Nonwoven fabric and its use for oral dosage forms

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bio-based as well as biodegradable and / or compostable nonwoven fabric, an oral dosage form, specifically an oral nicotine composition containing this nonwoven fabric as a carrier, processes for producing the nonwoven fabric and the oral dosage form, and the use of the nonwoven fabric.

Description

[0001] Dr. Daniela Kuhn / MH

[0002] Applicant: Carl Freudenberg KG, 69469 Weinheim

[0003] Nonwoven fabric and its use in oral dosage forms

[0004] The present invention relates to a nonwoven fabric that is both bio-based and biodegradable and / or compostable, an oral dosage form, specifically an oral nicotine composition containing this nonwoven fabric as a carrier, a method for producing the nonwoven fabric and the oral dosage form, and the use of the nonwoven fabric.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Nonwovens are extremely versatile textile materials that have found widespread use. Products made from nonwovens are used in many sectors and for many purposes, such as in the clothing and automotive industries, the construction and energy sectors. Specialized applications for nonwovens can be found in the cosmetics, hygiene, and healthcare sectors. Nonwovens can be tailored to specific applications by selecting the physicochemical properties of the fibers used in their production, the type of fiber placement, compaction, and bonding, the fiber finishing, and the manufacturing process.

[0007] There is currently a high demand for nonwovens that meet the ecological requirements for the use of sustainable materials. The aim is to avoid fossil raw materials, such as mineral oil, in the supply of the fibers used, and the nonwovens and resulting products should be biodegradable and / or compostable. Sustainable production should not negatively affect the application-related properties of the nonwovens.

[0008] Special requirements are placed on carriers for oral dosage forms that serve to release ingredients into the mouth and throat without the carriers themselves dissolving or being ingested. Such dosage forms can be placed, for example, under the upper lip (labially), in the cheek (buccally), or under the tongue (sublingually), and the ingredients are absorbed either through the oral mucosa or the gastrointestinal tract. A special type of such oral dosage form is oral nicotine compounds, which are placed, for example, under the upper lip for consumption. These so-called smokeless products for oral use are well-known to experts and include both tobacco-containing and tobacco-free products. Tobacco-containing oral products are a form of oral nicotine product particularly widespread in Scandinavia and are also known as snus (pronounced snooze).Such tobacco products are offered in loose form or as portion packs in a saliva-permeable, porous outer material, generally forming a pouch enclosing a tobacco-based filling material. Snus is distinct from tobacco-free nicotine products, which are also consumed orally but do not contain tobacco. Non-tobacco products are offered, for example, in the form of nicotine pouches, also known as nicotine bags, nicopods, or "white snus." These generally consist of a filling material containing particulate material and / or fibers, which may be plant fibers of a different origin than tobacco or synthetic fibers. Oral-use pouch products are typically used by the consumer by placing the pouch between the upper or lower gum and lip and leaving it there for a limited time.The pouch material holds the tobacco or non-tobacco filling material in place, while saliva can penetrate the filling material and release active ingredients, e.g. nicotine, as well as other ingredients, such as flavorings, into the mouth and throat of the consumer.

[0009] It is known to use water-insoluble nonwovens as a carrier material for oral nicotine products.

[0010] EP 4193849 A1 describes an oral smoke-free product comprising a carrier and an active ingredient and / or a flavoring, wherein the carrier consists of a water-insoluble nonwoven fabric. The fibers of the nonwoven fabric may comprise or consist of cellulose fibers, such as cotton, pulp, flax, hemp, or man-made cellulose fibers. It is described that the carrier may comprise a biodegradable material and that it may be a wet-laid nonwoven fabric.

[0011] There remains a need for nonwovens for use as carriers for oral dosage forms, and especially oral nicotine formulations, that exhibit an optimized property profile. These nonwovens should not only be biodegradable and / or compostable, but also bio-based. The use of components derived from fossil raw materials, particularly mineral oil, should be avoided as much as possible. The nonwoven fabric, and even its intermediate products, should possess good application-related properties. In particular, the laid nonwoven (the fiber pile) should already exhibit good strength before impregnation and bonding with a binder. Specifically, the binder used should also be biodegradable / compostable and bio-based. The resulting nonwoven fabric should also possess good properties as a carrier material for oral dosage forms, and especially oral nicotine formulations.It should be easily loaded with the desired ingredients, especially nicotine and / or flavorings, particularly through coating and / or impregnation with a liquid composition of the ingredients. The nonwoven fabric loaded with the ingredients should be easily formed into the desired shape, especially by die-cutting and / or cutting. The nonwoven fabric should also exhibit good machine processability. Furthermore, the resulting oral dosage form, especially the oral nicotine composition, should have user-friendly properties. These include a pleasant mouthfeel, no dissolving or breaking down into smaller components, and good release characteristics with regard to the ingredients.Surprisingly, it has now been found that nonwovens based on a fiber composition comprising man-made cellulose fibers and polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and a binder based on at least one bio-based polymeric binder, exhibit a particularly advantageous profile with regard to the aforementioned properties. These nonwovens are especially suitable as carriers for oral dosage forms, and particularly for oral nicotine products.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A first object of the invention is a nonwoven fabric comprising a) a fiber composition comprising a1) man-made cellulose fibers, a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and a3) optionally further fibers different from a1) and a2), b) at least one bio-based polymeric binder.

[0014] In a special embodiment, the polymeric binder comprises b) at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups and / or at least one polyelectrolyte with anionogenic / anionic groups.

[0015] In another special embodiment, the polymeric binder comprises b) citrus fruit peels, preferably orange peels.

[0016] Another object of the invention is an oral dosage form which, when used, releases at least one ingredient into the mouth and throat, containing

[0017] A) at least one releaseable ingredient and

[0018] B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined above and below.

[0019] Another object of the invention is an oral nicotine composition comprising

[0020] A1) Nicotine,

[0021] A2) optionally at least one ingredient different from A1), preferably selected from flavourings, pH regulators, rheology modifiers, wetting agents and mixtures thereof, B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined above and below.

[0022] A further object of the invention is a method for producing a nonwoven fabric, as defined above and below, in which one (i) provides a fiber composition (a) comprising (a1) man-made cellulose fibers, (a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and (a3) ​​optionally further fibers different from (a1) and (a2), (ii) subjects the fiber composition provided in step (i) to a process for producing a fiber nap, (iii) subjects the fiber nap produced in step (ii) to a thermal process to obtain a bonded nonwoven fabric, (iv) loads the bonded nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iii) with a binder (b), (v) subjects the nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iv) loaded with the binder (b) to a thermal treatment.

[0023] A further object of the invention is a method for producing an oral dosage form, in which one (i) provides a fiber composition (a) comprising (a1) man-made cellulose fibers, (a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and (a3) ​​optionally further fibers different from (a1) and (a2), (ii) subjects the fiber composition provided in step (i) to a process for producing a fiber nap, (iii) subjects the fiber nap produced in step (ii) to a thermal process to obtain a consolidated nonwoven fabric, (iv) loads the consolidated nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iii) with a binder (b), (v) subjects the nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iv) loaded with the binder (b) to a thermal treatment, (vi) loads the thermally treated nonwoven fabric obtained in step (v) with at least one ingredient, (vii) subjects the nonwoven fabric obtained in step (vi) loaded with an ingredient to a shaping process.

[0024] Another object of the invention is an oral dosage form obtainable by a method comprising steps i) to vii), as defined above and below.

[0025] Another object of the invention is the use of a nonwoven fabric, as defined above and below, as a carrier for oral dosage forms, in particular oral nicotine compositions.

[0026] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Within the scope of the present invention, "bio-based" refers to products (compounds or materials) that are at least partially, and preferably entirely, derived from renewable sources. Their production avoids the use of fossil raw materials as much as possible, and in particular, entirely. Raw materials of fossil origin include, in particular, all substances derived from the processing of petroleum, natural gas, and coal deposits (lignite, hard coal, or anthracite). These include, for example, distillates, distillation residues, or petroleum components obtained through refining processes such as cracking, as well as products from gas and coal processing, such as those obtained during the coking, liquefaction, and distillation of lignite, hard coal, or anthracite.

[0028] To distinguish between bio-based and fossil products, the 14 C- to 12 The ratio of C isotopes is used. 14 C to12 Carbon dioxide (C) in the living organism and in the resulting biomass corresponds to the ratio in the atmosphere, since living biomass undergoes metabolism. 14 C and 12 C is absorbed through food or photosynthesis. 14 Carbon-14 is subject to radioactive decay, but is produced in the upper layers of the Earth's atmosphere by nuclear reaction. 14 N is constantly being replenished, so that a balance between regeneration and decay is established. All fossil carbon sources have in common that their 14 The carbon content is significantly lower than that of renewable raw materials, as they no longer participate in the continuous exchange of isotopes. Living organisms contain per 10 12 stable 12 C and 13 C-isotopes approx.

