Laminated film material, process for its production and use thereof - Patents.com

Abstract

Provided herein is a laminated film with an active agent, such as a volatile antimicrobial agent, suitable for use as a food packaging material. Bags made from such laminated films and methods for manufacturing such laminated films are also provided herein. In one embodiment, the laminated film comprises a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin, a permeable film comprising the permeable resin, and a liquid active agent comprising a liquid volatile compound, wherein the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable, an interface is formed between the barrier film and the permeable film, and the liquid active agent is applied at the interface to match the surface energy of the resin at the interface and bond the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 006,323, filed April 7, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] (Field) FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to laminate films, and more particularly to laminate films with antimicrobial properties suitable for use as food packaging materials. [Background technology]

[0003] As consumers become increasingly aware of the benefits of healthy eating, the demand for fresh, high-quality, and nutritious food is increasing. However, preserving and maintaining the quality of fresh food products is a major concern for the food industry, as many fresh food items, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products, are perishable and have a limited shelf life. The relatively short shelf life of such perishable items often results in increased production and distribution costs, as well as an increased risk of foodborne infections. To overcome the challenges presented during the storage, transportation, and handling of perishable foods, it is desirable to have a functional packaging system that improves food quality and safety by reducing microbial growth.

[0004] Antimicrobial packaging is one such promising technology, which may involve integrating antimicrobial active agents into food packaging and subsequently delivering them over time to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms affecting food products, thereby increasing the shelf life of the food product. Several strategies have been developed for antimicrobial packaging: contact antimicrobial packaging (antimicrobial agents such as silver or triclosan are embedded in the inner layer of the packaging film, which contacts the food and prevents bacterial growth at the interface); vapor-releasing films (volatile components are embedded in the packaging film and released into the package after the food is loaded and sealed); coated films (solid or liquid antimicrobial agents are applied by coating methods to the surface of the film that will come into contact with the food); and microencapsulated active agents (coacervate components are applied to the surface of the packaging). However, known methods and devices for antimicrobial packaging are limited in their effectiveness in preventing food spoilage and may impair the flavor, color, odor, texture, and / or other properties of food items. In addition, the cost of producing such antimicrobial packaging often inhibits the widespread use of this technology.

[0005] Therefore, a need exists for improved packaging materials that provide effective antimicrobial protection for food products, and efficient methods for producing such materials. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Provided herein are laminated film materials with antimicrobial properties suitable for use as food packaging materials, and methods for making these film materials.

[0007] In some aspects, a laminate film is provided that includes a barrier film that includes a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin, a permeable film that includes a permeable resin, and a liquid activator that includes a liquid volatile compound. In some embodiments, the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable. An interface is formed by the barrier film and the permeable film. In some embodiments, the liquid activator is applied at the interface to match the surface energy with the resin at the interface and / or bond the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator is applied at the interface to at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator is applied at the interface to match the surface energy with the resin at the interface and bond the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface.

[0008] In another aspect, a laminated film bag is provided, comprising first and second outer barrier films, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; first and second inner permeable films, each independently comprising a permeable resin; and a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound. In some embodiments, the barrier films and the permeable films are thermoplastic and weldable. An interface is formed between the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface is formed between the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film. In some embodiments, the liquid activator is applied at each interface to match the surface energy with the resin at each interface and / or at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface. In some embodiments, the liquid activator is applied at each interface to at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface. In some embodiments, the liquid activator is applied at each interface to match the surface energy with the resin at each interface and at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface. In some embodiments, the sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all of the permeable and barrier films, and the top of the bag has a temporary seal.

[0009] In one aspect, a wicketed bag is provided, the wicketed bag comprising a plurality of any laminated film bags described herein, the bags being stacked and attached together to form a stack.

[0010] In yet another aspect, a laminated film bag is provided containing a food product comprising first and second outer barrier films, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; first and second inner permeable films, each independently comprising a permeable resin; and a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound. In some embodiments, the sides and bottom of the bag are heat-sealed through all of the permeable and barrier films. In some embodiments, the food product is positioned within a space between the first and second inner permeable films. In some embodiments, the space creates a low vapor concentration partial pressure that draws the liquid activator into the space containing the food product. In some variations of the foregoing, the barrier films and permeable films are thermoplastic and weldable. An interface is formed between the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface is formed between the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film. In some variations, when the liquid activator is present at the interface, it matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface and / or at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface. In some variations, when the liquid activator is present at the interface, it at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface. In some variations, when the liquid activator is present at the interface, it matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface and at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator is in vapor form when present in the space containing the food product.

[0011] In yet another aspect, a method for manufacturing a plurality of laminate film bags is provided, the method including: a) providing a roll of wall film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; b) providing a roll of permeable film comprising the permeable resin; c) directing the barrier film and the permeable film toward a lamination nip; d) dispensing a liquid activator onto a surface of the barrier film prior to pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip; e) pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip, thereby applying the liquid activator between the barrier film and the permeable film and producing a laminate film; f) heat-sealing edges of the laminate film to minimize loss of the liquid activator; g) folding the heat-sealed film using a V-folder, wherein the permeable film becomes an adjacent inner permeable layer and the barrier film becomes an outer barrier layer; and h) cut-sealing the folded film to produce a plurality of laminate film bags.

[0012] In another aspect, a laminated film bag produced by any of the manufacturing methods described herein is provided.

