Multi-component fiber-based container with molded fiber threads

Abstract

The present technology generally relates to a multi-component fiber-based container comprising multiple fiber-molded parts bonded together to form a container. The fiber-molded body of the container comprises two or more longitudinal sections, each with an integrated neck region on one end and seam flanges along their vertical edges. The neck region has threads on its external surface and the seam flanges on the neck region are contoured to match the thread profile for enabling attachment of a closure onto the container.

Description

[0001] MULTI-COMPONENT FIBER-BASED CONTAINER WITH MOLDED FIBER THREADS

[0002] FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0003]

[0001] The present technology relates to fiber-based containers comprising multiple longitudinal sections with seam flanges along the vertical edges and integrated neck with molded threads.

[0004] BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0005]

[0002] Fiber containers can be manufactured as a single piece or as multiple pieces which are then assembled to form a container. Production of single-piece fiber containers necessitates the use of more complex and sophisticated equipment. This requirement poses a significant limitation on the scalability and the costs of the production process as well as container performance and geometric constraints on the container design.

[0006]

[0003] The concept of a modular container, made up of multiple components, presents a range of advantages. Compared to single piece production, modular containers provide the advantage of ease of molding and production, a wider range of manufacturable shapes and sizes, and also offer feasibility for all the different methods of application of barrier materials. It also provides design versatility by offering the ability to employ diverse materials for distinct parts, depending on their specific functions. Modular containers have the potential to contribute significantly to sustainable practices by minimizing material consumption and facilitating ease of recycling when using different materials for different parts.

[0007]

[0004] Modular containers are formed by attaching different parts together using various methods such as adhesive bonding, thermal bonding including conductive and radiative, interlocking design, or mechanical fastening. Adhesive bonding and thermal bonding are widely used methods. To ensure effective bonding strength, a sufficient surface area for bonding is required which can be achieved through tabs or flange designs that provide ample bonding space. However, these designs may not offer an aesthetically pleasing seamless finish, and they can also create additional challenges in certain areas like the neck region where closure operations are affected or the base in which stability is required. To address this issue, modular containers often feature a separate single-component neck design without flanges from joining multiple parts. Additionally, different components may be split along their horizontal axis to prevent flanges from appearing in the neck region where closures are attached.

[0008]

[0005] Fiber containers require additional strength in the neck to withstand handling pressures such as dispensing, opening and closing of the closure connected to the neck, and ensuring stability when pouring out contents. As a result, fiber container necks are typically made of rigid materials like plastic rather than fiber material. This approach can pose challenges to recyclability due to the presence of non-fiber components. To minimize these issues, it is desirable to use minimal nonfiber components and maximize the use of fiber-based material for all parts.

[0009]

[0006] References WO2023140774A1 , JP2001089999A, and JP2002019756A, all incorporated herein by reference, describe fiber-based threaded neck regions. However, these containers are either molded as a single piece with a threaded neck, or they lack sufficient information on manufacturing the body portion.

[0010]

[0007] Document US1 1286104B2, incorporated herein by reference, teaches a fiber-based container having two longitudinal pieces with a fiber-molded neck featuring threads in Fig.6 and Fig.7. However, there is no information provided on the method of attaching the two halves together or on the sealing tabs.

[0011]

[0008] To address these limitations, there is a need to develop fiber-based container designs that overcome the challenges associated with seam flanges in the neck region when using two-halved longitudinal fiber-based body parts with integrated necks featuring molded threads. Specifically, it would be beneficial to create a design where the fiber-molded neck has sufficient strength while minimizing non-fiber component usage for imparting additional strength.

[0012] BRIEF SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY

[0013]

[0009] In one aspect, the present technology provides a multi-component fiberbased container, comprising: a fiber-molded body with two or more longitudinal sections having an integrated neck region on one end which are attached together to form a complete body; and a closure; wherein the longitudinal sections of the body have seam flanges along their respective vertical edges and / or along the edge opposite the neck as a means for bonding; wherein the neck region has threads on its external surface; and wherein the seam flanges on the neck region are contoured to match the thread profile, enabling attachment of a closure onto the container without significant interference.

