Induction sealable structure

Abstract

Various forms of sealing members are described along with the laminates from which the sealing members are formed. In some forms, the sealing members may generally be formed from materials that do not include any metal foils, such as would traditionally be included in induction heated seals. Instead, the sealing members may include metallized films that are suitable for induction sealing.

Description

INDUCTION SEALABLE STRUCTURE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Number 63 / 700,894, filed September 30, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to sealing members for sealing the mouth of a container, and more particularly, to sealing members that are free from metal foil. BACKGROUND

[0003] It is often desirable to seal the opening of a container using a removable or peelable seal, sealing member, or inner seal. Often a cap or other closure is then screwed or placed over the container opening capturing the sealing member therein. In use, a consumer typically removes the cap or other closure to gain access to the sealing member and then removes or otherwise peels the seal from the container in order to dispense or gain access to its contents.

[0004] Initial attempts at sealing a container opening utilized an induction- or conduction-type inner seal covering the container’s opening where the seal generally conformed to the shape of the opening such that a circular container opening was sealed with a round disk approximately the same size as the opening. These prior seals commonly had a lower heat activated sealing layer to secure a periphery of the seal to a rim or other upper surface surrounding the container’s opening. Upon exposing the seal to heat, the lower layer bonded to the container’s rim. In many cases, these seals included a foil layer capable of forming induction heat to activate the lower heat seal layer.

[0005] Induction heated seals require an induction material, such as a metal foil. Moreover, induction seals typically require 12 to 30 microns of aluminum to generate sufficient heat to induction seal. Such metal foils complicate recycling efforts as the metal foil would need to be separated from the sealing member. Further, in some instances, a portion of the metal foil may remain on the container, thereby complicating recycling the container itself. - 1 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0006] In this regard, these sealing members and the containers may be problematic, such as in Germany according to the “Duales System.” The components would be considered composite materials, containing both plastics and metal foil. Such materials cannot be processed as a “mixed plastic film” such as by wind sifting according to the Duales System. Other countries are considering similar recycling systems and requirements such that the overall components used in a sealing member must be considered.

[0007] Therefore, it may be desirable to provide induction heated sealing members that are more suited for recycling according to different recycling systems and programs. SUMMARY

[0008] Various forms of sealing members are described along with the laminates from which the sealing members are formed. In some forms, the sealing members may generally be formed from materials that may be processed using a single recycling stream. In one form, the seals do not include any metal foils, such as would traditionally be included in induction heated seals. Instead, the seals may include metallized films to provide induction heating properties, but not so much metal that would prevent the seals and containers from being recycled.

[0009] According to one form, an induction sealing member for sealing to a rim surrounding a container opening is provided. The sealing member includes a lower heat seal layer, a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces. The metallized coating is configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process. The sealing member can also include at least one additional layer selected from a film layer, a foam layer, and a combination film and foam layer. The induction sealing member is free of metal foil.

[0010] In accordance with one form, an induction sealing member for sealing to a rim surrounding a container opening is provided. The sealing member includes a lower heat seal layer, a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces. The metallized coating has an optical density of about 1.5 to about 3.5 and is configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process. In some forms, the optical density is about 2.0 to about 3.0. The sealing member also includes at least one additional film layer. The induction sealing member is mono-material with each of the layers, with the exception of the heat seal layer and metallized coating, comprising the same type of material. The induction sealing layer is - 2 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993free of metal foil. It should be appreciated that in some forms, the heat seal layer can also be mono-material.

[0011] In one form, a laminate web for forming an induction sealing member is provided. The laminate web includes a lower heat seal layer, a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces. The metallized coating is configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process. The laminate web can also include at least one additional layer selected from a film layer, a foam layer, and a combination film and foam layer. The laminate web is free of metal foil and is formed into a roll.

[0012] According to one form, the metallized coating is positioned on both the top and bottom surfaces of the support layer.

[0013] In accordance with one form, the metallized coating has an optical density of about 2.5 to about 3.0.

[0014] In one form, the metallized coating has a thickness of about 30 nm to about 60 nm.

[0015] According to one form, the metallized coating is an aluminum coating.

[0016] In accordance with one form, the support layer is a film having a thickness of about 12 microns to about 60 microns.

[0017] In one form, the support layer is a film comprising polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyethylene, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially oriented polypropylene, cellulose, polyamide, polylactic acid, other biopolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0018] According to one form, the sealing member is a mono-material such that the induction sealing member contains at least about 95 wt.% of the same type of material. This may or may not include the heat seal.

[0019] In accordance with one form, the sealing member contains less than about 0.1 wt.% metal.

[0020] In one form, the sealing member further includes a foam layer.

[0021] According to one form, the sealing member further includes an upper portion secured to the at least one additional film layer. The upper portion comprising an absorbent - 3 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993liner and an adhesive, wherein the absorbent liner absorbs at least a portion of the adhesive to at least partially absorb a portion of the adhesive during an induction heating process.

[0022] In one form, at least an upper portion is partially bonded to a lower portion to define a gripping tab, the gripping tab configured for removing the sealing member from the rim.

[0023] These and other aspects may be understood more readily from the following description and the appended drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG.1 is a cross-sectional view of one form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0025] FIG.2 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0026] FIG.3 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a tabbed sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0027] FIG.4 is a cross-sectional view of one form of a sealing member having a two-piece construction;

[0028] FIG.5 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0029] FIG.6 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0030] FIG.7 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer;

[0031] FIG.8 is a cross-sectional view of another form of a sealing member that does not include a metal foil layer; and

[0032] FIGS.9-50 include side views of various exemplary sealing members. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the subject matter sought to be protected, there are illustrated in the accompanying drawings embodiments thereof, from - 4 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the subject matter sought to be protected, its construction and operation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.

[0034] An induction heatable sealing member for a container is described herein. Generally, the sealing member is free from metal foil, such as aluminum foil, that would typically be used to induction seal to a container. Instead, many of the forms described herein include metallized films that are configured to respond to an induction heating / sealing process to provide heat to other layers in the sealing member.

[0035] It should be appreciated that the induction sealing members provided herein should be considered as not including metal foils, but contain metal, such as aluminum, in the form of one or more coatings on other layers in the sealing member. In this regard, when referring to being free of metal foils, it is meant that the sealing members do not include metal layers or coatings having a thickness of 5 microns or greater. Instead, the metal coatings have a thickness of less than about 0.1 microns such that the sealing members would still be considered as being free of metal foils. In this regard, even with the metal coatings and / or metallized films, the induction sealing member is still suitable for recycling as it does not contain too large of an amount of metal relative to the other components of the sealing member. Further, the sealing members have less than about 0.15 wt.% metal and in some forms, less than about 0.10 wt.% metal. Overall, the metal content should not affect the recyclability of the sealing member.

