Packaging for smoking or aerosol products

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pack (100) for storing smoking or aerosol product articles, the pack (100) comprising a plurality of sides (105-113) having outer surfaces (105a-113a), at least a portion of at least one outer surface being coated with an aroma substrate containing a flavorant or flavoring material, and at least a portion of two or more of the outer surfaces of the plurality of sides being coated with an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance. The present invention further relates to a method for forming the pack.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to packaging for smoking or aerosol products, said packaging providing an improved hygiene and flavor experience to the consumer. [Background technology]

[0002] Consumers of smoking or aerosol products are increasingly seeking an improved experience from the packs in which the smoking or aerosol products are stored.

[0003] A pack that can transfer flavoring to a consumer's fingers to reduce lingering odors from smoking or aerosol products is desirable. Additionally, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have become more concerned with hygiene, especially regarding items such as smoking or aerosol product packs, which may be handled multiple times per day. However, not only are such smoking or aerosol product packs frequently handled, they are also typically made of absorbent materials such as paperboard. Therefore, it has been difficult to find a viable hygienic solution that continuously works to permanently destroy harmful microorganisms on the pack. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It would therefore be desirable to provide a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles that provides a continuous hygiene experience to the consumer while also allowing the consumer to impart fragrance if desired, and it would be particularly desirable if the hygiene experience could be imparted to the consumer without any effort on their part. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles, the pack comprising a plurality of sides having outer surfaces, at least a portion of at least one outer surface being coated with an aroma substrate containing a flavorant or flavoring material, and at least a portion of two or more outer surfaces of the plurality of sides being coated with an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for forming the pack of the first aspect of the present invention, the method comprising: (a) providing a blank having a plurality of regions, each region having a first and second surface; (b) coating at least a portion of two or more of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with an antimicrobial substrate and coating at least a portion of at least one of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with a scented substrate; (c) assembling the blank into a pack according to the first aspect of the invention such that the coated first surfaces of the plurality of regions, or portions thereof, become coated outer surfaces of a plurality of sides of the pack, or portions thereof.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance in providing an antimicrobial effect to a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 shows a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles according to a first aspect of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 shows a blank coated with an antimicrobial substrate. [Figure 3] 1 shows a blank coated with a fragrance substrate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Surprisingly and advantageously, it has been found that packs according to the first aspect of the invention provide consumers with a greatly improved and desirable hygiene and fragrance experience.

[0010] The antimicrobial substrate coated on at least a portion of two or more of the outer surfaces of the pack advantageously ensures that harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, archaea, protozoa, algae, bacterial spores, fungi, fungal spores, and viruses, which come into contact with said outer surfaces, are continuously and permanently killed, their growth is prevented, or their numbers are significantly reduced. The antimicrobial substrate thus provides a sustained antimicrobial effect that is generated without the need for any interaction from the consumer. When handling a pack according to the first aspect of the invention, the consumer can feel safe and confident that no hygiene has been compromised. This effect is particularly advantageous when all outer surfaces of the pack are coated with the antimicrobial substrate.

[0011] The presence of a fragrance substrate on a pack according to the first aspect of the invention also advantageously enables the consumer, when in contact with it, to transfer a pleasant smelling flavor or aroma to themselves, typically their hands and fingers or thumbs, such transfer advantageously reducing any residual flavor of the smoking or aerosol product, which can then be transferred to the consumer if required.

[0012] Thus, the consumer is provided with a pack suitable for everyday use that maintains continuous and independent hygiene whilst also providing the consumer with an enhanced perfume experience when required.

[0013] The pack according to the first aspect of the invention is operable to store a smoking or aerosol product therein. Thus, at any given time, the pack according to the first aspect of the invention may or may not contain a smoking or aerosol product. Such smoking or aerosol product products are well known in the art and may include cigarettes, cigars, or other tobacco-containing items.

[0014] The pack according to the first aspect of the present invention may be formed from any suitable material. The pack may be formed from a paper-based material, including, but not limited to, paper, paperboard, cardboard, paper liner, or combinations thereof. The pack may also include plastic or foil components. The pack may be contained in an airtight plastic film wrapper that is opened to access the pack and the smoking or aerosol product contained therein.

[0015] The pack according to the first aspect of the present invention may be formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid. The pack may thus form a box structure, such as a rectangular box structure. The lid may be attached to the container or separate from the container, but is preferably attached to the container. If attached, the lid is preferably a hinged lid attached to the container by a hinge mechanism, which may be a fold or a partial cut. When the pack is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, the multiple sides of the pack refer to the multiple sides formed by the container and the lid. When the pack is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, the smoking or aerosol product may be inserted into the pack through the opening of the container, stored therein, and then removed from the pack. The opening of the container may be closed by the lid to retain the smoking or aerosol product within the pack.

[0016] In the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention, at least a portion of at least one outer surface is coated with a fragrance substrate containing a perfume or fragrance material. Thus, at least a portion of two or more of the outer surfaces may be coated with the fragrance substrate. Preferably, at least one outer surface, such as one surface or two or three outer surfaces, is coated with the fragrance substrate. More preferably, one outer surface is coated with the fragrance substrate. More preferably, when the pack is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, at least one outer surface of the lid, preferably one outer surface of the lid, is coated with the fragrance substrate. This advantageously allows the consumer to access the perfume or fragrance material of the fragrance substrate as needed, rather than while the consumer is in contact with the pack.

[0017] When an exterior surface coating is discussed herein, it will be understood that reference is made to the entire exterior surface unless a portion of that term is specifically stated.

[0018] It will further be appreciated that an exterior surface or portion thereof coated with a fragranced substrate containing a perfume or fragrance material may be identified by a visual indicator present on said exterior surface or portion thereof, for example, through the use of printed text or color. This may be accomplished using an undervarnish coating or printed ink beneath the antimicrobial and / or fragranced substrate.

[0019] When the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, at least one outer surface of the pack, or at least a portion thereof, coated with the aroma substrate is preferably the outer surface of the lid, more preferably the top outer surface of the lid. Preferably, when the pack is formed from a container closed by a lid, at least one outer surface, such as one, two, or three outer surfaces of the lid, is coated with the aroma substrate. Preferably, the at least one outer surface of the lid includes the top outer surface of the lid. More preferably, when the pack is formed from a container closed by a lid, the outer surface of the lid, preferably the top outer surface of the lid, is coated with the aroma substrate. The term "top" as used herein with reference to the outer surface of the lid refers to the outer surface of the lid that is at the top when a consumer holds the pack to remove the smoking or aerosol product article from the pack.