[0014]

[0010] In one aspect, each longitudinal section of the multi-component fiber-based container includes respective trunk portions and the neck region, with the seam flanges along the vertical edges and / or base horizontal edges and threads on the neck region molded as a single piece.

[0015]

[0011] In one aspect, the diameter of the neck of the multi-component fiber-based container is the same as the container's diameter, is larger, or is smaller, depending on the type of container.

[0016]

[0012] In one aspect, the molded threads of the multi-component fiber-based container are designed without undercuts or with minor undercuts, and do not extend to the flange, in order for the molded part to be easily removed from the mold.

[0017]

[0013] In one aspect, the molded threads of the multi-component fiber-based container are helical, vertical, horizontal, or custom shape, corresponding to the closure type such as screw-on or snap-on.

[0018]

[0014] In one aspect, the longitudinal sections of the multi-component fiber-based container are bonded together by adhesive or thermal sealing methods at the seam flanges.

[0019]

[0015] In one aspect, the longitudinal sections of the multi-component fiber-based container are trimmed along the seam flanges and contoured on the flanges on neck region by cutting before or after bonding together.

[0020]

[0016] In one aspect, the longitudinal sections of the multi-component fiber-based container are bonded together to form a neck, mouth, and either an integrated base or an opening to which a separate base is attached by adhesive or thermal sealing methods.

[0021]

[0017] In one aspect, the flanges on the neck of the multi-component fiber-based container are contoured by the application of the closure.

[0022]

[0018] In one aspect, the flanges on the neck of the multi-component fiber-based container are not contoured to the thread profile.

[0023]

[0019] In one aspect, the multi-component fiber-based container is provided with a rigid or semi-rigid neck insert for sealing, strengthening or both on the neck region.

[0024]

[0020] In one aspect, the neck insert of the multi-component fiber-based container covers only the top surface for a top seal or extends over the thread geometry on the inner surface for plug sealing.

[0025]

[0021] In one aspect, the neck insert of the multi-component fiber-based container has structural features to cup around the outer surface to help strengthen the bond at the top of the neck.

[0026]

[0022] In one aspect, the neck insert of the multi-component fiber-based container is attached to the neck by adhesive, thermal sealing methods or mechanical anchoring geometry without adhesives or combination thereof.

[0027]

[0023] In one aspect, the neck insert of the multi-component fiber-based container is made of a rigid material to impart strength to the fiber-molded neck region, wherein the rigid material includes plastic or bio-plastic material.

[0028]

[0024] In one aspect, the neck insert of the multi-component fiber-based container is made of PHA.

[0029]

[0025] In one aspect, the multi-component fiber-based container is provided with the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating on the external and internal side of the neck region for one or more of improved structural strength of the neck and threads, improved smoothness on the thread surface and coefficient of friction for closure thread engagement and improved sealing. In one aspect, the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating is made of plastic or bio-plastic laminate. In one aspect, the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating (8) is made of PHA laminate. In one aspect, the fiber molded parts are formed by wet fiber molding or dry forming methods.

[0030]

[0026] In one aspect, the multi-component fiber-based container is provided with the barrier method. In one aspect, the barrier method includes, but is not limited to, a liner lamination, a coating, or an inner flexible bag.

[0031]

[0027] In one aspect, the multi-component fiber-based container is threaded or snap-on.

[0032]

[0028] In one aspect, the multi-component fiber-based container is a foil or film bonded to the neck insert.

[0033]

[0029] The present technology relates to a container comprising a fiber-molded body and a closure. The fiber-molded body is integrated with a threaded, snap-on, or featureless neck and seam flanges along the vertical edges where the seam flanges in the neck region are contoured to match the neck thread or snap-on profile.

[0030] The fiber-molded body is molded as two or more longitudinal sections. Each longitudinal section includes the vertical trunk body and a neck region with molded threads or snap beads as a single part. The vertical edges of the body parts are provided with seam flanges. The neck diameter may be the same as the container's diameter or smaller, depending on the container type. The fiber-molded body is closed at the other end either by an integrated base on the ends of the longitudinal sections or as a separate molded piece bonded to this edge. When the longitudinal sections are bonded together they form a neck, mouth, and either an integrated base or an opening to which a separate base is attached. The bonding surface on the seam flanges and other bonding sites are appropriately sized and may have surface features to provide a larger surface area of contact between parts to be attached together, which in turn increases the bonding strength. The longitudinal sections are bonded together by means of adhesive, or by thermal sealing at the seam flanges to securely join them. The longitudinal sections of the fiber-molded body are formed by wet fiber molding or dry forming process.

