Device for delivering volatile materials

Abstract

This specification discloses a device for delivering a volatile material, comprising a delivery engine including a reservoir for containing a volatile material and b a microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, wherein the microporous membrane has a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for delivering volatile materials, and more specifically, to an apparatus for delivering volatile materials to an environment in a closed space such as a room or a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] It is commonly known that devices are used to evaporate volatile materials into a space, particularly a home space, to provide various benefits such as air purification or air fragrance. Non-electric systems, such as those not powered by electrical energy, are a common method used to deliver volatile materials into the atmosphere.

[0003] These systems can be classified into those requiring human operation, such as aerosols, and those that do not require human operation, such as wick-based systems and gels. The first type delivers volatile materials on demand, while the second type delivers volatile materials in a more continuous manner.

[0004] Modifications of the second type of system include membrane-based systems, such as those disclosed in PCT Patent Publication 2010 / 120960(A1). While such systems have achieved great commercial success, there remains room for improvement. For example, a considerable amount of low-volatility material may remain trapped on or within the membrane, and therefore, it is desirable to improve the release efficiency of volatile materials (e.g., fragrances). Furthermore, it can be difficult for consumers to accurately determine when existing membrane-based products have reached the end of their lifespan, which can lead to consumer dissatisfaction. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] PCT Patent Publication No. 2010 / 120960(A1) [Overview of the project]

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] There is a need for a membrane-based device for delivering volatile materials that addresses at least some of the drawbacks associated with the prior art. There is also a need for a membrane-based device having an improved fragrance release profile.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention addresses one or more of the drawbacks associated with the prior art. By providing a device comprising a membrane having a volume average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm, it has surprisingly been found that the following advantages are obtained.

[0008] First, the membrane allows for a higher efficiency of use of the fragrance provided within the device, with less volatile material remaining trapped on the membrane at the end of the product's life. Also, by this improvement, advantageously, the membrane can have a substantially different appearance when wet with the volatile material compared to its appearance when dry (either before activation or at the end of the product's life). Thereby, advantageously, the consumer can easily determine whether the product is properly activated and whether the product needs to be replaced.

[0009] The membrane allows for an improvement in fragrance release, particularly between the middle and end portions of the product's life. This advantage is surprisingly obtained while maintaining the same total product life.

[0010] When using a membrane having a lower bulk density than prior art membranes, it is also possible to seal the membrane at a lower temperature, improving ease of manufacture and cost.

[0011] Thus, the present invention provides the following. 1. A device for delivering a volatile material, comprising a delivery engine, a. A reservoir for containing a volatile material, b. A microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, and an apparatus for delivering a volatile material, comprising a delivery engine having a microporous membrane with a volume average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm. 2. The delivery engine c. A frangible substrate fixed to the reservoir, d. A rupture element positioned adjacent to the frangible substrate, and further comprising the apparatus according to paragraph 1, wherein the microporous membrane encloses the frangible substrate and the rupture element. 3. The microporous membrane has a surface area of 2 cm ~ 100 cm 2 ~ 100 cm, 2 optionally 2 cm ~ 35 cm 2 ~ 35 cm, 2 and the apparatus according to paragraph 1 or 2. 4. The microporous membrane has a porosity of 45 to 70%, optionally 45 to 60%, and the apparatus according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3. 5. The microporous membrane has a total pore volume of 0.6 to 2 cm 3 / g, optionally 0.65 to 1.6 cm 3 / g, more optionally 0.7 to 1.5 cm 3 / g, and the apparatus according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 4. 6. The microporous membrane has a bulk density of 0.3 to 0.8 g / cm 3 ~ 0.8 g / cm, optionally 0.35 to 0.75 g / cm 3 ~ 0.75 g / cm, more optionally 0.4 to 0.7 g / cm 3 ~ 0.7 g / cm, and the apparatus according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 5. 7. The microporous membrane has a thickness of 0.2 to 0.4 mm, optionally 0.22 to 0.37 mm, more optionally 0.25 to 0.35 mm, and the apparatus according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6. 8. The microporous membrane has a porosity of 45 to 60%, 0.65~1.5cm 3 Total pore volume per g, and 0.35~0.75 g / cm³ 3 The apparatus described in any one of sections 1 to 7, having a bulk density. 9. The apparatus described in any one of sections 1 to 8, wherein the microporous membrane is not laminated. 10. The microporous membrane contains polyethylene, The apparatus according to any one of sections 1 to 9, wherein the polyethylene is optionally ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). 11. Microporous membranes, Contains polyethylene, It has a thickness of 0.2 to 0.4 mm. A device that is not stacked, as described in any one of sections 1 to 10. 12. The reservoir contains a volatile material, and the volatile material is liquid at 25°C. Optionally, the volatile material has a vapor pressure of at least 8 Pa at 25°C. Furthermore, optionally, the apparatus according to any one of sections 1 to 11, wherein the volatile material has a vapor pressure of at least 30 Pa at 25°C. 13. The delivery engine, c. A burstable substrate fixed to the reservoir, d. Further comprising a bursting element positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate, The microporous membrane encloses the ruptureable substrate and the rupture element, The reservoir contains volatile materials, The device is configured such that the activation of the bursting element allows contact between the volatile material and the microporous membrane. The apparatus according to any one of sections 1 to 12, wherein the apparatus is configured to release at least 80% by weight of the volatile material within a period of 8 weeks at a temperature of 25°C after activation of the bursting element. 14. The apparatus according to any one of sections 1 to 13, wherein the microporous membrane has a first visible state when dry and a second visible state when wetted with a volatile material, and the CIE2000 delta-E value between the first visible state and the second visible state is 5 or greater. 15. The apparatus according to any one of sections 1 to 14, wherein the microporous membrane has a first visible state when dry and a second visible state when wet with a volatile material, and the difference between the luminous transmittance value of the first visible state and the luminous transmittance value of the second visible state is 25% or more, as measured according to ISO 13468-2:2021. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] A perspective view of one embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] This shows an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the delivery engine according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a front perspective view of a volatile composition dispenser according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] The present invention relates to an apparatus for delivering volatile materials, comprising a delivery engine, a. A reservoir containing volatile materials, b. A microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, Equipped with a delivery engine, The microporous membrane provides a device for delivering volatile materials having a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0014] As used herein, the term “comprising” may be interpreted as requiring the features mentioned but not limiting the presence of other features. Alternatively, the term “comprising” may also relate to situations where only the enumerated components / features are intended to exist (for example, the term “comprising” may be replaced by the phrases “consists of” or “consists essentially of”). It is expressly intended that both the broader and narrower interpretations may apply to all aspects and embodiments of the invention. In other words, the term “comprising” and its synonyms may be replaced by the phrases “consisting of” or “consists essentially of” or their synonyms, and vice versa.

