Method for making a container for consumer goods and container for consumer goods
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023501037
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-07-15
- Filing Date
- 2021-07-01
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-23
AI Technical Summary
Existing packaging solutions for aerosol-generating articles, such as those using biaxially oriented polypropylene film, contribute to environmental pollution and resource depletion, and fail to provide adequate moisture protection and tamper-evidence.
A container made from a multilayer structure comprising a cellulosic layer and a polymeric layer, with one layer being a moisture barrier and the other a heat-sealable layer, is formed into a package and wrapped with an outer wrapper to create a tamper-proof, moisture-controlled package.
The solution reduces plastic content, provides effective moisture protection, and ensures tamper-evidence through a sealed outer wrapper that cannot be removed without damage, while maintaining recyclability and ease of manufacturing.
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a container and a container for a consumer product. The container is preferably used for containing an elongated object such as an aerosol generating article.
Background Art
[0002] It is known to package cigarettes and more generally aerosol generating articles in cardboard boxes wrapped with biaxially oriented polypropylene film (BOPP film), in other words plastic film. This solution has been an industry standard for decades.
[0003] However, plastic packaging can have a harmful impact on the environment due to the potential for littering, the use of non-renewable resources and the potential impact on global warming.
[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to have a packaging solution that contains less plastic than is available. At the same time, a packaging solution for aerosol generating articles preferably provides protection of the product from moisture uptake or loss. Indeed, too much or insufficient moisture in an aerosol generating article can alter the user's smoking experience.
[0005] Furthermore, the packaging of aerosol generating articles is preferably "tamper-safe", i.e. it is preferably clear whether the packaging has already been opened.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need, inter alia, for a method of manufacturing a container adapted to contain an aerosol generating article having a reduced plastic content relative to prior art containers, and a container for a consumer product. There is also a need, inter alia, for a method of manufacturing a container adapted to contain an aerosol generating article for which it is clear whether the container has already been opened, and a container for a consumer product.
Summary of the Invention
[0007] According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a container for consumer goods. The method may include forming a first multilayer, the first multilayer comprising a first cellulosic layer and a first polymer layer. The method may include folding the first multilayer to form a package, the package defining a housing for consumer goods, and the first multilayer being folded such that the first polymer layer is provided on the outside of the first cellulosic layer. The method may include forming an outer wrapper, the outer wrapper comprising a second cellulosic layer and a second polymer layer. The method may include one of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer being a moisture barrier layer, and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer being a heat-sealable layer. The method may include wrapping the package with the outer wrapper, the wrapping being done such that the second polymer layer is provided on the inside of the second cellulosic layer. The method may include heating the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the package. A container is thus formed.
[0008] A first multilayer is formed to form the container according to the present invention. The first multilayer includes a first cellulosic layer and a first polymer layer. The first cellulosic layer is a layer containing cellulose material. Preferably, the first cellulosic layer is a paper layer or a cardboard layer, that is, a layer made of paper or cardboard.
[0009] The first polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, a heat-sealable layer, or both.
[0010] For the purposes of the present invention, the moisture barrier layer is a layer having a water vapor or moisture transmission rate (VWTR) of 20 grams / (m²) or less per 24 hours at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 percent relative humidity, as determined by ISO 2528:1995 or ASTM F3299. Preferably, the moisture barrier layer of the container of the present invention has a WVTR of less than 10 grams / (m²) per 24 hours at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 percent relative humidity.
[0011] The heat-sealable layer is a layer that can be fused by conventional indirect heating means, generating sufficient heat on at least one film contact surface to conduct heat to adjacent film contact surfaces and form an adhesive interface between surfaces, without impairing the integrity of the film. The adhesive interface between continuous layers preferably has sufficient physical strength to withstand the packaging process and subsequent processing. The heat-sealable layer may be designed to meet different conditions for intended use, and various heat-sealable layer formations are known in the art and can be employed in the present invention.
[0012] If the first polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer, a heat-sealable layer optimized for bonding with the second polymer layer is even more preferable. If the first polymer material has heat-seal properties, it is preferable that its heat-seal properties are optimized for bonding with the second polymer layer.
[0013] The heat-sealable layer preferably has a melting point of less than 100 degrees Celsius, as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). More preferably, the heat-sealable layer has a melting point of less than 80 degrees Celsius, as measured by DSC.
[0014] The first polymer layer and the first cellulosic layer are attached to each other to form a first multilayer. The first cellulosic layer and the first polymer layer can be attached together, preferably permanently, using any technique. The first polymer layer may be bonded to the surface of the first cellulosic layer. The first polymer layer may be coated onto the surface of the first cellulosic layer. It is preferable that the first polymer layer and the first cellulosic layer cover the same area. It is preferable that the first polymer layer and the first cellulosic layer have the same dimensions. It is preferable that the first polymer layer and the first cellulosic layer are aligned.
[0015] The first cellulose layer and the first polymer layer are preferably permanently attached to each other so that they substantially form a "blank". The blank preferably has a standard shape in the industry, for example, forming a rectangular sheet of multilayer material.
[0016] Next, the first layer, for example, a blank, is folded to produce a package. The way the blank is folded depends on the desired geometric shape of the package. For example, typically the package has the form of a parallelepiped. It is preferable that the blank is folded so that the package can be closed, that is, to define a completely closed internal volume that is completely isolated from the outside. It is preferable that the internal volume defined by the package is completely isolated from the outside. It is preferable that the consumer goods are stored within the internal volume.
[0017] Furthermore, the blank is folded such that the surface of the first cellulosic layer defines the inner surface of the package and the surface of the first polymer layer defines the outer surface of the package. Further layers may cover the first cellulose layer or the first polymer layer, but in either case, the first cellulosic layer is positioned inward relative to the first polymer layer.
[0018] When forming a closed package with a defined internal volume, the first multilayer can control the relative humidity within the internal volume. This occurs when the first polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer. Preferably, the box can be opened and closed, as detailed below. Preferably, the relative humidity within the internal volume is within a given desired range. The desired range is the optimal relative humidity range for the consumer goods stored within the internal volume. When the box is opened and one or more consumer goods stored within the internal volume are accessed, the relative humidity of the internal volume may begin to equilibrium with the external environment, and the relative humidity of the internal volume may deviate from the desired range. When the box is closed, the moisture barrier layer can help return the desired relative humidity to the desired range. This is particularly advantageous when one or more consumer goods remain in the package after opening and closing.
[0019] The package preferably includes a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a rear wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall. The package defines an inner surface and an outer surface.
[0020] The first cellulose layer preferably includes the inner surface of the package. The first polymer layer preferably includes the outer surface of the package. The inner surface of the package preferably is a free surface of the first cellulose layer. The outer surface of the package preferably is a free surface of the first polymer layer.
[0021] A second multilayer is formed, which functions as an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper includes a second cellulosic layer and a second polymer layer. The definition of the second cellulosic layer is the same as that of the first cellulosic layer; therefore, the second cellulosic layer is a layer containing cellulose material. Preferably, the second cellulosic layer is a paper layer or a cardboard layer, i.e., a layer made of paper or cardboard.
[0022] The second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, or a heat-sealing layer, or both. When the first polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, the second polymer layer is a heat-sealing layer, or the second polymer layer is both a heat-sealing layer and a moisture barrier layer. When the first polymer layer is a heat-sealing layer, the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, or the second polymer layer is both a moisture barrier layer and a heat-sealing layer. When the first polymer layer is both a heat-sealing layer and a moisture barrier layer, the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, or a heat-sealing layer, or both.
[0023] The definitions of the heat-sealing layer and the moisture barrier layer are the same as those used for the first polymer layer.
[0024] When the second polymer layer is a heat-sealing layer, a heat-sealing layer optimized for bonding with the first polymer layer is more preferable. When the second polymer layer has heat-sealing properties, the heat-sealing properties are such that they are optimized for bonding with the first polymer layer.
[0025] The heat-sealing layer preferably has a melting point of less than 100 degrees Celsius measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). More preferably, the heat-sealing layer has a melting point of less than 80 degrees Celsius measured according to DSC.
[0026] The second cellulose-based layer and the second polymer layer are permanently attached to each other. Preferably, they form a substantially "blank". The blank preferably has a standard shape in the industry, for example, forming a sheet of rectangular multi-layer material.
[0027] The second polymer layer and the second cellulose-based layer are attached to each other to form a second multilayer called an outer wrapper. Using any technique, preferably permanently, the second cellulose-based layer and the second polymer layer can be attached together. The second polymer layer may be adhered onto the surface of the second cellulose-based layer. The second polymer layer may be coated onto the surface of the second cellulose-based layer. The second polymer layer and the second cellulose-based layer preferably cover the same area. The second polymer layer and the second cellulose-based layer preferably have the same geometric dimensions. The second polymer layer and the second cellulose-based layer are preferably coincident.