[0020] In the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention, up to 3%, for example up to 4%, of the surface area of ​​the pack is coated with the fragrance substrate. Preferably, up to 5% or even up to 7% of the surface area of ​​the pack is coated with the fragrance substrate. For example, about 6% of the surface area of ​​the pack is coated with the fragrance substrate.

[0021] The fragrance substrate coated on the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention contains a fragrance or fragrance material. The fragrance or fragrance material is dispersed throughout the fragrance substrate so that the fragrance or fragrance material is dispersed throughout the surface or portion of the pack on which the fragrance substrate is coated. The fragrance or fragrance material is a material transferred to the consumer that provides a pleasant-smelling fragrance or aroma as needed. Typically, the fragrance or fragrance material is transferred to the consumer when the consumer touches at least one outer surface or portion of the pack coated with the fragrance substrate and applies pressure or friction. The fragrance or fragrance material is typically transferred from the fragrance substrate on the pack to the consumer's finger or thumb upon contact.

[0022] The fragrance or flavoring material of the fragrance base may be any material suitable for providing a pleasant-smelling fragrance or aroma. Suitable materials are known in the art. The fragrance or flavoring material may be selected from materials including, but not limited to, extracts, blended flavors, oils, essential oils, and single flavor compounds. Examples of suitable fragrance or flavoring materials include, but are not limited to, aloe vera, peppermint, or sweet peppermint extracts or essential oils, as well as strawberry, raspberry, apple, banana, lemon, orange, mandarina, cinnamon, lemon, thyme, coffee, licorice, and / or Santal. Preferably, the fragrance or flavoring material is selected from extracts or essential oils. For example, the fragrance or flavoring material is selected from aloe vera extract or essential oil, peppermint extract or essential oil, and sweet peppermint extract or essential oil, most preferably from aloe vera extract or essential oil, and sweet peppermint extract or essential oil.

[0023] The perfume or flavoring material of the fragrance base may be present in liquid, powder, or gel form.

[0024] The fragrance or flavoring material of the fragrance substrate may be present in the fragrance substrate within microcapsules. Thus, the fragrance substrate may include microcapsules in which the fragrance or flavoring material is encapsulated. The microcapsules containing the fragrance or flavoring material may be dispersed throughout the fragrance substrate, such that the microcapsules are dispersed throughout the surface or portion of the pack on which the fragrance substrate is coated. Preferably, the fragrance or flavoring material is encapsulated in microcapsules within the fragrance substrate. When a consumer applies friction or pressure to at least one outer surface or portion of the pack coated with the fragrance substrate, the microcapsules are broken, releasing the fragrance or flavoring material contained therein and transferring it to the consumer or to the outer surface of the pack, providing a pleasant-smelling fragrance or aroma.

[0025] When a perfume or fragrance material is encapsulated in microparticles within a fragrance substrate, the microcapsules may be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, melamine-based materials and cellulose-based materials. Suitable examples of melamine-based materials include melamine resins or their derivatives, such as butylated or isobutylated melamine resins. Butylated or isobutylated melamine resins may be formed by incorporating butyl alcohol or its isomers into melamine resins. Preferably, the microcapsules containing the perfume or fragrance material are formed from melamine-based materials, more preferably, melamine resins or their derivatives, including butylated melamine resins and isobutylated melamine resins. More preferably, the microcapsules containing the perfume or fragrance material are formed from melamine resins. Melamine resins may also be known in the art as melamine formaldehyde resins.

[0026] When the perfume or fragrance material is encapsulated in microcapsules within the fragrance base, the microcapsules may have any suitable dimensions. The dimensions of the microcapsules may be less than 12 μm, for example less than 10 μm, or between 5 μm and 12 μm, for example between 6 μm and 10 μm. The microcapsules may be substantially spherical with a diameter of less than 12 μm, for example less than 10 μm. The microcapsules may be substantially spherical with a diameter of between 5 and 12 μm, for example between 6 and 10 μm. The term "substantially spherical" as used herein in relation to microparticles means that more than 85%, for example more than 90% or even 95% of the microcapsules present in the fragrance base are essentially spherical.

[0027] It will be appreciated that the amount of perfume or fragrance material present in the fragrance substrate will vary depending on the desired intensity of perfume or fragrance to be imparted to the consumer.

[0028] When the fragrance or flavoring material is encapsulated in microcapsules within the fragrance base, the fragrance base may comprise microcapsules containing 5 to 30% by weight of the fragrance or flavoring material, preferably microcapsules containing 10 to 20% by weight of the fragrance or flavoring material.

[0029] In addition to the fragrance or flavoring material, the fragrance substrate may further comprise a varnish, such as an overprint varnish. The varnish allows the fragrance or flavoring material to be applied to the pack blank by a printing application technique. In particular, the varnish is preferably configured to be applied to the blank by gravure printing, flexographic printing, or offset printing. The varnish may comprise a binder material, a solvent, and optionally additives such as fillers, surfactants, waxes, and adhesion promoters. The varnish may be a water-based varnish. For example, the water-based varnish may be an acrylic emulsion. For example, the water-based varnish may comprise, for example, a polyvinyl acetate polymer component as a binder component. Suitable varnishes and water-based varnishes are well known in the art.

[0030] A fragrance substrate containing a fragrance or fragrance material may further comprise an antimicrobial substance as described herein. This has the advantage that the outer surface or a portion thereof that is coated with the fragrance substrate and contacted by the consumer provides additional antimicrobial effect. In this case, all of the features of the fragrance or fragrance material, including the preferred or optional features described above, are applicable. Similarly, all of the features of the antimicrobial substance, including the preferred or optional features described below, are applicable. Thus, a fragrance substrate containing a fragrance or fragrance material may further comprise an antimicrobial substance as described in this application. Thus, the fragrance substrate may also provide the antimicrobial effect described herein for the antimicrobial substance. The antimicrobial substance may be introduced into the fragrance substrate using the antimicrobial substrate as described herein. In this case, all of the features of the fragrance or fragrance material, including the preferred or optional features described above, are applicable. In this case, all of the features of the antimicrobial substrate, including the preferred or optional features described below, are applicable. Thus, the fragrance substrate may comprise an antimicrobial substrate as described herein. Thus, the fragrance substrate may comprise a varnish, such as a water-based varnish as defined below for the antimicrobial substrate. Thus, the fragrance substrate may also demonstrate antimicrobial efficacy. By combining (e.g., mixing) an antimicrobial substance or substrate in the fragrance substrate, when the fragrance substrate is in direct contact with the consumer's fingers, the antimicrobial substance in the fragrance substrate ensures protection from pathogens during contact / rubbing.

