Collapsible beverage tank and method of manufacture

Abstract

A collapsible beverage tank and method of manufacture thereof, the beverage tank being made from a polymer composition comprising virgin polyethylene terephthalate (vPET), recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), and a scavenging additive configured to prevent O2 ingress and CO2 loss. The rPET is present in the polymer composition at 35 wt% to 70 wt% (more preferably 50 wt%). The polymer composition may also comprise rPET pellets and / or rPET flakes (preferably in equal amounts). The scavenging additive is a non-nylon containing scavenging additive specifically made for use with MXD6 nylon or rPET, preferably present at 4 wt% to 6 wt%. The beverage tank is a monolayer container, the method of manufacture thereof comprising stretch blow molding a preform prepared by injection blow molding or extrusion blow molding.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to collapsible beverage tanks for carbonated beverages, and more particularly to polymer compositions for use in preforms for collapsible beverage tanks and methods of making the collapsible beverage tanks.

[0002] Beverage dispensing systems are commonly used in beverage serving establishments to efficiently dispense large quantities of beverages, including carbonated alcoholic beverages such as draft beer and cider, non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks, and non-carbonated beverages such as wine and fruit juice. Beverage dispensing systems have traditionally been used by commercial users in establishments such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. However, there is a growing demand from private users for beverage dispensing systems, such as draft units with interchangeable beer kegs, for use in the home as well.

[0003] Conventional beverage dispensing systems operate with rigid beverage tanks made from materials such as glass, plastic, and metal. When dispensing the beverage, gas may be injected into the container to replace the expelled beverage to equalize pressure and aid dispensing. The gas is injected at high pressure and acts to push the beverage out. Such a principle is typical of existing beer dispensers.

[0004] For the supply of relatively large quantities of beverages, on the order of tens of litres, used in beverage dispensing systems, it is known to use refillable steel containers for carbonated beverages such as beer, and sturdy refillable or recyclable plastic containers for water dispensers. These types of beverage tanks have the disadvantages of being expensive to manufacture, requiring inventory for the beverage supplier, and requiring a large storage volume for the end user after they have been emptied and before they can be reused. Stainless steel kegs have further disadvantages, including their weight, which makes them difficult to handle both manually and for transportation costs, their considerable weight, which is problematic from the perspective of safety, the high cost of metal kegs, and their high value as "scrap metal", making them prone to theft.

[0005] In an attempt to address one or more of the above problems, there has been a trend towards using high impact polymers, typically polyethylene and polypropylene, which are thermoplastic materials that are easily injection or blow molded. In particular, polymer resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are widely used due to their advantageous properties such as toughness, transparency, good barrier properties, light weight, design flexibility, chemical resistance, and good shelf life performance. Furthermore, PET is often recyclable, making it environmentally friendly. These properties of PET have made it a popular material in the manufacture of beverage tanks.

[0006] Traditionally, filling non-carbonated or low-carbonated beverages into plastic beverage tanks has required the use of relatively thick containers to ensure manageability and stability, such as preventing the container from collapsing during handling. However, thick containers increase manufacturing and transportation costs, and require large resources in terms of storage and disposal systems.

[0007] WO00 / 78665 discloses a beer container or keg with an inner hollow shell of blow-molded PET and a rigid outer hollow shell of molded high density polyethylene surrounding and supporting the inner shell. This solution addresses the problems associated with steel containers, but still only provides a partial solution as the containers remain a relatively expensive and elaborate construction, and also require a large amount of storage space at the end consumer's site.

[0008] Novel dispensers such as the DraughtMaster system manufactured by the applicant and described in WO2007 / 019848, WO2007 / 019849, WO2007 / 019850, WO2007 / 019851 and WO2007 / 019853 avoid the above problems by using a beverage tank made of a thermoplastic material that can be collapsed during beverage dispensing by high pressure air. A collapsible beverage tank is typically made of a thin, flexible thermoplastic material and may be in the form of a plastic bag. A beverage dispensing system using a collapsible beverage tank allows the container to be placed or positioned in a pressure chamber. During the dispensing operation, the applied pressure causes the beverage to flow from the keg containing the beverage into the beverage pipe. In such dispensers, the beverage is dispensed without contact with air, so no low pressure is generated and therefore no gas needs to be injected into the beverage tank itself.

[0009] One drawback of the above system is that the need to be able to crush requires a relatively thin beverage tank. There is an obvious risk of such a thin container bursting during transportation of the beverage tank or during dispensing by squeezing the beverage tank. If the beverage tank bursts, the beverage may leak out of the container and cause damage to external equipment or devices.

[0010] Another drawback associated with this technology is the lack of a barrier to CO2 and O2 in the container walls, and to certain wavelengths of light, which can rapidly deteriorate the taste of the beverage, especially when the container is used to hold carbonated beverages. In particular, PET is gas permeable, and if used to hold carbonated beverages, the side walls of PET containers must be thicker than a certain minimum size for the bottle to meet industry standards for carbon dioxide retention levels. For example, the "best before" date for a carbonated beverage bottle is the number of weeks until the beverage loses 15% of its original carbonation level when stored at room temperature. A major US carbonated beverage manufacturer has a requirement for a 16-week best before date when using PET beverage tanks of 1 liter or larger to package carbonated beverages.

[0011] To solve this problem, metal or glass containers have traditionally been used to achieve adequate barrier and mechanical properties. However, the use of metal or glass containers is disadvantageous for the reasons mentioned above, and may even be impossible for some dispensers. To be able to combine the advantages of a rigid metal or glass container with those of a crushable container, it has been proposed to use barrier layers, such as CO2 barriers or O2 barriers, in the walls of thermoplastic beverage tanks, thus extending the shelf life of the beverages contained therein. However, these barrier layers are usually used in multi-layer laminate containers, where the bottle consists of at least one layer made of PET and another layer made of a material such as nylon, which has very low gas permeability.

[0012] This solution still has some drawbacks, such as complex and expensive manufacturing, as well as low flexibility against stresses induced by internal pressure and temperature changes.

[0013] Furthermore, there is an emerging need to increase the environmental sustainability of beverage tank manufacturing, and in particular the recyclability of containers made from thermoplastic materials, such that nylon and similar barrier materials are gradually being replaced by nylon-free scavengers, and beverage tanks are being designed to be chemically or mechanically highly recyclable and manufactured, at least in part, by reusing materials reclaimed from discarded containers.

[0014] Therefore, there is a need for a solution that can manufacture collapsible beverage tanks suitable for carbonated beverages, which have relatively thin walls to reduce material needs and waste pollution as much as possible, have a sufficiently long shelf life, meet industry standards and safety requirements (e.g., have no detectable taste, remain flexible, do not burst when pressurized from the inside and outside), and are more environmentally friendly than conventional plastic beverage tanks, both in terms of production (less non-recycled material used, less energy consumption) and disposal (higher recyclability). Abstract

[0015] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide an improved beverage tank that addresses the above problems and obviates at least some of the limitations of the prior art with respect to polymer compositions used in beverage tanks, particularly PET containers.

[0016] These and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementations will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0017] According to a first aspect, there is provided a collapsible beverage tank comprising a polymer composition, the polymer composition comprising: a first polymer consisting of virgin polyethylene terephthalate; a second polymer comprising recycled polyethylene terephthalate; A scavenging additive designed to prevent O2 ingress and CO2 loss; The second polymer is present in the polymer composition in an amount of 35 wt% to 70 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank.