[0028] The second multilayer is wrapped around the outer surface of the package. The second multilayer preferably completely covers the outer surface of the package. When the package is wrapped by the outer wrapper, it is preferable that there is no portion of the outer surface of the package visible from the outside. The wrapping is performed such that the second polymer material is on the inner side with respect to the second cellulose-based layer and the second cellulose-based layer is on the outer side with respect to the second polymer layer. Thus, the second cellulose layer may define an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface is preferably a free surface and the inner surface is covered by the second polymer layer.
[0029] In this way, a wrapped package is formed. The wrapping is preferably performed by folding a blank of the outer wrapper around the package in order to cover the entire outer surface of the package with the outer wrapper. The resulting geometric shape of the wrapped package is substantially the same as or very similar to the geometric shape of the package. The outer wrapper is folded around the package such that contact occurs between the walls of the package and the outer wrapper. The outer wrapper preferably contacts all the walls of the package. The outer wrapper preferably contacts the front wall of the package, the left side wall of the package, the right side wall of the package, the rear wall of the package, the upper wall of the package, and the bottom wall of the package.
[0030] Subsequently, heat is applied to the package wrapped by the second multilayer. The heat is preferably applied from the outside of the wrapped package. It is preferable that both heat and pressure are applied to the wrapped package. The heat or pressure, or both, seal the second polymer layer onto the outer surface of the package, for example, onto the first polymer layer. The heat applied to the outer wrapper is preferably such that the first or second polymer layer reaches a temperature of less than 100 degrees Celsius, more preferably less than 80 degrees Celsius. The pressure applied to the outer wrapper is preferably between 1 kilopascal and 100 kilopascals.
[0031] The material of the second polymer layer, or the first polymer layer, or both, is partially melted to seal them onto the package or the outer wrapper.
[0032] The container according to the present invention is formed after heat, pressure, or both are applied. The container is a packaged package after heat, pressure, or both are applied so that the outer wrapper is permanently attached to the package.
[0033] After applying heat, pressure, or both, the outer wrapper is permanently attached to the package and cannot be removed without deforming or damaging the container.
[0034] The container preferably includes a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a rear wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall. These walls correspond to the front wall, left wall, right wall, rear wall, top wall, and bottom wall of the packaged package, respectively. The container has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the container is the inner surface of the package.
[0035] The first cellulose layer preferably includes the inner surface of the container. The second cellulose layer preferably includes the outer surface. The inner surface of the container is preferably a free surface of the first cellulose layer. The outer surface of the container is preferably a free surface of the second cellulose layer.
[0036] The first polymer layer and the second polymer layer may be formed from the same polymer layer. For example, the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer may be formed from a polymer material that has both heat-sealing properties and moisture-proof barrier properties.
[0037] The first and second polymer layers may be formed from two different polymer materials. In this way, heat seal properties or moisture barrier properties can be optimized for each layer.
[0038] The first cellulosic layer and the second cellulosic layer may be formed from the same cellulosic material.
[0039] After packaging, the outer surface of the container realized by the present invention may be decorated by printing, embossing, debossing, or other methods with the manufacturer's or brand's logo, trademark, slogan, and other consumer information and markings. Since the outer surface of the container is made of a cellulose-based material, printing on it is easy and can be done according to standard techniques in the art.
[0040] Furthermore, other elements may be part of the container formed by the method of the present invention. For example, the container may include an inner package for containing consumer goods, such as aerosol-generating articles. The inner package may be located inside the container. The inner package is preferably formed of metal foil or metallized paper. The inner package material may be formed as a laminate of metallized polyethylene film and liner material.
[0041] The container according to the present invention has recyclability equivalent to or better than current packaging solutions. Compared to cellulose-based containers packaged in transparent plastic film, the realization of the container according to the present invention uses the same or less amount of plastic and the same or more amount of cellulose-based material.
[0042] At the same time, because the second cellulosic layer substantially forms the outer surface of the container, consumers perceive the container as being more environmentally friendly. Furthermore, if any markings, such as trademarks, are provided on the outer surface of the second cellulosic layer, they can still be easily formed according to standard processes.
[0043] The presence of a layer with moisture-proof barrier properties makes it possible to protect consumer goods from excessively high or low humidity levels.
[0044] The container according to the present invention is easy to manufacture and does not require significant modification of existing packaging equipment. In particular, there is virtually no need to change the folding process for forming a package using the first multilayer blank, or the type of packaging machine that handles the blank.
[0045] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a container for consumer goods. The container comprises a package including a box portion and a lid portion, the package defining a housing for consumer goods, the lid portion being hinged to the box portion by a hinge line, an opening line separating the box portion and the lid portion to the outside of the hinge line, the box portion and the lid portion being formed by folding a first multilayer blank. The first multilayer blank preferably comprises a first cellulosic layer. The first multilayer blank preferably comprises a first polymer layer provided on the outside of the first cellulosic layer. The container also preferably comprises an outer wrapper that is wrapped and sealed on the package and at least partially covers the opening line. The outer wrapper preferably comprises a second cellulosic layer. The outer wrapper preferably comprises a second polymer layer provided on the inside of the second cellulosic layer. Preferably, one of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a heat sealable layer.
[0046] A container for consumer goods preferably has a lid to allow easy access to the consumer goods contained within the container. The lid is movable between a closed position and an open position. When the lid is in the closed position, the container defines a closed housing for the consumer goods. Furthermore, when the lid is in the open position, the housing containing the consumer goods is accessible.
[0047] In known solutions, containers with a lid may not provide tamper-proof evidence; in other words, it is difficult to assess the container's condition when it is first opened. According to the present invention, the container is formed as detailed in the first aspect of the invention and has the advantages already outlined in the previous aspect. In addition, the container of the present invention is also tamper-proof because the outer wrapper must be broken to open the lid.
[0048] The package is formed by folding a first multilayer blank. The first multilayer blank may include opening lines and hinge lines such that when the blank is folded to form the package, the package is divided into a lid portion and a box portion by opening lines and hinge lines. The hinge lines and opening lines are preferably continuous. The opening lines and hinge lines are preferably forming a closed loop on the outer surface of the package. The opening lines are preferably including a first end and a second end. The hinge lines are preferably including a first end and a second end. The first end of the hinge line is preferably touching (contacting) the first end of the opening line. The second end of the hinge line is preferably touching the second end of the opening line.
[0049] The opening line may be an opening notch or a first weak line. The opening notch may be formed by the edge of the lid portion closing over the box portion. The lid portion remains tightly closed to the box portion due to the presence of an outer wrapper that keeps the lid portion closed over the box portion.
[0050] The first weak line may be continuous or discontinuous (for example, perforated). Furthermore, the first weak line may be formed using any suitable technique or a combination of techniques, such as laser cutting or mechanical cutting (e.g., die cutting, kiss cutting).
[0051] The first multilayer preferably has a total thickness given by the sum of the thickness of the first polymer layer and the thickness of the first cellulosic layer. The first weak line may have any suitable depth transversely on the inner and outer surfaces of the first cellulosic layer and the first polymer layer. The first weak line preferably has a depth of at least about 90 percent of the total thickness of the first multilayer. More preferably, the first weak line has a depth of about 100 percent of the total thickness of the first multilayer, i.e., it is a notch. Any suitable proportion of material may remain along the first weak line.
[0052] The lid portion preferably includes a front lid wall, a left lid wall, a right lid wall, a rear lid wall, and an upper lid wall. The lid portion has an inner surface and an outer surface.
[0053] The box portion preferably includes a front wall, a left wall, a right wall, a rear wall, and an upper wall. The box portion has an inner surface and an outer surface.
[0054] The hinge line is preferably realized on the rear wall of the package. The hinge line divides the rear wall of the package into two parts: the rear wall of the lid portion and the rear wall of the box portion. The hinge line is preferably formed parallel to the bottom wall of the package.
[0055] The front wall of the package also preferably includes a segment of an opening line. The opening line divides the front wall of the package into two parts: the front wall of the lid portion and the front wall of the box portion. The segment of the opening line is preferably realized parallel to the bottom wall of the package.
[0056] The left and right walls of the package also preferably include segments of an opening line. Each segment of the opening line on the side wall preferably connects a hinge line on the rear wall of the package to a segment of the opening line on the front wall. The opening line divides each of the side walls of the package into two parts: the left (right) side wall of the lid portion and the left (right) side wall of the box portion.
[0057] The opening lines on the side walls may form an angle different from 90 degrees with the rear wall. Therefore, the opening line segments on the right and left walls of the package are preferably not parallel to the bottom wall of the package. The height of the hinge line is preferably different from the height of the opening line segment on the front wall of the package.