[0031] Preferably, the fragrance base comprises an aqueous varnish containing a perfume or fragrance material, and the perfume or fragrance material is present in the aqueous varnish within microcapsules. Thus, the fragrance base preferably comprises an aqueous varnish comprising microcapsules in which the perfume or fragrance material is encapsulated.

[0032] In a pack according to the first aspect of the invention, at least a portion of two or more of the outer surfaces are coated with an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance. Preferably, two or more, for example three or more, or six or more of the outer surfaces are coated with the antimicrobial substrate. More preferably, all of the outer surfaces of the pack are coated with the antimicrobial substrate. It will be appreciated that the more surfaces or portions thereof that are coated with the antimicrobial substance, the more advantageous the antimicrobial effect exhibited by the pack as a whole.

[0033] The antimicrobial substrate contains an antimicrobial substance. It is the antimicrobial substance that provides the antimicrobial substrate, and thus the pack, with antimicrobial efficacy. The antimicrobial substance is dispersed throughout the antimicrobial substrate such that the antimicrobial substance is dispersed throughout the surface or portion of the pack on which the antimicrobial substrate is coated. As used herein, the term "antimicrobial efficacy" refers to the killing or prevention of growth, or significant reduction in the number of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, protozoa, algae, bacterial spores, fungi, fungal spores, and viruses, on the surface or portion of the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention coated with the antimicrobial substrate. "Antibacterial efficacy" can be tested for effectiveness in microbiological enumeration of colony-forming units (CFU) of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus using standard ISO 22196. The antimicrobial activity of the antimicrobial substance itself, in percentage terms, should be at least a 90% reduction, more preferably at least a 99% reduction, and most preferably at least a 99.9% reduction. Two or more antimicrobial substances may be contained in the antimicrobial substrate.

[0034] The antimicrobial substance may be a photosensitive compound. Such compounds produce an antimicrobial effect upon exposure to radiation, particularly ultraviolet (UV) and / or visible light. This may be known as the "photodynamic effect," which is the photodynamic inactivation of microorganisms. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that exposure of the photosensitive compound to radiation, such as UV light and / or visible light, produces singlet oxygen, which oxidizes and kills microorganisms. Suitable sources of UV and visible light include, but are not limited to, ambient room light, sunlight, or daylight. Thus, when the antimicrobial substance is a photosensitive compound, the antimicrobial substance is operable to provide a permanent, independent antimicrobial effect during normal use of the pack, without the need for any consumer action. Given that more than one antimicrobial substance may be present in the antimicrobial substrate, it follows that more than one photosensitive compound may be utilized.

[0035] Suitable photosensitive compounds may be selected from, but are not limited to, phenalenones, curcumins, flavins, porphyrins, porphycenes, xanthene dyes, coumarins, phthalocyanines, phenothiazine compounds, anthracene dyes, pyrenes, fullerenes, perylenes, or combinations thereof.

[0036] Preferably, the photosensitive compound is phenalenone. Phenalenone is a derivative of phenalene (1-H-phenalene), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. Preferably, the photosensitive compound is phenalen-1-one (1-H-phenalen-1-one).

[0037] The phenalen-1-one may be any phenalen-1-one of general formula (1) or (1a) described in WO 2018167264 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The phenalen-1-one may be any phenalen-1-one described in WO 201167992 A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0038] Suitable phenalen-1-ones may be selected from those of general formula (1):

[0039] [ka]

[0040] In the formula, residues R1 to R8 may be each independently the same or different and represent hydrogen, halogen, alkyl containing 1 to 12 C atoms, alkylaryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, aryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, *-O-alkyl containing 1 to 12 C atoms, *-O-alkylaryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, *-O-aryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, ether containing 2 to 12 C atoms, alkylaryl containing 5 to 20 ...5 to 20 C atoms, alkylaryl containing 2 to 12 C atoms, alkylaryl containing 5 (1a) Residue of formula *-C(=O)-R (1b) or an organic residue W1 containing at least one reactive functional group, provided that at least one of the residues R1 to R7 is an organic residue W1, and in the formula, the organic residues W1 each independently represent a residue of one of the general formulas (2) to (6), *-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] a -(C(D)(E)) m -X (2) *-A-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] c -(C(D)(E)) m -X (3) *-(C(D)(E)) d -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X (4) *-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] b -(C(D)(E)) g -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X (5) *-A-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] f -(C(D)(E)) g -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X (6) In the formula, each A independently represents oxygen, sulfur, or a residue of any of the general formulae (10a) to (11a),

[0041] [ka]

[0042] In the formula, *ph represents a bond from a residue of each of the general formulae (10a) to (11a) to a C atom of the phenalene ring, *c represents a bond from a residue of each of the general formulae (10a) to (11a) to a C atom of the residue (C(D)(E)), and in the formula, the residues B each independently represent oxygen, sulfur, or a residue of each of the general formulae (10) to (14),

[0043] [ka]

[0044] In the formula, the residue R (Ia) , R (Ib) , R (11a) , R (12a) , R (13a) , R (14a) , and R (14b) represent, independently of one another, hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, n-pentyl, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may each, independently of one another, be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of halogen, amino, hydroxyl, *-O-alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms, alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms, hydroxyalkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms and 1 to 3 OH groups, halogenoalkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms and 1 to 3 halogen groups, and combinations thereof; -are each, independently of one another, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, sulfate, hydrogensulfate, phosphate, hydrogenphosphate, dihydrogenphosphate, a carboxylate anion of at least one carboxylic acid containing 1 to 15 carbon atoms, a sulfonate anion of at least one sulfonic acid containing 1 to 12 C atoms, or a combination thereof, in which residues D and E are each, independently of one another, hydrogen, halogen, hydroxyl, alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, hydroxyalkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms and 1 to 5 OH groups, phenyl, benzyl, an anion of the formula *-LR (II) Residue of formula *-LC(=L)R (III) Residue of formula *-(CH2) q -X residue, formula *-L-(CH2) q -X residue, or formula *-(CH2) s -L-(CH2) t -X, in which the residues L each independently represent oxygen or sulfur, and in which the residue R (II) and R (III) are each, independently of one another, hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, n-pentyl, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may each, independently of one another, be unsubstituted or substituted, the indices q, s, and t are each, independently of one another, an integer from 1 to 5, in which the indices a, c, f, g, and n are each, independently of one another, an integer from 0 to 5, in which the indices b, d, and m are each, independently of one another, an integer from 1 to 5, in which the residues Ar are each, independently of one another, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic residue or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaromatic residue, in which the residues X are each, independently of one another, a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic residue or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaromatic residue, (VI) )(R (VII) ), *-OH, *-SH, *-NCO, *-NCS, *-Si(R (VIII )(R (IX) )-[O-Si(R (X) )(R (XI)) ] p-Z or a residue of any one of the general formulae (20) to (24),