[0036] In some forms, an induction sealing member can be provided which is either fully recyclable or compostable by the removal of the aluminum foil component of the sealing member and replacing it with a metallized film. Previously it was not possible to induction heat metallized films used in sealing member configurations. However, it has been surprisingly discovered that suitable induction sealing can be achieved using specific material combinations and induction equipment.

[0037] For simplicity, this disclosure generally may refer to a container or bottle, but the sealing members herein may be applied to any type of container, bottle, package or other apparatus having a rim or mouth surrounding an access opening to an internal cavity. In this disclosure, reference to upper and lower surfaces and layers of the components of the sealing member refers to an orientation of the components as generally depicted in figures and when the sealing member is in use with a container in an upright position and having - 5 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993an opening at the top of the container. Different approaches to the sealing member will first be generally described, and then more specifics of the various constructions and materials will be explained thereafter. It will be appreciated that the sealing members described herein, in some cases, function in both a one piece or two piece sealing member configuration. A one-piece sealing member generally includes just the sealing member bonded to a container rim. A cap or closure may be also used therewith. However, the sealing member may also be used in a capless configuration. A two-piece sealing member includes the sealing member temporarily bonded to a liner. In this construction, the sealing member is bonded to a container’s rim, and the liner is configured to separate from the sealing member during heating to be retained in a cap or other closure used on the container. Alternatively, the bond between the liner and the sealing member may be frangible such that it separates when the lid is removed from the container by a user. In a two-piece construction, a wax layer, for example, may be used to temporarily bond the sealing member to a liner whereby the liner at least partially absorbs the wax layer and, in some cases, fully absorbs the wax layer. The liner may include an absorbent component, such as paper, cellulose, and the like. Other types of releasable layers may also be used to provide a temporary bond between the seal and liner.

[0038] One form of a foil free induction sealing member is shown in FIG.1. More specifically, FIG.1 is a cross-section of sealing member 20 which does not include any metal foil, but instead includes one or more metallized layers. The sealing member 20 includes a lower heat seal layer 22 and a support layer 24 having a top surface 26 and a bottom surface 28. The support layer 24 may include a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces.

[0039] The sealing member 20 also includes at least one additional layer 30. The additional layer 30 can take a variety of forms including, but not limited to a film layer, a foam layer, and a combination film and foam layer. The support layer 24 is shown in FIG.1 as positioned adjacent the heat seal layer 22. However, it should be appreciated that the support layer 24 may be positioned such that one or more other layers, such as additional layer 30 is positioned between the heat seal layer 22 and the support layer 24.

[0040] FIG.2 illustrates a further sealing member 120 having many similar features as described above with respect to sealing member 20. However, sealing member 120 includes a further additional layer 32 beyond layer 30. Each of layers may independently be one of a film, foam, film and foam, or other layer. These layers can provide for a variety of different - 6 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993functionalities such as support, insulation, bonding between other adjacent layers, and the like. Further, it should be appreciated that support layer 24, having one or more metallized coatings may be positioned in various locations with respect to layers 30,32, such as below both, above both, and between the layers 30,32.

[0041] Turning to FIG.3, a tabbed form of a sealing member is shown. Sealing member 220 includes many similar features as described above. In a tabbed form, sealing member 220 includes at least one upper layer 34 and a tab layer 36 whereby the at least one upper layer 34 is partially bonded such as at arrow 38 to one or more layers below. As shown in FIG.3, upper layer 34 is partially bonded to layer 30 to form a tab as tab layer 36 is bonded to one of layer 30 and upper layer 34. It should be appreciated that upper layer 34 may take the form of multiple layers such that it could be considered as a laminate of multiple layers. Further, it should be appreciated that while shown as having three layers in the lower portion, additional layers can be included in the lower portion, such as shown in FIG.2. Further, the location of the support layer 24 with at least one metallized coating may also be modified and could be positioned in the upper portion, partially bonded to the lower portion, forming the tab.

[0042] A two-piece configuration is shown in FIG.4. In this form, two-piece sealing member 320 is shown having a lining portion 322 and a sealing member portion 324. The lining portion 322 includes a liner 326 and an adhesive 328. The adhesive 328 can be used to temporarily secure the lining portion 322 to the sealing member portion 324. In one form, the adhesive 328 can be a temporary adhesive that releases and / or ruptures. For example, the adhesive 328 can be a wax that is absorbed into the liner 328 during the induction heating process as known in conventional two-piece liner and sealing member configurations. The sealing member portion 324 includes any of the configurations discussed above with respect to FIGS.1-3. As shown in FIG.4, the sealing member portion 324 includes the heat seal layer 22, support layer 24, and layer 30.

[0043] In the two piece seal and liner combination, an upper surface of the sealing member is temporarily adhered to a lower surface of the liner by a release layer, which is often a heat-activated release layer, such as an intervening wax layer. During heating to bond the sealing member to the container, heat not only activates the lower heat seal layer, but also travels upwardly through the seal to melt the intervening wax across the entire surface of the sealing member to separate the liner from the sealing member. Often, the - 7 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993melted wax is absorbed by the liner in order to permit easy liner separation from the sealing member. Polyolefin laminate may be used instead of wax and an absorbent layer.

[0044] The lower heat seal layer 22 may take a variety of forms. In some forms, the heat seal layer 22 extends across the entire lower surface of the sealing members. In other forms, the heat seal layer may be applied such that it is positioned in registration the upper rim of a container when applied thereto. In this form, the amount of material is minimized while focusing the heat seal at the locations where the sealing member adheres to the container. In this way, lower induction heating may be required.

[0045] The heat seal layer 22 may be a polyolefin film, extrudate, lacquer, or the like, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, polyethylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, metallocene, polybutylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers, surlyn, ethylene maleic anhydride, and the like. In some forms, the sealant layer may comprise polyester materials. For example, the sealant layer may include a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, such as a modified polyester heat seal lacquer, a PET heatseal film, and the like. The material may be a co polyester resin.