[0013] The laminated film bags provided herein can be used as packaging for a variety of products, including food products. In some variations, the food products are perishable. Suitable food products can include, for example, bread. The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) A laminated film, the film comprising: a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a transparent film having a transparent resin; a liquid activator comprising a liquid volatile compound; Equipped with the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the barrier film and the permeable film; The liquid activator is applied at the interface and bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface. (Item 2) The barrier resin is (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof; or (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above Item 2. The film according to item 1, comprising: (Item 3) 3. The film of claim 1 or 2, wherein the barrier film further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin. (Item 4) Item 4. The film of item 3, wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer having a high surface energy with respect to the transparent resin. (Item 5) The adhesive resin is (i) a maleic anhydride polymer, or (ii) ethylene-grafted maleic anhydride, or anhydride-modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof; or (iii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene-grafted maleic anhydride (AMP), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above 5. The film according to item 3 or 4, comprising: (Item 6) 6. The film of any one of items 1-5, wherein the transparent resin comprises a thermoplastic resin. (Item 7) 7. The film of any one of items 1-6, wherein the transparent resin comprises a polyolefin. (Item 8) 8. The film of claim 7, wherein the polyolefin allows diffusion of the liquid active agent. (Item 9) The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof; 7. The film according to any one of items 1 to 6, comprising: (Item 10) 10. The film of any one of items 1-9, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antimicrobial agent. (Item 11) The liquid activator is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. 11. The film of any one of items 1-10, comprising: (Item 12) 12. The film of any one of items 1-11, wherein the liquid activator matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface. (Item 13) A laminated film bag, the bag comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transparent film and a second inner transparent film, each independently comprising a transparent resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film; the liquid activator is applied at each interface to at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface; The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films; The top of the bag has a temporary seal. (Item 14) Item 14. The bag according to item 13, wherein the top of the bag has a zipper seal. (Item 15) A bag wicket, the bag wicket comprising a plurality of the laminated film bags according to item 13 or 14; The bags are stacked and attached together to form a bundle, a wicket of bags. (Item 16) 1. A laminated film bag containing a food product, said bag comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transmission film and a second inner transmission film, each independently comprising a transmission resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films; the food product is positioned within a space between the first inner permeable film and the second inner permeable film; the space creates a low vapor concentration partial pressure that draws the liquid activator into the space containing the food product; the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film; the liquid activator, when present at the interface, at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface; A bag wherein the liquid activator is in vapor form when present within the space containing the food product. (Item 17) Item 17. The bag according to item 16, wherein the food product is perishable. (Item 18) 18. The pouch of item 16 or 17, wherein the food product is a loaf of bread. (Item 19) The barrier resin is (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof, or (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above 19. The bag according to any one of items 13-18, comprising: (Item 20) 20. The bag of any one of claims 13-19, wherein the barrier film further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin. (Item 21) Item 21. The bag of item 20, wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer having a high surface energy relative to the transparent resin. (Item 22) The adhesive resin is (i) a maleic anhydride polymer, or (ii) ethylene-grafted maleic anhydride, or anhydride-modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof; or (iii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene-grafted maleic anhydride (AMP), or any combination thereof; Or the bag according to item 20 or 21, comprising any combination of the above. (Item 23) 23. The bag of any one of claims 13-22, wherein the permeable resin comprises a thermoplastic resin. (Item 24) 23. The bag of any one of claims 13-22, wherein the permeable resin comprises a polyolefin. (Item 25) Item 25. The bag of item 24, wherein the polyolefin allows for the diffusion of the liquid active agent. (Item 26) The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof; 23. The bag according to any one of items 13-22, comprising: (Item 27) 27. The bag of any one of items 13-26, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antimicrobial agent. (Item 28) The liquid activator is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. 27. The bag according to any one of items 13-26, comprising: (Item 29) 29. The bag of any one of items 13-28, wherein the liquid activator, when present at an interface, matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface. (Item 30) 1. A method for manufacturing a plurality of laminated film bags, the method comprising: a) providing a roll of wall film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; b) providing a roll of transparent film comprising a transparent resin; c) directing the barrier film and the permeable film toward a lamination nip; d) dispensing a liquid activator onto a surface of the barrier film prior to pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip; the surface of the barrier film is adjacent to the permeable film, and the liquid activator comprises a volatile compound; e) pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip, thereby applying the liquid activator between the barrier film and the permeable film to produce a laminated film; an interface formed by the barrier film and the permeable film, at least a portion of the barrier film being thermoplastically welded to the permeable film at the interface, and the liquid activator at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface; f) heat sealing the edges of the laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent; g) folding the heat-sealed film using a V-folder, so that the permeable film becomes an adjacent inner permeable layer and the barrier film becomes an outer barrier layer; h) cutting and sealing the folded film to produce the plurality of laminated film bags; A method comprising: (Item 31) Item 31. The method of item 30, wherein the liquid activator matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface. (Item 32) Item 32. A laminated film bag produced by the method according to item 30 or 31. (Item 33) 33. The laminated film bag according to any one of items 13-29 and 32 for use as food product packaging. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] The present application can be best understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like parts may be referenced by like numerals, and in which:

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary laminated film with a liquid active agent.

[0016] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary laminated film bag containing a food product.

[0017] [Figure 3] 3, 4A, and 4B provide an overview of an exemplary process for manufacturing a laminated film bag. [Figure 4] 3, 4A, and 4B provide an overview of an exemplary process for manufacturing a laminated film bag.

[0018] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 depicts a roll of permeable and barrier film in the manufacture of a laminated film bag.

[0019] [Figure 6A] 6A and 6B depict dispensing a liquid active agent between the film layers. [Figure 6B]6A and 6B depict dispensing a liquid active agent between the film layers.

[0020] [Figure 7A] 7A, 7B, and 7C depict sealing and cutting the edges of the formed laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent within the film layers. [Figure 7B] 7A, 7B, and 7C depict sealing and cutting the edges of the formed laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent within the film layers. [Figure 7C] 7A, 7B, and 7C depict sealing and cutting the edges of the formed laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent within the film layers.

[0021] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 depicts folding a sealed laminate film using a V-folder.

