layer and / or the functional layer of the two connecting sections to be connected to one another, wherein an overall cover layer and / or an overall functional layer in the connecting area can therefore be at least as large as the respective partial layers, the layer thickness of which is sufficiently large to fulfill their function in the surface section away from the connecting area, due to the partial cover layers and / or partial functional layers.Thus, by adjusting the layer thicknesses, it can be ensured that the desired function is maintained while at the same time the total layer thickness in the connecting area does not exceed the layer thickness in the adjacent surface sections, i.e., a constant layer thickness can be provided across the entire product. In further designs, for example, a thicker total layer thickness of functional layers can create a stronger bond in the connecting area, so that, for example, in the event of internal pressure on a closed product, the connecting area is not a weak point.

[0026] In further embodiments, the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer or the at least one functional layer in the region away from the connection region can be substantially the same as the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer or the at least one functional layer in the connection region. In these embodiments, either the layer thickness of the functional layer or the cover layer in the connection region can remain the same as in adjacent surface sections, with the other layer having a smaller layer thickness in order to maintain a constant overall layer thickness. However, the partial layers ensure that the overall functional layer thickness or overall cover layer thickness is maintained in the connection region, which is crucial for providing the essential function (e.g., barrier property of the functional layer).

[0027] In further embodiments, the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer or the at least one functional layer in the connection area can decrease or increase gradually or continuously compared to the layer thickness in the area away from the connection area. This ensures a continuous transition and a consistent, constant total layer thickness and consistent, constant partial layer thicknesses across the entire surface of the product.

[0028] In further embodiments, the layer thicknesses of the at least one cover layer and / or the at least one functional layer can vary in the connection area, whereby the total layer thicknesses of the respective layers (functional layer, cover layer) remain the same. In further embodiments, a varying layer thickness includes, for example, sawtooth, wavy (e.g., sinusoidal), or rectangular profiles. Profiles of connection sections can have multiple segments in further embodiments. Such a profile design in the connection areas can, for example, serve to achieve precise alignment in terms of position and width. Depending on the design of the profiles, it can also be ensured that no "incorrect" connection of two connection areas occurs if individual segments of a profile are different from one another and can only be connected with a corresponding segment of an opposite connection section or profile.Furthermore, this can result in a connection area having greater strength. In a bottle-like or can-shaped body with a connection area running in the axial direction, for example, high pressure within this body can place significant stress on the connection area. A connection area with toothed connection sections can prevent forces acting tangentially on the connection area due to internal pressure in the body from causing the connection sections to tear apart. In particular, the design of profiles with contact surfaces aligned parallel to one another (e.g., rectangular profiles) can provide good interlocking or "claw" between the two connection sections, preventing damage to the connection areas.This also applies to surface loads in the case of tensile forces acting on the connection area, whereby a product does not necessarily have to be exposed to internal pressure or be designed as a bottle / can.

[0029] The contact surfaces of profiles of two connecting sections to be joined are preferably aligned such that a force acting on the connecting area is perpendicular to the contact surfaces. Designs with contact surfaces aligned in this way therefore offer advantages in terms of the mechanical properties of connecting areas compared to designs with a wave-like profile, since a force acting perpendicularly on the connecting area cannot cause sliding along the contact surfaces.

[0030] In further embodiments, the at least one cover layer or the at least one functional layer in the first connecting section and / or in the second connecting section can project beyond a free end of the at least one first layer. This means that, for example, the functional layer can fulfill its function both on one surface of the at least one layer and, in its connecting section, form a connection with the functional layer of the other layer or the second connecting section of the first layer. In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer in the first connecting section and / or in the second connecting section can be folded over in the region of a free end. In particular, the at least one functional layer can not only extend over the surface of the layer, but also completely cover a connecting section, thereby further improving the connection with a corresponding functional layer.This ensures, in particular, a secure connection and the fulfillment of the function of the functional layer.

[0031] In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can have barrier properties. Barrier properties can, for example, represent a liquid barrier, a gas barrier, and / or an aroma barrier, so that no media or substances contained in a product can penetrate the at least one layer (e.g., leakage). Furthermore, this prevents gas from escaping, for example, when storing carbonated beverages. Finally, it can also prevent, for example, flavorings from evaporating and / or unwanted flavors from outside from penetrating the interior of a product.

[0032] In further embodiments, the fiber material of the at least one cover layer can be polar and the at least one functional layer can be a thermoplastic. This enables the connection in the connection area via high-frequency welding, whereby the polar fiber material is heated by the electromagnetic field and the generated heat is transferred to the thermoplastic, which then forms a connection either with another thermoplastic of the corresponding connection section or with the fiber material of the corresponding connection section. The at least one functional layer itself does not have to be an RF-active material. This embodiment offers the possibility of selecting from a variety of thermoplastics in order to be able to create the connection as well as to use a biodegradable material for the connection and, in further embodiments, as a barrier.A further advantage is that during an HF welding process the welding tool itself does not get hot and therefore the fiber material is not damaged.

[0033] The advantage of a joining process using indirect HF welding is that, for example, no hot welding stamps need to be brought to the joining area, so that there is no damage or destruction to the layers and the product.