[0046] In some forms, the heat seal layer 22 may be modified such that it is suitable for use with certain types of materials. For example, when used with polyester containers, such as PET, the sealant may comprise polyester, such as modified polyester, amorphous modified polyester, and the like. In other forms, the sealant layer may be used with polyolefin containers, such as polypropylene and / or polyethylene. In these forms, it may be more suitable that the sealant layer contains polypropylene and / or polyethylene to form a desirable bond.

[0047] In one form, the heat seal layer 22 may have a relatively lower melting point, such as below about 110°C, below about 90°C, below about 80°C. In some forms, the heat seal activation temperature is between about 60°C to 80°C. The heat seal layer 22 may also have a relative low density such as about 0.9 g / cm3to about 1.4 g / cm3. In some forms, the heat seal layer may have a thickness of about 1μm to about 100μm. In some forms, the sealant layer may be peelable (soft and / or hard). The sealant layer may also be forgiving and suitable for use with an oversealing device.

[0048] Further, the heat seal layer 22 may be especially suited to lower temperature induction sealing since the sealing member does not include a foil layer, but instead uses a - 8 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993metallized film. By one approach, the heat seal layer may be a single layer or a multi-layer structure of such materials about 2 microns to 50 microns thick.

[0049] The support layer 24 may take a variety of different forms and comprise a variety of different materials. For example, the support layer may be polyolefin film, such as polypropylene, oriented propylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, cast polypropylene, polypropylene homopolymers, polypropylene copolymers, polyethylene, HDPE, LLDPE, MDPE, LDPE, metallocene, polybutylene combinations thereof, and the like. The support layer 24 may also be a polyester, such as PET. The support layer 24 may also be a cellulose film. The support layer can have a thickness of from about 4 microns to about 100 microns and more particularly from about 10 microns to about 60 microns.

[0050] The support layer 24 includes at least one side that includes a metallized coating. In some forms, the support layer 24 includes both sides that have metallized coatings. In some forms, both sides include the same metallized coatings whereas in other forms, the sides may include different metallized coatings.

[0051] The metallized coating may have an optical density of about 1.5 to about 3.5. According to some forms, the metallized coating has an optical density of about 2.5 to about 3.0. The support layer may include both sides having optical coatings with optical densities of about 1.5 to about 3.5. In some forms, the overall optical density, including coatings on one or both sides, has a resulting optical density of about 1.5 to about 3.5.

[0052] The metallized coating may have a thickness of about 20 nm to about 200 nm. In other forms, the metallized coating may have a thickness of about 35 nm to about 100 nm and in other forms about 50 nm to about 80 nm. In general, the metallized coating has a thickness of less than about 100 nm so as to keep the total metal content low in the sealing member. In this form, the metallized coating would be on the order of 1000 times less metal than a traditional metal foil. It should be appreciated that the metallized coating may have some variation across the sealing member. In some forms, when a support layer includes metallized coating on both sides, the amount may be in a range of about 0.10-0.40 g / m2. In some forms, a single metallized coating may be in a range of about 0.03-0.30 g / m2.

[0053] The metallized coating may be an aluminum coating. However, other metallized coatings may also be used if they are responsive to induction heating processes.

[0054] Additional layers may also be included, such as noted above, and as described below. The additional layers may take a variety of forms and perform a variety of different - 9 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993functions. The additional layers may be film, foam, cellulose based, and the like. In some forms, at least one of the additional layers may function as a support layer to provide structural stability. Further, the additional layers may function to provide insulation properties. In some forms, at least one of the additional layers may function as an adhesive layer between one or more layers. In some forms, the additional layers may provide barrier properties, such as oxygen transmission and water vapor transmission properties. For example, the layers may provide for less than 1 cm3 / m2oxygen transmission at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. The additional layers may provide for water vapor transmission of less than 1 g / m2at 38°C and 90% relative humidity.

[0055] A variety of different materials can be used in the additional layers. For instance, an additional layer may include polyolefin film, such as polypropylene, oriented propylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, cast polypropylene, polypropylene homopolymers, polypropylene copolymers, polyethylene, HDPE, LLDPE, MDPE, LDPE, metallocene, polybutylene, biopolymers, combinations thereof, and the like. In some forms, the material may be in the form as a monofilm or a coextruded film.

[0056] Additional layers may also take other forms, such as comprising polyester, nylon, and the like. For example, the additional layers may comprise polyester terephthalate (PET). These materials can include plain PET films, PET coextruded films, heat sealable PET films, amorphous PET films, PET films having varying crystallinity, PET coated with SiOx, PET coated with AlOx, and the like. For instance, PET films having up to about 50% crystallinity may be used in some forms. In some forms, when provided in the lower laminate portion, the upper of the polymer layers may provide support and / or heat insulation while the lower polymer layer may provide compressibility and flexibility and a substrate for the sealant coating.

[0057] The additional layers may also be transparent. In this form, the transparent polymer layer may permit other portions of the sealing member to be seen, such as when printing or other features are included.

[0058] In some forms, the seals may include an insulation layer or a heat-redistribution layer. In one form, the insulation layer may be a foamed polymer layer. Suitable foamed polymers include foamed polyolefin, foamed polypropylene, foamed polyethylene, polyester foams, amorphous polyesters, and the like. In some forms, these foams generally have an internal rupture strength of about 2000 to about 3500 g / in. In some approaches, the - 10 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993foamed polymer layer 106 may also have a density less than 0.6 g / cc and, in some cases, about 0.4 to less than about 0.6 g / cc. In other approaches, the density may be from about 0.4 g / cc to about 0.9 g / cc. The foamed polymer layer may be about 25 to about 250 microns thick.

[0059] In other approaches, a non foam heat distributing or heat redistributing layer may be included. In such approach, the non foam heat distributing film layer includes a non-foam PET film, a blend of polyolefin materials, such as a blend of one or more high density polyolefin components combined with one or more lower density polyolefin components, and the like. Suitable polymers include but are not limited to, polyeseters such as PET, polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymers, blends thereof as well as copolymers or blends with higher alpha-olefins. By one approach, the non foam heat distributing polyolefin film layer is a blend of about 50 to about 70 percent of one or more high density polyolefin materials with the remainder being one or more lower density polyolefin materials. The blend is selected to achieve effective densities to provide heat for both heat sealing functionality to the container as well as separation of the liner from the seal in one piece.