[0022] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 depicts cutting and sealing a folded laminate film into a pouch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The following description sets forth example configurations, systems, methods, parameters, and the like, however, it should be recognized that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure, but is instead provided as a description of example embodiments.

[0024] Provided herein is a laminated film and a laminated bag with antibacterial properties suitable for use as food packaging material.Generally, a laminate is a combination of two different layers, each layer providing a distinct function, so that they form a high-performance material together.Provided herein is a bag with an outer member that provides barrier properties to liquid active agents.

[0025] In some aspects, laminated films are provided that include a liquid active agent between at least two films. In some variations, a barrier film is laminated with a permeable layer, and an interface is formed between the barrier film and the permeable film. In some variations, the liquid active agent is present at the interface intermediate the barrier and permeable films.

[0026] In one aspect, a laminate film is provided that includes: (i) a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; (ii) a permeable film comprising the permeable resin; and (iii) a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound.

[0027] In another aspect, a bag or bags produced from such laminated film are provided. In some embodiments, the laminated film bag includes (i) first and second outer barrier films, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; (ii) first and second inner permeable films, each independently comprising a permeable resin; and (iii) a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound. The sides and bottom of the bag are heat-sealed through all of the permeable and barrier films. In some variations, the top of the bag has a temporary seal.

[0028] In some embodiments of the aforementioned films and bags, the liquid activator is applied at the interface between the barrier film and the permeable film. The liquid activator bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface without the need for an adhesive or film at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface with weak bonding forces.

[0029] Due to the nature of the pouch formation, it is not necessary to have the laminated layers adhesively bonded to one another. In some embodiments, the laminated layers are held together by light to moderate adhesion, achieved by using the wetting properties of a liquid at the interface of the two film layers. In some variations, the liquid active agent within the film and pouch described herein may bond the barrier and permeable films, at least in part, primarily through non-covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding, dispersion forces, or van der Waals forces. Furthermore, in some variations, the difference between atmospheric pressure and the vapor pressure of the liquid active agent at least in part affects its ability to bond the barrier and permeable films. In some variations, the barrier film and permeable film are at least partially held together, while at least a portion of the liquid active agent at the interface exists in a liquid phase.

[0030] Without being bound by theory, the type of adhesive used is based on the dispersive and diffusive properties of the described system. The system utilizes the interface formed by each of the two layers, which will be combined with a selected liquid activator. The liquid activator is applied at the interface (e.g., in a uniform coating). In some embodiments, the liquid activator has properties that match the surface energy of the materials making up the interface between the two layers. This is not a strong bond, as would be found with a pressure-sensitive adhesive or epoxy adhesive. This is because the liquid activator does not have a strong cohesive strength. Cohesive strength is generally understood as the strength of a material to prevent itself from splitting apart. The laminated films and bags provided herein require very little adhesion for the final product to function well, as the edges of the product are sealed using thermoplastic welding when the pouch is formed. These seals combine each of the two or more layers of polymer film at specific lines along the edges of the pouch.

[0031] In some embodiments, thermoplastic welding uses pressure and heat to achieve a homogeneous bond between two or more layers of polymer film. As pressure is applied over the layers of film to achieve welding, the liquid active agent (e.g., in liquid form) is squeezed out from the interface by the applied pressure. This results in intimate contact of the interfaces, which in turn results in intermingling of the interfacial polymer chains and thus adhesion (welding). In some variations, there are four layers of film, two of which contain a liquid active agent within their interfaces, and the two layers are stacked together at the point where the side seals of the bag are made, creating four layers with liquid.

[0032] The construction of the laminate film and bags produced from such laminate film, and methods of manufacturing such bags, are described in further detail below.

[0033] (Laminated film and film bags) In some embodiments, a laminate film is provided that includes a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin, a permeable film comprising a permeable resin, and a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound. In some variations, the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastically weldable. In some variations, the liquid activator is applied at the interface formed by the barrier film and the permeable film. In some variations, the liquid activator matches the surface energy of the resin at the interface and / or bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface. In some variations, the liquid activator matches the surface energy of the resin at the interface and bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, an exemplary laminate film is depicted. The laminate film 100 is comprised of a barrier film 102 and a permeable film 104. The barrier film 102 is comprised of a permeable resin 106 (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE) and an adhesive resin 108 (e.g., anhydrous Marlene The barrier film 102 includes a barrier resin 110 (e.g., EVOH, PVDC). The permeable film 104 includes a permeable resin (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE). A liquid activator 112 (e.g., VOC) is applied at the interface between the barrier film 102 and the permeable film 104.

[0035] 1 lists some exemplary materials that can be used for different portions of the laminate film. For example, as depicted in FIG. 1, the transparent resin 106 can include, for example, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), and / or very low density polyethylene (VLDPE). The adhesive resin 108 can include, for example, anhydrous Marlene The barrier resin 110 may include, for example, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) and / or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC). However, it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, other materials described herein may be suitable for use as resins in the barrier and permeation layers.

[0036] Barrier films generally have the ability to restrict the passage of gases, vapors, and organic liquids. As depicted in Figure 1, an exemplary laminate film 100 has a barrier resin 110 encapsulated by a permeable resin 106. Additionally, an adhesive resin 108 bonds the permeable resin and the barrier resin.