[0058] Once the package is wrapped by the outer wrapper and subsequently heated and sealed on the package, the outer wrapper becomes an integral part of the package, forming the container of the present invention. The outer wrapper cannot be separated from the package without damaging either the outer wrapper or the package.
[0059] The outer wrapper covers the opening line at least partially. Preferably, the outer wrapper completely covers the opening line. Preferably, the outer wrapper covers both the opening line and the hinge line. Therefore, in order to open the lid portion from the box portion and access the consumer goods stored in the housing defined by the package, the outer wrapper must be broken because it covers the opening line at least partially. The outer wrapper must be broken to allow the lid portion to move from the closed position to the open position. The opening line is the edge of the lid portion.
[0060] If the opening line includes a first weak line, both the first weak line and the outer wrapper are preferably torn or broken when the container is opened.
[0061] When force is applied to separate the box portion from the lid portion, the most likely place for the outer wrapper to break is near the opening line. The package is opened at the opening line. Once the outer wrapper breaks, the lid portion rotates and moves around the hinge line, opening the package. At the start of this movement, the lid portion breaks the outer wrapper, covering at least partially the opening line.
[0062] Since the outer wrapper breaks, it is impossible to conceal the fact that the container has been opened at least once after manufacturing. Furthermore, the outer wrapper is permanently sealed on the package and therefore cannot be replaced. In this way, users who purchase a container according to the present invention can be confident that the container has never been opened if they see no damage on the outer wrapper. As a result, users can be confident that no one has tampered with the consumer goods contained within the package after they have been placed inside.
[0063] Hereafter, the lid portion wrapped in the outer wrapper will be referred to as the container lid after the outer wrapper has been torn off, i.e., after the "first opening," and the box portion wrapped in the outer wrapper will be referred to as the container box after the outer wrapper has been torn off, i.e., after the "first opening."
[0064] The step of heating the package and outer wrapper preferably includes heating the package and outer wrapper while applying pressure to seal the outer wrapper onto the package. To properly seal the outer wrapper onto the package, it is preferable that both heat and pressure be applied so that the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer are bonded together.
[0065] The method preferably involves folding a first multilayer to form a package including a lid portion and a box portion, the box portion and the lid portion being separated by an opening line, and the lid portion being hinged to the box portion. The method preferably involves wrapping the box portion and the lid portion with an outer wrapper, the outer wrapper covering at least a portion of the opening line. The method preferably involves heating the wrapped outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the package. A package having a lid portion and a box portion is preferably realized. The lid portion and the box portion are separated by an opening line. The advantages of this configuration have already been outlined with reference to one aspect of the present invention and will not be repeated here.
[0066] The opening line preferably includes the first weak line.
[0067] The method preferably includes the step of completely covering the opening line with an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper covers the opening line in all its extensions. For example, the opening line extends over the front wall and left and right side walls of the package. Thus, the outer wrapper covers the front wall and left and right side walls to wrap the package. Preferably, the outer wrapper covers the entire outer surface of the package. Good control of humidity and structural integrity of the resulting container is obtained. The step of forming the outer wrapper preferably includes the step of forming an outer wrapper that includes a third polymer layer.
[0068] The first cellulosic layer is more preferably defined by an inner surface and an outer surface. The step of forming the first multilayer preferably includes coating the outer surface of the first cellulosic layer with the first polymer layer. The method more preferably includes coating the entire outer surface of the first cellulosic layer with the first polymer layer. Among the possible techniques for forming multilayers in which various layers of the multilayer form a single unit, coating is a preferred technique due to its reliability and relative ease of implementation. Due to the tensile strength of the first polymer layer, the blank formed by the first multilayer may contain less cellulosic material than a blank for a cigarette package realized according to the prior art.
[0069] During the coating of the first cellulosic layer with the material forming the first polymer layer, care is preferably taken to prevent the formation of pinholes and other defects that may adversely affect the moisture barrier performance or heat seal properties of the coated material. The formation of defects can be minimized by carefully selecting the polymer application technique, drying conditions, and the rheology of the dispersion to be applied. In particular, techniques such as rod coating, slot die coating, and curtain coating allow for the preparation of polymer layers with reduced defects and thus enhanced barrier properties. However, it is also possible to apply a satisfactory coating using printing techniques such as flexographic printing or gravure coating. In the case of these latter techniques, it is preferable that the coating be applied in multiple layers until the desired thickness of the first polymer layer is reached. In fact, each subsequent layer or step of printing allows for the filling of pinhole defects remaining during the previous coating step. The coating made of the first polymer material may be cast from a molten state onto the first cellulosic layer, such as a sheet of paper or cardboard, using techniques well known in the art, such as hot melt coating or extrusion coating. Details of these processes can be found, for example, in "The Definitive Processing Guide and Handbook," Plastics Design Library Editor, 2014, Pages 551-554 (https: / / doi.org / 10.1016 / B978-1-4377-3481-2.00047-8).
[0070] The step of forming the outer wrapper preferably includes forming an outer wrapper that includes a third polymer layer. If the second polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer, the third polymer layer is preferably a moisture barrier layer. Alternatively, if the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, the third polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer. In this way, by providing one or more layers, it is possible to enhance the moisture barrier performance or the sealing performance, or both, by using special compositions in each layer between the second polymer layer and the third polymer layer (for example, by selecting one layer between the second and third polymer layers as an optimal moisture barrier layer and the other layer between the second and third polymer layers for optimal sealing), thereby improving the moisture barrier properties or the attachment between the outer wrapper and the package.
[0071] The second cellulosic layer preferably has defined inner and outer surfaces, the first polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer, and forming an outer wrapper involves covering the inner surface of the second cellulosic layer with the second polymer layer. Forming an outer wrapper also preferably involves covering the inner surface of the second polymer layer with a third polymer layer. In this way, the two heat-sealable layers (the third polymer layer and the first polymer layer) come into contact when the outer wrapper wraps the package. In this way, the seal of the outer wrapper onto the package is optimized. The coating of the second cellulosic layer with the second polymer layer is preferably carried out according to the preferred properties described with reference to the coating of the first cellulosic layer with the first polymer layer.
[0072] The method preferably involves folding a first multilayer to form a package including a lid portion and a box portion, the box portion and the lid portion being separated by an opening line, and the lid portion being hinged to the box portion. The method preferably involves wrapping the box portion and the lid portion with an outer wrapper, the outer wrapper covering at least a portion of the opening line. The method preferably involves forming a second weak line on the portion of the outer wrapper that covers the opening line. The method more preferably involves opening the lid portion by tearing or breaking the second weak line. It is preferable to have an easy opening that allows the user to perform the opening without applying excessive force in order to properly open the lid portion and access the consumer goods stored in the package. Furthermore, it is preferable that the need to tear or break the outer wrapper is somewhat controlled due to the fact that the outer wrapper covers at least a portion of the opening line. For this purpose, a second weak line is formed on the outer wrapper. The second weak line is preferably formed on the outer surface of the outer wrapper. The second weak line is preferably an extension of the opening line. In the front view, the second weak line is positioned at the same height as the opening line. In the left and right side views, the second weak line is positioned at the same height as the opening line. In this way, when force is applied to the container to open the lid, the force required to break or tear the outer wrapper at the second weak line is less than the force required to break or tear the outer wrapper if the second weak line were not present. In addition, the outer wrapper is torn or broken in a controlled manner, improving the aesthetics of the opened container.
[0073] The opening line preferably includes a first weak line. The method more preferably includes opening the lid portion by tearing or breaking the opening line and the second weak line. If the opening line is a weak line, the user breaks or tears both the first and second weak lines using the same motion.
[0074] The second weak line may preferably be produced by any suitable partial cutting process of the second cellulosic layer (i.e., the cutting process cuts less than 100% of the thickness of the second cellulosic layer, or the cutting process cuts less than 100% of the width of the second cellulosic layer when it is unfolded). After partial cutting, the second polymer layer is applied to the second cellulosic layer.
[0075] This second weak line may preferably be created on the outer wrapper before the package is wrapped with the outer wrapper.
[0076] The second weak line is preferably formed on the second cellulosic layer before it is coated by the second or third polymer layer. Alternatively, the second weak line is formed on the second cellulosic layer if the latter is already coated by the second polymer layer, the third polymer layer, or both.
[0077] The method preferably includes printing a mark relating to the consumer product or the manufacturer of the consumer product on a second cellulosic layer. More preferably, the method includes printing a mark relating to the consumer product or the manufacturer of the consumer product on the outer surface of the second cellulosic layer. The container preferably has a defined outer surface. The outer surface of the container is preferably formed by the outer surface of the second cellulosic layer. The outer surface of the container is preferably made of paper or cardboard. Thus, any mark can be printed on this outer surface using standard printing techniques. The printing is not easily removed and remains substantially unchanged over a long period of time. This makes it possible to print health warnings on the container without the risk of them being easily removed (the outer wrapper cannot be removed from the package after sealing).