[0015] The phrase "consists essentially of" and its alternative names may be interpreted herein as referring to materials that may contain trace amounts of impurities. For example, a material may be 90% or more pure, e.g., ultrapure 95%, e.g., ultrapure 97%, e.g., ultrapure 99%, e.g., ultrapure 99.9%, e.g., ultrapure 99.99%, e.g., ultrapure 99.999%, e.g., 100% pure. Where used herein, the term "substantially identical" is intended to refer to dimensions that are essentially identical except for variations resulting from manufacturing tolerances. For example, this term may mean that dimensions vary by less than 5%, e.g., less than 2%, e.g., less than 1%, e.g., less than 0.5%, e.g., less than 0.05%, e.g., dimensions are essentially uniform.

[0016] Preferably, the present invention relates to a non-energized device for delivering volatile materials to the atmosphere in a continuous, non-energized manner. "Non-energized" means that the device is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. Specifically, the device does not need to be powered by a heat source, gas source, or current source, and the volatile material is not delivered by aerosol means. Furthermore, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include multiple references unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, "volatile material" may include more than one volatile material.

[0017] The apparatus of the present invention delivers a volatile material in a substantially continuous manner when the apparatus is in a stationary position (i.e., the apparatus is not moving). The emission concentration of the volatile material can maintain a constant intensity until substantially all of the volatile material is used up. The continuous emission of the volatile material can be for a maximum of 20, 30, 60, or 90 days, a shorter or longer period, or any period between 30 and 90 days, for example, about 8 weeks (56 days), but can be any suitable length, without being limited to these.

[0018] The apparatus of the present invention is suitable for the purpose of providing fragrances, air purifiers, deodorizers, odor neutralizers, insecticides, insect repellents, medicinal substances, disinfectants, sterilizers, mood enhancers, and aromatherapy aids, or for any other purpose that uses volatile materials that act to adjust, modify, or otherwise alter the atmosphere or environment. For the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail, but without intending to limit the scope of the present invention, the present invention describes an air purification system for delivering a liquid containing a fragrance raw material.

[0019] The present invention is based on the remarkable discovery that an apparatus comprising a microporous membrane having a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm offers several advantages, as discussed herein. The apparatus may be of the type discussed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 8,740,110 or U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20220047754, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the remarkable advantages related to the present invention may be obtained using other apparatuses, and that the present invention is not limited to the type of apparatus disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,740,110 or U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0047754.

[0020] As discussed herein, the present invention provides an apparatus for delivering volatile materials. The apparatus should be understood to mean a part of an apparatus capable of delivering volatile materials into the surrounding atmosphere, comprising a delivery engine.

[0021] The delivery engine is a. A reservoir containing volatile materials, b. A delivery engine comprising a microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, wherein the microporous membrane has a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0022] The reservoir contains the volatile material. A microporous membrane seals the reservoir so that the volatile material cannot escape from the delivery engine without passing through the microporous membrane. Because the microporous membrane prevents the passage of liquid, the volatile material can only escape from the delivery engine by evaporating through or from the microporous membrane.

[0023] Microporous membrane Microporous membranes are vapor-permeable and can draw up liquids, but they prevent the free flow of liquids from the membrane. Microporous membranes have a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm. The use of microporous membranes having such pore sizes offers numerous advantages, as discussed herein and demonstrated in the following examples.

[0024] While not bound by theory, it is believed that microporous membranes with a volume-average pore size of less than 0.065 μm provide inferior fragrance release and do not offer the other advantages obtained by the present invention. Furthermore, it is believed that microporous membranes with a higher volume-average pore size may cause leakage and / or droplet formation.

[0025] Microporous membranes are vapor-permeable and can draw up liquids, but they prevent the free flow of liquids from the membrane. Microporous membranes may have limited selectivity, preventing the passage of fewer fragrance materials compared to conventional membranes. Conventional selective membranes, such as polyethylene, may prevent high molecular weight volatile materials and materials with low solubility in polyethylene from passing through and diffusing. This may limit fragrance formulations, for example, in the field of air purifiers, where it is generally desirable to use formulations with a wide variety of volatile materials having different volatility levels (e.g., top notes, middle notes, and bottom notes). For example, some membranes may prevent the diffusion of alcohols such as linalool and dihydromyrcenolate, which are widely used in fragrance applications.

[0026] The microporous membrane has a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm. The microporous membrane may have a volume-average pore size of 0.07 to 0.12 μm, for example, 0.07 to 0.11 μm, or 0.08 to 0.1 μm.

[0027] Typically, a microporous membrane has a pore size distribution such that at least 50%, for example, at least 60%, for example, at least 70%, for example, at least 80%, or for example, at least 90% of the pores of the microporous membrane have a pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0028] The microporous membrane may contain polyethylene such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) (for example, it may be formed from it), but polyethylene chains of other lengths may also be used. As used herein, UHMWPE refers to polyethylene having a molecular weight of about 3.5 million to 7.5 million amu.

[0029] The microporous membrane may have a thickness of approximately 0.01 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm, or approximately 0.22 mm to 0.37 mm, for example, approximately 0.25 mm to 0.35 mm in the z direction.

[0030] It is expressly intended herein that any endpoint of any range defined with respect to the variables disclosed herein may be combined with any other endpoint from any other range defined with respect to the same variable. Therefore, for the thickness ranges considered above, the following ranges are also expressly intended, and it should be understood that the same principle may apply to the ranges disclosed herein with respect to any other variable: 0.01~0.2mm, 0.01~0.22mm, 0.01~0.25mm, 0.01~0.35mm, 0.01~0.37mm, 0.01~0.4mm, 0.01~1mm; 0.2~0.22mm, 0.2~0.25mm, 0.2~0.35mm, 0.2~0.37mm, 0.2~0.4mm, 0.2~1mm; 0.22~0.25mm, 0.22~0.35mm, 0.22~0.37mm, 0.22~0.4mm, 0.22~1mm; 0.25~0.35mm, 0.25~0.37mm, 0.25~0.4mm, 0.25~1mm; 0.35~0.37mm, 0.35~0.4mm, 0.35~1mm; 0.37-0.4 mm, 0.37-1 mm; and 0.4~1mm.

[0031] The microporous membrane may be formed from a single piece or a single sheet of material. In other words, the microporous membrane does not have to be laminated. Therefore, the microporous membrane may be formed from a single sheet of polyethylene having the thickness described above.

[0032] Those skilled in the art will understand that the surface area of ​​the microporous membrane can vary depending on the size of the delivery engine preferred by the user. In some embodiments, the (evaporation) surface area of ​​the microporous membrane is approximately 2 cm².2 ~Approx. 100cm 2 , or about 10cm 2 ~about 50cm 2 , or about 10cm 2 ~approximately 45cm 2 , or about 10cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , or about 15cm 2 ~about 40cm 2 , or about 15cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , or about 20cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , or about 30cm 2 ~Approx. 35cm 2 , or approximately 35 cm 2 That's fine.

