Home compostable bio-based beverage filter media

Abstract

The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filter media, and systems / methods for fabricating and utilizing the beverage filter media. More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous home compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and related methods of fabrication and use. The present disclosure advantageously provides a home compostable beverage filter media including annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

Description

HOME COMPOSTABLE BIO-BASED BEVERAGE FILTER MEDIAFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure relates to beverage filter media and systems / methods for fabricating and utilizing the beverage filter media and, more particularly, to home compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and related methods of fabrication and use.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] In general, some beverage filter media or the like are known. An interest exists for improved beverage filter media, and related methods of fabrication and use.

[0003] These and other inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement are addressed and / or overcome by the beverage filter media, assemblies and methods of the present disclosure.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filter media, and systems / methods for fabricating and utilizing the beverage filter media.

[0005] More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous home compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and related methods of fabrication and use.

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

[0007] Any combination or permutation of embodiments is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosed beverage filter media, assemblies and methods of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures. All references listed in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The following figures are exemplary embodiments wherein the like elements are numbered alike.

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

[0010] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the appended figures. It is to be noted that the various features, steps, and combinations of features / steps described below and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope of the presentdisclosure. To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed beverage filter media, assemblies and methods, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:

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

[0012] Figures 2A and 2B are side views of an exemplary beverage filter media and beverage capsule, according to the present disclosure.

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

[0014] Figure 3 is a side view of another exemplary beverage filter media, according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0015] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative of advantageous beverage filter media, and systems of the present disclosure and methods / techniques thereof. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, details disclosed herein with reference to exemplary beverage filter media and associated processes / techniques of assembly and use are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as the basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to make and use the advantageous beverage filter media and / or alternative beverage filter media of the present disclosure.

[0016] The present disclosure provides advantageous beverage filter media, and systems / methods for fabricating and utilizing the beverage filter media.

[0017] More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous home compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and related methods of fabrication and use.

[0018] In example embodiments, the present disclosure provides for home compostable beverage filter media suitable for use in beverage applications such as, for example, coffee filters or tea bag materials.

[0019] Conventional practice provides that some beverage filter media use some amount of non-biodegradable synthetic fibers (e.g., polypropylene or polyethylene) to allow heat sealing (e.g., sealing the media to itself to make a pouch for containing tea) or allow for attachment to a capsule body (e.g., in coffee applications).

[0020] In example embodiments, the present disclosure advantageously provides home compostable bio-based beverage filter media, and where the beverage filter media does not use synthetic fibers, and is substantially fully cellulose based, and the beverage filter media is able toachieve mechanical sealing (e.g., by crimping), and while providing the required porosity in wet applications without collapsing of the structure (e.g., which cellulose fibers tend to do in wet form).

[0021] The present disclosure provides beverage filter media with sealing properties without requiring thermoplastics fibers. The beverage filter media according to the present disclosure is also advantageously compostable, and even composable in a domestic setting, as discussed further below. In example embodiments, the beverage filter media according to the present disclosure can be used, without limitation, in a coffee capsule or as a tea bag.

[0022] It is noted that some conventional beverage filter media includes synthetic thermoplastic fibers to confer heat seal properties. However, these fibers are not home compostable. For example, polypropylene fibers are used in some conventional tea bags and as filters for beverage capsules to provide heat seal properties. Tea bags and filters for beverage capsules containing polypropylene are not compostable.

[0023] It is noted that replacing polypropylene or the like with synthetic thermoplastic fibers having improved biodegradability such as polylactic acid (PLA) can make the filters compostable but not compostable in a domestic setting.

[0024] As such, there is a need for a beverage filter media compostable in a domestic setting without compromising on mechanical and / or flow properties of the beverage filter media.

