Shrinkable non-vinyl battery label

Abstract

A shrinkable non-vinyl label is disclosed that includes a single layer polyolefin film that includes a blend of a polypropylene and a polyethylene. The single layer polyolefin film can have a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F.

Description

DESCRIPTIONSHRINKABLE NON- VINYL LABELCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 619,116, filed January 9, 2024. The contents of the referenced patent application are incorporated into the present application by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONA. Field of the Invention

[0002] The invention generally concerns labels that can be used for energy storage devices or cells (e.g., batteries). In one aspect, the invention concerns a shrinkable battery label that includes a single layer polyolefin film. The polyolefin film can be a machine direction oriented film that includes a blend of polypropylene and polyethylene. The film can be free of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymers.B. Description of Related Art

[0003] Battery labels are commonly attached to a surface of an energy storage device or cell to provide information about the device or cell. By way of example, a battery label can provide information such as safety and usage instructions, replacement dates, voltage information, branding information, the type / size of the battery (e.g., A, AA, AAA, C, D, 9-V, etc.), positive (+) and negative (-) terminals, etc. This information is oftentimes important to safely use, store, and / or discard the battery.

[0004] The durability and / or printability of information on the battery label are oftentimes key attributes between commercially successful and unsuccessful battery labels. If a battery label is not durable, it can be damaged during the manufacturing, shipping, storing, and / or using processes. If a battery label is not printable or only marginally printable, the print can be removed or damaged during these same processes. In either instance, information about the battery can be lost through damage to the battery label. Another issue with battery labels is to ensure sufficient adhesion between an adhesive positioned between the battery label and a surface of a battery. Low adhesion of the label to the adhesive can result in a peeling away of the label from the adhesive and ultimately the battery surface.

[0005] One of the more accepted solutions to the durability, printability, and / or adhesion issues in today ’ s battery label market is the use of PVC-based polymers and / or PVC-based polymer blends. An example of this includes alkaline batteries labels that use shrinkable PVC films (see, e.g., PVC Heat Shrink Film & Label products offered by Jeongwood Trading Corporation (Korea). An issue with PVC-based battery labels is the presence of chlorine (Cl) in the polymer structure. In particular, PVC is typically made by a chemical reaction between chlorine and ethylene. The use of chlorine in manufacturing processes and / or end products can be complicated, heavily regulated, and can potentially lead to environmental concerns.

[0006] One potential solution to the use of PVC-based films for battery labels includes the use of multi-layered films or stacks that do not include PVC. Using multiple layers of films can help increase durability and / or printability of the resulting battery label. An example of this multi-layered set up is described in WO 2015 / 004316 to Mitchell et al. A downside to multi-layered films is that the multiple layers can increase the complexity and / or cost of the manufacturing process. Further, the use of more materials typically results in the use of more environmentally sensitive chemicals to create the battery label.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A discovery has been made that provides a solution to at least one or more of the aforementioned problems associated with battery labels. In one aspect, the solution can include the use of a polyolefin blend comprising polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) to manufacture a shrinkable battery label that does not include PVC. In a particular aspect, a wt. % ratio of PP to PE of 0.5 to 1.5, preferably 0.6 to 1.0, or more preferably 0.7 to 0.9, or even more preferably 0.75 to 0.85, can be used to create a single layer machine direction oriented polyolefin film that has sufficient durability, printability, and / or adhesion to adhesive properties that allows the film to be used as a battery label. In one particular, aspect, it was discovered that this film can be used as a label for alkaline- and / or non-alkaline-based batteries having a variety of sizes (e.g., A-size, AA-size, C-size, D-size, 9-V size alkaline-based batteries). In another aspect, it was further discovered that the battery label of the present invention can work particularly well (e.g., acceptable durability, printability, and / or adhesion to adhesive properties) when having a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. Another advantage of the battery label of the present invention is that it is more easy to recycle (mechanical and / or chemical recycling) due to the polyolefin blend comprising PP and PE, when compared with PVC and multi-layered films, which require more processing steps to fully recycle such PVC-based labels and multi-layered film-based labels.