[0034] In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can comprise an RF-active material, so that in addition to indirect welding, direct RF welding can take place, whereby the thermoplastic material is heated not only by the heat generated in the fiber material by the RF energy but also by the provided RF energy. The connection can be supported by direct RF welding of the at least one functional layer. In yet further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can comprise an RF-active material in the first connection section and in the second connection section.

[0035] In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer and the at least one cover layer of the at least one first layer can be glued and / or pressed together. For example, the formation of the at least one layer can be achieved by laminating a functional layer to the cover layer. Such an embodiment is simpler and thus more resource-efficient and cost-effective than subsequent coating in a finished product, particularly in bottles.

[0036] In yet further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can be applied at least in the first connecting section by a coating process, such as spraying or vapor deposition. In yet further embodiments, partial immersion can also be used to apply a functional layer. In yet further embodiments, the area in which the at least one functional layer is applied can be roughened, so that a larger surface is available for receiving the at least one functional layer and the connection is improved.

[0037] The at least one cover layer and / or the at least one functional layer can themselves consist of a layer composite, for example, having several sublayers that are bonded to one another. Sublayers can be bonded mechanically, chemically, or electrostatically. Furthermore, such sublayers can have different orientations relative to one another, which can, for example, influence the barrier properties. In further embodiments, the at least one cover layer can be printed as the outer layer of a product or provided with a label and, for example, contain information about the contents and / or their use. Furthermore, the cover layer can ensure the stability of the product.

[0038] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a method for producing a product from biodegradable material, comprising the following steps: providing at least one first layer which has at least one cover layer and at least in a first connecting section a functional layer, wherein the cover layer consists of a biodegradable material and has fiber material,

[0039] Aligning the at least one first connecting section of the at least one first layer with respect to a second connecting section of the at least one first layer or a second layer, wherein the at least one functional layer of the at least one first connecting section is brought into contact with the at least one second connecting section at least in some areas, and connecting the at least one first connecting section and the at least one second connecting section in a connecting area via the at least one functional layer of the at least one first connecting section, wherein the total layer thickness of the product in the connecting area between at least one first connecting section and at least one second connecting section is substantially the same as the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer in an area away from the connecting area.

[0040] The process enables the manufacture of products whereby, for example, no connecting flange or the like is required for the manufacture of bottles or similar products. Furthermore, the connection area is seamless, unlike known connections of products made from a biodegradable material. In addition to an aesthetic appearance which corresponds, for example, to that of known designs (e.g. bottles), the seamless design offers the possibility of continuing handling and processing analogous to known methods (e.g. filling, etc.). The process is further characterized by the simple connection, for which the corresponding connecting sections are brought into contact with one another with at least one functional layer and then the permanent connection in the connection area is made via the at least one functional layer.In particular, a seamless formation of an overall covering layer over the entire surface on an outer side of the product as well as a seamless formation of an overall functional layer over the entire surface on an inner side of the product can be achieved.

[0041] In further embodiments, the at least one first connecting section and the at least one second connecting section can be connected to one another in the connecting region via the at least one functional layer by gluing and / or welding.

[0042] In further embodiments, the at least one first connecting section and the at least one second connecting section can be connected to one another in the connecting region via the at least one functional layer by means of HF welding or thermal contact welding.

[0043] In this case, gluing and / or welding can take place via the at least one functional layer in the connection area, wherein the at least one functional layer can comprise an activatable material which, after activation, can form a permanent connection with a corresponding functional layer or with fiber material and thus provide a permanent connection.

[0044] In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer can have barrier properties and a barrier can be formed in the connection region between the at least one first connection section and the at least one second connection section via the at least one functional layer by welding or gluing. The barrier can serve to prevent liquids from leaking out. Furthermore, a vapor barrier can be provided additionally or alternatively. The formation of a barrier in the connection region ensures that a barrier layer is formed over the entire surface of the product across the connection region. In embodiments with a layered structure of the at least one functional layer, partial layers can also be provided, which can each be connected to corresponding partial layers, thus creating a multi-layer connection.It is possible to provide multiple barrier layers within a functional layer, whereby the barrier properties of the respective layers can differ and / or new barrier properties can be achieved through a layered structure. In a functional layer with multiple sublayers, intermediate layers can also be provided between barrier layers, providing additional functions (e.g., providing RF-active material, connecting sublayers, etc.).

[0045] In further embodiments, the provision of the at least one layer can comprise bonding the at least one cover layer to the at least one functional layer. In further embodiments, the at least one cover layer and the at least one functional layer of the at least one first layer can be bonded and / or pressed together, or the at least one functional layer can be formed by vapor deposition, spraying, or at least partial immersion in a corresponding bath.

[0046] In further embodiments, after a joining step of the at least one first joining section and the at least one second joining section, an additional pressing of the joining region can take place, whereby a uniform layer thickness is provided over the entire surface of the product. In further embodiments, especially in the joining region, depending on the material used in the functional layers for bonding or welding, material expansion or deformation can occur during bonding or welding, which can cause an increase in the layer thickness. By means of a staggered pressing, which can take place independently of the pressing pressure during welding or bonding, the layer thickness is brought to the required level. A significant advantage is, for example, compared to re-pressing or pressing with a relatively hot tool (e.g.The advantage of thermal contact welding is that there is no additional heating of the connection area, which would damage the previously created connection. For this purpose, the additional pressing can be carried out using a separate pressing tool or an HF welding tool, which can also have temperature-controlled pressing tool parts. This allows the connection area to be thermally influenced during welding or during additional pressing or re-pressing, and the connection can be specifically influenced. Cooling of a connection area during re-pressing, as well as "keeping warm" or heating during re-pressing or welding, can take place, whereby the temperature during heating can be below the welding temperature in the at least one functional layer for the primary connection.