[0025] In example embodiments, the present disclosure advantageously provides a home compostable beverage filter media including annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0026] In particular, it is noted that mercerized pulp can be added in the fiber mix used for making a beverage filter media. In general, mercerized pulp is fabricated by subjecting pulp to a strong base treatment. The mercerized pulp typically has a lower density than the starting pulp. It is noted that the mercerization process crimps the fiber, resulting in a product that has lower density and high compressibility. These properties are advantageous in mechanical sealing. Mercerization also reduces the overall crystallinity of the cellulosic pulp. Residual lignin and hemicellulose are dissolved by the alkali solution making the mercerized pulp more flexible and less stiff.

[0027] The present disclosure also advantageously provides a method for fabricating a home compostable beverage filter media including providing annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and providing mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35%by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and fabricating the home compostable beverage filter media via a wet-laid process. There can be a synergistic effect of using mercerized pulp with annual plant fibers. It has been found that mercerized pulp tends to reduce mechanical strength. The addition of annual plant fibers makes it possible to preserve sufficient strength and also opens up the structure of the filter media structure.

[0028] In example embodiments, the beverage filter media can achieve a biodegradation of at least 90% in domestic composting.

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

[0030] The inventive home compostable beverage filter media can have a Compression Index between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

[0031] As used herein, Compression Index is defined as the ratio between the quantity of mercerized pulp fibers to the basis weight of the beverage filter media multiplied by one hundred. The quantity of mercerized pulp is expressed % by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The basis weight is expressed in grams per square meter (gsm). For example, a sample containing 5 wt% of mercerized pulp and having a basis weight of 37 g / m2would have a Compression Index of 0. 14.

[0032] The beverage filter media of the present disclosure can have a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm. In some embodiments, the beverage filter media can have a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm, and preferably less than 330 pm (e.g., to avoid coffee or tea particles from leaking out (sifting out)). In certain embodiments, the beverage filter media can have a maximum pore size that is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm, and more preferably less than 160 pm.

[0033] The inventive home compostable beverage filter media can have a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm.

[0034] The beverage filter media can have a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, and more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

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

[0036] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media comprising natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably between 23 and 35%, and annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0037] The beverage filter media can be a wet-laid beverage filter media.

[0038] The softwood fibers can be present in a quantity between 0% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0039] In some embodiments, the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0040] The beverage filter media can have a dry tensile strength of 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m, and / or can have a wet tensile strength of 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m (e.g., to prevent that the beverage filter will not disintegrate during use).

[0041] In some embodiments, the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm. The thickness of the beverage filter media can be from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm, in certain embodiments.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIGS. 2A-2C, the beverage filter media 10 can be configured to be attached or sealed to a rim 18 of beverage capsule 12 by mechanical means (e.g., crimping or the like), the capsule 12 typically having a lid 14. In certain embodiments, the beverage capsule 12 can contain coffee 16, and the beverage capsule 12 can be used in a singleserve beverage machine. The air permeability of the beverage filter media 10 can be from about 300 to 850 L / m2 / s in some embodiments (e.g., for maintaining good flow of liquid for advantageous percolation time). Air permeability can be used as a predictor for liquid flow. With the filter media 10 of the present disclosure, when the air permeability is within this range, satisfactory liquid flow is observed.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIGS. 2A-2C, beverage capsule 12 includes a capsule body 13 having a rim 18, with coffee 16 or the like configured to be housed within capsule body 13, and with lid 14 and filter media 10 configured to be assembled together. In FIG. 1 and FIGS. 2A-2C, the A and B directions / arrows represent sealing forces applied to seal the capsule 12 together (e.g., with the beverage filter media 10 attached or sealed to rim 18 of beverage capsule 12, and with lid 14 attached or mounted with respect to filter media 10).

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

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

[0046] In certain embodiments, the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm. The thickness of the beverage filter media can be from about 30 pm to about 60 pm in some embodiments.

[0047] The beverage filter media can be configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material. The tea bag can contain tea or the like. The air permeability of the beverage filter media can be from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s in certain embodiments.