[0060] The tab layer 36 may also take a variety of different forms and provide different properties, as desired. In one form, the tab layer can be a print layer. In general, the print layer can be applied to another layer, such as in the form of printing. Printing inks may be used including, but not limited to, nitrocellulose, PVD (physical vapor deposition) pigments, acrylic, polyurethane, polyvinyl butyral, (PVB) and the like. In some forms, the print layer is applied to one of the additional layers. In other forms, the print layer may be applied to a different layer, such as a polymer layer, which is then combined with one or more of the additional layers.

[0061] The tab may also include a release layer that can generally be included to permit the tab to separate from an adjacent layer by a user. The release layer can take a variety of forms such as films, coatings, and the like. In one form, the release layer can be a silicon coating. According to one form, the release layer can be a lacquer layer. The release layer may also include polyamide coatings, nitrocellulose / polyamide blends, polyurethane resin coatings, acrylic resins, and the like. In some forms, the release layer is a physical separation as opposed to an anti-sticking layer, such as with silicon. In this regard, a physical non-melting layer may be suitable as a release layer. - 11 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0062] In some forms, it should be understood that many and / or all of the layers in the sealing members comprise a common form of material. For example, the layers may generally comprise polyolefins. In some forms the layers may generally comprise polyesters, such as PET. According to some forms, many of the layers may comprise cellulose. In some forms, the layers, with the exception of the sealant layer, may comprise a common form of material. For instance, the polymer layers of the sealing member may comprise polyesters, such as PET while the sealing member may comprise polyolefin, such as polypropylene and / or polyethylene. In this form, a majority of the sealing member may be considered as a mono-material, from the same type of material, with the exception of the sealant layer. In some forms, the sealant or heat seal layer is from the same type of material such that it is also part of the mono-material.

[0063] Mono-material sealing members may be especially suitable for recycling purposes. Further, a mono-material system may be utilized with common polymer layers used for different types of seals where only the sealant layer is modified. One such example may include a polyester mono-material sealing member where each of the polymer layers comprise a form of PET. In the case where the mono-material system is used on PET containers, the sealant layer may also comprise PET. In the case where the mono-material system is used with polypropylene, the polymer layers would still comprise the same PET materials, but the sealant layer would comprise polypropylene instead of PET. This system may be useful where the same polymer layers are used for different types of seals, only having to modify the sealant layer, as needed. Other types of mono-material systems may be configured in a similar manner, such as polyolefin mono-material systems with varying sealant layers.

[0064] When used in mono-material sealing systems, the sealant layer may be applied in registration with the sealing member, as described above, to minimize the amount of any alien materials. For example, in a PET mono-material sealing system, a polypropylene sealant layer may be applied in registration, as described above, to minimize the amount of any non PET materials. This can increase the use as a recyclable stream.

[0065] It should be appreciated that various adhesives may be included in the layer described above for the various embodiments. For example, adhesives and / or adhesive layers may be provided between the various polymer layers, as needed. - 12 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0066] The sealing member can be formed in a variety of manners including, but not limited to, extrusion, lamination, heat lamination, and the like and can include heated rollers, separate adhesives, etc. The materials are typically formed into a laminate sheet that is later processed to form the sealing members. For example, the laminate sheet may be formed into web of material having a width that is then formed into a roll. The roll can later be unrolled and the sealing members may be cut from the roll along the width of the roll.

[0067] Further, portions of the sealing member may be preformed and joined to other portions of the sealing member. For example, polyurethane adhesive lamination may be used between one or more layers and may also include a strip of such material that is applied, such as on or adjacent the release lacquer. Similarly, partial application of polyurethane adhesive may be used between one or more layers. Other partial applications may also be used with other materials such as hot melt adhesives, low melt co polyesters, and the like.

[0068] The resulting laminate sheet of the sealing members can be cut into appropriate sized disks or other shapes as needed to form a vessel closing assembly or tabbed sealing member. The cut sealing member is inserted into a cap or other closure which, in turn, is applied to the neck of a container to be sealed. The screw cap can be screwed onto the open neck of the container, thus sandwiching the sealing member between the open neck of the container and the top of the cap. The sealing members are then induction heated to seal to the container. It should be appreciated that the sealing members may also be used in capless configurations.

[0069] In some forms, the sealing members described herein may be more suitable for recycling. For instance, the sealing members are free from metal foils that may otherwise contaminate or complicate the recycling process of the tabbed sealing member and / or container. In some traditional sealing members, at least a portion of the foil layer may remain on the container and / or with the seal when the seal is removed. The metal foil typically cannot be recycled with the polymer layers such that it must be removed or the overall material cannot be recycled. Further, in some forms, the sealing member may be made substantially from the same type of polymer material such that the seal can be recycled in a single process or otherwise easily separated into the component layers. For example, the layers can include polyolefins and similar materials that can be recycled. - 13 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0070] According to one form, the heat seal layer is a low density, low melting point material that does not require significant heat to adhere to a container. Such materials may include, but are not limited to, co extruded polypropylene and a random copolymer. Other layers in the tabbed sealing member may be relatively higher density and higher melting point such that they do not melt during the heating process for applying the sealing member to a container.

[0071] The tabbed sealing members described herein, in some forms, may be prepared such that they do not require a specific tab layer, such as a PET layer, as used in many traditional tabbed seals. This can lower costs and / or provide for thinner laminates.

[0072] It should be appreciated that layers described herein may be a combination of two or more materials, such as a co extrusion of multiple materials whereby a first material is an adhesive and a second material may provide extra support and / or strength.

[0073] In some forms, since the sealing member does not include an induction heating foil, the sealing member may or may not provide sufficient barrier properties. Such barrier properties include, but are not limited to, oxygen barrier, moisture barrier, and the like. However, in some forms it may be desirable to increase these properties without adding a metal foil layer. In such forms, barrier films and / or coatings may be used. Such materials include, but are not limited to SiOx, AlOx, EVOH, and combinations thereof.

[0074] As noted above, the sealing members herein are configured for induction sealing to the containers. Prior sealing members included a metal foil, such as aluminum foil for induction sealing. The sealing members herein, on the other hand, include a metallized layer that responds to the induction process to create heat for the lower heat seal layer. As the metallized layer contains significantly less metal than a traditional foil layer, the induction sealing process can be modified. For instance, the induction settings, such as pressure, heat, and time can be modified. It should be appreciated that the induction heating process requires less energy than typical induction heating for metal foil due to the lower total metal content.