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, a shrinkable non- vinyl battery label (also referred to herein as a “label”) is disclosed that includes a single layer polyolefin film comprising a blend of a polypropylene (PP) and a polyethylene (PE). The single layer polyolefin film can have any or all of: a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils; and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. In one aspect, the blend can include 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PP and 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PE. In a particular aspect, the blend can include 30 wt. % to 60 wt. % PP and 40 wt. % to 70 wt. % PE, or preferably 40 wt. % to 50 wt. % PP and 50 wt. % to 60 wt. % PE, or even more preferably about 45 wt. % PP and about 55 wt. % PE. In still another aspect, the blend can include a wt. % ratio of PP to PE of 0.5 to 1.5, preferably 0.6 to 1.0, or more preferably 0.7 to 0.9, or even more preferably 0.75 to 0.85 (or any range or number therein such as 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, or 1.5). In another aspect of the present invention, a battery is disclosed that includes a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable non- vinyl battery label. In yet another aspect of the present invention, an article comprising the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label is disclosed.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a batter label comprising: ( 1 ) a polyolefin film comprising a blend of polypropylene and polyethylene having a thickness of 1 mils to 1.8 mils, preferably about 1.4 mils; (2) an adhesive layer coated on at least a portion of one surface of the polyolefin film where the adhesive layer has a thickness of 0.30 mils to 1.0 mils, preferably about 0.5 mils; and (3) a release liner attached to at least a portion of the adhesive layer. The polyolefin film can be a single layer machine direction oriented film, which is capable of being printed on. The polyolefin film can be a blend of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and polypropylene (PP). In one aspect, the blend includes about 20 to 30 wt. % LLDPE, preferably about 25 wt. % LLDPE, 20 to 30 wt. % HDPE, preferably about 25 wt. % PP, 40 to 50 wt. % PP, preferably about 45 wt. % PP, and about 5 wt. % additives (e.g., processing aid, lubricant, TiCE, surfactant, and / or solvent, or any combination thereof). The adhesive layer can be a water based, emulsion, acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive that is positioned between the polyolefin film and the release liner. The release liner can be a polyester release liner that can have a silicone coating. The release liner can be a 92-gauge release liner.

[0010] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of producing the battery or the article is disclosed. The method can include contacting the shrinkable non-vinyl batterylabel with a surface of the battery or article. The method can further include applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label to cause shrinkage of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%.

[0011] Also disclosed in the context of the present invention are aspects 1-32. Aspect 1 is a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label comprising: a single layer polyolefin film comprising a blend of a polypropylene and a polyethylene, wherein the single layer polyolefin film has: a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils; and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. Aspect 2 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 1, wherein the label does not comprise polyvinyl chloride. Aspect 3 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 2, wherein the blend comprises 45 wt.% of polypropylene and 55 wt.% of polyethylene, based on the total weight of the blend. Aspect 4 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the polyethylene is low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene, or a blend thereof. Aspect 5 is the shrinkable non- vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the blend comprises at least 90 wt.% of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label. Aspect 6 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 5, further comprising a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition, wherein: the single layer polyolefin film comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the layer of PSA composition comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; and the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film is in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition. Aspect 7 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 6, wherein the layer of PSA composition has a thickness of 0.5 mils to 5 mils. Aspect 8 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 6, wherein the layer of PSA composition has a thickness of 0.6 mils to 0.9 mils. Aspect 9 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 6 to 8, further comprising a release liner that has a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the first surface of the release liner. Aspect 10 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is 1.30 mils to 1.50 mils. Aspect 11 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 10, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is 1.35 mils to 1.45 mils. Aspect 12 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 10, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is approximately 1.40 mils. Aspect 13 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the shrinkage in the machine direction orientation is: 5% to 7.5% at a temperature of 160 °F; 7.5% to 10% at a temperature of 180 °F; 10% to 15% at atemperature of 200 °F; 15% to 25% at a temperature of 220 °F; and / or 25% to 30% at a temperature of 240 °F. Aspect 14 is the shrinkable non- vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the label does not include aluminum, does not include silicone, does not include polyethylene terephthalate, and does not include a thermoset polymer. Aspect 15 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the single layer polyolefin film is mechanically recyclable. Aspect 16 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 15, wherein the label is in contact with a battery. Aspect 17 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 16, wherein the battery is an alkaline battery or is a non-lithium battery. Aspect 18 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 16 to 17, wherein the battery is a double A or triple A battery. Aspect 19 is the shrinkable non- vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 16 to 18, wherein the battery comprises a first end surface, a second end surface, and a side surface that is between the first and second end surfaces. Aspect 20 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of aspect 19, wherein the battery label covers at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, or more preferably at least 90% of the side surface of the battery. Aspect 21 is the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 20, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label.

[0012] Aspect 22 is a battery comprising a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any one of aspects 1 to 15. Aspect 23 is the battery of aspect 22, wherein the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label covers at least 90 % of the side surface. Aspect 24 is the battery of any one of aspects 22 to 23, wherein the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label further comprises a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition, wherein: the single layer polyolefin film comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the layer of PSA composition comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film is in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition; and the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the side surface of the battery. Aspect 25 is the battery of any one of aspects 22 to 24, wherein the battery is an alkaline battery or is a non-lithium battery. Aspect 26 is the battery of any one of aspects 22 to 25, wherein the battery is a double A or triple A battery. Aspect 27 is the battery of any one of aspects 22 to 26, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label.