[0029] 1,2 radioactive 14 C-isotopes.

[0030] Bio-based compounds according to the invention preferably have a proportion of the 14 C-isotopes to the 12C-isotopes of at least 1.0 x 10' 16 , especially preferably of at least 1.0 x 10 -15 , in particular of at least 1.0 x 10 14 , especially of at least 1.5 x 10' 13 , especially of at least 3.0 x 10' 13 Bio-based compounds preferentially contain a proportion of 14 C-isotopes to the 12 C-isotopes in the range of 6.0 x 10- 13 up to 1.2 x 10- 12 on.

[0031] The 14 The carbon content of a sample can be determined either by counting the decaying carbon. 14 C-isotopes in a counting tube (Libby method), in a liquid scintillation spectrometer, or by counting the remaining traces 14 Carbon-14 isotopes can be determined using accelerator mass spectrometry. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) allows for the determination of these isotopes. 14 C isotopes using nuclear physics measurement methods in the ppt to ppq range (from 10' 12 up to 10'16 ) can be detected in the smallest sample quantities (milligram range).

[0032] A plastic material is considered biodegradable if it can be converted by microorganisms into carbon dioxide, water, mineral salts, and biomass in the presence of oxygen, or into carbon dioxide, methane, mineral salts, and biomass in the absence of oxygen. Generally, a material is considered biodegradable if a certain reduction in a critical physical or mechanical property is observed after exposure to a defined biological environment for a specific period of time. A critical parameter for the extent of biodegradation of a nonwoven fabric is the decrease in the material's tensile strength.

[0033] A test for “biodegradability in soil” is defined in ASTM D5988 “Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials in Soil”. The test described in ASTM D5988 is equivalent to ISO 17556 (current version: DIN EN ISO 17556:2019-09, Plastics - Determination of the complete aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil by measuring the oxygen demand in a respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide produced). The test method involves determining the degree and rate of aerobic biodegradation of plastics, including formulation additives, in contact with soil under laboratory conditions.

[0034] According to the compostability standard DIN EN 13432:2000-12, the products must be at least 90% decomposable to fragments smaller than 2 mm within a maximum of 90 days in an industrial composting facility. Further evidence of biodegradability is provided by the OECD 301 (AF) test series, which is designed to demonstrate rapid and complete biodegradation under aerobic conditions. The OECD 301 A test is particularly suitable for demonstrating the biodegradability of the bio-based polymeric binder b). In the OECD 301 A test, the test substance is tested at a concentration high compared to other tests, i.e., 10-40 mg DOC / L (DOC = Dissolved Organic Carbon). The DOC concentration is measured at defined intervals over a period of 28 days.

[0035] The fibers used can be characterized by their fineness, i.e., their weight per unit length. The so-called fineness of the fibers is specified in dtex (1 dtex = 0.1 tex or 1 gram per 10,000 meters).

[0036] The term "machine direction" or "MD" used herein refers to the direction of travel of the nonwoven web during production. The term "cross direction" or "CD" or "CMD" used herein refers to the direction that runs perpendicular to the machine direction and extends across the width of the nonwoven web.

[0037] The nonwovens according to the invention can be, for example, staple fiber nonwovens, spunbond nonwovens, meltblown nonwovens, or wet-processed nonwovens. In a preferred embodiment, the nonwovens according to the invention are wet-processed nonwovens.

[0038] In the wet-weave process, staple fibers are suspended in water. The fiber length is generally up to 30 mm, preferably up to 20 mm. The water-fiber dispersion is then continuously deposited onto a forming screen to form the nonwoven. The water is extracted, filtered, and, if necessary, recycled.

[0039] The nonwovens according to the invention are particularly advantageous as carriers for oral dosage forms and especially oral nicotine compositions.

[0040] The nonwovens according to the invention have at least one of the following advantages:

[0041] They are biodegradable and / or compostable and also bio-based. In the production of the nonwovens according to the invention, the use of components from fossil raw materials can be at least partially, usually largely, and in particular completely avoided.

[0042] Specifically, the binder used to solidify the nonwovens should also be biodegradable / compostable and bio-based.

[0043] The nonwoven fabric and its intermediate products already possess good application-related properties. In particular, the laid nonwoven (the fiber pile) already exhibits good strength, especially good wet strength, before impregnation and bonding with the binder.

[0044] The nonwoven fabric according to the invention has an optimized property profile that makes it particularly suitable for use as a carrier material for oral dosage forms and especially oral nicotine formulations. It can be readily loaded with a variety of different ingredients, e.g., with stimulants such as nicotine / tobacco, pharmaceutical active ingredients, flavorings, foods and dietary supplements, oral and dental care products, etc. Loading can generally be achieved simply by coating and / or impregnating the material with a liquid composition of the ingredients.

[0045] The nonwoven fabric loaded with the ingredients can easily be shaped as desired, especially by die-cutting and / or cutting. It also exhibits good machine processability in general.

[0046] Furthermore, oral dosage forms, especially oral nicotine formulations, based on the nonwovens according to the invention exhibit user-friendly properties. These include a pleasant mouthfeel, no dissolution or breakdown into smaller components, and good release characteristics with regard to the ingredients.

[0047] The nonwovens possess advantageous mechanical properties. They exhibit particularly good tensile properties, both in the x-axis direction (machine direction, MD) and in the y-axis direction (cross machine direction, CD or CMD). This results in very good values ​​for maximum tensile strength and maximum elongation according to DIN ISO 9073-3. This applies to both dry and wet conditions. They therefore possess the mechanical stability required for carriers in oral dosage forms.

[0048] The nonwoven fabrics also have good air permeability.

[0049] Man-made cellulose fibers a1)

[0050] The fiber composition a) contains as component a1) man-made cellulose fibers (industrially manufactured cellulose fibers).

[0051] The term "man-made cellulose fibers" encompasses both non-derivatized and derivatized cellulose fibers. To produce cellulose fibers, the solid cellulose, which exists in the form of pulp, must first be dissolved. This can be achieved by dissolving the cellulose in a suitable solvent and subjecting it to fiber formation with subsequent solidification. These processes yield non-derivatized cellulose fibers, also known as regenerated cellulose fibers; that is, the fibers obtained still consist of cellulose. Regenerated cellulose fibers are a preferred embodiment of man-made cellulose fibers (a1).

[0052] Suitable regenerated cellulose fibers for component a1) are selected from viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, cupro fibers, and mixtures thereof. Lyocell fibers are a special type of man-made cellulose fiber a1). They are produced using a direct solvent process with a tertiary amine oxide as the solvent. N-methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMMO) is the preferred solvent. Lyocell fibers are offered in a wide range of fineness grades by Lenzing AG under the brand name Tencel®.

[0053] Alternatively, cellulose can be derivatized by derivatization, e.g., by esterification with an organic or inorganic acid, thus becoming more soluble and subsequently processed into fibers. Organic carboxylic acids, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and mixtures thereof are preferably used for esterification. Derivatized cellulose fibers can contain a cellulose ester whose ester groups are derived from a single carboxylic acid, a cellulose semi-ester whose ester groups are derived from two or more carboxylic acids, and any mixtures thereof. Cellulose acetates are preferably used for fiber formation.

[0054] In particular, the man-made cellulose fibers a1) are selected from viscose fibers, lyocell fibers, and mixtures thereof. In a special version, the man-made cellulose fibers a1) include or consist of viscose fibers.

[0055] Preferably, component a1) comprises or consists of fibers with a fineness in the range of 0.1 to 30.0 dtex, particularly preferably 1.0 to 12.0 dtex, especially 1.1 to 6.0 dtex, specifically 1.2 to 3.3 dtex.

[0056] Preferably the fiber composition a) contains the man-made cellulose fibers a1) in an amount of 0.1 to 50 wt.%, particularly preferably 0.5 to 40 wt.%, in particular 1.0 to 30 wt.%, based on the total weight of the fiber composition a).

[0057] Polyvinyl alcohol is particularly advantageous for use in the nonwovens and oral dosage forms according to the invention, especially oral nicotine formulations. It is tasteless and odorless, non-toxic, biocompatible, and approved as a food additive in the European Union. Within the scope of the invention, partially or fully saponified (hydrolyzed) polyvinyl acetates (PVA) are referred to as polyvinyl alcohols (PVOH or PVA). Partially saponified polyvinyl acetates are obtained by incomplete hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetates, i.e., the partially saponified polymer has both ester and hydroxyl groups. Polyvinyl alcohols are considered fully saponified from a degree of saponification of 98%.

[0058] The application properties of polyvinyl alcohols and fibers based on them are determined, among other things, by the degree of polymerization and the degree of hydrolysis (saponification). As the degree of saponification increases, water solubility decreases. Polyvinyl alcohols with degrees of hydrolysis up to approximately 90 mol% are generally soluble in cold water. Polyvinyl alcohols with degrees of hydrolysis from approximately 90 to approximately 99.9 mol% are generally no longer soluble in cold water, but are soluble in hot water.