[0045] [ka]

[0046] In the formula, the residue R (20a) , R (20b) , R (20c) , R (21a) , R (22a) , R (22b) , R (22c) , R (23a) , R (24a) , R (24b) , and R (24c) each independently represent hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, or n-pentyl, in which the indices l and k each independently represent an integer from 0 to 4, and in which the residue R (VI) and R (VII) each independently of one another represents hydrogen, alkyl, which may be linear or branched, containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may each independently of one another be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof, in which residue R (VIII) , R (IX) , R (X) , and R (XI)represent, each independently of one another, hydrogen, alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, *-O-alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, or benzyl, wherein phenyl and benzyl may each independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof, and wherein residues Z each independently of one another represent halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxyl containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or alkylcarboxyl containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and wherein the index p each independently of one another represents an integer from 0 to 4.

[0047] Preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-ones of general formula (1) above, the residues Ar each independently represent a residue of general formulae (25a) to (31):

[0048] [ka]

[0049] [ka]

[0050] In the formula, residues R25, R26, R27, R28, R29, R26 a , R26 b , R27 a , R27 b , R28 a , R28 b , R29 a , R29 b , R30 a , and R30 brepresent, independently of one another, hydrogen, hydroxy, amino, alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, *-O-alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may each, independently of one another, be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof, in which residues R30 represent, independently of one another, hydrogen or alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, in which residues R33 a and R33 b represent, independently of one another, hydrogen, hydroxy, amino, alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, perfluoroalkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, *-O-alkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, benzyl, or, when taken together, cycloalkyl which may be linear or branched and containing 4 to 9 carbon atoms, or a 9H-fluoren-9-ylidene residue, in which Y - are each independently an anion representing fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, sulfate, hydrogensulfate, phosphate, hydrogenphosphate, dihydrogenphosphate, a carboxylate anion of at least one carboxylic acid containing 1 to 15 carbon atoms, a sulfonate anion of at least one sulfonic acid containing 1 to 12 C atoms, or a combination thereof.

[0051] More preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-one of general formula (1) above, at least one organic residue W1 each independently represents a residue of general formula (40) to (67) or (72) to (98e):

[0052] [ka]

[0053] [ka]

[0054] [ka]

[0055] [ka]

[0056] In the formula, Y - are each independently an anion representing fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, sulfate, hydrogensulfate, phosphate, hydrogenphosphate, dihydrogenphosphate, a carboxylate anion of at least one carboxylic acid containing 1 to 15 carbon atoms, a sulfonate anion of at least one sulfonic acid containing 1 to 12 C atoms, or a combination thereof.

[0057] More preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-one of the general formula (1) above, the phenalen-1-one compound may be selected from the group consisting of compounds of the formulae (100) to (127), (132) to (166).

[0058] [ka]

[0059] [ka]

[0060] [ka]

[0061] [ka]

[0062] [ka]

[0063] [ka]

[0064] More preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-one of general formula (1) above, the phenalen-1-one is a phenalen-1-one of general formula (1a):

[0065] [ka]

[0066] In the formula, residue R1 a ~R8 a may be the same or different, independently of one another, and each represents hydrogen, halogen, alkyl containing 1 to 12 C atoms, alkylaryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, aryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, *-O-alkyl containing 1 to 12 C atoms, *-O-alkylaryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, *-O-aryl containing 5 to 20 C atoms, ether containing 2 to 12 C atoms, alkyl of the formula *-OC(=O)-R (1a) Residue of formula *-C(=O)-R (1b) or an organic residue W1a containing at least one reactive functional group, provided that residue R1 a or R2 a at least one of the organic residues W1a is an organic residue W1a, and in the formula, the organic residues W1a each independently represent a residue of one of the general formulae (2a) to (6a), *-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] e -(C(D)(E)) m -X a (2a) *-A-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] c -(C(D)(E)) m -Xa (3a) *-(C(D)(E)) d -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X a (4a) *-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] b -(C(D)(E)) g -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X a (5a) *-A-[(C(D)(E)) d -B] f -(C(D)(E)) g -Ar-(C(D)(E)) n -X a (6a) In the formula, each A independently represents oxygen, sulfur, or a residue of any of the general formulae (10a) to (11a),

[0067] [ka]

[0068] In the formula, *ph represents a bond from a residue of each of the general formulae (10a) to (11a) to a C atom of the phenalene ring, *c represents a bond from a residue of each of the general formulae (10a) to (11a) to a C atom of the residue (C(D)(E)), and in the formula, the residues B each independently represent oxygen, sulfur, or a residue of each of the general formulae (10) to (12),

[0069] [ka]

[0070] In the formula, the residue R (Ia) , R (Ib) , R (11a) , and R (12a)represent, independently of one another, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, n-pentyl, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may each, independently of one another, be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof, in which residues D and E each, independently of one another, represent hydrogen, halogen, hydroxyl, alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, hydroxyalkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms and 1 to 5 OH groups, phenyl, benzyl, alkyl of the formula *-LR (II) Residue of formula *-LC(=L)R (III) Residue of formula *-(CH2) q -X a Residue of formula *-L-(CH2) q -X a or a residue of formula *-(CH2) s -L-(CH2) t -X a wherein the residues L each independently represent oxygen or sulfur, and wherein the residue R (II) and R (III) represent, independently of one another, hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, n-pentyl, phenyl, or benzyl, in which phenyl and benzyl may, independently of one another, be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof; the indices q, s, and t each independently represent an integer from 1 to 5; the indices c, f, g, and n each independently represent an integer from 0 to 5; the indices b, d, e, and m each independently represent an integer from 1 to 5; the residues Ar each independently represent a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic residue or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaromatic residue not containing an N atom; and the residues X aare each independently a reactive functional group *-OH, *-SH, *-NCO, *-NCS, *-Si(R (VIII) )(R (IX) -[O-Si(R (X) )(R (XI) )] p -Z, or a residue of the general formula (20) to (24),

[0071] [ka]

[0072] In the formula, the residue R (20a) , R (20b) , R (20c) , R (21a) , R (22a) , R (22b) , R (22c) , R (23a) , R (24a) , R (24b) , and R (24c) each independently represent hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, or n-pentyl, in which the indices l and k each independently represent an integer from 0 to 4, and in which the residue R (VIII) , R (IX) , R (X) , and R (XI) represent, each independently of one another, hydrogen, alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, *-O-alkyl which may be linear or branched containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, or benzyl, wherein phenyl and benzyl may each independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more residues selected from the group consisting of chlorine, bromine, fluorine, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof, and wherein residues Z each independently of one another represent halogen, hydroxyl, alkoxyl containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or alkylcarboxyl containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and wherein the index p each independently of one another represents an integer from 0 to 4.