[0013] Aspect 28 is an article comprising the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of any of aspects 1 to 21. Aspect 29 is the article of aspect 28, wherein the article is an alkaline battery or a non-lithium battery. Aspect 30 is the article of any one of aspects 28 to 29, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label. Aspect 31 is a method of producing thebattery of any one of aspects 22 to 27 or the article of aspects 28 or 29, the method comprising: contacting the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label with a surface of the battery or article; and applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label to cause shrinkage of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%. Aspect 32 is the method of aspect 31, wherein: applying heat at a temperature of 160 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 7.5%; applying heat at a temperature of 180 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 7.5% to 10%; applying heat at a temperature of 200 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 10% to 15%; applying heat at a temperature of 220 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 15% to 25%; and / or applying heat at a temperature of 240 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 25% to 30%.

[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, the labels of the present invention can be used in applications other than battery applications. By way of example, the labels of the present invention can be used in applications such as: 1. Flexible Packaging Labels (e.g., Food & Beverage Containers: Label films for shrink-sleeve applications on irregularly shaped bottles or jars (e.g., energy drinks, sauces, or condiments) or Snack Packaging (e.g., wraps for stand-up pouches or flexible packaging that require durability and custom shrink properties)); 2. Consumer Electronics: Device Wrapping (e.g., labels for smartphones, tablets, or small electronic components that may desire tight adhesion and shrinkability) or Cable or Wire Identification (e.g., shrinkable labels for wire harnesses or cable management); 3. Pharmaceutical & Medical Applications (e.g., tamper-evident packaging such as shrink wraps or labels for pill bottles, syringes, or diagnostic kits or sterilizable labeling for use in medical devices or surgical instruments that are subjected to sterilization); 4. Industrial Applications (e.g., pipe or tube labeling such as for pipes, tubes, or hoses that can accommodate unique shapes and endure environmental stress or component identification such as shrinkable labels for parts used in automotive or aerospace sectors); 5. Durable Goods & Safety (e.g., tool labeling such as shrinkable films for tools or equipment that undergo heavy use and require durable identification or labels for curved surfaces like fire extinguishers or compressed gas cylinders); 6. Sustainable Packaging (e.g., recyclable or compostable products such as films designed for sustainable labeling that require specific orientation and shrink properties to meet recycling standards); 7. Custom Branding & Decorations (e.g., promotional items such as wraps for promotional giveaways or decorative items like branded water bottles or custom beverage cans or home decor products such as labels for decorative candles or containers); 8. Automotive Applications (e.g., battery modules and electric vehicle components such as wrapsfor electric vehicle battery packs, hybrid systems, or other automotive electronics, or fuel system components such as labels for fuel tanks or pumps requiring resilience to heat and chemical exposure); and / or 9. Specialty Chemicals (e.g., chemical drums and containers such as shrinkable labels for industrial chemicals stored in barrels or large containers with irregular surfaces). In one aspect, any such label application can include a shrinkable non- vinyl label comprising: a single layer polyolefin film comprising a blend of a polypropylene and a polyethylene, wherein the single layer polyolefin film has: a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils; and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. In one aspect, the shrinkable non-vinyl label can be a flexible packaging label, preferably a label for food or beverage containers; a consumer electronics label, preferably a label for an electronic device, preferably a smartphone or a tablet, or preferably for a cable or wire; a pharmaceutical or medical application label, preferably a label for pill contains, syringes, or diagnostic kits, or even more preferably wherein the label is sterilizable; an industrial label, preferably a label for pipes, tubes, or hoses, or preferably a label used in an automotive or aerospace product or component; a durable goods and safety label, preferable a tool label or a fire extinguisher; a sustainable packaging label, preferably a label for recyclable or compostable products; a custom branding or decorations label, preferable for promotional items or home decor products; an automotive label, preferably for electric vehicle battery packs, hybrid systems, or other automotive electronics; a fuel system component label, preferably for fuel tanks or pumps; and / or a specialty chemicals label, preferably for containers storing industrial chemicals.

[0015] The labels of the present invention can be used as labels, films, tapes, and / or wraps for a variety of applications and / or on a variety of articles of manufacture, including, without limitation, batteries and non-battery articles of manufacture described above and throughout this specification.

[0016] Other embodiments of the invention are discussed throughout this application. Any embodiment discussed with respect to one aspect of the invention applies to other aspects of the invention as well and vice versa. Each embodiment described herein is understood to be embodiments of the invention that are applicable to other aspects of the invention. It is contemplated that any embodiment or aspect discussed herein can be combined with other embodiments or aspects discussed herein and / or implemented with respect to any method or composition of the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the invention can be used to achieve methods of the invention.