[0033] The microporous membrane may have any suitable porosity. For example, the microporous membrane may have a porosity of 45% to 70% by volume, for example, 45% to 65%. In certain embodiments, the porosity may be 50% to 70%, for example, 55% to 65%.

[0034] The microporous membrane is 0.6-2 cm 3 It may have any appropriate total pore volume, such as / g. Typically, the total pore volume is 0.65–1.6 cm³. 3 / g, for example, 0.7~1.5cm 3 It may be / g. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the total pore volume is 0.8 to 1.4 cm³. 3 / g is also acceptable.

[0035] Microporous membranes have a concentration of 0.3-0.8 g / cm³. 3 It may have any suitable bulk density, such as 0.35–0.75 g / cm³. Typically, the bulk density is 0.35–0.75 g / cm³. 3 For example, 0.4~0.7 g / cm³ 3 It is possible. In certain embodiments, the bulk density is 0.4 to 0.6 g / cm³. 3 That's fine.

[0036] Suitable microporous membranes for the present invention include microporous polyethylene membranes available from Microporous, LLC, which have the properties described herein.

[0037] The microporous membrane may contain any suitable fillers and plasticizers known in the art. Examples of fillers include finely ground silica, clay, zeolite, carbonate, activated carbon, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the microporous membrane may be filled with silica at a total weight of about 30% to about 80%.

[0038] In one aspect of the present invention, the microporous membrane may contain a dye that is sensitive to the amount of volatile material in contact with it to indicate the end of its service life. Alternatively, the microporous membrane may change to transparent when in contact with a fragrance or volatile material to indicate that diffusion is occurring. Other means known in the art for indicating the end of its service life can be conceived within the scope of the present invention.

[0039] The films described herein may, advantageously, provide a distinct visual change when wetted with a volatile material and when dried (whether before use or at the end of the service life). Such a visual change may be more detectable if the film does not contain a white pigment (e.g., TiO2). Therefore, the microporous film may contain less than 5% by weight of a white pigment, e.g., less than 1% by weight of a white pigment, less than 0.1% by weight of a white pigment, or less than 0.01% by weight of a white pigment. The microporous film may not contain a white pigment.

[0040] The visual change when a film is wet compared to dry may be more pronounced when the microporous film contains a coloring dye / pigment or a black dye / pigment. Therefore, the microporous film may contain a coloring or black dye / pigment such as activated carbon. Such a coloring or black pigment / dye (e.g., activated carbon) may be present in any suitable amount, such as 0.1 to 5% by weight, for example, 0.3 to 1% by weight.

[0041] Volatile materials As used herein, “volatile material” refers to a material that can volatilize at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without requiring an energy source. A volatile material may be a composition consisting entirely of a single volatile material. A volatile material may also be a composition consisting entirely of a mixture of volatile materials (i.e., the mixture has two or more volatile components). Furthermore, not all of the constituent substances of the composition need to be volatile. Any suitable volatile material in any amount or form, including liquids or emulsions, may be used.

[0042] Materials suitable for use in this specification may have non-volatile components such as carrier materials (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). It should also be understood that when a composition is described in this specification as being "delivered," "evaporated," or "released," this refers to the volatilization of its volatile components, and does not necessarily require the emission of its non-volatile components.

[0043] Volatile materials can take the form of fragrance oils. Most conventional fragrance materials are volatile essential oils. Volatile materials can be volatile organic compounds that are commonly available from fragrance manufacturers. Furthermore, volatile materials can be synthetically or naturally formed materials. Examples include, but are not limited to, oils of bergamot, bitter orange, lemon, mandarin, fennel, cedar leaf, clove leaf, cedarwood, geranium, lavender, orange, origanum, petitgrain, white cedar, patchouli, neroli, and rose absolute. In the case of air purifiers or fragrances, different volatile materials may be similar, related, complementary, and / or contrasting.

[0044] Volatile materials may also originate from crystalline solid forms having the ability to sublimate into the gas phase at ambient temperature or to be used to impart fragrance to liquids. Any suitable crystalline solid may be used in any suitable amount or form. For example, suitable crystalline solids include, but are not limited to, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, coumarin, tonalide, chalon, heliotropen, muscuxylol, cedrol, musk ketone benzohenone, raspberry ketone, methyl naphthyl ketone β, phenylethyl salicylate, berthol, maltol, maple lactone, proeugenol acetate, and evemil.

[0045] Nevertheless, it may be desirable for the volatile material to be in liquid form at 25°C. As described herein, the microporous membrane used in the present invention may have an advantageously increased appearance change when wetted with a volatile material. This advantageously provides the user with a quick and clear indication that the volatile material is in contact with the microporous membrane (and, if activation is required, that the device is properly activated). The appearance change also provides a clear indication that the device has reached the end of its service life, as the appearance of the membrane returns to a dry appearance.

[0046] Therefore, the microporous membrane may have a first visible state when dry and a second visible state when wet with a volatile material, and the first and second visible states have different appearances. For example, the CIE2000 delta-E value of the sRGB difference between the first visible state and the second visible state may be 5 or greater, for example, 8 or greater, 10 or greater, or 12 or greater. When used herein, CIE2000 delta-E is calculated by the CIE2000 formula published by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) *This refers to ( ). Alternatively or additionally, the difference between the luminous transmittance value in the first visible state and the luminous transmittance value in the second visible state, as measured by ISO 13468-2:2021, may be 25% or more, for example, 30% or more, 35% or more, 40% or more, or 45% or more.

[0047] The volatile material may have a combined vapor pressure of at least 8 Pa at 25°C, for example, at least 30 Pa at 25°C.

[0048] When different volatile materials are used to avoid the problem of emission habituation, it may be undesirable for the volatile materials to be very similar. Otherwise, people experiencing the emission may not realize that different materials are being emitted. Different emission can be delivered using multiple delivery systems, each providing a different volatile material (e.g., musk, floral, fruity emission). Different emission can be related to one another by a common theme or in some other way. An example of different but complementary emission could be cinnamon emission and apple emission.

[0049] In addition to the volatile material of the present invention, the delivery engine may also contain any known malodorous composition for neutralizing odors. Suitable malodorous compositions include cyclodextrins, reactive aldehydes, and ionones.

[0050] While not bound by theory, the continuous delivery of volatile materials may be a function of various factors, including the pore size of the film, the surface area of ​​the film, the physical properties of the volatile material, such as molecular weight and saturated vapor pressure ("vapor pressure, VP"), and the viscosity and / or surface tension of the composition containing the volatile material.