[0048] This disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples, which are non-limiting.EXAMPLESExample 1 - Beverage capsule:

[0049] Different samples were prepared by a wet-laying process and have a basis weight of 37 g / m2. The fiber mix also contained around 0.7 wt% of a wet strength agent (e.g., Kymene). The samples were further subjected to a 3 wt% size-press treatment using a CMC / wet strength agent mixture (9 / 1 ratio). Samples Cl and C2 contained varying amount of rayon but without mercerized pulp. Samples 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 and 1.5 included respectively 5, 10, 20, 25 and 35 wt% of mercerized pulp. In addition, samples 1.8 and 1.9 included 25 wt% of mercerized pulp and no annual plant fibers. Table 1 summarizes some example compositions that were tested.Table 1: Sample compositions:After drying, different physical properties of the samples were measured and are summarized in Table 2 below.Table 2: Physical properties:

[0050] In order to evaluate the sealing properties of the different samples, the samples were attached to a beverage capsule by a heat clamping method. The sealing quality was visually inspected and was scored as indicated on Table 2. The addition of mercerized pulp in the fiber mix improved sealing properties. This was surprising because samples 1.3 to 1.7 did not contain any synthetic thermoplastic fibers but the sealing obtained especially for samples 1.5 to 1.7 was satisfactory. To the best of present knowledge this is the first time an entirely cellulose based beverage filter media was attached to a beverage capsule without requiring additional adhesive.

[0051] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of mercerized pulp increases the bulkiness of the beverage filter media and can thus be more compressed.

[0052] It was also noticed that the addition of mercerized pulp improved the permeability of the beverage filter media. Samples 1.5 and 1.6 had TexTest permeability whichwas higher than the other samples. It was also noticed that the addition of mercerized pulp did not have significant adverse effect on mechanical properties (see tensile measurements of Table 2). However, increasing the amount of mercerized pulp beyond a certain threshold appeared to reduce the TexTest permeability and the pore structure seem to slightly collapse. MFP diameter for Sample 1.7 was lower than that of sample 1.6 which had a lower mercerized pulp content.

[0053] To preserve the mechanical properties of the filter media, the addition of annual plant fibers can be essential. Samples 1.8 and Sample 1.9 compositions are summarized in Table 3. Similarly, after drying, different physical properties of these samples were measured and are summarized in Table 4 below. The data shows that samples without annual plants can have poor mechanical properties. The TexTest permeability values also decreased without the annual plant fibers. Sample 1.8 containing Rayon had a better permeability, but the mechanical properties remained low. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that annual plant fibers maintain internal cohesion of the filter and prevent the filter media from collapsing.Table 3: Sample compositionsTable 4: Physical propertiesExample 2 - Tea bag applications:

[0054] Similarly as for the beverage capsule applications, different samples were prepared by a wet-laying process and have a basis weight of 13 g / m2. The fiber mix also contained around 0.7 wt% of a wet strength agent (e.g., Kymene). The samples were furthersubjected to a 3 wt% size-press treatment using a CMC / wet strength agent mixture (9 / 1 ratio).Samples 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5 contained respectively 5, 10, 15 and 25 wt% of mercerized pulp.Table 5: Sample compositions:

[0055] After drying, different physical properties of the samples were measured and are summarized in Table 6 below.Table 6: Physical properties:

[0056] In order to evaluate the sealing properties of the different samples, the samples were attached to its own self by crimping (see FIG. 3 - showing example tea bag filter media 100). The sealing quality was visually inspected and was scored as indicated in Table 6 above. The addition of mercerized pulp in the fiber mix improved sealing quality.

[0057] Here also, without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of mercerized pulp increases the bulkiness of the sample and can thus be more compressed. This in turn improves the quality of the seal.

[0058] Furthermore, the data showed that the addition of mercerized pulp increases the TextTest of the filter media and it is noted that this correlates with the infusion of the tea, indeedthe higher the TextTest value the better the tea infusion. Accordingly, the filter media 100 according to the present disclosure used as a tea bag 100 can improve the infusion of tea.