[0047] In further embodiments, the connection of the first connecting section and the second connecting section in a connecting region via the at least one functional layer can be carried out by means of an HF welding process, wherein the fiber material of the at least one cover layer is polar and the at least one functional layer comprises thermoplastic material, wherein polar fiber material of the at least one cover layer is heated in the connecting region via the high-frequency energy introduced by means of an electromagnetic field and thermoplastic material of the at least one functional layer is heated in the connecting region via this and connected to at least one adjacent cover layer.

[0048] The above-mentioned statements and advantages for a product and for the process for manufacturing a product also apply to the other version (process, product).

[0049] Further features, embodiments and advantages emerge from the following presentation of embodiments with reference to the figures.

[0050] Short description of the characters

[0051] In the drawings shows:

[0052] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a layer of biodegradable material with a first connecting section and a second connecting section; Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a molded part half;

[0053] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of a molded part;

[0054] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of two molded part halves for a molded part designed as a bottle;

[0055] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area;

[0056] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a further embodiment;

[0057] Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a still further embodiment;

[0058] Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a still further embodiment;

[0059] Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a further embodiment after re-pressing;

[0060] Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a still further embodiment;

[0061] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a process for producing a product from biodegradable material;

[0062] Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the area of ​​the base; Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a further embodiment;

[0063] Fig. 14 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a still further embodiment; and

[0064] Fig. 15 is a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection area in a further embodiment.

[0065] Detailed description of implementation examples

[0066] Below, exemplary embodiments of the technical teaching described herein are presented with reference to the figures. The same reference numerals are used for identical components, parts, and processes in the description of the figures. Components, parts, and processes that are not essential to the technical teaching disclosed herein or that would be obvious to a person skilled in the art are not explicitly shown. Features stated in the singular are also included in the plural, unless explicitly stated otherwise. This applies in particular to statements such as "a" or "an."

[0067] The figures show exemplary embodiments of products or molded parts 100 as well as parts thereof and methods 300 for producing products or molded parts. The exemplary embodiments shown do not represent any limitation with regard to further developments and modifications of the described embodiments.

[0068] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a layer 200 made of biodegradable material with a first connecting section 210 and a second connecting section 220. The layer 200 has a surface section 240, along whose opposite edges the connecting sections 210, 220 run. The layer 200 has a layer structure consisting of at least one cover layer 250 and at least one functional layer 260. The cover layer 250 can consist of a fibrous material and can be produced, for example, by sucking or scooping fibers from a pulp, wherein the sucked-in fibers can be pressed in a further processing step.

[0069] Alternatively, the cover layer 250 can also be produced in a fiber processing process, whereby essentially dry fibers are pressed into the desired shape. The fibers can be, for example, cellulose fibers or obtained from waste paper, etc. Finally, the cover layer 250 can be made from a paper-like source material. The cover layer 250 consists of a biodegradable material and can therefore be easily recycled and, for example, reused for the manufacture of products or composted.

[0070] In the embodiments shown, the at least one functional layer 260 can also consist of a biodegradable material. In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer 260 can also consist of other materials that provide a connection between connecting sections 210, 220, 230. In the embodiments shown, the at least one functional layer can additionally have barrier properties so that, for example, liquids, aromas, and / or gases can be retained. In further embodiments, a material that can be recycled, for example, can be used for the at least one functional layer 260. The material of the functional layer 260 can, for example, comprise microfibrillated cellulose (MFC). Such a material can be highly compacted through appropriate processing due to the very small fiber lengths (0.1 to several micrometers; diameters of 5 to 60 nanometers) and thus have good barrier properties.To achieve thermoplastic properties, MFC can be mixed with thermoplastics to bond at least one connecting section. Furthermore, biodegradable polyesters, in particular aliphatic polyesters, a quantity of one or more polyesters from the group consisting of PBS, PHB, PHA, PCL, PLA, PGA, PHBH, PHBV, micro-thin polymer / PLA7 films and / or another suitable environmentally friendly, biodegradable plastic or other (natural) barrier material can be used as material or component for the at least one functional layer 260. If a special type of bond (e.g., HF welding) is selected for bonding the connecting sections 210, 220, a thermoplastic material should be used for the at least one functional layer, which material can bond to a fiber material or a functional layer of a corresponding connecting section 220, 210 through the action of heat.In this case, the electromagnetic field can heat the polar fiber material of the at least one cover layer 250, whereby the heating of the fiber material causes the thermoplastic material of the adjacent functional layer 260 to heat or melt. In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer 260, 270, 280 can consist of or comprise an RF-active material so that the bonding process can be supported. However, this is not absolutely necessary. In further embodiments, the at least one functional layer 260 can comprise PE. PE is a thermoplastic and can be easily heated to create a bond with a fiber material or another functional layer 260, e.g. PE. In yet further embodiments, the at least one functional layer 260 can have a layered structure. The layered structure can, for example, comprise two layers of PE with a layer of EVH or EVOH between them.EVH and EVOH exhibit very good barrier properties. For bonding with fiber material, the barrier layer 260 (EVOH, EVH) must have an adhesive layer, which may, for example, comprise PE. In further embodiments, a layer structure for at least one connecting section 210, 220, 230 can also comprise only two layers, with the corresponding connecting section 210, 220, 230 correspondingly having an adhesive layer that can be bonded to a non-thermoplastic barrier.