[0075] Examples

[0076] Example 1 showing an exemplary form of a sealing member is shown in FIG.5. As shown in this form, sealing member 420 includes a heat seal layer 422 with metallized PET layer 424. The metallized PET layer 424 is 12 microns with metallized layers on an upper surface 426 and a lower surface 428. The sealing member 420 also includes a PET - 14 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993layer 430 which was 50 microns as well as a further PET layer 432. The further PET layer was 12 microns with a SiOx coating 434 for barrier properties.

[0077] FIG.6 illustrates Example 2. Sealing member 520 includes a heat seal layer 522 with metallized PET polypropylene layer 524. The metallized polypropylene layer 524 is 40 microns with metallized layers on an upper surface 526 and a lower surface 528. The sealing member 520 also includes a polypropylene foam layer 530 which was 20 microns (0.5 g / ml density) as well as a further polypropylene layer 532. The further polypropylene layer 532 was 40 microns with a SiOx coating 534 for barrier properties.

[0078] Example 3, a cellulose based sealing member, is shown in FIG.7. Sealing member 620 includes a heat seal layer 622 with metallized cellulose film layer 624. The metallized cellulose film layer 624 is 45 microns with metallized layers on an upper surface 626 and a lower surface 628. The sealing member 620 also includes a cellulose film layer 630 which was 45 microns.

[0079] A further cellulose based sealing member is shown in FIG.8 as Example 4. Sealing member 720 includes a heat seal layer 722 with metallized cellulose film layer 724. The metallized cellulose film layer 724 is 45 microns with metallized layers on an upper surface 726 and a lower surface 728. The sealing member 720 also includes cellulose film layers 730 and 732 which are each 45 microns. This version can provide enhanced stiffness due to the extra cellulose film layer.

[0080] Example 5 is another form whereby a tie layer is used to join a heat seal with metallized PET. In Example 5, 12 micron PET includes metallization on both sides having an optical density of 3.0. A solvent based tie layer is then used to combine one side of the metallized PET with a lower heat seal layer. The tie layer was helpful in maintaining a seal with the metallized PET during induction sealing and subsequent vacuum testing.

[0081] Examples 6-27 include polyester and / or PET based samples having various configurations of layers, as described below. These examples may include one or more of a lacquer layer 1000, a first PET layer 1002, a second PET layer 1004, a metallization 1006, a heat seal film 1007, and / or and adhesive 1008.

[0082] The lacquer 1000 and / or the heat seal film 1007 may be used as a lowermost layer to adhere the sealing members to a container. It should be appreciated that the lacquer 1000 and the heat seal film 1007 function in a similar manner such that when referring to either it should be understood that they refer to one or more heat seal layers for adhering the - 15 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993sealing member to a container. The lacquer 1000 and / or heat seal film 1007 may include an optional tie layer for providing a desired seal with other layers in the sealing member. However, the tie layer is not necessarily shown in the figures. The lacquer 1000 may take a variety of forms, as described above. Further, the lacquer 1000 may be a sealing material that is suitable for sealing to one or more of PET, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and / or polyvinyl chloride. The lacquer 1000 may also be used in any amount needed, such as, for example, 2-5 grams per square meter.

[0083] The heat seal film 1007 may also take a variety of forms. For instance, the heat seal layer 1007may be a PET based film, such as a coextruded co-PET resin, a coated co-PET resin, and the like. The heat seal film 1007 may have a variety of thicknesses, as desired, such as from about 8-15 microns. As noted above, the heat seal film 1007 may also be used with a tie layer, as desired.

[0084] The first and second PET layers 1002,1004 may be included and can include one or more sides with metallization 1006. The first PET layer 1002 may be a relatively thinner such as a 5-20 micron PET layer, such as a biaxially oriented PET (BOPET) with one or more sides with metallization 1006. Further, an optional SiOx and / or AlOx layer may be included as part of the first PET layer 1002. The second PET layer 1004 may be similar to the first PET layer 1002 having the features described above. However, the second PET layer 1004 may be a relatively thicker PET layer that can be used as more of a bulking layer. The second PET layer 1004 may have a thickness of about 10-250 microns. These PET layers can be clear or opaque. Multiple first PET layers 1002 may be included in a sealing member and can be different, such as having different thicknesses as well as metallization.

[0085] The metallization 1006 can be positioned at one or more locations as noted above and as shown in the figures. The metallization 1006 can have an optical density of greater than 2.5, such as 3.0 or more. Further, the metallization 1006 may be in the form of a coating. The metallization 1006 may also include surface treatment of the layer to which the metallization 1006 is being applied or to adjacent layers contacting the metallization 1006. Such as surface treatment may include corona treatment, chemical treatment, such as with acrylic resins, and the like.

[0086] The adhesive 1008 may similarly take a variety of forms, as described above. For example, the adhesive 1008 may be solvent based or solvent-less and can also include two- - 16 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993part polyurethane resins, The adhesive 1008 may be included an any amount, such as from about 2-5 grams per square meter.

[0087] Detailed configurations for Examples 6-27 are shown in FIGS.9-30. Examples 6- 16 include a lacquer for sealing to a container whereas Examples 17-27 includes a heat seal film. It should be appreciated that these figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. The Examples include various numbers and combinations of metallization coatings. In some forms, additional metallization coatings may help to generate more heat for heat sealing. Further, the metallization coatings may help distribute heat more evenly across the sealing member to avoid localized hot spots and seal failure.

[0088] Each of samples 6-30 may include a tabbed configuration or a non-tabbed configuration, as discussed. For the sake of brevity, only Example 6 is shown in a tabbed configuration but it should be appreciated that each of Examples 6-30 may be in a tabbed configuration or a non-tabbed configuration. In FIG.6, the tabbed configuration includes upper portion 900 having support layer 902 that is partially adhered by adhesive 904 to a lower layer forming tab portion 906 that may be gripped by a user. In addition, or in the alternative, the tab portion 906 may be formed by including a tab layer and / or release layer to allow the tab portion 906 of the upper portion 900 to separate from the lower portion, such as the remainder of sealing member 1010. Further, details and alternative configurations of the tab portion 906 will be appreciated from the previous description of the tabs and as shown in FIG.3.

[0089] Example 6 is shown in FIG.9. Example 6 includes sealing member 1010 having the lacquer layer 1000 and metallization 1006 on one side of first PET layer 1002. Metallization 1006 is also included on the second PET layer 1004. While Example 6 is shown with the upper portion 900 being formed from extra layers, such as adhesive 904 and support layer 902, it should be appreciated that these layers do not need to be included. Similarly, a different upper portion and tabbed portion may be formed by having the other PET layer 1004 with metallization 1006 partially adhered to the first PET layer 1002 via a partial layer of adhesive 1008. This is an alternative method of forming the tabbed structure and functionality.

