Blown films with scavenging agent and methods of making the same

Abstract

Provided herein is a blown film material comprising base polymer and a scavenging agent that is capable of absorbing, interacting with, or reacting with an odorous compound, such as a malodorous compound, thereby reducing the odor due to the odorous compound. The resulting blown film material will have useful applications. Also provided herein are related methods of manufacture.

Description

BLOWN FILMS WITH SCAVENGING AGENT AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 622,791, entitled “BLOWN FILMS WITH SCAVENGING AGENT AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME”, filed January 19, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to blown films containing an agent for the scavenging of odorous compounds, such as malodorous compounds, and methods of making the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] There are many items that are preferably stored, shipped and / or utilized in an environment that must be controlled and / or regulated. For example, containers and / or packages having the ability to scavenge odorous / malodorous compounds trapped therein have been recognized as desirable. The control of gaseous substances, including but not limited to odorous / malodorous compounds, may be desirable in medical, diagnostic, industrial chemical, laboratory, electronics and food packaging applications.

[0004] Conventionally, desiccants, oxygen absorbers and other active agents have been used in raw form, e.g., as loose particulates housed in sachets or canisters within packaging, to control the internal environment of the package. For many applications, it is not desired to have such loosely stored active substances. To address this problem, the assignee of the present application had developed active entrained polymers comprising active agents, wherein such polymers can be extruded and / or molded into desired forms, e.g., container liners, plugs, film sheets, pellets and other such structures. Optionally, such active entrained polymers may include channeling agents, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), which form channels between the surface of the entrained polymer and its interior to transmit a selected material (e.g., an odorous or a malodorous compound) to the entrained active agent (e.g., an agent to scavenge the odorous or malodorous compound).

[0005] Entrained polymers may be two phase formulations (i.e., comprising a base polymer and active agent, without a channeling agent) or three phase formulations (i.e., comprising a base polymer, active agent and channeling agent). Three phase entrained polymers and methods formaking the same are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911 ,937, 6,080,350, 6,124,006, 6,130,263, 6,194,079, 6,214,255, 6,486,231, 7,005,459, and U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2016 / 0039955, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth. These entrained polymers have been conventionally made as extruded products (e.g., pellets or films) or injection molded components (e.g., pucks, inserts or liners within containers).

[0006] Blown film technology makes possible the production of useful products, including sheets, films, cylinders, and tubes. The technology is particularly valuable for fabrication of bags and packaging for consumer products. In brief, the process includes softening and melting a polymer resin, followed by inflating the material, thereby affording a bubble enclosed by a film of the material. Importantly, the film formed in this inflation process can be quite thin, typically on the order of 10 mils or less.

[0007] Although the process is straightforward in concept, the polymeric material must meet certain requirements in order to be suitable for use. Properties such as the melting point and melt index, among others, will affect the success of the blown film process in forming material with suitable properties.

[0008] There remains a need to provide blown film material with the capability of scavenging odorous or malodorous compounds from a gaseous volume. Many uses can be envisioned from such material, including but not limited to incorporation into packaging for storage of foodstuffs and other products that are susceptible to organoleptic damage.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0009] Accordingly, in one aspect is provided a blown film material comprising base polymer and an active agent for the scavenging of one or more odorous compounds, including malodorous compounds, preferably a particulate or mineral-based active agent.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base polymer is chosen from a polyolefin and a polyester. In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises both a polyolefin and a polyester. In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer

[0011] In some embodiments, the active agent is an odor scavenging agent. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent is a malodor scavenging agent. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent is chosen from silica gel, zeolite, and molecular sieve.

[0012] In some embodiments, the blown film material further comprises a channeling agent. In some embodiments, the channeling agent is chosen from a polyglycol, glycerin polyamine,polyurethane, and polycarboxylic acid, or any combination of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the channeling agent is a water insoluble polymer. In some embodiments, the channeling agent is chosen from propylene oxide polymerisate, propylene oxide polymerisate- monobutyl ether, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0013] Also provided herein is a method to manufacture a blown film material comprising base polymer and an active agent for the scavenging of one or more odorous compounds, including malodorous compounds, the method comprising the steps of: extruding a suitable precursor material comprising a molten mix of a polymer and an odor scavenging agent in a screw extruder with warming to form a warmed material; passing the warmed material through a tubular die; expanding and stretching the warmed material with positive pressure to form an expanded and stretched material; and allowing the expanded and stretched material to cool.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] A full understanding of the invention can be gained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a plug formed of an entrained polymer that may be deposited onto a substrate according to methods of the disclosed concept;

[0016] FIG. 2 is a cross section taken along line 2-2 of Fig. 1;

[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross section similar to that of FIG. 2, showing a plug formed of another embodiment of an entrained polymer according to an optional embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0018] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an entrained polymer according to an optional embodiment of the disclosed concept, in which the active agent is an odor scavenging agent;

[0019] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a sheet or film formed of an entrained polymer according to an optional embodiment of the disclosed concept, adhered to a barrier sheet substrate;

[0020] FIG. 6 is a cross section of a package that may be formed using an entrained polymer according to an optional embodiment of the disclosed concept; and

[0021] FIG. 7 is a schematic drawing depicting representative equipment and an associatedprocess for forming blown film material.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] In one aspect, there is provided herein a blown film material comprising a base polymer and an odor scavenging agent.

[0023] In some embodiments, the base polymer is chosen from a polyolefin, a polyamide, and a polyester. In some embodiments, the base polymer is chosen from a polyolefin and a polyester. In some embodiments, the base polymer is chosen from polyethylene, polypropylene, a polyethylene / polypropylene copolymer, and poly(lactic acid).

[0024] In some embodiments, the base polymer has the formula (-CHR-X-)nwith -X- chosen from -CH2-, -COO-, and -CONH-, and R chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. Subscript “n”, indicating the number of monomer units in the polymer, is without limitation.

[0025] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises at least one block copolymer.

[0026] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of ester monomers. In some further embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of poly(alkylene) terephthalate monomers. In some further embodiments, the alkylene is chosen from ethylene, propylene, and butylene.

[0027] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of poly ether glycols.

[0028] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a copolyether-ester composition consisting essentially of long chain ester units having Formula I:-OGO-C(=O)-R-C(=O)- (I) and short chain ester units having Formula II:-ODO-C(=O)-R-C(=O)- (II) joined head-to-tail through ester linkages; wherein G is a divalent radical corresponding to removal of hydroxyl groups from a poly(alkylene oxide) glycol, with molecular weight between 400 and 6000 amu, inclusive, optionally between 400 and 4000 amu, inclusive, and D is divalent radical corresponding to removal of hydroxyl groups from a diol with molecular weight less than 250 amu, and R is a divalent radical corresponding to removal of carboxyl groups from a dicarboxylic acid with molecular weight less than about 300.