[0071] The connecting sections 210, 220 can be designed, for example, as shown and described below.

[0072] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a molded part half 110 for the production of a molded part 100, in particular a bottle. The bottle forms the product to be manufactured. The molded part half 110 has a lower section for a base 150, at the free end of which a further connecting section 230 is provided. Via the connecting section 230, for example, a molded part base 130 can be connected to a corresponding connecting section. The connection in this area can be made via a different design of the corresponding connecting sections, which differs from the design of the connecting sections 210, 220. For this connection, for example, the same method (e.g. HF welding) can be used. In the upper area, the molded part half 110 has an upwardly tapered section for a rim 140 of a bottle.On the sides, the molded part half 110 has a first connecting section 210 and a second connecting section 220. The first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220 can be designed according to the embodiments shown below. Furthermore, the first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220 can be designed the same or differently. A surface section 240 of the molded part half 110 extends between the connecting sections 210, 220. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the surface section 240 has a substantially semi-cylindrical shape, so that a cylindrical bottle body can be produced by two correspondingly designed molded halves 110. The connecting sections 210, 220 follow the curvature or profile of the surface section 240, as shown in Fig. 2b.

[0073] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a molded part 100 consisting of a single layer 200. The molded part 100 is connected via the connecting sections 210 and 220, as indicated by the arrows pointing towards each other. The molded part 100 shown can, for example, serve as a base body for a can or be used as a casing.

[0074] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a first mold half 110 and a second mold half 120 for a molded part 100 or product designed as a bottle. The two mold halves 110 and 120 are aligned with one another such that the first connecting section 210 of the first mold half 110 engages the second connecting section 220 of the second mold half 120, and the second connecting section 220 of the first mold half 110 engages the first connecting section 210 of the second mold half 120.

[0075] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160. The section shown can be, for example, a connecting region 160 between the two molded part halves 110 and 120 from Fig. 5 or a connecting region of the can-shaped molded part 100 from Fig. 3.

[0076] In the connecting region 160, two layers 200 overlap in regions 252. These can be regions 252 of a single layer 200 or two separate layers 200. The layers 200 each have a cover layer 250 and a functional layer 260. The layer thicknesses of the functional layer 260 and the cover layer 250 in the surface sections 240 of the two layers 200 are essentially the same. In the connecting region 160, regions 252 of the cover layer 250 have a reduced layer thickness. The transition from the surface sections 240 to the connecting region 160 is steeply sloping. In further embodiments, the transition can also be designed differently. The functional layer 260 has a constant layer thickness over the entire surface, i.e., both in the surface sections 240 and in the connecting region 160.The functional layer 260 extends further beyond a free end of the regions 252 and runs to the opposite surface of the cover layers 250 of the layers 200. In further embodiments, a further functional layer 270 can be located on this surface, which can have the same properties as the functional layer 260 and can be made of the same material. In still further embodiments, the functional layer 270 can be made of a different material than the functional layer 260 and have different properties. The functional layer 270 can, for example, provide a printable surface or a further barrier against external influences. For this purpose, the functional layer 260 is preferably located on the inside of a product or molded part 100 to be manufactured (e.g., a bottle).

[0077] In the embodiments shown, the functional layer 260 can have barrier properties and thus ensure, when the two layers 200 are connected, that no substance or medium contained in a product can escape from the interior of a product. Furthermore, the connection between the two layers 200 in the regions 252 is established via the functional layer 260. For this purpose, the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 is a functional layer 260 made of thermoplastic material or a layer composite, as stated above. The connection of the two layers 200 can be achieved by high-frequency welding, wherein the polar fiber material of the cover layers 250, which comprises, for example, cellulose fibers, is heated to a high degree.Heating the cover layers 250 results in the thermoplastic material of the functional layer 260 in the first connecting section 210 in the region 252 forming a permanent bond with the thermoplastic material of the functional layer 260 in the second connecting section 220 in the region 252, thus providing a continuous functional layer 260 on the inside of a product. The electromagnetic field for providing the high-frequency energy is provided, for example, in a range from 5 MHz to 1 GHz. Preferably, the field is provided at 27 MHz, 40 MHz, and especially at 27.12 MHz, 40.68 MHz, or 433 MHz. The field can only be provided in the connecting region 160, so that the cover layers 250 are not heated in the surface sections 240.

[0078] The layer thickness of the cover layer 250 in the regions 252 enables the formation of a consistently uniform layer thickness of a product both in the surface sections 240 of the layers 200 and in the connecting region 160. In addition, the formation enables the provision of a seamless transition between the layers 200 via the connecting sections 210 and 220. Due to the formation of the first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220, the functional layers 260 in the connecting region 160 lie completely against one another and are connected to one another, so that no gaps, etc. exist. Thus, the product has a seamless, continuous surface across the connecting region 160, both on an inner side and on an outer side of a product.

