Compostable top lid structure for beverage preparation capsules

Abstract

A capsule for preparing a beverage includes a body having a sidewall defining a chamber for containing a beverage ingredient and a rim portion defining an opening in the sidewall, an injection wall for injecting a fluid into the chamber to prepare a beverage upon interaction of the fluid with the beverage ingredient, and a delivery wall connected to the body to close the chamber, the delivery wall comprising a carrier layer made of a biodegradable material and a filter layer on the opposite side of the carrier layer from the chamber, the delivery wall having a work of rupture of 50 to 90 N·mm in a wet state, the wet state being defined by a tensile test in accordance with ASTM D882 after wetting a sample within a gauge length with 1.25 mL of water at room temperature, and the wet state being 20% ​​lower than in a dry state, the dry state being defined by a standard test in accordance with the same standard.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine, a system for preparing a beverage, and the use of a capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Single-serving beverage capsules for beverage preparation machines are known in the art. These capsules are commonly used to dispense individual servings of beverages such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and have gained popularity due to their fresh taste, variety of flavors, and convenience in beverage preparation.

[0003] Typically, a capsule containing beverage ingredients is inserted into a capsule holder of a beverage preparation machine, the capsule holder is closed, and beverage preparation begins. A fluid, such as water or milk, is delivered to the capsule to interact with the beverage ingredients contained therein to produce the desired beverage. When a sufficient amount of fluid fills the capsule, the capsule opens under the pressure of the fluid, releasing the prepared beverage. For example, capsule opening can be achieved by forcing the capsule's extraction surface against an opening structure provided on the capsule holder with a force provided by increasing the pressure of the fluid inside the capsule, so that the extraction surface tears when a breaking stress is reached. The opening structure can be several concave and convex elements, for example, pyramidal elements, on which the extraction surface extends and which tear under the influence of the internal pressure of the fluid. Such pressure-controlled beverage preparation has the advantage of being able to produce high-quality beverages.

[0004] However, numerous parameters and dynamic effects can influence the opening process of a capsule on an extraction surface having the above-mentioned opening structures, and therefore it is difficult to achieve repeatability and consistency in the opening process, which can have a negative impact on the outcome of the finished beverage.

[0005] In particular, it has been found that the extraction surface needs to exhibit a certain degree of rigidity in order to ensure pressure buildup within the capsule while avoiding collapse of the capsule during the opening process. Conversely, the extraction surface should be configured so that it can be torn by the opening structure during the opening process. It is also desirable that particles and fibers from the beverage ingredients are retained inside the capsule in order to avoid not only contamination of the prepared beverage but also blockage of the capsule opening and / or opening structure provided for dispensing the prepared beverage from the beverage preparation machine.

[0006] In the prior art, these technical challenges are addressed by forming the extraction surface of a membrane made of aluminum with a very precisely controlled thickness, specifically about 30-40 micrometers. Aluminum offers several advantages, including high pressure resistance, durability, flexibility, low weight, long shelf life, and no change in the taste of the prepared beverage. In addition to aluminum capsules, some consumers are looking forward to capsules made from alternative materials, especially compostable materials.

[0007] Therefore, in recent years, various attempts have been made to replace the aluminum used in capsules with alternative materials. For example, bioplastics made from cornstarch or dried pulp made from sugarcane fiber have been proposed for use as capsule materials. However, the drawback of such materials is that they do not have the same material property advantages as currently used materials such as aluminum. For example, capsules made from alternative materials often have a limited shelf life because they do not provide the same reliable oxygen and moisture barrier as aluminum.

[0008] In particular, designing brewing surfaces using alternative materials can be challenging because the design principles and solutions applied to previous aluminum brewing surfaces cannot be simply transferred to these new materials. For example, an approach that simply replaces known brewing surfaces formed of aluminum with paper-based materials has proven unsuccessful because the quality, flavor reproducibility, and beverage consistency of the prepared beverage could not be compared to the high standards set by known aluminum-based brewing surfaces.

[0009] Furthermore, even though some attempts to provide alternative compostable capsules have begun to be successful, the structure and design of the capsule's top membrane (also called the delivery membrane) remains a challenge. Indeed, capsule delivery membranes need to be developed using materials that are biodegradable and preferably compostable. Furthermore, the delivery membrane needs to incorporate a material that allows for a tight seal against the capsule rim, while still having a structure that provides for efficient piercing / opening of the delivery membrane by the opening structure of the beverage preparation machine during the capsule opening process, and optimized extraction.

[0010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a capsule having a construction and design that facilitates the use of compostable materials throughout the capsule, while maintaining and / or exceeding the standards of quality and continuity of the capsule itself and the prepared beverage as set by comparable aluminum capsules.

[0011] These and other objects which become apparent on reading the detailed description of the invention are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the invention. Summary of the Invention

[0012] As used herein, the terms "machine" or "device" may refer to an electrically operated device or machine capable of preparing beverages and / or foods from precursor or raw materials, or from pre-precursor materials to precursor materials that can subsequently be prepared into beverages and / or foods. The machine may perform such preparation by one or more of the following processes: diluting, heating, pressurizing, cooling, mixing, frothing, dissolving, steeping, infusing, extracting, conditioning, infusing, grinding, and other similar processes. The machine may be sized for use on a countertop; for example, the preparation machine may be less than 70 cm in length, width, and height. As used herein, the term "preparing" with respect to beverages and / or foods may refer to at least partial preparation of the beverage and / or food (e.g., a beverage may be prepared in whole or in part by the machine, and an end user may manually add additional fluids, including milk and / or water, prior to consumption). Preferably in the present invention, the beverage extraction device is a Nespresso Original Line extraction machine, for example as described in one or more of EP Patent Applications 0512468, 0512470, 1654966 or EP Patent Application 2142054.

[0013] The Nespresso® Original Line system, when used with aluminium capsules, is disclosed together with its opening system in, for example, one or more of EP 0 512 468, EP 0 512 470, EP 1 646 305 or EP 1 165 398. These references also disclose details of the construction, manufacture and / or extraction of such aluminium capsules and / or closures.

[0014] In such a system, the capsule is intended to be inserted into an extraction device in which it can be perforated and injected with a fluid that passes through the layer of coffee contained in the capsule, which then opens against a support of the device that comprises a raised element (in the form of a truncated pyramid) under the influence of the pressure of the fluid that enters and rises in the capsule.

[0015] As used herein, the terms "container" or "capsule" may refer to any configuration for containing a precursor material, e.g., a pre-portioned amount, such as a single serving. The container may have a maximum capacity such that it can contain only a single serving of precursor material. The container may be single-use and, for example, may undergo a physical change after the preparation process, including one or more of: perforation to supply a fluid, e.g., a liquid such as water, to the precursor material; perforation to supply a beverage / food from the container; and opening by a user to extract the precursor material. The container may be configured to operate with a container processing unit of the machine and may, for example, include a flange for alignment and for passing the container through or placing the container on the unit. The container may include a rupture portion configured to rupture when subjected to a certain pressure to deliver the beverage / food. The container may have a membrane for closing the container. The container may have various shapes, including one or more of a frusto-conical, cylindrical, disc, hemispherical, and other similar shapes. The container can be formed from a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, wood pulp, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the container is a compostable capsule, preferably made of cellulose, and preferably fabricated as a molded cellulose or wood pulp capsule. The material can be selected to be food-safe and to withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container may be defined as a capsule, and the capsule may have an internal volume of 20 to 100 mL. The capsule may include a coffee capsule, for example, a Nespresso® capsule (including the Classic / Original Line, Professional, or other capsules).

[0016] As used herein, the terms "system" or "beverage or food preparation system" may refer to a combination of two or more of a beverage or food preparation machine, a container, a server system, and peripheral devices.

[0017] As used herein, the term "beverage" may refer to any substance that can be processed into a drinkable substance, which may be chilled or hot. A beverage may be one or more of a solid, liquid, gel, or paste. A beverage may be one or a combination of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, juice, vitamin composition, herbal tea / infusion, infused / flavored water; and other substances. As used herein, the term "food" may refer to any substance that can be processed into nutrients for consumption, which may be chilled or hot. A food may be one or more of a solid, liquid, gel, or paste. A food may include yogurt, mousse, parfait, soup, ice cream, sorbet, custard, smoothie, or other substance. It is understood that there is some overlap between the definitions of beverage and food; for example, a beverage may be a food, and thus, a machine that is said to prepare a beverage or a food does not exclude the preparation of both. Preferably, the beverage is coffee, including roast and ground coffee.

