A water-soluble ECO-friendly film and method of preparation thereof

Abstract

A novel water-soluble packaging film has been developed using a biodegradable composition comprising guar gum, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-1), Aloe barbadensis extract, glycerin, and sorbitol, with deionized water as the solvent. The ingredients are mixed, heated, cast, and dried under controlled conditions using a solution casting method to produce a semi-transparent, light yellowish, smooth-surfaced film. This environmentally friendly film dissolves completely in water within 45 minutes at 40°C, leaving no harmful residues, making it suitable for sustainable packaging applications. The film demonstrates optimal load-bearing capacity for items weighing up to 500 g and maintains its texture and integrity during extended storage. This innovation provides a promising eco-friendly alternative to conventional single-use plastic packaging, contributing to the reduction of plastic pollution.

Description

[0001] FORM 2

[0002] THE PATENT ACT, 1970

[0003] (39 of 1970) & The Patent Rules, 2003

[0004] COMPLETE SPECIFICATION

[0005] (See section 10 and rule 13)

[0006] 1. TITLE OF INVENTION

[0007] A WATER-SOLUBLE ECO-FRIENDLY FILM AND METHOD OF PREPARATION THEREOF

[0008] 2. APPLICANT:

[0009] Name: Bangaru Vaishnavi

[0010] Nationality: Indian

[0011] Address for communication: Plot No 338, Devendernagar, Pragathi Nagar, Bachupally, Rangareddy, AP-500090, India.

[0012] 3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION:

[0013] The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:

[0014] Signature Not Verified Digitally Signed. Name: Bangaru Vaishnavi Date: 26-Jan-2025 11:09:21 Reason: Patent Billing Location: DELHI4. FIELD OF INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to water-soluble sustainable packaging films for eco-friendly packaging applications including personal care products like soaps and consumables like dry fruits. The invention aims to develop water-soluble films with optimal flexibility while preserving the appearance and odor of the packaged items over prolonged periods making them ideal for singleuse applications. The invention focuses on a novel film prepared using the natural sources including Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), Guar gum, Sorbitol, Sodium alginate, Aloe barbadensis and Glycerin to create a novel packaging film with superior water solubility, chemical resistance and mechanical strength. Importantly, the novel film of present invention also benefits aquatic ecosystems, as they dissolve harmlessly in water and can serve as a nutritional source for aquatic organisms, further enhancing their environmental value. The film of the invention provides a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic packaging and serves as environmentally safe and practical solution for industries striving for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions.

[0016] 5. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION WITH REGARD TO THE DRAWBACK ASSOCIATED WITH KNOWN ART

[0017] With the increasing global plastic pollution and significant harm caused to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem by existing packaging materials, there is an increased demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. Conventional packaging materials, while effective for packaging possesses several environmental concerns because of their non-biodegradability and water-insolubility causing long-term accumulation in natural ecosystems.

[0018] It is noteworthy, that in recent years, there is growing demand for developing water-soluble packaging solutions that readily dissolve harmlessly in water, reducing their environmental impact and promoting the aquatic life. Currently, the market for packaging films is dominated by various types of materials like synthetic films, biodegradable films and water-soluble films. While these materials have found significant commercial utility, they exhibit several drawbacks, particularly in the context of chemical resistance, durability, and environmental sustainability.

[0019] Synthetic plastic films (e.g., Polyethylene Terephthalate PET and Low-Density Polyethylene LDPE) are widely used for their durability and cost-effectiveness. However, synthetic films such as polyethylene and polypropylene are non-biodegradable, contributing heavily to environmentalpollution. These materials persist in ecosystems for hundreds of years, disrupting ecological balance and harming aquatic and terrestrial life. Additionally, water-soluble films such as Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based films, a popular alternative, offer water solubility and transparency. However, they exhibit limitations such as: i) Reduced chemical resistance when exposed to reactive chemicals, leading to performance degradation ii) Poor long-term storage stability, with issues such as clouding and reduced sealing properties and iii) Lack of eco-friendly degradation in natural aquatic ecosystems. On the other hand, biodegradable films (e.g., Poly lactic acid (PLA), starch-based films) address the issue of plastic persistence, however their degradation often requires controlled environmental conditions, such as industrial composting facilities, which are not universally accessible.

[0020] Thus, the existing packaging materials while suitable for certain applications, fail to address the growing demand for sustainability, high performance and eco-friendly nature. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need for packaging films that offer superior water solubility and chemical resistance for a variety of applications; degrade harmlessly in natural environments, including aquatic ecosystems, without leaving harmful residues and maintain high mechanical strength, flexibility, and durability for practical use.