[0029] In some embodiments, the short chain ester units comprise 45% to 65%, inclusive byweight of the copolyether-ester composition.

[0030] In some embodiments, the poly(alkylcnc oxide) glycol is poly(trimcthylcnc oxide) glycol. In some embodiments, the poly(alkylene oxide) glycol is poly(tetramethylene oxide) glycol.

[0031] In some embodiments, the diol is 1,3-propanediol. In some embodiments, the diol consists of at least 70% of 1,4-butanediol. In some embodiments, the diol is 1,4-butanediol.

[0032] In some embodiments, the dicarboxylic acid is benzenedicarboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the dicarboxylic acid consists of at least 70% terephthalic acid. In some embodiments, the dicarboxylic acid is terephthalic acid.

[0033] In some embodiments, the base polymer further comprises poly (butylene terephthalate).

[0034] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that contains both a block of ester monomers and a block of poly ether glycols. In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a HYTREL® block copolymer. In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises HYTREL® 7246.

[0035] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer having a density between 1.1 and 1.4 g / cm3, inclusive, optionally between 1.2 and 1.3 g / cm3, inclusive, optionally 1.24 and 1.28 g / cm3, inclusive, optionally about 1.26 g / cm3.

[0036] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer having a melt mass-flow rate (2.16 kg and 100 °C; ISO 1133) between 10 g / 10 min and 16 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 11 g / 10 min and 15 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 12 g 1 10 min and 14 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally about 13 g / 10 min.

[0037] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer having a melt volume-flow rate (2.16 kg and 100 °C; ISO 1133) between 8 cm31 10 min and 16 cm3 / 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 10 cm3 / 10 min and 14 cm31 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 11 cm3 / 10 min and 13 cm3 / 10 min, inclusive, optionally about 12 cm31 10 min.

[0038] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer having a nominal strain at break (IO 527-1 / -2) between 500% and 560%, inclusive, optionally between 510% and 550%, inclusive, optionally between 520% and 540%, inclusive, optionally about 530%.

[0039] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a block copolymer having a flexural modulus (ISO 178, 23 °C) between 500 MPa and 600 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 520 MPa and 580 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 530 MPa and 570 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 540 MPa and 560 MPa, inclusive, optionally about 550 MPa.

[0040] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises an ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer. In some further embodiments, the alpha-olcfin is chosen from propylene, 1 -butene, 1 -pentene; 1- pentene with one or more methyl, ethyl, or propyl substituents; 1-hexene; 1-hexene with one or more methyl, ethyl, or propyl substituents; 1 -heptene; 1 -heptene with one or more methyl, ethyl, or propyl substituents; 1-octene; 1-octene with one or more methyl, ethyl, or propyl substituents; 1 -nonene; 1 -nonene with one or more methyl, ethyl, or propyl substituents; ethyl, methyl, or dimethyl-substituted 1-decene; 1-dodecene; and styrene. In some further embodiments, the alpha-olefin is chosen from propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1- nonene, 1-decene, and 1-dodecene.

[0041] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a copolymer derived from ethylene and one or more C3-C20 , optionally C3-C12 alpha olefin comonomers. In some embodiments, the copolymer consists of between 5% and 15% by mass, inclusive, of comonomer. In some embodiments, the molecular weight distribution MwI Mnis between 2 and 3, inclusive. In some embodiments, the molecular weight distribution Mz / Mwis less than 2, inclusive. In some embodiments, the density of the copolymer is less than 0.916 g I cm3.

[0042] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a metallocene polyolefin. In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a VLDPE.

[0043] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a density between 0.880 and 0.920 g I cm3, inclusive, optionally between 0.890 and 0.910 g / cm3, inclusive, optionally between 0.895 and 0.905 g I cm3, inclusive, optionally about 0.90 g / cm3.

[0044] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a melt flow index (ASTM D1238) between 14 and 20 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 15 and 19 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally between 16 and 18 g / 10 min, inclusive, optionally about 17 g / 10 min.

[0045] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a tensile yield strength (MD, ASTM D882) between 4.9 and 5.5 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 5.0 and 5.4 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 5.1 and 5.3 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 5.15 and 5.25 MPa, inclusive, optionally about 5.17 MPa.

[0046] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a tensile yield strength (TD, ASTM D882) between 4.3 and 4.8 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 4.4 and 4.7 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 4.45 and 4.65 MPa, inclusive, optionally between 4.5 and 4.6MPa, inclusive, optionally about 4.55 MPa.

[0047] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having an elongation at break (MD, ASTM D882) between 580% and 640%, inclusive, optionally between 590% and 630%, inclusive, optionally between 600% and 620%, inclusive, optionally about 610%.

[0048] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having an elongation at break (TD, ASTM D882) between 740% and 800%, inclusive, optionally between 750% and 790%, inclusive, optionally between 760% and 780%, inclusive, optionally about 770%.

[0049] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a secant modulus (MD, ASTM D882) between 0.067 GPa and 0.070 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.0683 GPa and 0.0693 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.0686 GPa and 0.0692 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.0688 GPa and 0.0690 GPa, inclusive, optionally about 0.0689 GPa.

[0050] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a secant modulus (TD, ASTM D882) between 0.750 GPa and 0.765 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.755 GPa and 0.761 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.756 GPa and 0.760 GPa, inclusive, optionally between 0.757 GPa and 0.759 GPa, optionally about 0.758 GPa.

[0051] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having an Elmendorf tear strength (MD, ASTM D1922) between 300 g and 360 g, inclusive, optionally between 310 g and 350 g, inclusive, optionally between 320 g and 340 g, inclusive, optionally about 330 g.

[0052] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having an Elmendorf tear strength (TD, ASTM D1922) between 500 g and 360 g, inclusive, optionally between 510 g and 550 g, inclusive, optionally between 520 g and 540 g, inclusive, optionally about 530 g.

[0053] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a peak melting temperature between 92 °C and 98 °C, inclusive, optionally between 93 °C and 97 °C, inclusive, optionally between 94 °C and 96 °C, inclusive, optionally about 95 °C.

[0054] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a haze (ASTM D1003) between 0.20% and 0.40%, inclusive, optionally between 0.25% and 0.35%, inclusive, optionally between 0.28% and 0.32%, inclusive, optionally about 0.30%.