[0078] The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a moisture barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion of a copolymer of styrene and an acrylic acid ester with wax. The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a moisture barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion of a copolymer of styrene and butadiene with wax. The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a moisture barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion of an emulsion The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a moisture barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion of wax and two or more polymers or copolymers of ethylene and acrylic acid esters, styrene and butadiene, ethylene and vinyl acetate, ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, or ethylene and propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, or norbornene. Preferred waxes are paraffin, microcrystalline wax, or hydrocarbon wax. Adding a certain amount of wax to one or more of the polymers or copolymers listed above reduces the moisture permeability of the polymer or copolymer. This is detailed, for example, in US4117199. Examples of these possible compositions can be found, for example, in US2580050, US2595911, US2945398, or EP0688793.
[0079] The wax content is preferably 5 to 15 percent by weight relative to the polymer or copolymer. In this way, appropriate moisture barrier properties are obtained and a good emulsion is achieved.
[0080] In the extrusion coating process, the cellulosic layer (either a first or second cellulosic layer, or both) is coated by a polymer layer (either a first, second, or third polymer layer), and polymers such as low-density polymer layer (LDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are preferred as materials for forming the first, second, or third polymer layer. To achieve an outer wrapper with an acceptable compromise between moisture barrier properties and heat seal properties, the outer wrapper preferably includes a multilayer coating comprising a layer of LDPE and a layer of HDPE. As an example, for moisture barrier purposes, the second cellulosic layer is coated using 5 gsm of LDPE, 10 gsm of HDPE, and 5 gsm of ethylene acrylic acid copolymer as a sealing layer.
[0081] Furthermore, the moisture barrier performance of HDPE, MDPE, or LDPE layers can be increased by blending them with hydrocarbon waxes obtained from petroleum refining.
[0082] The definitions of LDPE, MDPE, and HDPE used herein are in accordance with ASTM D0883-20B (Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics) and are as follows: The density of LDPE is 0.910 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cm³). 3 ) ~0.925 grams / cubic centimeter (g / cm 3 It consists of ), and the density of HDPE is 0.941 grams / cubic centimeter (g / cm³). 3 The density of MDPE is 0.926 grams / cubic centimeter (g / cm³). 3) ~0.940 grams / cubic centimeter (g / cm) 3 ) consists of.
[0083] The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a heat-sealable layer from an emulsion or dispersion of an ethylene copolymer. The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a heat-sealable layer from an emulsion or dispersion of a methacrylic acid copolymer. The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a heat-sealable layer from an emulsion or dispersion of an acrylic acid or methacrylic acid ester copolymer. The step of forming a first multilayer or an outer wrapper preferably includes forming a heat-sealable layer from two or more emulsions or dispersions of ethylene copolymer, methacrylic acid copolymer, or acrylic acid or methacrylic acid ester copolymer. Preferred examples of polymers for the production of the heat-sealable layer are, but are not limited to, ethylene-based copolymers such as copolymers of ethylene and acrylic acid, or methacrylic acid, or esters thereof such as methyl, ethyl, butyl, ethylhexylacrylic acid, or methacrylic acid. These polymers possess the desired heat sealability at the target temperature. These polymers are also preferred because they may exhibit high fluidity when in a molten state. The fluidity of a material can be expressed by the Melt Flow Index (MFI) at 190 degrees Celsius (°C) and a pressurization of 2.16 kilograms (kg) (ASTM D1238). A preferred heat-sealable layer has an MFI greater than 100 grams / min, more preferably greater than 200 grams / min. The MFI can indicate the rheological indication of the heat-sealable layer. A higher MFI indicates higher fluidity at lower shear rates (where the shear rate is the pressure applied during sealing). This means that a high MFI is preferable to achieve a good seal of the outer wrapper onto the package at relatively low pressures. A higher MFI is preferable at lower applied pressures.
[0084] The outer wrapper preferably includes a third polymer layer. More preferably, one layer between the second and third polymer layers is a heat-sealable layer, and the other layer between the second and third polymer layers is a moisture-proof barrier layer. In this way, the properties (e.g., heat-sealability or moisture-proof barrier) of each layer between the second and third polymer layers can be optimized.
[0085] The third polymer layer is preferably located on the inside of the second polymer layer. This configuration is preferred when the third polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture-proof barrier layer. In this way, the two heat-sealable layers, the first polymer layer and the third polymer layer, are in contact with each other, and a good seal is obtained when heat, pressure, or both are applied to the outer wrapper that packages the package.
[0086] The outer wrapper preferably includes a second weak line formed on a portion of the outer wrapper that covers the opening line. The second weak line is preferably formed on the outer surface of the outer wrapper.
[0087] The second cellulosic layer preferably has a first thickness, and the second weak line preferably includes an etched line having a depth of 80 percent or less of the first thickness. The second weak line is preferably realized only on the second cellulosic layer. The second weak line is preferably not deep enough to form etching on the second or third polymer layer as well. This is particularly relevant if the second or third polymer layer has heat-seal properties, and therefore a substantially uniform seal can be obtained when heat is applied. If the second or third polymer layer has moisture-proof barrier properties, the etching may create a moisture-free, replaceable area. The first thickness of the second cellulosic layer is preferably 30 to 60 micrometers. The depth of the second weak line is preferably at least 50 percent of the first thickness. The depth of the second weak line is preferably 50 to 80 percent of the thickness of the second cellulosic layer. In this way, the container can be easily opened and the properties of the second polymer layer are not impaired.
[0088] The thickness of the first cellulose layer is preferably 200 micrometers to 400 micrometers.
[0089] The thickness of the first polymer layer is preferably less than 10 micrometers, more preferably less than 5 micrometers.
[0090] The second weak line is preferably formed on the second cellulosic layer before coating with the second polymer layer. The second weak line is preferably formed on the outer wrapper before wrapping the package with the outer wrapper.
[0091] The moisture barrier layer preferably contains a copolymer of styrene and acrylic acid ester and wax. The moisture barrier layer preferably contains a copolymer of styrene and butadiene and wax. The moisture barrier layer preferably contains a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate and wax. The moisture barrier layer preferably contains a copolymer of ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid and wax. The moisture barrier layer preferably contains a polymer or copolymer of ethylene and propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene and wax. The moisture barrier layer preferably contains wax and two or more of the following: a copolymer of ethylene and acrylic acid ester, a copolymer of styrene and butadiene, a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, a copolymer of ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, or a polymer or copolymer of ethylene and propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene.
[0092] Preferred waxes are paraffin, microcrystalline wax, or hydrocarbon wax.
[0093] The wax preferably comprises paraffin, microcrystalline wax, or hydrocarbon wax. The wax may comprise a combination of one or more of paraffin, microcrystalline wax, or hydrocarbon wax.
[0094] The heat-sealable layer preferably contains an ethylene copolymer. The heat-sealable layer preferably contains a methacrylic acid copolymer. The heat-sealable layer preferably contains an acrylic acid or methacrylic acid ester copolymer. The heat-sealable layer preferably contains two or more of the following: an ethylene copolymer, a methacrylic acid copolymer, or an acrylic acid or methacrylic acid ester copolymer. Preferred examples of polymers for the production of the heat-sealable layer are, but are not limited to, ethylene-based copolymers such as copolymers of ethylene with acrylic acid, or methacrylic acid, or esters thereof such as methyl, ethyl, butyl, ethylhexylacrylic acid, or methacrylic acid.
[0095] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heat-sealable layer is prepared from a dispersion of paraffin wax-modified ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (EAA). A suitable EAA copolymer is Primacor 5980I, mechanically dispersed in water and partially neutralized with ammonia, and this dispersion may contain up to 10 percent of the total weight of paraffin wax relative to the EAA. A preferred paraffin wax has a melting point of 60 degrees Celsius.
[0096] These aqueous dispersions can be prepared by mechanically high-shear mixing in hot water with a maximum solid content of 35 to 40 percent (ratio of solid components to the total weight of the dispersion).
[0097] Preferably, the first polymer layer and the third polymer layer are made of the same material. Preferably, the first polymer layer and the third polymer layer have the same physical and chemical properties. Preferably, the first polymer layer and the third polymer layer are heat-sealable layers.
[0098] The first cellulosic layer preferably has a basis weight of 180 grams / square meter (gsm) to 270 grams / square meter (gsm). The weight per square meter of the first cellulosic layer is preferably greater than the weight per square meter of the second cellulosic layer. The first cellulosic layer has a weight per square meter that is equivalent to or lower than that of a cellulose layer used to form a standard cigarette package known in the art. The rigidity and mechanical properties of the container according to the present invention are preferably similar to those of cigarette packages known in the art. The "loss" of rigidity due to the low weight per square meter is compensated for by the presence of the first polymer layer.