[0018] As used herein, the terms "precursor material" or "raw material" may refer to any material that can be processed to form part or all of a beverage or food product. The precursor material may be one or more of a powder, crystal, liquid, gel, solid, etc. Examples of beverage-forming precursor materials include ground coffee, milk powder; tea leaves, cocoa powder, vitamin compositions, herbs for forming herbal teas / infusions, flavorings, and other similar materials. Examples of food-forming precursor materials include dried vegetables or stocks as anhydrous soup powders; powdered milk, flour-based powders including custard; powdered yogurt or ice cream, and other similar materials. Precursor material may also refer to any pre-precursor material that can be processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can be subsequently processed into a beverage and / or food product. In one example, the pre-precursor material includes coffee beans that can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) into the precursor material. Preferably, within the disclosed extraction process, the precursor material is roast and ground coffee.

[0019] As used herein, the term "fluid" (with respect to the fluid supplied by the fluid regulation system) may include one or more of a liquid, such as water, milk, etc.

[0020] As used herein, the term "wood pulp-based" may refer to a material or portion of a material forming a container, the container being one or more of: porous; fibrous; cellulosic; formed from cellulosic material; formed from natural cellulosic material; formed from reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material; nonwoven; composed entirely of or of a wood pulp composition; and wet-formed. The thickness of the wood-based material may be 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm or about 0.5 mm. The wood-based material may be 200 to 400 gsm.

[0021] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" may refer to a cloth-like material that is neither woven nor knitted. Nonwoven materials may be made from fibers bonded together. As used herein, the term "porous" may refer to a material configured to have interstices that allow water (or other liquids) to pass through. As used herein, the term "fibrous" may refer to a material composed of fibers, which may be present in one or more of the material's components. As used herein, the terms "cellulosic" or "cellulosic material" may refer to traditional wood and / or non-wood materials, such as abaca, sisal, jute, bleached and unbleached softwood and hardwood species. Cellulosic materials may include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. As used herein, the term "natural cellulosic material" may refer to traditional wood materials that have not been regenerated. As used herein, the term "reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material" may refer to natural cellulosic materials that have undergone processing, including reconstitution or regeneration, and examples include rayon and lyocell. As used herein, the term "wood pulp" may refer to a lignocellulosic fibrous material that may be prepared by mechanically or chemically separating cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or cloth scraps. As used herein, the term "wet forming" may refer to a process of forming from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers may be heated and pressed in a mold to harden the material and remove water therefrom.

[0022] The capsules of the present invention have the same design as the Nespresso® Original Line capsules and are made entirely (capsule body and delivery wall) of compostable material, preferably cellulosic material, more preferably pulped cellulosic material. The capsules are in the form of a frusto-conical cup, for example, with a diameter of 2-5 cm and an axial length of 2-4 cm.

[0023] In alternative embodiments not shown, the capsule may have other cross-sectional shapes, including square, other polygonal, or oval; the closure member may be a rigid structure or other non-membrane structure; the flange may alternatively be connected to the top surface of the closure member, for example by crimping; the sidewall may alternatively be configured to include a reverse taper, depth registration, or curve; the base may alternatively be configured to include a flat or curved shape; the flange portion may be connected to the reservoir rather than being integrally formed therewith; the closure member may be configured as the reservoir, for example with a cavity; and the flange portion may be omitted, for example the closure member may be directly connected to the reservoir.

[0024] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine. In these respects, the present invention provides a capsule as claimed in claim 1.

[0025] More particularly, a capsule may be understood as a container for containing a substance for preparing a beverage, and may preferably form a case or container surrounding the substance.

[0026] The capsule body has a three-dimensional shape. It defines a chamber, which may be, for example, a compartment, cavity, or hollow space within the capsule, via (at least a portion of) its sidewall. The chamber generally contains a beverage or food ingredient or a substance for beverage preparation. The capsule body also includes a rim portion defining an opening in the sidewall. The capsule further includes an inlet wall suitable for injecting a fluid into the chamber. Injection of the fluid may result in an interaction between the fluid and the substance, which may include any type of chemical and / or physical reaction between the substance and the fluid, such as wetting, infusion, extraction, dissolution, and / or any other type of corresponding interaction that produces a beverage product. The capsule further includes a delivery wall connected to the capsule body to close the chamber. For example, it may be envisioned that the interior space of the capsule may be (completely) surrounded on all sides by the container body (sidewall), the inlet wall, and the delivery wall, such that a chamber for receiving the substance is preferably formed (and closed). This may provide a capsule that can be filled with a substance for beverage preparation and used with known capsule machines. The substance can be protected from deterioration and external influences such as oxidation or moisture, and the flavor of the substance can be maintained inside the capsule even when the substance is stored for long periods of time.

[0027] The delivery wall of the present invention is made of a biodegradable material and includes, in layers, a carrier layer, a filter layer, and a bonding layer. Therefore, the delivery wall can include different portions configured as plies, slats, tiers, or layers. This allows the delivery wall to be provided with any number of layers, including filter layers, each of which can provide a desired function, such as a layer for sealing, a (moisture / gas (oxygen)) barrier (additional layer), and / or a layer for purifying and / or screening specific particles or contents from the prepared beverage before it leaves the capsule (chamber). Here, the delivery wall can have a variety of (layer) configurations, forms, and shapes.

[0028] The carrier layer (also called retaining layer) of the delivery wall is arranged so that it can be opened upon pressure increase inside the capsule and / or upon interaction with an opening element of a capsule holder of a capsule chamber of a beverage production machine under the influence of an increased pressure of a fluid injected into the capsule, e.g., by relative movement between the respective elements. Here, the opening element can have various configurations, forms and shapes and can include a plurality of concave-convex elements, e.g., pyramidal elements. This design makes it possible to adjust the design of the delivery wall to technical needs.

[0029] The filter layer is provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer from the chamber to filter particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the delivery wall. The filter layer is provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer from the chamber. Surprisingly, it has been found that the specific order and orientation of the carrier layer and the filter layer relative to the capsule body as defined in the present invention leads to several improvements. For example, it is observed that the pressure profile during beverage preparation is more consistent and reproducible. Furthermore, it has been found that this configuration improves the formation and extraction of crema in the beverage and reduces the concentration of particles and residues of substances such as roast and ground coffee.

[0030] As a result of the above, the carrier layer may face the chamber or may be arranged closer to the chamber than the filter layer, where for example the expression "facing" may be understood as pointing towards the respective reference object, but not necessarily directly on the respective reference object.

[0031] Each of the filter layer and carrier layer is made from a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material, which can lead to a more direct recovery of the organic material inside the capsule as well as the capsule material itself.

[0032] As mentioned above, the delivery wall also comprises at least one bonding layer, which makes it possible to at least partially join the filter layer and the carrier layer to one another on opposite sides, preferably by adhesive bonding or heat sealing.

[0033] As proposed, at least one tie layer is provided between the carrier layer and the filter layer to ensure efficient adhesion of the two aforementioned layers.

[0034] The tie layer is a biodegradable, preferably compostable material such as vegetable starch or acrylic adhesive, and contributes to the biodegradability of the complete capsule.

[0035] According to the present invention, the delivery wall comprises the following work of rupture: 50 to 90 N·mm in the wet state, where the wet state is defined according to a tensile test in accordance with ASTM D882 after wetting the specimen within the gauge length with 1.25 mL of water at room temperature, and At least 20% lower in the wet state than in the dry state, the dry state being defined according to standard testing in accordance with ASTM D882.

[0036] ASTM D882 is used to measure tensile properties, including ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, tensile energy to break, and tensile modulus, of thin material sheets and films. Samples are cut into strips that must be at least eight times longer than they are wide.

[0037] Furthermore, the proposed delivery wall comprises a tensile strength in the wet state that is at least 80% lower than in the dry state.

[0038] More specifically, the delivery wall has an average maximum difference in work of rupture between the machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD), defined as the MD and CD, respectively, in the wet state of less than 40%.

[0039] As known to those skilled in the art, MD and CD are known as machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD) because measurements of such material properties are generally made for a particular material at different orientations of the material sense with the material sample placed on a machine in both the machine direction (MD) and the cross (or transverse) direction (CD).

[0040] According to a further feature, the delivery wall has a maximum difference in bond strength in the dry state, measured according to ASTM F904, of 15% between the MD and CD.