[0018] Surprisingly, it has been found that beverage tanks using these specific amounts of virgin and recycled PET with scavenging additives provide good CO2 and O2 barriers while having the flexibility to expand and contract to a certain limit without losing elasticity when pressure and / or temperature are increased (e.g., up to 3 bar when the container is pressed to dispense the beverage), in contrast to polymer compositions using amounts of recycled PET different from these specific amounts (ranges). In particular, the barrier of these compositions remains flexible for a longer period (from 30 days to 9 months) to maintain CO2 levels and prevent O2 from entering the container, ensuring beverage quality. This is in contrast to conventional PET beverage tanks, which are generally used for a short period of time.

[0019] Although less robust than containers made entirely from virgin PET, beverage tanks made from these specific compositions are still able to be crushed when emptied, meet required wall thickness specifications, and survive burst tests while retaining their barrier properties. Finally, these compositions still ensure food approval for storing beverages for human consumption, and do not impair the taste of the beverage contained within. The resulting containers may be distributed in large dispenser packages and used by end users to consume beverages such as beer and other carbonated alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This ensures that no additional CO2 comes into contact with the beverage during dispensing, resulting in fresher and longer-lasting beverage quality that is 6-7 times longer than existing steel keg-based dispensers.

[0020] In one implementation of the first approach, the second polymer is present in the polymer composition in an amount of 50 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank. It has been found that using recycled PET in an amount of 50 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank results in a very environmentally friendly and robust polymer composition that meets all the necessary criteria, while also requiring approximately 12% less energy consumption during blow molding to form the container preform compared to conventional manufacturing methods.

[0021] In one implementation of the first approach, the second polymer comprises rPET pellets in an amount between 17.5 wt% and 35 wt% by weight of the beverage tank, preferably 25 wt% by weight of the beverage tank.

[0022] In some embodiments, the rPET pellets are EcoClear E04 100 pellets.

[0023] In one implementation of the first aspect, the second polymer comprises rPET flakes in an amount between 17.5 wt% and 50 wt% by weight of the beverage tank, preferably 25 wt% by weight of the beverage tank.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rPET flakes are EcoClear E04 100 flakes.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rPET is post-consumer food grade rPET that has been recycled by mechanical or chemical methods.

[0026] In some embodiments, the virgin PET is Polyshield resin, more preferably Polyshield 2300 resin.

[0027] In one example implementation of the first approach, the capture additive is present in an amount of 1 wt% to 10 wt% by weight of the beverage tank, more preferably in an amount of 4 wt% to 6 wt% by weight of the beverage tank.

[0028] In some embodiments, the scavenging additive is an active scavenger, while in other embodiments, the scavenging additive is a passive scavenger.

[0029] In one implementation of the first aspect, the scavenging additive is a crystalline thermoplastic polymer, preferably made from m-xylylenediamine. In some embodiments, the scavenging additive is MXD6 nylon.

[0030] In some embodiments, the scavenging additive is MXD6 nylon and is present in an amount of 4.5% by weight of the beverage tank.

[0031] In another possible embodiment, the scavenging additive is MXD6 nylon and is present in an amount of 6% by weight of the beverage tank.

[0032] In one implementation of the first approach, the scavenging additive is a non-nylon based scavenging additive specifically formulated for rPET, such as Amosorb 4020R, Diamond clear, ResiOx, Amosorb Long Shelflife, etc., present in an amount of 4-6 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank, thereby better ensuring compliance with future environmental regulations and further improving the recyclability of the beverage tank.

[0033] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the beverage tank is a single-layer beverage tank.

[0034] In some embodiments, the beverage tank is substantially transparent. The transparent beverage tank may be configured to be shipped in a non-transparent container configured to receive at least one beverage tank. In some embodiments, the non-transparent container is made of cardboard.

[0035] In another embodiment, the beverage tank is non-transparent.

[0036] In one example implementation of the first aspect, the beverage tank has a net fill volume of at least 5 liters, preferably 5-25 liters, more preferably 10-20 liters.

[0037] In one example of an implementation form of the first approach, the beverage tank has a cylindrical neck having an opening for filling and dispensing the beverage, a circular bottom, and a body portion between the neck and the bottom and having a diameter larger than the diameter of the neck.

[0038] In some embodiments, the body has a pressure vessel shape with a cylindrical middle section, a dome-shaped base connecting to the bottom, and a dome-shaped shoulder connecting to the neck.

[0039] In some embodiments, the base has an inwardly projecting dome-shaped recess.

[0040] In some embodiments, the beverage tank has a net filling volume of 20 litres and a length L in the range L=550-578mm (preferably Lb=560mm) and a diameter D in the range D=220-250mm (preferably D=235mm).

[0041] In some embodiments, the body of the beverage tank has a length Lb in the range Lb=520-550 mm (preferably Lb=533 mm) and the neck of the beverage tank has a length Ln in the range Ln=20-50 mm (preferably Ln=34 mm).

[0042] In one example of an implementation form of the first approach, the beverage tank has different wall thicknesses at the neck and body, the wall thickness being in the range of Tn=1.2-1.6 mm at the neck and Tb=0.25-0.5 mm at the body, preferably Tb=0.32-0.42 mm.

[0043] In one example of an implementation of the first approach, the body of the beverage tank comprises a neck ring zone extending from the neck towards the bottom, the neck ring zone having a visibly increased thickness relative to the adjacent surface of the body, and the distance between the neck and the outer periphery of the neck ring zone, measured along the surface of the body, is preferably between 10 and 20 mm.

[0044] In some embodiments, the neck comprises at least one (and preferably two) circular rims projecting radially outwardly from a surface of the neck.

[0045] In one example of an implementation form of the first approach, the body of the beverage tank comprises a bottom ring zone extending from the bottom towards the neck, the bottom ring zone having a visibly increased thickness relative to the adjacent surface of the body, the diameter of the bottom ring zone being preferably between 30 and 50 mm.

[0046] In one implementation of the first approach, the beverage tank is configured to have a maximum thermal expansion rate of 2.1%, more preferably 1.5%, measured relative to a maximum diameter and a maximum length of the beverage tank, to ensure that the beverage tank always remains within the constraints of a receptacle, even when exposed to increasing temperatures.

[0047] In one example implementation of the first approach, the beverage tank is configured to expand without losing elasticity even when subjected to an internal pressure of at least 5.8 bar, more preferably at least 6.5 bar and up to 8 bar.

[0048] In one example of an implementation of the first approach, the beverage tank is configured to collapse without losing elasticity even when exposed to external pressure of up to 3.0 bar, preventing the ingress of oxygen and the loss of carbon dioxide.

[0049] In some embodiments, the beverage tank is configured to expand and contract without losing elasticity at least over a temperature range of 5-33°C, more preferably over a temperature range of 0-50°C.

[0050] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method for preparing a preform for a beverage tank, the method comprising: blending a first polymer comprised of virgin polyethylene terephthalate, a second polymer comprised of recycled polyethylene terephthalate, and a scavenging additive into a preform blend; molding the preform blend by injection molding or extrusion blow molding to form the preform; Including, The preform blend comprises 35 wt% to 70 wt% rPET based on the weight of the beverage tank.

[0051] In one example implementation of the second approach, blending the recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) includes blending a combination of rPET pellets and rPET flakes, the combination including rPET pellets in an amount between 17.5 wt% and 35 wt%, preferably 25 wt%, by weight of the beverage tank.

[0052] In one example implementation of the second approach, blending the recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) includes blending a combination of rPET pellets and rPET flakes, the combination including rPET flakes in an amount between 17.5 wt% and 50 wt%, preferably 25 wt%, by weight of the beverage tank.

[0053] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing a beverage tank for a carbonated beverage, the method comprising: Preparing a preform according to any of the possible embodiments of the second aspect; heating and conditioning the preform to a temperature in the range of 90 to 110°C, more preferably 95 to 105°C; placing the preform into a mold shaped like a beverage tank; biaxially stretching the preform along a first axis and a perpendicular second axis and filling the mold to produce the beverage tank; cooling the manufactured beverage tank; removing the cooled beverage tank from the mold; Includes.