[0021] The present invention focuses on the development of a sustainable, water-soluble packaging film derived from natural materials such as guar gum, Aloe barbadensis, and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-1). This novel solution provides an eco-friendly, high-performance alternative to conventional packaging materials, promoting sustainability while meeting industry demands. And these novel films are completely soluble in aquatic environments providing nutritional benefits to aquatic organisms. The novel films of the invention not only address the challenges of plastic pollution but also offer a sustainable circular economy solution as single use packaging for food, personal care products and other industrial uses.

[0022] 6. OBJECT OF INVENTION

[0023] Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a water-soluble film which is suitable for packaging, and which exhibit excellent water-solubility without any residual sediments in aqueous solution.The primary object of the present invention is to provide a novel water-soluble packaging film formulated using natural and eco-friendly ingredients such as guar gum, Aloe barbadensis, sodium alginate and hydroxyethyl cellulose offering a superior water solubility, flexibility and mechanical strength for sustainable packaging applications.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to provide a packaging film that is not only water-soluble and eco-friendly but also capable of preserving the packaged goods like personal care products, consumables and food items over prolonged periods.

[0025] Yet another object of invention is to prepare a water-soluble film in a cost-effective manner using solution casting method.

[0026] A further object of the invention is to evaluate the mechanical, physical and moisture barrier properties, ensuring their durability and functional suitability for packaging applications.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to evaluate the solubility of prepared films in water making it a source of nutrition for aquatic organisms.

[0028] This and other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description hereinafter.

[0029] 7. STATEMENT OF INVENTION

[0030] The present invention discloses a novel approach for the preparation and application of water-soluble film consisting of natural ingredients such as guar gum, Aloe barbadensis, sodium alginate, sorbitol and hydroxy ethyl cellulose, resulting in a product i.e., film with improved water-solubility and flexibility.

[0031] Further the invention discloses the novel film prepared is completely transparent, odorless, and flexible in nature which are crucial properties required for packaging application.

[0032] Further the invention discloses a solution casting method for the preparation of novel films prepared by heating the pre-casting solution mixture at a temperature of 80°C.

[0033] Furthermore, the invention showed that prepared novel films are completely soluble in water without any residual sediments and turbidity which is important to support aquatic life.The invention provides an innovative, water-soluble film as safe and effective packaging solution as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastic packaging materials.

[0034] 8. A SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0035] Accordingly, the present invention provides a novel method for the preparation and application of water-soluble film as sustainable packaging material.

[0036] In an embodiment, the invention utilizes natural ingredients such as guar gum, Aloe barbadensis, sodium alginate, sorbitol and hydroxyethyl cellulose for the preparation of novel film to improve the water-soluble efficacy.

[0037] In an embodiment, in the present invention the synergistic blend of pre-casting formulation is heated to temperature of 80°C to ensure complete dissolution of the mixture and proper mixing. In an embodiment of the present invention, the films were casted using solution casting method and then allowed to air dry completely at room temperature. After drying, films were peeled off using a smooth, non-abrasive tool like scraper to ensure a clean and intact structure without damaging film integrity.

[0038] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the prepared water-soluble films containing Formulation Fl demonstrate good transparency, mechanical, physical properties indicating their potential application in packaging industry.

[0039] In an embodiment of the invention, the prepared novel films showed excellent water solubility when immersed in water, dissolving completely within 12 hours without any turbidity or residues demonstrating their high efficiency and suitability for eco-friendly packaging applications.

[0040] 9. A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0041] Table 1: Visual and Mechanical properties of Prepared Water-Soluble Films

[0042] Figure 1. Water-Soluble composite Films prepared using solvent casting technique

[0043] Figure 2. Time dependent dissolution rate of water-soluble composite films in water at temperature 40°C A) Dissolution at Time 0 min B) Partial Dissolution of the film at Time 15 min C) Complete dissolution of film at Time 45 min.10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION WITH REFERENCE TO DRAWING / EXAMPLES

[0044] The present invention pertains to a novel water-soluble film that serves as a cost-effective sustainable alternative to conventional packaging materials.

[0045] The novel formulation of the present invention demonstrates excellent water-solubility properties as evidenced by water solubility tests enhancing its suitability as an eco-friendly packaging solution.

[0046] In the following detailed description, the invention is explained with reference to specific embodiments, including the method of preparation of the films, experimental studies and water-solubility experiments. The examples provided in the invention clearly represent preparation process provide insight into the potential applications and benefits of this innovative films positioning them as a viable alternative to conventional plastics in various plastic industries. EXAMPLES

[0047] The following examples are given by way of illustration and therefore should not be construed to limit the scope of present invention.