[0041] ASTM F904 is the international name for the standard entitled "Standard Test Method for Comparison of Bond Strength or Ply Adhesion of Similar Laminates Made from Flexible Materials." As explained in the standard, "This test method encompasses procedures for comparing the bond strength or ply adhesion of similar laminates made from flexible materials such as cellulose, paper, plastic film, and foil. This includes laminates produced by various processes: adhesive lamination, extrusion coating, extrusion lamination, and coextrusion."

[0042] The bonding properties of the delivery wall are similar in different directions, with a maximum difference of 15%, which allows for comparable bonding strength in MD and CD directions.

[0043] Additionally, the delivery wall has a maximum bond strength difference in the dry state of at least 0.9 N / 15 mm in both the MD and CD directions, measured according to ASTM F904.

[0044] According to a possible feature, the carrier layer is made from a compostable material and / or a material with a defined, preferably closed, fiber structure, such as at least 50% by weight of softwood pulp, cellulose fibers or a fiber structure corresponding to paper. In a preferred solution, the carrier layer is made from a paper-based material.

[0045] When the carrier layer is cellulosic, it may have a basis weight of 20 to 150 g / m2, preferably 30 to 100 g / m2.

[0046] Alternatively, the closed fiber structure may correspond to polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polyhydroxybutyrates (PHBs) and copolymers, polybutylene succinates (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyesters, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polymers or copolymers in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, combinations and / or laminates of the aforementioned materials.

[0047] According to the use of the capsule in a beverage preparation machine in which a quantity of fluid can be delivered into the capsule under pressure, the carrier layer, preferably the material of the carrier layer, is configured to be resilient against a build-up pressure in the chamber of 1 to 20 bar, more preferably 10 to 20 bar, most preferably 12 to 18 bar.

[0048] The properties of the carrier layer can be adjusted as needed, for example, the tensile strength of the carrier layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of the material.

[0049] According to further possible features, the filter layer is made from compostable and / or nonwoven materials such as wood or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or the filter layer (310) has a basis weight of 10 to 150 g / m, preferably 20 to 100 g / m.

[0050] Having a filter layer with a basis weight of 10 to 150 g / m, preferably 20 to 100 g / m, makes it possible to ensure efficient filtration of any particles of the substance enclosed in the capsule chamber, e.g. roast and ground coffee.

[0051] The properties of the filter layer can thus be set by defining the areal density of the material, i.e., the mass per unit area. For example, the tensile strength of the filter layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of the material and / or by using a (non-woven) material containing fibers of a defined length and / or with a defined fiber bond. Furthermore, the filtration capacity and / or porosity of the filter layer can be modified, e.g., reduced to a smaller particle size, by appropriately setting the material properties of the filter layer. This allows the filter layer to be tailored to the specific requirements of beverage preparation.

[0052] As mentioned above, each of the filter layer and carrier layer is made from different biodegradable, preferably compostable, materials, and preferably the different materials are distinguished in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0053] Here, the expression "biodegradable material" can be understood as any material that can be decomposed by (the action of) living organisms (microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi or algae) into environmentally harmless products. This process can be carried out in an environment in the presence of oxygen (aerobic) or in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic). This can be understood to mean, for example, that composting can be carried out without concern. In particular, at the end of the composting process, there are no residues of material that could be problematic for the environment, or any non-biodegradable components.

[0054] Examples of biodegradable materials may be different plant-based materials such as wood, bamboo, bamboo fibers, cellulose, cellulose pulp, wood pulp, sugarcane pulp, paper and / or cardboard, etc. Furthermore, the bioplastic family, such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polylactide (PLA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), cellulose acetate and starch and / or compounds of the above-mentioned materials are other examples.

[0055] International standards, such as EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400, specify the technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials. Biodegradability can be tested according to standards such as ISO 14855, ISO 17556, or ISO 14851. For example, one test requires that at least 90% of the material in question be biologically degraded under controlled conditions within six months to be considered "industrially compostable." Similar tests also exist to allow for home composting certification.

[0056] Similarly, the tie layer is a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material. The tie layer may be made from or comprise a plant-based starch or an acrylic adhesive and have a basis weight of 1 to 5 g / m2.

[0057] In a further embodiment, the delivery wall comprises an adhesive layer, for example on the side of the carrier layer facing towards the chamber, for joining, preferably sealing, preferably heat sealing, the delivery wall to the rim portion of the capsule body. The adhesive layer may be applied in one or more layers with a total basis weight of the adhesive layer being 0.5 to 20 g / m to provide sufficient adhesive material for complete bonding / sealing of (the periphery of) the delivery wall on the capsule rim portion.

[0058] Furthermore, the adhesive layer has a total thickness comprised between 1 and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 and 15 micrometers.

[0059] The total thickness of the adhesive layer is limited compared to the thickness of the carrier layer (in the range of 10 to 150 micrometers, preferably 30 to 70 micrometers).

[0060] In the proposed embodiment, the adhesive layer covers up to 75% of the surface of the delivery wall and is applied around the periphery of the delivery wall at least along the periphery of the delivery wall over a radial distance D of 3 mm to 12 mm, preferably 5 to 10 mm.

[0061] Preferably, the adhesive layer covers up to 70% of the surface of the delivery wall, particularly the carrier layer, more particularly the protective layer, more preferably, the adhesive layer covers up to 50%, even more preferably, up to 30%, and most preferably, up to 20% of the surface of the delivery wall, particularly the carrier layer, more particularly the protective layer.

[0062] The specific location of the adhesive layer over at least the entire periphery of the carrier layer allows its efficient sealing onto the rim portion of the capsule body, and its limited extension of the delivery wall over the surface of the carrier layer ensures that the delivery wall interacts correctly with the opening element of the beverage preparation machine without physical and / or chemical interference.

[0063] The direct interaction of the carrier layer (and subsequent layers) with the opening element, with the limited presence of an adhesive layer, allows for more effective opening of the carrier layer by the opening element.

[0064] The limitation of the adhesive layer on the surface of the carrier layer allows for an improved and controlled interaction of the delivery wall with the opening element of the beverage preparation machine.

[0065] In the proposed configuration, the opening of the delivery wall is improved, especially when the surface of the delivery wall covered by the adhesive layer is low (e.g., less than 50% of the surface of the carrier layer / protective layer), and better and more uniform extraction results can be achieved.

[0066] As mentioned above, the surface of the delivery wall (or carrier layer) covered by the adhesive layer is preferably limited to the periphery / perimeter of the delivery wall (or carrier layer) with a radial extension comprised between 3 mm and 12 mm from the periphery of the delivery wall (or carrier layer).

[0067] Limiting the extension of the adhesive layer to the periphery of the delivery wall is responsible for improving the opening of the delivery wall of the capsule when used in a beverage preparation machine as described above.

[0068] In a preferred feature, at least one adhesive layer is hydrophobic.

[0069] Furthermore, the adhesive layer is water-insoluble to avoid interaction with the moisture content of the beverage substance. Indeed, the beverage substance, preferably roast and ground coffee, has a resulting moisture content of between 2-4%, and it is essential to avoid this moisture reacting and degrading the adhesive layer. In this way, the adhesive layer remains intact.

[0070] Like the carrier layer and the filter layer, the at least one adhesive layer is a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material. For example, the adhesive layer may be a vegetable starch or acrylic adhesive.

[0071] Preferably, at least one adhesive layer is made of a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer. In general, this can have the advantageous effect that the combination of two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties produces a structure with different properties resulting from each of the individual components.

[0072] In the proposed configuration, the opening of the delivery wall is improved and better and more uniform extraction results can be achieved, especially when the surface of the delivery wall covered by the adhesive layer is low (less than 50% of the surface of the carrier layer).

[0073] According to a further feature, the delivery wall, preferably the carrier layer, further comprises at least one barrier layer for providing preferably two-way barrier properties against moisture and / or liquid and / or gaseous substances, preferably oxygen, entering and / or leaving the chamber.

[0074] The proposed barrier layer preferably extends between the carrier layer and the at least one adhesive layer.

[0075] Furthermore, at least one barrier layer is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a polymer or copolymer in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the above materials.

[0076] Preferably, the barrier layer is made of a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer, since the expected physicochemical property of the barrier layer is to protect the substance enclosed in the chamber from moisture and / or oxygen, and not to have any filtering or retention properties.

[0077] According to a further feature, the delivery wall, preferably the carrier layer, further comprises at least one protective layer extending between the carrier layer, preferably the at least one barrier layer, and the at least one adhesive layer, for protecting the at least one barrier layer, thereby ensuring that the barrier layer is fully protected.