[0059] However, it was noticed that at this basis weight (e.g., around 13 g / m2), increasing the amount of mercerized pulp tends to reduce the dry tensile strength. Consequently, a good compromise between improved sealing quality and mechanical properties is for a mercerized pulp content of between 5-10 wt% at around 13 g / m2.Test Methods of the present disclosure:

[0060] Basis weight : (g / m2) ISO 536-2012.

[0061] Thickness: (pm) ISO 534:2005 (Instrument: Micrometer MI20).

[0062] Density: (cm3 / g) ISO 534:2011.

[0063] Pore size: (pm) Porolux 1000.

[0064] Tensile strength : (kN / m) ISO 1924-2 (15mm- 180mm between jaws - 25mm / min).

[0065] Crimp: specific tool designed for the present disclosure.

[0066] Tear: (mN) ISO 1974-2012(E) 4 plies -(Instrument: Lorentzen SE009).

[0067] Burst: (kPa) ISO 2758 (Instrument: Eclatometer EM50).

[0068] Air permeability: (L / m2 / s) ISO 9237:1995 (Instrument: Textest FX3300 / pressure used 200Pa).

[0069] This disclosure further encompasses the following aspects.

[0070] The present disclosure provides for a home compostable beverage filter media including mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight, and annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0071] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

[0072] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carriedout at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

[0073] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the mercerized pulp fibers has a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably between 23 and 35%. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

[0074] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0075] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

[0076] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm. The present disclosure alsoprovides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0077] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0078] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material. The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the tea bag contains tea.

[0079] The present disclosure also provides for a home compostable beverage filter media wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media including natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably between 23 and 35%, and annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is home compostable. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm.

[0080] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

[0081] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

[0082] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers have a curl index of at least 20% is a mercerized pulp. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

[0083] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

[0084] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably0.50 to 0.80 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

[0085] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

[0086] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

[0087] The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the tea bag contains tea. The present disclosure also provides for a beverage filter media wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s.

[0088] The present disclosure also provides for a method for fabricating a home compostable beverage filter media including providing annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in thebeverage filter media, and providing mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and fabricating the home compostable beverage filter media via a wet-laid process.

[0089] The present disclosure also provides for a method for fabricating a beverage filter media including providing natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably between 23 and 35%, and providing annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media, and fabricating the home compostable beverage filter media via a wet-laid process.

[0090] While particular embodiments have been described, alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents that are or may be presently unforeseen may arise to applicants or others skilled in the art. Accordingly, the appended claims as filed and as they may be amended are intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents.

[0091] All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other (e.g., ranges of “up to 25 wt.%, or, more specifically, 5 wt.% to 20 wt.%”, is inclusive of the endpoints and all intermediate values of the ranges of “5 wt.% to 25 wt.%,” etc.). “Combinations” is inclusive of blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, and the like. The terms “first,” “second,” and the like, do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. The terms “a” and “an” and “the” do not denote a limitation of quantity and are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. “Or” means “and / or” unless clearly stated otherwise. Reference throughout the specification to “some embodiments”, “an embodiment”, and so forth, means that a particular element described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the various embodiments. A “combination thereof’ is open and includes any combination comprising at least one of the listed components or properties optionally together with a like or equivalent component or property not listed.

[0092] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which this application belongs. All cited patents, patent applications, and other references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, if a term in the present application contradicts or conflictswith a term in the incorporated reference, the term from the present application takes precedence over the conflicting term from the incorporated reference.

[0093] Unless specified to the contrary herein, all test standards are the most recent standard in effect as of the filing date of this application, or, if priority is claimed, the filing date of the earliest priority application in which the test standard appears.