[0073] Preferably, in the phenalen-1-one of the above general formula (1a), the residues Ar each independently represent an unsubstituted or substituted phenyl residue, an unsubstituted or substituted biphenyl residue, an unsubstituted or substituted diphenylpropyl residue, or an unsubstituted or substituted bisphenylsulfonyl residue, preferably a residue of the general formula (25a) to (25c), (29a) to (29c), (30) or (31),

[0074] [ka]

[0075] [ka]

[0076] In the formula, residues R25, R26, R27, R28, R29, R26 a , R26 b , R27 a , R27 b , R28 a , R28 b , R29 a , R29 b , R30 a , and R30 b are each independently hydrogen, hydroxy, alkyl having 1 to 5 carbon atoms which may be linear or branched, perfluoroalkyl having 1 to 5 carbon atoms which may be linear or branched, *-O-alkyl having 1 to 5 carbon atoms which may be linear or branched, phenyl or benzyl, in which the residues R33 a and R33 bare each, independently of one another, hydrogen, hydroxyl, alkyl having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, which may be linear or branched, perfluoroalkyl having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, *-O-alkyl, which may be linear or branched, having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, phenyl, benzyl, or, when taken together, cycloalkyl, which may be linear or branched, having 4 to 9 carbon atoms, or a 9H-fluoren-9-ylidene residue, wherein each of the phenyl and benzyl may independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more groups selected from the group consisting of chloro, bromo, fluoro, methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, methoxy, ethoxy, and combinations thereof.

[0077] Preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-one of general formula (1a) above, at least one organic residue W1a each independently represents a residue of general formula (41) to (67) or (98a) to (98e).

[0078] [ka]

[0079] [ka]

[0080] [ka]

[0081] Preferably, with respect to the phenalen-1-one of general formula (1a) above, the phenalen-1-one of general formula (1a) is selected from the group consisting of compounds of formulae (101) to (127), (162) to (166), or combinations thereof.

[0082] [ka]

[0083] [ka]

[0084] [ka]

[0085] The antimicrobial material can be present in the antimicrobial substrate in any suitable amount.

[0086] For packs according to the first aspect of the invention, the antimicrobial substance is not contained in microcapsules in the antimicrobial substrate. Preferably, the antimicrobial substrate does not contain microcapsules.

[0087] To enable uniform application of the antimicrobial substance onto the blank by conventional printing techniques, the antimicrobial substrate may include a varnish such as an overprint varnish, particularly when the antimicrobial substance is a photosensitive compound. The varnish is preferably a water-based varnish. The varnish may include a binder material, a solvent, and optionally additives such as fillers, surfactants, waxes, and adhesion promoters. The varnish may be a water-based varnish. For example, the water-based varnish may be an acrylic emulsion. For example, the varnish may include a polyvinyl acetate polymer component as a binder component. The varnish is preferably configured for application to the pack blank by printing. In particular, the varnish may be preferably configured to be applied to the blank by gravure printing, flexography, offset printing, or other suitable printing techniques.

[0088] Preferably, the antimicrobial substrate is a varnish, more preferably a water-based varnish, containing an antimicrobial substance.

[0089] It will be appreciated that the antimicrobial substrate or material may be commercially purchased or formulated from suitable starting materials. Suitable examples of commercially available antimicrobial substrates for use in the present invention include those commercially available from Varcotec in their "Varcotec Lock 3" or "Lock 3" antimicrobial aqueous varnish product line. When such commercially available antimicrobial substrates are utilized, the antimicrobial efficacy of the antimicrobial substrate may last for one year, preferably three years. Varcotec Lock 3 antimicrobial aqueous varnish may be mixed with a fragrance substrate to introduce the antimicrobial substance into the fragrance substrate. As previously mentioned, the fragrance substrate may be incorporated into an aqueous varnish containing a fragrance or fragrance material.

[0090] As mentioned above, for a pack according to the first aspect of the invention, the fragrance substrate is preferably coated onto at least one of the outer surfaces, more preferably onto one of the outer surfaces, and the antimicrobial substrate is preferably coated onto at least two or more of the outer surfaces of the pack, more preferably onto all of the outer surfaces.

[0091] For packs according to the first aspect of the invention, the scented substrate and the antimicrobial substrate may be coated on the same outer surface or part thereof, or, if they overlap, the scented substrate may be coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate.

[0092] For the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention, the fragrance substrate is preferably coated on at least one of the outer surfaces, more preferably on one of the outer surfaces, and the antimicrobial substrate is preferably coated on at least two or more of the outer surfaces of the pack, more preferably on all of the outer surfaces. When the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate are coated on the same outer surface, the fragrance substrate is coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate. Preferably, at least one of the at least two or more outer surfaces coated with the antimicrobial substrate is also coated with the fragrance substrate, and the fragrance substrate is coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate.

[0093] Thus, preferably, the fragrance substrate is coated on one of the exterior surfaces and the antimicrobial substrate is coated on all of the exterior surfaces of the pack. If the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate are coated on the same exterior surface, the fragrance substrate is coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate.

[0094] Where the pack according to the first aspect of the invention is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, at least one outer surface of the pack, or at least part thereof, coated with the fragrance substrate is preferably the outer surface of the lid, more preferably the top outer surface of the lid, and the antimicrobial substrate is preferably coated on at least two or more, more preferably all, of the outer surfaces of the container, including the lid. Thus, preferably, where the pack is formed from a container closed by a lid, the outer surface of the lid, preferably the top outer surface of the lid, is coated with the fragrance substrate, and all of the outer surfaces of the container, including the lid, are coated with the antimicrobial substrate.

[0095] The antimicrobial substrate may be present on the outer surface of the pack or on portions thereof where the fragrance substrate is not present. As opposed to the fragrance substrate which is typically localized on the pack, the antimicrobial substrate is preferably applied to more of the outer surface of the pack.

[0096] Preferably, the outer surface or portion thereof coated with the fragrance substrate also includes a coating of the antimicrobial substrate. Thus, the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate can be present on the same outer surface or portion thereof of the pack. The outer surface or portion thereof coated with the fragrance substrate may be the same as or overlap to some extent with the outer surface or portion thereof coated with the antimicrobial substrate. For outer surfaces or portions thereof coated with both the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate, the fragrance substrate is preferably coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate. The fragrance substrate coating is preferably on top of the antimicrobial substrate coating. Preferably, the antimicrobial substrate forms a first coating and the fragrance substrate forms a second coating thereon.

