Bottles and containers

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a bottle comprising a body and a neck located on the body and defining an opening for the bottle, wherein the body and neck are formed from a multi-layered bottle wall, the multi-layered bottle wall comprising at least three superimposed layers including at least one intermediate layer interposed between an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the intermediate layer comprises recycled polyethylene, the outer layer comprises recycled or virgin polyethylene, and the inner layer comprises virgin polyethylene.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention is directed to a bottle comprising a body and a neck located on the body and defining an opening for the bottle, wherein the body and neck are formed from a multi-layered bottle wall, the multi-layered bottle wall comprising at least three superimposed layers including at least one intermediate layer interposed between an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the intermediate layer comprises recycled polyethylene, the outer layer comprises recycled or virgin polyethylene, and the inner layer comprises virgin polyethylene. [Background technology]

[0002] Plastic is one of the most used materials in the world. The problem with plastic is not how it is used, but how products made from it are managed after use. Currently, only a small percentage of plastic is recycled or reused, with the vast majority ending up as waste in landfills or, even worse, dumped in the open and / or ending up in the ocean. As this problem grows, there is an urgent need to recycle and reuse plastic products.

[0003] A major problem in recycling plastic products is that polymer materials such as polyethylene degrade during use and their properties (e.g., strength, elasticity, optical and thermal properties, and UV resistance) are affected during the recycling process. Therefore, recycled polyethylene (and products made from recycled materials) may be of lower quality than virgin polyethylene. Furthermore, the quality of polyethylene typically decreases each time it goes through a recycling process.

[0004] Therefore, it is difficult to obtain the same mechanical, sealing and / or cosmetic properties by using recycled polyethylene compared to virgin polyethylene. This is particularly true for multi-walled bottles made by extrusion blow molding, i.e., coextrusion and subsequent blow molding, intended to contain products such as hair care compositions.

[0005] To overcome this problem, it has been proposed that multi-walled bottles contain individual layers made of materials of different composition, i.e. layers made of recycled polyethylene or virgin polyethylene, or layers containing a mixture of both recycled and virgin polyethylene.

[0006] FR3121625 describes a multi-walled bottle containing an inner layer made of recycled polyethylene. Furthermore, the bottle contains additional barrier and adhesive layers made of materials different from polyethylene. The presence of these different materials poses an obstacle to recycling the bottle, so the bottle is not easily recyclable.

[0007] There is a need to provide a bottle comprising recycled polyethylene that has satisfactory mechanical properties, as evidenced, for example, by stress crack resistance, compared to a similar bottle comprising only virgin polyethylene, and that is easily recyclable. There is also a need to provide a bottle comprising recycled polyethylene that is suitable for containing hair care compositions (products) in a safe and durable manner, while being easily recyclable. There is also a need to provide a bottle comprising recycled polyethylene that is easily recyclable and can be tailored to suit different applications. Overall, there is a need to provide a bottle comprising recycled polyethylene that exhibits a satisfactory compromise between performance (mechanical and chemical resistance, flexibility in bottle design, product storage stability, and product shelf life) and recyclability.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a bottle containing recycled polyethylene that has satisfactory mechanical properties, as evidenced, for example, by stress crack resistance, compared to a similar bottle containing only virgin polyethylene, and that is easily recyclable. Another object is to provide a bottle containing recycled polyethylene that is suitable for containing hair care compositions in a safe and durable manner, while still being easily recyclable. Another object is to provide a bottle containing recycled polyethylene that is easily recyclable and can be tailored to its intended use. Another object is to provide a cosmetic / food-grade bottle containing recycled polyethylene that exhibits a satisfactory compromise between performance (mechanical and chemical resistance, flexibility in bottle design, product storage stability, and product shelf life) and recyclability. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This object has been achieved by producing a bottle comprising an intermediate layer and an optional outer layer made from recycled polyethylene having a specific melt flow index, determined according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.40 to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, in combination with an inner layer made from virgin polyethylene. The inventors have found that, with careful design in terms of the selection of parameters such as the number of layers, their order, their composition and origin, and / or the relative proportion of each layer's thickness to the total thickness of the multilayer wall, cosmetic / food-grade bottles comprising recycled polyethylene can be obtained that exhibit a satisfactory compromise between performance (mechanical and chemical resistance, flexibility in bottle design, product storage stability, and product shelf life) and recyclability.