[0094] Although the beverage filter media, systems and methods of the present disclosure have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited to such exemplary embodiments and / or implementations. Rather, the beverage filter media, systems and methods of the present disclosure are susceptible to many implementations and applications, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art from the disclosure hereof. The present disclosure expressly encompasses such modifications, enhancements and / or variations of the disclosed embodiments. Since many changes could be made in the above construction and many widely different embodiments of this disclosure could be made without departing from the scope thereof, it is intended that all matter contained in the drawings and specification shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additional modifications, changes, and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A home compostable beverage filter media comprising: mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight; and annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

2. The home compostable beverage filter media of claim 1, wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm.

3. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm.

4. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

5. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

6. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm.

7. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers has a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably between 23 and 35%.

8. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven.

9. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

10. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

11. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

12. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine.

13. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 11 or 12, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

14. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

15. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

16. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

17. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

18. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm.

19. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 12 to 18, wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

20. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s.

21. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

22. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

23. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

24. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 or 23, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

25. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 to 24, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

26. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 to 25, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

27. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 to 26, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm.

28. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 to 27, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

29. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of 23 to 28, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

30. The home compostable beverage filter media of any one of Claims 1 to 10 or 22 to 29, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s.

31. A beverage filter media comprising: natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably between 23 and 35%; and annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

32. The beverage filter media of claim 31 , wherein the beverage filter media is home compostable.

33. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 or 32, wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm.

34. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm.

35. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

36. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

37. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm.

38. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 37, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers have a curl index of at least 20% is a mercerized pulp.

39. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 38, wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven.

40. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 39, wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

41. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 40, wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

42. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 41, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

43. The beverage filter media of claim 42, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine.

44. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 42 or 43, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

45. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 44, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

46. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 45, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

47. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 46, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

48. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 47, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

49. The beverage filter media of any one of claims 31 to 48, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm.

50. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 49, wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

51. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 50, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s.

52. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 51, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

53. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

54. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

55. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 or 54, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

56. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 to 55, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

57. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 to 56, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

58. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 to 57, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm.

59. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 to 58, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

60. The beverage filter media of any one of 53 to 59, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

61. The beverage filter media of any one of Claims 31 to 40 or 53 to 60, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s.

62. A method for fabricating a home compostable beverage filter media comprising: providing annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media; and providing mercerized pulp fibers in a quantity between 5% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media; and fabricating the home compostable beverage filter media via a wet-laid process.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm.

64. The method of claim 62 or 63, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm.

65. The method of any one of claims 62 to 64, wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

66. The method of any one of claims 62 to 65, wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

67. The method of any one of claims 62 to 66, wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm.

68. The method of any one of claims 62 to 67, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers has a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and more preferably between 23 and 35%.

69. The method of any one of claims 62 to 68, wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven.

70. The method of any one of claims 62 to 69, wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

71. The method of any one of claims 62 to 70, wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

72. The method of any one of claims 62 to 71, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

73. The method of any one of claims 62 to 72, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine.

74. The method of any one of Claims 72 or 73, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

75. The method of any one of claims 62 to 74, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

76. The method of any one of claims 62 to 75, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

77. The method of any one of claims 62 to 76, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

78. The method of any one of claims 62 to 77, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

79. The method of any one of claims 62 to 78, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm.

80. The method of any one of Claims 73 to 79, wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

81. The method of any one of claims 62 to 80, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s.

82. The method of any one of claims 62 to 81, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

83. The method of claims 62 to 71, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

84. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

85. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the mercerized pulp fibers are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

86. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83 to 85, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

87. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83 to 86, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m, preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

88. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83 to 87, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm.

89. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 88, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

90. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 89, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

91. The method of any one of Claims 62 to 71 or 83, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s.

92. A method for fabricating a beverage filter media comprising: providing natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, more preferably between 23 and 35%; and providing annual plant fibers in a quantity of at least 25%, preferably between 25% to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media; and fabricating the home compostable beverage filter media via a wet-laid process.