[0078] At least one protective layer is preferably water-insoluble to avoid degradation due to the moisture content of the substance enclosed in the chamber. The protective layer is preferably made of a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer to ensure proper separation of the physicochemical properties of the different layers.

[0079] At least one protective layer is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material such as plant-based starch or an acrylic adhesive.

[0080] Preferably, the different layers forming the delivery wall, i.e., the filter layer, tie layer, carrier layer, barrier layer, protective layer, and adhesive layer, each of which may be formed from one or more layers, are made from different biodegradable, preferably compostable, materials.

[0081] In addition to the above, the delivery wall may comprise additional layers in addition to the filter layer, carrier layer and adhesive layer, which may be inserted between the filter layer, carrier and adhesive layers as needed and depending on their function.

[0082] The different layers are preferably made from different materials that differ in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0083] By providing at least the carrier layer and filter layer from two different materials, the delivery wall can be provided as a composite structure. However, it is also conceivable that the delivery wall can include multiple different layers, preferably made from different materials. This can advantageously result in a structure with different additional properties resulting from each of the individual components by combining two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties. This allows the capsule's interface with the exterior to be tailored to the technical needs of the application. For example, by providing each layer with a different tensile strength, the pressure built up inside the capsule can be controlled and defined as needed. This allows, for example, the capsule to be designed to produce a beverage according to the recipe specifications. Furthermore, by providing two layers from materials with different fiber configurations, it is possible to tailor the material properties related to the interaction of the delivery wall with the prepared beverage to the individual application, such as defining the filtration capacity of the delivery wall. Furthermore, differences in the orientation of the individual layers of the delivery wall can result in different stresses in the layers, which can be taken into account in the above-mentioned configuration by selecting different materials. For example, the material of one of the layers may fracture under less pressure than the material of another layer, but the structure may be held together by the combined resistance of each material, which may support each other under the influence of pressure.

[0084] In particular, different layers of the delivery wall, i.e., one or more of the carrier layer, filter layer, bonding layer, adhesive layer, barrier layer, and protective layer, are laminated with other layers of the delivery wall. By laminating one or more of the aforementioned layers, it is possible to produce a blank foil that is cut or punched to form the delivery wall. Depending on the dimensions of the blank, several delivery walls may be formed from the same blank.

[0085] The proposed capsule body and / or inlet wall have a layered and / or laminated structure, preferably the capsule body and / or inlet wall are preferably made from laminated molded pulp fibers, and / or the capsule body and inlet wall consist of separate parts or are integrally formed, for example as a one-piece part, which opens up different manufacturing options for the capsule body and / or inlet wall.

[0086] A further aspect of the invention relates to a system for preparing a beverage, comprising a capsule as described above containing beverage ingredients, preferably roast and ground coffee, and a beverage production machine.

[0087] The proposed system utilizes a beverage production machine including a fluid supply device capable of supplying a fixed amount of fluid, such as water, to a capsule at a first end of the capsule at a pressure of 2 to 20 bar, and a brewing chamber including a first portion for accommodating the capsule and a second portion for closing the brewing chamber. The second portion of the brewing chamber includes a capsule holder having an opening structure (with an opening element) for engaging the capsule at the second end of the side wall when the brewing chamber is closed. The opening structure has a textured surface that faces the capsule's delivery wall, preferably a filter layer, in use.

[0088] According to the proposed embodiment, the delivery wall, preferably the filter layer of the capsule when used in a closed brewing chamber, is opened with reduced tearing due to the uneven surface of the opening structure compared to capsules with an aluminium delivery wall.

[0089] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a capsule as described above for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine having a capsule holder, so that the beverage can be prepared in an advantageous and ecologically beneficial way. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0090] The present invention is further described with reference to the following examples, it being understood that the invention as claimed is in no way intended to be limited by these examples.

[0091] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic exploded view of a capsule according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 shows an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the delivery wall of the beverage container of FIG. 1; [Figure 3] 3 is a graph showing the work of rupture of the delivery membrane of the capsule of FIG. 2 in the MD and CD in wet and dry states. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing the tensile strength in the MD and CD of the delivery membrane of the capsule of the present invention in the wet and dry states. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the bond strength in the MD and CD directions in the dry state of the delivery membrane of the capsule of the present invention. [Figure 6] 3 shows an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the delivery wall of the beverage container of FIG. 1, illustrating an improved delivery wall that integrates the delivery wall structure of FIG. 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] As used herein, the words "comprises," "comprising," and similar words should not be construed in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean "including, but not limited to."

[0093] Any reference herein to a prior art document should not be taken as an acknowledgement that such prior art is well known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0094] The figures show different views and aspects and features of an inventive capsule 100 and related components for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine according to the invention. Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a capsule according to one embodiment of the invention, and Figure 2 shows in a schematic cross-section the structure of the delivery wall of the capsule of the proposed invention.

[0095] capsule The capsule 100 may have a composite structure and / or may be made from composite materials, which may preferably be entirely made from biodegradable and / or compostable materials.

[0096] The capsule 100 comprises a three-dimensional capsule body 200 having a side wall 210. The capsule body 200 may have any shape or form, for example, the capsule body may be in the form of a cup-shaped body. For example, the capsule body 200 may have a form suitable for the capsule 100 to be inserted into a capsule holder of a (known) beverage preparation machine, for example a Nespresso® beverage preparation machine. The capsule body 200 may have a frustoconical, truncated, cup or bowl-shaped form. The capsule body 200 may have a circular cross section, for example, to absorb pressure-related forces acting on the capsule body 200.

[0097] The capsule body 200 includes a sidewall 210. The sidewall 210 defines a chamber 250 inside the capsule 100. The sidewall 210 may be configured to enclose a continuous space inside the capsule body 100. This is exemplarily shown in FIG.

[0098] The chamber 250 is configured to receive and store a substance 500 for the preparation of a beverage. Here, the substance 500 can be any type of substance (solid, liquid, at least partially soluble and / or permeable) having a specific or defined chemical structure. Examples of the substance 500 can be roast and ground coffee, instant coffee, tea leaves, syrup concentrates, fruit extract concentrates, chocolate products, dried food substances, and / or combinations thereof, depending on the extraction process performed. Thus, examples of beverages that can be prepared can be coffee- or chocolate-based beverages, or other similar types of food products. However, the above examples of substances 500 and beverages should not be considered an exhaustive list. Instead, various other examples are contemplated.

[0099] The capsule body 200 may have an opening 230 to the chamber 250. The opening 230 may be located on at least one of both ends of the capsule body 200. For example, the substance 500 may be filled into the interior of the capsule 100 through the opening 230. The substance 500 may completely fill the chamber 250. However, there may be a free space between the opening 230 and the filling level of the substance 500, and the free space may be filled with an inert gas to keep the substance 500 fresh. Preferably, a rim portion 211 of the side wall 210 may define the opening 230. The rim portion 211 may have the form of a flange and extend from the side wall 210, preferably in a direction away from the chamber 250. During operation, the capsule 100 may be placed on the rim portion 211 inside a capsule holder of a beverage production machine.

[0100] The sidewall 210 may be provided to form a continuous mantle surface of the capsule body 200. For example, the sidewall 210 may have an inner surface facing the chamber 250 and an outer surface facing away from the chamber 250.

[0101] A protective layer 400 for providing a preferably two-way barrier against moisture and / or oxygen for the substance 500 may be provided on the capsule body 200 and / or the sidewall 210. In FIG. 1 , the protective layer 400 is exemplarily shown as being provided as a liner on the inner surface of the sidewall 210 and may extend up to and over the rim portion 211. Additionally or alternatively, the protective layer 400 may be provided on the outer surface of the sidewall 210. Additionally or alternatively, the protective layer may be provided as a coating having similar barrier properties. Here, the protective layer 400 may be made from a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material such as a biopolymer or bioplastic family such as PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PLA, PBAT, cellulose acetate, starch, PVOH, etc., a polymer in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, and a compound or laminate of any of the above-mentioned materials. Preferably, the protective layer 400 may be made from a food-safe material (FCS, FCM).

[0102] For example, the capsule body 200 may be made from (laminated) (wet / dry) molded pulp fibers. Preferably, the capsule body 200 may be made from biodegradable and / or compostable materials. The capsule body 200 may be made from food-safe materials (FCS, FCM). The capsule body 200 may have a layered and / or laminated structure. For example, the capsule body 200 may be relatively hard or rigid so as not to collapse during operation in a beverage production machine or during storage. The layered and / or laminated design may provide the capsule body 200 with additional hardness and / or rigidity compared to other designs. Here, the molded pulp fibers may be a composite material having an additional substrate, such as a biodegradable resin, laminated on the capsule body 200. For example, the protective layer 400 may be provided to form a laminated structure of the capsule body 200. However, it is also conceivable that the capsule body 200 may include, for example, an additional laminated film or layer in addition to the protective layer 400.