[0051] The composition may be formulated to include a mixture of volatile materials comprising: about 10% to about 100% of the total weight of each volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.01 torr at 25°C; alternatively, about 40% to about 100% of the total weight of each volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25°C; alternatively, about 50% to about 100% of the total weight of each volatile material having a VP of less than 0.1 torr at 25°C; or alternatively, about 90% to about 100% of the total weight of each volatile material having a VP of less than about 0.3 torr at 25°C. In one embodiment, the volatile material mixture may contain 0% to about 15% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.004 torr to about 0.035 torr at 25°C; 0% to about 25% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.1 torr to about 0.325 torr at 25°C; and about 65% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.035 torr to about 0.1 torr at 25°C. One source of information for obtaining the saturated vapor pressure of volatile materials is the EPI Suite®, version 4.0, available from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

[0052] Tables 1 and 2 below show two exemplary compositions containing volatile material mixtures with various volatile properties. These compositions are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0053] [Table 1]

[0054] [Table 2]

[0055] The viscosity of the volatile material can control how and when it is delivered to the microporous membrane. For example, a lower viscosity composition may flow faster than a higher viscosity volatile material. Therefore, the membrane may be initially wetted with a lower viscosity material. To help prevent the liquid from seeping through the microporous membrane, the volatile material may have a viscosity of less than about 23 cP and a surface tension of less than about 33 mN / m.

[0056] In one embodiment, a composition containing a volatile material may have a viscosity of about 1.0 cP to less than about 25 cP, or about 1.0 cP to less than about 23 cP, or about 1.0 cP to less than about 15 cP.

[0057] A composition containing a volatile material may be designed to have a surface tension of approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 33 mN / m, or approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 30 mN / m, or approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 27 mN / m.

[0058] The delivery engine is c. A burstable substrate fixed to the reservoir, d. The system may further include a bursting element positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate, The microporous membrane encloses the ruptureable substrate and the rupture element.

[0059] The burstable substrate functions to prevent contact between the volatile material and the microporous membrane before the device is to be used. The burstable substrate can burst by activating the bursting element, and such rupture of the burstable substrate allows the volatile material to flow through the burstable substrate and come into contact with the microporous membrane. The configuration of the burstable substrate and bursting element is described in more detail below.

[0060] As a purely illustrative example, the apparatus of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0061] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 corresponds to that described in U.S. Patent No. 8,740,110 and includes a delivery engine 100 and a housing 200, and has a cross-section 8. The present invention provides such an apparatus comprising a microporous membrane having a volume-average pore diameter of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0062] Figure 2 shows the delivery engine 100 of Figure 1, which includes width, length, and depth along the x, y, and z axes, respectively. The width, length, and depth may be such that the delivery engine 100 is considered compact and / or portable. "Compact" or "portable" means that the delivery engine 100 can be conveniently and comfortably carried in a pocket, handbag, etc. The delivery engine 100 can be configured as a disposable, single-use article, or as an article that is refilled with a volatile material.

[0063] The delivery engine 100 may include a lip 102 that defines the outer periphery of the delivery engine 100 and surrounds a reservoir 110 containing volatile material and a collection dish 112. The delivery engine 100 may also include a burstable substrate 120 fixed to the reservoir 110, a bursting element 130 positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate 120, and a microporous membrane 140 fixed to the lip 102 and enclosing the burstable substrate 120, the reservoir 110, and the collection dish 112.

[0064] The body 104 of the delivery engine 100 can be thermoformed, injection molded, or blow molded from any known material. In some embodiments, the body 104 includes all structural aspects of the delivery engine 100, excluding the burstable substrate 120, bursting element 130, and microporous membrane 140. In other embodiments, the body 104 includes the bursting element 130. The body 104 may be made from a multilayer material that may include a barrier layer for preventing evaporation of volatile components and at least one outer layer that allows the burstable substrate 120 to be heat-sealed to the body 104. A suitable sealant layer may be a layer of polyethylene or polypropylene, or any suitable polyolefin sealant, that allows for leak-proof sealing of the reservoir 110. A suitable material for forming the body 104 of the delivery engine 100 is plastic, for example, Pentaplast Pentaform® 2101 available from Klockner. In some embodiments, the material is a colored or uncolored see-through plastic. See-through materials allow for observation of the liquid and the end of its service life.

[0065] The delivery engine 100 may include a reservoir 110 for holding volatile material. The reservoir 110 includes width, length, and depth along the x, y, and z axes, respectively. The reservoir 110 may be elongated in that its width-to-length ratio is about 2:1 to about 4:1, or about 1.5:1 to about 2.5:1. The reservoir 110 may have a width of about 45 mm to about 55 mm, or about 51 mm, a length of about 15 mm to about 30 mm, or about 23 mm, and a depth of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or about 11 mm. The dimensions of the reservoir 110 may be such that it can hold about 2 mL to about 50 mL of liquid containing the volatile material. Alternatively, reservoir 110 may hold a liquid containing a volatile material in quantities of approximately 2 ml to 30 ml, or approximately 2 ml to 10 ml, or approximately 2 ml to 8 ml, or approximately 4 ml to 6 ml, or approximately 2 ml, or approximately 6 ml.

[0066] The reservoir 110 may include a bottom 114 and a single opening 116. The reservoir 110 may also have a raised portion 122 surrounding the single opening 116 or the upper edge of the reservoir 110. This raised portion 122 can provide a generally flat surface to which a burstable substrate 120 can be fixed. The raised portion 122 allows the fixed area of ​​the burstable substrate 120 to be located away from the inner wall of the reservoir 110 in which the volatile material is held.

[0067] The delivery engine 100 of the present invention is intended to comprise two or more reservoirs (not shown) that can be filled with the same or different volatile materials. The reservoirs may have any configuration that contacts the microporous membrane 140 upon rupture. For example, the reservoirs may be connected opposite each other when used in a reversible device. In such a device, the microporous membrane 140 is fluidly connected between the reservoirs.

[0068] The delivery engine 100 may include a burstable substrate 120. The burstable substrate 120 may be configured in any way that prevents volatile material in the reservoir 110 from coming into contact with the microporous membrane 140 before activation or bursting of the delivery engine 100. In one embodiment, the burstable substrate 120 may seal the reservoir before activation by extending across a single opening 116 fixed to a protrusion 122 of the reservoir 110. The burstable substrate 120 may be fixed by a layer of adhesive, heat and / or pressure sealing, ultrasonic bonding, crimping, or a combination thereof.

[0069] The rupturable substrate 120 can be made from any material that ruptures upon application of force, with or without the presence of elements that aid in such rupture. Since the rupturable substrate 120 is intended to contain volatile materials during storage, it can be made from a layer of any barrier material that prevents the evaporation of the volatile materials before its intended use, and a layer of heat-sealable material. Such material may be impermeable to vapors and liquids. Suitable barrier materials for the rupturable substrate 120 include flexible films such as polymer films, flexible foils, or composite materials such as foil / polymer film laminates. Suitable flexible foils include metallic foils such as foil composed of nitrocellulose protective lacquer, 20-micron aluminum foil, polyurethane primer, and a 15 g / m2 polyethylene coating agent (Lidfoil 118-0092) available from Alcan Packaging. Suitable polymer films include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, acrylonitrile copolymer barrier films (such as those sold by INOES under the trademark name Barex®), ethylene vinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. It is also intended that the coated barrier film may be used as a ruptureable substrate 120. Such coated barrier films may include and may be metallized PET, metallized polypropylene, silica, or alumina-coated films. Any of these barrier materials, whether coated or uncoated, may be used alone and / or in combination with other barrier materials.