[0059] The polyvinyl alcohol fibers a2) contained in the fiber composition a) preferably contain polyvinyl alcohols that are not soluble in cold water and are only soluble in hot water at higher temperatures.

[0060] Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) have a degree of saponification in the range of 91.00 to 99.99 mol%, particularly preferably 97.00 to 99.99 mol%, and especially 98.00 to 99.98 mol%.

[0061] Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) are soluble in water at a temperature of at least 30°C, particularly preferably at at least 45°C, especially at at least 55°C, and particularly at at least 60°C.

[0062] Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) have a weight-average molecular weight of 300 to 100,000 g / mol, particularly preferably of 500 to 50,000 g / mol, and especially of 800 to 25,000 g / mol.

[0063] The polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) preferably have a melting point (T m The polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) preferably have a melting point of 150°C to 260°C, particularly preferably 190°C to 220°C.

[0064] The polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) preferably have a viscosity of 0.1 to 300 mPa s, particularly preferably of 1 to 150 mPa s, especially of 2 to 100 mPa s, measured according to DIN 53015 on a 4% solution in water.

[0065] Polyvinyl alcohols suitable for polyvinyl alcohol fibers (a2) also include copolymers containing at least one other monomer polymerized into them, different from vinyl alcohol and vinyl acetate. Suitable comonomers are selected from vinyl propionate, vinyl butyrate, N-vinylpyrrolidone, N-vinylcaprolactam, N-vinylimidazole, monomers with carboxylic acid groups, monomers with sulfonic acid groups, monomers with ethylene groups, monomers with silane groups, monomers with silanol groups, monomers with amine groups, monomers with ammonium groups, and mixtures thereof.

[0066] In a special embodiment, the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) have no further polymerized monomers in addition to vinyl alcohol and vinyl acetate.

[0067] Preferably, component a2) comprises or consists of fibers with a fineness in the range of 0.01 to 30 dtex, preferably 0.1 to 15 dtex, in particular 0.5 to 3 dtex.

[0068] Preferably the fiber composition a) contains the polyvinyl alcohol fibers a2) in an amount of 0.1 to 60 wt.%, particularly preferably 0.5 to 40 wt.%, in particular 1.0 to 30 wt.%, based on the total weight of the fiber composition a).

[0069] Preferably, the weight ratio of a1 : a2 is in a range of 60:40 to 99.9 : 0.1, preferably from 85 : 15 to 97.0 : 3.0, based on the total weight of components a1) and a2).

[0070] Other fibers a3)

[0071] In a special embodiment, the fiber composition a) contains further fibers a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0072] Other suitable fibers (a3) ​​are conventional (non-biodegradable or non-compostable) fibers, biodegradable and / or compostable fibers and mixtures thereof.

[0073] If the fiber composition a) comprises further fibers a3), these are preferably selected from biodegradable and / or compostable fibers to a weight of at least 50 wt.%, particularly preferably at least 75 wt.%, and especially at least 95 wt.%, based on the total weight of the further fibers a3). If the fiber composition a) comprises further fibers a3), these are specifically selected exclusively from biodegradable and / or compostable fibers.

[0074] The further fibers a3) are preferably selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers, thermoplastic starch fibers, including various fibers of natural polymers, biodegradable and / or compostable polyester fibers, polyesteramide fibers and mixtures thereof. In particular, the further fibers a3) are selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers and mixtures thereof.In particular, the biodegradable and / or compostable fiber a3) is selected from among fibers made of cotton, linen (flax), hemp, bamboo, soy, palm, coconut, wool, silk, chitin, chitosan, poly(ethylene succinate) (PES) fibers, poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) fibers, poly(ethylene adipate) (PEA) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA) fibers, polyhydroxyacetic acid (PGA) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene sebacate) (PBsu-co-BSe) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSu-co-Bad) fibers, poly(tetramethylene succinate) (PTMS) fibers, and polycaprolactone. (PCL) fibers, polypropriolactone (PPL) fibers, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) fibers, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) fibers, and mixtures thereof.

[0075] Polyethylene succinate can be obtained by reacting succinic acid with 1,2-ethanediol (ethylene glycol).

[0076] Polybutylene succinate can be obtained by reacting succinic acid with 1,4-butanediol. The starting materials (succinic acid and 1,4-butanediol) can be produced from fossil sources or from glucose.

[0077] Polycaprolactone is formed by ring-opening polymerization of s-caprolactone.

[0078] Polypropriolactone is formed by ring-opening polymerization of propriolactone. The propriolactone used as a starting material can be produced by carbonylation of ethylene oxide.

[0079] Polyhydroxyacetic acid, also called polyglycolic acid (PGA), can be produced by anionic polymerization of glycolide, the dimer of hydroxyacetic acid.

[0080] A special form of aliphatic polyesters are the polyhydroxyalkanoates, such as poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), poly(4-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV). These are advantageously not only biodegradable and / or compostable, but also available from renewable (non-fossil) sources. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is produced by various bacteria through the fermentation of carbohydrates under controlled nutrient conditions. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) can also be produced fermentatively from glucose and propionic acid.

[0081] Within the scope of the invention, the term aliphatic aromatic copolyester (AAC) refers to a polyester containing at least one aromatic dicarboxylic acid, at least one aliphatic diol, and at least one further aliphatic component. The further aliphatic component is preferably selected from aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, hydroxycarboxylic acids, lactones, and mixtures thereof. In contrast to polyesters consisting of at least one aromatic dicarboxylic acid and at least one aliphatic diol, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), aliphatic aromatic copolyesters (AAC) are generally biodegradable and / or compostable.

[0082] The preferred aliphatic aromatic copolyesters (AAC) are selected from the following copolymers: 1,4-butanediol, terephthalic acid, and adipic acid (BTA); 1,4-butanediol, terephthalic acid, and succinic acid; and 1,4-butanediol, terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, succinic acid, and lactic acid (PBSTIL). Blends of aliphatic aromatic polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene isophthalate (PEIP), and glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) with at least one of the aforementioned aliphatic polyesters, are also suitable. PETG is obtained by esterification of terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol and 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM).

[0083] Preferably, the fibers a3) comprise at least one thermoplastic starch or consist of at least one thermoplastic starch. Thermoplastic starch (TPS) is a thermoplastic biopolymer produced by subjecting an essentially anhydrous starch starting material to a thermo-mechanical treatment, e.g., in an extruder. For its production, a native starch or a starch derivative with a water content of at most 5% can be homogenized in an extrusion process with a plasticizing agent that lowers the melting temperature of the starch, and then melted by the application of mechanical energy and heat. Thermoplastic starch is essentially free of crystalline components and does not recrystallize.

[0084] Suitable plasticizers include, for example, glycerin, glycerol acetate, sorbitol, aliphatic polyesters, aliphatic aromatic copolyesters, polyesteramides, polyester urethanes, polyalkylene oxides, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the plasticizer is selected from biodegradable and / or compostable polymers. Specifically, at least one biodegradable and / or compostable polymer is used as the plasticizer, selected from aliphatic polyesters, aliphatic aromatic copolyesters, polyesteramides, and mixtures thereof.

[0085] Preferably, the starch material used to produce the thermoplastic starch is selected from native starches, oxidized starches, starch ethers, starch esters, cationically modified starches and mixtures thereof.

[0086] Oxidized starches exhibit varying degrees of oxidation, degradation, and regioselectivity of the resulting oxidation products, depending on the type of oxidizing agent and the oxidation conditions. In addition to oxidation products with carboxyl functionalities, those with aldehyde functionalities, such as dialdehyde starch, are also classified as oxidized starches. Preferably, the fibers a3) comprise at least one cellulose-containing natural fiber. Preferably, the cellulose-containing natural fibers are selected from cotton, linen (flax), hemp, bamboo, soy, palm, coconut, and mixtures thereof.

[0087] Preferably, the fibers a3) comprise or consist of at least one natural polymer. Preferably, the natural polymers are selected from chitin, chitosan, vegetable proteins, keratin, and mixtures thereof. Keratin is a collective term for various water-insoluble, animal fiber proteins. Wool and silk are preferred keratins suitable for fiber production.

[0088] Preferably, the fibers (a3) ​​comprise at least one polyesteramide or consist of at least one polyesteramide. Suitable polyesteramides are the BAK polyesteramides, which are biodegradable and / or compostable. A special type is polyesteramides that incorporate aliphatic ester units and aliphatic amide units. Thermoplastic and biodegradable aliphatic polyesteramides are described, for example, in EP 0641817 A2.

[0089] The fiber composition used according to the invention preferably contains as component a3) fibers with a fineness in the range of 0.1 to 30 dtex, particularly preferably 1 to 5 dtex.

[0090] In a special embodiment, the fiber composition a) contains no further fibers different from a1) and a2).