[0099] The second paper material layer preferably has a basis weight of 40 grams / m² to 60 grams / m². The second cellulose-based sheet included in the outer wrapper is preferably relatively lightweight because it does not need to provide structural stability to the container.
[0100] Preferably, the first polymer layer has a basis weight of 4 grams / m² to 10 grams / m², more preferably 4 grams / m² to 6 grams / m².
[0101] Preferably, the third polymer layer has a basis weight of 4 grams / m² to 10 grams / m².
[0102] The second polymer layer preferably has a basis weight of 5 grams / m² to 12 grams / m².
[0103] The polymer layer is selected to have a weight sufficient to achieve the desired heat-sealability or waterproof barrier properties.
[0104] The heat-sealable layer preferably has a melting point of less than 100 degrees Celsius as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). More preferably, the heat-sealable layer has a melting point of less than 80 degrees Celsius as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The temperature is within the scope of the claims, which allows for an optimal seal with the material forming the container without damaging the container.
[0105] The heat-sealable layer preferably has a melt flow index of more than 100 grams / minute at 190 degrees Celsius and a pressurization of 2.16 kilograms (kg).
[0106] The containers realized by the present invention have a particular application as containers for elongated aerosol-generating articles (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, or other aerosol generators) that rely on heating by, for example, an electric or carbon heat source rather than burning tobacco. Naturally, by appropriately selecting its dimensions, the containers according to the present invention may be designed for a different number of conventional size, king size, super king size, slim, or super slim aerosol-generating articles. Alternatively, other consumer goods may be contained within the containers.
[0107] For example, by appropriately selecting the dimensions, the container according to the present invention may be designed to hold a total of 10 to 30 aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating articles may be arranged in different configurations depending on the total number of articles.
[0108] The container formed according to the present invention may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped having a right-angled edge in the longitudinal direction and a right-angled edge in the transverse direction. Alternatively, the container may include one or more rounded edges in the longitudinal direction, rounded edges in the transverse direction, chamfered edges in the longitudinal direction, or chamfered edges in the transverse direction, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the container may have a non-rectangular cross-section, such as a polygon (triangular or hexagonal, for example), a semi-ellipse, or a semicircle.
[0109] Typically, the external dimensions of the container are approximately 0.5 mm to 5 mm larger than the dimensions of the bundle(s) of aerosol-generating articles contained within the container.
[0110] The height of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 60 mm to about 150 mm, and more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, with the height measured from the bottom wall to the top wall of the container. The width of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 12 mm to about 150 mm, and more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, with the width measured from one side wall to the other side wall of the container.
[0111] The depth of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 6 mm to about 150 mm, and more preferably about 12 mm to about 25 mm, where the depth is measured from the front wall to the rear wall of the container (including the hinge between the box and the lid).
[0112] The ratio of the container height to the container depth is preferably about 0.3:1 to about 10:1, more preferably about 2:1 to about 8:1, and most preferably about 3:1 to 5:1.
[0113] The ratio of the depth of the container to the width of the container is preferably about 0.3:1 to about 10:1, more preferably about 2:1 to about 8:1, and most preferably about 2:1 to 3:1.
[0114] If the container contains an aerosol-generating article, the container may further include a compartment for waste (e.g., ash or cigarette butts) or other consumer goods (e.g., matches, lighters, fire extinguishing devices, breath fresheners, or electronic components). The other consumer goods may be attached to the outside of the container, housed inside the container together with the aerosol-generating article in a separate compartment of the container, or a combination of these.
[0115] Throughout this specification, the term “inner surface” is used to refer to the surface of an assembled container component that faces inward (e.g., toward the consumer goods) when the container is in a closed position. Throughout this specification, the term “outer surface” is used to refer to the surface of a container component that faces outward from the container. For example, the front wall of a container has an inner surface that faces inward toward the container and the consumer goods, and an outer surface that faces away from the consumer goods. It should be noted that an inner or outer surface does not necessarily correspond to a particular side of the blank used to assemble the container. Depending on how the blank is folded around the consumer goods, areas on the same side of the blank may face inward or outward toward the container.
[0116] As used herein, the terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom,” and “side” refer to the relative positions of a portion of the container and its components according to the present invention when the container is in an upright position and the access opening of the container is at the top of the container. When describing the container according to the present invention, these terms are used regardless of the orientation of the container being described. The rear wall of an outer hinged lid container is a wall containing the hinge line.
[0117] The term "width" is used to describe the dimensions of an element, such as a blank panel or the wall of a container, measured in the transverse direction.
[0118] The term "panel" is used throughout this specification to refer to a portion of a blank used to form the walls of an assembled container. A panel may be subordinate to one or more other panels along one or more folds.
[0119] The term "fold" refers to the fold between two adjacent panels. When forming a container, adjacent panels fold along their common fold, which can define the edge of the container or a part of the container.
[0120] In an assembled container, the "walls" may be formed by one or more overlapping panels. If there are several overlapping panels, they may be attached to each other, for example, by adhesive. Furthermore, the walls may be formed by two or more adjacent or overlapping panels.
[0121] The term "height" is used to describe the dimension of a single such element, measured in a direction perpendicular to the element's width. When describing a blank element, the element is generally described in its flat, blank state.
[0122] As used herein, the term "thickness" refers to the minimum distance measured between two opposing surfaces of a sheet blank or a layer of a sheet blank. In practice, the distance at a given location is measured along a direction that is locally perpendicular to the opposing surfaces.
[0123] The "thickness" of a layer is generally substantially constant throughout the entire layer (the flat cross-section).
[0124] However, if the sheet-like blank portion has been subjected to processes such as embossing, debossing, or weakening, localized variations are acceptable.
[0125] The term "hinge line" refers to a line around which the lid can pivot in order to open the hinged lid housing. The hinge line may be, for example, a fold or score line within a panel forming the rear wall of the container.
[0126] The term “weak line” is used herein to describe a portion of the surface of a container or package (or a blank forming a container or package) from which the structural strength of the material from which the container or package (or blank) is formed is weakened by any suitable technique, for example, bending, folding, or tearing along the weak line. For example, a weak line may be formed as a score line, a groove line, a cut line, or a perforation line. A weak line can be created by removing material, displacing material, compressing material, locally reducing the force holding material together (for example, by breaking fibers in fibrous material), or by a combination of all of the above. A weak line may be a straight line, a curve, a fragmented or continuous line, or a combination thereof. In many examples, weak lines are used to help position folds within a blank. Weak lines can also be used to strengthen material in a direction perpendicular to the weak line, for example, by compression. Furthermore, weak lines can be used for decorative purposes.
[0127] The term "scoreline" is used to describe lines formed by partially cutting into the blank material. Scorelines may also be formed by removing material from the blank (in which case the scorelines form grooves or valleys within the blank). Alternatively, scorelines may be formed without removing any material from the blank, which typically involves partial lateral slippage and compression of the material, caused by a non-zero thickness knife penetrating the material. The depth of the scoreline will be less than the thickness of the blank.
[0128] The term "grooving line" is used to describe a line formed by displacing a portion of material perpendicular to the plane of the blank, creating a groove or valley in the blank. The displacement may involve compression, typically using compression tools such as rollers. Alternatively, or additionally, the material within the grooving line may be displaced so as to protrude at least partially from the opposite side of the blank. Generally, no material is removed when a grooving line is formed.
[0129] The term "cut line" is used to describe a line formed from the surface of a blank by removing material to a predetermined depth through excision (for example, by a laser beam or blade).
[0130] The term "perforation line" is used to describe a line or arrangement of individual holes or slots within a blank. Holes may be formed by pressing an object through the blank. This may result in material being removed from the blank, for example, by punching. Alternatively, holes may be created without removing any material, by simply using an object to push the material outward from the center of the hole. Another alternative method is to form the holes by a laser beam.
[0131] The term "crease" is used to describe any line in a blank around which the blank is folded. The crease may be defined by a weak line to assist the folding action. Alternatively, depending on the flexibility characteristics of the blank material and other materials, the fold may be formed without the presence of a weak line.
[0132] In the framework of the present invention, paper is a sheet of material produced by mechanically and / or chemically processing cellulose fibers in water. The cellulose fibers may be derived from wood, rug, grass, or other plant sources. The water is then drained, for example, through a fine mesh to evenly distribute the fibers on the surface, and then pressurized and dried. The sheet of paper may also contain fillers and additives in addition to the pulp. The pulp used may be bleached or unbleached and obtained from a variety of processes. In particular, suitable types of pulp are hardwood kraft pulp, softwood kraft pulp, sulfite pulp or other chemical pulp, mechanical pulp, thermomechanical pulp, chemothermetic pulp, or other types of mechanical pulp, and recycled paper pulp can also be used. For the purposes of the present invention, thermomechanical pulp, chemothermetic pulp (CTMP), chemical pulp, or blends thereof are preferred.