[0103] Alternatively, the capsule body 200 may be made from a paper-based material or a paper-based material with a laminate specifically shaped to define the chamber 250 .

[0104] The capsule 100 comprises an injection wall 220 for injecting a fluid into the chamber 250 in order to prepare a beverage upon interaction of the fluid with the substance 500. This is exemplarily shown in FIG.

[0105] The injection wall 220 may be provided at the end of the capsule body 200 opposite the opening 230. The injection wall 220 may be provided integrally with or separately from the capsule body 200. Thus, the capsule body 200 and the injection wall 220 may consist of separate parts or may be integrally formed as a single piece. The injection wall 220 may form a tapered end of the capsule body 200. The injection wall 220 may be configured to be pierced by a blade of a coffee making machine, whereby the blade provides an opening for fluid injection. Preferably, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or milk, or a liquid / gas mixture. Similar to the capsule body 200, the injection wall 220 may also be provided with the protective layer 400 described above. It is also contemplated that the injection wall 220 may be provided with a (small) opening through which the blade of the coffee making machine can penetrate and pierce the protective layer 400. Similar to the capsule body 200, the injection wall 220 may have a layered and / or laminated structure and may be made from (laminated) molded pulp fibers and / or food-safe materials (FCS, FCM).

[0106] The capsule body 200 and the inlet wall 220 may be arranged such that the chamber 250 is closed (sealed) preferably from at least three sides, as shown in Figure 1. The capsule body 200 and the inlet wall 220 may be arranged such that the infused fluid is uniformly distributed within the chamber 250 along the side wall 210.

[0107] delivery wall The capsule 100 comprises a delivery wall 300 connected to the capsule body 200 and closing the chamber 250. This is exemplarily shown in FIG.

[0108] The delivery wall 300 is provided in layers, as exemplarily shown in Figures 1 and 2. There is no limit to the number of (different) layers that the delivery wall 300 may have. As presented, the delivery wall may be a carrier layer adapted to be opened under the influence of an increase in pressure of a fluid injected into the capsule; a filter layer for filtering particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the delivery wall, the filter layer being provided on an opposite side of the carrier layer to the chamber; and a bonding layer provided between the carrier layer and the filter layer, at least partially joining the filter layer and the carrier layer to one another on opposite sides, preferably by adhesive bonding or heat sealing.

[0109] The delivery wall 300 is flat. The term "flat" is intended to mean that the delivery wall 300 extends substantially in one plane. In other words, the delivery wall 300 extends in one plane, but can be deformed in a convex or concave plane depending on the relative pressure between the inside and outside of the capsule. In particular, it may occur that the raw materials contained therein (e.g., roast and ground coffee) produce gases such as carbon dioxide over the storage period of the pod. In this case, overpressure may be created within the capsule, causing the initially flat delivery wall to bulge outward. For example, if a capsule is formed, filled, and sealed in a factory near sea level and then transported at a higher altitude where the atmospheric pressure is lower, the atmospheric pressure may change around the capsule. In such a case, the initially flat delivery wall will be deflected inward in a concave shape.

[0110] As mentioned above, one of the layers of the delivery wall 300 is the carrier layer 320, which is exemplarily shown in Figure 2. The carrier layer 320 is adapted to be opened under the influence of an increase in pressure of a fluid injected into the capsule 100, for example upon interaction with an opening element (not shown) of a beverage production machine. The carrier layer 320 may be a film, membrane or ply having a defined thickness and preferably having a substantially flat surface.

[0111] The carrier layer 320 is made of a biodegradable material. Preferably, the carrier layer 320 may also be made of a compostable material and / or a food-safe material (FCS, FCM). Additionally or alternatively, the (material of) the carrier layer 320 may have a defined fiber structure, such as a closed fiber structure. For example, the material of the carrier layer 320 may have a fiber structure in which at least 50% by weight corresponds to softwood pulp. Further examples of the material of the carrier layer 320 may be one or any combination of the following group: cellulose fibers, paper, biopolyester, PHA, PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PVOH, and / or polymers in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol.

[0112] The carrier layer 320 may be configured to be resilient to pressure buildup in the chamber 250, preferably 1 to 20 bar, more preferably 10 to 20 bar, and most preferably 12 to 18 bar. In particular, the material of the carrier layer 320 may be configured to be resilient to pressure buildup in the chamber 250 within such pressure range. Here, the thickness and density of the material may affect the rigidity of the carrier layer 320, i.e., its resistance to bending. The carrier layer 320 may have a material thickness of 10 to 150 micrometers, preferably 30 to 70 micrometers. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier layer 320 may have a basis weight of 20 to 150 g / m², preferably 40 to 100 g / m². Preferably, the carrier layer 320 may be attached to the capsule body 200 (rim portion 211), preferably by heat sealing or adhesive bonding.

[0113] Another layer of the delivery wall 300 is a filter layer 310, as exemplarily shown in Figure 2. The filter layer 310 may be configured to filter particles from the prepared beverage before it is dispensed through / from the delivery wall 300. The filter layer 310 may be a film, membrane or ply of defined thickness (and / or having a (mostly) flat surface).

[0114] The filter layer 310 is made of a biodegradable material. Preferably, the filter layer 310 can also be made of a compostable material and / or a food-safe material (FCS, FCM). For example, the filter layer 310 can be a nonwoven material such as cellulose fiber or PLA. Further examples can be cellulose fiber, wood pulp, sugarcane pulp, rayon fiber, PBS, PBS-A, PHB, and / or PLA.

[0115] The mechanical and filtering properties of the filter layer 310 can be affected by the thickness of the material, its density, and its permeability to particles. The filter layer 310 can have a material thickness of 10 to 300 micrometers, preferably 30 to 250 micrometers. Additionally or alternatively, the filter layer 310 can have a basis weight of 10 to 200 gm (g / m²), preferably 20 to 150 gsm (g / m²).

[0116] In the proposed delivery wall embodiment, the carrier layer 320 and the filter layer 310 are provided on the capsule body 200 such that the filter layer 310 is provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer 320 from the chamber 250 .

[0117] Preferably, the carrier layer 320 may face the chamber 250. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier layer 320 may be provided in a delivery wall closer to the chamber 250 than the filter layer 310. This is exemplarily shown in FIG.

[0118] Preferably, each of filter layer 310 and carrier layer 320 may be made from a different biodegradable, preferably compostable, material. The different materials of the two layers may be distinguished in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation. For example, it may be preferable for the elasticity of filter layer 310 to be higher than that of carrier layer 320, because, as is typical in layered structures, layers further away from the base layer experience greater strain during bending compared to layers closer to the base layer.

[0119] The delivery wall 300 may be disposed on an opposite side of the chamber 250 from the injection wall 220. The delivery wall 300 and the injection wall 220 may be disposed relative to one another such that, during operation, injected fluid traverses the capsule 100 through the injection wall 220, the chamber 250 (and, if available, the substance 500 contained therein), and the delivery wall 300 in that order. The chamber 250 may be completely enclosed by the delivery wall 300 (on one end), the injection wall 220 (on its opposite end), and the side wall 210 (along / surrounding the side between the two opposite ends). The delivery wall 300 preferably extends completely over the opening 230 and overlaps the rim portion 211.

[0120] As can be seen in FIG. 2, a tie layer 360 is proposed between the carrier layer 320 and the filter layer 310, joining them by adhesive bonding or heat sealing.

[0121] The carrier layer 320 and the filter layer 310 are at least partially bonded to each other on their opposite sides, ie, on their sides facing each other thanks to the bonding layer 360 .

[0122] The bonding layer 360 is made up of one or more bonding layers and provides an adhesive bond between the carrier layer 320 and the filter layer 310 to ensure efficient adhesion of the two aforementioned layers.

[0123] The tie layer is a biodegradable, preferably compostable material such as vegetable starch or acrylic adhesive, and contributes to the biodegradability of the complete capsule.

[0124] The bond strength of the bonding layer 360 can vary depending on the materials of the filter layer 310 and the carrier layer 320 .

[0125] Characteristics of the sending wall Breaking strength, work of rupture and elongation are the main quality attributes of any material. The strength and elongation of a material, as well as the energy required to break, are important for the processability and use of the material.