[0054] In some embodiments, the preform is biaxially stretched in the mold using rods to stretch along a first vertical axis and gas blown into the preform to stretch along a second horizontal axis.

[0055] In some embodiments, the beverage tank is cooled with cooling water at 8-12° C. before being removed from the mould.

[0056] In one implementation of the third aspect, the preform has an inner surface and an outer surface, and heating and conditioning the preform includes applying a thermal inversion to achieve a temperature gap between the higher temperature inner surface and the lower temperature outer surface. In some embodiments, the temperature gap is between 5 and 15°C, more preferably between 11 and 13°C, and most preferably 12°C.

[0057] In one example implementation of the third approach, heating and conditioning the preform includes heating the inner surface to a temperature of 100-110°C, more preferably 103-107°C, and most preferably 105°C, and heating the outer surface to a temperature of 90-100°C, more preferably 93-97°C, and most preferably 95°C.

[0058] In one example implementation of the third approach, heating and conditioning the preform includes at least one heating stage and at least one conditioning stage, where in the heating stage both the inner surface temperature and the outer surface temperature are increased, and in the conditioning stage the inner surface temperature stagnates or increases while the outer surface temperature is decreased.

[0059] In some embodiments, heating and conditioning the preform includes a first heating stage, a first conditioning stage, a second heating stage, and a second conditioning stage, the second conditioning stage being terminated when a desired temperature gap is achieved.

[0060] In one example implementation of the third approach, heating and conditioning the preform includes positioning the preform vertically in a heating apparatus, the heating apparatus having at least one set of infrared lamps configured to radiate toward the preform, the at least one set of infrared lamps being positioned along a vertical axis; heating and conditioning the preform further includes rotating the preform in the heating apparatus about a vertical axis of rotation while applying infrared radiation from the at least one set of infrared lamps.

[0061] In one example implementation of the third approach, the heating apparatus includes an interior wall, the interior wall including a non-focusing reflective surface configured to reflect radiation from the infrared lamp.

[0062] In some embodiments, a plurality of the infrared lamps are positioned at different distances from the inner wall.

[0063] In some embodiments, a plurality of said infrared lamps are adapted to emit infrared radiation of different wavelengths.

[0064] In one example implementation of the third approach, heating and conditioning the preform further includes applying cooling within the heating apparatus to avoid crystallization of the exterior surface of the preform.

[0065] In some embodiments, the heating apparatus includes a source of cooling air for providing cooling within the heating apparatus.

[0066] In some embodiments, the preform comprises a preform body and a preform neck, and during heating and conditioning of the preform only the preform body is heated to a temperature range of 95-105°C, and the preform neck is preferably kept at a maximum temperature of 50°C using thermal insulating protection means disposed between the preform neck and the heating means such as the infrared lamp.

[0067] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided the use of a collapsible beverage tank according to any one of the possible embodiments of the first aspect for storing and serving a carbonated beverage, preferably a carbonated alcoholic beverage such as beer.

[0068] In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage comprises 1-10 g / L of CO2, more preferably 5.5 g / L.

[0069] According to another aspect, there is provided a collapsible beverage tank having a container wall, the container wall comprising a polymer composition comprising virgin polyethylene terephthalate (vPET), recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), and a scavenging additive configured to prevent O2 ingress and CO2 loss, the rPET being present in the polymer composition in an amount between 35% and 70% by weight of the container wall, more preferably 50% by weight of the container wall.

[0070] These and other aspects will become more apparent from the examples described below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0071] Various aspects, embodiments and implementations are described in detail below with reference to example embodiments illustrated in the drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a polymer composition according to an example of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a preform for manufacturing a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a heating device for preparing a preform for a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 shows exemplary absorptivity of PET material for various wavelengths of light. [Figure 7] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for manufacturing a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8A-8D illustrate the steps of stretch blow molding a preform to produce a beverage tank according to one example of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates heating and conditioning of a preform for a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a cross-section of a beverage dispensing system having a beverage tank installed according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a cross-section of a beverage dispensing system during dispensing of a beverage from a beverage tank according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 is a technical data sheet showing the characteristics of EcoClear E04 100 for use in beverage tanks according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a technical data sheet showing properties of Polyshield 2300 resin used in beverage tanks according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1 is a technical data sheet showing properties of MX nylon grade S6007 for use in beverage tanks in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 15A and 15B show measured lengths and weights resulting from tests performed on a batch of preforms made according to one example of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B show measured wall thickness dimensions obtained from tests performed on a batch of containers manufactured according to one example of the present disclosure. [Figure 17]17A-17C show additional dimensional measurements obtained from tests performed on batches of containers manufactured according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 18A-18C show additional dimensional measurements obtained from tests performed on batches of containers manufactured according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 19A and 19B show measured burst expansion volumes and burst pressures resulting from tests performed on a batch of containers manufactured according to one example of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 20A and 20B show expanded dimensional measurements obtained from tests performed on a batch of containers manufactured according to one example of the present disclosure. Detailed explanation

[0072] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a polymer composition 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure for producing a collapsible beverage tank 5 as shown in FIG. 3 or a preform 15 for a beverage tank as shown in FIG.

[0073] The polymer composition 1 comprises a "virgin" first polymer 2, i.e. a non-recycled polymer such as virgin polyethylene terephthalate (vPET), and a second polymer 3 from a recycled source such as recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET). The second polymer 3 is present in the polymer composition 1 in an amount ranging from 35 wt% to 70 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank 5. More preferably, the second polymer 3, which is a recycled polymer, is present in the polymer composition 1 in an amount of 50 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank 5, as shown in Figure 1.

[0074] Virgin PET (vPET) is approved by most authorities, including the FDA, as a polymer for use in contact with food. Containers made from vPET are generally clear, thin-walled, lightweight, and capable of withstanding the forces exerted on the container walls by pressurized contents such as carbonated beverages and maintaining their shape. Such vPET resins are also fairly cheap and easy to process.

[0075] The vPET resin can be obtained in the form of a solid, such as a solid polyester resin, and may be prepared and shipped in chip or pellet form.

[0076] In some embodiments, the vPET is a Polyshield resin, more preferably a Polyshield 2300 resin, having the properties shown in FIG.

[0077] In some embodiments, the rPET used in polymer composition 1 is post-consumer (PC) food grade rPET that has been recycled by mechanical or chemical routes. In some embodiments, second polymer 3 comprises rPET that was initially sourced as non-food grade, but that has been processed by methods known in the art to achieve food grade qualities as part of preparing it for incorporation into polymer composition 1.

[0078] It should be noted that PET (virgin PET, rPET) can be recycled, for example, by mechanical, chemical and microbiological routes. Chemical methods involve depolymerization to recover monomers, which can then be repolymerized to obtain recycled fresh polymer. For example, PET or rPET can be depolymerized by hydrolysis, methanolysis, glycerolysis, ammonolysis or aminolysis to obtain recycled terephthalic acid or its diesters and recycled monoethylene glycol. The recycled terephthalic acid or diesters and / or monoethylene glycol may be repolymerized, optionally with the addition of virgin terephthalic acid or diesters and / or monoethylene glycol. Similarly, microbiological methods involve treating a material stream with microorganisms to obtain depolymerized oligomers or monomers, which are then repolymerized, optionally with the addition of some virgin monomer or oligomer.

[0079] The second polymer 3 may comprise rPET pellets and / or rPET flakes. In particular, food-grade rPET pellets (approved for use in food and beverage packaging) are difficult for manufacturers to obtain today due to their fluctuating prices and being a highly demanded material. Therefore, it is advantageous to replace some of the rPET pellets with rPET flakes, which may be more readily available than rPET pellets.