[0133] As used herein, an aerosol-forming article is any article that generates an inhalable aerosol when an aerosol-forming substrate is heated. This term includes articles comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that is heated by an external heat source, such as an electric heating element. An aerosol-forming article may be a non-combustible aerosol-forming article, which is an article that releases volatile compounds without using combustion of the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol-forming article may be a heated aerosol-forming article, which is an aerosol-forming article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that is intended to be heated rather than burned in order to release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. This term includes articles comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and an integrated heat source (e.g., a flammable heat source).
[0134] The aerosol-forming article according to the present invention may be in the form of a filtered flammable cigarette, or other smoking article in which tobacco material burns to form smoke.
[0135] The aerosol-forming article may preferably be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-forming article may also be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to that length. The aerosol-forming article may have an overall length of about 30 mm to about 100 mm. The aerosol-forming article may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm.
[0136] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. Any one or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.
[0137] Example 1: A method for manufacturing containers for consumer goods, - To form a first multilayer, the first multilayer comprising a first cellulosic layer and a first polymer layer, - Folding a first multilayer to form a package, the package defining a housing for consumer goods, the first multilayer is folded such that the first polymer layer is provided on the outside of the first cellulosic layer, - To form an outer wrapper, wherein the outer wrapper comprises a second cellulosic layer and a second polymer layer. - One of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer. - The packaging involves wrapping the package with an outer wrapper, wherein the packaging is provided such that a second polymer layer is provided on the inside of a second cellulosic layer. A method comprising: heating the package and outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the package and form a container. Example 2: Heating the package and outer wrapper is - A method according to Example 1, comprising heating the package and outer wrapper while applying pressure to seal the outer wrapper over the package. Example 3: - The first layer is folded to form a package including a lid portion and a box portion, wherein the box portion and the lid portion are separated by an opening line, and the lid portion is hinged to the box portion, and the folding is... - The box portion and lid portion are wrapped with an outer wrapper, the outer wrapper covering at least partially the opening line, - A method according to Example 1 or 2, comprising heating the package and the wrapped outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper over the package. Example 4: The opening line includes the first weak line, as per the method of Example 3. Example 5: - A method according to Example 3 or 4, which includes the step of completely covering the opening line with an outer wrapper. Example 6: The first cellulosic layer defines the inner and outer surfaces, forming the first multilayer. - A method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 5, comprising coating the outer surface of the first cellulose-based layer with a first polymer layer. Example 7: The step of forming the outer wrapper is a method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 6, which includes the step of forming an outer wrapper containing a third polymer layer. Example 8: The second polymer layer defines the inner and outer surfaces, the second cellulose-based layer defines the inner and outer surfaces, and the first polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer, forming an outer wrapper. - Covering the second cellulose layer with a second polymer layer, - A method according to Example 7, comprising coating the inner surface of the second polymer layer with a third polymer layer. Example 9: - The first layer is folded to form a package including a lid portion and a box portion, wherein the box portion and the lid portion are separated by an opening line, and the lid portion is hinged to the box portion, and the folding is... - The box portion and lid portion are wrapped with an outer wrapper, the outer wrapper covering at least partially the opening line, - A method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 8, comprising forming a second weak line on a portion of the outer wrapper covering the opening line. Example 10: - A method according to Example 9, which includes opening the lid portion by tearing or breaking the second weak line. Example 11: - Methods according to Examples 10 and 4, which include opening the lid portion by tearing or breaking the first and second weak lines. Example 12: - A method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 11, comprising printing a mark relating to a consumer product or the manufacturer of a consumer product onto a second cellulosic layer. Example 13: To form the first layer, or to form the outer wrapper, o Styrene and acrylic acid ester copolymer, o Styrene and butadiene copolymer, o Ethylene and vinyl acetate copolymer, o Ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid copolymer, o Ethylene and one or more polymers or copolymers of propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, A method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 12, comprising forming a moisture-proof barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion consisting of wax. Example 14: To form the first layer, or to form the outer wrapper, - Ethylene copolymer, - Methacrylic acid copolymers, and - A method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 13, comprising forming a heat-sealable layer from one or more emulsions or dispersions of copolymers of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid esters. Example 15: A container for consumer goods, and the container is - A package comprising a box portion and a lid portion, defining a housing for consumer goods, wherein the lid portion is hinged to the box portion by a hinge line, and an opening line separates the box portion and the lid portion outside the hinge line, and the box portion and the lid portion are o The first cellulose layer, A package formed by folding a first multilayer blank, which includes a first polymer layer provided on the outside of a first cellulosic layer, - An outer wrapper that is wrapped and sealed on the package and at least partially covers the opening line, o Second cellulosic layer, o comprising an outer wrapper, which includes a second polymer layer provided inside the second cellulosic layer, - A container in which one of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer, and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer. Example 16: The container according to Example 15 includes an opening line and a first weak line. Example 17: The outer wrapper is a container according to Example 15 or 16, comprising a third polymer layer. Example 18: The container according to Example 17 has a third polymer layer located inside the second polymer layer. Example 19: The third polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer, in the container according to Example 17 or 18. Example 20: The outer wrapper includes a second weak line formed on a portion of the outer wrapper that covers the opening line, in a container according to one or more of Examples 15-19. Example 21: A container according to Example 20, or a method according to Example 6, wherein the second cellulosic layer has the first thickness, and the second weak line comprises an etched line having a depth of 80 percent or less of the first thickness. Example 22: The moisture barrier layer is - Styrene and acrylic acid ester copolymers, - Styrene and butadiene copolymer, - Ethylene and vinyl acetate copolymer, - Ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid copolymer, - Ethylene and one or more polymers or copolymers of propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, A container comprising wax and one or more of Examples 15-21. Example 23: The wax is a container according to Example 22, comprising paraffin, microcrystalline wax, or hydrocarbon wax. Example 24: The wax content is 5 percent to 15 percent by weight relative to the weight of the polymer or copolymer, in the container according to Example 22 or 23 or by the method according to Example 13. Example 25: The heat-sealable layer is - Ethylene, - Acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, and - A container according to one or more of Examples 15 to 24, comprising one or more copolymers of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid esters. Example 26: The first cellulose layer is a container having a basis weight of 180 grams / m² to 270 grams / m², prepared by one or more of the methods in Examples 1 to 14, or by one or more of the methods in Examples 15 to 25. Example 27: The second paper material is a container having a basis weight of 40 grams / m² to 60 grams / m², prepared by one or more of Examples 1 to 14, or by one or more of Claims 15 to 28. Example 28: The first polymer layer is a container having a basis weight of 4 grams / m² to 10 grams / m², prepared by one or more of the methods in Examples 1 to 14, or by one or more of the methods in Examples 15 to 27. Example 29: The third polymer layer is a container having a basis weight of 4 grams / m² to 10 grams / m², prepared by one or more of the methods in Examples 1 to 14, or by one or more of the methods in Examples 15 to 28. Example 30: The second polymer layer is a container having a basis weight of 5 grams / m² to 12 grams / m², prepared by one or more of the methods in Examples 1 to 14, or by one or more of the methods in Examples 15 to 29. Example 31: The heat-sealable layer is a container having a melting point of less than 100 degrees Celsius as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), as determined by one or more methods from Examples 1 to 14, or one or more methods from Examples 15 to 30. Example 32: A heat-sealable layer having a melt flow index of more than 100 grams / min at 190 degrees Celsius and a pressurization of 2.16 kilograms (kg), as a container by one or more methods from Examples 1 to 14, or one or more methods from Examples 15 to 31.
[0138] Here, we will further describe the examples with reference to the following figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0139] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the components of the container according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view of the elements of the container components shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an enlarged side view of the elements of the components shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of an element of another component of the container according to the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an enlarged side view of the element in Figure 2. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the process for realizing the container shown in Figure 1. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a graph showing a comparative test between the container of the present invention and the container of the prior art under the first condition. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a graph showing a comparative test between the container of the present invention and the container of the prior art under the first condition. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic enlargement of the details of Figure 6. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a schematic enlargement of the details of Figure 7. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0140] Figure 1 shows a package 10 according to the present invention. The package 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a box portion 14 and a lid portion 16. The parallelepiped defines a rear wall 21, a front wall 22, a left side wall 23, a right side wall 24, a bottom wall 25, and an upper wall 26.
[0141] The lid portion 16 is hinged around a hinge line 17 that extends across the rear wall of the parallelepiped, and is pivotable between an open position (shown in Figure 1) and a closed position. Furthermore, the package 10 defines a housing or internal volume 18 for containing, for example, a group of aerosol-generating articles (not shown in the drawings). When the package 10 is closed, the lid portion 16 and the box portion 14 define an opening line 19, which is a dividing line between the lid portion and the box portion. The opening line 19 is a geometric continuation of the hinge line 17. The opening line 19 is formed on the left wall 23, the right wall 24, and the front wall 22.