[0037] Suitable permeable resins are typically high-permeability materials, while suitable barrier resins are typically low-permeability materials. As used herein, in some variations, the term "permeability" refers to the amount of gas or vapor that can pass through a specific area of a material over a specified period of time. Examples of gases or vapors include O, N, helium, moisture, organic vapors, polar vapors, and non-polar vapors. In other variations, the term "permeability" refers to the amount of liquid that can pass through a specific area of a material over a specified period of time. The permeability is different for each gas, vapor, or liquid, which can be tested using different sensors. For purposes of this disclosure, "moisture vapor transmission rate" (MVTR) or "oxygen transmission rate" (OTR) can be used as a proxy for the permeability of an active ingredient through a material. As used herein, the term "water vapor transmission rate" (MVTR) or "water vapor transmission rate" (WVTR) refers to the rate at which water vapor will permeate through a material at defined conditions of temperature and relative humidity, which may be determined according to a test procedure standardized by INDA (Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry) (No. IST-70.4-99), which is known to those skilled in the art and is incorporated herein by reference. MVTR or WVTR is typically expressed in g / m 2 / day or g / in 2 As used herein, the term "oxygen transmission rate" (OTR) refers to the rate at which oxygen gas permeates through a material at defined conditions of temperature and relative humidity. OTR is typically measured in cc / m 2 / day or cc / in 2 The vapor transmission rate is measured in units of / day. Any suitable technique known in the art for determining vapor transmission rate can be employed. For example, a pouch of a transmission layer is made with a predetermined amount of liquid active agent, and the pouch is then weighed over time to determine the vaporized liquid transmission.

[0038] In some embodiments, the transparent resin has a viscosity of 20 g / m at about room temperature. 2 / day or more MVTR and / or 5,000cc / m at approximately room temperature 2 / day or greater. In some embodiments, the permeable resin includes unbranched or short-branched polyethylene, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), very low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, mineral-filled (e.g., calcium carbonate, talc) polymers intended for the manufacture of films, or polypropylene intended for porous films (e.g., containing a beta-nucleating agent). Any suitable combination of the permeable resins described herein may also be used.

[0039] In some embodiments, the barrier resin is 1 g / m 2 / day or less MVTR, and / or 100cc / m 2 / day or less, and preferably 10 cc / m 2

[0013] The barrier resins include materials with an OTR lower than 1 / day. In some variations, the barrier resin includes polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), or a polymer with a high aspect ratio clay. In other variations, the barrier resin includes nylon and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Any suitable combination of the barrier resins described herein may also be used.

[0040] In some variations, the adhesive resin is anhydrous Marlene In one variation, the adhesive resin comprises an ethylene-grafted anhydride polymer. Marlene In yet another variation, the adhesive resin includes ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), and ethylene grafted anhydride. Marlene Any suitable combination of adhesive resins described herein may also be used.

[0041] The type of adhesive resin selected may depend on the barrier resin used. For example, in one variation, an ethylene-grafted anhydride Marlene Acid is used in adhesive resins for ethylene vinyl alcohol barrier resins. In another variation, ethylene vinyl acetate and / or ethylene methyl acrylate can be used in adhesive resins for polyvinylidene chloride barrier resins. In another variation, ethylene acrylic acid can be used in adhesive resins for PET barrier resins. In yet another variation, ethylene grafted anhydride Marlene Acids may be used in adhesive resins for ethylene vinyl alcohol barrier resins.

[0042] Referring again to FIG. 1 , the liquid active agent 112 may be a volatile organic compound (VOC). In some variations, the liquid active agent includes a volatile agent. In some variations, the liquid active agent includes an antimicrobial agent. Suitable antimicrobial agents may include, for example, ethyl pyruvate, 1-butanol, 3-methyl-, acetate, diallyl thiosulfinate, cinnamaldehyde, citral, thymol, menthol, eugenol, and / or carvacrol. Other active agents may include insecticides, miticides, fungicides, plant growth regulators, and / or insect behavior control agents. Any suitable combination of the liquid active agents described herein may also be used.

[0043] 1, the liquid activator 112 is distributed at the interface between the barrier film and the permeable film. In some variations, the liquid activator may be applied in a uniform coating at the interface. In other variations, the liquid activator is distributed evenly at the interface. However, in other variations, the liquid may not be distributed evenly at the interface. There may be some areas at the interface that have the liquid activator and other areas that do not have the liquid activator.

[0044] The distribution of the liquid surfactant within the laminate film is determined by the concentration (e.g., g / m) of the liquid surfactant at two points in the material along the interface. 2In some variations, uniform distribution of the liquid activator refers to a difference in concentration of the liquid activator at two points along the interface of the material of less than 0.1%, less than 0.2%, less than 0.3%, less than 0.4%, less than 0.5%, less than 0.6%, less than 0.7%, less than 0.8%, less than 0.9%, less than 1%, less than 2%, less than 3%, less than 4%, less than 5%, less than 6%, less than 7%, less than 8%, less than 9%, or less than 10%.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 2 , an exemplary laminated film bag 200 contains a food product. The food product depicted in FIG. 2 is a loaf of bread, but it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the laminated film bag may contain other food products or other perishable goods or materials. The laminated film bag 200 includes two sides that enclose the food product, each side comprising an inner permeable film 202 and an outer barrier film 204, with a liquid activator 206 applied at the interface of the two films. As used herein, the term “interior” refers to the direction in which the film is used to enclose or contain an item. As used herein, the term “exterior” refers to the direction away from the direction in which the laminated film is used to enclose or contain an item.

[0046] There are at least three parameters that determine the rate of liquid active agent release from the film. (1) The diffusion coefficient of the liquid surfactant through the polymer film (generally related to the chain length, density of the polymer, and average diameter of the volatile compounds) (2) The sorption coefficient of the liquid surfactant through the polymer film (generally related to the solubility of the liquid in the polymer on the inlet side and desorption on the outlet side). (3) System temperature

[0047] The liquid active agent migrates from the interface between the barrier film and the permeable film into the polymer matrix of the permeable film at a rate governed by the sorption parameters. The diffusion coefficient governs the migration rate of the liquid active agent molecules through the polymer matrix of the permeable film. The rate is based on the local concentration difference between the inlet side and the outlet side of the polymer matrix. When the outlet side has a lower concentration of vapor (liquid active agent) than the inlet side, the vapor will migrate in the direction of the outlet.