[0097] Preferably, two or more exterior surfaces or portions thereof of a pack according to the first aspect of the invention are coated with a first coating of an antimicrobial substrate, and at least one exterior surface or portion thereof is coated with a second coating of a fragrance substrate, and the fragrance substrate layer is present on the same or overlapping exterior surface or portion thereof. The antimicrobial substrate may also be present on additional exterior surfaces or portions thereof of the pack. Preferably, the second coating is coated on the first coating on one surface or portion thereof (e.g., on the top surface of the lid) of the pack, and the first coating is coated on the same surface or portion thereof (e.g., on the top surface of the lid) as well as on other surfaces or portions thereof of the pack. Preferably, two or more exterior surfaces or portions thereof of a pack according to the first aspect of the invention are coated with a first coating of an antimicrobial substrate, and at least one of the exterior surfaces or portions thereof is coated with a second coating of a fragrance substrate, and the fragrance substrate is present on the antimicrobial substrate on the exterior surface or portion thereof.

[0098] Preferably, the coating of the antimicrobial substrate overlaps or is present on the same exterior surface or portion thereof as the coating of the fragrance substrate. More preferably, the coating of the antimicrobial substrate is present on the same exterior surface or portion thereof as the fragrance substrate. This has the advantage of facilitating the sequential application of both the antimicrobial and fragrance substances. It is not necessary to provide a mask over a portion of the blank before coating the fragrance substrate in the portion dedicated to the fragrance substrate.

[0099] Preferably, for a pack according to the first aspect of the invention, there is at least one layer of each of a fragrance substrate and an antimicrobial substrate. More preferably, there is an additional layer of antimicrobial substrate. Thus, more preferably, there is one layer of fragrance substrate and one or more layers of antimicrobial substrate, for example 1 to 3, or 1 or 2, preferably 2 layers.

[0100] For a pack according to the first aspect of the invention, the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate are different, meaning that they are different coatings with different overall ingredient compositions, and are applied separately to the pack according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0101] The outer surface of the pack, or a portion thereof, may be coated with an additional coating, for example an undervarnish coating or printing ink that resides beneath the antimicrobial and / or fragrance substrate.

[0102] All features of the first aspect of the invention, whether discussed as preferred or optional, are applicable to all other aspects described herein, and likewise all features of all other aspects described herein, whether preferred or optional, are applicable to the first aspect of the invention.

[0103] The fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate may be applied in any suitable manner.

[0104] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for forming the pack of the first aspect of the present invention, the method comprising: (a) providing a blank having a plurality of regions, each region having a first and second surface; (b) coating at least a portion of two or more of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with an antimicrobial substrate and coating at least a portion of at least one of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with a scented substrate; (c) assembling the blank into a pack according to the first aspect of the invention such that the coated first surfaces of the plurality of regions, or portions thereof, become coated outer surfaces of a plurality of sides of the pack, or portions thereof.

[0105] All features of the second aspect of the invention discussed below as either preferred or optional are applicable to all other aspects described herein, and likewise all features of all other aspects described herein, whether preferred or optional, are applicable to the second aspect of the invention.

[0106] A blank refers to unassembled packaging from which a pack according to the first aspect of the present invention can be formed. The blank is typically a flat-pack structure from which a pack can be assembled. The multiple regions, each having a first and second surface, are formed by folds or seams along the material of the blank. The pack is typically assembled by folding or cutting the blank along the folds or seams and then gluing the appropriate parts together to form the pack. Such procedures are well known in the industry. The multiple regions of the blank form the multiple sides of the pack according to the first aspect of the present invention. The pack is assembled such that the coated first surfaces of the multiple regions of the blank, or portions thereof, become the coated outer surfaces of the multiple sides of the pack. It will be understood that in assembling the pack, most of the first surfaces of the multiple regions of the blank will form the outer surfaces of the multiple sides of the pack, while some may form other parts of the pack's structure. The antimicrobial substrate and fragrance substrate are typically applied to the first surface, or portions thereof, except where adhesive is applied as needed for pack assembly. The antimicrobial substrate is preferably applied to all surfaces of the pack that, after assembly, may be exposed to radiation, particularly UV (ultraviolet) and / or visible light, such as ambient light. This is particularly advantageous when the antimicrobial substrate contains a photosensitive compound as described above.

[0107] The antimicrobial and fragrance substrates can be applied to the blanks using any suitable printing or coating technique. Suitable techniques include offset lithography, flexography, gravure, flatbed and rotary screen printing, pad printing, and offset printing, including Mayer bar coating. It will be understood that when offset printing techniques are used, any offset press typically includes a flexographic press, such that the substrate is applied using the flexographic unit of the offset press. Curing of the antimicrobial or fragrance substrate can occur during the application process and / or after application. Curing can involve the application of UV light, heat, drying, and combinations thereof.

[0108] Preferably, the antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate are applied by printing. More preferably, the antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate are applied by gravure printing or offset printing.

[0109] It will be understood that when applied to the blank, at least a portion of any solvent present in the antimicrobial substrate and / or fragrance substrate may be lost due to the application methods detailed herein.

[0110] The antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate may be applied to the blank in a single layer or multiple layers, as desired. It will be understood that the antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate may be applied to a common surface or portion thereof of the blank. Thus, the surface or portion thereof coated with the fragrance substrate may be the same as or overlap somewhat with the surface or portion thereof coated with the antimicrobial substrate. Preferably, at least one layer of each of the fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate is applied to the blank. Most preferably, an additional layer of the antimicrobial substrate is applied to the blank. The additional layer of the antimicrobial substrate is most preferably applied before coating the fragrance substrate. More preferably, one layer of the fragrance substrate is applied to the blank, and one or more layers of the antimicrobial substrate, for example, 1 to 3, or 1 or 2, preferably 2 layers, are applied to the blank.

[0111] When the antibacterial substrate and the fragrance substrate are to be applied to the same or overlapping first surface or a portion thereof of the blank, the antibacterial substrate is preferably applied to the blank before the fragrance substrate. This is particularly advantageous when the fragrance substrate's fragrance or flavoring material is contained in microcapsules. If the fragrance substrate containing microcapsules is applied to the blank first, the microcapsules may rupture due to the conditions and temperature of the process for applying the antibacterial substrate thereon. In this case, they will not be able to optimally perform their function of transferring the fragrance or flavoring material to the consumer. It is also advantageous to mix the antibacterial substrate or substance with the fragrance substrate so that the outermost coating of the fragrance substrate contains an antibacterial effect that is effective in disinfecting the fragrance area.