[0126] Figures 3-5 show some of the specific mechanical properties of the delivery wall of the present invention. The graphs were established based on numerous tests and are therefore statistical results and are presented as such.

[0127] The table below (Table 1) provides one embodiment of a proposed delivery wall.

[0128] The first row of the table ("Filter Layer") corresponds to the outer layer of the delivery wall 300 that is in contact with the external atmosphere.

[0129] [Table 1]

[0130] The delivery wall proposed above has particular features that ensure that it has the necessary properties, firstly for efficient and reliable opening during its extraction in the beverage preparation machine, and secondly for effective sealing and resistance when the delivery wall is sealed onto the capsule body.

[0131] The proposed delivery wall structures in Table 1 involve work of fractures comprised between 50 and 90 N·mm in wet conditions.

[0132] The work of fracture of a given material sample may be defined as a measurement that is directly proportional to the energy required to fracture the material sample.

[0133] This can be calculated as the area under the stress-strain curve from a tensile test.

[0134] The proposed breaking work range of 50-90 N·mm allows the opening of the delivery wall within an energy range compatible with the beverage preparation machine, with the necessary pressure increase in the capsule to provide extraction, while avoiding reaching maximum pressure and leading to overpressure in the beverage preparation machine.

[0135] The proposed ranges are measured in wet conditions, which are the conditions of use for the delivery walls in beverage machines.

[0136] The wetting condition is currently defined according to tensile testing in accordance with ASTM D882 after wetting the specimen within the gauge length with 1.25 mL of room temperature water. For the wetting procedure, the specimen is placed on an absorbent material and 1.25 mL of water is dispensed within the specimen's gauge length. The specimen is then placed directly into a universal testing machine for testing. The total time between wetting the specimen and the start of the test is less than 20 seconds.

[0137] The proposed ranges take into account the MD and CD directions, since measurements of such material properties are generally made on a particular material at different orientations of the material, which means the material sample placed on the machine in both the machine direction (MD) and the cross (or transverse) direction (CD).

[0138] This is illustrated in FIG. 3, which is a graph showing the work of rupture in the MD and CD for the delivery wall of FIG. 2 in wet and dry conditions.

[0139] More specifically, as can be seen in Figure 3 , in the wet state, the work of fracture of the tested specimens (100–300 delivery walls constructed according to Table 1 were tested) varies between approximately 50 and 70 N·mm and between 70 and 90 N·mm in the MD direction.

[0140] In addition to the above ranges, the work of rupture is at least 20% lower in the wet state than in the dry state, where the dry state is defined according to the standard test in accordance with ASTM D882, meaning that the energy required to rupture the delivery wall is lower in the wet state (during extraction) than in the dry state (when the capsule is not used). This makes it possible to have a delivery wall that requires more energy to be broken in the dry state than in the wet state, and therefore the capsule delivery wall is more resistant in the dry state.

[0141] As can be seen in the graph in Figure 3, in the MD direction, the work of rupture of the delivery membranes in Table 1 has an average value of 87 N·mm in the dry state and an average value of 62 in the wet state. Thus, in the MD direction, the average value in the wet state is 29% lower than the average value in the dry state.

[0142] Similarly, in the CD direction, the average value in the wet state is 41% lower than the average value in the dry state.

[0143] Generally speaking, when a capsule is inserted into a beverage machine, the delivery wall is dry and needs to sustain the injection of pressurized water into the capsule interior. Therefore, the work of rupture should be sufficient to prevent the capsule from opening as soon as water is injected. As water is injected into the capsule interior, the delivery wall gradually becomes wet, and the change in membrane properties (lower work of rupture in a wet state than in a dry state) combined with interaction with the opening element of the beverage preparation machine allows the delivery membrane to open.

[0144] Tensile strength is a measure of a material's ability to resist deformation and maintain its shape. Tensile strength can be determined from tensile test data by plotting a stress-strain curve.

[0145] The delivery walls proposed in Table 1 include a tensile strength in the wet state that is at least 80% lower than in the dry state, regardless of material orientation, which allows the delivery membrane to open more easily when in the wet state than in the dry state.

[0146] This is shown in Figure 4, where the tensile strength of the delivery wall in both the MD and CD directions is significantly lower in the wet state than in the dry state. Thus, the delivery wall is less resistant to elongation in the wet state than in the dry state, whatever the direction (MD or CD), which allows it to open more easily as the membrane begins to wet during the extraction process.

[0147] For the proposed delivery wall in Table 1, the average maximum difference in work of fracture in the wetted state between MD and CD directions is less than 40%, which means that the energy before fracture in the two directions is quite close. This is shown in Figure 3 for the wetted state.

[0148] This makes it possible to consider that there is no strong preferred direction in which the delivery wall will break during the capsule extraction process. Furthermore, the elongation at break is higher in the dry state than in the wet state, especially in the CD direction.

[0149] In addition to tensile strength, strain at tensile strength may be a relevant parameter to be considered.

[0150] Strain in tensile strength measures the maximum stress a specimen (of a material) can withstand while being stretched before breaking. Some materials can break sharply (brittle fracture), while some other materials deform or elongate before breaking. It can also be considered a measure of the force of elongation of a material before it breaks. Controlling this parameter in MD and CD can be relevant to selecting materials that have limited elongation before breaking, especially in the wet state.

[0151] The flat shape and uniform break resistance of the delivery wall allows it to open in a controlled manner during the brewing process in the machine. The delivery wall does not overstretch before breaking. In the wet state (compared to the dry state), the limited elongation and reduced tensile strength allows the delivery wall (and therefore the capsule) to open properly for good brewing of the coffee.

[0152] Bond strength is an important parameter for preventing delamination between the two layers. Delamination can occur for various reasons, such as overpressure within the capsule. Overpressure can build up due to degassing, i.e., gas production by the beverage ingredients during storage until extraction from the pod. Overpressure can also be the result of altitude changes. In particular, capsules can be filled and sealed in a factory located at a certain altitude and then transported for sale and / or use at a higher altitude.

[0153] A good bond therefore ensures that the capsule delivery wall does not crack during storage if overpressure occurs or if the capsule is subjected to any type of mechanical stress during storage.

[0154] Figure 5 shows the dry bond strength (N / 15mm) in MD and CD for the delivery walls of Table 1. Measurements were performed according to ASTM F904.

[0155] As can be seen, in both directions, the bond strength of the delivery wall is at least 0.9 N / 15 mm in both the MD and CD. In fact, in the MD, the bond strength is 1.05 N / 15 mm, and in the CD, the bond strength is 0.99 N / 15 mm. The proposed lower limit allows the delivery wall to provide sufficient bond strength to maintain structural integrity.

[0156] In addition, the maximum difference in bond strength between the MD and CD directions in a dry state is 15% between the MD and CD directions, which makes it possible to provide uniform sealing of the delivery wall 300 in all directions on the capsule body 200 and to avoid having a preferential weak direction.

[0157] FIG. 6 proposes an improvement to the delivery wall presented and described in relation to FIG.

[0158] The delivery wall 300 of FIG. 6 proposes integrating additional layers in addition to the carrier layer 320, the filter layer 310, and the bonding layer 360 to provide additional functionality to the delivery wall 300.

[0159] The additional layers result in a general increase in tensile properties, particularly with respect to tensile strength and work of rupture. However, these modifications in tensile properties are applied uniformly across the delivery wall and generally do not affect the values ​​and results presented.

[0160] As a proposal, the delivery wall 300 of FIG. 6 integrates a barrier layer, a protective layer, and at least one adhesive layer for connection to the capsule 100 .

[0161] As can be seen in the figures, particularly in Figure 6, the delivery wall 300 further integrates a barrier layer 340 that provides a barrier against moisture and / or oxygen. The barrier is selected to be a two-way barrier against moisture and oxygen in order to protect the substance 500, preferably roast and ground coffee, from moisture and oxygen present outside the capsule. The two-way barrier layer 340 acts against liquid and / or gaseous substances / contents entering and leaving the chamber 250. Such a configuration ensures that the substance 500 maintains its initial quality and does not change over time.

[0162] The barrier layer 340 is disposed between the carrier layer 320 and the at least one adhesive layer 330. It is disposed closest to the capsule opening 230 so as to allow the nutritional properties and aroma of the substance 500 to be maintained.

[0163] The barrier layer 340 may be provided in the form of a single layer or in the form of multiple layers, and the total thickness may vary between 2 and 5 microns. The amount of barrier material in the one or more barrier layers 340 may be between 0.1 and 10 gsm (g / m 2 ) is included between

[0164] It is made from biodegradable (preferably compostable) materials, such as biopolymers, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or copolymers, or butanediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or any polymer or copolymer in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the above materials.