[0048] The air to the outlet of the polymer matrix is either saturated with vapor or not. When the air is saturated, the vapor concentration along the thickness of the polymer matrix (permeable film) is the same (equivalent) and it has no gradient. When there is no gradient, there is no net movement. When the vapor concentration at the outlet of the polymer matrix accumulates to a point of saturation, the net flow of the liquid active agent through the polymer matrix stops.

[0049] If the vapor concentration at the outlet is not saturated, there will be a net migration of vapor through the polymer matrix at a rate governed by permeability. This net migration will continue indefinitely until the outlet concentration increases to the saturation point for the particular vapor being transferred, or until the concentration at the inlet becomes lower than the concentration at the outlet.

[0050] When multiple activator liquids are included in a mixture, each volatile liquid will have its own set of factors such as diffusion coefficient and sorption and will provide a partial concentration or pressure at the exit point.

[0051] The volatile liquid active agent remains trapped within the interface between the barrier film and the permeable film until the bag is opened and the vapor pressure (concentration) drops at the interface of the two opposing permeable layers. The liquid active agent begins to undergo a net migration through the permeable film until the two permeable film layers are again in contact, the vapor pressure of the liquid active agent in the vicinity of the permeable layers is saturated, or the liquid active agent is completely expelled from the barrier-permeable interface.

[0052] (Manufacturing method) In some aspects, methods for manufacturing the laminated films and film bags described herein are also provided herein. In some embodiments, manufacturing the laminated film bag includes printing a barrier film, wet laminating a permeable film, machine-direction welding the laminated film edges, machine-direction folding, and transforming the folded film into a bag. In some variations, the step of transforming the bag includes heat-sealing, cutting, optionally stacking, and / or wicket-forming.

[0053] In one aspect, a method for manufacturing a plurality of laminated film bags is provided and includes the following steps. a) Providing rolls of wall film b) Providing rolls of transparent film c) directing the barrier film and the permeable film toward the lamination nip; d) dispensing a liquid activator onto the surface of the barrier film prior to pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip. e) pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through a lamination nip to produce a laminated film. f) Heat sealing the edges of the laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid activator. g) using a V-folder to fold the heat-sealed film so that the permeable film becomes the adjacent inner permeable layer and the barrier film becomes the outer barrier layer; h) Cutting and sealing the folded film to produce multiple laminated film bags.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 3, an overview of an exemplary process 300 for manufacturing a laminate film bag is provided. In step 1), a permeable film 302 and a barrier film 304 are provided. In step 2), the permeable and barrier films are combined with a liquid activator 306 to produce a laminate film. The liquid activator bonds the permeable film and the barrier film at least partially at their interface. In step 3), the edges of the laminate film are sealed or welded together, which captures the liquid activator between the permeable film and the barrier film. In step 4), the sealed laminate film is folded. Finally, in step 5), the folded laminate film is cut to form a laminate film bag.

[0055] Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, an exemplary system 400 for manufacturing laminated film bags is provided. A permeable film roll 402 and a barrier film roll 404 are provided on separate rolls. A liquid nozzle 406 is positioned to dispense a liquid activator onto the surface of the permeable film before the permeable film and barrier film are pulled through a lamination nip to produce the laminated film. While a liquid nozzle is depicted in Figure 4B, it should be understood that other suitable liquid dispensers may be used within the system. Once the laminated film is formed, an edge sealer 408 is positioned to seal or weld the side edges of the laminated film, which captures the liquid activator between the permeable film and the barrier film. A folder 410 is then positioned downstream of the edge sealer to fold, seal, weld, and cut the folded laminated film to produce a laminated film bag with an inner permeable film and an outer barrier film.

[0056] Figures 5-9 provide further details about the manufacturing process.

[0057] 5 depicts an exemplary roll of a permeable film 502 and a barrier film 504. The permeable film 502 includes a permeable resin (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE). The barrier film 504 includes a permeable resin 506 (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE) and an adhesive resin 508 (e.g., anhydrous Marlene acid) and a barrier resin 510 (e.g., EVOH, PVDC).

[0058] 6A and 6B depict the wet lamination of a permeable film with a barrier film to produce a laminated film with a liquid active agent dispersed at the interface of the two films. Referring to FIG. 6B, permeable film 602 comprises a permeable resin (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE). Barrier film 604 comprises a permeable resin 606 (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE) and an adhesive resin 608 (e.g., anhydrous Marlene The barrier film 604 includes a barrier resin 610 (e.g., EVOH, PVDC) and a liquid activator 612 (e.g., VOC) that is dispensed by a liquid activator dispenser 614 for application at the interface between the barrier film 604 and the permeable film 602.

[0059] 6A and 6B, a permeable film 602 descends vertically from a top roll. A barrier film 604 unrolls horizontally from a bottom roll and enters the roller. A liquid activator (e.g., ethyl pyruvate) is applied to the permeable film 602 just before both films 602 and 604 meet at the roller to encapsulate the liquid activator. Referring to FIG. 6A, a bracket 618 holds a syringe tube 616 (e.g., a stainless steel tube) and allows the syringe tube 616 to be positioned tangentially to the vertical permeable film 602. In some embodiments, the syringe tube 616 has multiple holes 620 (four representative holes are depicted in the figure) for dispensing or injecting the liquid activator. In some embodiments, the syringe tube is made of stainless steel and has 308 laser-drilled holes, 0.008 inches in diameter, every 0.13 inches on 40-inch centers of a 72-inch tube. In some embodiments, 0.008 inch diameter holes in the injection tube are spaced 0.13 inches apart along the length of the syringe tube that dispenses the liquid activator. Representative lines of liquid activator 622 can be seen between the films. In some embodiments, if the film is less than 40 inches wide, a heat shrink sleeve 624 (e.g., a black heat shrink sleeve) is placed over the syringe tube to block some of the holes.