[0031] The neck is formed integrated with the fiber-molded body longitudinal sections, incorporating the thread profile. The molded threads are designed without or with minimal undercuts and do not extend to the flange, allowing the molded part to be removed from the mold and for sufficient surface area in the flanges for bonding. The molded threads can be helical, vertical, or horizontal, depending on the closure type, such as screw-on or snap-fit.

[0034]

[0032] Both the body parts and the base piece, if necessary, are formed by a wet fiber molding or dry forming process. The wet process of fiber molding involves key steps starting with mixing the raw materials like softwood, hardwood, sugarcane bagasse, and bamboo with water in a fiber pool where a pulping machine processes them into a uniform fiber slurry. The pH value and concentration of this mixture are carefully controlled, and any dyeing is also performed at this stage. Next, this fiber is transferred to forming molds using a slurry suction system, which shapes the slurry into a wet molded base. At this point, the product lacks hardness and contains significant moisture. The subsequent thermoforming stage involves heating and optional pressure to evaporate about 98% of the water, endowing the product with improved toughness, hardness, and strength. After thermoforming, the product undergoes trimming to refine its edges for a more precise finish. The process's advantages include the versatility of the molding process, allowing for a wide range of packaging shapes and textures like curved surfaces and raised or recessed patterns. It facilitates automation in production and provides products with a distinctive, high-end appeal. This method allows for molding varied thickness across different parts of the container, enhancing both strength and functionality.

[0035]

[0033] Alternatively, the container components can be manufactured by any industrially well-known dry forming process. This process utilizes cellulose fibers and additives to shape the product. It typically begins with dry cellulose fibers, which are either deposited directly into a pre-heated forming mold or first formed into a sheet. The mold, consisting of at least two openable and closable negative parts, applies simultaneous pressure and heat to compress and shape the cellulose material into the desired container form. This may involve multiple pressing steps, progressing from a rough shape to a more refined one. Additives such as binders can be incorporated with the dry fibers to aid in forming and improving the final product's properties. The mold design is crucial, with forming surfaces engineered to create specific shapes and features. Some molds include integrated cutting devices to trim excess material and finalize the container's shape in the same pressing motion. This efficient method allows for the production of precisely shaped containers through the application of heat and pressure to dry cellulose fibers, without the need for additional liquid or forming agents.

[0036]

[0034] In the process of manufacturing by any process, cutting devices are used to trim excess material, precisely cut the seam flange and contour the flanges on the neck region according to the profile of the thread. This trimming process can be done either prior to or after the bonding process.

[0037]

[0035] An optional separate rigid or semi-rigid neck insert is provided for sealing and strengthening the neck region of the multi-component fiber-based container. This insert can be designed to cover only the top surface for a top seal or extend inside the neck above or below the thread geometry on the inner surface for plug sealing. The neck insert may incorporate structural features that cup around the outer surface, helping to strengthen the bond at the top of the neck, or small triangular features that help fill the gap between the flanges. The attachment of the insert to the neck can be achieved through various methods, including adhesive, thermal sealing, mechanical anchoring geometry without adhesives, or a combination of these techniques. The insert is constructed from rigid or semi-rigid materials, such as plastic or bio-plastic like PHA, to impart strength to the fiber- molded neck region. The insert mass is maintained low to improve recyclability by reducing non-fiber content in the container.

[0038]

[0036] The neck region optionally features a shrink sleeve, thin outer covering, or coating, on the external and internal surfaces of the neck region for one or more of the purposes of improved structural strength of the neck and threads, improved smoothness on the thread surface and coefficient of friction for closure thread engagement and improved sealing. This additional layer can be made from various materials, including laminates or coatings of plastic or bio-plastic. To facilitate easier recycling, the same material as that used for the neck insert is preferably utilized for this covering, reducing the diversity of non-fiber-based materials in the container. Among bio-plastics, PHA is considered the preferable choice for both the insert and outer covering, offering a balance between functionality and environmental considerations.