[0080] In certain embodiments, the second polymer 3 comprises EcoClear E04 100 pellets and / or EcoClear E04 100 flakes.

[0081] EcoClear E04 100 is a recycled medium viscosity PET made from 100% post-consumer bottle flakes and can be supplied as pre-crystallized pellets or flakes. EcoClear E04 100 is clear, colorless, has low crystallinity, is approved for direct food contact applications and is suitable for injection molding of preforms and extrusion of sheets. Technical details are given in the technical data sheet in Figure 12.

[0082] In one example, the second polymer 3 may comprise rPET pellets in an amount of 17.5 wt% to 35 wt% by weight of the beverage tank 5, preferably 25 wt% by weight of the beverage tank 5; and / or rPET flakes in an amount of 17.5 wt% to 50 wt% by weight of the beverage tank 5.

[0083] In one example, the second polymer 3 does not include rPET pellets and may only include rPET flakes in an amount of 50 wt % relative to the weight of the beverage tank 5 .

[0084] In some embodiments, the collapsible beverage tank 5 according to the present disclosure is used to store and serve carbonated beverages, preferably carbonated alcoholic beverages such as beer.

[0085] As an example, a carbonated drink may contain 1-10 g / L of CO2, more preferably 5.5 g / L.

[0086] The polymer composition 1 further comprises a scavenging additive 4 to prevent ingress of O2 into the manufactured beverage tank 5 and / or to prevent loss of CO2 from the beverage tank 5 through the container wall manufactured from the polymer composition 1.

[0087] In some embodiments, the scavenging additive 4 is an active scavenger. In other embodiments, the scavenging additive 4 is a passive scavenger.

[0088] In one example, the scavenging additive 4 is present in an amount of 1 wt % to 10 wt % based on the weight of the beverage tank 5, more preferably in an amount of 4 wt % to 6 wt % based on the weight of the beverage tank 5.

[0089] In one example, the scavenging additive 4 is MXD6 nylon (a crystalline polyamide, produced by polycondensation of m-xylylenediamine or MXDA with adipic acid) manufactured by Mitsubishi, present in an amount of 4.5% or 6% by weight of the beverage tank 5. MXD6, or MX nylon grade S6007, is a food grade nylon commonly used to improve barrier performance and is suitable for co-injection stretch blow bottles with PET, monolayer blend bottles with PET, multilayer bottles or containers with PP. Technical details are shown in the technical data sheet in Figure 14. Using a low molecular weight grade of polyamide MXD6 is advantageous as it contributes to increased burst pressure.

[0090] In the alternative, the scavenging additive 4 is a nylon-free scavenging additive 4 specially formulated for use with rPET and is present in an amount of 4-6 wt % based on the weight of the beverage tank 5 .

[0091] In an exemplary embodiment, scavenging additive 4 is ColorMatrix Amosorb 4020R. Amosorb 4020R is a non-nylon based oxygen absorber formulated by Avient that allows use with up to 100% rPET content, improves the aesthetics of recycled packaging in terms of haze and color, and reduces the yellowing effect. Amosorb 4020R shows stable performance at 25%, 50% and 100% rPET content and is compatible with a variety of rPET grades, thus contributing to sustainability.

[0092] An alternative non-nylon containing scavenging additive that can be used is OxyClear barrier resin.

[0093] OxyClear barrier resins are PET-based, single-ply oxygen ingress barrier resins that provide shelf-life protection for up to 24 months. Clear and colored containers using OxyClear barrier resins exhibit the same clarity as standard PET-based containers. OxyClear barrier resins are particularly advantageous for beverage tanks because they have regulatory clearance for food and beverage packaging under certain food types and processing conditions under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the European Union Packaging Directive.

[0094] Additional non-nylon-containing scavenging additives 4 suitable for use with rPET can also be used, and the above examples are intended to be non-exhaustive.

[0095] As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, the beverage tank 5 is a single-layer beverage tank 5.

[0096] In some embodiments, the beverage tank 5 is substantially transparent. The transparent beverage tank 5 may be configured to be stored and transported within a non-transparent container box to protect the container 5 from light exposure, the container box being configured to fit at least one beverage tank 5. In one embodiment, the non-transparent container box is made of cardboard. This allows the containers 5 to be stacked on top of each other, greatly improving efficiency in transport and storage.

[0097] In another embodiment, the beverage tank 5 is non-transparent.

[0098] The beverage tank 5 is typically filled with a reference volume of liquid and sealed. This liquid reference volume is the maximum amount of liquid that may be contained within the container 5 before dispensing. Since a filled and sealed container 5 typically exhibits a headspace (unfilled part or container), the liquid reference volume is typically slightly lower than the container reference volume. The headspace is preferably 0% to 10%, such as 1% to 10% or 1% to 5% of the liquid reference volume. The liquid reference volume may be at least 5 L, preferably 5 to 25 L, more preferably 10 to 20 L, such as 15 L, or such as at least 20 L.

[0099] 2 is a side view of a preform 15 for manufacturing a beverage tank according to one example of the present disclosure. The preform 15 has a preform neck 16 and a preform body 17. The preform neck 16 can function as an inlet or outlet for the manufactured beverage tank 5 and as a receiving end of a stretch rod for a stretch blow molding process for manufacturing the beverage tank 5 from the preform 15, while the preform body 17 functions as an extension that expands to take the shape of the body of the beverage tank 5 during the stretch blow molding process, as will be shown below.

[0100] The preform 15 may be a monolayer preform to obtain a monolayer beverage tank 5. Alternatively, the preform 15 may be a multilayer preform to obtain a multilayer beverage tank 5. For example, the preform 15 may have a layer of vPET and a layer of rPET, preferably as at least partial outer layers.

[0101] 3 is a side view of a collapsible beverage tank 5 according to one example of the present disclosure. As shown, the beverage tank 5 comprises a cylindrical neck 6 having an opening for filling and dispensing beverage, a circular bottom 8, and a body 7 between the neck 6 and the bottom 8, the body 7 having a diameter larger than that of the neck 6.

[0102] In some embodiments, as shown, body 7 has a pressure vessel shape with a cylindrical middle portion 72, a domed bottom portion 73 connecting to base 8, and a domed shoulder portion 71 connecting to neck 6.

[0103] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage tank 5 according to an example of the present disclosure. Dimensions for manufacturing the beverage tank 5 are shown.

[0104] In some embodiments, the beverage tank 5 has a net filling volume of 20 litres and a length L in the range L=550-578mm (preferably Lb=560mm) and a diameter D in the range D=220-250mm (preferably D=235mm).

[0105] In some embodiments, the body 7 of the beverage tank 5 has a length Lb in the range Lb=520-550 mm (preferably Lb=533 mm) and the neck 6 of the beverage tank 5 has a length Ln in the range Ln=20-50 mm (preferably Ln=34 mm).

[0106] As also shown in FIG. 4, the base 8 may have an inwardly protruding dome-shaped depression 9 resulting from the stretch blow molding process.

[0107] Advantageously, the beverage tank 5 has different wall thicknesses for the neck 6 and the body 7. In a particular example, the neck 6 has a wall thickness in the range Tn=1.2-1.6 mm and the body 7 has a wall thickness Tb=0.25-0.5 mm, preferably Tb=0.32-0.42 mm.

[0108] The thickness of the blown container can be controlled by adapting the particular shape and wall thickness of the preform and its stretching parameters for a given container nominal volume. It should be noted that the shape of the preform, such as its length, diameter, bottom shape, etc., together with the neck, determine the weight of the preform and thus the weight of the container.