[0010] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides a bottle including a body and a neck overlying the body and defining an opening for the bottle, wherein the body and neck are formed from a multi-layer bottle wall, the multi-layer bottle wall comprising at least three superimposed layers including at least one intermediate layer disposed between an outer layer and an inner layer, the intermediate layer comprising high density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and the outer layer comprises a high density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg). The present invention relates to a bottle comprising high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), or recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and an inner layer comprising high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg).

[0011] In another aspect, the invention is directed to a container including a bottle as described herein and a cap rotatably attached to the bottle.

[0012] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for producing a bottle as described herein, the method comprising at least the steps of: (A) co-extruding and blow-molding an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer, each as described herein, into a mold to obtain a bottle as described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of a bottle according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cap as described herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wall as described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.

[0015] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "consisting of" are synonymous with "including," "includes," or "containing," and "contains," and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited components, elements, or method steps. As used herein, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "consisting of" will be understood to include the terms "consisting of," "consists," and "consists of."

[0016] Furthermore, terms such as "(a)," "(b)," "(c)," and "(d)" in this specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. Terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and it is understood that embodiments of the subject matter described herein can operate in sequences other than those described or illustrated herein. When terms such as "(A)," "(B)," and "(C)," or "(a)," "(b)," "(c)," "(d)," "(i)," "(ii)," etc., relate to steps of a method or use or assay, unless otherwise indicated in the application, as described herein above or below, there may be no consistency in time or time intervals between the steps, i.e., steps may be performed simultaneously, or there may be time intervals of seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, or even years between such steps.

[0017] The term "about," when used in connection with a weight ratio or weight percentage, should be understood to mean a range of ±10% for the particular value. For example, about 1% weight percentage of a compound means a weight percentage ranging from 0.9 to 1.1%. For example, about 2.5% weight percentage of a compound means a weight percentage ranging from 2.25 to 2.75%.

[0018] In the following passages, different aspects of the subject matter are defined in more detail. Each aspect so defined can be combined with any other aspect or aspects, unless expressly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous can be combined with any other feature or features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

[0019] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "a preferred embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in a preferred embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but may refer to different embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some features but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are meant to form different embodiments within the scope of the subject matter, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination.

[0020] Furthermore, ranges defined throughout this specification are inclusive of the endpoints, i.e., a range of 1 to 10 means that both 1 and 10 are included in the range. For the avoidance of doubt, applicants shall be entitled to any equivalents pursuant to applicable law.

[0021] For purposes of the present invention, "weight %" or "wt%" as used herein is based on the total weight of the oxidative hair treatment composition. Furthermore, the total wt% of all compounds described herein in each component adds up to 100 wt%.

[0022] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents and applications, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or that it alone, or in combination with any other document or documents, teaches, suggests, or discloses any such invention. Furthermore, in the event that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0023] The measurement techniques described herein above and herein are well known to those skilled in the art and therefore do not limit the present invention.

[0024] In one aspect, the present invention provides a bottle comprising a body and a neck positioned on the body and defining an opening for the bottle, wherein the body and neck are formed from a multi-layer bottle wall, the multi-layer bottle wall comprising at least three superimposed layers including at least one intermediate layer disposed between an outer layer and an inner layer, the intermediate layer comprising high density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and the outer layer comprises a high density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg). The present invention relates to a bottle comprising a high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, as determined by a conventional method, or a recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and an inner layer comprising a high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg).

[0025] The term "inner layer" refers to the layer in contact with the product contained in the bottle. The term "outer layer" refers to the layer furthest from the product. The term "middle layer" refers to the layer located between the inner and outer layers.

[0026] Degradation during recycling of polyethylene causes a decrease in its molecular weight. Thus, recycled polyethylene contains polyethylene with a lower molecular weight compared to virgin polyethylene. The lower molecular weight of recycled polyethylene is reflected by a melt flow index higher than that of virgin polyethylene. Because the middle layer and optional outer layer contain recycled polyethylene, these layers contain polyethylene with a relatively high melt flow index.

[0027] Recycled polyethylene includes polyethylene that is the result of mechanical, chemical, thermal, or enzymatic regeneration, which is performed on products made from the polyethylene. In addition to a change in melt flow index, the recycled polyethylene is preferably characterized by the presence of deposits and / or specific markers. The markers can emit electromagnetic signals that can be detected by a suitable spectrometer (reader). In one example, the markers emit signals in response to incident electromagnetic radiation, such as UV, XRD, or XRF. XRF markers can be detected and measured by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis using an XRF spectrometer (reader), which can detect and identify their response (signature) signals.