[0090] Example 7 with sealing member 1012 is shown in FIG.10 and is similar to Example 6. Instead of having each of the first and second PET layers 1002,1004 with metallization 1006, first PET layer 1004 includes metallization 1006 on both sides. Example 8, - 17 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993shown in FIG.11, includes sealing member 1014 that is similar to Example 6 but instead moves metallization 1006 from one side of first PET layer 1004 to the opposite side.

[0091] Example 9 is shown in FIG.12 as sealing member 1016. Sealing member 1016 is similar to sealing member 1012 and also includes an additional first PET layer 1002. In sealing member 1012, one of the first PET layers 1002 includes metallization 1006 on both sides while the other first PET layer 1002 does not include any metallization.

[0092] Example 10 is shown in FIG.13 as sealing member 1018. Sealing member 1018 is similar to sealing member 1016 with one of the first PET layers 1002 including metallization 1006 on both sides. However, sealing member 1018 also includes metallization 1006 on one side of the other first PET layer 1002.

[0093] Example 11 is shown in FIG.14 as sealing member 1020. Sealing member 1020 is similar to sealing member 108 but has positioned metallization 1006 on a different side of the other first PET layer 1002 away from adhesive 1008.

[0094] Example 12 is shown in FIG.15 as sealing member 1022. Sealing member 1022 includes metallization 1006 on both sides of first PET layer 1002 and metallization 1006 on the other PET layer 1004. The adhesive 1008 is positioned between the metallization 1006 on the first PET layer 1002 and the metallization 1006 on the other PET layer 1004.

[0095] Example 13 is shown in FIG.16 as sealing member 1024. Sealing member 1024 includes multiple first PET layers 1002 each with metallization 1006 on one side facing each other with adhesive 1008 therebetween. Further, the other PET layer 1004 includes metallization 1006 on one side with adhesive 1008.

[0096] Example 14 is shown in FIG.17 as sealing member 1026. Sealing member 1026 includes multiple first PET layers 1002, each with metallization 1006 on both sides. Further, Adhesive 1008 is used to secure the first PET layers 1002 to each other.

[0097] Example 15 is shown in FIG.18 as sealing member 1028. Sealing member 1028 includes one first PET layer 1002 with metallization 1006 on one side and another first PET layer 1002 with metallization 1006 on both sides. Further, the other PET layer 1004 includes metallization 1006 on one side. Adhesive 1008 is used between adjacent metallization 1006 to secure the PET layers 1002,1004 to one another. - 18 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0098] Example 16 is shown in FIG.19 as sealing member 1030. Sealing member 1030 is similar to sealing member 1028 but moves one of the metallization 1006 to the other side of the first PET layer 1002 adjacent the lacquer 1000.

[0099] Examples 17-27 include a heat seal film 1007. More specifically, Example 17 is shown in FIG.20 as sealing member 1032 having heat seal film 1007 along with the first PET layer 1002, the other PET layer 1004, and adhesives 1008. The first PET layer 1002 includes metallization 1006 on both sides.

[0100] Example 18 is shown in FIG.21 as sealing member 1034. Sealing member 1034 includes metallization 1006 on heat seal film 1007 and metallization 1006 on other PET layer 1004. It should be appreciated that sealing member 1034 does not include first PET layer 1002.

[0101] Example 19 is shown in FIG.22 as sealing member 1036. Sealing member 1036 includes adhesive 1008 between the heat seal film 1007 and the first PET layer 1002. Further first PET layer 1002 includes metallization 1006 on the opposite side with further adhesive 1008 between metallization 1006 on other PET layer 1004.

[0102] Example 20 is shown in FIG.23 as sealing member 1038. Sealing member 1038 includes multiple first PET layers 1002 one of which includes no metallization and the other includes metallization 1006 on both sides. There is no metallization on the other PET layer 1004.

[0103] Example 21 is shown in FIG.24 as sealing member 1040. Sealing member 1040 includes metallization 1006 on the heat seal film 1007 and metallization 1006 on both sides of first PET layer 1002. There is no metallization on the other PET layer 1004.

[0104] Example 22 is shown in FIG.25 as sealing member 1042. Sealing member 1042 includes the first PET layer 1002 with metallization 1006 on both sides. Further, there is metallization 1006 on one side of the other PET layer 1004 with adhesive between the metallization 1006.

[0105] Example 23 is shown in FIG.26 as sealing member 1044. Sealing member 1044 includes multiple first PET layers 1002, one of which includes a single metallization 1006 and the second which includes metallization 1006 on both sides. - 19 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0106] Example 24 is shown in FIG.27 as sealing member 1046. Sealing member 1046 is similar to sealing member 1044. However, the metallization from one of the first PET layers 1002 is not includes but instead metallization 1006 is positioned on the other PET layer 1004.

[0107] Example 25 is shown in FIG.28 as sealing member 1048. Sealing member 1048 includes metallization 1006 on heat seal film 1007 as well as metallization 1006 on both sides of first PET layer 1002. Further, there is metallization 1006 on the other PET layer 1004. Adhesive 1008 can be used between the metallization 1006.

[0108] Example 26 is shown in FIG.29 as sealing member 1050. Sealing member 1050 includes multiple first PET layers 1002, each with metallization on both sides. As shown in FIG.29, sealing member 1050 includes four layers of metallization 1006. It should be appreciated that additional layers of metallization 1006 can be included.

[0109] Example 27 is shown in FIG.30 as sealing member 1052. Sealing member 1052 includes three first PET layers 1002, two of which include metallization 1006 on both sides. Adhesive 1008 is placed in various locations, such as between adjacent metallization 1006 and also adjacent the non-metallized first PET layer 1002 at the top of the figure adjacent the heat seal 1007.

[0110] Examples 28-47 are directed to sealing members that include polyolefins having various configurations of layers, as described below. The examples include many similar layers as those described above with respect to Examples 6-27. Examples 28-47 may include one or more of a lacquer layer 2000, a polyolefin layer 2002, a polyolefin backing layer 2004, a metallization 2006, a heat seal film 2007, an adhesive 2008, and / or a tie layer 2010.