[0055] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises a polyolefin having a gloss (ASTM D2457) between 90% and 96%, inclusive, optionally between 91% and 95%, inclusive, optionally between 92% and 94%, inclusive, optionally about 93%.

[0056] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises two block copolymers. In somefurther embodiments, one of the two block copolymers is an ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer as disclosed herein. In some further embodiments, the base polymer comprises EXACT™ 3040. In some further embodiments, one of the two block copolymers is a block copolymer that contains both a block of ester monomers and a block of polyether glycols as disclosed herein. In some further embodiments, the base polymer comprises HYTREL® 7246. In some further embodiments, the base polymer comprises both EXACT™ 3040 and HYTREL® 7246. In some further embodiments, the base polymer consists of a mixture of EXACT™ 3040 and HYTREL® 7246.

[0057] In some embodiments, the base polymer comprises both a polyolefin and a polyester. In some embodiments, the polyolefin ranges from 10% and 40% by weight of the total composition, optionally between 15% and 30%. In some embodiments, the polyester ranges from 20% and 80% by weight of the total composition, optionally between 25% and 70%, optionally 30% and 60%. In some embodiments, the polyolefin has formula (-CH2CHR-)n, and R is chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. In some embodiments, the polyester has formula ((-CH2)mCOO-)n, and m is chosen from 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. In some embodiments, the polyester has formula (-CHRCOO-)n, and R is chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. Subscript “n”, indicating the number of monomer units in the polyolefin or polyester, is without limitation.

[0058] In some embodiments, the active agent is an odor scavenging agent. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent is a malodor scavenging agent. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent is chosen from silica gel, zeolite, and molecular sieve. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent does not contain a metal oxide. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent does not contain a metal carbonate. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent does not contain a metal halide. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent comprises an acid. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent comprises a base.

[0059] In some embodiments, the zeolite is an MFI-type zeolite. In some embodiments, the zeolite is a ZSM-5 zeolite. In some embodiments, the zeolite is a hydrophobic zeolite. In some embodiments, the zeolite is a high silica zeolite. In some embodiments, the Si / Al ratio is 8 or above, optionally 9 or above, optionally 10 or above, optionally 20 or above, optionally 50 or above, optionally 100 or above. In some embodiments, the zeolite is a ZEOFLAIR zeolite. In some embodiments, the zeolite is chosen from ZEOFLAIR 100 and ZEOFLAIR 110.

[0060] In some embodiments, the zeolite is a BLANOVA zeolite. In some embodiments, thezeolite is chosen from BLANOVA DS 911 and BLANOVA DS 912.

[0061] In any embodiment, the active agent is preferably a particulate, granular and / or mineralbased material and is optionally present in at least 35% to 70%, optionally from 40% to 60%, optionally from 45% to 55% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

[0062] In some embodiments, the blown film material further comprises a channeling agent. In some embodiments, the channeling agent is chosen from a polyglycol such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), glycerin polyamine, polyurethane and polycarboxylic acid including polyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid.

[0063] In some embodiments, the channeling agent is a water insoluble polymer, such as a propylene oxide polymerisate-monobutyl ether, such as Polyglykol B01 / 240, produced by CLARIANT. In other embodiments, the channeling agent could be a propylene oxide polymerisate monobutyl ether, such as Polyglykol B01 / 20, produced by CLARIANT, propylene oxide polymerisate, such as Polyglykol DO 1 / 240, produced by CLARIANT, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon 6, nylon 66, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0064] In some embodiments, the base polymer has a formula chosen from (-CH2CHR-)nand (-CHRCOO-)n, with R chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. Subscript “n”, indicating the number of monomer units in the polyester, is without limitation. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H, CH3, C2H5, M-C4H9. M-C HB, and H-CsHn. In some embodiments, R is chosen from C2H5, 71-C4H9, and zz-CeH .

[0065] Also provided herein is a method to manufacture for a blown film material as disclosed herein for the scavenging of one or more odorous compounds, including malodorous compounds, the method comprising the steps of: extruding a suitable precursor material comprising a molten mix of a polymer and an odor scavenging agent in a screw extruder with warming to form a warmed material; passing the warmed material through a tubular die; expanding and stretching the warmed material with positive pressure to form an expanded and stretched material; and allowing the expanded and stretched material to cool.

[0066] In some embodiments, the extrusion is performed at a temperature between 140 °C and 190 °C, optionally between 145 °C and 175 °C, optionally between 150 °C and 170 °C,optionally between 150 °C and 165 °C. As used herein, the term “between” includes the endpoints of a stated numerical range.

[0067] In some embodiments, the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of 5 rpm or greater, optionally 10 rpm or greater, optionally 15 rpm or greater, optionally 25 rpm or greater, optionally 35 rpm or greater, optionally 45 rpm or greater, optionally 55 rpm or greater.

[0068] In some embodiments, the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of 65 rpm or less, optionally 55 rpm or less, optionally 45 rpm or less, optionally 35 rpm or less, optionally 30 rpm or less, optionally 25 rpm or less, optionally 20 rpm or less.

[0069] In some embodiments, the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of between 10 rpm and 75 rpm, optionally between 15 rpm and 65 rpm, optionally between 15 rpm and 60 rpm, optionally between 20 rpm and 50 rpm.

[0070] In some embodiments, the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of between 5 rpm and 35 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 30 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 25 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 20 rpm.

[0071] In some embodiments, the tensile strength of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the tensile strength of the blown film material is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0072] In some embodiments, the dart impact resistance of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the dart impact resistance of the blown film material is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0073] In some embodiments, the transparency of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the transparency of the blown film material is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0074] In some embodiments, the haze of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the haze of the blown film material is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0075] In some embodiments, the brittleness of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the brittleness ofthe blown film material is significantly less than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0076] In some embodiments, the density of the blown film material is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the density of the blown film material is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the density of the blown film material is significantly less than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0077] In some embodiments, the tensile strength of the blown film material in the machine and I or direction is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the tensile strength of the blown film material in the machine and I or direction is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0078] In some embodiments, the elongation of the blown film material in the machine and / or direction is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the elongation of the blown film material in the machine and / or direction is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0079] In some embodiments, the Young’s modulus of the blown film material in the machine and / or direction is significantly different from that of a comparable cast extruded film material. In some embodiments, the Young’s modulus of the blown film material in the machine and / or direction is significantly greater than that of a comparable cast extruded film material.