[0028] Recycled polyethylene may also contain additional compounds, such as additives, by-products, impurities, and degradation products. The presence (and proportion) of these additional compounds depends on the source of the post-consumer polyethylene (e.g., supplier, recycling process, grade, batch, etc.). The presence or proportion of these compounds may not necessarily be evaluated, for example, if they are present in very small amounts (e.g., ppm levels). However, these additional compounds may have harmful effects when they come into contact with the contained hair care composition. Therefore, these additional compounds may adversely affect the storage stability of the product, its shelf life, and more generally, the suitability of the bottle as a cosmetic / food-grade bottle.

[0029] In one embodiment, the intermediate layer preferably comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) ranging from 0.45 to 0.85 g / 10 min. In another embodiment, the outer layer preferably comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35 g / 10 min. In another embodiment, the outer layer preferably comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) ranging from 0.45 to 0.85 g / 10 min. In one embodiment, the inner layer preferably comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35 g / 10 min.

[0030] In one embodiment, the recycled high density polyethylene preferably has a density of 0.94 g / cm 3 More than ~0.96g / cm 3 the following range, more preferably 0.945 g / cm 3 More than ~0.955g / cm 3 In one embodiment, the high density polyethylene has a density in the range of 0.94 g / cm 3 More than ~0.96g / cm 3The following range, more preferably 0.950 g / cm 3 More than ~0.960g / cm 3 It has a density in the following range: In one embodiment, the high density polyethylene contained in the inner layer (8) is the same as the high density polyethylene contained in the outer layer (7).

[0031] Bottles differ from tubes. Specifically, bottles have greater rigidity than tubes. This rigidity is achieved through the selection of polyethylene, particularly the density and wall thickness. Tubes are inherently flexible because they are designed to be squeezed by the consumer to force the product out of the tube through the intended opening defined by the neck of the tube. In contrast, bottles are designed to allow the consumer to pour the product through the opening defined by the neck of the bottle without forcing the bottle body. Furthermore, during tube production, the neck of the tube is attached to the extruded portion of the tube or over-injected.

[0032] In one embodiment, the multilayer wall preferably has a thickness in the range of 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, more preferably 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. Preferably, the thickness of the intermediate layer (6) is in the range of 30% to 60% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5). Preferably, the thickness of the outer layer (7) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5). Preferably, the thickness of the inner layer (8) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall. The wall thickness is measured at the center of the bottle extending between the bottle shoulder and the bottle bottom, and both the shoulder and the bottle bottom are not considered for the purpose of measuring the wall thickness. The wall thickness of the bottle can be adjusted to achieve good results in compatibility tests and leak tests depending on the chemical nature of the product to be contained.

[0033] The present inventors have discovered a need for a bottle made from a multilayer wall including an inner layer having a satisfactory relative thickness. While the inner layer's primary purpose is to protect the hair care composition, below a certain threshold, the inner layer may no longer be able to perform that function. This may adversely affect product stability and shelf life, and may compromise the bottle's cosmetic / food-grade suitability. In contrast, above a certain threshold, the amount (percentage) of virgin polyethylene used exceeds that required to obtain a cosmetic / food-grade bottle that is easily recyclable.

[0034] The inventors have found that a satisfactory compromise is reached when the thickness of the inner layer is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall. If the bottle has a thickness of less than 20%, for example, about 10%, the bottle may not have satisfactory resistance to stress cracking. There is also a non-negligible risk that the hair care composition may come into contact with the bottle's intermediate layer. This contact may lead to migration of the hair care composition to the intermediate layer, its leakage, and / or contamination of the hair care composition with some additional compounds present in the intermediate layer. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, this may be due to challenges associated with manufacturing such thin layers and / or manufacturing tolerances for their relative thickness, which may result in areas covered by an inner layer with insufficient thickness or even no inner layer at all. Increasing the relative thickness of the inner layer improves compatibility between the bottle and the product without significantly compromising the reproducibility profile.

[0035] In one embodiment, the bottle of the present invention does not include an adhesive layer, and the adhesive is preferably selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers and modified polyolefins, such as modified polyolefins available from Mitsui Chemicals under the trade name ADMER.

[0036] In one embodiment, the bottle of the present invention does not include a barrier layer comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinylidene chloride, acrylic acid, acrylic acid copolymers, and ethylene copolymers.

[0037] In one embodiment, the bottle (1) comprises three superimposed layers.