[0070] The burstable substrate 120 can be ruptured to release volatile material by activating the bursting element 130. The bursting element 130 can be injection molded, compression molded, or pressure molded using polyolefins such as polyethylene or polypropylene, polyester, or other plastics known to be suitable for molding. The bursting element 130 can also be manufactured by thermoforming, with a separate cutting step to remove undesirable portions.

[0071] The bursting element 130 may be positioned in a space 132 formed within the delivery engine body 104 adjacent to the burstable substrate 120 and beneath the microporous membrane 140. The space 132 may be configured such that the bursting element 132 is nested within the space 132 and sealed by the microporous membrane 140, thus eliminating the need for other means to hold the bursting element 132 within the delivery engine 100. In one embodiment, the bursting element 130 is positioned between the burstable substrate 120 and the microporous membrane 140, and in contact with them. The bursting element 130, being directly adjacent to the microporous membrane 140, can facilitate wetting of the microporous membrane 140. More specifically, liquid can be drawn between the bursting element 130 and the microporous membrane 140, allowing for the maintenance of a larger wetted surface area of ​​the microporous membrane 140.

[0072] The bursting element 130 may be configured in any manner that allows a user to manually activate the bursting element 130 and relatively easily rupture the rupturable substrate 120. In one embodiment, the user may activate the bursting element 130 by manually compressing it. In another embodiment, the bursting element 130 may rupture the rupturable substrate 120 through contact with an element provided in the delivery engine housing that engages with and compresses the bursting element 130. A suitable compressive force for rupturing the rupturable substrate 120 with the bursting element 130 may be less than about 25 N, or less than about 20 N, or less than about 15 N, or less than about 10 N, or less than about 5 N, or about 1 N to about 15 N, or about 1 N to about 10 N, or about 1 N to about 5 N.

[0073] The compressive force can be measured using the QTest Elite10 electromechanical test system, available from MTS, along with an improved polyamide UL283 finger probe. The UL283 finger probe is described in Standard for Air Fresheners and Deodorizers, UL Standard 283, Figure 10.1 (UL March 31, 2004). As described in UL283, Figure 10.1, the finger tip radius is 3.5 mm, the finger tip height is 5 mm, and the finger tip depth is 5.8 mm. However, unlike the finger probe described in the preceding text, the improved UL283 finger probe does not include an articulated joint. Instead, it is in a fixed position perpendicular to the bursting element 130 when the test is performed. The test is performed at ambient temperature (23 ± 2 °C). The surrounding area of ​​the delivery engine 100 is placed on the support fixture without the bursting element 130 being in direct contact with or directly fixed to the support fixture. The crosshead speed of the electromechanical testing system is set to 30 mm / min. The improved UL283 finger probe moves toward the bursting element 130 and makes contact with the region where the displacement is desired to rupture the burstable substrate 120. If a flange 134, such as those described herein, is used, the desired displacement region is the midpoint of the flange 134. The midpoint is the point midway between the proximal end and the distal end 136. For example, if the flange 134 is 2 cm from the proximal end to the distal end 136, the midpoint is located at 1 cm. The machine is operated until the bursting element 130 is displaced by 6 mm. Zero displacement is defined as the point where a force of 0.1 N (i.e., preload) is applied. The load at the first peak when the burstable substrate 120 is fractured is recorded as the force of rupture. Those skilled in the art will understand that the compressive force will vary depending on the physical properties and arrangement of the microporous membrane 140, the bursting element 130, and the burstable substrate 120 within the delivery engine 100.

[0074] Numerous embodiments of the bursting element 130 described herein exist, all of which are intended to be non-limiting examples. Figure 2 shows one non-limiting embodiment of the bursting element 130. In this embodiment, the bursting element 130 includes a flange 134 hinged to the bursting element 130. The flange 134 may be injection molded and may include a distal end 136. The distal end 136 may include one or more through elements 138 located in the z-direction or toward the burstable substrate 120. In one embodiment, the distal end 136 may include two spaced through elements 138 in the z-direction. In an alternative embodiment, the distal end 136 may form a single point (not shown) along the xy-plane. The user may manually compress or press the flange 134 downward in the z-direction so that the burstable substrate 120 is ruptured and volatile material is released into the microporous membrane 140.

[0075] The bursting element 130 is intended to include two or more flanges 134 if additional bursting points are desired. For example, the bursting element 130 may include a first compressible flange and a second compressible flange hinged to the bursting element (not shown).

[0076] The delivery engine 100 shown in Figure 2 includes a microporous membrane 140 as described above.

[0077] When used with the apparatus shown in Figure 1, the microporous membrane 140 may be fixed to the lip 102 of the delivery engine 100 in the same manner as the ruptureable substrate 120 is fixed to the protrusion 122 of the reservoir 110. The microporous membrane 140 encloses the reservoir 110, the ruptureable substrate 120, the rupture element 130, and the collection dish 112. In this way, the ruptureable substrate 120 can be ruptured by compressing the microporous membrane 140 and the rupture element 130. Once ruptured, the volatile material flows out of the reservoir 110, comes into contact with the microporous membrane 140, and is delivered to the atmosphere. Since the microporous membrane 140 is shielded from the volatile material until the ruptureable substrate 120 is ruptured, once the microporous membrane 140 is fully wetted, the fragrance intensity can slowly increase from zero to its equilibrium release rate.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of the apparatus 11 corresponding to the one described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0047754, while Figure 4 shows a rear perspective view of this embodiment. The present invention provides such an apparatus comprising a microporous membrane having a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0079] The illustrated apparatus 11 comprises a housing 20 having a first wall 21 facing a second wall 23. The components of the housing 20, including the first and second walls, may be made from plastic, bamboo, wood, glass, seashells, pulp, metal, or metallometal. It can also be anticipated that in certain embodiments, the selected material for the walls may be recyclable, or may be made from a further recyclable material. Any of the components of the housing, including the first and second walls and the buttons and button channels, may be formed by thermal means, injection molding, or blow molding. These first and second walls are joined to each other along their respective perimeters 22, 24. These walls may be joined to each other by various mechanisms, including snap-fit ​​connectors, adhesives, or one or more latches that mechanically attach one wall to the other. The first wall 21 and the second wall 23 may be individually convex, or convex to such an extent that two hemispherical walls are formed separately and, when joined to each other, form a spherical apparatus. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 21 and the second wall 23 are each curved in an elliptical shell shape. Thus, in this case, they form an elliptical disk housing and device. The first and second walls of this embodiment may be said to be shell-shaped. The first wall 21 includes a window 80 and a primary opening 27. The device 11 comprises a base 25 consisting of one or both of the first wall 22 (25a) and the second wall 24 (25b). In Figure 3, the primary opening 27 is located near the base 25a of the first wall. The primary opening may vary in size, but is approximately 30 mm. 2 , 40mm 2 , 50mm 2 , 60mm 2, 70mm 2 , 80mm 2 , 90mm 2 , or even 100mm 2 ~Approx. 120mm 2 , 130mm 2 , 140mm 2 , 150mm 2 , 160mm 2 , 170mm 2 , or 180mm 2 It may have an area of ​​approximately 110 mm. In this embodiment, the primary opening 27 is approximately 110 mm 2 That is the case.