[0111] The lacquer 2000 and / or the heat seal film 2007 may be used as a lowermost layer to adhere the sealing members to a container. It should be appreciated that the lacquer 2000 and the heat seal film 2007 function in a similar manner such that when referring to either it should be understood that they refer to one or more heat seal layers for adhering the sealing member to a container. The lacquer 2000 and / or heat seal film 2007 may include an optional tie layer for providing a desired seal with other layers in the sealing member. However, the tie layer is not necessarily shown in the figures. The lacquer 2000 may take a variety of forms, as described above. Further, the lacquer 2000 may be a sealing material that is suitable for sealing to one or more of PET, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and / or polyvinyl chloride. The lacquer 2000 may also be used in any amount needed, such as, for example, 2-5 grams per square meter. - 20 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0112] The heat seal film 2007 may also take a variety of forms. For instance, the heat seal layer 2007may be a PET based film, such as a coextruded co-PET resin, a coated co-PET resin, and the like. The heat seal film 2007 may have a variety of thicknesses, as desired, such as from about 8-15 microns. As noted above, the heat seal film 2007 may also be used with a tie layer, as desired.

[0113] The polyolefin layer 2002 and polyolefin backing layer 2004 may be included and can include one or more sides with metallization 2006. The polyolefin layer 2002 may be a relatively thinner such as a 5-50 micron polyolefin layer, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and the like, with one or more sides with metallization 2006. Further, an optional SiOx and / or AlOx layer may be included as part of the polyolefin layer 2002. Multiple polyolefin layers 2002 may be included in a sealing member and can be different, such as having different thicknesses as well as metallization.

[0114] The polyolefin backing layer 2004 may be similar to the polyolefin layer 2002 having the features described above. However, the polyolefin backing layer 2004 may be a relatively thicker layer that can be used as more of a backing and / or bulking layer. The polyolefin backing layer 2004 may have a thickness of about 30-250 microns. In some forms, the polyolefin backing layer 2004 may be a foamed material, such as polyethylene foam. In some forms, the polyolefin backing layer 2004 may be a film material such as biaxially oriented polypropylene films. These polyolefin backing layers can be clear or opaque. Multiple first polyolefin layers 2002 may be included in a sealing member and can be different, such as having different thicknesses as well as metallization.

[0115] The metallization 2006 can be positioned at one or more locations as noted above and as shown in the figures. The metallization 2006 can have an optical density of greater than 2.5, such as 3.0 or more. Further, the metallization 2006 may be in the form of a coating. The metallization 2006 may also include surface treatment of the layer to which the metallization 2006 is being applied or to adjacent layers contacting the metallization 2006. Such as surface treatment may include corona treatment, chemical treatment, such as with acrylic resins, and the like.

[0116] The adhesive 2008 may similarly take a variety of forms, as described above. For example, the adhesive 2008 may be solvent based or solvent-less and can also include two- part polyurethane resins, The adhesive 2008 may be included an any amount, such as from about 2-5 grams per square meter. - 21 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0117] One or more tie layers 2010 may be included in various locations of the sealing members to increase adhesion between layers. While tie layers 2010 are shown in some of the embodiments, it should be appreciated that additional tie layers 2010 can be included in the sealing members and in some of the examples where no tie layers are shown.

[0118] Detailed configurations for Examples 28-47 are shown in FIGS.31-35. Examples 28-37 include a lacquer for sealing to a container whereas Examples 38-50 includes a heat seal film and a polyolefin backing. It should be appreciated that these figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0119] Example 28 is shown in FIG.31 as sealing member 2012. Sealing member 2012 includes lacquer 2000 with tie layer 2010. Additionally each polyolefin layer 2002 includes metallization 2006 on one side. Adhesive 2008 extends between one metallization 2006 and the other polyolefin layer 2002.

[0120] Example 29 is shown in FIG.32 as sealing member 2014. Sealing member 2014 is similar to sealing member 2012 except that one of the polyolefin layers 2002 includes metallization 2006 on both sides and the other polyolefin layer 2002 does not include any metallization 2006.

[0121] Example 30 is shown in FIG.33 as sealing member 2016. Sealing member 2016 includes the polyolefin layer 2002 with the lacquer 2000 on one side and metallization 2006 on the other. Adhesive layer 2008 is between the adjacent metallization 2006 on the polyolefin layers 2002.

[0122] Example 31 is shown in FIG.34 as sealing member 2018. Sealing member 2018 includes three polyolefin layers 2002 with one having metallization 2006 on both sides. Adhesive 2008 is between the metallization 2006 and the adjacent polyolefin layers 2002.

[0123] Example 32 is shown in FIG.35 as sealing member 2020. Sealing member 2020 includes three polyolefin layers 2002 with the middle layer including metallization 2006 on both sides. The polyolefin layer 2002 adjacent the lacquer 2000 also includes metallization 2006.

[0124] Example 33 is shown in FIG.36 as sealing member 2022. Sealing member 2022 includes three polyolefin layers 2002, one of which includes metallization 2006 on both sides, one of which includes metallization 2006 on one side, and the other without metallization. Further a tie layer 2010 is positioned between the lacquer 2000 and metallization 2006. - 22 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0125] Example 34 is shown in FIG.37 as sealing member 2024. Sealing member 2024 includes two polyolefin layers 2002, one of which includes metallization 2006 on both sides and the other includes metallization 2006 on one side. Adjacent metallization 2006 is joined via adhesive 2008.

[0126] Example 35 is shown in FIG.38 as sealing member 2026. Sealing member 2026 includes three polyolefin layers 2002 each with metallization 2006 on one side. Adhesive 2008 is used to secure each metallization 2006 to adjacent layers.

[0127] Example 36 is shown in FIG.39 as sealing member 2028. Sealing member 2028 includes three polyolefin layers 2002, two of which include metallization 2006 on both sides. Tie layer 2010 and / or adhesive layers 2008 are positioned between the metallization 2006 and adjacent layers.

[0128] Example 37 is shown in FIG.40 as sealing member 2030. Sealing member 2030 includes three polyolefin layers 2002, one of which includes metallization 2006 on both sides and the remaining include metallization 2006 only on one side. Adhesive layer 2008 is positioned between adjacent metallization 2006.

[0129] Examples 38-47 include polyolefin backing 2004 and heat seal film 2007. Example 38 is shown in FIG.41 as sealing member 2032. Sealing member 2032 includes heat seal film 2007 for securing to a container. Sealing member 2032 also includes polyolefin layer 2002 with metallization 2006 on both sides. Further, polyolefin backer 2004 is secured via adhesive 2008.