[0039]

[0037] The multi-component fiber-based container incorporates a barrier to enhance its functionality, which includes either a liner lamination, an inner flexible bag, coating, surface treatment, or fiber additive. The liner lamination involves applying a film to the inside surfaces of the fiber molded parts, creating a seamless barrier layer. Alternatively, a flexible inner bag can serve as the barrier mechanism, attached to either the neck or the neck insert of the container. While these barrier components can be made from various materials such as polymers including polyethylene or polypropylene, they are preferably manufactured using the same material as the neck insert or shrink sleeve to improve recyclability. Among the material options, biopolymers including PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) are the preferred choice for both the barrier method and other components, offering a balance of barrier properties and environmental considerations. This approach ensures that the fiber-based container can effectively protect its contents while maintaining consistency in materials, thus enhancing the overall recyclability of the product.

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041]

[0038] The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of the embodiments and should not be viewed as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to those skilled in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0042]

[0039] FIG. 1 A depicts an embodiment of the multi-component container in bottle form, highlighting its key components.

[0043]

[0040] FIG. 1 B depicts an embodiment of the multi-component container in jar form, highlighting its key components.

[0044]

[0041] FIGs. 2A-2F depict an embodiment illustrating the body, showcasing parts such as the seam flanges on vertical edges, contoured flange in the neck region, and the threads on the neck region. FIG. 2A - Cross-sectional view of one longitudinal section 1a, showcasing seam flanges (1 a1 ) on the vertical edges, the contoured flanges (1a2) in the neck region (2a), and the threads (2a1 ). FIG. 2B - detailed cross-sectional view of the neck region (2a), showcasing seam flanges (1 a1 ) on the vertical edges, the contoured flanges (1 a2), and the threads (2a1 ). FIG. 2C - front elevation view of the neck region (2a). FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E - different thread designs for various closure types. FIG. 2F - An embodiment of the multicomponent container in bottle form, showcasing seam flanges on the horizontal edges (1 a3).

[0045]

[0042] FIGs. 3A-3B depict an embodiment illustrating the neck insert and shrink sleeve in the neck region (2a). FIG. 3A - Frontal view of the neck region 2a, showcasing a neck insert of one embodiment that covers only the top edge of the neck. FIG. 3B - Cross-sectional view of the neck region 2a, showcasing a neck insert of one embodiment that extends below the threads, covering the entire neck region.

[0046]

[0043] FIGs. 4A-4C depict an embodiment illustrating a fully assembled bottle with all the essential parts disclosed in the invention. FIG. 4A - Cross-sectional view of the fully assembled bottle. FIG. 4B - Frontal view of the fully assembled neck region of the bottle. FIG. 4C - Frontal view of the fully assembled bottle.

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0048]

[0044] Other objects and advantages of the present technology will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment. The multi-component fiber-based container described is a bottle with two longitudinal sections. Figures 1 to 4C illustrate the inventive features of this multi-component bottle.

[0049]

[0045] The key components of the multi-component container according to the invention will be explained in detail with respect to Figures 1-4c. While aspects of the described multi-component container can be implemented with any number of additional components, such as gaskets and other functional or ornamental fitments like infusing elements, the embodiment is described in the context of the following exemplary components.

[0046] Accordingly, the description in the following sections has been provided in the context of a multi-component bottle design. It should be appreciated that this example has been provided for ease of understanding and is not to be construed as a limitation in any way.

[0050]

[0047] The FIG. 1A provides an exploded view of the multi-component container in bottle form, showcasing its key components as detailed in this technology. This bottle comprises a fiber-molded body (1 ) with two distinct longitudinal sections (1 a, 1 b), each with respective neck regions (2a, 2b) featuring threads, seam flanges (1a1 , 1 b1 ), and contoured flanges in the neck region. The bottle also includes a bottle base (3), a neck insert, and a closure (9).