[0091] Bio-based polymeric binder b)

[0092] The polymeric binder b) is bio-based, i.e., it is derived at least partially, preferably entirely, from renewable sources. In a particular embodiment, the polymeric binder b) is derived entirely from renewable sources.

[0093] Preferably, the polymeric binder b) comprises a proportion of the 14 C-isotopes to the 12 C isotopes of at least 1.0 x 10⁻⁶ 16 , especially preferably of at least 1.0 x 10' 15 , in particular of at least 1.0 x 10' 14 , especially of at least 1.5 x 1013 , especially of at least 3.0 x 10' 13 The polymeric binder b) preferably comprises a proportion of the 14 C-isotopes to the 12 C-isotopes in the range of 6.0 x 10' 13 up to 1.2 x 10' 12 on.

[0094] The polymeric binder b) is preferably biodegradable and / or compostable. In particular, the polymeric binder b) is selected from among binders that exhibit "readily biodegradable" properties in OECD Test 301 A.

[0095] Preferably, the polymeric binders (b) comprise at least one polyelectrolyte selected from polyelectrolytes having cationogenic and / or cationic groups, polyelectrolytes having anionogenic and / or anionic groups, and polyelectrolytes having both cationogenic and / or cationic groups and anionogenic and / or anionic groups.

[0096] Preferably, the cationogenic and / or cationic groups of the polyelectrolytes used as polymeric binders (b) are nitrogen-containing groups, such as primary, secondary, and tertiary amino groups and quaternary ammonium groups. Charged cationic groups can be generated from the amine nitrogen either by protonation with acids or by quaternization with alkylating agents. Cationogenic and / or cationic groups are hereinafter also referred to as cationogenic / cationic groups for short.

[0097] Preferably, the anionic and / or anionic groups of the polyelectrolytes used as polymeric binders (b) are carboxylic acid groups, sulfonic acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, or their salts. Anionic and / or anionic groups are hereinafter also referred to as anionic / anionic groups for short.

[0098] In a particular embodiment, the polymeric binders comprise b) at least one polyelectrolyte complex comprising at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups and at least one polyelectrolyte with anionogenic / anionic groups.

[0099] In a further special embodiment, the polymeric binders comprise b) at least one polyelectrolyte complex comprising at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups and no polyelectrolyte with anionogenic / anionic groups.

[0100] Preferably, the polymeric binders comprise b) at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups, preferably selected from chitosan, aminoacetylated polyvinyl alcohol, poly-(L)-lysine, poly-(L)-arginine, poly(ornithine), basic gelatin, cationically modified starch, cationically modified amylose, cationically modified amylopectin, cationically modified cellulose, cationically modified guar gum, cationically modified gum arabic, cationically modified gum karaya, cationically modified gum guar, cationically modified dextran, cationically modified pullulan, cationically modified xanthan gum, cationically modified curdlan, cationically modified gellan, cationically modified carubin, cationically modified agarose and acid addition salts and quaternization products and mixtures thereof.

[0101] In principle, Brønsted acids and / or Lewis acids can be used to protonate the cationogenic groups. Suitable Brønsted acids are inorganic or organic acids. Organic acids are preferred. Quaternization of the cationogenic groups is achieved, for example, by reaction with dialkyl sulfates such as dimethyl sulfate, diethyl sulfate, etc., or alkyl halides such as methyl chloride, ethyl chloride, etc.

[0102] In a particular embodiment, the polymeric binders comprise b) chitosan.

[0103] Chitosan is a naturally occurring polyaminosaccharide derived from chitin through partial or complete deacetylation of the acetamido groups. Chitin, in turn, is a polysaccharide obtained, for example, from crustaceans and is composed of acetylglucosamine units (2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucopyranose, GIcNAc) linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds.

[0104] The binding properties of chitosan can be controlled by the degree of deacetylation and thus the proportion of amino groups bound to the polymer backbone. Preferably, the degree of deacetylation is in the range of 25 to 100%, particularly preferably 50 to 100%, and especially 65 to 100%. Cationic polyelectrolytes are obtained by protonation and / or quaternization of the amino groups of chitosan.

[0105] The cationic polyelectrolytes resulting from protonation and / or quaternization are capable of forming polyelectrolyte complexes with polyanions (anionic polyelectrolytes). The cationic and anionic components of the polyelectrolyte complexes can be used in a ratio such that the cationic charge is in excess, the anionic charge is in excess, or there is no excess charge. In a preferred embodiment, the cationic and anionic components of the polyelectrolyte complexes are used in a ratio such that the cationic charge is in excess.

[0106] Preferably, the polyelectrolytes with cationogenic / cationic groups have a number-average molecular weight of 500 to 500,000 g / mol, preferably of 1,000 to 200,000 g / mol.

[0107] Alternatively or in addition to at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups, the polymeric binders comprise b) at least one polyelectrolyte with anionogenic / anionic groups.

[0108] The polyelectrolyte with anionic / anionic groups is preferably selected from alginic acid, pectic acid, kappa-carrageenan, lambda-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, lignosulfonic acid, polygalacturonic acid, polyglucuronic acid, polyguluronic acid, polymannuronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, heparin, heparan sulfate, hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, keratan sulfate, poly-(L)-glutamic acid, poly-(L)-aspartic acid, acid gelatin, anionically modified starch, anionically modified amylose, anionically modified amylopectin, anionically modified cellulose, anionically modified guar, anionically modified gum arabic, anionically modified gum karaya, anionically modified gum guar, anionically modified gum guar, anionically modified dextran, anionically modified Pullulan, anionically modified xanthan gum, anionically modified curdlan gum, anionically modified gellan gum, anionically modified carubin gum, anionically modified agarose gum,anionically modified chitin, anionically modified chitosan, poly(phosphoric acid), poly(silicic acid) and salts and mixtures thereof.

[0109] In a particular embodiment, the polymeric binders comprise b) a polyelectrolyte with anionic / anionic groups selected from alginic acid, pectic acid, kappa-carrageenan, lambda-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, lignosulfonic acid, anionically modified starch, anionically modified cellulose, anionically modified gum arabic and salts and mixtures thereof.

[0110] Preferred salts: Polyelectrolytes with anionic / anionic groups are the sodium salts, potassium salts, calcium salts, magnesium salts, ammonium salts and salts with alkylamines and hydroxyalkylamines, in particular the sodium salts, potassium salts and ammonium salts.

[0111] Preferably, the polyelectrolytes with anionic / anionic groups have a number-average molecular weight of 500 to 500,000 g / mol, preferably of 1,000 to 200,000 g / mol.

[0112] The polymeric binder b) can contain, in addition to at least one polyelectrolyte, one of which may be different from the above. Suitable acids are inorganic or organic acids, preferably organic acids. Preferably, the organic acid is selected from mono- or polyvalent, saturated or unsaturated carboxylic acids and hydroxycarboxylic acids. Preferably, the acid is selected from formic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, dihydroxyfumaric acid, glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid, pyruvic acid, camphorsulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid, ortho-, meta-, para-toluenesulfonic acid, phthalic acid, salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, mandelic acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and mixtures thereof. In particular, the acid is selected from citric acid (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid), monosodium citrate, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, and mixtures thereof.In a particular embodiment, the polymeric binder (b) may additionally comprise at least one polyelectrolyte and an acid other than that thereof, comprising or consisting of citric acid. A preferred form of citric acid is citric acid monohydrate.

[0113] In a specific embodiment, the polymeric binder b) contains at least one bio-based plant product. Preferably, the bio-based plant product comprises citrus fruit peels, in particular orange peels. Orange (Citrus sinensis) peels are available in large quantities as a waste product of the food industry. For use in the binders b), the orange peels can be subjected to at least one pretreatment step, preferably selected as treatment under elevated temperature and / or elevated pressure, mechanical comminution, or a combination thereof.

[0114] Treatment at elevated temperature and / or reduced pressure serves, for example, to partially or completely remove water and stabilize the material against decomposition, e.g., by microorganisms. Advantageously, binders containing citrus fruit peels, especially orange peels, possess microbicidal properties.

[0115] In a first specific embodiment, a bio-based polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) is used as a binder, comprising a cationic biopolymer, an anionic biopolymer, an acid, and a preservative, wherein the net charge of the PEC is cationic, the charge ratio of the anionic polymer and the cationic polymer is less than or equal to 1, the cationic biopolymer is chitosan, wherein the concentration of the cation is 0.005–30%, the anionic biopolymer is a bio-based polyanion, the acid is a Brønsted acid and / or a Lewis acid, wherein the Brønsted acid is selected from any organic and / or inorganic acids, wherein the Lewis acid is selected from any cationic mono- or polyvalent atoms, and wherein the concentration of the acid is 0.01–30%, the weight ratio between the cation and the anion is 1:0.1 to 1:20, the weight ratio between the cation and the acid 1:0,The ratio is 0.1 to 1.30, the chitosan has a deacetylation level of 66-100%, and the pH value is less than 7.