[0130] Example 39 is shown in FIG.42 as sealing member 2034. Sealing member 2034 includes metallization 2006 on one side of heat seal film 2007 and metallization 2006 on one side of polyolefin backing 2004. Adhesive 2008 is used between the metallization 2006 coatings.

[0131] Example 40 is shown in FIG.43 as sealing member 2036. Sealing member 2036 is similar to sealing member 2034 but instead includes metallization 2006 on polyolefin layer 2002 instead of the heat seal 2007. Polyolefin backing 2004 includes metallization 2006.

[0132] Example 41 is shown in FIG.44 as sealing member 2038. Sealing member 2038 includes two polyolefin layers 2002, one of which includes metallization 2006 on both sides. Adhesive 2008 is used to secure the metallization 2006 to adjacent layers. - 23 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

[0133] Example 42 is shown in FIG.45 as sealing member 2040. Sealing member 2040 includes metallization 2006 on heat seal film 2007. Further, polyolefin layer 2002 includes metallization 2006 on both sides thereof. Adhesive 2008 is between the adjacent metallization 2006.

[0134] Example 43 is shown in FIG.46 as sealing member 2042. Sealing member 2042 includes metallization 2006 on both sides of polyolefin layer 2002. Further, metallization 2006 is on one side of polyolefin backing 2004.

[0135] Example 44 is shown in FIG.47 as sealing member 2044. Sealing member 2044 includes two polyolefin layers 2002, one of which includes metallization 2006 on both sides and the other includes metallization 2006 on one side. Adhesive layer 2008 is positioned between the metallization 2006 and adjacent layers.

[0136] Example 45 is shown in FIG.48 as sealing member 2046. Sealing member 2046 includes two polyolefin layers 2002, one with metallization 2006 on both sides and the other with no metallization 2006. The polyolefin backing 2004 includes metallization 2006 on one side.

[0137] Example 46 is shown in FIG.49 as sealing member 2048. Sealing member 2048 includes four coatings of metallization 2006. The heat seal film 2007 includes metallization 2006 on one side. The polyolefin layer 2002 includes metallization 2006 on both sides. The polyolefin backing 2004 includes metallization 2006 on one side. Adhesive layers 2008 are positioned between adjacent coatings of metallization 2006.

[0138] Example 47 is shown in FIG.50 as sealing member 2050. Sealing member 2050 includes two polyolefin layers 2002 each with metallization 2006 on both sides. Adhesive layers 2008 are positioned between the coatings of metallization 2006 and adjacent layers.

[0139] The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. While particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of Applicant’s contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art. - 24 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An induction sealing member for sealing to a rim surrounding a container opening, the sealing member comprising: a lower heat seal layer; a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface; a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces, the metallized coating configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process; and at least one additional layer selected from a film layer, a foam layer, or a combination film and foam layer, the induction sealing member being free of metal foil.

2. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the metallized coating is positioned on both the top and bottom surfaces of the support layer.

3. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the metallized coating has an optical density of about 1.5 to about 3.

5.

4. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the metallized coating has a thickness of about 30 nm to about 60 nm.

5. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the metallized coating is an aluminum coating.

6. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the support layer is a film having a thickness of about 10 microns to about 60 microns.

7. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the support layer is a film comprising polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyethylene, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially oriented polypropylene, cellulose, polyamide, polylactic acid, other biopolymers, and combinations thereof. - 25 - Attorney Docket 1800-1629938. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the sealing member is a mono-material such that the induction sealing member contains at least about 95 wt.% of the same type of material.

9. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein the sealing member contains less than about 0.1 wt.% metal.

10. The induction sealing member of claim 1 further comprising a foam layer.

11. The induction sealing member of claim 1 further comprising an upper portion secured to the at least one additional film layer, the upper portion comprising an absorbent liner and an adhesive, wherein the absorbent liner absorbs at least a portion of the adhesive to at least partially absorb a portion of the adhesive during an induction heating process.

12. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein at least an upper portion is partially bonded to a lower portion to define a gripping tab, the gripping tab configured for removing the sealing member from the rim.

13. The induction sealing member of claim 1, further comprising an additional metallized coating on at least one of the lower heat seal layer or the at least one additional layer.

14. The induction sealing member of claim 1, wherein there are at least 3 separate metallized coatings.

15. An induction sealing member for sealing to a rim surrounding a container opening, the sealing member comprising: a lower heat seal layer; a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface; a metallized coating on the top and bottom surfaces, the metallized coating having an optical density of about 1.5 to about 3.5 and configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process; and at least one additional film layer, - 26 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993the induction sealing member is mono-material with each of the layers, with the exception of the metallized coating, comprising the same type of material, the induction sealing layer being free of metal foil.

16. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein the metallized coating has a thickness of about 30 nm to about 60 nm.

17. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein the metallized coating is an aluminum coating.

18. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein the support layer is a film having a thickness of about 10 microns to about 60 microns.

19. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein the support layer is a film comprising polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyethylene, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially oriented polypropylene, cellulose, polyamide, polylactic acid, other biopolymers, and combinations thereof.

20. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein the sealing member contains less than about 0.15 wt.% metal.

21. The induction sealing member of claim 15 further comprising a foam layer.

22. The induction sealing member of claim 15 further comprising an upper portion secured to the at least one additional film layer, the upper portion comprising an absorbent liner and an adhesive, wherein the absorbent liner absorbs at least a portion of the adhesive to at least partially absorb a portion of the adhesive during an induction heating process.

23. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein at least an upper portion is partially bonded to a lower portion to define a gripping tab, the gripping tab configured for removing the sealing member from the rim. - 27 - Attorney Docket 1800-16299324. The induction sealing member of claim 15 further comprising an additional metallized coating on at least one of the lower heat seal layer or the at least one additional film layer.

25. The induction sealing member of claim 15, wherein there are at least 3 separate metallized coatings.

26. A laminate web for forming an induction sealing member, the laminate web comprising: a lower heat seal layer; a support layer having a top surface and a bottom surface; a metallized coating on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces, the metallized coating configured to heat the lower heat seal layer during an induction heating process; and at least one additional film layer, the laminate web being free of metal foil, wherein the laminate web is formed into a roll. - 28 - Attorney Docket 1800-162993

Images