[0051]

[0048] The fiber-molded body (1 ) is formed by attaching two longitudinal sections (1a, 1 b), each molded with an integrated neck region (2a, 2b) on the upper edge and seam flanges (1 a1 , 1 b1 ) on the vertical edges. The neck regions (2a, 2b) feature molded fiber threads (2a1 , 2b1 ), and the seam flanges in the neck region are contoured (1a2, 1 b2) to match the thread profile. The sections comprise a shoulder and a trunk region. When these two longitudinal sections (1 a, 1 b) are attached together, they form a mouth (4) on the upper edge and a lower opening (5). The bonding surface on the seam flanges (1a1 , 1 b1 ) and other bonding sites is appropriately sized and may have surface features to provide a larger surface area of contact between the two longitudinal sections (1 a, 1 b), which increases the bonding strength. These sections are bonded together by means of adhesive or by thermal sealing at the seam flanges (1 a1 , 1 b1 ). The thermal sealing method alone or in combination with adhesive is used if lamination on the inner surfaces is used as the barrier method. In this two-section bottle design, the longitudinal sections (1 a, 1 b) and / or horizontal sections (1 a3) of the fiber-molded body (1 ) are formed by either a wet fiber molding process or a dry forming process.

[0052]

[0049] The FIGs. 2A-2F depict an embodiment illustrating the fiber-molded body, showcasing key parts of the multi-component bottle design. FIG. 2A provides a cross-sectional view of one longitudinal section (1 a), highlighting the seam flanges (1 a1 ) on the vertical edges, the contoured flanges (1 a2) in the neck region (2a), and the threads (2a1 ). FIG. 2B offers a detailed cross-sectional view of the neck region (2a), clearly displaying the portion of seam flanges (1 a1 ) on the vertical edges, the contoured flanges (1 a2), and the threads (2a1 ). FIG. 2C presents a front elevation view of the neck region (2a). In the manufacturing process, regardless of the method used, cutting devices are employed to trim excess material and precisely cut the seam flange. The flanges in the neck region are contoured according to the profile of the thread. This contouring process can be performed either before or after the bonding process, offering flexibility in the manufacturing sequence.

[0053]

[0050] FIGs. 3A-3B depict embodiments illustrating the neck insert (6) in the neck region (2a) of the multi-component fiber-based container. FIG. 3A presents a front elevation view of the neck region (2a), showcasing a neck insert (6) design that covers only the top edge of the neck for a top seal. FIG. 3B provides a cross- sectional view of the neck region (2a), illustrating an alternative neck insert (6) design that extends below the threads, covering the entire neck region for plug sealing. These separate rigid neck inserts (6) serve to seal and strengthen the neck region. Structural features that cup around the outer surface may be incorporated into the rigid neck insert (6), enhancing the bond strength at the top of the neck. Various attachment methods can be employed, including adhesive, thermal sealing, mechanical anchoring geometry without adhesives, or a combination of these techniques. The insert (6) is constructed from rigid materials, such as plastic or bioplastic like PHA, to impart strength to the fiber-molded neck region. To improve recyclability, the insert (6) mass is kept low, reducing non-fiber content in the container.

[0054]

[0051] FIGs. 3A-3B also illustrate the application of a shrink sleeve (8) or thin outer covering in the neck region (2a). While not explicitly shown in FIG. 3A or 3B, this additional layer (8) provides a smooth thread surface and further strengthens both the neck and threads. The shrink sleeve (8) can be made from various materials, including laminates of plastic or bio-plastic. To facilitate easier recycling, the same material as that used for the neck insert (6) is preferably utilized for this shrink sleeve (8), reducing the diversity of non-fiber-based materials in the container. Among bioplastics, PHA is considered the preferable choice for both the insert (6) and shrink sleeve (8), offering a balance between functionality and environmental considerations. The shrink sleeve (8) can be applied using various well-known industrial methods. For example, one common method involves sliding a pre-formed sleeve over the bottle neck and then applying heat to shrink it tightly around the contours of the neck and threads. This heat shrinking process ensures a snug fit and smooth surface. The shrink sleeve (8), working in conjunction with the neck insert (6), enhances the overall structural integrity and performance of the neck region in this multi-component bottle design.