[0017] The following includes definitions of various terms and phrases used throughout this specification.

[0018] The term “battery” includes without limitation any of various types of batteries according to different aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] The term “label” includes without limitation any of the various shrinkable nonvinyl labels according to different aspects of the present disclosure. The labels of the present invention can be used as a label, tape, film, or wrap for a variety of articles of manufacture (e.g., battery and non-battery applications). A label can be referred to in this specification as a label, tape, film, or wrap. In one aspect, the label can have writing or print on a surface. In another aspect, the label does not include writing or print on a surface.

[0020] The terms “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In one non-limiting embodiment, the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%, more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

[0021] The terms “wt.%”, “vol.%”, or “mol.%” refers to a weight percentage of a component, a volume percentage of a component, or molar percentage of a component, respectively, based on the total weight, the total volume of material, or total moles, which includes the component. In a non-limiting example, 10 grams of component in 100 grams of the material is 10 wt.% of component.

[0022] The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or “preventing” or “avoiding” or any variation of these terms, when used in the claims and / or the specification includes any measurable decrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desired result.

[0023] The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and / or claims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result.

[0024] The use of the words “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with any of the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” or “having” in the claims, or the specification, may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.”

[0025] The words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0026] The shrinkable non- vinyl battery label of the present invention can “comprise,” “consist essentially of,” or “consist of’ particular ingredients, components, compositions, etc. disclosed throughout the specification. With respect to the transitional phrase “consisting essentially of,” in one non-limiting aspect, a basic and novel characteristic of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of the present invention is that the shrinkable non- vinyl battery label includes a single layer polyolefin with a blend of a polypropylene (PP) and a polyethylene (PE). The film can have a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation (MDO) of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F.

[0027] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following figures, detailed description, and examples. It should be understood, however, that the figures, detailed description, and examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only and are not meant to be limiting. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. In further embodiments, features from specific embodiments may be combined with features from other embodiments. For example, features from one embodiment may be combined with features from any of the other embodiments. In further embodiments, additional features may be added to the specific embodiments described herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Advantages of the present invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art with the benefit of the following detailed description and upon reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] FIG. 1A is a first illustration of the single layer polyolefin film of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. IB is a second illustration of the single layer polyolefin film of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 2A is a first illustration of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label according to one aspect of the present invention, comprising a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition and a single layer polyolefin film.

[0032] FIG. 2B is a second illustration of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label according to one aspect of the present invention, comprising the layer of the PSA composition and the single layer polyolefin film.

[0033] FIG. 3A is a first illustration of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label according to one aspect of the present invention, comprising a release liner, the layer of the PSA composition, and the single layer polyolefin film.

[0034] FIG. 3B is a second illustration of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label according to one aspect of the present invention, comprising the release liner, the layer of the PSA composition, and the single layer polyolefin film.

[0035] FIG. 4A is an illustration of a first stage of a process of labelling a battery utilizing a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label according to one aspect of the present invention, where the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label comprises a layer of a PSA composition and a single layer polyolefin film.

[0036] FIG. 4B is an illustration of a second stage of the process of labelling the battery utilizing the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label depicted in FIG. 4A.

[0037] FIG. 4C is an illustration of a third stage of the process of labelling the battery that includes heat-treating the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label depicted in FIG. 4B to shrink the battery label.

[0038] FIG. 4D is an illustration of a portion of the battery after the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label has been heat-treated in the third stage of the process depicted in FIG. 4C to shrink the battery label.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting a method of producing a battery or an article utilizing a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label, according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 6 is an illustration of experimental testing data associated with shrinkage of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in a machine direction (MD), according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 7 is an illustration of experimental testing data associated with shrinkage of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in a transverse direction (TD), according to some aspects of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] In one aspect of the present invention, a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label (also referred to herein as a “label”) is disclosed that includes a single layer polyolefin film comprising a blend of a polypropylene (PP) and a polyethylene (PE). The single layer polyolefin film can have any or all of: a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils; and a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. In aparticular aspect, the label does not comprise polyvinyl chloride. In one aspect, the blend can include 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PP and 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PE. In a particular aspect, the blend can include 30 wt. % to 60 wt. % PP and 40 wt. % to 70 wt. % PE, or preferably 40 wt. % to 50 wt. % PP and 50 wt. % to 60 wt. % PE, or even more preferably about 45 wt. % PP and about 55 wt. % PE. In still another aspect, the blend can include a wt. % ratio of PP to PE of 0.5 to 1.5, preferably 0.6 to 1.0, or more preferably 0.7 to 0.9, or even more preferably 0.75 to 0.85 (or any range or number therein such as 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, or 1.5). In some aspects, the polyethylene of the single layer polyolefin film can be low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene, or a blend thereof. In some aspects, the blend of PP and PE of the single layer polyolefin film can include at least 90 wt.% of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label.