[0116] Such bio-based polyelectrolyte complexes (PEC) are described in WO 2018 / 038671, which is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0117] In a further specific embodiment, the binder b) is an aqueous binder composition comprising an acid, a plasticizer, and a cationic polyelectrolyte comprising chitosan, wherein: the chitosan has a degree of deacetylation of 66–100%, and wherein the binder composition comprises 0.005–20 wt.% chitosan, the acid is a Brønsted acid and / or a Lewis acid, wherein the Brønsted acid is selected from any organic and / or inorganic acids, wherein the Lewis acid is selected from any cationic mono- or polyvalent atoms, and wherein the binder composition preferably comprises 0.01–30 wt.% acid, the aqueous binder composition contains at least 15 wt.% plasticizer, the pH of the binder composition is less than 7, and wherein the cationic polyelectrolyte is not in a complex with an anionic polyelectrolyte.

[0118] Such aqueous binder compositions are described in WO 2022 / 235189 038671, to which full reference is made.

[0119] Suitable commercially available polymeric binders include, for example, the OC-BioBinder® brands from OrganoClick AB, SE. OC-BioBinder® Lily 1450, which contains orange peel and chitosan, is particularly suitable.

[0120] Nonwoven fabric and methods for its manufacture

[0121] Specifically, the nonwoven fabric according to the invention has at least one of the following properties: a thickness measured according to EN ISO 9073-2:1996 on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2 at a pressure of 0.00125 MPa with a punch diameter of 35.7 mm from 0.3 to 2 mm, a maximum tensile force dry, in machine direction (MD) in the range of 20 to 700 N / 5 cm, measured according to EN 29073-3:1992 on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2, a maximum tensile force wet, in machine direction (MD) in the range of 1 to 40 N / 5 cm, measured according to EN 29073-3:1992 on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2 , a maximum tensile force dry, transverse to the machine direction (CD) in the range of 5 to 500 N / 5cm, measured according to EN 29073-3:1992 on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2 , a maximum tensile force wet, transverse to the machine direction (CD) in the range of 1 to 30 N / 5 cm, measured according to EN 29073-3:1992 on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2 , an air permeability of 100 l rrn 2 s -1 up to 5000 I rrr 2 s -1 Measured according to EN ISO 9237:1995 at 1 mbar on a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 100 g / m² 2 .

[0122] A further object of the invention is a method for producing a nonwoven fabric, as defined above and below, in which one (i) provides a fiber composition (a) comprising (a1) man-made cellulose fibers, (a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and (a3) ​​optionally further fibers different from (a1) and (a2), (ii) subjects the fiber composition provided in step (i) to a process for producing a fiber nap, (iii) subjects the fiber nap produced in step (ii) to a thermal process to obtain a bonded nonwoven fabric, (iv) loads the bonded nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iii) with a binder (b), and (v) subjects the nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iv) loaded with the binder (b) to a thermal treatment.

[0123] With regard to the fiber composition provided in step i), full reference is made to the above information on suitable and preferred fibers a1), a2) and a3).

[0124] Preferably, the fibers of the fiber composition provided in step i) have a length in the range of 0.5 to 50.0 mm, particularly preferably 1.0 to 30.0 mm. Specifically, fibers with a length of at most 30.0 mm, and particularly at most 20.0 mm, are used. Fibers of this length are especially suitable for use in a wet-weave process.

[0125] In step ii) of the process according to the invention, the fiber composition provided in step i) is subjected to a process for producing a fiber nap. The nonwovens according to the invention can be, for example, staple fiber nonwovens, spunbond nonwovens, meltblown nonwovens, or wet-laid nonwovens. In a preferred embodiment, in step ii) of the process according to the invention, the fiber composition provided in step i) is subjected to a wet-laid process for producing a nonwoven. In wet-laid nonwoven production, water is used to form fibers into a sheet structure, the so-called wet-laid nonwoven. Processes and devices for producing wet-laid nonwovens are known in principle to those skilled in the art. Wet-laid nonwoven production is generally based on the dewatering of a fiber suspension and subsequent drying. This principle is described, for example, in DE-OS 2655136.In this process, the fibers suspended in water are passed over a sieve and dewatered, with the fibers being deposited on the sieve. This process is called sheet formation. The nonwoven fabric obtained after sheet formation still contains a significant amount of water. Further dewatering can be achieved, for example, by suction, e.g., using a vacuum suction device.

[0126] The resulting product is generally still a loose composite of fibers with residual moisture content, which undergoes one or more further processing steps to obtain a nonwoven fabric in the form of a fiber composite with the desired internal strength. For this purpose, the fiber web produced in step ii) is subjected to thermal treatment in step iii). This treatment serves to further dry and strengthen the nonwoven fabric. The polyvinyl alcohol fibers a2) act as binders for this thermal strengthening.

[0127] The thermal treatment in step iii) can be carried out using known web drying methods, including the use of an oven, belt dryer, rotary / air dryer, drum dryer, infrared heater, hot air blower, microwave source, and the like. At least one thermal treatment step is required, but several of these methods can also be used in combination.

[0128] The treatment temperature and treatment time in step iii) can be chosen depending on the melting point of the polyvinyl alcohol contained in the polyvinyl alcohol fibers a2) and, if present, other binding fibers.

[0129] The temperature during the thermal treatment in step iii) is preferably in the range of 100°C to 300°C, particularly preferably from 110°C to 250°C, and especially from 120°C to 230°C.

[0130] In particular, in step iii) the nonwoven fabric is heated to a temperature above the melting temperature of the polyvinyl alcohol contained in the polyvinyl alcohol fibers a2).

[0131] The treatment in step iii) preferably takes place over a period of 5 seconds to 2 minutes, preferably from 10 seconds to 1 minute.

[0132] In step iv) of the process according to the invention, the nonwoven fabric obtained in step iii) is loaded with a binder b). With regard to the binders used in step iv), reference is made in full to the above information on suitable and preferred binders b). The binder can be applied to the nonwoven fabric using various technologies, preferably by impregnation in a foulard, by spraying, application via a transfer roller, or by printing. Combinations of at least two of these methods can also be used.

[0133] After the binder has been applied, the nonwoven fabric loaded with the binder b) is subjected to a further thermal treatment in step v).

[0134] The thermal treatment in step v) can also be carried out using known web drying methods, preferably selected from ovens, belt dryers, rotary / air dryers, drum dryers, infrared heaters, hot air blowers, microwave sources, and combinations thereof. The temperature during the thermal treatment in step v) is preferably in the range of 50°C to 300°C, particularly preferably from 80°C to 200°C, and especially from 100°C to 150°C.

[0135] Preferably, the treatment in step v) is carried out over a period of 5 seconds to 2 minutes, preferably from 10 seconds to 1 minute.

[0136] Oral dosage form and methods for its manufacture

[0137] Another object of the invention is an oral dosage form which, when used, releases at least one ingredient into the mouth and throat, containing

[0138] A) at least one releaseable ingredient and

[0139] B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined above.

[0140] The ingredient is preferably selected from among luxury goods, pharmaceutical ingredients, flavorings, foods, food supplements, oral and dental care products, including various ingredients and mixtures thereof.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains as the releaseable ingredient A) at least one stimulant, preferably selected from nicotine, caffeine, cocoa, ginseng, taurine, guarana, glucuronolactone, branched-chain amino acid complexes (BCAAs), cannabinoids, kratom and mixtures thereof.

[0142] The oral dosage form according to the invention is specifically an oral nicotine composition. This can be in the form of a tobacco-free or tobacco-containing composition, preferably in the form of a tobacco-free composition. More detailed information on nicotine-containing oral dosage forms can be found below in the section on oral nicotine compositions.

[0143] The oral dosage form according to the invention can contain caffeine as a stimulant. The caffeine can be derived from caffeine-containing natural substances or be synthetically produced. Suitable sources of caffeine include coffee beans, coffee extract, cocoa beans, tea leaves, tea extract, mate leaves, guarana berries, kola nuts, etc.

[0144] The oral dosage form according to the invention can contain cocoa as a stimulant. Cocoa is preferably used in the form of cocoa mass, i.e., cocoa powder or chocolate produced by grinding and rolling roasted cocoa beans freed from shells, skins and germs.

[0145] The oral dosage form according to the invention can contain cannabinoids as a recreational drug. The term cannabinoids encompasses a class of active substances found in hemp, their derivatives, and metabolites that act on the endocannabinoid system in humans. Cannabinoids include, among others, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabicromene. In addition to their use as recreational drugs, cannabinoids can also be used as pharmaceutical agents, for example, in the treatment of neuropathic pain and spasticity, loss of appetite, HIV, nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, and certain forms of epilepsy. In a specific embodiment, a non-psychotropic cannabinoid is used, i.e., a cannabinoid that has no psychotropic effects. Examples of non-psychotropic cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG).The non-psychotropic cannabinoid can be, for example, cannabidiol (CBD), such as the (-)-enantiomer, the (+)-enantiomer, or a racemic mixture of cannabidiol (CBD). Furthermore, the non-psychotropic cannabinoid can be present in the form of industrial hemp, which contains no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or a low THC concentration of 0.5% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the industrial hemp.