[0060] 7A, 7B, and 7C depict the sealing and cutting of a laminated thermoplastic film 700 consisting of a permeable film 702 and a barrier film 704. The permeable film 702 comprises a permeable resin (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE). The barrier film 704 comprises a permeable resin 706 (e.g., LLDPE, LDPE, VLDPE) and an adhesive resin 708 (e.g., anhydrous Marlene7A and 7C depict a sealing process in which the thermoplastic film layers are melted together during the sealing process, which creates a weld and secures the liquid activator within the film layers. This occurs in the process direction, also known as the "machine direction." Referring to FIG. 7A, 714 refers to a heated steel or aluminum rod that contacts the surface of the thermoplastic film. FIG. 7B depicts a cutting process in which two thermoplastic films are melted together and cut across the layers of the film. This occurs in the transverse direction, also known as the "cross-machine direction." Referring to FIG. 7B, sealing bar 716 is a heated steel or aluminum rod that contacts the surface of the thermoplastic film with an integrated cutter blade, which cuts the edge along area 718, the side seal and cut area. 720 shows a close-up of the sealing bar, which uses pressure to squeeze the liquid activator out of the welded area. As depicted in FIG. 7B, in some variations, the thermoplastic PE layers are melted together during the sealing process, creating a weld and securing the liquid activator within the film layers. This occurs in the transverse direction, also known as the cross-machine direction. 722 points to an exemplary embodiment of a cut and sealed bag. FIG. 7C depicts a view of the seal in process direction 724 (also known as the machine direction or material flow direction), showing two edge seals 726, one on each side of the web as close to the edge as possible to enclose the liquid activator.

[0061] Figure 8 depicts folding a laminate film using a V-folder, where 802 refers to the process direction, 804 refers to the permeate side of the structure, and 806 refers to the barrier side of the structure.

[0062]

[0013] Figure 9 depicts cutting and sealing laminated film folded into a bag. Multiple bags are stacked and tied together to form a bag wicket. Referring to Figure 9, 902 refers to the process direction, 904 refers to the permeate side of the structure, 906 refers to the barrier side of the structure, 908 refers to the bag machine, 910 refers to the side seal and cut, and 912 refers to the stacker / wicketer.

[0063] (Use of laminated film and film bags) The laminated films and film bags described herein can be used as packaging materials for any suitable product. In some embodiments, the laminated films and film bags are used to package perishable products such as food, feed, or agricultural products. Examples of food products include cheese, cream cheese, shredded cheese, cottage cheese, processed cheese, sour cream, dry-fermented meat products, wine, beer, yogurt, juice, and other beverages, salad dressings, cottage cheese dressings, dips, bakery products (e.g., bread) and bakery fillings, sugar syrups and frostings, spreads, pizza toppings, confectionery and confectionery fillings, olives, olive brine, olive oil, juice, tomato puree and paste, seasonings, and fruit pulp and similar food products. Examples of feed products include pet food, broiler feed, etc. Examples of agricultural products include grains, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and ornamental plants. When used as an agricultural film, the film may contain a pesticide as an active agent. In certain embodiments, the laminated films and film pouches are used to package organs or tissues.