[0043] In some aspects, the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label can further include a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition. The single layer polyolefin film can include a first surface and an opposing second surface, the layer of PSA composition can include a first surface and an opposing second surface, and the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film can be in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition. In a particular aspect, the layer of PSA composition can have a thickness of 0.5 mils to 5 mils (e.g., a thickness of 0.6 mils to 0.9 mils). In some aspects, the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label can further include a release liner that has a first surface and an opposing second surface, where the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the first surface of the release liner. According to various aspects, the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label can be 1.30 mils to 1.50 mils (e.g., 1.35 mils to 1.45 mils, such as approximately 1.40 mils).

[0044] In some aspects, the shrinkage of the single layer polyolefin film of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in the machine direction orientation can be any or all of: 5% to 7.5% at a temperature of 160 °F; 7.5% to 10% at a temperature of 180 °F; 10% to 15% at a temperature of 200 °F; 15% to 25% at a temperature of 220 °F; and 25% to 30% at a temperature of 240 °F. In some aspects, the label does not include aluminum, does not include silicone, does not include polyethylene terephthalate, and does not include a thermoset polymer. In some aspects, the single layer polyolefin film is mechanically recyclable. In various aspects, the label can be in contact with a battery (e.g., an alkaline battery or a nonlithium battery, such as double A or triple A battery, among other alternatives such as a AAAA,a D, a C, or a 9V battery). In some aspects, the battery can have a first end surface, a second end surface, and a side surface that is between the first and second end surfaces. In a particular aspect, the battery label covers at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, or more preferably at least 90% of the side surface of the battery. According to various aspects, the label has been heat- treated to shrink the battery label.

[0045] In another aspect of the present invention, a battery is disclosed that includes a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label. In a particular aspect, the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label can cover at least 90 % of the side surface of the battery. In some aspects, the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label can further include a layer of a PSA composition, wherein: the single layer polyolefin film comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the layer of PSA composition comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film is in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition; and the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the side surface of the battery. In various aspects, the battery can include an alkaline battery or a nonlithium battery (e.g., a double A or triple A battery, etc.). In various aspects, the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label.

[0046] In yet another aspect of the present invention, an article comprising the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label is disclosed. In a particular aspect, the article is an alkaline battery or a non-lithium battery. In some aspects, the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label. In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of producing the battery or the article is disclosed. The method can include contacting the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label with a surface of the battery or article. The method can further include applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label to cause shrinkage of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%. In one aspect, applying heat at a temperature of 160 °F can result in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 7.5%. In another aspect, applying heat at a temperature of 180 °F can result in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 7.5% to 10%. In yet another aspect, applying heat at a temperature of 200 °F can result in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 10% to 15%. In another aspect, applying heat at a temperature of 220 °F can result in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 15% to 25%. In yet another aspect, applying heat at a temperature of 240 °F can result in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 25% to 30%.

[0047] These and other non-limiting aspects of the present invention are discussed in further detail in the following sections.A. Shrinkable Non-Vinyl Label1. Single Layer Polyolefin Film

[0048] FIG. 1A depicts a simplified side view of a single layer polyolefin film 102 of a shrinkable non- vinyl battery label of the present disclosure, and FIG. IB depicts a perspective view of the single layer polyolefin film 102.

[0049] FIG. IB illustrates that the single layer polyolefin film 102 has a length 110, a width 112, and a thickness 114. As further described herein, the length 110 and the width 112 of the single layer polyolefin film 102 may depend on the dimensions of a particular type of battery to be labeled (e.g., AA, AAA, AAAA, C, D, 9V, etc.). In subsequent figures, the single layer polyolefin film 102 of FIGS. 1A and IB is depicted as being utilized to label a AA type battery as an illustrative, non-limiting example.

[0050] The length 110 of the single layer polyolefin film 102 may represent an orientation of the film 102 in a “machine direction” (MD) during film manufacturing operations (also referred to herein as a “machine direction orientation” or simply MDO), and the width 112 of the single layer polyolefin film 102 may represent an orientation of the film 102 in a “transverse direction” (TD) during film manufacturing operations (also referred to herein as a “transverse direction orientation” or simply TDO).