[0109] In some embodiments, the neck 6 has at least one circular rim 10, preferably two rims 10, protruding radially outward from the surface of the neck 6 and serving as a support for mounting the beverage tank 5 in a beverage dispensing system, such as the system 30 shown in Figures 10-11.

[0110] As further shown in Figure 4, the body 7 of the beverage tank 5 may include a neck ring portion 11 which widens from the neck 6 towards the base 8 and has a visible increased wall thickness relative to the adjacent surfaces of the body 7. This neck ring portion 11 may be inspected for quality approval during manufacture.

[0111] In one example, the distance between the neck 6 and the circumference of the necking region 11 is between 10 and 20 mm, measured along the surface of the body 7. If a manufactured container 5 exhibits a necking region 11 smaller than this, the manufactured container 5 may be rejected, whereas a necking region 11 extending beyond this range may be accepted provided all other parameters meet specification.

[0112] For similar reasons, the body 7 of the beverage tank 5 may further comprise a bottom ring zone 12, widening from the bottom 8 towards the neck 6 and having a visibly increased wall thickness relative to the adjacent surfaces of the body 7, which bottom ring zone 12 may also be inspected for quality approval during manufacture.

[0113] In one example, the diameter of the bottom ring zone 12 is 30-50 mm. If the manufactured container 5 exhibits a bottom ring zone 11 with a smaller or larger diameter, the manufactured container 5 may still be accepted if all other parameters meet specifications. However, if the manufactured container 5 does not exhibit a bottom ring zone 12, it may be rejected.

[0114] As a further possible quality inspection measurement, the centre point of the circular base 8 may also be checked. If the centre point is within 10 mm measured from the geometric central axis it may be accepted, but if this offset is more than 10 mm the manufactured container 5 may be rejected.

[0115] The beverage tank 5 may be manufactured to meet further parameters. In particular, the beverage tank 5 according to one embodiment is configured to have an allowable maximum thermal expansion rate of 2.1%, more preferably a maximum thermal expansion rate of less than 1.5%, measured relative to the maximum diameter (D) and maximum length (L) of the beverage tank 5, as shown for example in FIG. 4.

[0116] Large capacity beverage tanks 5, especially for beverages with high C02 content, require high burst pressures during filling. Breweries may require a safety margin in burst pressure, for example 2-4 bar higher than the C02 pressure in the beverage. For example, the working pressure during beer filling is about 4 bar. Thus, if a safety margin of 2-4 bar is required, these PET containers need to withstand pressures up to 6-8 bar. Furthermore, in some cases, the C02 pressure in the beverage is increased in order to increase the shelf life of the C02-containing material in the large PET containers. Thus, if the C02 pressure in the beverage is high, the final burst pressure of the beverage tank 5 needs to be even higher.

[0117] The beverage tank 5 may therefore be configured to expand under an internal pressure of at least 5.8 bar, more preferably at least 6.5 bar and up to 8 bar without losing elasticity.

[0118] As an example, the beverage tank 5 is configured to collapse without losing elasticity and maintain resistance to O2 intrusion and CO2 loss even when subjected to an external pressure of up to 3.0 bar when dispensing a beverage in a beverage dispensing system such as that shown in Figure 11.

[0119] As an example, the beverage tank 5 is configured to expand and contract at least within a temperature range of 5 to 33°C, and more preferably within a temperature range of 0 to 50°C, without losing elasticity.

[0120] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heating device 22 for making a preform 15 for a beverage tank 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Certain steps shown in Figure 5 may be part of a manufacturing method for making the preform 15 and / or a method for manufacturing a beverage tank 5, as shown in Figure 7. Note that Figure 7 illustrates a method for manufacturing a beverage tank 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] Most of the advantageous physical properties of PET are only apparent when the resin is stretch-molded into a biaxially oriented state. Most PET bottles produced for carbonated beverages are produced by first forming a PET preform by an injection molding process and secondly transforming the preform into the final desired shape. While most PET containers employ different equipment for each of these two manufacturing steps, many biaxially oriented PET bottles are formed on one machine with multiple positions or stations. Some PET containers that do not require high mechanical properties are produced by conventional injection blow molding and have little molecular orientation. The following steps illustrate an example of the production of a beverage tank 5 according to the present disclosure, where the preform 15 may be prepared separately in a two-stage process and stretch-blow molded in the second stage, or the preform 15 may be prepared on the same machine as the final beverage tank 5.

[0122] 7, preparing a preform 15 for a beverage tank 5 may include an initial step 100 of blending a first polymer 2, such as vPET, a second polymer 3, such as rPET, and a scavenging additive 4 into a preform blend, and a step 101 of molding the preform blend by injection molding or extrusion blow molding to form the preform 15. As mentioned above, the preform blend may include rPET in an amount of 35 wt% to 70 wt% based on the weight of the beverage tank 5.

[0123] The preform may be used to manufacture a beverage tank 5, such as for storing and dispensing carbonated beverages. An additional step for this purpose is also shown in FIG.

[0124] Returning to FIG. 5, according to this method, the preform 15 is first heated in an initial stage 102 and adjusted to a temperature in the range of 90 to 110° C. (more preferably 95 to 105° C.).

[0125] For this purpose, a heating device may be used as shown in Figure 5. In particular, the preform 15 may be arranged vertically in a heating device 22 having at least one set of irradiation means radiating towards the preform 15.

[0126] The irradiating means may irradiate any electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet, visible or infrared, but infrared radiation is advantageously and preferably used, and advantageously includes one or more absorption peak wavelengths within the infrared spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0127] In the example shown, the illumination means is a number of infrared lamps 23 arranged along a vertical axis.

[0128] Once the preform 15 is positioned, it is rotated about a vertical axis of rotation within a heating device 22 while being irradiated with infrared radiation from at least one set of infrared lamps 23 .

[0129] The heating device 22 includes an inner wall 24 that may include a non-focusing reflective surface configured to reflect radiation from the infrared lamps 23, thereby improving the efficiency of irradiation of the preforms 15 within the heating device 22.

[0130] In some embodiments, the multiple infrared lamps 23 of the heating device 22 may be positioned at different distances from the inner wall 24 to accommodate different shapes of the preform 15 or to adjust heating of different areas of the preform 15.

[0131] In some embodiments, the infrared lamps 23 of the heating device 22 may be arranged to emit different wavelengths of infrared radiation so that the irradiation can be further adjusted.

[0132] As mentioned above, FIG. 6 shows exemplary absorptivity of PET material for various wavelengths of light to provide reference for those skilled in the art as to what wavelength configurations may be used to efficiently heat the preform 15.

[0133] 5, the preform 15 has an inner surface 18 and an outer surface 19. In certain embodiments, heating and conditioning (102) the preform 15 includes applying a heat reversal to achieve a temperature gap 20 between the higher temperature inner surface 18 and the lower temperature outer surface 19. In one example, the temperature difference 20 is between 5-15°C, more preferably between 11-13°C.

[0134] In certain embodiments, heating and conditioning the preform 15 includes heating the inner surface 18 to a temperature between 100-110°C, more preferably 103-107°C, and most preferably 105°C, while heating the outer surface 19 to a temperature between 90-100°C, more preferably 93-97°C, and most preferably 95°C.

[0135] To achieve these parameters, a particular sequence of steps may be used, as shown in Figure 9. These steps include at least one heating step 1021 and at least one conditioning step 1022, where during the heating step, both the inner surface 18 temperature (shown by the dotted line on the graph) and the outer surface 19 temperature (shown by the continuous line on the graph) of the preform 15 increase, while during the conditioning step, the inner surface 18 temperature stagnates or increases and the outer surface 19 temperature decreases.

[0136] In the particular embodiment shown, the heating and conditioning of the preform 15 includes a first heating stage 1021, followed by a first conditioning stage 1022, a second heating stage 1023, and finally a second conditioning stage 1024, the second conditioning stage ending when the desired temperature gap 20 is achieved.