[0064] Enumerated Embodiments The following enumerated embodiments represent representative of some aspects of the present invention. (Embodiment 1) A laminated film, comprising: a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a transparent film having a transparent resin; a liquid activator comprising a liquid volatile compound; Equipped with The barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; the interface is formed by a barrier film and a permeable film; a liquid activator is applied at the interface to match the surface energy with the resin at the interface and bond the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface; Laminated film. (Embodiment 2) The barrier resin is (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof; or (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; or any combination of the foregoing; 10. The film of claim 1, comprising: (Embodiment 3) The film of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the barrier film further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin. (Embodiment 4) The film of embodiment 3, wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer with a high surface energy relative to the transparent resin. (Embodiment 5) The adhesive resin is (i)Anhydrous Marlene acid polymers, or (ii) Ethylene-grafted anhydride Marlene Acid or anhydride modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof, or (iii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), Ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene grafted anhydride Marlene acid (AMP), or any combination thereof, Or any combination of the above 5. The film of claim 3 or 4, comprising: (Embodiment 6) The film of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the transparent resin comprises a thermoplastic resin. (Embodiment 7) The film of any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the transparent resin comprises a polyolefin. (Embodiment 8) A film as described in embodiment 7, wherein the polyolefin allows for the diffusion of a liquid active agent. (Embodiment 9) The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) The film of any one of embodiments 1-6, comprising low density polyethylene (LDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof. (Embodiment 10) A film described in any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antimicrobial agent. (Embodiment 11) The liquid activator is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. 11. The film of any one of embodiments 1-10, comprising: (Embodiment 12) A laminated film bag, comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transparent film and a second inner transparent film, each independently comprising a transparent resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with The barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by a first outer barrier film and a first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by a second outer barrier film and a second inner permeable film; a liquid activator is applied at each interface to match the surface energy of the resin at each interface and at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface; The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films. The top of the bag has a temporary seal. (Embodiment 13) A bag as described in embodiment 12, wherein the top of the bag has a zipper seal. (Embodiment 14) A bag wicket, the bag wicket comprising a plurality of laminated film bags according to embodiment 12 or 13; The bags are stacked and attached together to form a bundle, a wicket of bags. (Embodiment 15) A laminated film bag containing a food product, the bag comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transmission film and a second inner transmission film, each independently comprising a transmission resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films. a food product positioned within the space between the first inner permeable film and the second inner permeable film; the space creates a low vapor concentration partial pressure that draws the liquid activator into the space containing the food product; The barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by a first outer barrier film and a first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by a second outer barrier film and a second inner permeable film; the liquid activator, when present at the interface, matches the surface energy with the resin at the interface and at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface; The liquid activator is in vapor form when present in the space containing the food product, bag. (Embodiment 16) The bag described in embodiment 15, wherein the food product is perishable. (Embodiment 17) The bag of embodiment 15 or 16, wherein the food product is a loaf of bread. (Embodiment 18) The barrier resin is selected from the group consisting of: (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof; (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above 18. A bag according to any one of embodiments 12-17, comprising: (Embodiment 19) A bag described in any one of embodiments 12-18, wherein the barrier film further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin. (Embodiment 20) The bag described in embodiment 19, wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer having a high surface energy relative to the transparent resin. (Embodiment 21) The adhesive resin is (i)Anhydrous Marlene acid polymers, or (ii) Ethylene-grafted anhydride Marlene Acid or anhydride modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof, or (iii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene-grafted anhydride Marlene acid (AMP), or any combination thereof, Or the bag of embodiment 19 or 20, comprising any combination of the foregoing. (Embodiment 22) A bag described in any one of embodiments 12-21, wherein the transparent resin comprises a thermoplastic resin. (Embodiment 23) A bag described in any one of embodiments 12-22, wherein the permeable resin comprises a polyolefin. (Embodiment 24) A bag described in embodiment 23, wherein the polyolefin allows for the diffusion of a liquid active agent. (Embodiment 25) The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) low-density polyethylene (LDPE), very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof; 23. The bag of any one of embodiments 12-22, comprising: (Embodiment 26) A bag described in any one of embodiments 12-25, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antibacterial agent. (Embodiment 27) The liquid surfactant is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. 27. The bag of any one of embodiments 12-26, comprising: (Embodiment 28) A method for manufacturing a plurality of laminated film bags, the method comprising: a) providing a roll of wall film comprising a barrier resin encased in a transparent resin; and b) providing a roll of transparent film comprising the transparent resin. c) directing the barrier film and the permeable film toward the lamination nip; d) dispensing a liquid activator onto a surface of the barrier film prior to pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip, the surface of the barrier film being adjacent to the permeable film, the liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; e) pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through a lamination nip, thereby applying a liquid activator between the barrier film and the permeable film to produce a laminated film, wherein an interface is formed by the barrier film and the permeable film, at least a portion of the barrier film is thermoplastically welded to the permeable film at the interface, and the liquid activator matches surface energy with the resin at the interface to bond the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface; f) heat sealing the edges of the laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent; g) folding the heat-sealed film using a V-folder so that the permeable film becomes the adjacent inner permeable layer and the barrier film becomes the outer barrier layer; h) cutting and sealing the folded film to produce a plurality of laminated film bags. (Embodiment 29) A laminated film bag produced by the method according to embodiment 28. (Embodiment 30) A laminated film bag according to any one of embodiments 12-27 and 29 for use as food product packaging.

[0065] (Example) The subject matter of the present disclosure will be better understood by reference to the following examples, which are provided as illustrative of the invention and not by way of limitation.

[0066] (Example 1: Laminated film bag) This example describes the manufacture of a laminated film bag suitable for use as food packaging.

[0067] Rolls of packaging film were obtained. One film roll was an LLDPE monolayer film (0.918 g / cc density resin, 1.0 mil (25.4 μm, i.e., 1 / 1000 of an inch) thick and 40 inches wide) for use as a permeable layer. The other roll was a five-layer (LLDPE / adhesive / EVOH / adhesive / LLDPE) barrier film, 1.0 mil thick and 40 inches wide. The adhesive was an anhydrous resin-based adhesive. Marlene Ethyl pyruvate was obtained at a purity level of 97%.

[0068] A double unwinder was used to deliver the two films to the lamination nip. At the lamination nip, a tube with a series of holes was placed between the two layers of film, in close proximity to the two nip rolls. A variable peristaltic pump was used to deliver liquid to the tube at a specified rate of 50 ml per minute. Two zipper fin sealers were placed on either edge of the laminated film to provide two edge seals. The fin seal temperature was adjusted to 300°F. The edges were inspected for seal strength using a tensile tester and demonstrated fracture seal strength. The film was then transported to a stationary V-folder and folded in half in the machine direction on one side, approximately 2 inches offset. The resulting width of the folded film was 21 inches, including the 2-inch offset reserved for the wicket holes and 19 inches reserved for the body of the bag. The folded film was then transported to a bag sealing machine, which included a perforation unit to provide the wicket holes to be used in the wicketter section. The film was then conveyed to a reciprocating side sealer, which created and cut the leading and trailing bag seals. Because bags were continuously produced from a continuous stream of film, leading and trailing bags were always present; they were separated in the sealing and cutting sections of the bag machine. The cut-seal temperature was set at 700°F, and the machine speed was set at 200 cycles per minute. The bags were conveyed by a vacuum arm to a wicket junction and stacked until an automatic counting machine completed a batch of 100 bags. Duplicate bags were produced with and without the liquid activator. The two bag types were weighed, and the activator loading concentration was determined by subtracting the average weight of the standard bag from the average weight of the liquid-filled bag, resulting in 0.26 grams of liquid per bag. The bags were stored in high-barrier pouches for one month. Each bag was pulled out of the barrier pouch, weighed, and placed on a hanger in an inverted position for 24 hours. The bags were then reweighed and the average weight loss of the 12 bags was calculated to be 0.24 grams.

Claims

1. A laminated film, the film comprising: a barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a transmission film comprising the transmission resin; a liquid activator comprising a liquid volatile compound; Equipped with the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the barrier film and the permeable film; The liquid activator is applied at the interface and bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at least partially at the interface.