[0038] In one embodiment, the bottle includes a body and a neck located on the body and defining an opening of the bottle, the body and neck being formed of a multi-layer bottle wall having a thickness in the range of 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, the multi-layer bottle wall including three superimposed layers including at least one intermediate layer disposed between an outer layer and an inner layer, the intermediate layer having a melting point of 0.45 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min as determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg). The outer layer comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.25 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, inclusive, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and the inner layer comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.25 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min, inclusive, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg).

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one of the inner layer (8), the intermediate layer (6), and the outer layer (7) preferably includes at least one colorant. In another embodiment, each of the inner layer (8), the intermediate layer (6), and the outer layer (7) preferably includes at least one colorant. The colorant is selected from the group consisting of dyes and pigments.

[0040] In one embodiment, the bottle has a volume in the range of 50 mL to 2000 mL, more preferably 50 mL to 1000 mL.

[0041] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a container including a bottle as described herein and a cap rotatably attached to the bottle. In a preferred embodiment, the cap is configured to cooperate with the neck of the bottle, particularly by screwing, to seal the bottle. The cap includes a sealing skirt that contacts the inside of the multi-layer wall of the bottle at the level of the neck.

[0042] In another embodiment, the cap preferably comprises polypropylene, which is preferably recycled polypropylene.

[0043] In another embodiment, the cap is preferably obtained by injection molding. In another embodiment, the bottle is preferably obtained by a coextrusion-blow molding process.

[0044] In one embodiment, the container preferably contains a hair care composition, preferably selected from the group consisting of shampoos, conditioners, masks and oils.

[0045] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for producing a bottle as described herein, the method comprising at least the steps of: (A) co-extruding and blow-molding an inner layer, an intermediate layer, and an outer layer, each as described herein, into a mold to obtain a bottle as described herein.

[0046] The bottle body extends between the base and a shoulder that connects to the neck. In one embodiment, the neck is manufactured in combination with the body during coextrusion and then blown into a mold. After the body is coextruded, the neck is not attached to the body. The base is formed by welding (or pinching) the coextruded tube before blow molding.

[0047] The thickness of the extrusion head is preferably adapted to provide the desired predetermined wall thickness of the bottle, for example, by making the middle layer thicker compared to the outer and inner layers, respectively. The method according to the invention allows the body and neck to be produced simultaneously in the same die. Therefore, it is not necessary to reattach or overinject the neck to the body after it has been produced, as is the case with the production of tubes. The temperature of the coextrusion head is preferably adjusted according to the nature of the polyethylene used to stabilize the shape of the bottle and maintain its technical and aesthetic properties.

[0048] The present invention is associated with at least one of the following advantages. Bottles according to the invention containing recycled polyethylene have satisfactory mechanical properties compared to similar bottles containing only virgin polyethylene. The bottle according to the invention has a stress crack resistance of more than 100 hours determined according to DIN 55457-1. -The bottle is made entirely of polyethylene, making it easy to recycle. The bottles are easily labelable and aesthetically appealing to customers. The bottle is cosmetic / food grade. The bottle is suitable for containing hair care compositions and has satisfactory product stability and shelf life.