[0051] In one aspect, the blend can include 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PP and 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 wt. % PE. In a particular aspect, the blend can include 30 wt. % to 60 wt. % PP and 40 wt. % to 70 wt. % PE, or preferably 40 wt. % to 50 wt. % PP and 50 wt. % to 60 wt. % PE, or even more preferably about 45 wt. % PP and about 55 wt. % PE. In still another aspect, the blend can include a wt. % ratio of PP to PE of 0.5 to 1.5, preferably 0.6 to 1.0, or more preferably 0.7 to 0.9, or even more preferably 0.75 to 0.85 (or any range or number therein such as 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, or 1.5). In some aspects, the blend of PP and PE of the single layer polyolefin film can include at least 90 wt.% of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label. In some aspects, the polyethylene of the single layer polyolefin film 102 can be low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene (HDPE), or a blend thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the blend can include 45 wt.% of polypropylene, 25 wt.% of LLDPE, 25 wt.% of HDPE, and 5 wt. % of processing aid / lubricant / surfactant / acid / solvent.

[0052] In some aspects, the thickness 114 of the single layer polyolefin film 102 can be 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils. According to various aspects, the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film 102 can be 1.30 mils to 1.50 mils (e.g., 1.35 mils to 1.45 mils, such as approximately 1.40 mils). The single layer polyolefin film 102 includes a first surface (“bottom” surface in FIGS. 1A and IB) and an opposing second surface (“top” surface in FIGS. 1A and IB).

[0053] In some aspects, the single layer polyolefin film 102 can have a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F. In some aspects, the shrinkage of the single layer polyolefin film of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in the machine direction orientation can be any or all of: 5% to 7.5% at a temperature of 160 °F; 7.5% to 10% at a temperature of 180 °F; 10% to 15% at a temperature of 200 °F; 15% to 25% at a temperature of 220 °F; and 25% to 30% at a temperature of 240 °F.2. Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Composition (PSA)

[0054] FIG. 2A depicts a simplified side view of a particular embodiment of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label 200 that includes a layer of a PSA composition 202 and the single layer polyolefin film 102 depicted in FIGS. 1A and IB. As previously described, the single layer polyolefin film 102 includes a first surface (“bottom” surface in FIGS. 1A and IB) and an opposing second surface (“top” surface in FIGS. 1A and IB). FIG. 2A illustrates that the layer of the PSA composition 202 can include a first surface (“bottom” surface in FIG. 2A) and an opposing second surface (“top” surface in FIG. 2A). FIG. 2A further illustrates that the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film 102 (“top” surface) can be in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition 202. FIG. 2B depicts a perspective view of the layer of PSA composition 202 that is in contact with the underlying single layer polyolefin film 102 (as depicted in FIG. IB).

[0055] FIG. 2B illustrates that the layer of PSA composition 202 has a length 210, a width 212, and a thickness 214. As previously described herein with respect to FIGS. 1A and IB, the length 210 and the width 212 of the layer of PSA composition 202 may depend on the dimensions of a particular type of battery to be labeled (e.g., AA, AAA, AAAA, C, D, 9V, etc.). In subsequent figures, the single layer polyolefin film 102 of FIGS. 1A and IB and the layer of PSA composition 202 of FIGS. 2A and 2B are depicted as being utilized to label a AA type battery as an illustrative, non-limiting example.

[0056] In some aspects, the layer of PSA composition 202 can have a thickness of 0.5 mils to 5 mils, preferably a thickness of 0.6 mils to 0.9 mils.3. Release Liner

[0057] FIG. 3A depicts a simplified side view of a particular embodiment of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label 300 that includes a release liner 302, the layer of PSA composition 202, and the single layer polyolefin film 102 depicted in FIGS. 1A and IB. As previously described, the layer of PSA composition 202 includes a first surface (“bottom” surface in FIGS. 2A and 2B) and an opposing second surface (“top” surface in FIGS. 2A and 2B). FIG. 3 A illustrates that the release liner 302 can include a first surface (“bottom” surface in FIG. 3 A) and an opposing second surface (“top” surface in FIG. 3A). FIG. 3 A further illustrates that the second surface of the layer of PSA composition 202 (“top” surface) can be in contact with the first surface of the release liner 302. FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of the release liner 302 that is in contact with the underlying layer of PSA composition 202 (as depicted in FIG. 2B).

[0058] FIG. 3B illustrates that the release liner 302 has a length 310, a width 312, and a thickness 314. As previously described herein with respect to FIGS. 1A and IB, the length 310 and the width 312 of the release liner 302 may depend on the dimensions of a particular type of battery to be labeled (e.g., AA, AAA, AAAA, C, D, 9V, etc.). In subsequent figures, the single layer polyolefin film 102 of FIGS. 1A and IB, the layer of PSA composition 202 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, and the release liner 302 of FIGS. 3 A and 3B are depicted as being utilized to label a AA type battery as an illustrative, non-limiting example.