[0142] In different embodiments (not shown), the opening line is not a cut but, for example, a perforation, and therefore the package cannot be opened (i.e., the lid portion 16 cannot rotate around the hinge line unless the opening line is broken).
[0143] Package 10 is formed from a sheet blank 100 shown in Figures 2 and 3. As shown in the side view of Figure 3, the sheet blank 100 includes a first cellulosic layer 30 containing a cellulosic material and a first polymer layer 31 having heat-seal properties, or moisture-proof barrier properties, or both. The first polymer layer 31 is provided on the outside of the first cellulosic layer 30. More specifically, the first cellulosic layer 30 is formed from a sheet of paper-based material. The first polymer layer is preferably a heat-sealable layer. The first cellulosic layer 30 preferably has a weight of 180 gsm to 270 gsm. The first polymer layer 31 preferably has a weight of 4 gsm to 10 gsm.
[0144] The sheet blank 100 is folded such that the first cellulose layer 30 becomes the inner layer of the package 10 and the first polymer layer 31 becomes the outer layer.
[0145] The package 10, formed by properly folding the sheet blank 100, is then wrapped using an outer wrapper to form a container 1 (shown in Figure 13) for containing consumer goods (not shown) to contain the aerosol-generating article.
[0146] The outer wrapper is formed from a sheet blank 101 shown in Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figure 5, the sheet blank 101 includes a second cellulosic layer 40 containing a second cellulose material, a second polymer layer 41 having either heat-seal properties or moisture-proof barrier properties, or both, and a third polymer layer 42 having heat-seal properties or moisture-proof barrier properties, or both. The second polymer layer 41 is provided on the inside of the second cellulosic layer 40. The third polymer layer 42 is provided on the inside of the second polymer layer 41. More specifically, the second cellulosic layer 40 is formed from a sheet of paper-based material. Preferably, the third polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture-proof barrier layer. Preferably, the second cellulosic layer 40 has a weight of 40 gsm to 60 gsm. Preferably, the third polymer layer has a weight of 4 gsm to 10 gsm. Preferably, the second polymer layer has a weight of 6 gsm to 12 gsm. The thickness of the second cellulose layer is preferably 30 micrometers to 50 micrometers.
[0147] To form container 1, an outer wrapper formed by a blank sheet 101 is wrapped around package 10, as shown in Figures 6-13.
[0148] First, a second weak line 45 is formed on the blank sheet 101. Once the second weak line 45 is formed on the blank sheet 101 and the black sheet 101 is wrapped around the package 10, the second weak line 45 coincides with the opening line 19, as can be seen in Figures 11-13.
[0149] The second weak line 45 may be manufactured using a laser scoring process or partial mechanical cutting of paper over its thickness without damaging the sealing layer and the moisture barrier layer.
[0150] A second weak line 45 is formed on the second cellulosic layer 40. Scoring is performed on the side surface of the second cellulosic layer 40, which forms the outer surface of the container 1. The depth of scoring is controlled so as not to affect the moisture barrier properties of the second polymer layer 41.
[0151] Considering the scoring tolerances for both laser and mechanical processes, and the need for good functionality (ease of opening), the scoring depth is preferably 50 to 80 percent of the thickness of the second cellulosic layer. A 1000-watt CO2 laser may be used for laser scoring. Laser beam control may be performed via a scanner. The process may be reel-to-reel at a speed of 200 meters / minute.
[0152] For mechanical scoring, a rotary cutting unit may be used. The operation is carried out by inserting a second cellulosic layer between the knife and the blind counter roller of the cutting unit. The distance between the knife and the counter roller is 15 to 30 micrometers, depending on the substrate.
[0153] The outer wrapper sheet blank 101 is placed in contact with the right side wall 24 of the package 10 (see Figure 6). The sheet blank 101 is positioned so that the third polymer layer 42 is in contact with the first polymer layer on the right side wall 24. Thus, the third polymer layer 42 is the inner layer of the outer wrapper, and the second cellulosic layer 40 is the outer layer of the outer wrapper.
[0154] An enlarged view of Figure 16 shows how the blank 101 is applied to the package 10 to bring the blank into contact with the package. Two folds 102 and 103 are formed within the sheet blank 101 and correspond to the positions of two corners 27 and 28 formed between the rear wall 21 and the right side wall 24, and between the front wall 22 and the right side wall 24, respectively. This is shown in Figure 7. Next, the sheet blank 101 is compressed against the side walls 24 as indicated by the arrows at the entrance in Figure 17.
[0155] Next, the blank sheet 101 is folded along two folds 102 and 103 so that the front wall 22 and rear wall 21 of the package 10 also come into contact with the outer wrapper. This is shown in Figure 8.
[0156] Next, the package 10 is preferably rearranged to facilitate packaging, for example, the left side wall 23 may face upward as shown in Figure 9.
[0157] Next, two additional folds are formed in the sheet blank 101, with folds 104 and 105 corresponding to the positions of two corners 29 and 51 formed between the rear wall 21 and the left wall 23, and between the front wall 22 and the left wall 23, respectively. Next, the sheet blank 101 is folded along the two folds 104 and 105, and the two opposing flaps of the sheet blank overlap on the left wall 23. This is shown in Figure 10. In this way, the panels of the sheet blank 101 are formed on the left wall 23, right wall 24, front wall 22 and rear wall 21 of the package 10. In this way, the entire opening line 19 and hinge line 17 are covered by the outer wrapper.
[0158] Next, the package 10 and the outer wrapper are preferably reoriented so that the front wall 22 faces upward, as shown in Figure 11.
[0159] Next, the sheet blank 101 is folded in a known manner to cover the top wall 26 and bottom wall 25 of the package 10. This is shown in Figures 12 and 13. In Figure 13, the entire package 10 is covered by an outer wrapper, which forms panels on each wall of the package 10. The second weak line 45 is located coinciding with the opening line 19 located below it.
[0160] Heat and pressure are applied to secure and bond the outer wrapper to package 10. For example, a temperature of 110 degrees Celsius and 1 Newton / cm² (N / cm²). 2 The pressure is applied for 100 milliseconds. These conditions provide a satisfactory seal and high adhesion. [Examples]
[0161] Example 1: Outer wrapper A first embodiment of the sheet blank 101 is given.
[0162] The second cellulose layer 40 is a 45gsm paper layer.
[0163] A rod coater is used to coat 45gsm paper with a 10gsm wax-modified styrene-acrylic dispersion to form a second polymer layer 41.
[0164] The dispersion used is supplied by Trueb Chemie under the trade name TB16. This dispersion is diluted with water to obtain a solids content of 40 percent.
[0165] The coating is dried in a convection oven at a temperature not exceeding 90 degrees Celsius to form a sheet blank 101.
[0166] Instead of TB16, a dispersion consisting of paraffin wax having a melting point of 60 degrees Celsius (°C) and styrene-acrylate latex obtained from the emulsion polymerization of styrene, butyl acrylate, ethyl hexyl methacrylate, and acrylic acid can be used as the second polymer layer. A preferred copolymer contains 60-80 mol% styrene and up to 20% acrylic acid ester.
[0167] Paraffin wax can be added during emulsion polymerization or to a pre-prepared emulsion, with a typical wax content of 10 percent. Since a high wax content can result in an unstable dispersion, it is preferable that the wax content be less than 15 percent relative to the polymer content.
[0168] The resulting coated cardboard has a moisture permeability of 20-30 g / m² / atm / day, measured at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 RH according to ASTM F3299.
[0169] Example 2: Outer wrapper Prepare the sheet blank 101 of Example 1.
[0170] To enhance sealing and barrier properties, an additional 4-5 gsm coating layer is applied to the second polymer layer. This coating is a third polymer layer, formed from a dispersion of low molecular weight ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (Primacor 5980I). This coating is applied from an aqueous dispersion consisting of Primacor 5980I and 10 wt percent wax (relative to Primacor 5980I). The dispersion used had a solids content of 35 percent.
[0171] The resulting multilayer structure, comprising a second cellulosic layer, a second polymer layer, and a third polymer layer, is dried in a convection oven at 80 degrees Celsius.
[0172] Example 3: Outer wrapper A 45gsm calendered paper is coated with a second polymer layer material of 10gsm, as described below, as a second cellulose layer.
[0173] A wax-modified styrene-acrylic dispersion is formed as described in Example 1.
[0174] Inorganic pigments such as kaolin, vermiculite, and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) are added to this dispersion until a pigment / polymer dispersion with a weight ratio of 50 / 50 is reached. The inorganic pigments can improve the moisture barrier properties of the polymer layer thus formed.