2. The barrier resin is (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof; or (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above The film of claim 1 , comprising:

3. 3. The film of claim 1 or 2, wherein the barrier film further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin.

4. The film of claim 3 , wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer having a higher surface energy than the transparent resin.

5. The adhesive resin is (i) ethylene grafted maleic anhydride, or anhydride modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof; or (ii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene grafted maleic anhydride (AMP), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above The film of claim 3 or 4, comprising:

6. The film of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the transparent resin comprises a thermoplastic resin.

7. The film of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the transparent resin comprises a polyolefin.

8. 8. The film of claim 7, wherein the polyolefin allows for the diffusion of the liquid active agent.

9. The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) low density polyethylene (LDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof; The film of any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising:

10. The film of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antimicrobial agent.

11. The liquid activator is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. The film of any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising:

12. The film of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the liquid activator has a surface energy compatible with the transparent resin at the interface such that the liquid activator spreads at the interface.

13. A laminated film bag, the bag comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each of the first outer barrier film and the second outer barrier film independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transmission film and a second inner transmission film, each of the first inner transmission film and the second inner transmission film independently comprising the transmission resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film; the liquid activator is applied at each interface to at least partially bond the barrier film and the permeable film at each interface; The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films; The top of the bag has a temporary seal.

14. 14. The bag of claim 13, wherein the top of the bag has a zipper seal.

15. A bag wicket, the bag wicket comprising a plurality of the laminated film bags according to claim 13 or 14; The bags are stacked and attached together to form a bundle, a wicket of bags.

16. 1. A laminated film bag containing a food product, said bag comprising: a first outer barrier film and a second outer barrier film, each of the first outer barrier film and the second outer barrier film independently comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; a first inner transmission film and a second inner transmission film, each of the first inner transmission film and the second inner transmission film independently comprising a transmission resin; a liquid activator comprising a volatile compound; Equipped with The sides and bottom of the bag are heat sealed through all permeable and barrier films; the food product is positioned within a space between the first inner permeable film and the second inner permeable film; the space creates a low vapor concentration partial pressure that draws the liquid activator into the space containing the food product; the barrier film and the permeable film are thermoplastic and weldable; an interface formed by the first outer barrier film and the first inner permeable film, and an interface formed by the second outer barrier film and the second inner permeable film; the liquid activator, when present at the interface, at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface; A bag wherein the liquid activator is in vapor form when present within the space containing the food product.

17. 17. The bag of claim 16, wherein the food product is perishable.

18. 18. The pouch of claim 16 or 17, wherein the food product is a loaf of bread.

19. The barrier resin is (i) polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), or a combination thereof; or (ii) nylon, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or any combination thereof; Or any combination of the above The bag according to any one of claims 13 to 18, comprising:

20. The bag of any one of claims 13-19, wherein at least one of the first and second barrier films further comprises an adhesive resin positioned between the barrier resin and the permeable resin.

21. 21. The bag of claim 20, wherein the adhesive resin comprises a polymer having a higher surface energy than the transparent resin.

22. The adhesive resin is (i) ethylene grafted maleic anhydride, or anhydride modified polyethylene, or a combination thereof; or (ii) ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or ethylene grafted maleic anhydride (AMP), or any combination thereof; 22. The bag of claim 20 or 21, comprising any combination of the above.

23. The bag of any one of claims 13-22, wherein the permeable resin comprises a thermoplastic resin.

24. The bag of any one of claims 13-22, wherein the permeable resin comprises a polyolefin.

25. 25. The bag of claim 24, wherein the polyolefin allows for the diffusion of the liquid active agent.

26. The transparent resin is (i) polyethylene, or (ii) low density polyethylene (LDPE), very low density polyethylene (VLDPE), or linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or any combination thereof; The bag according to any one of claims 13 to 22, comprising:

27. The bag of any one of claims 13 to 26, wherein the liquid active agent comprises at least one antimicrobial agent.

28. The liquid activator is (i) a flavonoid, a thiosulfinic acid, a glucosinolate, a phenol, an organic acid, or a saponin, or any combination thereof; or (ii) a terpene, aliphatic alcohol, an aldehyde, a ketone, an acid, or an isoflavonoid, or any combination thereof; or (iii) ethyl pyruvate, ethanol, thymol, eugenol, D-limonene, carvacrol, vanillin, allicin, cinnamaldehyde, or allyl isothiocyanate, or any combination thereof. The bag according to any one of claims 13 to 26, comprising:

29. 29. The bag of any one of claims 13-28, wherein the liquid activator has a surface energy compatible with the transparent resin at the interface such that when present at the interface, the liquid activator spreads at the interface.

30. 1. A method for manufacturing a plurality of laminated film bags, the method comprising: a) providing a roll of barrier film comprising a barrier resin encased in a permeable resin; b) providing a roll of a transparent film comprising a transparent resin; c) directing the barrier film and the permeable film toward a lamination nip; d) dispensing a liquid activator onto a surface of the barrier film prior to pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip; the surface of the barrier film is adjacent to the permeable film, and the liquid activator comprises a volatile compound; e) pulling the barrier film and the permeable film through the lamination nip, thereby applying the liquid activator between the barrier film and the permeable film to produce a laminated film; an interface formed by the barrier film and the permeable film, at least a portion of the barrier film being thermoplastically welded to the permeable film at the interface, and the liquid activator at least partially bonds the barrier film and the permeable film at the interface; f) heat sealing the edges of the laminated film to minimize loss of the liquid active agent; g) folding the heat-sealed film using a V-folder, so that the permeable film becomes an adjacent inner permeable layer and the barrier film becomes an outer barrier layer; h) cutting and sealing the folded film to produce the plurality of laminated film bags; A method comprising:

31. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the liquid activator has a surface energy compatible with the transparent resin at the interface such that the liquid activator spreads at the interface.

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