[0137] Heating and conditioning the preform 15 may further include applying cooling within the heating device 22 to avoid crystallization of the exterior surface 19 of the preform 15. In some embodiments, the heating device 22 includes a cooling air source 25 for applying cooling within the heating device 22.

[0138] As mentioned above, the preform 15 comprises a preform neck 16 and a preform body 17. Advantageously, during heating and conditioning of the preform 15, only the preform body 17 is heated to a temperature range of 95-105° C., while the preform neck 16 is kept at a maximum temperature of 50° C. This can be achieved, for example, by using thermal insulating protection means 26 arranged between the preform neck 16 and a heating means such as an infrared lamp 23, as shown in FIG.

[0139] After the heating and conditioning step, the preform 15 may be removed from the heating device 22 and in a next step 103, placed in a mold 21 in the shape of a beverage tank 5, as shown in FIG. 8A, for a stretch blow molding process to produce the beverage tank 5. Stretch blow molding is a known process for producing beverage tanks. In this process, the preform 15 is, for example, injection molded and then internally pressurized in a blow mold to form the container 5. The material in the sidewalls of the preform expands during the blow molding process, causing biaxial orientation of the plastic and increasing strength. However, the material in the bottom region of the preform does not expand to the same extent and therefore does not undergo biaxial orientation to a significant degree that would result in an increase in strength. Thus, regardless of the type of material used, the bottom region of the container is inherently weaker than the sidewall regions that form the body.

[0140] After being placed in the mold, the preform 15 is biaxially stretched 104 along a first axis and a perpendicular second axis to fill the mold 21 and produce a beverage tank 5 as shown in Figures 8B-8D, and to orient and align the molecules in the polymer composition 1 of the preform 15. This orientation improves the gas barrier properties, stiffness, transparency and impact strength of the container 5, which may result in a lighter container 5.

[0141] As known from the prior art, the preform 15 may be stretched in the mould 21 using rods to stretch it along a vertical first axis and gas blown into the preform 15 to stretch it along a horizontal second axis.

[0142] Once the stretched preform 15 has been filled into the mould 21, it may be cooled in step 105 before being removed from the mould 21. In one example, the beverage tank 5 is cooled with cooling water at 8-12°C.

[0143] Finally, in a final step 106, the resulting beverage tank 5 is removed from the mould 21 and may be used to store and serve beverages.

[0144] These processes are effective for forming beverage tanks for carbonated drinks, water, wine or beer bottles, especially large containers for carbonated drinks that require relatively high burst pressures (8 bar or even more). The described methods can be used with any of the known processes for manufacturing polyester-based containers.

[0145] 10 illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary beverage dispensing system 30 having a collapsible beverage tank 5 therein, according to one example of the present disclosure. The beverage tank 5 contains a carbonated beverage.

[0146] Carbonated beverages are carbonated malt-based beverages, including, for example, beer and non-alcoholic beer, or cider.

[0147] The beverage dispensing system may include a beverage dispenser assembly 31 and a replaceable collapsible container 5 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In these embodiments, features and features similar to those already described or illustrated are labeled with the same reference numbers as previously used.

[0148] A dispense head for controlling the dispensing of the beverage from the container 5 may be supported by a draft tower, as shown in Figure 10. Alternatively, it may be supportable by the body of the beverage dispensing system (not shown). In this case, instead of using a draft tower, the dispense head may be mounted directly to the housing of the beverage dispensing system, which may hold the beverage tank.

[0149] The illustrated system has a replaceable beverage tank 5 for containing a beverage, the beverage tank 5 having a neck 6 with a beverage outlet. The beverage tank 5 may be recyclable or disposable after replacement of an empty beverage tank 5 with a new beverage tank 5. A beverage pipe 32 extends from the beverage outlet along the rear side of the draft tower to a spout located in the dispense head.

[0150] As further shown in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 10, the body of the beverage dispensing system 30 may comprise a receptacle 33 and a lid 34. The receptacle 33 is designed and shaped to receive at least a portion of the beverage tank 5, preferably a small portion of the beverage tank 5 constituting the neck 6, in an upside-down position. The lid 34 is arranged to cover at least a portion, preferably a large portion, of the beverage tank 5 when the beverage tank 5 is received in the receptacle 33.

[0151] When these two parts are connected together using a pressure-tight connection, preferably a bayonet mount, a pressure-tight sealable enclosure 35 is established that functions as a pressure chamber. The main body housing is preferably made of a pressure-resistant material such as metal or hard plastic. A bayonet mount refers to a fastening mechanism well known in the art consisting of a cylindrical male side with one or more radial pins and a female side receiver with a corresponding L-shaped slot and spring to keep the two parts locked together.

[0152] At the bottom of the receptacle 33, a keg closure space 36 is provided which is designed to accommodate at least a part of the beverage tank 5. The keg closure space 36 may comprise a coupler having a through hole arranged to receive at least one type of neck 6 of the exchangeable beverage tank 5 and to allow the passage of the beverage pipe 32. The coupler thus forms an access point for accessing the beverage outlet of the beverage tank and the beverage contained in the beverage tank. The coupler may be exchangeable in order to adapt the beverage dispensing system to exchangeable or fixed beverage pipes, respectively.

[0153] The neck 6 of a suitable beverage tank 5 may be insertable into the keg closure space 36 and secured to the coupler with a sealed, pressure-tight fit. Preferably, the neck 6 is secured to the coupler by, for example, a screw-type, bayonet-type or similar technique. The neck 6 may itself provide a seal with the corresponding coupler, or alternatively the coupler or the keg closure space 36 may comprise a sealing element which provides a seal with the neck 6. As previously mentioned, the neck 6 may include at least one circular rim 10, preferably two rims 10, projecting radially outwardly from a surface of the neck 6 to act as a support for mounting the beverage tank 5 in the keg closure space 36.

[0154] The beverage tank 5 used in the system 30 can be adapted in shape and volume to the interior space of the housing 35 realised by the receptacle 33 and the lid 34. This allows for mass production of both the beverage tank 5 and the beverage dispensing system 30. The pressure housing of the beverage dispensing system 30 and the corresponding beverage tank 5 may be provided in a variety of sizes.

[0155] The drinking tube 32 as described above may also be provided together with the drinking tank 5 and may be attached as a separate item immediately prior to use, for example using a click connection mechanism. In another embodiment, the drinking tube 32 may also be permanently attached to the drinking tank 5. The drinking tube 32 may be guided through a through hole in the coupler when mounting the drinking tank 5 in the receiver 33.

[0156] The neck 6, as mentioned above, may be sealed against the pressure chamber and may be provided with a rim 10 or a flange in the form of a flange on which the beverage tank 5 rests, and may also be used to transport the beverage tank 5. A closure with a fluid-tight function is fixed to the neck 6 of the beverage tank 5, resulting in a stable and permanent connection. The neck 6 is usually the same for all sizes of kegs, so the only difference in the closure variations is whether an integrated beverage tube, a removable beverage tube or an openable seal is used. Thus, the same standardized closure may be manufactured with a mouth, which may be connected to the standardized neck 6 of the beverage tank 5, which may have different sizes. The closure may receive a coupling part with either an openable seal or an integrated beverage tube. The coupling part may preferably be press-fit or click-fit, but other methods such as threaded fit or welding may also be used.

[0157] FIG. 11 shows a cross-section of a beverage dispensing system 30 during dispensing of a beverage from a collapsible beverage tank 5 according to one example of the present disclosure.