[0079] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in a further embodiment, wherein the connecting sections 210, 220 are configured differently. In the embodiment shown, the regions 252 of the connecting sections 210, 220 have a wedge-like configuration, so that the two layers 200 can be aligned via the connecting sections 210, 220 and held in position after they have been brought into contact with one another. A connection is then made by welding, with the functional layers 160 being configured accordingly, especially in the connecting region 160.

[0080] In further embodiments, the connection can be made, for example, by thermal contact welding, wherein welding tools with a hot surface melt the functional layers 260, thereby bonding the functional layers 260 to one another. In alternative embodiments, the connection of the functional layers 260 in the connection region 160 can also be made via RF welding, wherein, for this purpose, at least in the connection region 160, the cover layers 250 in the regions 252 comprise polar fiber material and are therefore heatable. In yet further embodiments, the functional layers 260 can also comprise or consist of an RF-active material and thus support the bonding process.

[0081] Finally, an additional barrier is provided via the functional layer 260 so that no liquids, gases, or the like can pass through from the interior of a product. Finally, as indicated in Fig. 5, additional functional layers 270 can be provided, which, as explained above, can have the same properties as the functional layer 260, or can be designed differently and can consist of a different material or have a different material. Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in yet another embodiment, wherein the connecting sections 210, 220 have regions 252 that slope continuously. The functional layer 260 extends over the lower surface of the cover layers 250 into the connecting region 160.Analogous to the embodiments described above, a further functional layer 270 can be provided on the upper side. The functional layer 270 can have additional barrier properties and differ in layer thickness from the functional layer 260.

[0082] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in a still further embodiment, wherein the regions 252 without transition have a smaller layer thickness in the connecting region 160.

[0083] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in yet another embodiment after pressing. The regions 252 are connected via the functional layers 260 in the connecting region 160, both when connected by welding and when bonded. In this case, the layer thickness in the connecting region 160 can increase if the material of the functional layers 260 is heated for welding. During the connection, for example, an adhesive can also be introduced into the connecting region 160 or the functional layer 260 can be activated (e.g., by providing an electromagnetic field), thereby transitioning into a viscous state.The additional material in the connecting region 160 leads to an increase in the layer thickness, so that the connecting section 160 can have a total layer thickness Di after the connection, as schematically indicated by the dashed lines.

[0084] The pressure on the bonding region 160 during bonding may not be sufficient to counteract an increase in layer thickness so that an adhesive or molten material is not forced out of the bonding region 160.

[0085] After the primary connection by welding or gluing, subsequent pressing can be performed in the connection area 160 at a short interval. The time interval can be determined depending on the material used for the functional layer 260 and / or the cover layer 250, the layer thickness of the functional layer 260 and / or the cover layer 250, and the selected connection type, taking into account the degree to which the connection has already cured. In an HF welding process, the time interval between the connection process and the subsequent pressing can depend on the frequency, with the frequency being selected according to the layer thicknesses and the material used.

[0086] The pressure during joining (e.g., during welding) and for subsequent pressing can, in turn, be determined according to the layer thicknesses and the materials used. Furthermore, the degree of curing or the state of the connection between the functional layers 260 is decisive for determining the pressure. Suitable pressures on the connecting region 160 during joining (e.g., welding) and / or for subsequent pressing for total layer thicknesses of 0.5 to 2 mm or for layer thicknesses of the cover layers 250 in the areas 252 of 0.5 to 1 mm and layer thicknesses of the functional layers 260 of 30 to 100 μm are 100 to 500 N / cm. 2 , preferably between 200 and 400 N / cm 2It should be noted that with increasing layer thickness of the cover layers 250 in the areas 252, these may yield more if they were made from a fiber pulp or fiber fleece. An elastic deformation component during post-pressing must also be taken into account. The pressure for post-pressing may decrease with increasing width in the connection area 160. Separate pressing tools can be used for post-pressing, which are thermally decoupled from the previous connection processes and the tools used for them.

[0087] The pressing tool can be applied completely to a connection area 160 in the surface. This further improves the seamless connection, as there are no double press points due to an overlapping area during post-pressing. The pressing tool usually comprises two tool parts that act on the connection area 160 from both sides. The pressing tool can, for example, be an HF welding tool that continues to exert pressure on the connection area 160 for post-pressing for a specified period of time. By heating via temperature control medium in the pressing unit or HF welding tool, the temperature flow in the connection area can be specifically controlled and there is no temperature gradient there. In the manufacture of bottles or similar products, a bottle base can be subsequently connected to a bottle body, as shown in Fig. 12. The bottle body can be previously processed as described with reference to Fig.4, formed by two molded halves 110, 120. Subsequent pressing can thus be carried out by a pressing tool acting from the outside on a connecting area 160 between the first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220 and a pressing tool inserted into the bottle body in the area of ​​the base 150, which then presses against the connecting area 160 from the inside.

[0088] Post-pressing or additional pressing can also be understood as maintaining a pressing pressure that is applied during the introduction of RF energy for welding and is also maintained after the introduction of RF energy, whereby in further embodiments a continuous or gradual decrease in the pressure can also occur.

[0089] As described above, joining tools for welding etc. can also act on a joining area 160 from the outside and inside in the case of hollow molded parts 100.

[0090] After re-pressing, a connecting region has a reduced layer thickness D2, which corresponds to the total layer thickness of the layers 200 in the surface sections 240.