[0059] In some aspects, the release liner 302 can have a thickness of 1.30 mils to 1.50 mils, preferably 1.35 mils to 1.45 mils, or more preferably approximately 1.40 mils.B. Battery

[0060] In another aspect of the present invention, a battery is disclosed that includes a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label. In a particular aspect, the battery label covers at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, or more preferably at least 90% of the side surface of the battery. According to various aspects, the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label.

[0061] In various aspects, the battery can include an alkaline battery or a non-lithium battery, such as double A or triple A battery, among other alternatives such as a AAAA, a D, aC, or a 9V battery.

[0062] FIG. 4A depicts a first stage 400 of a process of labelling a battery 402 utilizing the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label 200 (as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, with the release liner 302 depicted in FIGS. 3 A and 3B having been removed) according to one aspect of the present invention. As previously illustrated and described herein, the shrinkable non-vinylbattery label 200 comprises the layer of PSA composition 202 and the single layer polyolefin film 102.

[0063] FIG. 4A illustrates that the battery 402 includes a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface 410 positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable nonvinyl battery label 200.

[0064] FIG. 4B depicts a second stage 420 of the process of labelling the battery 402 utilizing the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label depicted in FIG. 4A. In FIG. 4B, the layer of PSA composition 202 is in contact with the surface of the battery 402.

[0065] FIG. 4C depicts a third stage 430 of the process of labelling the battery 402 that includes heat-treating the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label depicted in FIG. 4B to shrink the battery label.

[0066] FIG. 4D is a diagram 440 depicting a portion of the battery 402 after the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label 200 has been heat-treated in the third stage of the process depicted in FIG. 4C to shrink the battery label 200. FIG. 4D further illustrates that the PSA composition 202 is in contact with the surface 410 of the battery 402 and that the single layer polyolefin film 102 overlies the PSA composition 202.

[0067] FIG. 4D further illustrates that, in a particular aspect, the battery label 200 covers at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, or more preferably at least 90% of the side surface 410 of the battery 402. According to various aspects, the label 200 has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label 200. FIG. 4D further depicts an example of a battery terminal 442 that is not covered by the label 200 after heat shrinking and that the battery label 200 may cover at least a portion of another side of the battery 402 with a dimension identified by reference character 444.C. Method of Producing the Battery

[0068] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting a method 500 of producing a battery or an article utilizing a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label, according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates that the method 500 can include contacting a shrinkable non- vinyl battery label with a surface of the battery or article, at 510. For example, referring to the first and second stages 400, 420 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the battery label 200 may include the layer of PSA composition 202 in contact with the single layer polyolefin film 102.

[0070] FIG. 5 illustrates that the method 500 can further include applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label to cause shrinkage of the shrinkable non-vinyl battery labelin the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%, at 520. For example, while not expressly shown in the third and fourth stages 430, 440 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4C, applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label 200 may cause shrinkage of the label 200 in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%, as described further herein with respect to the experimental data in depicted in FIG. 6 in the following examples.EXAMPLES

[0071] The present invention will be described in greater detail by way of specific examples. The following examples are offered for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention in any manner. Those of skill in the art will readily recognize a variety of noncritical parameters which can be changed or modified to yield essentially the same results.1. Example 1

[0072] FIG. 6 is an illustration of experimental testing data associated with shrinkage of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in a machine direction (MD), according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0073] In FIG. 6, three tests were conducted for shrinkage in the MD orientation at several different temperatures. FIG. 6 illustrates that three experimental tests indicated that applying heat at a temperature of 160 °F resulted in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 7.5%. As another example, FIG. 6 illustrates that three experimental tests indicated that applying heat at a temperature of 180 °F resulted in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 7.5% to 10%. As yet another example, FIG. 6 illustrates that three experimental tests indicated that applying heat at a temperature of 200 °F resulted in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 10% to 15%. As a further example, FIG. 6 illustrates that three experimental tests indicated that applying heat at a temperature of 220 °F resulted in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 15% to 25%. As another example, FIG. 6 illustrates that three experimental tests indicated that applying heat at a temperature of 240 °F resulted in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 25% to 30%.2. Example 2

[0074] FIG. 7 is an illustration of experimental testing data associated with shrinkage of a shrinkable non-vinyl battery label in a transverse direction (TD), according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0075] In FIG. 7, three tests were conducted for shrinkage in the TD orientation at several different temperatures. FIG. 7 illustrates three experimental test results for temperatures of 160 °F, 180 °F, 200 °F, 220 °F, and 240 °F.

[0076] Although embodiments of the present application and their advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the above disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein can be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A shrinkable non-vinyl label comprising: a single layer polyolefin film comprising a blend of a polypropylene and a polyethylene, wherein the single layer polyolefin film has: a thickness of 1.20 mils to 1.60 mils; and / or a shrinkage in a machine direction orientation of 5% to 30% at a temperature range of 160 °F to 240 °F.

2. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 1, wherein the label is a battery label.

3. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the label does not comprise polyvinyl chloride.

4. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the blend comprises 45 wt.% of polypropylene and 55 wt.% of polyethylene, based on the total weight of the blend, preferably wherein the polyethylene is low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, medium density polyethylene, or high density polyethylene, or a blend thereof.

5. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the blend comprises at least 90 wt.% of the shrinkable non-vinyl label.

6. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition, wherein: the single layer polyolefin film comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the layer of PSA composition comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; and the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film is in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition.

7. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 6, wherein the layer of PSA composition has a thickness of 0.5 mils to 5 mils.

8. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 6, wherein the layer of PSA composition has a thickness of 0.6 mils to 0.9 mils.

9. The shrinkable non- vinyl label of any one of claims 6 to 8, further comprising a release liner that has a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the first surface of the release liner.

10. The shrinkable non- vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is 1.30 mils to 1.50 mils.

11. The shrinkable non- vinyl label of claim 10, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is 1.35 mils to 1.45 mils.

12. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 10, wherein the thickness of the single layer polyolefin film is approximately 1.40 mils.

13. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the shrinkage in the machine direction orientation is:5% to 7.5% at a temperature of 160 °F;7.5% to 10% at a temperature of 180 °F;10% to 15% at a temperature of 200 °F;15% to 25% at a temperature of 220 °F; and / or25% to 30% at a temperature of 240 °F.

14. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the label does not include aluminum, does not include silicone, does not include polyethylene terephthalate, and does not include a thermoset polymer.

15. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the single layer polyolefin film is mechanically recyclable.

16. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the label is in contact with a battery.

17. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 16, wherein the battery is an alkaline battery or is a non-lithium battery.

18. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the battery is a double A or triple A battery.

19. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the battery comprises a first end surface, a second end surface, and a side surface that is between the first and second end surfaces.

20. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of claim 19, wherein the label covers at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, or more preferably at least 90% of the side surface of the battery.

21. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the label.

22. The shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the label is: a flexible packaging label, preferably a label for food or beverage containers; a consumer electronics label, preferably a label for an electronic device, preferably a smartphone or a tablet, or preferably for a cable or wire; a pharmaceutical or medical application label, preferably a label for pill contains, syringes, or diagnostic kits, or even more preferably wherein the label is sterilizable; an industrial label, preferably a label for pipes, tubes, or hoses, or preferably a label used in an automotive or aerospace product or component; a durable goods and safety label, preferable a tool label or a fire extinguisher; a sustainable packaging label, preferably a label for recyclable or compostable products; a custom branding or decorations label, preferable for promotional items or home decor products; an automotive label, preferably for electric vehicle battery packs, hybrid systems, or other automotive electronics; a fuel system component label, preferably for fuel tanks or pumps; and / or a specialty chemicals label, preferably for containers storing industrial chemicals.

23. A battery comprising a first end, a second end, and a side having a surface positioned between the first and second end and the shrinkable non-vinyl label of any one of claims 1 to 15.

24. The battery of claim 23, wherein the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label covers at least 90 % of the side surface.

25. The battery of any one of claims 23 to 24, wherein the shrinkable non-vinyl battery label further comprises a layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) composition, wherein: the single layer polyolefin film comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface; the layer of PSA composition comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface;the second surface of the single layer polyolefin film is in contact with the first surface of the layer of PSA composition; and the second surface of the layer of PSA composition is in contact with the side surface of the battery.

26. The battery of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the battery is an alkaline battery or is a non-lithium battery.

27. The battery of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the battery is a double A or triple A battery.

28. The battery of any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the battery label.

29. An article comprising the shrinkable non- vinyl label of any of claims 1 to 21.

30. The article of claim 29, wherein the article is an alkaline battery or a non-lithium battery.

31. The article of any one of claims 29 to 30, wherein the label has been heat-treated to shrink the label.

32. A method of producing the battery of any one of claims 23 to 28 or the article of claims 29 or 30, the method comprising: contacting the shrinkable non-vinyl label with a surface of the battery or article; and applying heat to the shrinkable non-vinyl label to cause shrinkage of the shrinkable non-vinyl label in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 30%.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein: applying heat at a temperature of 160 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 5% to 7.5%; applying heat at a temperature of 180 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 7.5% to 10%; applying heat at a temperature of 200 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 10% to 15%; applying heat at a temperature of 220 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 15% to 25%; and / orapplying heat at a temperature of 240 °F results in shrinkage in the machine direction orientation of 25% to 30%.

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