[0146] In a further preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains at least one drug substance as the release ingredient A). Suitable drug substances include solid or liquid drugs that can be combined with a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric according to the invention. Liquids are preferred because they can be absorbed or otherwise applied to the substrate by coating. The drug substances can optionally be used together with their own carrier, e.g., microencapsulated. The drug substance can be used as a formulation with conventional excipients. These include, for example, diluents, binders, lubricants, dissolving agents, colorants, flavorings, sweeteners, and other additives such as pH-adjusting compounds, stabilizers, and adsorbents.

[0147] Suitable active pharmaceutical ingredients are:

[0148] Antitussives, such as dextromethorphan hydrobromide, noscapine, codeine phosphate, codeine sulfate and chlorophedianol hydrochloride,

[0149] Antihistamines, such as chlorpheniramine maleate, phenidamine tartrate, pyrilamine maleate, doxylamine succinate and phenyltoloxamine citrate; decongestants, such as phenylephrine hydrochloride, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, pseudoephedrine, ephedrine hydrochloride; ion exchange resins, such as cholestyramine; antipyretics and analgesics, especially NSAIDs, such as acetaminophen, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, nabumetone; appetite suppressants, such as phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride; expectorants, such as guaifenesin; antiarrhythmics, such as N-acetylprocainamide;

[0150] Cholesterol- and lipid-lowering agents, laxatives, vitamins, antacids and proton pump inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, coronary dilators, cerebral dilators, peripheral vasodilators, anti-infectives, psychotropic drugs, psychotropic drugs for manic disorders, stimulants, gastrointestinal sedatives, antidiarrheals, antianginal drugs, vasodilators, antihypertensive drugs, vasoconstrictors, migraine medications, antibiotics, tranquilizers, antipsychotics, tumor drugs, anticoagulants and antithrombotics, hypnotics, sedatives, antimimetics, antiemetics, anticonvulsants, neuromuscular agents, antihyper- and hypoglycemic agents, thyroid medications, diuretics, antispasmodics, uterine relaxants, antiobesity drugs, anabolic steroids, hematopoietic agents, antiasthmatics, expectorants and Mucolytics, antiuric agents, mixtures of two or more of the aforementioned drug substances.

[0151] In a further preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains at least one flavoring substance as the ingredient A) to be released.

[0152] Suitable flavorings include, for example, flavorings, sweeteners, and acids. Suitable flavorings can be selected from a wide variety of natural oils, synthetic oils, extracts, or essences. These include, for example, spearmint oil, peppermint oil, wintergreen oil (methyl salicylate), cinnamon oil, menthol, citrus oil, clove oil, bay leaf oil, anise oil, eucalyptus oil, thyme oil, cedar needle oil, nutmeg oil, sage oil, bitter almond oil, and cassia oil, as well as mixtures thereof. Other suitable flavorings include essences of apple, apricot, banana, blueberry, cherry, grape, grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, pear, peach, pineapple, plum, raspberry, strawberry, and the like. Vanilla and vanillin are also suitable flavorings.Aldehydes and esters can also be used as flavoring agents, such as cinnamon acetate, cinnamon aldehyde, citral diethyl acetal, dihydrocarvyl acetate, eugenyl formate, acetaldehyde (apple); benzaldehyde (cherry, almond); anisaldehyde (licorice, anise); cinnamaldehyde (cinnamon); alpha-citral (lemon, lime); beta-citral (lemon, lime); decanal (orange, lemon); ethyl vanillin (vanilla, cream); heliotropin, i.e., piperonal (vanilla, cream); vanillin (vanilla, cream); alpha-amyl cinnamaldehyde (spicy fruit flavors); butyraldehyde (butter, cheese); valcraldehyde (butter, cheese); citronellal; decannal (citrus fruits); aldehyde C8 (citrus fruits); aldehyde C9 (citrus fruits). Aldehyde C12 (citrus fruits); 2-Ethylbutyraldehyde (berries); Hexenal, i.e. trans-2 (berries); Tolylaldehyde (cherry, almond); Veratraldehyde (vanilla); 2,6-Dimethyl-5-Heptenal, i.e. Melonal (melon); 2,6-Dimethyloctanal (green fruits); and 2-Dodecenal (citrus, mandarin) and mixtures thereof.

[0153] In a further preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains at least one sweetener as the release ingredient A). Suitable sweeteners are selected from sugars such as sucrose, glucose, dextrose, invertose, fructose and mixtures thereof, saccharin and salts thereof, e.g. the sodium and calcium salts, cyclamic acid and salts thereof, e.g. the sodium and calcium salts, acesulfame K, dipeptide sweeteners such as aspartame and alitame, chlorinated sugar derivatives such as sucralose, dihydrochalcone, glycyrrhin, Stevia rebaudiana (stevioside), sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol, and mixtures thereof.In a further preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains as the release ingredient A) at least one food acid, preferably selected from citric acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid, tartaric acid, adipic acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, glucono-delta-lactone and mixtures thereof.

[0154] In a further preferred embodiment, the oral dosage form according to the invention contains as the ingredient to be released A) at least one foodstuff, food supplement, oral and dental care product, various ingredients thereof and mixtures thereof.

[0155] A particular embodiment of an oral dosage form according to the invention is an oral nicotine composition comprising

[0156] A1) Nicotine,

[0157] A2) optionally at least one ingredient different from A1), preferably selected from flavorings, pH regulators, rheology modifiers, wetting agents and mixtures thereof, [thickeners are listed as a special form of rheology modifiers.]

[0158] B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined above.

[0159] The oral nicotine formulation can be in the form of a tobacco-free or tobacco-containing formulation, preferably in the form of a tobacco-free formulation.

[0160] Tobacco-containing oral nicotine formulations contain at least one tobacco material. For the purposes of this invention, "tobacco material" refers to fibrous material made from tobacco leaves or parts of leaves, such as leaves and stems. The leaves and leaf parts can be finely cut (compressed), for example, by grinding, cutting, shredding, or threshing, and the leaf parts can be mixed into the tobacco material in specific proportions. "Tobacco" refers to all parts, such as leaves, stems, and stalks, of any member of the genus Nicotiana. The tobacco used in the oral nicotine formulation according to the invention can be whole, shredded, threshed, cut, ground, dried, aged, fermented, or otherwise treated, for example, granulated or encapsulated.

[0161] The oral nicotine compositions according to the invention can contain nicotine in the form of tobacco, which has been added to the carrier in the form of a tobacco extract. The tobacco extract can be obtained, for example, by soaking tobacco material in water or alcohol. Alternatively or additionally, tobacco fibers can be incorporated into the carrier. Tobacco-free oral nicotine compositions are preferred.

[0162] Nicotine can be used in the form of a nicotine base or a nicotine salt, such as nicotine hydrochloride, nicotine dihydrochloride, nicotine monotartrate, nicotine ditartrate, nicotine ditartrate dihydrate, nicotine sulfate, nicotine zinc chloride monohydrate, nicotine salicylate, or nicotine benzoate. Nicotine can also be used bound to an ion exchange resin, for example, as nicotine polacrilex. The nicotine can be derived from tobacco material or be synthetically produced.

[0163] Oral nicotine formulations can be placed, for example, under the upper lip (labially), in the cheek (buccally), or under the tongue (sublingually), and the ingredients are absorbed either through the oral mucosa or the gastrointestinal tract. When used, the entire product is generally contained within the oral cavity. The oral nicotine formulations according to the invention are not intended to be swallowed.

[0164] The carrier B) can be impregnated and / or coated with nicotine A1) and optionally at least one other ingredient A2). The coating can be applied to one or both surfaces of the nonwoven carrier. Combinations of impregnation and coating are also possible. For example, an oral nicotine formulation can be impregnated with nicotine and a first flavoring and coated with a second flavoring. This allows the initial taste impression to differ from the later taste impression.

[0165] The oral nicotine composition is preferably in the form of a thin, flexible product. The product is shaped to fit well in the consumer's mouth and adapt to the shape of the oral cavity, making it comfortable and discreet to use. The carrier according to the invention enables rapid release of the ingredients. This rapid release is facilitated by the product's large, exposed surface area relative to its volume. Furthermore, the carrier avoids the flow behavior of conventional smokeless tobacco products in pouches or the grittiness that can occur with tobacco-free products in pouches containing particulate filler material, such as microcrystalline cellulose particles. These effects give the product a pleasant mouthfeel.