[0165] In this case, the barrier layer is made of BVOH (butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer) or copolymer. The barrier layer has a total thickness of 3 to 4 micrometers.

[0166] If desired, additional layers may be disposed between carrier layer 320 and adhesive layer 330 and still form part of delivery wall 300 .

[0167] As shown in FIG. 6, the delivery wall 300 further includes at least one protective layer 350 extending between the barrier layer 340 and the at least one adhesive layer 330 .

[0168] This protective layer 350 is intended to protect the barrier layer 340 from moisture.

[0169] The protective layer 350 may be made from a material that is preferably water insoluble, and is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material such as an acrylic polymer.

[0170] 6, the delivery wall 300 further comprises at least one adhesive layer 330. As mentioned above, and as an integral element, the delivery wall 300 may be connected to the rim portion 211 to close the chamber 250, thereby forming a closed capsule 100. This may be achieved, for example, by heat sealing or adhesive connection. Thus, the adhesive layer 330 may be provided between the delivery wall 300 and the capsule body 200, thereby attaching (bonding) the capsule body 200 and the delivery wall 300 to each other.

[0171] More precisely, as shown in FIG. 6, an adhesive layer 330 is provided on a carrier layer 320 .

[0172] The adhesive layer 330 may include one or more adhesive layers 330a, 330b, etc., as shown in FIG. 6, and may form part of the delivery wall 300, and more specifically the carrier layer 320, particularly when integrated into a laminate structure.

[0173] The total thickness of an adhesive layer or all adhesive layers (if there is more than one) is 1 to 30 micrometers, preferably 10 to 15 micrometers. In a proposed embodiment, the thickness is about 1 to 13 micrometers.

[0174] The adhesive layer may be made of a biodegradable (and preferably compostable) material such as plant-based starch or an acrylic adhesive. In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 330 is a polymer made of an acrylic adhesive.

[0175] From the above description, the adhesive layer 330 is therefore made from a different material than the filter layer 310 and / or the carrier layer 320 .

[0176] This material of the adhesive layer is hydrophobic.

[0177] Additionally, the materials selected are water insoluble to avoid interaction with / deterioration by the moisture content of the beverage substance 500, which may be, for example, roast and ground coffee.

[0178] This material is applied in one or more layers as described above. The total amount of adhesive material applied around the carrier layer 320 is comprised between 5 and 20 gsm. This ensures that sufficient adhesive material is applied on the carrier layer 320 for an efficient and tight sealing of the delivery wall 300 onto the rim portion 211 of the capsule body 200.

[0179] The one or more adhesive layers are applied as a coating, for example, a water-based coating.

[0180] 6, adhesive layer 330 does not cover the entire surface of carrier layer 320. The adhesive layer has a limited radial extension (starting from the periphery of the delivery wall) and extends only over and entirely around the periphery of the carrier layer. The extension of adhesive layer 330 over the periphery of carrier layer 320 spans at least radial distance D.

[0181] The radial distance D must be at least equal to, and preferably slightly greater than, the radial extension of the rim portion 211 to which the delivery wall 300 is sealed. In the proposed embodiment of Figure 4, the radial distance D of the extension of the adhesive layer is comprised between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 and 10 mm, so that an adequate seal around the carrier layer on the rim portion 211 is provided.

[0182] Furthermore, it can be suggested that the maximum coverage of the surface of the carrier layer by the adhesive layer is 90%.

[0183] In the proposed embodiment, the adhesive layer 330 clearly covers less than 90% of the surface of the carrier layer, and less than 50% in the embodiment of FIG.

[0184] As shown in Figure 6, the adhesive layer(s) 330 are applied only on the periphery of the carrier layer 320, all around its periphery, over a radial distance D of approximately 7 mm. This radial distance D may vary between 3 and 10 mm, but is preferably limited in extension to a value slightly greater than the radial extension of the rim portion. As illustrated, the centre of the carrier layer is free of adhesive to allow easier opening of the delivery wall 300 on the opening element of the beverage production machine. The surface free of adhesive is circular C.

[0185] The surface of the carrier layer 320 covered by the adhesive layer 330 may be limited to the periphery of the delivery wall, extending a radial distance D from the periphery of the carrier layer 320 of the delivery wall 300. However, other useful configurations may be implemented.

[0186] In the proposed embodiment, the adhesive layer is a heat seal layer 330 that can be sealed onto the rim portion 211 by localized application of heat. The sealing of the delivery wall 300 onto the rim portion of the capsule 100 is performed over the entire periphery of the delivery wall.

[0187] Delivery wall 300 may comprise additional layers in addition to filter layer 310, carrier layer 320, and adhesive layer 330. These additional layers may be interposed between the filter layer, carrier, and adhesive layers as needed and depending on their function.

[0188] Capsule manufacturing process A further aspect of the present invention relates to a process for manufacturing the capsule 100 described above.

[0189] Here, the capsule body 200 is formed from a biodegradable pulp material such as cellulose pulp, bamboo pulp, bagasse pulp, or wood pulp. The injection wall 220 is formed (preferably together with the capsule body 200) so as to form at least a part of a chamber 250 for receiving a substance 500 for preparing a beverage. The delivery wall 300 is provided and attached to the capsule body 200, for example by heat sealing. Here, the delivery wall 300 is provided on the capsule body 200 such that the filter layer 310 is provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer 320 from the chamber 250.

[0190] Preferably, the capsule body 200 may be formed by wet pulp molding, where a slurry of biodegradable pulp material, such as any form of wood pulp, bagasse pulp, non-wood pulp, and / or cellulosic pulp, may be forced into a mold to form the capsule body 200. The capsule body 200 thus formed is then dried. At least a portion of the inner surface (before filling) or at least a portion of the outer surface of the capsule body 200 may be provided with a protective film 400, for example, by thermoforming.

[0191] Alternatively, the capsule body 200 may be formed by dry pulp molding. Thus, a blank of preferably dried cellulose fibers may be provided, from which the capsule body 200 is formed using a tool, preferably under the application of heat and / or water. The protective film 400 may be applied to the interior of the capsule body 200 as a liner (e.g., by applying heat and / or vacuum) and may extend onto and cover the inwardly facing surface of the sidewall 210 between both ends of the capsule body 200, and may also extend onto and cover the rim portion 211 on its surface facing away from the chamber 250.

[0192] In both of the two above-mentioned processes, the injection wall 220 may be formed together with the capsule body 200, for example, in the same step. Preferably, the injection wall 220 may be formed by (wet / dry) pulp molding, or by attaching a membrane or film as the injection wall 220 to the capsule body 200 after the formation of the capsule body 200, for example, using a biodegradable adhesive. For example, by (wet / dry) pulp molding, the injection wall 220 may be formed together with the capsule body 200 in the same process step, while a second separate process step may be required to attach the injection wall 220 with an adhesive. The capsule body 200 may be filled with a substance 500 for preparing a beverage. The delivery wall 300 may be provided and attached to the capsule body 200 by an adhesive layer 330 such that the carrier layer 320 may face (be oriented toward) the chamber 250. A protective film 400 may be added to the (circumferential) surface of the capsule 100, preferably made from a biodegradable and / or compostable material. At least a portion of the inward-facing or outward-facing surface of the inlet wall 220 (which may further define the chamber 250) may be provided with the protective film 400.

[0193] As disclosed, the disclosed delivery wall 300 is thus composed of different layers of materials, each having specific properties and functions and contributing to the final properties of the delivery wall 300 as a whole.

[0194] The delivery wall 300 may then comprise a layered structure or may be presented as a laminated structure. Typical layered manufacturing processes are known in the art.

[0195] The specific placement of one or more adhesive layers 330 on the protective layer 350 or on the barrier layer 340 may be performed using coating or printing techniques. If a coating is applied, the coating may be, for example, water-based.

[0196] Systems incorporating capsules and use of capsules Further aspects of the present invention relate to a system comprising the capsule 100 described above and a beverage production machine, and to the use of the capsule 100 described above for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine having a capsule holder.

[0197] For example, the capsule 100 described above may be provided and inserted into a brewing chamber of a beverage production machine. The brewing chamber comprises a first part for accommodating the capsule and a second part comprising a capsule holder with an opening structure. During the brewing process, the capsule 100 is placed in the beverage production machine so that the filter layer 310 is closer to (and ultimately contacts) the opening structure of the capsule holder in the second part of the brewing chamber of the machine (which includes an opening element in the form of a concave-convex surface) than the carrier layer 320. The brewing chamber is then closed.