[0175] Water is added to maintain the total solid content of the resulting dispersion at less than 55% by weight.
[0176] The resulting coated paper, formed by the second cellulose layer and the second polymer layer, has a moisture permeability of 20-35 g / m² / atm / day, measured at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 RH according to ASTM F3299.
[0177] To enhance sealing and barrier properties, an additional 4-5 gsm sealing coating layer is applied. This coating, as a third polymer layer, is described in Example 2.
[0178] The blank sheet 101 according to Examples 2-3 may have brand information, health warnings, and designs printed on the uncoated surface of the second cellulose layer.
[0179] The second cellulose layer is laser-scored to allow for easy opening and tamper-evident removal. The laser scoring (etching) should not cut beyond 80 percent of the thickness of the second cellulose layer, and care must be taken to avoid damage to the moisture barrier and sealing layer.
[0180] Example 4: First Multilayer Cardboard with a thickness of 180-270 gsm is used as the first cellulose layer.
[0181] A 180-270 gsm cardboard is coated with a 10 gsm wax-modified styrene-acrylic dispersion on the surface intended for the outside of the package, forming a first polymer layer. This dispersion is formed as described in Example 1.
[0182] This sheet blank 100 may be lacquered according to standard techniques in the field of cigarette packaging. Standard lacquering is a coating with a polymer layer that does not have heat-sealing or moisture-proof barrier properties. The basis weight of the standard lacquer layer is less than 4 gsm.
[0183] The resulting multilayer has a moisture permeability of 10-20 g / m² / day, measured at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 RH according to ASTM F3299.
[0184] Example 5: First Multilayer Cardboard with a thickness of 180-220 gsm is used as the first cellulose layer.
[0185] Cardboard with a thickness of 180-220 gsm is coated with a 10 gsm wax-modified styrene-acrylic dispersion, as realized according to Example 1, to form a first polymer layer.
[0186] The resulting multilayer material has a water permeability of 10–20 g / m² / atm / day, measured at 38 degrees Celsius and 90 RH according to ASTM F3299.
[0187] To enhance sealing and barrier properties, an additional 4-5 gsm coating layer was applied, containing a dispersion of low molecular weight ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (Primaco 5980I, manufactured by SK Chemicals). This coating was applied from an aqueous dispersion of the same 10 wt% wax (relative to Primaco 5980I). The dispersion used had a solid content of 35%. This fourth polymer layer was applied to the first polymer layer.
[0188] Preferred polymers from which an aqueous dispersion is prepared to form a first polymer layer, a third polymer layer, or both having heat-seal properties are: [Table 1]
[0189] Preferred polymers for which an aqueous dispersion is prepared to form a second polymer layer having moisture-proof barrier properties are: JPEG2023534177000003.jpg44170
[0190] These polymers are combined with wax.
[0191] Comparative Example The following comparative examples were given to compare the performance of container 1 according to the present invention:
[0192] Comparative container A (BOPP film): A hinged lid package for 20 cigarettes, made from lacquered 180-270 gsm cardboard and wrapped in 16-micron BOPP film. Container A is represented by the dashed lines in Figures 14 and 15.
[0193] Comparison container B (without film): A 20-cigarette hinged-lid package made of lacquered 180-270gsm cardboard, without wrapping film (no barrier). Container B is represented by the dotted line in Figures 14 and 15.
[0194] The container (paper barrier) of the present invention: A package of 20 cigarettes was prepared using a hinged lid package made from the sheet blank 100 of Example 4 and wrapped in the sheet blank 101 realized in Example 2. This container C is represented by the solid lines in Figures 14 and 15.
[0195] Containers A and B, as well as container C, of the present invention were placed in an artificial climate chamber to simulate extreme environmental conditions (referred to as jungle and desert in the drawings and hereafter), and moisture intake or loss was monitored via oven volatilization.
[0196] The graphs in Figures 14 and 15 show that the container according to the present invention has similar moisture absorption or loss as comparative container A (a cigarette packaged in BOPP film).
[0197] Oven volatilization (OV in the diagram) was measured according to Method: Determination of Moisture Content (Oven Volatiles) of Tobacco and Tobacco Products, CORESTA Recommended Method No. 76 (published in July 2017 https: / / www.coresta.org / sites / default / files / technical_documents / main / CRM_76-July2017).
[0198] The results are shown in Figures 14 and 15.
[0199] In Figure 14, the "jungle" condition is applied. Containers A, B, and C of the present invention are maintained at a temperature of 32 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 85%. In container B, the moisture inside the container increases immediately. Containers A and C of the present invention exhibit very similar behavior, as shown by the solid and dashed lines, i.e., oven volatilization increases slowly within 90 days.
[0200] In Figure 15, the "desert" condition is applied. Containers A, B, and the container of the present invention are maintained at a temperature of 43 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 15%. In container B, the moisture inside the container disappears immediately. Containers A and the container of the present invention exhibit very similar behavior, as shown by the solid and dashed lines, i.e., oven volatilization decreases slowly within 90 days.
[0201] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 10 percent. In this context, the number A may be considered to include a number that falls within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic represented by the number A. In some cases as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation does not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics(s) of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.
Claims
1. 1. A method of making a container for a consumer product, comprising: forming a first multilayer, said first multilayer comprising a first cellulosic layer and a first polymeric layer; - folding the first multilayer to form a package including a lid portion and a box portion, the box portion and the lid portion being divided by a tear line, the lid portion being hinged to the box portion, the package defining a housing for the consumer good, the first multilayer being folded such that the first polymeric layer is provided on an exterior of the first cellulosic layer; forming an outer wrapper, said outer wrapper comprising a second cellulosic layer and a second polymeric layer; one of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer; - wrapping the package with the outer wrapper, the outer wrapper at least partially covering the tear line, the wrapping being performed such that the second polymeric layer is provided on the inside of the second cellulosic layer; - heating the package and the outer wrapper and sealing the outer wrapper onto the package to form the container.
2. the first cellulosic layer defining an inner surface and an outer surface to form a first multi-layer; The method of claim 1, comprising coating the outer surface of the first cellulosic layer with the first polymer layer.
3. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein forming the outer wrapper comprises forming an outer wrapper comprising a third polymer layer.
4. the second cellulosic layer defining an inner surface and an outer surface, and the first polymeric layer being a heat-sealable layer and forming the outer wrapper; - coating the inner surface of the second cellulosic layer with the second polymer layer; - coating the inner surface of said second polymer layer with said third polymer layer.
5. A method according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, comprising forming a second line of weakness on a portion of the outer wrapper covering the tear line.
6. forming the first multilayer or forming the outer wrapper; o copolymers of styrene and acrylic esters; o copolymers of styrene and butadiene; o copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetate, Copolymers of ethylene and acrylic or methacrylic acid, o one or more polymers or copolymers of ethylene with propylene, 1-butene, isobutene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene; 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising forming the moisture barrier layer from an emulsion or dispersion consisting of a wax.
7. forming the first multilayer or forming the outer wrapper; copolymers of ethylene, - copolymers of methacrylic acid, and The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising forming said heat-sealable layer from an emulsion or dispersion of one or more of: a copolymer of an ester of acrylic or methacrylic acid.
8. 1. A container for a consumer good, comprising: a package comprising a box portion and a lid portion, said package defining a housing for said consumer good, said lid portion being hinged to said box portion by a hinge line, a tear line separating said box portion and said lid portion being separate from said hinge line, said box portion and said lid portion being: o a first cellulosic layer; and a first polymeric layer provided on an exterior of the first cellulosic layer; and an outer wrapper wrapped and sealed onto the package and at least partially covering the tear line, the outer wrapper comprising: o a second cellulosic layer; and o a second polymeric layer provided on an interior side of the second cellulosic layer; A container, wherein one of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer and the other of the first polymer layer and the second polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer.
9. The container of claim 8 , wherein the outer wrapper comprises a third polymeric layer.
10. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the third polymer layer is a heat-sealable layer.
11. Container according to one or more of claims 8 to 10, wherein the outer wrapper includes a second line of weakness formed on a portion of the outer wrapper that covers the tear line.
12. 12. The method of one or more of claims 1 to 7 or the container of one or more of claims 8 to 11, wherein the first cellulosic layer has a basis weight comprised between 180 grams per square meter and 270 grams per square meter.
13. 13. The method of one or more of claims 1 to 7 or the container of one or more of claims 8 to 12, wherein the second cellulosic layer has a basis weight comprised between 40 grams per square meter and 60 grams per square meter.
14. 14. The method of one or more of claims 1 to 7 or the container of one or more of claims 8 to 13, wherein the first polymer layer or the third polymer layer has a basis weight comprised between 4 grams per square meter and 6 grams per square meter, or the second polymer layer has a basis weight comprised between 5 grams per square meter and 12 grams per square meter.