[0166] The nonwoven fabric and the oral nicotine composition according to the invention are biodegradable and / or compostable. If the product is disposed of on the ground after use, it can decompose completely over time. Thus, it is less harmful to the environment than conventional products.

[0167] The choice of nicotine dosage form (A1) can be adapted to the desired type of use, e.g., the intended storage conditions for the product and / or the desired release rate. Nicotine in the form of nicotine base, for example, allows for essentially immediate release and good absorption through the mucous membranes, but may have a shorter shelf life due to oxidation and volatility. Therefore, the nicotine in the product can be provided in a form other than nicotine base.

[0168] Oral nicotine formulations may contain a pH regulator as an ingredient, for example, to ensure that the nicotine is released in sufficient quantity as a nicotine base to allow satisfactory absorption through the mucous membranes when the product is placed in the consumer's oral cavity. pH regulators serve to adjust and control the pH of an aqueous liquid in which they are dissolved, such as saliva. Examples of suitable pH regulators include sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, and any combination thereof.The amount of pH regulator can be selected such that the oral nicotine composition, when immersed in pure water, has a pH value of preferably at least 6.0, particularly preferably at least 7.0, such as a pH value in the range of about 7.0 to about 10.0 or a pH value in the range of about 8.0 to about 9.0, specifically a pH value in the range of about 8.3 to about 8.7.

[0169] The pH value is determined by placing a 5 g ± 0.1 g sample into a 150 ml glass vial to which 100 ml of deionized water is added. The immersed sample is stirred for 5 to 10 minutes, taking care to adjust the stirring speed to avoid the formation of a vortex. The pH value is then measured by immersing a pH measuring electrode (pH single-rod electrode) into the solution.

[0170] The oral nicotine composition preferably contains nicotine in an amount of 1 mg to 25 mg, particularly preferably 1 mg to 10 mg, and especially 2 mg to 8 mg, based on the total weight of the oral nicotine composition.

[0171] The oral nicotine formulation may contain at least one flavoring agent as an ingredient. Suitable flavoring agents are those mentioned above.

[0172] The oral nicotine composition preferably has a thickness of 0.2 to 5 mm, particularly preferably 0.5 to 4 mm, e.g., 0.8 to 3 mm, or e.g., 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, or e.g., 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm, or e.g., 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm. The oral nicotine composition preferably has a thickness of 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0173] Another object of the invention is a method for producing an oral dosage form, in which, in a method for producing a nonwoven fabric comprising steps i) to v) as previously described, one additionally vi) loads the nonwoven fabric with at least one ingredient, vii) subjects the nonwoven fabric loaded with an ingredient obtained in step vi) to shaping.

[0174] Preferably, the shaping in step vii) includes punching or cutting the nonwoven fabric.

[0175] Another object of the invention is an oral dosage form obtainable by a method comprising steps i) to vii), as previously described.

[0176] Another object of the invention is the use of a nonwoven fabric, as defined above, as a carrier for oral dosage forms, in particular oral nicotine compositions.

[0177] Preferred embodiments of the invention

[0178] 1. Nonwoven fabric comprising a) a fiber composition comprising a1) man-made cellulose fibers, a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and a3) optionally further fibers different from a1) and a2), b) at least one bio-based polymeric binder different from a1), a2) and a3).

[0179] 2. Nonwoven fabric according to embodiment 1, wherein the man-made cellulose fibers a1) are selected from regenerated cellulose fibers, derivatized cellulose fibers and mixtures thereof, preferably the man-made cellulose fibers a1) are selected from viscose fibers, lyocell fibers, modal fibers, cellulose acetate fibers and mixtures thereof, in particular the man-made cellulose fibers a1) comprise viscose fibers or consist of viscose fibers.

[0180] 3. Nonwoven fabric according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein component a1) contains fibers with a fineness in the range of 0.1 to 30.0 dtex, preferably 1.0 to 12.0 dtex, in particular 1.2 to 3.3 dtex.

[0181] 4. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) have one or more of the following properties: a melting point (T m) of at least 150°C, preferably at least 170°C, in particular at least 190°C, a degree of saponification in the range of 91.00 to 99.99 mol%, preferably 97.00 to 99.99 mol%, in particular 98.00 to 99.98 mol%, soluble in water at a temperature of at least 30°C, preferably at least 60°C. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the fiber composition a) comprises at least one further fiber a3), selected from further biodegradable and / or compostable fibers, preferably selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers, thermoplastic starch fibers, fibers of natural polymers different from these, biodegradable and / or compostable polyester fibers, polyesteramide fibers and mixtures thereof, in particular selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers and mixtures thereof.Nonwoven fabric according to embodiment 5, wherein the fiber composition a) comprises at least one further biodegradable and / or compostable fiber a3), selected from fibers of cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, soy, palm, coconut, wool, silk, chitin, chitosan, poly(ethylene succinate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate) fibers, poly(ethylene adipate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) fibers, polyhydroxyacetic acid fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene sebacate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) fibers, poly(tetramethylene succinate) fibers, polycaprolactone fibers, polypropriolactone fibers, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) fibers, Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) fibers, and mixtures thereof. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric binder b) comprises at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups and / or at least one polyelectrolyte with anionic / anionic groups.Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric binder b) comprises at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups, preferably selected from chitosan, aminoacetylated polyvinyl alcohol, poly-(L)-lysine, poly-(L)-arginine, poly(ornithine), basic gelatin, cationically modified starch, cationically modified amylose, cationically modified amylopectin, cationically modified cellulose, cationically modified guar gum, cationically modified gum arabic, cationically modified gum karaya, cationically modified gum guar, cationically modified dextran, cationically modified pullulan, cationically modified xanthan gum, cationically modified curdlan, cationically modified gellan, cationically modified carubin, cationically modified agarose, and acid addition salts and quaternization products and mixtures thereof. 9.Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric binder comprises b) citrus fruit peels, preferably orange peels.

[0182] 10. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the weight ratio of a1 : a2 is in a range of 60 : 40 to 99.9 : 0.1, preferably from 85 : 15 to 97.0 : 3.0, based on the total weight of components a1) and a2).

[0183] 11. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the weight ratio of a : b is in a range of 60 : 40 to 99.0 : 1 ,0, preferably from 85 : 15 to 98.0 : 2,0, based on the total weight of components a) and b).

[0184] 12. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein it is a wet-fiber nonwoven fabric.

[0185] 13. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wet strength of the laid fiber pile before impregnation with the binder is in a range of 1.0 to 80.0 N.

[0186] 14. Oral dosage form which, when used, releases at least one ingredient into the mouth and throat, containing

[0187] A) at least one releaseable ingredient and

[0188] B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 13.

[0189] 15. Oral nicotine composition, comprehensive

[0190] A1) Nicotine,

[0191] A2) optionally at least one ingredient different from A1), preferably selected from flavourings, pH regulators, rheology modifiers, wetting agents and mixtures thereof.

[0192] B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of embodiments 1 to 13.

[0193] 16. Oral nicotine composition according to embodiment 15 in the form of a tobacco-free or tobacco-containing composition, preferably in the form of a tobacco-free composition.

[0194] 17. Method for producing a nonwoven fabric, as in one of the embodiments

[0195] 1 to 13 defined, wherein one i) provides a fiber composition a) comprising a1) man-made cellulose fibers, a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and a3) optionally other fibers different from a1) and a2), ii) subjects the fiber composition provided in step i) to a process for producing a fiber nap, iii) subjects the fiber nap produced in step ii) to a thermal process to obtain a bonded nonwoven, iv) loads the bonded nonwoven obtained in step iii) with a binder b), v) subjects the nonwoven obtained in step iv) loaded with the binder b) to a thermal treatment.

[0196] 18. Method for producing an oral dosage form as defined in one of embodiments 14 to 16, wherein in a method according to embodiment 17, one additionally vi) loads the nonwoven fabric with at least one ingredient, vii) subjects the nonwoven fabric loaded with an ingredient obtained in step vi) to shaping.

[0197] 19. Method according to embodiment 18, wherein the shaping in step vii) comprises punching or cutting the nonwoven fabric.

[0198] 20. Oral dosage form obtainable by a method as defined in embodiment 18 or 19.

[0199] 21. Use of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any of embodiments 1 to 13 as a carrier for oral dosage forms, in particular oral nicotine compositions.

[0200] The invention is explained by means of the following examples, without being limited to them. EXAMPLES

[0201] I.) Measurement methods

[0202] The thickness of the nonwovens in mm was determined according to EN ISO 9073-2:1996 "Determination of the thickness of textile fabrics". The measurement was carried out at a pressure of 0.00125 MPa (12.5 mbar) with a punch diameter of 35.7 mm. The mean value of 6 measurements was calculated.

[0203] Determining the area-related mass (area weight, grammage) in g / m² 2 The procedure was carried out according to EN 29073-1 :1992. The sample size was 200 x 250 mm, and the samples were punched out.