[0080] Without intending to be bound by any particular theory, the inventors have found that the selected process of producing or method of making the film material impacts the properties and / or characteristics of the resulting film material itself. As indicated above, the process of blowing the film material produces a blown film material having properties and characteristics, e.g., tensile strength, dart impact, transparency, haze, brittleness, density, elongation and Young’s modulus, that are different / distinguishable, e.g., advantageous, from a comparable film material composition that is produced by a cast extrusion process.

[0081] Unless otherwise noted, a numerical difference in a physical property of 10% or greater between a blown film and a cast extruded film will constitute a significant difference. It will be appreciated by a person of skill that certain physical properties exhibit less deviation from the average value. For these physical properties, a difference of less than 10% may be properly interpreted as a significant difference.

[0082] For comparison, a suitable cast extruded film can be prepared using methods known inthe art. The polymer resin is melted and homogenized, and the resulting melt is pumped through a suitable slit die to form a flat film, which is then cast onto cooling rolls. After solidifying, the film is then drawn down on a series of rolls to provide a cast extruded film having the same thickness as the film obtained with the blown film process.

[0083] Preferably, all parameters to form the film will be identical for the blown film and cast extruded film processes, excepting those parameters that are unique to only one process, including but not limited to details for inflating the bubble for the blown film process, and details of the draw down step for the cast extruded film. Otherwise, the parameters will be kept as similar as possible. In certain limited cases, it may be necessary to vary a parameter, due to the intrinsic differences in the two processes.

[0084] Certain blown films disclosed herein may not be obtainable with the cast extruded film process. More particularly, it may not be possible to obtain, with the cast extrusion process, a material obtainable with the blown film process without inducing a significant difference in a physical property.

[0085] One or more of the aforementioned physical properties can be compared for the blown film and the cast extruded film. The blown film process requires formation of a bubble, and not all polymer resins are amenable to formation of a bubble. For this reason, not all cast extruded films can be obtained by the blown film method. Conversely, the cast extruded film process does not require formation of a bubble, and this process is generally more readily available than the corresponding blown film process. However, as will be appreciated by a person of skill in the art, the cast extruded film process often fails to successfully afford films as thin as are available with the blown film process.

[0086] It will further be appreciated that certain of the aforementioned physical properties will be different for a blown film and an extruded film. Orientational properties are generally significantly different for blown and extruded film, since the process of inflating the bubble can affect alignment in the transverse direction. Similar effects are generally absent for extruded film. Other properties that derive from orientation can diverge between blown and extruded films.

[0087] Also provided herein is a container which comprises a blown film entrained polymer as disclosed herein and an interior space suitable for storage of a product. Such product may include, e.g., food, a medicament, a medical device or a drug delivery device, for example. Insome embodiments, the container comprises at least one article, comprising a blown film entrained polymer as disclosed herein, located within the interior space. In some embodiments, inclusion of the product within the container creates a headspace formed by the interior space that is not occupied by the product. In some embodiments, the container comprises a bottom surface, a top opening, and one or more sidewalls extending in a vertical direction from the bottom surface to the top opening. In some embodiments, the container further comprises a cover to close and / or seal the container.

[0088] Also provided herein is a method for reducing or eliminating malodor caused by a product, the method comprising storing the product in a container as disclosed herein.Definitions

[0089] As used herein, the term “active” is defined as capable of acting on, interacting with or reacting with a selected or targeted material (e.g., an odorous compound, such as a malodorous compound) according to the invention. Examples of such actions or interactions may include absorption, adsorption or release of the selected material.

[0090] As used herein, the term “active agent” is defined as a material that (1) is immiscible with the base polymer and when mixed and heated with the base polymer and the channeling agent, will not melt, i.e., has a melting point that is higher than the melting point for either the base polymer or the channeling agent, and (2) acts on, interacts or reacts with a selected material. The term “active agent” may include but is not limited to materials that absorb, adsorb or release the selected material(s). Active agents according to the invention may be in the form of particles, preferably minerals, but the invention should generally not be viewed as limited only to particulate active agents (unless a respective claim recites otherwise).

[0091] As used herein, the term “odor scavenging agent” refers to an active agent that is capable of lowering the concentration of an odorous compound from a gaseous environment. The odor scavenging agent may adsorb or absorb the odorous compound from the gaseous environment. Alternatively, the odor scavenging agent may chemically react with the malodorous compound. In some embodiments, the odorous compound, subsequent to reaction with the odor scavenging agent, is less volatile and thereby less distributed into the gaseous environment. In some embodiments, the odor of odorous compound, subsequent to reaction with the odor scavenging agent, may become less pronounced or less disagreeable.

[0092] The term “malodor scavenging agent” may be used herein to refer to an odor scavengingagent that is capable of lowering the concentration of a malodorous compound from a gaseous environment.

[0093] As used herein, the term “alkyl” refers to an acyclic group consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen. An alkyl group can be saturated or unsaturated. An alkyl group can be unbranched or branched. An unbranched alkyl group can be termed a “normal alkyl” group, and can be indicated with an “n” prefix. The term “n-Ci-ioalkyl” therefore refers to an unbranched alkyl group having at least one carbon and at most ten carbons.

[0094] As used herein, the term “polyolefin” refers to a polymer with formula (-CH2CHR-)n, with R chosen from H, alkyl, chloro, aryl, hydroxy, acyloxy, acetoxy, carboxy, and alkoxycarbonyl. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H, alkyl, and phenyl. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H and Ci-ioalkyl. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. In some embodiments, R is chosen from H and CH3. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is chosen from polyethylene, low-density polyethylene (“LDPE”), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), ultra-low-density polyethylene (ULDPE), and medium-density polyethylene (MDPE).

[0095] As used herein, the term “polyester” refers to a polymer with formula (-X-COO-)n, with X being a bivalent organic moiety. In some embodiments, the polyester has the formula (-CHRCOO-)u, with R chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl. In some embodiments, the polyester has the formula ((-CH2)mC00-)n, wherein m is chosen from 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. In some embodiments, the polyester has the formula (-OOC-Y-COO-Z)n, with Y and Z both being bivalent organic moieties. In some embodiments, Y = 1,4-phenylene. In some embodiments, Z is chosen from ethylene, butylene (tetramethylene), hexylene (hexamethylene), and 1,4- cyclohexenedimethylene. In some embodiments, the polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”). In some embodiments, the polyester is poly-1, 4-cyclohexylene-dimethylene terephthalate (“PCDT”).