[0055]

[0052] FIGs. 4A-4C series provides a comprehensive view of the fully assembled multi-component bottle, showcasing all the essential parts disclosed in this invention. FIG. 4A presents a cross-sectional view of the fully assembled bottle, allowing for a detailed examination of the internal structure and the integration of various components. This view illustrates one longitudinal section (1 a) of the bottle, providing insight into the internal structure. It shows a neck insert (6) that covers only the top edge of the neck. FIG. 4B offers a front elevation view of the fully assembled neck region, highlighting the external appearance of the neck area. This view demonstrates an alternative design where the neck insert (6) extends to cover the entire neck, including the threads. FIG 4c provides a front elevation view of the entire assembled bottle, giving a comprehensive external perspective of the finished product.

[0056]

[0053] FIG. 1 B provides an exploded view of another embodiment of the multicomponent container in jar form, showcasing its key components. This jar comprises a fiber-molded body (1 ) with two longitudinal sections (1a, 1 b), each with respective neck regions (2a, 2b) featuring threads, seam flanges (1 a1 , 1 b1 ), contoured flanges in the neck region, and integrated base (3a, 3b). The neck diameter is the same as or larger than the container diameter. The jar also includes a closure (9) and may incorporate one or more features such as a neck insert, shrink sleeve, thin layer, or coating in the neck region. With the exception of the neck diameter, all other structural elements, manufacturing processes, and optional features described in the bottle embodiment are applicable to this jar embodiment, adapted as necessary for the jar configuration.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A multi-component fiber-based container, comprising: a fiber-molded body with two or more longitudinal sections having an integrated neck region on one end which are attached together to form a complete body; and a closure; wherein the longitudinal sections of the body have seam flanges along their respective vertical edges and / or along the edge opposite the neck as a means for bonding; wherein the neck region has threads on its external surface; and wherein the seam flanges on the neck region are contoured to match the thread profile, enabling attachment of a closure onto the container without significant interference.

2. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein each longitudinal section includes respective trunk portions and the neck region, with the seam flanges along the vertical edges and / or base horizontal edges and threads on the neck region molded as a single piece3. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the diameter of the neck is the same as the container's diameter, is larger, or is smaller, depending on the type of container.

4. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the molded threads are designed without undercuts or with minor undercuts, and do not extend to the flange, in order for the molded part to be easily removed from the mold.

5. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the molded threads are helical, vertical, horizontal, or custom shape, corresponding to the closure type such as screw-on or snap-on.

6. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal sections are bonded together by adhesive or thermal sealing methods at the seam flanges.

7. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal sections are trimmed along the seam flanges and contoured on the flanges on neck region by cutting before or after bonding together.

8. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal sections are bonded together to form a neck, mouth, and either an integrated base or an opening to which a separate base is attached by adhesive or thermal sealing methods.

9. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the flanges on the neck are contoured by the application of the closure.

10. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the flanges on the neck are not contoured to the thread profile.

11. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the container is provided with a rigid or semi-rigid neck insert for sealing, strengthening or both on the neck region.

12. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 11 , wherein the neck insert covers only the top surface for a top seal or extends over the thread geometry on the inner surface for plug sealing.

13. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 11 , wherein the neck insert has structural features to cup around the outer surface to help strengthen the bond at the top of the neck.

14. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 11 , wherein the neck insert is attached to the neck by adhesive, thermal sealing methods or mechanical anchoring geometry without adhesives or combination thereof.

15. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 11 , wherein the neck insert is made of a rigid material to impart strength to the fiber-molded neck region, wherein the rigid material includes plastic or bio-plastic material.

16. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 15, wherein the neck insert is made of PHA.

17. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the container is provided with the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating on the external and internal side of the neck region for one or more of improved structural strength of the neck and threads, improved smoothness on the thread surface and coefficient of friction for closure thread engagement and improved sealing.

18. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 17, wherein the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating is made of plastic or bio-plastic laminate.

19. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 18, wherein the shrink sleeve, thin outer covering or coating (8) is made of PHA laminate.

20. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the fiber molded parts are formed by wet fiber molding or dry forming methods.

21. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the container is provided with the barrier method.

22. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 21 , wherein the barrier method includes, but is not limited to, a liner lamination, a coating, or an inner flexible bag.

23. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the closure is threaded or snap-on.

24. The multi-component fiber-based container according to claim 1 , wherein the closure is a foil or film bonded to the neck insert.

Images