[0049] Embodiment Below, a list of embodiments is provided to further illustrate the present disclosure, without intending to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments listed below. 1. A bottle (1) comprising a body (2) and a neck (3) located on the body (2) and defining an opening (4) of the bottle (1), The body (2) and neck (3) are formed by the multilayer wall (5) of the bottle (1), The multilayer wall (5) of the bottle (1) comprises at least three superimposed layers, including at least one intermediate layer (6) interposed between an outer layer (7) and an inner layer (8), The following features: The intermediate layer (6) comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min or more to 0.85 g / 10 min or less; The outer layer (7) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min or more to 0.35 g / 10 min or less, or recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min or more to 0.85 g / 10 min or less, The inner layer (8) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min or more to 0.35 g / 10 min or less. A bottle (1). 2. The bottle of embodiment 1, wherein the intermediate layer (6) comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.45 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, determined according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg). 3. The bottle of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the outer layer (7) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.25 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min inclusive, or recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.45 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min inclusive. 4. The bottle of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the inner layer (8) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.25 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min. 5. The bottle according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottle (2) is obtained by a coextrusion-blow molding process. 6. Recycled high-density polyethylene: 0.94g / cm 3 More than ~0.96g / cm 3 The following range, preferably 0.945 g / cm 3 More than ~0.955g / cm 3 6. The bottle of any one of claims 1 to 5, having a density in the following range: 7. High density polyethylene is 0.94g / cm 3 More than ~0.96g / cm 3 The following range, preferably 0.950 g / cm 3 More than ~0.960g / cm 3 7. The bottle of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, having a density in the following range: 8. The bottle according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the high density polyethylene contained in the inner layer (8) is the same as the high density polyethylene contained in the outer layer (7). 9. A bottle according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the multilayer wall (5) has a thickness in the range of 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, preferably 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. 10. A bottle according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the thickness of the intermediate layer (6) is in the range of 30% to 60% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5). 11. A bottle according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the thickness of the outer layer (7) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5). 12. A bottle according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the thickness of the inner layer (8) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5). 13. A bottle according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottle (1) comprises three superimposed layers. 14. The bottle of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the inner layer (8), the middle layer (6), and the outer layer (7) comprises at least one colorant. 15. The bottle according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bottle (1) does not comprise any adhesive layer. 16. The bottle of any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the bottle (1) has a stress crack resistance of 100 hours or more, determined according to DIN 55457-1. 17. A bottle according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the bottle (1) has a volume in the range of 50 mL to 2000 mL, preferably 50 mL to 1000 mL. 18. A container comprising a bottle (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17 and a cap (9) rotatably attached to the bottle (1). 19. The container of embodiment 18, wherein the cap (9) comprises polypropylene. 20. The container according to embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the cap (9) is obtained by injection molding. 21. The container of any one of embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the container contains a hair care composition. 22. The container of embodiment 21, wherein the hair care composition is selected from the group consisting of shampoos, conditioners, masks, and oils. 23. A method for producing a bottle (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, comprising: (A) co-extrusion and blow molding of the inner layer (8), the intermediate layer (6) and the outer layer (7) each according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16 into a mold to obtain the bottle (1) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17. The method includes at least [Example]

[0050] The following examples illustrate formulations and performance results according to the present invention. These examples are not intended to be inclusive of all aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, but rather to illustrate representative compositions and results. These examples are not intended to exclude equivalents and variations of the present invention that would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0051] Figure 1 shows a bottle (1) according to the present invention. The bottle (1) includes a neck (3) adapted to cooperate with a cap (9) to seal the bottle (1). In the example shown, the bottle (1) contains a hair care composition. The bottle (1) has a capacity of 250 mL, although the capacity can vary within the scope of the present invention.

[0052] The bottle (1) can be partially or completely covered with a visible label capable of conveying information about the hair care composition. The label can be affixed to the bottle by using an adhesive. The adhesive can be a renewable adhesive that is fully biodegradable and compostable, conforms to European Standard EN 13432, and is FDA approved. The label can also be affixed by a shrink sleeve or by melting the label onto the bottle (1) during manufacturing. Alternatively, the label can be molded directly into the material of the bottle (1). The label can optionally include a layer, for example, a metallized effect if the layer is composed of ink / metallization. Alternatively, the label can be printed directly onto the bottle (1).

[0053] The bottle (1) includes a body (2) and a neck (3) that defines an opening (4) for the bottle (1). The body (2) has a central portion of a general shape, such as a cylinder with a circular cross-section extending along a longitudinal axis. Opposite the neck (3), the body (2) has a base (10) that closes the bottle (1). The bottle (1) has a shoulder (11) that connects the body (2) to the neck (3). The neck (3) has external threads adapted to cooperate with internal threads on a cap (9) that can be screwed onto the neck (3) of the bottle (1) to close the container.

[0054] 3 shows the wall (5) of the bottle (1) including three superimposed layers, e.g., an outer layer (7), an inner layer (8), and an intermediate layer (6) disposed between the outer layer (7) and the inner layer (8). The inner layer (8) is intended to come into contact with the product contained in the bottle (1).

[0055] material Polymer 1 Krutene-HD white: Melt flow index according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) of 0.49 g / 10 min and 0.950 g / cm 3 and recycled high density polyethylene in pellet form, commercially available from Kruschitz GmbH, Austria, having a density of 1000 .mu.m. Polymer 2 BB2541: Melt flow index of 0.30 g / 10 min according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), and 0.954 g / cm 3 Virgin high density polymer commercially available from Borealis AG, Austria, having a density of

[0056] Example 1 Bottles were manufactured by carrying out the method according to the present invention. The volume of the bottle was 250 mL. The wall thickness of the bottle was 1.0 mm. The outer layer comprised 25% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 2. The inner layer comprised 45% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 2. The middle layer comprised 30% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 1. Each of the inner, middle, and outer layers was colored, and a label was printed directly on the bottle.