[0080] The window 80 is useful in providing the user with the ability to visually measure the volume of the volatile composition within the cartridge receptacle. The window 80 easily accommodates the rear or bottom of the cartridge and is transparent or translucent in most cases to facilitate volume display. The window 80 can take on various shapes. In this embodiment, it is oval, but it may be rectangular, circular, triangular, or other asymmetrical shape that allows the user to see the receptacle well. The window 80 may also be of variable size. In the oval or elliptical configuration of the device, the length may be in the range of about 3 cm, 3.5 cm, 4 cm, 4.5 cm, or 5 cm to about 7 cm, 7.5 cm, 8 cm, 8.5 cm, or 9 cm, while the width may be in the range of about 3 cm, 3.5 cm, or 4 cm to about 5 cm, 5.5 cm, 6 cm, 6.5 cm, 7 cm, 7.5 cm, or 8 cm. In one embodiment, the length of the housing is 6 cm, while the width is 4.5 cm. The volatile composition may vary in color from device to device. The color of the composition may harmonize with the color of the housing or markings on the buttons to promote the fragrance theme. For example, the composition may be blue, while the markings on the buttons, such as a handprint, may also be blue to indicate a "sea" or "calm" theme.

[0081] Although not shown in the drawings, the first wall may also have a second set of openings around the window. These second set of openings may be of equal size to one another, or there may be a number ranging from two to several. It should be noted that these openings, like the window, are distinct from the primary openings. While not limited to theory, the second set of openings are likely to facilitate the passage of air within the apparatus, thereby increasing the evaporation of the volatile composition and the final release of the composition into the environment.

[0082] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

[0083] The present invention is illustrated by the following embodiments, which should not be construed as limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims. [Examples]

[0084] General materials and methods The following examples were carried out using fragrance A, a mixture containing 51% ester, 26% carbonyl, and 15% alcohol, with the remainder consisting of various trace components. The components of fragrance A have the following carbon chain lengths: 16% of carbon chains have a length of 6-8 carbon atoms. 50% of carbon chains have a length of 9-11 carbon atoms, and It has a distribution of 21% of carbon chain lengths between 12 and 14. The remainder consists of small amounts of other chain lengths.

[0085] fragrance weight loss The following equipment was used in calculating the fragrance weight loss values, which are detailed in Table 4. 1. Balance (scale: Ohaus AA210S / N11131122540) or equivalent. 2. A housing as shown in Figures 3 and 4. 3. A volatile material cartridge containing 7 ml of fragrance composition. 4. 3M Scotch Weld applicator TC and glue, #3797-TC or equivalent. 5. Evaporation racks or equivalent open tray (barker) racks are covered by tops and shelves separated by at least 15 cm. 6. A room for housing the evaporation rack with the following measurements: airflow, temperature / relative humidity, or equivalent. a) Lab dimensions: 32 feet 4 inches long x 72 inches wide x 108 inches high, or 1,730 feet 3 b) Airflow (intake and exhaust) • Normal mode: Average intake supply: 103.75 feet 3 / min+6% • Average discharge: 149.25 feet 3 / min+6% The difference results in negative air pressure: -45.5 • Negative pressure indicates the supply of air to the laboratory and its discharge through the ventilation system from adjacent pathways or rooms. c) Temperature and relative humidity (%) ·Average temperature: 23℃+0.1℃ • Average relative humidity %: 45% + 0.5%

[0086] The procedure for measuring weight loss is as follows: 1. Fill the cartridge with the volatile composition in such a manner that it provides a sealed cartridge in which the membrane has not yet been wetted. For example, the volatile composition cartridge may be perforated by cutting a hole that allows for the insertion of an 18-gauge needle. 2. Fill the cartridge with 7 ml of fragrance. This corresponds to 6650 mg of fragrance A, which was used as the standard fragrance for all experiments described herein. The volume may need to be adjusted based on the density of the composition of interest. 3. Seal the insertion hole with hot melt adhesive. 4. Measure and record the weight of the device. 5. Insert the cartridge into the housing to hold and orient it, ensuring that the cartridge is properly positioned within the housing and that there is adequate airflow through it. 6. Activate the cartridge by any suitable means to allow contact between the fragrance and the film, thereby wetting the film. In the embodiments disclosed herein, this activation was achieved by pressing an activation button that breaks a breakable seal between the fragrance and the film. 7. Record the cartridge weight at the same time every day for a specific period, for example, at least 60 days. 8. Determine the weight loss of the volatile composition during the relevant period.

[0087] bulk density The bulk density of the membrane is determined by dividing the sample weight by the sample volume. The sample weight can be measured using a standard weighing balance (e.g., Ohaus AA210 S / N11131122540 or equivalent). The sample volume can be determined by measuring the sample dimensions using a standard caliper.

[0088] thickness The film thickness can be measured using a standard micrometer screw gauge.

[0089] Porosity The porosity of a membrane, expressed as a volume percentage, is determined according to the following equation: Porosity = 100[1-d1 / d2] In the formula, d1 is the density of the sample, which is determined from the sample weight and sample volume confirmed by measuring the dimensions of the sample, and d2 is the density of the solid portion of the sample, which is determined from the sample weight and the volume of the solid portion of the sample. The volume of the solid portion of the microporous membrane is determined using a Quantachrome stereopycnometer (Quantachrome Corp.) according to the operating manual provided with this instrument.

[0090] Volume average pore diameter The volume-average diameter of the membrane pores is determined by mercury porosimetry using an Autoscan mercury porosimemeter (Quantachrome Corp.) according to the operating manual provided with the instrument. The volume-average pore radius for a single scan is automatically determined by the porosimemeter. During porosimemeter operation, scans are performed in the high-pressure range (absolute pressure 138 kilopascals to absolute pressure 227 megapascals). If less than 2% of the total penetration volume occurs at the lower end of the high-pressure range (absolute pressure 138 to 250 kilopascals), the volume-average pore diameter is considered to be twice the volume-average pore dimension determined by the porosimemeter. Alternatively, an additional scan is performed in the low-pressure range (absolute pressure 7 to 165 kilopascals), and the volume-average pore diameter is produced by the following equation: d=2[v1r1 / w1+v2r2 / w2] / [v1 / w1+v2 / w2] In the formula, d is the volume-average pore diameter, v1 is the total volume of mercury injected in the high-pressure range, v2 is the total volume of mercury injected in the low-pressure range, r1 is the volume-average pore radius determined from the high-pressure scan, r2 is the volume-average pore radius determined from the low-pressure scan, w1 is the weight of the sample used for the high-pressure scan, and w2 is the weight of the sample used for the low-pressure scan.