[0096] As used herein, the term “base polymer” is a polymer optionally having a gas transmission rate of a selected material that is substantially lower than, lower than or substantially equivalent to, that of the channeling agent. By way of example, such a transmission rate would be a water vapor transmission rate in embodiments where the selected material is an odorous compound, such as a malodorous compound, and the active agent is a scavenging agent for the odorous / malodorous compound. The primary function of the base polymer is to providestructure for the entrained polymer. Suitable base polymers may include thermoplastic polymers, c.g., polyolefins such as polypropylene and polyethylene, polyisoprcnc, polybutadicnc, polybutene, polysiloxane, polycarbonates, polyamides, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene-methacrylate copolymer, poly(vinyl chloride), polystyrene, polyesters, polyanhydrides, polyacrylonitrile, polysulfones, polyacrylic ester, acrylic, polyurethane and polyacetal, or copolymers or mixtures thereof.

[0097] Referring to such a comparison of the base polymer and channeling agent water vapor transmission rate, in one embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least two times that of the base polymer. In another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least five times that of the base polymer. In another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least ten times that of the base polymer. In still another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least twenty times that of the base polymer. In still another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least fifty times that of the base polymer. In still another embodiment, the channeling agent has a water vapor transmission rate of at least one hundred times that of the base polymer.

[0098] As used herein, the term “channeling agent” or “channeling agents” is defined as a material that is immiscible with the base polymer and has an affinity to transport a gas phase substance at a faster rate than the base polymer. Optionally, a channeling agent is capable of forming channels through the entrained polymer when formed by mixing the channeling agent with the base polymer. Optionally, such channels are capable of transmitting a selected material through the entrained polymer at a faster rate than in solely the base polymer.

[0099] As used herein, the term “channels” or “interconnecting channels” is defined as passages formed of the channeling agent that penetrate through the base polymer and may be interconnected with each other.

[0100] As used herein, the term “entrained polymer” is defined as a monolithic material formed of at least a base polymer with an active agent and optionally also a channeling agent entrained or distributed throughout. An entrained polymer thus includes two-phase polymers and three phase polymers. A “mineral loaded polymer” is a type of entrained polymer, wherein the active agent is in the form of minerals, e.g., mineral particles such as molecular sieve, zeolite, or silica gel.

[0101] As used herein, the term “monolithic,” “monolithic structure” or “monolithic composition” is defined as a composition or material that docs not consist of two or more discrete macroscopic layers or portions. Accordingly, a “monolithic composition” does not include a multi-layer composite (although it may be part of a multi-layer composite).

[0102] As used herein, the term “phase” is defined as a portion or component of a monolithic structure or composition that is uniformly distributed throughout, to give the structure or composition it’s monolithic characteristics.

[0103] As used herein, the term “selected material” is defined as a material that is targeted, acted upon by, or interacts or reacts with an active agent and is capable of being transmitted through the channels of an entrained polymer. For example, in embodiments in which an odor scavenging agent, such as a malodor scavenging agent, is used as an active agent, the selected material may be an odorous compound, such as a malodorous compound, that can be absorbed by, interacted with, or reacted with the odor scavenging agent.

[0104] As used herein, the term “three phase” is defined as a monolithic composition or structure comprising three or more phases. An example of a three phase composition according to the invention would be an entrained polymer formed of a base polymer, active agent, and channeling agent. Optionally, a three phase composition or structure may include an additional phase, e.g., a colorant (thus “three phase” indicates at least three phases, including a base polymer, active agent and channeling agent).

[0105] Suitable channeling agents may include a polyglycol such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), glycerin polyamine, polyurethane and polycarboxylic acid including poly acrylic acid or poly methacrylic acid. Alternatively, the channeling agent 35 can be, for example, a water insoluble polymer, such as a propylene oxide polymerisate-monobutyl ether, such as Polyglykol B01 / 240, produced by CLARIANT. In other embodiments, the channeling agent could be a propylene oxide polymerisate monobutyl ether, such as Polyglykol B01 / 20, produced by CLARIANT, propylene oxide polymerisate, such as Polyglykol D01 / 240, produced by CLARIANT, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon 6, nylon 66, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0106] Any suitable odor scavenging agent for a given application may be used. In certain embodiments, a physical absorption scavenging agent may be preferred. These may include molecular sieves, zeolites, silica gels, clays and starches. Alternatively, the odor scavengingagent may be a chemical compound that reacts with the odorous compound. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent comprises an acid. In some embodiments, the odor scavenging agent comprises a base. In some embodiments, the reaction is an acid I base reaction.

[0107] In some embodiments, the base polymer ranges from 10% to 90% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 20% to 80% by weight, optionally from 30% to 70% by weight, optionally from 40% to 60% by weight.

[0108] In some embodiments, the base polymer ranges from 20% to 90% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 30% to 80% by weight, optionally from 40% to 70% by weight, optionally from 50% to 60% by weight.

[0109] In some embodiments, the base polymer ranges from 30% to 90% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 40% to 80% by weight, optionally from 50% to 70% by weight.

[0110] When an optional channeling agent is employed, the channeling agent may be provided in a range of 1% to 15% by weight, optionally 2% to 12%, optionally about 5%.

[0111] It is believed that the higher the active agent concentration in the mixture, the greater the absorption, adsorption, reaction or releasing capacity (as the case may be) will be of the final composition. However, too high an active agent concentration could cause the entrained polymer to be more brittle and the molten mixture of active agent, base polymer and channeling agent to be more difficult to either thermally form, extrude or successfully form a bubble in a blown film production process.

[0112] In some embodiments, the active agent loading level can range from 10% to 80%, optionally 35% to 70%, optionally from 40% to 60%, optionally from 45% to 55% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

[0113] In some embodiments, the active agent loading level can range from 10% to 70%, optionally 30% to 60%, optionally from 35% to 50% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

[0114] In some embodiments, the active agent loading level can range from 10% to 60%, optionally 20% to 50%, optionally from 25% to 45% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

[0115] In some embodiments, the active agent loading level can range from 10% to 50%, optionally 15% to 45%, optionally from 20% to 40%, optionally from 25% to 35%, by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

[0116] Optionally, channeling agent may be provided in a range of 1 % to 15% by weight, optionally 2-12%, optionally 5-12%, optionally about 10%, optionally about 9%, optionally about 8%, optionally about 7%, optionally about 6%, optionally about 5%, optionally about 4%, optionally about 3%, optionally about 2%. Optionally, the base polymer may range from 10% to 65% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 20% to 45% by weight, optionally from 25% to 35% by weight. Optionally, a colorant is added, e.g., at about 0.5-2% or at about 1% by weight of the total composition. Combination of any of the above ranges with respect to the base polymer, active agent, channeling agent, and colorant is contemplated.