[0057] The bottles were visually undamaged. The bottles were filled and capped and showed no breakage or uncapping after a subsequent drop from a height of 1.5 m. The bottles were filled and capped with standard fluids and passed environmental stress crack resistance at 40°C for 3 months as determined in accordance with DIN 55457-1.

[0058] Example 2 Bottles were manufactured by carrying out the method according to the present invention. The volume of the bottle was 250 mL. The wall thickness of the bottle was 1.0 mm. The outer layer comprised 25% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 2. The inner layer comprised 25% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 2. The middle layer comprised 50% of the wall thickness and was made of polymer 1. Each of the inner, middle, and outer layers was colored, and a label was printed directly on the bottle.

[0059] The bottles were visually undamaged. The bottles were filled and capped and subsequently dropped from a height of 1.5 m without showing any breakage or uncapping. The bottles were filled and capped with standard fluids and passed environmental stress crack resistance at 40°C for 3 months as determined in accordance with DIN 55457-1.

[0060] Bottles containing walls made from recycled polyethylene lack stability. The examples show that incorporating a thin layer of virgin polyethylene into the walls of a bottle made from recycled polyethylene increases stability, resulting in a stable bottle suitable for commercial use. [Explanation of symbols]

[0061] 1 bottle 2. Torso 3 Neck 4 Openings 5 multilayer wall 6. Middle class 7 Outer layer 8 Inner layer 9 Cap 10 bottom 11 Shoulder

Claims

1. A bottle (1), A bottle (1) comprising a body (2) and a neck (3) located on the body (2) and defining an opening (4) of the bottle (1), The body (2) and neck (3) are formed by the multilayer wall (5) of the bottle (1), The multilayer wall (5) of the bottle (1) comprises an outer layer (7) and an inner layer (8) interposed between at least one intermediate layer (6). at least three superposed layers comprising Features include: the intermediate layer (6) comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min or more to 0.85 g / 10 min or less, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg); the outer layer (7) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min or more to 0.35 g / 10 min or less, or recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.40 g / 10 min or more to 0.85 g / 10 min or less; The inner layer (8) comprises a high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg) in the range of 0.20 g / 10 min or more to 0.35 g / 10 min or less. A bottle (1) having

2. 2. The bottle of claim 1, wherein the intermediate layer (6) comprises recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index in the range of 0.45 g / 10 min to 0.85 g / 10 min, inclusive, determined according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg).

3. 3. The bottle according to claim 1, wherein the outer layer (7) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of ≧0.25 g / 10 min to ≦0.35 g / 10 min, or recycled high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined in accordance with ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of ≧0.45 g / 10 min to ≦0.85 g / 10 min.

4. 4. The bottle according to claim 1, wherein the inner layer (8) comprises high-density polyethylene having a melt flow index, determined according to ISO 1133 (190°C, 2.16 kg), in the range of 0.25 g / 10 min to 0.35 g / 10 min.

5. Recycled high density polyethylene is 0.94 g / cm ３ More than 0.96g / cm ３ The following range, preferably 0.945 g / cm ３ More than 0.955g / cm ３ 5. The bottle of claim 1, having a density in the following range:

6. High density polyethylene is 0.94 g / cm ３ More than 0.96g / cm ３ The following range, preferably 0.950 g / cm ３ More than 0.960g / cm ３ 6. The bottle of claim 1, having a density in the following range:

7. 7. A bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the high density polyethylene contained in the inner layer (8) is the same as the high density polyethylene contained in the outer layer (7).

8. Bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the multilayer wall (5) has a thickness in the range of ≧0.6 mm to ≦1.4 mm, preferably in the range of ≧0.8 mm to ≦1.2 mm.

9. Bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the thickness of the intermediate layer (6) is in the range of 30% to 60% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5).

10. Bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the thickness of the outer layer (7) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5).

11. Bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the thickness of the inner layer (8) is in the range of 20% to 40% of the total thickness of the multilayer wall (5).

12. 12. The bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the bottle (1) has a stress crack resistance of 100 hours or more, determined according to DIN 55457-1.

13. A container comprising a bottle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and a cap (9) rotatably attached to the bottle (1).

14. 14. The container of claim 13 containing a hair care composition.

15. A method for producing a bottle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising at least the step of: (A) co-extrusion and blow-molding an inner layer (8), an intermediate layer (6) and an outer layer (7), each according to any one of claims 1 to 16, into a mold to obtain a bottle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Images