[0091] Total pore volume The total pore volume of the membrane is determined by mercury porosimetry using an Autoscan mercury porosimemeter (Quantachrome Corp.) according to the operating manual provided with the instrument. The total pore volume for a single scan is automatically determined by the porosimemeter.

[0092] If the examples provided below do not provide results for the film of the present invention, this means that the film of the present invention in question was not tested in that experiment.

[0093] Example 1: Fragrance Release Films 1-3 of the present invention were obtained from Microporous, LLC. Comparative film 1 was obtained from PPG Industries, Inc. The properties of the different films are shown in Table 3 below.

[0094] [Table 3]

[0095] Two identical air purification delivery devices, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, were prepared using different membranes: one using membrane 1 of the present invention, and the other using comparative membrane 1. Each device contained 7 ml (6650 mg) of fragrance A housed in a reservoir, which allowed the fragrance to come into contact with the device's membrane after activation. Each device was 27 cm². 2 It had each of the following membranes.

[0096] The fragrance release performance of the air purification delivery device was evaluated using the "fragrance weight loss" procedure outlined above. The results are shown in Table 4 below.

[0097] [Table 4]

[0098] Each device was filled with 7 ml (6650 mg) of fragrance. Consequently, after 8 weeks, the device using film 1 of the present invention was able to release 85.3% of the total fragrance, while the device using comparative film 1 was only able to release 78.4%.

[0099] By comparing the results of the present invention's film 1 and comparative film 1, it is clear that the present invention's film 1 can release more fragrance at every stage of the product's lifespan (8 weeks). This improvement was achieved while maintaining the same total fragrance filling volume (7 ml) and using the same fragrance mixture, demonstrating that the present invention's film 1 improves the efficiency of fragrance release. To avoid misunderstanding, devices prepared using the present invention's film 1 maintain the same overall product lifespan (approximately 8 weeks) as those prepared using comparative film 1.

[0100] The last column of Table 4 shows the increase in fragrance release at each stage. The relative increase is lower during the first week, because fragrance release in this initial stage is mainly driven by highly volatile top notes (e.g., vapor pressure of at least 0.1 Torr at 25°C). However, after the first week, when middle and bottom notes contribute more to fragrance evaporation, it is clear that film 1 of the present invention performs significantly better than comparative film 1. This improvement in fragrance release reduces waste by resulting in less fragrance remaining in the device (whether in the reservoir or on / inside the film itself) at the end of the product's lifespan (8 weeks).

[0101] Devices prepared using comparative film 1 have a lifespan of approximately 8 weeks, but a detectable amount of fragrance remains in the film at the end of its service life. This means that consumers may still be able to smell the fragrance and may not realize that the product has reached the end of its service life. This can lead to consumer dissatisfaction and confusion. In contrast, film 1 of the present invention can increase the evaporation of fragrance, so less fragrance remains on the film at the end of its service life. This results in a less noticeable lingering scent and provides consumers with a clearer olfactory signal that the product has reached the end of its service life.

[0102] Example 2: Visual changes As detailed in Methods 1 and 3, the following apparatus / materials were used during the determination of the visual changes in the color and / or transparency of the film. 1. Balance (scale: Ohaus AA210S / N11131122540) or equivalent. 2. 0.1 ml of fragrance composition (Fragrance A). 3. A membrane measuring 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm. 4. To obtain the film after fragrance wetting, add 0.1 ml of fragrance onto the film.

[0103] As detailed in Method 2, the following apparatus / materials were used to determine the visual change in the color and / or transparency of the film after fragrance wetting. 1. Balance (scale: Ohaus AA210S / N11131122540) or equivalent. 2. Housing of the present invention including the first and second walls 3. A volatile composition cartridge containing 7 ml of fragrance composition (fragrance A, optionally containing a blue dye). 4. 3M Scotch Weld applicator TC and glue, #3797-TC or equivalent. 5. The procedure for obtaining a working device that allows the film to be moistened with fragrance is as follows: a. Fill the cartridge with the volatile composition in such a manner that it provides a sealed cartridge that has not yet been wetted. For example, the volatile composition cartridge may be perforated by cutting a hole that allows for the insertion of an 18-gauge needle. b. Fill the cartridge with 7 ml of fragrance. This is equivalent to 6650 mg of standard fragrance. The volume may need to be adjusted based on the density of the desired composition. c. Seal the insertion hole with hot melt adhesive. d. Insert the cartridge into the housing, ensuring that the cartridge is properly positioned within the housing and that there is adequate airflow through it. e. Activate the cartridge and wet its membrane. Here, such activation is achieved by pressing the activate button. However, there may be equivalent means to activate and wet the membrane.

[0104] Changes in color / transparency were evaluated using three methods. Method 1 (Measurement of luminous transmittance): Based on ISO 13468-2:2021 Plastics - Determination of the total luminous transmittance of transparent materials - Part 2: Double-beam instrument, the luminous transmittance of the film is measured both in its original state and after fragrance application. Method 2 (Measuring the color difference of the film using Delta E): Take photographs of the film before and after activating the device. Determine the sRGB values ​​of both photographs using standard software (MS Paint software for Microsoft Windows users, Digital Color Meter for Mac users, https: / / imagecolorpicker.com / or equivalent), and then calculate the Delta E between the photographs based on the CIE2000 definition from the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) using standard software (e.g., http: / / colormine.org / delta-e-calculator / cie2000 or https: / / rgbcmyk.com.ar / en / xla-2 / or equivalent). Method 3 (Panelist Test): Ten panelists were asked to evaluate the changes in transparency and color difference of the film, both in its original state and after fragrance addition, on a scale from 1 to 5. 1 represents no change, 2 represents a slight change, 3 represents a moderate change, 4 represents a large change, and 5 represents an extreme change.

[0105] The results of each method are shown below.

[0106] Method 1 The luminous transmittance of the dry and wet films was evaluated according to ISO 13468-2:2021. The results are shown in Table 5 below.

[0107] [Table 5]

[0108] The results confirm that films 1 and 3 of the present invention exhibit a much larger change in luminous transmittance between dry and wet states than comparative film 1.

[0109] Method 2 Delta E was calculated from the RGB values ​​as described above for Method 2.

[0110] The film 4 of the present invention closely corresponds to film 1 of the present invention, except that it also contains 0.66% by weight of activated carbon. This resulted in a change from gray when dry to black when wet.

[0111] As shown in Table 6, the fragrance formulations used were either colorless or blue.

[0112] [Table 6]

[0113] Delta E values ​​less than 5 are generally considered to represent the same or similar colors (even if the difference is perceptible). Delta E values ​​greater than 5 are generally considered to represent two different colors (Mokrzycki and Tatol, Machine Graphics and Vision 20(4):383-411). 0 < ΔE < 1 - The observer does not notice the difference. 1 < ΔE < 2 - Only experienced observers can notice the difference. 2 < ΔE < 3: 5 - Even inexperienced observers will notice the difference. 3:5 < ΔE < 5 - Notice the clear difference in color. 5 < ΔE - The observer notices two different colors.