[0117] FIGS. 1 - 6 illustrate entrained polymers 20 and various packaging assemblies formed of entrained polymers according to certain embodiments of the disclosure. The entrained polymers 20 each include a base polymer 25, optionally a channeling agent 35 and an active agent 30. As shown, the channeling agent 35 forms interconnecting channels 45 through the entrained polymer 20. At least some of the active agent 30 is contained within these channels 45, such that the channels 45 communicate between the active agent 30 and the exterior of the entrained polymer 20 via channel openings 48 formed at outer surfaces of the entrained polymer 25. While a channeling agent, e.g., 35, is preferred, the disclosure broadly includes entrained polymers that optionally do not include a channeling agent.

[0118] FIG. 1 shows a plug 55 constructed of an entrained polymer 20, in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. The plug 55 may be placed inside of a container. As aforementioned, the entrained polymer 20 includes a base polymer 25, a channeling agent 35 and an active agent 30.

[0119] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the plug 55 shown in FIG. 1. In addition, FIG. 2 shows that the entrained polymer 20 has been solidified such that the channeling agent 35 forms interconnecting channels 45 to establish passages throughout the solidified plug 55. At least some of the active agent 30 is contained within the channels 45, such that the channels 45 communicate between the active agent 30 and the exterior of the entrained polymer 20 via channel openings 48 formed at outer surfaces of the entrained polymer 25.

[0120] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a plug 55 having similar construction and makeup to the plug 55 of FIG. 2, where interconnecting channels 45 are finer as compared to those shown in FIG. 2. This can result from the use of a dimer agent (i.e., a plasticizer) together with a channeling agent 35. The dimer agent may enhance the compatibility between the base polymer25 and the channeling agent 35. This enhanced compatibility is facilitated by a lower viscosity of the blend, which may promote a more thorough blending of the base polymer 25 and channeling agent 35, which under normal conditions can resist combination into a uniform solution. Upon solidification of the entrained polymer 20 having a dimer agent added thereto, the interconnecting channels 45 which are formed there-through have a greater dispersion and a smaller porosity, thereby establishing a greater density of interconnecting channels throughout the plug 55.

[0121] Interconnecting channels 45, such as those disclosed herein, facilitate transmission of a desired material, such as an odorous compound, through the base polymer 25, which generally acts as a barrier to resist permeation of these materials. For this reason, the base polymer 25 itself acts as a barrier substance within which an active agent 30 may be entrained. The interconnecting channels 45 formed of the channeling agent 35 provide pathways for the desired material to move through the entrained polymer 10. Without these interconnecting channels 45, it is believed that relatively small quantities of the desired material would be transmitted through the base polymer 25 to or from the active agent 30.

[0122] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of an entrained polymer 10 according to the disclosure. The arrows indicate the path of a selected material, for example an odorous compound, from an exterior of the entrained polymer 10, through the channels 45, to the particles of active agent 30.

[0123] FIG. 5 illustrates an active sheet or film 75 formed of the entrained polymer 20 used in combination with a barrier sheet 80 to form a composite, according to an aspect of the invention. The characteristics of the active sheet or film 75 are similar to those described with respect to the plug 55. The barrier sheet 80 may be a substrate such as foil and / or a polymer with low permeability to an odorous compound of interest. The barrier sheet 80 is compatible with the entrained polymer structure 75 and is thus configured to thermally bond to the active sheet or film 75, when the active sheet or film 75 solidifies after dispensing.

[0124] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which the active sheet or film 75 and the barrier sheet 80 are combined to form a packaging wrap having active characteristics at an interior surface formed by the entrained polymer 20 in the active sheet or film 75, and vapor resistant characteristics at an exterior surface formed by the barrier sheet 80. In this embodiment, the active sheet or film 75 occupies a portion of the barrier sheet 80. The methods according to the invention for making the active sheet or film 75 and adhering it to the barrier sheet 80 areparticularly limited.

[0125] In one embodiment, the sheets of FIG. 5 arc joined together to form an active package 85, as shown in FIG. 6. As shown, two laminates or composites are provided, each formed of an active sheet or film 75 joined with a barrier sheet 80. The sheet laminates are stacked, with the active sheet or film 75 facing one another, so as to be disposed on an interior of the package, and are joined at a sealing region 90, formed about a perimeter of the sealed region of the package interior.

[0126] In some embodiments, the entrained polymer is positioned in a container and substantially all of the interior-facing part of the container is composed of the entrained polymer. In some embodiments, the container is fabricated so that the entrained polymer is located below the level of a liquid medium contained in the package, thereby providing direct contact between the active agent and the liquid medium.

[0127] A representative process for forming blow film material is depicted in FIG. 7. A precursor resin, in the form of pellets, is fed into hopper 105 where screw 110 rotates and forces the material forward while heat is applied, gradually forming a melt. The molten material 115 then flows through die 120, resulting in a hollow tube of material. Bubble 125 is formed in the material by introduction of air via a hole in the center of the die. The material progresses upward around the bubble, is cooled, and eventually is allowed to collapse through the action of collapsing frame 130. Throughout this step, nip rolls 135 pull the material upward and maintain proper tension. The collapsed material passes through a series of rollers, including edge trim 140, and is eventually taken up on winder 145.

[0128] Due to the nature of the blown film process, certain physical characteristics of the resulting film material may be significantly different than for films manufactured using other techniques, for example cast film extrusion. For example, a cast film process can produce a film with low and / or nonuniform orientation of the polymer strands within the material. In contrast, a blown film material may be highly oriented, with orientation uniform across the cylindrical bubble.

[0129] In turn, orientation of the polymer strands within the material can influence the degree of crystallinity, which can affect properties such as clarity / haze, tear strength and elongation, puncture resistance, and toughness.

[0130] Mechanical properties in a blown film can be significantly different than those for a castfilm. In the blown film process, the material is drawn in both the transverse and machine directions. In contrast, tcntcrcd films can have nonuniform strengths in these two directions.

[0131] Other mechanical parameters which can be different in blown films and comparable cast films, in either or both of machine and transverse directions, when applicable, are Young’s modulus, dart impact resistance, transparency, brittleness, and density.

[0132] The strength of a blown film can be different from that of a comparable cast film. Generally, the tensile strength of a blown film is comparable in the machine and transverse film directions. Elongation of a blown film is similar in the machine and transverse film directions.

[0133] Another important feature of the blown film process is that the rate of cooling of the film can be adjusted. In this way, the transparency of the film can be modulated.