[0112] Thus, with respect to the method of the second aspect according to the present invention, in step (b), the antimicrobial substrate (the "first coating") is preferably coated onto the blank before the scented substrate (the "second coating").

[0113] More preferably, the antimicrobial substrate is applied to all surfaces of the blank-forming surface of the pack. Preferably, the adhesive area of ​​the blank does not include the antimicrobial substrate. The antimicrobial substrate preferably comprises a water-based varnish for application onto the blank.

[0114] Preferably, the scented substrate coated on the blank further contains an antimicrobial substance or substrate. The scented substrate ("second coating"), optionally including an antimicrobial substance or substrate, preferably overlies the antimicrobial substrate coating ("first coating"). The scented substrate, optionally including an antimicrobial substance or substrate, preferably comprises a water-based varnish for application onto the blank.

[0115] The fragrance substrate and the antimicrobial substrate may be applied to the blank at any suitable coat weight.

[0116] Prior to coating the blank with the antimicrobial and fragrance substrates in step (b) of the method according to the second aspect of the invention, one or more of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank may be coated with an additional coating, such as an undervarnish or a printing ink. Alternatively, the blank may already include such an additional coating already applied to its first surface.

[0117] The use of the antimicrobial substrate described herein in a pack for storing a smoking or aerosol product article according to the first aspect of the invention has been identified by the inventors as providing a favourable hygiene experience for consumers of said article.

[0118] Thus, according to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance in providing an antimicrobial effect to a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles.

[0119] All features of the third aspect of the invention discussed below as either preferred or optional are applicable to all other aspects described herein, and likewise all features of all other aspects described herein, whether preferred or optional, are applicable to the third aspect of the invention.

[0120] The pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles according to the third aspect of the invention is preferably a pack according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0121] The use according to the third aspect of the present invention may further comprise the additional use of a fragrance substrate as described herein to provide a flavor profile to a pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles.

[0122] All of the features contained herein may be combined in any combination with any of the above aspects.

[0123] Any reference herein to a compound is to be taken as covering that compound per se and, where appropriate, also its derivatives, hydrates, solvates, complexes, isomers and tautomers.

[0124] As used herein, any reference to "wt %" refers to the weight percentage relative to the total weight of the antimicrobial base, fragrance base, antimicrobial substance, perfume or flavoring material, or microcapsules, as appropriate.

[0125] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show how an embodiment thereof may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0126] FIG. 1 shows a pack 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The pack 100 comprises a container 102 having an opening (not shown) closed by a lid 104. The pack 100 comprises a plurality of sides 105-113 (110-113 not shown) having outer surfaces 105a-113a (110a-113a not shown). With respect to the pack 100, each of the outer surfaces 105a-113a of the plurality of sides 110-113 is fully coated with an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance. This advantageously provides a beneficial antimicrobial effect throughout the pack 100. Preferably, the antimicrobial substance of the antimicrobial substrate is not contained in microcapsules within the antimicrobial substrate.

[0127] With respect to pack 100, a fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) containing a fragrance or fragrance material is coated on the outer surface 105a of side 105. Preferably, the fragrance or fragrance material is contained in microcapsules within the fragrance substrate. The fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) may optionally further comprise an antimicrobial substance or substrate. The fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) covers 6.1% of the surface area of ​​pack 100. On outer surface 105a of side 105, where both the antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) are present, the fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) is coated on top of the antimicrobial substrate. A first coating of antimicrobial substrate is present on outer surface 105a, and a second coating of fragrance substrate (indicated by cross-hatching) is on top of the first coating of antimicrobial substrate. Outer surface 105a represents the "top" outer surface of pack 100 according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0128] 2 shows a blank 200 having a flat-pack configuration. Blank 200 has multiple regions (e.g., 205, 206, 207) separated by folds or seams, and each region (e.g., 205, 206, 207) has a first surface (e.g., 205a, 206a, 207a) and a second surface (not shown).

[0129] Blank 200 can be used to form pack 100 of Figure 1. To form pack 100 of Figure 1, all of the first surfaces of multiple regions of blank 200 (e.g., 205a, 206a, 207a), except for the regions where adhesive will be applied, are coated with an antimicrobial substrate (shown with cross-hatching) prior to assembly. Prior to formation into a pack, the first surfaces of the regions (e.g., 205a of 205) may also be coated with a scented substrate (not shown), with the scented substrate overlying the antimicrobial substrate on that region.

[0130] 3 shows a blank 300 having a flat-pack configuration. Blank 300 has multiple regions (e.g., 305, 306, 307) separated by folds or seams, and each region (e.g., 305, 306, 307) has a first surface (305a, 306a, 307a) and a second surface (not shown).

[0131] Blank 300 can be used to form pack 100 of Figure 1. To form pack 100 of Figure 1, all of the first surfaces of multiple regions of blank 300 (e.g., 305a, 306a, 307a), except for the regions where adhesive is applied, can be coated with an antimicrobial substrate (not shown) prior to assembly. Prior to formation into a pack, the first surface of a region (e.g., 305a of 305) is coated with a scented substrate (indicated by cross-hatching), with the scented substrate overlying the antimicrobial substrate on that region.

[0132] Pack 100 of Figure 1 may then be formed by folding or cutting blank 200 or 300 along the creases or seams and adhering the appropriate pieces together to form pack 100 of Figure 1. It will be understood that when forming pack 100 of Figure 1, the majority of the first surfaces (e.g., 205a, 205b, 205c, 305a, 306a, 307a) of multiple regions (e.g., 205, 206, 207, 305, 306, 307) will become the outer surfaces (e.g., 105a, 106a, 107a) of multiple sides (e.g., 105, 106, 107) of pack 100 of Figure 1. First surface 205a / 305a of region 205 / 305 will become outer surface 105a of side 105 of pack 100 of Figure 1.

[0133] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show an example of a pack according to the first aspect of the invention and how the method of the second aspect of the invention can be carried out.

[0134] Embodiments of the present invention 1. A pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles, the pack comprising a plurality of sides having outer surfaces, at least a portion of at least one outer surface being coated with an aroma substrate containing a flavoring or flavoring material, and at least a portion of two or more outer surfaces of the plurality of sides being coated with an antimicrobial substrate containing an antimicrobial substance.

[0135] 2. A pack as described in embodiment 1, wherein at least a portion of at least one exterior surface coated with a fragrance substrate is also coated with an antimicrobial substrate.