[0158] A pressure inlet (not shown) may be configured to receive and convey the pressure medium to a gap between the outer wall of the beverage tank 5 and the inner wall of the sealed housing 35. The gap is typically made as small as possible, e.g. a few millimeters wide, to allow a tight fit between the beverage tank and the pressure chamber. The pressure inlet may for example form part of the receiver 33 or the lid 34 and may comprise a one-way valve and / or an overpressure relief valve in some embodiments. The pressure medium is typically air, but any fluid such as CO2, N2, water etc. may be used.

[0159] The beverage dispensing system 30 may have a compressor and / or a gas bottle selectively connectable to the pressure inlet to supply pressure medium to the gap. To make the system more modular, the pressure inlet and the beverage dispensing system may be compatible with a variety of pressurization devices. A compressor may be used when either mains or battery power is available and may power the compressor to draw in atmospheric air from outside, pressurize it, and pressurize the pressure chamber by injecting the pressurized air into the pressure chamber gap. A gas bottle may be used when mains power is unavailable and / or when batteries are inconvenient. Gas bottles are pre-filled with pressurized gas, such as air, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide.

[0160] 11, when a pressure medium is injected into the space between the outer wall of the beverage tank 5 and the inner wall of the sealable housing 35, the pressure forces the beverage out of the beverage tank 5 through the beverage pipe 32 and dispenses the beverage via the beverage spout assembly 31. During the dispensing process, the beverage tank 5 may be subjected to a pressure of, for example, up to 3.0 bar, during which the beverage tank 5 gradually collapses as explained above, but maintains its elasticity and resistance to O2 ingress and CO2 loss.

[0161] The applied pressure to dispense the beverage will vary depending on the type of beverage dispensing system, the temperature of the beverage tank 5 and the CO2 level of the dispensed beverage.

[0162] After the beverage tank 5 has been completely collapsed, the lid 34 may be removed and the empty beverage tank 5 replaced with a full beverage tank 5. [Test Results]

[0163] To prove the advantages of the claimed composition in beverage tanks, several tests and implementations have been carried out successfully in several countries, with various blow molding machines, and under various local conditions. In particular, the test results confirmed that the use of rPET (EcoClear) in selected amounts (25%, 35%, 50%, 75%) in combination with virgin PET (Polyshield 2300L) and 6% or 4.5% MxD6 additive, respectively, provides optimal results in the manufacture of beverage tanks, while meeting the requirements set out in the conditions of these tests.

[0164] Physical testing demonstrated that the produced beverage tanks were sufficiently robust and met wall thickness specifications. Burst tests yielded results well above standards, proving that water absorption before bursting was a stable process. Expansion tests confirmed good foaming properties as well as flexibility after temperature shock. In general, the claimed compositions using rPET materials are slightly less robust than compositions using only virgin PET, but are still robust enough to meet the required technical specifications.

[0165] Additionally, it has been determined that the preferred amount of 50% rPET in the composition reduces the energy consumption required to blow mold a 20L bottle by approximately 12%.

[0166] Finally, the barrier and sensory tests were also successful, showing healthy results.

[0167] To gather data, the following extensive tests were conducted:

[0168] The first production tests were carried out on January 19, 2021 on the Fredericia DM line, with approximately 2,000 preforms of the following recipes being produced and analyzed in the dispense lab: · 25% EcoClear - 69% Polyshield 2300L - 6% MxD6 · 25% EcoClear - 70.5% Polyshield2300L - MxD6 4.5% · 35% EcoClear - 59% Polyshield2300L - MxD6 6% · 35% EcoClear - 60.5% Polyshield 2300L - 4.5% MxD6

[0169] On June 7, 2021, a second production test was conducted on the Fredericia DM line, producing and analyzing approximately 2,000 preforms with the following recipe in the dispense lab: · 50% EcoClear - 44% Polyshield 2300L - 6% MxD6 · 50% EcoClear - 45.5% Polyshield2300L - MxD6 4.5% · 70% EcoClear - 44% Polyshield2300L - MxD6 6% · 70% EcoClear - 45.5% Polyshield 2300L - 4.5% MxD6

[0170] The first field tests were carried out on the Carlsberg Varese DM Line on November 30th and December 1st 2021 and analysed in the dispense lab.

[0171] In field tests, approximately 88,000 preforms were produced using the following recipe: · 50%EcoClear - 44%Polyshield2300L - 6%MxD6

[0172] Field testing involved full-scale production of approximately 6,000 kegs to prove the process stability.

[0173] A second field test was carried out on a Carlsberg Varese DM line in the first quarter of 2021 and analysed in the dispense lab.

[0174] In this field test, approximately 88,000 preforms were produced using the following recipe: · 50%EcoClear - 44%Polyshield2300L - 6%MxD6

[0175] For field testing, approximately 60,000 kegs were produced for market approval.

[0176] After the second field run, tests were carried out in the following DM lines over the second and fourth quarters of 2021 and analyzed in the dispense lab: Falkenberg (Sweden), Gjellerasen (Norway), Kereva (Finland), Thessaloniki (Greece), Celarevo (Serbia) and Superbock (Portugal).

[0177] Specifically, the following tests were carried out during this period: Physical Testing: Visual inspection for impurities etc. Transparent appearance Gate crystallinity Drawing dimensions · Weight before molding · Solution intrinsic viscosity Transition Test Visual inspection for impurities etc. Mouthpiece dimensions Full load test Destructive testing Barrier Testing: Expansion test Visual inspection Draft test (including flow and bubbles) CO2 O2 Intrusion Sensory testing: Off-flavor Off-taste Black Spot Specification Verification: Initial test to verify M / C setup / detection Production testing to ensure detection validity Drawing dimensions Visual inspection for impurities etc. Destructive testing

[0178] Figures 15 through 20 show a selection of the results of these tests; the selected results are a non-exhaustive list for the sake of brevity and are focused on selected compositions below. 50% rPET(EcoClear)+44% vPET(Polyshield2300L)+6% additive(MxD6) 50% rPET(EcoClear)+45.5% vPET(Polyshield2300L)+Additive(MxD6)4.5%.

[0179] 15A and 15B show the measured length and weight from tests performed on two batches (N=16x2) of preforms made according to examples of the present disclosure using 6% and 4.5% additive (MxD6) in the composition, respectively. The results show that for both compositions, all dimensions (length and weight) are greater than or equal to the minimum threshold (lsl) and less than the maximum threshold (usl), as shown by the dotted lines.

[0180] 16A-18C show the measured wall thickness, neck ring thickness, neck ring length and bottom ring diameter (mm) for a batch (N=63) of containers manufactured according to examples of the present disclosure, using 6% and 4.5% additive (MxD6) in the composition, respectively. The results shown here cover samples from all developmental trials, field trials 1 and 2, and examples from the indicated countries.

[0181] For reference, FIG. 16B is accompanied by a guide for interpreting the diagrams contained in FIGS. 16 through 18, which provides the following definitions: Lower limit: The minimum value in the data Upper limit: The highest value in the data Median: The median value Lower Quartile: 25% of the data falls below this value · Upper Quartile: The value above which the top 25% of the data resides. · "Whiskers" are used to show the upper and lower quartile variations.

[0182] As a result, all dimensions for both compositions were within the range required for mass production.

[0183] 19A and 19B show measured burst expansion volumes and burst pressures resulting from testing performed on batches (N=50) of containers manufactured according to examples of the present disclosure using 6% and 4.5% additive (MxD6) in the composition, respectively. The results shown cover samples from all developmental tests, field tests 1 and 2, and examples from the indicated countries.

[0184] As shown in the results, all samples were able to withstand an internal pressure of 6.5 bar and met the specifications. The amount of water absorbed before bursting is shown by the grey (bottom) bar and follows the quadratic axis.