[0091] In further embodiments, a pressing tool (separate pressing tool or HF welding tool) can be temperature-controlled for post-pressing, for example to keep material of the at least one functional layer 260 sufficiently warm during post-pressing so that it can form a connection or gaps can be closed. For example, in still further embodiments with an HF welding tool, this can be heatable to control the temperature flow in the connection area 160. Heat can preferably be applied in the overlap area, the connection area 160, where a high material thickness can be present. By additional heating from the outside, independent of the heating by the HF energy, a temperature gradient can be prevented. For example, such a welding tool can be heatable up to approximately 100°C.In embodiments with only one functional layer 260 in the connecting region 160, wherein viscous thermoplastic material is bonded to fiber material of a corresponding connecting section 220, the fiber material in the connecting section 220 can be roughened to achieve a good bond between the fiber material and the thermoplastic material. In further embodiments, the fiber material in this connecting section can also have bonding features (such as troughs, etc.) to improve the bond. In further embodiments, the connecting section 220 can be frayed or provided with teeth at its free end.

[0092] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection region 160 in yet another embodiment with an adhesive connection between the regions 252. The layers 200 have a functional layer 260 on a later inner or outer side, which forms a barrier. On the opposite side, an additional functional layer 270 can be provided on the cover layers 250, which, as explained above, can be different or similar to the functional layer 260. In this exemplary embodiment, the connection is made by a functional layer 290 in the regions 252. The functional layers 290 are adhesive layers that can be introduced shortly beforehand for a connection or can be activated (e.g., using RF energy).In further embodiments, the formation and / or arrangement of the functional layers 290 can be applied together with the other functional layers 260, with the connection in the connecting region 160 of two or one layer 200 occurring shortly thereafter. The functional layers 290 acting as an adhesive layer extend particularly in the sections of the regions 252 with the largest contact area.

[0093] Fig. 10 schematically shows functional layers 280 that may be additionally provided. The functional layers 280 can serve as a barrier or be designed as adhesive layers. In further embodiments, adhesive layers can also have barrier properties.

[0094] In further embodiments, it is also possible for the regions 252 of the cover layers 250 in the connecting sections 210, 220 to initially be free and for a functional layer 290 to be applied only for a connection, which may be an adhesive.

[0095] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of a method 300 for producing a product from biodegradable material.

[0096] In a method step 310, at least one first layer 200 is provided. The at least one first layer 200 has at least one cover layer 250 and a functional layer 260. The cover layer 250 is made of a biodegradable material. In further embodiments, the functional layer 260 can also be made of a biodegradable material. Preferably, the cover layer 250 consists of or comprises fiber material. The cover layer 250 can be produced, for example, in a preceding method step 350 using a WET process, wherein (cellulose) fibers are sucked in from a pulp and then pressed to form the final molded part half, e.g., a bottle half (Fig. 2; 4). Alternatively, molded part halves or other molded parts can be produced using a DRY process, wherein loose (cellulose) fibers or a fiber fleece are pressed under high pressure and high temperatures to form molded part halves, etc.In addition, a method step 360 may be provided in which cover layers 250 are connected to a functional layer 260 (e.g. by lamination).

[0097] In further embodiments, method steps 310 and 350 may include an additional step of forming connecting sections 210, 220, in which regions 252 are formed by additional pressing (see, for example, Figs. 5 to 10), so that these regions 252 may have different properties in terms of strength and temperature resistance (resistance to high temperatures during welding) in the subsequent connecting region 160.

[0098] After the at least one first layer 200 has been provided, a first connecting section 210 of the at least one first layer 200 is aligned with respect to a second connecting section 220 of the at least one first layer 200 or a second layer 200 in a method step 320, wherein the functional layers 260 of the corresponding layer(s) 200 are brought into contact at least in some areas. The functional layers 260 are preferably arranged relative to one another such that the regions 252 have the final arrangement.

[0099] Subsequently, in a method step 330, the first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220 are connected to one another in a connecting region 160 via the functional layers 260. The connection is made, possibly including further post-treatment steps (e.g., post-pressing), such that the total layer thickness of the product in the connecting region 160 between the first connecting section 210 and the second connecting section 220 is substantially equal to the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer 200 in a surface section 240 away from the connecting region 160.

[0100] To produce the product, at least one process step 340 may include, for example, post-compression as described above or other steps such as filling, closing, printing, etc.

[0101] The connection in method step 330 can be achieved by gluing and / or welding, whereby the functional layers 260 are connected to one another in the connection region 160. Welding can be achieved by means of HF welding or thermal contact welding.

[0102] Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product, here a bottle, in the area of ​​the base 150, after the bottle body has already been manufactured. The molded base 130 has a circumferential ring section and a base part. The ring section and base part are formed as one piece and connected to each other as shown. A functional layer 260 is applied (e.g., laminated) to a cover layer 250 on the outer surface. The functional layer 260 has barrier properties and is made of, or consists of, thermoplastic material.

[0103] To connect the molded part base 130 to the bottle body, the molded part base 130 is inserted into the bottle body from below. The functional layer 260 of the molded part base 130 comes into contact with the functional layer 260 of the bottle body in connection areas 160. Subsequently, HF welding, for example, can be carried out to create a permanent and tight connection across the functional layers 260. Fig. 12 shows, via the schematically indicated arrows, how pressure for subsequent pressing can be applied to the connection areas 160 between the bottle body and the molded part base 130. Welding can also be carried out using tools in this area. Advantageously, a bottle produced in this way has no visually or haptically perceptible seams. The bottle's design corresponds to a known bottle design and can therefore be further processed and filled accordingly.Compared to state-of-the-art bottles with such a design, a bottle manufactured according to the technical teaching presented here is biodegradable and can therefore, for example, be easily composted.