[0198] The injection wall 220 of the capsule 100 can be pierced by an injection nozzle of a beverage production machine to inject a fluid into the chamber 250 to interact with the substance 500. A fluid, such as a liquid or a liquid / gas mixture, may be injected into the chamber 250, thereby building up pressure in the capsule 100 and forcing the delivery wall 300 against, for example, an opening element of the beverage production machine. At least a portion of the delivery wall 300 can be pierced by the opening element when the pressure of the injected fluid reaches a predetermined level in the chamber 250. Preferably, the carrier layer 320 can be perforated. Alternatively or additionally, the delivery wall 300 can be provided (e.g., with respect to its material composition / selection) such that the carrier layer 320 can be perforated while the filter layer 310 is not. In this preferred embodiment, the carrier layer 320 is perforated, while the filter layer 310 remains integral. The prepared beverage may be expelled from the capsule 100, and the beverage may pass through the openings in the carrier layer 320 and the (cavities in the porous material of) the filter layer 310, which may be closer to the chamber 250 than the filter layer 310, and the filter layer 310 is provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer 320 to the chamber 250.

[0199] Thus, the delivery wall 300 of a capsule used in a closed brewing chamber is opened with reduced tearing due to the uneven surface of the opening structure compared to capsules with an aluminium delivery wall.

[0200] As mentioned above, the present invention also relates to the use of the capsules and systems described above.

[0201] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as encompassed by the appended claims.

[0202] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claim. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those recited in the claim. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are defined as one or more. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" in a claim should not be construed as meaning that the introduction of another claim element with the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits a particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even if the same claim also contains the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an." The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements they describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate a chronological or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0203] Unless expressly stated as incompatible or unless the physical or other properties of the embodiments, examples, or claims preclude such combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments, examples, and appended claims may be combined together in any suitable configuration, particularly those that result in beneficial effects. This is not limited to any particular benefit alone, but may instead result from an "after-the-fact" benefit. This means that the combination of features is not limited to the described form, particularly the dependency format (e.g., numbering) of the example(s), embodiment(s), or claim(s). Furthermore, this also applies to phrases such as "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," and the like, which are merely literal styles and should not be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment relative to all other instances of the same or similar language. This means that a reference to "an," "one," or "some" embodiment(s) may refer to one or more and / or all of the disclosed embodiments, or combination(s) thereof. Likewise, references to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

[0204] The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from experience with various implementations of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A capsule (100) for preparing a beverage in a beverage machine, comprising: a capsule body (200) having a three-dimensional shape, comprising a sidewall (210) defining a chamber (250) for containing a beverage / food ingredient (500), and a rim portion (211) defining an opening (230) in said sidewall (210); an injection wall (220) for injecting a fluid into the chamber (250) to prepare the beverage upon interaction of the fluid with the beverage ingredient (500); a delivery wall (300) connected to the capsule body (200) to close the chamber (250), the delivery wall (300) being made of a biodegradable material and comprising, in layers: a carrier layer (320) adapted to be opened under the influence of an increase in pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule; a filter layer (310) for filtering particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the delivery wall, the filter layer (310) being provided on the opposite side of the carrier layer (320) from the chamber (250); a bonding layer (360) between the carrier layer (320) and the filter layer (310), at least partially joining the filter layer (310) and the carrier layer (320) to each other on opposite sides, preferably by adhesive bonding or heat sealing, The delivery wall (300) has a work of fracture, the work of fracture being: 50 to 90 N mm in a wet state, where the wet state is defined according to a tensile test in accordance with ASTM D882 after wetting the sample within the gauge length with 1.25 mL of water at room temperature; and A capsule (100) having a moisture content at least 20% lower in the wet state than in the dry state, the dry state being defined according to a standard test in accordance with ASTM D882.

2. 10. The capsule (100) of claim 1, wherein the delivery wall (300) has a tensile strength in a wet state that is at least 80% lower than in a dry state.

3. 3. The capsule (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the delivery wall (300) has an average maximum difference in work of rupture between the machine direction (MD) and the cross direction (CD) in a wet state of less than 40%.

4. 3. The capsule (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the delivery wall (300) has a maximum difference in bond strength in the dry state, measured according to ASTM F904, of 15% between the machine direction (MD) and the cross direction (CD).

5. 4. The capsule (100) of claim 3, wherein the delivery wall (300) has a bond strength in the dry state, measured according to ASTM F904, of at least 0.9 N / 15 mm in both the machine direction (MD) and the cross direction (CD).

6. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the carrier layer (320) is made from a compostable material and / or a material with a defined, preferably closed, fibrous structure, for example at least 50% by weight of softwood pulp, cellulose fibres, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polyhydroxybutyrates (PHBs) and copolymers, polybutylene succinates (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyesters, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), or polymers or copolymers in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, or a fibrous structure corresponding to a combination and / or laminate of the above-mentioned materials.

7. The carrier layer (320) is made of a paper-based material and has a weight of 20 to 150 g / m ２ between 30 and 100 g / m ２ The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having a basis weight between .

8. the filter layer (310) is made from a compostable and / or nonwoven material different from the carrier layer (320), such as wood or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or the filter layer (310) has a weight of 10 to 150 g / m ２ , preferably 20 to 100 g / m ２ 8. The capsule (100) of claim 1, having a basis weight of

9. The bonding layer (360) is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material such as vegetable starch or acrylic adhesive, and has a density of 1-5 g / m ２ 9. The capsule (100) of claim 1, having a basis weight of

10. 10. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the delivery wall (300) comprises, on the side of the carrier layer (320) facing towards the chamber, an adhesive layer (330) applied in one or more layers for joining, preferably sealing, preferably heat-sealing, the delivery wall (300) to the rim portion (211) of the capsule body (200), the total basis weight of the adhesive layer being between 0.5 and 20 g / m2.

11. 11. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the outermost of the at least one adhesive layer (330) facing the capsule chamber (250) extends entirely around and along the periphery of the delivery wall (300), preferably the carrier layer (320), for a radial distance D of 3 mm to 12 mm, preferably 5 to 10 mm.

12. 12. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the delivery wall (300), preferably the carrier layer (320), further comprises a barrier layer (340) applied in one or more layers to provide preferably two-way barrier properties against moisture and / or liquid and / or gaseous substances, preferably oxygen, entering and leaving the chamber (250), the barrier layer (340) extending between the carrier layer (320) and the adhesive layer (330), the barrier layer (340) being made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), a polymer or copolymer in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the aforementioned materials.

13. 13. The capsule (100) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery wall (300), preferably the carrier layer (320), further comprises a protective layer (350) extending between the carrier layer (320), preferably the barrier layer (340), and the adhesive layer (330) for protecting the barrier layer (340).

14. 14. The capsule (100) of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein one or more of the different layers of the delivery wall (300), i.e., the carrier layer (320), the filter layer (310), the bonding layer (360), the adhesive layer (330), the barrier layer (340), and the protective layer (350), are laminated with other layers of the delivery wall (300).

15. 15. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the capsule body (200) and / or the injection wall (220) comprise a layered and / or laminated structure, preferably the capsule body (200) and / or the injection wall (220) are preferably made from laminated molded pulp fibres, and / or the capsule body (200) and the injection wall (220) consist of separate parts or are integrally formed, e.g. as a one-piece part.

16. The capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the capsule body (200) is made from a cellulosic pulp molding material, preferably a wood-based pulp molding material.

17. 17. A system for preparing a beverage, comprising: a capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, containing a beverage ingredient (500), preferably roast and ground coffee; and a beverage preparation machine, the beverage preparation machine having a fluid supply device capable of supplying a quantity of fluid, such as water, to the capsule at a pressure of between 2 and 20 bar at a first end of the capsule, and an extraction chamber comprising a first part for accommodating the capsule and a second part for closing the extraction chamber, The second part of the brewing chamber comprises a capsule holder having an opening structure for engaging with the capsule (100) at the second end of the side wall when the brewing chamber holding the capsule is closed, the opening structure having a textured surface facing the delivery wall (300), preferably the filter layer (310), of the capsule in use, such that the delivery wall (300), preferably the filter layer (310), of the capsule is opened with reduced tearing due to the textured surface of the opening structure when used in the closed brewing chamber compared to a capsule with an aluminum delivery wall.

18. 18. Use of a capsule (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16 in a system for preparing a beverage according to claim 17 for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine having a capsule holder.

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