[0185] Finally, Figures 20A and 20B show the expansion dimension measurements resulting from tests performed on batches (N=50) of containers manufactured according to examples of the present disclosure using 6% and 4.5% additive (MxD6) in the composition, respectively. The results shown here cover samples from all development tests, field tests 1 and 2, and examples from the countries indicated.

[0186] As shown in the results, all samples met the defined specification of allowing a maximum expansion of 2% (upper dotted line) at a temperature of 35° C. Additionally, all compositions showed good properties of shrinking when cooled again.

[0187] Various ways of thinking and implementation of the invention have been described with some examples. However, upon reviewing the specification, drawings, and claims of this application, a person skilled in the art will understand and be able to embody many variations in addition to the described examples in implementing the claimed invention. The words "comprise", "have", and "include" in the claims do not exclude the presence of elements or steps not recited. The absence of a plurality of elements recited in the claims does not exclude the presence of a plurality of the elements. The functions of several elements recited in the claims may be performed by a single processor or other unit. The fact that several items are recited in separate dependent claims does not exclude them from being implemented in combination, and may be implemented to advantage in combination. The computer program may be stored or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid medium, supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

[0188] Reference signs used in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise noted, the drawings are intended to be read together with the specification and are an integral part of this disclosure. In the specification, the terms "horizontal," "vertical," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and adjectival and adverbial forms thereof (e.g., "horizontally," "rightwardly," "upwardly," etc.) merely refer to the orientation of the structures illustrated in the drawings in the direction of the reader's view. Similarly, the terms "inwardly" and "outwardly" generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to a longitudinal axis or axis of rotation, depending on the context.

Claims

1. 1. A collapsible beverage tank comprising a polymer composition, the polymer composition comprising: a first polymer consisting of virgin polyethylene terephthalate (vPET); a second polymer consisting of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET); ・O ２ Invasion and CO ２ a scavenging additive configured to prevent loss of wherein the second polymer is present in the polymer composition in an amount of from 35 wt % to 70 wt %, based on the weight of the beverage tank.

2. 2. The beverage tank of claim 1, wherein the second polymer is present in the polymer composition in an amount of 50 wt %, based on the weight of the beverage tank.

3. 3. A beverage tank according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the scavenging additive is present in an amount of from 1 wt % to 10 wt % relative to the weight of the beverage tank, more preferably in an amount of from 4 wt % to 6 wt % relative to the weight of the beverage tank.

4. the scavenging additive is a crystalline thermoplastic polymer, the crystalline thermoplastic polymer preferably being made from m-xylylenediamine, such as polyamide MXD6; The scavenging additive is present in an amount of 4.5% or 6% by weight of the beverage tank.

4. A beverage tank according to claim 3.

5. the scavenging additive is a non-nylon based oxygen scavenging polyester concentrate specifically formulated for use with recycled polyethylene terephthalate, preferably ColorMatrix Amosorb 4020R; The supplemental additive is present in an amount of 4 to 6 wt % based on the weight of the beverage tank.

4. A collapsible beverage tank according to claim 3.

6. 6. The beverage tank according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the beverage tank is a single-layer beverage tank.

7. A beverage tank according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage tank has a net fill volume of at least 5 litres, preferably between 5 and 25 litres, more preferably between 10 and 20 litres.

8. a cylindrical neck having an opening for filling and dispensing the beverage; - a circular base; a body portion between said neck portion and said base portion, said body portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of said neck portion; The neck portion and the body portion have different wall thicknesses, and the wall thicknesses are in the neck Tn = 1.2-1.6 mm; In the body, Tb=0.25-0.5 mm, preferably Tb=0.32-0.42 mm; A beverage tank according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the body of the beverage tank includes a neck ring zone extending from the neck towards the base, the neck ring zone being thicker than adjacent surfaces of the body; The distance between the neck and the outer periphery of the neck ring zone, measured along the surface of the body, is preferably between 10 and 20 mm; 9. A beverage tank according to claim 8.

10. the body of the beverage tank comprises a bottom ring zone extending from the bottom towards the neck, the bottom ring zone being thicker than an adjacent surface of the body; The diameter of the bottom ring zone is preferably 30 to 50 mm. A beverage tank according to any one of claims 8 or 9.

11. 11. A beverage tank according to any one of the preceding claims, which is substantially transparent.

12. 12. The beverage tank according to claim 1, having a body in the shape of a pressure vessel, the body having a cylindrical middle portion, a dome-shaped bottom surface portion connected to a circular bottom portion, and a dome-shaped shoulder surface portion connected to a neck portion, the bottom portion having a dome-shaped recess protruding inward.

13. It can be completely crushed without losing its elasticity and can withstand external pressures up to 3.0 bar. ２ Invasion of and CO ２ 13. A beverage tank as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10 or claim 12, which maintains resistance to loss of

14. 1. A method for preparing a preform for a beverage tank, comprising the steps of: blending virgin polyethylene terephthalate (vPET), recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), and scavenging additives into a preform blend; molding the preform blend by injection molding or extrusion blow molding to form the preform; wherein the preform blend comprises 35 wt% to 70 wt% rPET based on the weight of the beverage tank.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein blending the recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) comprises blending a combination of rPET pellets and rPET flake, the combination comprising rPET pellets in an amount of 17.5 wt% to 35 wt%, preferably 25 wt%, based on the weight of the beverage tank.

16. 16. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein blending the recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) comprises blending a combination of rPET pellets and rPET flake, the combination comprising rPET flake in an amount of 17.5 wt% to 50 wt%, preferably 25 wt%, based on the weight of the beverage tank.

17. A method for manufacturing a beverage tank for carbonated beverages, comprising the steps of: - providing a preform according to any one of claims 14 to 16; heating and conditioning the preform to a temperature in the range of 90 to 110°C, more preferably 95 to 105°C; placing the preform in a mold in the shape of a beverage tank; - biaxially stretching the preform along a first axis and a perpendicular second axis and filling the mould to produce a beverage tank; - cooling the produced beverage tanks; removing the cooled beverage tank from the mould; A method comprising:

18. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the preform has an inner surface and an outer surface, and heating and conditioning the preform includes applying a thermal reversal whereby a temperature gap is achieved between the higher temperature inner surface and the lower temperature outer surface.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein during heating and conditioning, the temperature gap is between 5 and 15°C, more preferably between 11 and 13°C, most preferably 12°C.

20. 20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein heating and conditioning the preform comprises heating the inner surface to a temperature of 100-110°C, more preferably 103-107°C, most preferably 105°C, and heating the outer surface to a temperature of 90-100°C, more preferably 93-97°C, most preferably 95°C.

21. 21. The method according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein heating and conditioning the preform comprises at least one heating stage and at least one conditioning stage, in which in the heating stage both the inner surface temperature and the outer surface temperature are increased, and in which in the conditioning stage the inner surface temperature stagnates or increases while the outer surface temperature is decreased.

22. Heating and conditioning the preform comprises: placing the preform vertically in a heating apparatus, the heating apparatus having at least one set of infrared lamps configured to radiate toward the preform, the at least one set of infrared lamps being arranged along a vertical axis; Heating and conditioning the preform further comprises rotating the preform within the heating apparatus about a vertical axis of rotation while applying infrared radiation from the at least one set of infrared lamps.

22. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 21.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the heating apparatus comprises an interior wall, the interior wall comprising a non-focusing reflective surface configured to reflect radiation from the infrared lamp.

24. 24. The method of claim 22 or 23, wherein heating and conditioning the preform further comprises applying cooling within the heating apparatus to avoid crystallization of the outer surface of the preform.

25. 25. Use of a beverage tank according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or a beverage tank produced by the manufacturing method according to any one of claims 17 to 24 for storing and dispensing carbonated beverages, preferably carbonated alcoholic beverages such as beer.

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