[0114] The results in Table 6 above demonstrate that the film used in this invention undergoes a significant color change when wetted with fragrance (Delta E greater than 5). This applies regardless of whether the fragrance is colored with a blue dye or not. In contrast, the comparison film did not undergo a color change (Delta E less than 5).

[0115] To avoid misunderstanding, when the dye is used in the fragrance formulation, the blue dye did not penetrate the film during use. This means that the film takes on a wet appearance when in contact with the (colored) fragrance, but returns to its original appearance at the end of its service life. Therefore, the Delta E values ​​achieved for films 1 and 3 of the present invention having colored fragrance formulations confirm that the present invention can provide a strong visual signal that the air purifying device has reached the end of its service life. This visual signal is advantageously stronger than that of comparative film 1.

[0116] Method 3 The average scores from the 10 panelists are shown below. The results indicate that film 1 of the present invention exhibits a far more significant change in appearance when in contact with a fragrance than comparative film 1. This improvement is clearly detectable to the human eye.

[0117] [Table 7] 1 = No change, 2 = Slight change, 3 = Moderate change, 4 = Large change, and 5 = Extreme change.

[0118] The results in Tables 5-7 above demonstrate that when films 1, 3, and 4 of the present invention are wetted with a volatile material, there are dramatic changes in appearance, color, and transparency, while the changes in appearance and transparency of comparative film 1 are far less noticeable.

[0119] This confirms that the present invention can provide a favorable and clear signal that the air purifier is properly activated and that the air purifier has reached the end of its service life.

[0120] Example 3: Sealing temperature The membrane must be completely sealed to the apparatus to ensure controlled evaporation of the fragrance through the membrane and to avoid leakage of the fragrance. Sealing may be carried out using a conventional heat sealing machine at a temperature sufficient to melt the materials of both the membrane and the part of the apparatus to which the membrane is sealed (e.g., a reservoir for containing the fragrance). This then joins the membrane and the apparatus together, creating a seal. However, if the sealing temperature is too high, the surface of the material may be overheated, inducing undesirable transparency. Higher sealing temperatures are also more energy-intensive and increase commercial production costs.

[0121] Therefore, it is desirable to keep the sealing temperature as low as possible.

[0122] The sealing temperatures of film 1 and comparative film 1 of the present invention are shown in Table 8 below. Films 1 and 2 of the present invention can be sealed at a lower temperature than comparative film 1. Film 3 of the present invention was not tested.

[0123] [Table 8]

[0124] The above embodiments demonstrate the following advantages provided by devices utilizing microporous membranes as defined herein. 1) The membrane allows for more efficient use of the fragrance supplied within the device, and fewer volatile materials remain trapped on the membrane at the end of the product's lifespan. 2) The film allows for improved fragrance release, particularly during the middle and end of the product's lifespan. This benefit is remarkably achieved while maintaining the same total product lifespan. 3) The film has a substantially different appearance when wet with a volatile material compared to its appearance when dry (whether before activation or at the end of the product's lifespan). This, advantageously, makes it easy for consumers to determine whether the product is properly activated and whether it needs to be replaced. This provides a double benefit to consumer satisfaction. a. The first benefit arises because, when a device such as the one described in U.S. Patent No. 8,740,110 or U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0047754 is activated, the consumer may notice that the amount of volatile material in the reservoir decreases rapidly immediately after activation as it passes through the burstable substrate, but there is no clear signal that the volatile material is in contact with the membrane, which may cause the consumer to become dissatisfied. b. A second advantage arises because consumers can more easily determine when a product has reached the end of its service life. 4) Films with a lower bulk density than conventional films can be sealed into the equipment at lower temperatures, potentially improving ease of manufacture and cost.

[0125] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents on which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. No reference to any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall any such invention be taught, suggested, or disclosed, either alone or in combination with any one or more other references. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0126] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for delivering volatile materials, comprising a delivery engine, a. A reservoir containing volatile materials, b. A microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, Equipped with a delivery engine, The microporous membrane has a volume-average pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm and is used in a device for delivering volatile materials.

2. The aforementioned delivery engine c. A burstable substrate fixed to the reservoir, d. Further comprising a bursting element positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate, The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the microporous membrane encloses the ruptureable substrate and the rupture element.

3. The aforementioned microporous membrane is 2 cm ２ ~100cm ２ , Optionally 2 cm ２ ~35cm ２ The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, having a surface area.

4. The aforementioned microporous membrane is 45-70% The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the porosity is optionally 45 to 60%.

5. The aforementioned microporous membrane is 0.6 to 2 cm ３ / g, Selectively 0.65–1.6 cm ３ / g, Furthermore, optionally 0.7–1.5 cm ３ The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, having a total pore volume of / g.

6. The aforementioned microporous membrane contains 0.3 to 0.8 g / cm³ ３ , Optionally 0.35 to 0.75 g / cm ３ , Furthermore, optionally 0.4–0.7 g / cm³ ３ The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, having a bulk density.

7. The microporous membrane has a thickness of 0.2 to 0.4 mm, Selectively 0.22 to 0.37 mm, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further optionally having a thickness of 0.25 to 0.35 mm.

8. The aforementioned microporous membrane 45-60% porosity, 0.65~1.5cm ３ Total pore volume per g, and 0.35-0.75g / cm ３ The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, having a bulk density.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the microporous membrane is not laminated.

10. The microporous membrane comprises polyethylene, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the polyethylene is optionally ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).

11. The aforementioned microporous membrane Contains polyethylene, Having a thickness of 0.2 to 0.4 mm, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is not laminated.

12. The reservoir contains a volatile material, and the volatile material is liquid at 25°C. Optionally, the volatile material has a vapor pressure of at least 8 Pa at 25°C. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the volatile material optionally has a vapor pressure of at least 30 Pa at 25°C.

13. The aforementioned delivery engine c. A burstable substrate fixed to the reservoir, d. Further comprising a bursting element positioned adjacent to the burstable substrate, The microporous membrane encloses the ruptureable substrate and the rupture element, The reservoir contains a volatile material, The apparatus is configured such that the activation of the bursting element allows contact between the volatile material and the microporous membrane. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the apparatus is configured to release at least 80% by weight of the volatile material within a period of 8 weeks at a temperature of 25°C after activation of the bursting element.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the microporous membrane has a first visible state when dry and a second visible state when wet with a volatile material, and the CIE2000 delta E value between the first visible state and the second visible state is 5 or more.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the microporous membrane has a first visible state when dry and a second visible state when wetted with a volatile material, and the difference between the luminous transmittance value of the first visible state and the luminous transmittance value of the second visible state is 25% or more, as measured by ISO 13468-2:2021.

Images