[0136] 3. A pack as described in embodiment 2, wherein the fragrance substrate is coated onto the antimicrobial substrate.

[0137] 4. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein two or more of the outer surfaces of the sides are coated with an antimicrobial substrate.

[0138] 5. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein all of the exterior surfaces of the multiple sides are coated with the antimicrobial substrate.

[0139] 6. The pack of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein at least one outer surface is coated with a fragrance substrate.

[0140] 7. The pack of any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein all of the exterior surfaces of the plurality of sides are coated with the antimicrobial substrate, at least one exterior surface is coated with the fragrance substrate, and the fragrance substrate is coated over the antimicrobial substrate.

[0141] 8. A pack according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein one outer surface is coated with the fragrance substrate.

[0142] 9. A pack according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one layer of each of a fragrance substrate and an antimicrobial substrate is present.

[0143] 10. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein one layer of fragrance substrate is present and one or more layers of antimicrobial substrate are present, for example 1 to 3, or 1 or 2, preferably 2 layers.

[0144] 11. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the antimicrobial agent is a photosensitive compound.

[0145] 12. A pack according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the antimicrobial agent is selected from the group consisting of phenalenone, curcumin, flavin, porphyrin, porphycene, xanthene dye, coumarin, phthalocyanine, phenothiazine compound, anthracene dye, pyrene, fullerene, perylene, and combinations thereof.

[0146] 13. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the antibacterial agent is phenalenone or a combination thereof.

[0147] 14. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the antibacterial agent is a phenalen-1-one or a combination thereof.

[0148] 15. A pack according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the antimicrobial substrate comprises a varnish, preferably a water-based varnish, containing an antimicrobial substance.

[0149] 16. A pack according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the fragrance substrate comprises a varnish, preferably an aqueous varnish, containing a fragrance or perfume material.

[0150] 17. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the perfume or flavouring material is contained in microcapsules within the fragrance matrix.

[0151] 18. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the antimicrobial substance is not contained in microcapsules within the antimicrobial substance.

[0152] 19. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the fragrance or flavoring material is selected from extracts, blended flavors, essential oils, and single flavor compounds.

[0153] 20. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the fragrance or flavoring material is selected from extracts and essential oils.

[0154] 21. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the fragrance base further comprises an antimicrobial substance or base.

[0155] 22. A pack according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, the antimicrobial substrate being coated on all of the exterior surfaces of the lid and the container.

[0156] 23. A pack according to embodiment 22, wherein the lid is a hinged lid.

[0157] 24. A pack according to embodiment 23, wherein the fragrance substrate is coated on the top outer surface of the hinged-lid over the antimicrobial substrate.

[0158] 25. (a) providing a blank having a plurality of regions, each region having a first and second surface; (b) coating at least a portion of two or more of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with an antimicrobial substrate and coating at least a portion of at least one of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with a scented substrate; (c) assembling the blank into a pack according to any one of claims 1 to 24 so that the coated first surfaces, or portions thereof, of the plurality of regions become, or are part of, the coated outer surfaces of a plurality of sides of the pack.

[0159] 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the antimicrobial substrate is coated onto the blank before the fragrance substrate.

[0160] 27. The method according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the antibacterial substrate and the fragrance substrate are coated onto the blank by printing, preferably by gravure printing or offset printing.

Claims

1. A pack for storing smoking or aerosol product articles, comprising a plurality of sides having outer surfaces, at least a portion of at least one outer surface being coated with an aroma substrate containing a flavoring or flavoring material, and at least a portion of two or more outer surfaces of the plurality of sides being coated with an antibacterial substrate containing an antibacterial substance.

2. 2. The pack of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at least one outer surface coated with the fragrance substrate is also coated with the antimicrobial substrate, preferably the fragrance substrate being coated over the antimicrobial substrate.

3. 3. The pack of claim 1 or 2, wherein two or more of the outer surfaces of the plurality of sides are coated with the antimicrobial substrate, preferably all of the outer surfaces of the plurality of sides are coated with the antimicrobial substrate.

4. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one outer surface is coated with said fragrance substrate, preferably one outer surface is coated with said fragrance substrate.

5. 5. The pack of claim 1, wherein all of the outer surfaces of the plurality of sides are coated with the antimicrobial substrate, at least one outer surface is coated with the fragrance substrate, the fragrance substrate is coated over the antimicrobial substrate, and preferably one outer surface is coated with the fragrance substrate.

6. 6. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one layer of each of the fragranced substrate and the antimicrobial substrate is present, preferably one layer of the fragranced substrate and one or more layers of the antimicrobial substrate, for example 1 to 3, or 1 or 2, preferably 2 layers.

7. 7. The pack of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the antimicrobial agent is a photosensitive compound preferably selected from the group consisting of phenalenone, curcumin, flavin, porphyrin, porphycene, xanthene dyes, coumarin, phthalocyanine, phenothiazine compounds, anthracene dyes, pyrene, fullerene, perylene, and combinations thereof, preferably the antimicrobial agent is phenalenone, more preferably phenalen-1-one, and any combinations thereof.

8. 8. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the antimicrobial substrate comprises a varnish, preferably an aqueous varnish, containing the antimicrobial substance, and / or the fragrance substrate comprises a varnish, preferably an aqueous varnish, containing the fragrance or fragrance material.

9. 9. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the perfume or fragrance material is contained in microcapsules within the fragrance substrate and / or the antibacterial substance is not contained in microcapsules within the antibacterial substrate.

10. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the flavouring or flavouring material is selected from extracts, blended flavours, essential oils and single flavour compounds, preferably from extracts and essential oils.

11. A pack according to any preceding claim, wherein the fragrance substrate further comprises the antimicrobial substance or substrate.

12. 12. A pack according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pack is formed from a container having an opening closed by a lid, preferably a hinged lid, and wherein the antimicrobial substrate is coated on all of the external surfaces of the lid and container, and preferably a fragrance substrate is coated on the top external surface of the hinged lid over the antimicrobial substrate.

13. (a) providing a blank having a plurality of regions, each region having a first and second surface; (b) coating at least a portion of two or more of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with the antimicrobial substrate and coating at least a portion of at least one of the first surfaces of the plurality of regions of the blank with the scented substrate; (c) assembling the blank into the pack of any one of claims 1 to 12 so that the coated first surfaces of the plurality of regions, or parts thereof, become the coated outer surfaces of the plurality of sides of the pack, or parts thereof.

14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the antimicrobial substrate is coated onto the blank before the fragrance substrate.

15. 15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the antimicrobial substrate and the fragrance substrate are coated onto the blank by printing, preferably by gravure printing or offset printing.

Images