[0134] Optionally, in any embodiment, the aforementioned extrusion process includes coextrusion of two or more layers wherein at least one such layer is the active layer (mixture of polymer and active agent) and at least another such layer is a polymer material without an active agent incorporated therein. In such embodiments, what may be formed is a multilayer composite in which at least one layer is an active entrained polymer layer.

[0135] Various aspects of the invention will be illustrated in more detail with reference to the following Examples, but it should be understood that the present invention is not deemed to be limited thereto.EXAMPLESExample 1. Formulations: Polyolefin

[0136] The following polyolefins (CH2CHR)n, combined with odor scavenging agent are envisioned.Table 1, Compositions.

[0137] Other formulations are contemplated with this disclosure. Certain formulations are envisaged using concentrations of EVA between 1% and 15%, for example, at 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, and 15%. Other channeling agents are envisioned, including polyglycols such as: polyethylene glycol, (PEG), ethylene - vinyl alcohol (EVOH), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH); polyamides such as nylon; and propylene oxide polymerisate monobutyl ether.Example 2. Extrusion conditions

[0138] The following conditions are contemplated for extrusion experiments.

[0139] The samples are run using blow film machine (LabTech). A polymer precursor is run at a screw temperature of 350 °F (177 °C) and a die temperature of 350 °F (177 °C). Under suitable conditions, the material will flow around the die to form a bubble. Different screw speeds up to 65 rpm can be attempted. The nip roll speed can be set at 0.5 ft / min or thereabouts. The external air can be set below 500 rpm to avoid rapid cooling.

[0140] Blow molding of polyethylene samples at screw and die temperature of 360 °F (182 °C) can be attempted. Various extrusion speeds can be explored in order to find satisfactory formation of a bubble from the warm polymer precursor.Example 3. EXACT™ Formulations

[0141] The following trial formulations are envisioned using the following materials:

[0142] Base Resin = EXACT™ 3040

[0143] Formulation #1 = 60% K360 SYEOSIV / 40% Resin-3040

[0144] Compositions of the EXACT™ 3040 formulations, in terms of the base resin and the Formulation #1 mixture, arc set forth in Table 4.Table 4, EXACT™ 3040 Formulations (based on Formulation #1 )

[0145] Compositions of the EXACT™ formulations, in terms of the base resin and the desiccant SYLOSIV® K360, are set forth in Table 5.Table 5, EXACT™ 3040 Formulations (based on overall composition)Example 4. EXACT™ 3040 / HYTREL® 7246 Polyester Formulations

[0146] The following trial formulations are envisioned using the following materials:

[0147] Compositions of the EXACT™ 3040 and polyester formulations are set forth in Table 8.Table 8. EXACT™ 3040 / HYTREL® 7246 Formulations (based on Formulation #1)Table 9. EXACT™ / HYTREL® 7246 Formulations (based on overall composition)

[0148] While the disclosed concept has been described in detail and with reference to specific examples thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the ail that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A blown film material comprising: a base polymer; and an odor scavenging agent, optionally wherein the odor scavenging agent is a granular, particulate and / or mineral-based material.

2. The blown film material as recited in claim 1, wherein the base polymer is chosen from a polyolefin and a polyester.

3. The blown film material as recited in claim 2, wherein the base polymer is a polyolefin having formula (-CH2CHR-)n, wherein R is chosen from H and n-Ci-ioalkyl.

4. The blown film material as recited in claim 2, wherein the base polymer is a polyester.

5. The blown film material as recited in claim 4, wherein the polyester has formula (-OOC- Y-COO-Z)n, wherein:Y is 1,4-phenylene, andZ is chosen from ethylene, butylene, hexylene, and 1,4-cyclohexenedimethylene.

6. The blown film material as recited in claim 4, wherein polyester has formula ((-CH2)mCOO-)n, wherein m is chosen from 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

7. The blown film material as recited in claim 4, wherein the polyester has formula (- CHRCOO-)n, wherein R is chosen from H and zi-Ci-ioalkyl.

8. The blown film material as recited in either one of claims 3 and 7, wherein R is chosen from H, CH3, C2H5, C4H9, M-C6HI3, and n-C8Hi7.

9. The blown film material as recited in claim 3, wherein R is chosen from C2H5, W-C4H9, and zz-C6Hi3.

10. The blown film material as recited in claim 7, wherein R is CH3.

11. The blown film material as recited in claim 1, wherein the base polymer is chosen from polyethylene, polypropylene, and a polyethylene / polypropylene copolymer.

12. The blown film material as recited in claim 8, wherein the base polymer is polyethylene.

13. The blown film material as recited in claim 1, wherein the base polymer comprises at least one block copolymer.

14. The blown film material as recited in claim 13, wherein the base polymer comprises an ethylene I alpha-olefin copolymer.

15. The blown film material as recited in claim 14, wherein the alpha-olefin is chosen from propylene, 1 -butene, 1 -pentene, 1 -hexene, 1 -heptene, 1 -octene, 1 -nonene, and 1 -decene, and 1 -dodecene.

16. The blown film material as recited in claim 15, wherein the alpha-olefin is 1-hexene.

17. The blown film material as recited in claim 16, wherein the base polymer comprises EXACT™ 3040.

18. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 14 - 17, wherein the base polymer further comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of poly(alkylene) terephthalate monomers.

19. The blown film material as recited in claim 18, wherein the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of poly(butylene) terephthalate monomers.

20. The blown film material as recited in claim 19, wherein the base polymer comprises a block copolymer that comprises a block of polyether glycols.

21. The blown film material as recited in claim 20, wherein the base polymer comprises a HYTREL® block copolymer.

22. The blown film material as recited in claim 21, wherein the base polymer comprises HYTREL® 7246.

23. The blown film as recited in any one of claims 14 - 17, wherein the material comprises between 50% and 90%, optionally between 55% and 90%, optionally between 60% and 90% of the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer.

24. The blown film as recited in any one of claims 14 - 17, wherein the material comprisesabout 64%, about 76%, or about 85% of the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer.

25. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 18 - 22, wherein the material comprises between 5% and 30%, optionally between 5% and 25%, optionally between 5% and 20% of the ethylene I alpha-olefin copolymer.

26. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 18 - 22, wherein the material comprises about 10%, about 12%, or about 16% of the ethylene / alpha-olefin copolymer.

27. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 18 - 22, wherein the material comprises between 50% and 85%, optionally between 55% and 80%, optionally between 60% and 75% of the block copolymer that comprises a block of poly(alkylene) terephthalate monomers.

28. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 20 - 22, wherein the material comprises about 60%, about 70%, or about 75% of the block copolymer that comprises a block of poly (alkylene) terephthalate monomers.

29. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 22, wherein the base polymer ranges from 10% to 70% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 20% to 60% by weight, optionally from 30% to 50% by weight, optionally from 40% to 60% by weight.

30. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 22, wherein the base polymer ranges from 20% to 90% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 30% to 80% by weight, optionally from 40% to 70% by weight, optionally from 50% to 60% by weight.

31. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 22, wherein the base polymer ranges from 30% to 90% by weight of the total composition, optionally from 40% to 80% by weight, optionally from 50% to 70% by weight.

32. The blown film material as recited in claim 1, wherein the base polymer comprises both a polyolefin and a polyester.

33. The blown film material as recited in claim 32, wherein the polyolefin ranges from 10%and 40% by weight of the total composition, optionally between 15% and 30%.

34. The blown film material as recited in either one of claims 32 and 33, wherein the polyester ranges from 20% and 80% by weight of the total composition, optionally between 25% and 70%, optionally 30% and 60%.

35. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 32 - 34, wherein: the polyolefin has formula (-CH2CHR-)n, and R is chosen from H and n-Cnioalkyl.

36. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 32 - 35, wherein: the polyester has formula ((-CH2)mCOO-)n, and m is chosen from 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

37. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 32 - 35, wherein: the polyester has formula (-CHRCOO-)n, and R is chosen from H and n-Cnioalkyl.

38. The blown film as recited in claim 37, wherein R is -CH3.

39. The blown film as recited in any one of claims 1 - 38, wherein the odor scavenging agent is chosen from silica gel, zeolite, and molecular sieve.

40. The blown film as recited in any one of claims 1 - 38, wherein the odor scavenging agent is chosen from BLANOVA® DS 912 and ZEOflair™ 100.

41. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 38, wherein the odor scavenging agent is an acid or a base.

42. The blown film material as recited in claim 41, wherein the odor scavenging agent has the formula M1M2CO3, with Mi and M2 independently chosen from H, Li, Na, and K, and wherein at most one of Mi and M2 is H.

43. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 38, wherein the odor scavenging agent is an ion-exchange resin.

44. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 38, wherein the odorscavenging agent is an oxidizing agent.

45. The blown film material as recited in claim 44, wherein the odor scavenging agent is an inorganic oxidizing agent.

46. The blown film material as recited in claim 44, wherein the odor scavenging agent is an organic oxidizing agent.

47. The blown film as recited in any one of claims 1 - 46, wherein the odor scavenging agent is a malodor scavenging agent.

48. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 47, wherein the odor scavenging agent comprises 10% to 80%, optionally 35% to 70%, optionally from 40% to 60%, optionally from 45% to 55% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

49. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 47, wherein the odor scavenging agent comprises 10% to 60%, optionally 20% to 50%, optionally from 25% to 45% by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

50. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 47, wherein the odor scavenging agent comprises 10% to 50%, optionally 15% to 45%, optionally from 20% to 40%, optionally from 25% to 35%, by weight with respect to the total weight of the entrained polymer.

51. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 50, further comprising a channeling agent.

52. The blown film material as recited in claim 51 , wherein the channeling agent is chosen from a polyglycol, glycerin polyaminc, polyurethane, and polycarboxylic acid, or any combination of the foregoing.

53. The blown film material as recited in claim 51, wherein the channeling agent is chosen from propylene oxide polymerisate, propylene oxide polymerisate-monobutyl ether, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), nylon, or any combination of the foregoing.

54. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 51 - 53, wherein the channelingagent is provided in a range of 1 % to 15% by weight, optionally 2% to 12%, optionally about 5%.

55. The blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 54, wherein a 1 inch square of the blown film material absorbs an odorous compound at ambient temperature with a rate of at least 0.2 g / day, optionally at least 0.4 g / day, optionally at least 0.6 g I day, optionally at least 0.8 g / day, optionally at least 1.0 g / day, optionally at least 1.2 g / day.

56. The blown film material of any one of claims 1 - 55 wherein a physical property chosen from clarity, tear strength, elongation, puncture resistance, toughness, Young’s modulus, dart impact resistance, transparency, brittleness, and density is significantly different for the blown film material as compared to a comparable cast film material.

57. A method for manufacturing the blown film material as recited in any one of claims 1 - 56, comprising the steps of: extruding a suitable precursor material comprising a molten mix of a polymer and an odor scavenging agent in a screw extruder with warming to form a warmed material; passing the warmed material through a tubular die; expanding and stretching the warmed material with positive pressure; and allowing the expanded and stretched material to cool.

58. The method as recited in claim 57, wherein the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of between 10 rpm and 75 rpm, optionally between 15 rpm and 65 rpm, optionally between 15 rpm and 60 rpm, optionally between 20 rpm and 50 rpm.

59. The method as recited in claim 57, wherein the extrusion is performed with a rotation speed of between 5 rpm and 35 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 30 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 25 rpm, optionally between 10 rpm and 20 rpm.

60. The method as recited in any one of claims 57 - 59, wherein the extrusion is performed at a temperature between 140 °C and 180 °C, optionally between 145 °C and 175 °C, optionally between 150 °C and 170 °C, optionally between 150 °C and 165 °C.

61. The method as recited in any one of claims 57 - 60, wherein the method includescoextrusion of at least two layers for forming the expanded and stretched material.

62. The method as recited in claim 61, wherein at least one layer includes a polymer material without an odor scavenging agent mixed therein.

63. The material produced by the method as recited in any one of claims 57 - 62.

64. An article of manufacture comprising the blown film entrained polymer as recited in any one of claims 1 - 56 and 63.

65. The article of manufacture as recited in claim 64, chosen from a container, a box, a tray, a carton, a bottle, a vessel, a pouch, a bag, a sachet, a packet, a gel pack, a blister pack, and a packaging material.

66. A container comprising: the blown film entrained polymer as recited in any one of claims 1 - 56 and 63, and an interior space suitable for the storage of a product.

67. The container as recited in claim 66, further comprising a cover to close and / or seal the container.

68. A method for protecting a product from an odorous compound, the method comprising the step of storing the product in a container as recited in either one of claims 66 and 67.

69. The method as recited in claim 68, wherein the product is a foodstuff.

70. The method as recited in claim 68, wherein the product is a medicament.

71. The method as recited in claim 68, wherein the product is a medical device or drug delivery device.

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