[0204] The measurement of air permeability (gas permeability perpendicular to the material plane in I m') 2 s' 1 The air permeability of textile fabrics was determined according to EN ISO 9237:1995. Air permeability was measured at 1 mbar. The mean value of 6 measurements was calculated.

[0205] The maximum tensile strength (MTS) in Newtons and the maximum tensile strain (MSS) in percent were determined according to EN 29073-3:1992 on test specimens measuring 200 mm x 50 mm. The tensile strength / strain behavior was measured in both the rolling direction (MD) and the counter-rolling direction (CD), and in both dry and wet conditions. This resulted in four measurements for each test: (MD, dry), (CD, dry), (MD, wet), and (CD, wet). For each measurement, four specimens were punched, three of which were measured, and an average was calculated (one specimen served as a reference sample).

[0206] Nonwovens were produced on a technical scale using a wet nonwoven fabric machine from short-cut fibers.

[0207] Fiber material:

[0208] 90% viscose fibers, 1.7 dtex, length 5 mm

[0209] 10% polyvinyl alcohol fibers, 1 dtex, length 4 mm

[0210] At a fiber concentration of 0.5 wt%, various skeins (batches) of 2050 m length and 2000 mm width were produced at a web formation rate of 45 m / min. The target basis weight was 100 g / m². 2 The fiber nap was dewatered and dried and consolidated on a belt dryer at 230°C. The resulting nonwoven fabric was then impregnated with a binder. The weight ratio of fiber composition to binder (based on the solids content) was 90:10 wt% (based on the total weight of fiber material and binder). 24PA0042WQ

[0211] 33

[0212] An aqueous dispersion of a bio-based polymeric binder, derived from a polyelectrolyte complex and citrus peels, was used as the binding agent. This polymeric binder is biodegradable and compostable. The impregnated nonwoven fabric was then subjected to further drying at 140°C. The resulting nonwoven fabric exhibits a characteristic fiber orientation, including a machine direction (MD) and a cross direction (CD).

[0213] Table 1 below shows the measured values ​​for the obtained nonwoven fabric.

[0214] (MD) = in machine direction, (CD) = perpendicular to the machine direction

[0215] III.) Storage Tests The following storage tests were conducted to assess the biodegradability of the nonwoven fabrics. For these tests, samples of the aforementioned nonwoven fabric measuring 30 x 10 mm were cut. To prepare oral dosage forms, a portion of the samples was impregnated with 1.25 mg of nicotine per sample. 50 g of moist potting soil (approx. 35% moisture) was weighed out on a laboratory balance and placed in a 10 x 10 x 4 cm polystyrene tray. 100 g of tap water was poured into each tray so that the soil was very moist, but no water was standing in the tray. Six samples were placed on the moist soil in each tray and lightly pressed down. After approximately 15 minutes, the samples in the trays were checked again, and any excess water was drained off. Two trays were then packed in a 20 x 32 cm LDPE bag with a zip closure. The samples were stored at room temperature or at 40°C.To document the decay, a photograph was taken and examined every week under identical conditions.

[0216] Experiment series 1:

[0217] Samples without nicotine, stored at 20°C

[0218] Result: After one week, the samples show a distinct brown coloration with slight degradation. After two weeks, degradation is clearly visible (approximately 20%). After three weeks, only a thin film of the samples remains on the soil. After four weeks, the samples have completely degraded.

[0219] Experiment series 2:

[0220] Samples without nicotine, stored at 40°C

[0221] Result: After one week, the samples show a distinct brown discoloration with slight degradation. After two weeks, degradation and mold growth are clearly visible (approximately 30% degradation). After three weeks, the samples are completely degraded.

[0222] Experiment series 3:

[0223] Samples containing nicotine, stored at 20°C

[0224] Results: After one week, the samples show a distinct brown discoloration with slight degradation. After two weeks, degradation is clearly visible (approximately 20% degradation). After three weeks, approximately 50% of the samples have degraded, and after four weeks, 80%. After six weeks, complete degradation has occurred.

[0225] Experiment series 4:

[0226] Samples containing nicotine, stored at 40°C

[0227] Result: After one week, the samples show a distinct brown discoloration with slight degradation. After two weeks, degradation is clearly visible (approximately 30% degradation). After three weeks, approximately 80% of the samples have degraded, and after four weeks, the samples have completely disappeared.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Nonwoven fabric comprising a) a fiber composition comprising a1) man-made cellulose fibers, a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and a3) optionally further fibers different from a1) and a2), b) at least one bio-based polymeric binder different from a1), a2) and a3).

2. Nonwoven fabric according to claim 1, wherein the man-made cellulose fibers a1) are selected from regenerated cellulose fibers, derivatized cellulose fibers and mixtures thereof, preferably the man-made cellulose fibers a1) are selected from viscose fibers, lyocell fibers, modal fibers, cellulose acetate fibers and mixtures thereof, in particular the man-made cellulose fibers a1) comprise viscose fibers or consist of viscose fibers.

3. Nonwoven fabric according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the component a1) contains fibers with a fineness in the range of 0.1 to 30.0 dtex, preferably 1.0 to 12.0 dtex, in particular 1.2 to 3.3 dtex.

4. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyvinyl alcohols contained in component a2) have one or more of the following properties: a melting point (T m ) of at least 150°C, preferably at least 170°C, in particular at least 190°C, a degree of saponification in the range of 91.00 to 99.99 mol%, preferably 97.00 to 99.99 mol%, in particular 98.00 to 99.98 mol%, soluble in water at a temperature of at least 30°C, preferably at least 60°C.

5. Nonwoven fabric according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fiber composition a) comprises at least one further fiber a3), selected from further biodegradable and / or compostable fibers, preferably selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers, thermoplastic starch fibers, fibers of natural polymers different from these, biodegradable and / or compostable polyester fibers, polyesteramide fibers and mixtures thereof, in particular selected from cellulose-containing natural fibers and mixtures thereof.

6. Nonwoven fabric according to claim 5, wherein the fiber composition a) comprises at least one further biodegradable and / or compostable fiber a3), selected from fibers of cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, soy, palm, coconut, wool, silk, chitin, chitosan, poly(ethylene succinate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate) fibers, poly(ethylene adipate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) fibers, polyhydroxyacetic acid fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene sebacate) fibers, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) fibers, poly(tetramethylene succinate) fibers, polycaprolactone fibers, polypropriolactone fibers, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) fibers, Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) fibers, and mixtures thereof.

7. Nonwoven fabric according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the polymeric binder b) comprises at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups and / or at least one polyelectrolyte with anionic / anionic groups, wherein preferably the polymeric binder b) comprises at least one polyelectrolyte with cationogenic / cationic groups selected from chitosan, aminoacetylated polyvinyl alcohol, poly-(L)-lysine, poly-(L)-arginine, poly(ornithine), basic gelatin, cationically modified starch, cationically modified amylose, cationically modified amylopectin, cationically modified cellulose, cationically modified guarana, cationically modified gum arabic, cationically modified gum karaya, cationically modified gum guar, cationically modified dextran, cationically modified pullulan, cationically modified xanthan gum, cationically modified curdlan, cationically modified gellan,cationically modified carubin, cationically modified agarose and acid addition salts and quaternization products and mixtures thereof.

8. Nonwoven fabric according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the polymeric binder comprises b) citrus fruit peels, preferably orange peels.

9. Oral dosage form which, when used, releases at least one ingredient into the mouth and throat, containing A) at least one releaseable ingredient and B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Oral nicotine composition, comprehensive A1) Nicotine, A2) optionally at least one ingredient different from A1), preferably selected from flavourings, pH regulators, rheology modifiers, wetting agents and mixtures thereof. B) a carrier comprising or consisting of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. Oral nicotine composition according to claim 10 in the form of a tobacco-free or tobacco-containing composition, preferably in the form of a tobacco-free composition.

12. A method for producing a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein one (i) provides a fiber composition (a) comprising (a1) man-made cellulose fibers, (a2) polyvinyl alcohol fibers, and (a3) ​​optionally further fibers different from (a1) and (a2), (ii) subjects the fiber composition provided in step (i) to a process for producing a fiber nap, (iii) subjects the fiber nap produced in step (ii) to a thermal process to obtain a bonded nonwoven fabric, (iv) loads the bonded nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iii) with a binder (b), (v) subjects the nonwoven fabric obtained in step (iv) loaded with the binder (b) to a thermal treatment.

13. A method for producing an oral dosage form as defined in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein in a method according to claim 12 one additionally vi) loads the nonwoven fabric with at least one ingredient, vii) subjects the nonwoven fabric loaded with an ingredient obtained in step vi) to shaping.

14. Oral dosage form obtainable by a method as defined in claim 12 or 13.

15. Use of a nonwoven fabric as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, as a carrier for oral dosage forms, in particular oral nicotine compositions.

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