[0104] Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in yet another embodiment, wherein only a relatively small region is provided with a functional layer 260. For example, the region 252 of a first connecting section 210 has the functional layer 260 made of a thermoplastic, which is connected to a polar fiber material of the cover layer 250 in the region 252 of the second connecting section 220.

[0105] Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connection region 160 in yet another embodiment, wherein the right-hand layer 200 has a functional layer 260 that does not extend into the connection region 160. In the various embodiments, it is essential that a connection is made in the connection region 160 via at least one functional layer 260. It is therefore not absolutely necessary for, for example, the first and second connection sections 210, 220 to have a functional layer 260.

[0106] Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of a section of a product in the connecting region 160 in yet another embodiment, wherein the connecting sections 210 and 220 have a rectangular profile with several segments 254, so that the force arising from a tangential load on the connecting region 160 acts on the contact surfaces 256 extending orthogonally to the load. The number of segments 254 can be selected according to the tangential forces F occurring when using a product, e.g., a bottle. T The larger the number of segments 254, the more evenly the force acting on the connecting region 160 can be distributed. In further embodiments, individual segments 254 of a connecting section 210, 220 can be configured with different heights and different widths.

[0107] In the connecting region 160, the connecting sections 210, 220 are connected to one another via at least one functional layer 260. Both connecting sections 210, 220 can have a functional layer 260, as shown, for example, in the enlarged view of Fig. 15.

[0108] In such an embodiment, the contact surfaces 256 extend substantially orthogonally to the force Fr acting on the contact surfaces 256, so that the force F acting on the connecting region 160 T The connecting sections 210, 200 cannot slide on the contact surfaces 256. The connecting area 160 can therefore withstand high tensile forces, as shown in Fig. 15, without being damaged or destroyed. The quality of the connection in the connecting area 160 can be further enhanced by the positive locking. This significantly improves the strength of the seam or the connecting area 160.

[0109] In further embodiments, the layers 200 themselves can have varying layer thicknesses. For this purpose, for example, a cover layer 250 can have a greater wall thickness than in an area away from or adjacent to a connecting area 160 or the areas 252. For the essentially constant layer thickness of a product in the connecting area 160, it is crucial in the technical teaching described here that the connecting area 160 has a layer thickness similar to directly adjacent areas of the layers 200 in the connecting area 160. Thus, it is not necessary for the product to have a constant layer thickness over the entire shell. In further embodiments, a surface section 240 of a layer 200 can have functional elements, such as protruding handles, recessed grips, decorative elements, etc., wherein the layer thickness in these areas can be different from the remaining surface section 240.Preferably, connecting areas 160 run away from such functional elements.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, polar fiber material, such as natural fiber material, is used as the material for the cover layer 250. The layer thickness of the cover layer 250 in the surface section 240 can be 0.5 to 1 mm, preferably 0.6 to 0.8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, a thermoplastic material, such as PE, can be used as the material for the functional layer 260, wherein the layer thickness of the functional layer 260 can be 30 to 100 μm. Thus, such a layer 200 has, for example, a total layer thickness in the surface section 240 in the range of 0.5 to 2 mm. In further embodiments, the total layer thickness can be 0.7 to 2 mm. In still further embodiments, the total layer thickness can be 0.6 to 1.2 mm. In the regions 252, the layer thickness of the functional layer 260 can remain substantially the same, whereby the layer thickness of the cover layer 250 can be 0.6 to 0.8 mm.

[0111] Fiber material for the cover layer 250 can, for example, be provided in an aqueous pulp solution and subsequently processed into a layer in a wet fiber process, as described above. AKD (alkylated ketene dimers) can be admixed to the pulp, so that a layer 200 produced in the wet fiber process contains, for example, 0.5 to 3%, preferably about 3%, AKD.

[0112] The described formation of the layers 200 and a connecting region 160, as well as the production of products with a seamless transition in the connecting region 160, is achieved, among other things, by the material of the cover layers 250 and the functional layers 260, which provides the connection between the individual layers 200 in the connecting region 160. The material of the functional layers 260 can, for example, liquefy at least partially during welding or transition into a viscous state, so that free areas are filled. This can also apply, for example, to depressions on the outer surface at the seam in the connecting region 160. In further embodiments, elevations in the seams in the connecting region 160 can be "flattened" by optional post-pressing in order to ensure a substantially consistent layer thickness across the layers 200 and a connecting region 160.Preferably, the regions 252 of the two layers 200 are aligned with each other such that their free ends directly contact adjacent regions of opposing regions 252. This makes it possible to provide a continuous layer composed of two individual layers 200 or a connected layer 200, which in the connecting region 160 exhibits essentially no differences in layer thickness compared to adjacent regions and exhibits no depressions or elevations, thus greatly improving both handling and visual appearance.