93. The method of claim 92, wherein the beverage filter media is home compostable.

94. The method of any one of claims 92 or 93, wherein the beverage filter media has a mean flow pore diameter in a range from 30 to 120 pm.

95. The method of any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size that is less than 350 pm and preferably less than 330 pm.

96. The method of any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein the beverage filter media has a density in a range from 0.13 to 0.40 g / cm3, preferably from 0.13 to 0.35 g / cm3, more preferably 0.15 to 0.30 g / cm3.

97. The method of any one of claims 92 to 96, wherein the beverage filter media meets the European standard EN 13432 as industrially compostable, and in addition meets the following requirements: (i) a biodegradation test carried out at ambient temperature between 20°C and 30°C, the tested material achieving a biodegradation of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 12 months or less; and (ii) a disintegration test carried out at ambient temperaturebetween 20°C and 30°C, the test material achieving a disintegration of at least 90% w / w dry weight within 6 months or less.

98. The method of any one of claims 92 to 97, wherein the beverage filter media has a smallest pore size in a range from 1 to 20 pm.

99. The method of any one of claims 92 to 98, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers have a curl index of at least 20% is a mercerized pulp.

100. The method of any one of claims 92 to 99, wherein the beverage filter media is a wet-laid nonwoven.

101. The method of any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the Compression Index is between 0.3 and 0.9, preferably between 0.35 and 0.85.

102. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101, wherein softwood fibers are present in a quantity between 0% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

103. The method of any one of claims 92 to 102, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed to a beverage capsule.

104. The method of claim 103, wherein the beverage capsule contains coffee, and the beverage capsule is used in a single-serve beverage machine.

105. The method of any one of Claims 103 or 104, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 20 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 40 gsm, preferably about 37 gsm.

106. The method of any one of claims 92 to 105, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 20% are present in a quantity between 15% to 35% by weight, preferably between 20% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

107. The method of any one of claims 92 to 106, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 1.0 to 3.5 kN / m, preferably 1.50 to 3.00 kN / m.

108. The method of any one of claims 92 to 107, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.4 to 0.9 kN / m, preferably 0.50 to 0.80 kN / m.

109. The method of any one of claims 92 to 108, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 110 pm to about 160 pm, preferably from about 120 pm to about 150 pm.

110. The method of any one of claims 92 to 109, wherein the beverage filter media has a maximum pore size is less than 200 pm, preferably less than 180 pm and more preferably less than 160 pm.

111. The method of any one of claims 92 to 110, wherein the beverage filter media is attached or sealed to a beverage capsule by mechanical means such as crimping.

112. The method of any one of claims 92 to 111, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 300 to 1000 L / m2 / s, preferably from about 600 to 900 L / m2 / s.

113. The method of any one of claims 92 to 112, wherein man-made cellulosic fibers, preferably rayon or lyocell, are present in a quantity between 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

114. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

115. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114, wherein the total basis weight of the beverage filter media is from about 9 grams per square meter (gsm) to about 17 gsm, preferably about 13 gsm.

116. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 or 115, wherein the natural cellulosic pulp fibers having a curl index of at least 23% are present in a quantity between 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of fibers in the beverage filter media.

117. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 to 116, wherein the beverage filter media has a dry tensile strength of 0.30 to 0.95 kN / m, preferably 0.40 to 0.90 kN / m.

118. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 to 117, wherein the beverage filter media has a wet tensile strength of 0.07 to 0.30 kN / m preferably 0.10 to 0.20 kN / m.

119. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 to 118, wherein the thickness of the beverage filter media is from about 30 pm to about 65 pm.

120. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 to 119, wherein the beverage filter media is configured to be attached or sealed together to form a tea bag, preferably free of an added heat sealable material.

121. The method of any one of 114 to 120, wherein the tea bag contains tea.

122. The method of any one of claims 92 to 101 or 114 to 121, wherein the air permeability of the beverage filter media is from about 1500 to 2500 L / m2 / s.

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