[0113]

[0114] 100 molded parts

[0115] 110 molded part half

[0116] 120 molded part half

[0117] 130 molded floor

[0118] 140 Rand

[0119] 150 floor

[0120] 160 connection area

[0121] 200 location

[0122] 210 first connecting section

[0123] 220 second connecting section

[0124] 230 additional connecting section

[0125] 240 area section

[0126] 250 top layer

[0127] 252 Area

[0128] 254 segments

[0129] 256 contact surface

[0130] 260 functional layer

[0131] 270 functional layer

[0132] 280 functional layer

[0133] 290 adhesive layer

[0134] 300 procedures

[0135] 310 Process step

[0136] 320 process steps

[0137] 330 process step

[0138] 340 process steps

[0139] 350 process steps

[0140] 360 process steps

Claims

Patent claims 1. Product made of a biodegradable material with at least one first layer (200) which has at least one cover layer (250) made of a biodegradable fiber material, wherein the at least one first layer (200) has at least one first connecting section (210) via which the at least one first layer (200) is connected to a corresponding second connecting section (220) of the at least one first layer (200) or a second layer (200), at least the at least one first connecting section (210) has a functional layer (260) via which the first Connecting section (210) and the second connecting section (220) are connected to one another, and the total layer thickness of the product in a connecting region (160) between the first connecting section (210) and the second connecting section (220) is substantially the same as the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer (200) in a region away from the connecting region (160).

2. Product according to claim 1, wherein the at least one functional layer (260) comprises or consists of biodegradable material.

3. Product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second connecting portion (220) has a functional layer (260; 270; 280).

4. Product according to claim 3, wherein the first connecting portion (210) and the second connecting portion (220) are connected to one another via the functional layers (260; 270; 280) in the connecting region (160).

5. Product according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one layer (200) has, apart from the connecting region (160), at least one functional layer (260) which extends into the first connecting section (210) and / or the second connecting section (220).

6. Product according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first connecting portion (210) and the second connecting portion (220) are of the same or different design.

7. Product according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the proportion of the at least one cover layer (250) and / or the at least one functional layer (260) in the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer (200) in the region away from the connecting region (160) is different from the proportion in the connecting region (160).

8. Product according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer (250) or the at least one functional layer (260) in the region away from the connecting region (160) is substantially the same as the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer (250) or the at least one functional layer (260) in the connecting region (160).

9. Product according to one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the layer thickness of the at least one cover layer (250) or of the at least one functional layer (260) in the connecting region (160) decreases or increases gradually or continuously compared to the layer thickness in the region away from the connecting region (160).

10. Product according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the layer thicknesses of the at least one cover layer (250) and / or the at least one functional layer (260) vary in the connecting region (160).

11. Product according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one cover layer (250) or the at least one functional layer (260) in the first connecting section (210) and / or in the second connecting section (220) projects beyond a free end of the at least one first layer (200).

12. Product according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the at least one functional layer (260) is folded over in the first connecting section (210) and / or in the second connecting section (220) in the region of a free end.

13. Product according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one functional layer (260; 270; 280) has barrier properties.

14. Product according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the fiber material of the at least one cover layer (250) is polar and the at least one functional layer (260) is a thermoplastic.

15. Product according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one functional layer (260) comprises an RF-active material.

16. A process for producing a product from biodegradable material, comprising the following steps: Providing at least one first layer (200) which has at least one cover layer (250) and at least in a first connecting section (210) a functional layer (260), wherein the cover layer (250) consists of a biodegradable material and has fiber material, Aligning the at least one first connecting section (210) of the at least one first layer (200) with respect to a second connecting section (220) of the at least one first layer (200) or a second layer (200), wherein the at least one functional layer (260; 280) of the at least one first connecting section (210) is brought into contact with the at least one second connecting section (220) at least in some areas, and Connecting the at least one first connecting section (210) and the at least one second connecting section (220) in a connecting region (160) via the at least one functional layer (260) of the at least one first connecting section (210), wherein the total layer thickness of the product in the connecting region (160) between at least one first connecting section (210) and at least one second connecting section (220) is substantially the same as the total layer thickness of the at least one first layer (200) in a region away from the connecting region (160).

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the at least one first connecting section (210) and the at least one second connecting section (220) are connected to one another in the connecting region (160) via the at least one functional layer (260; 280) by gluing and / or welding.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the at least one first connecting section (210) and the at least one second connecting section (220) are connected to one another in the connecting region (160) via the at least one functional layer (260; 280) by HF welding or thermal contact welding.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the at least one functional layer (260; 280) has barrier properties and a barrier is formed in the connecting region (160) between the at least one first connecting section (210) and the at least one second connecting section (220) via the at least one functional layer (260; 280) by welding or gluing.

20. Method according to one of claims 16 to 19, wherein after a connecting step of the at least one first connecting section (210) and the at least one second connecting section (220), an additional pressing of the connecting region (160) takes place.

21. The method according to one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the connection of the first connecting section (210) and the second connecting section (220) in a connecting region (160) via the at least one functional layer (160) is effected by means of an HF welding process, wherein the fiber material of the at least one cover layer (250) is polar and the at least one functional layer (260) comprises thermoplastic material, wherein polar fiber material of the at least one cover layer (250) is heated in the connecting region (160) via the high-frequency energy introduced by means of an electromagnetic field and thermoplastic material of the at least one functional layer (260) is welded in the The connecting region (160) is heated and connected to at least one adjacent cover layer (250) and / or a further functional layer (260) made of thermoplastic material.

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