[0048] EXAMPLE 1

[0049] PRODUCTION OF WATER-SOLUBLE PACKAGING FILM

[0050] To prepare water-soluble films of the present invention, initially a homogenous film-forming solution is prepared. Guar gum (1.1g) and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-1) (1.01g) are selected as the primary polymeric components due to their excellent film-forming capabilities and water solubility. These polymers are dissolved in deionized water under continuous stirring at room temperature to create a uniform base solution. The stirring process is carried out for 1-2 hours to ensure the polymers are fully hydrated and dispersed. To enhance the flexibility and mechanical properties of the film, a suitable plasticizer glycerin (10 drops) and sorbitol (0.25 g) is added in precise proportions. Most importantly, Aloe barbadensis (10 ml) is incorporated into the mixture, contributing to the film’s smooth texture and improving its overall stability (Table 1). This solution is gently heated to 50-80°C to enhance the solubility of the components and achieve a homogenous mixture.EXAMPLE 2

[0051] SOLUTION CASTING METHOD FOR PRODUCING WATER-SOLUBLE FILM Once the film-forming solution is prepared, it is poured onto a flat, non-stick surface like a glass or Teflon plate. Using a casting blade, the solution is spread evenly across the surface to achieve the desired film thickness. Uniform spreading is crucial to ensure consistent mechanical properties throughout the film. The cast solution is then left to dry in a controlled environment, typically at room temperature, to allow water evaporation. The drying process typically takes 12-24 hours, depending on environmental conditions and the thickness of the film. Care is taken to avoid any cracks or imperfections that could compromise the film's integrity.

[0052] After drying, the film is carefully peeled from the casting surface and cut into desired shapes or sizes using precision cutting tools. The water-soluble films are conditioned in a controlled humidity environment (50-60% relative humidity) for 24-48 hours to stabilize their mechanical properties. This step ensures the film maintains its flexibility and durability during handling and use. The final product is a biodegradable, water-soluble film that is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and designed specifically for applications like single-use packaging of items such as soaps, dry fruits, or other solid products. These films provide a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic, offering an environmentally conscious solution that dissolves harmlessly in water.

[0053] EXAMPLE 3

[0054] VISIBLE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF WATER-SOLUBLE FILMS

[0055] The mechanical properties of the prepared water-soluble films were evaluated qualitatively using simple and practical methods. Flexibility was assessed by repeatedly folding a small piece of the film (3 cm x 3 cm) along the same line until cracks or breaks appeared. The films exhibited excellent flexibility, withstanding 20-25 folds without breaking, making them suitable for packaging applications requiring frequent bending and handling. Tensile strength was qualitatively evaluated by manually stretching a strip ( 1 cm x 5 cm) until it tore. The films demonstrated good resistance to tearing, with those containing lower glycerin content offering higher tensile strength but reduced flexibility (Table 1). Tear resistance was tested by making a small cut on the film edge and manually propagating the tear. The films showed good resistance to tearing, with uniform samples performing consistently better.EXAMPLE 4

[0056] SURFACE TEXTURE AND STRENGTH OF WATER-SOLUBLE FILMS

[0057] Surface texture and strength were inspected by visually assessing and manually rubbing the films to check for smoothness, abrasion resistance, and peeling. The films had smooth, uniform surfaces without cracks or flaking, with Aloe barbadensis enhanced samples showing a glossy finish and light creamy in color. The load-bearing capacity was tested using a simple compression method, where weights (e.g., books) were gradually applied to the films. They withstood up to 500 g without significant deformation, indicating sufficient strength for lightweight packaging applications. Overall, the films demonstrated excellent flexibility, moderate tensile and tear resistance, smooth surface integrity, and adequate load-bearing capacity, confirming their potential as a sustainable and durable packaging material for lightweight items like soaps and dry fruits. EXAMPLE 5

[0058] EVALUATION OF WATER-SOLUBLE PROPERTIES OF PREPARED FILMS

[0059] The time-dependent water solubility test for the prepared water-soluble films was performed to evaluate their dissolution rate and suitability for single-use packaging applications. Uniform film samples (2 cm x 2 cm) were cut and weighed to determine their initial dry mass (Mo). Each sample was immersed in 50 mL of distilled water at temperature 40°C in a 100 mL beaker, and the timer was started immediately upon immersion. The water was gently stirred using a glass rod to ensure even exposure to the film. At regular time intervals (e.g., 0 min, 15 min, and 45 min), the remaining undissolved residue was filtered out using pre-weighed filter paper. The residue was room dried at 45 °C until a constant weight was achieved, and its mass (Mt) was recorded.

[0060] The percentage of solubility was calculated using the formula: Solubility (%) = (Mo-Mt / Mo) ×100. The observations revealed that the films started to swell immediately upon immersion and progressively dissolved over time. Complete dissolution was achieved within 45 minutes. For instance, a film sample weighing 0.50 g showed an 80% solubility at 15 min and 100% solubility at 45 min, leaving no residue. This behavior highlights the uniformity and efficiency of the films in water environement. The results confirm that the prepared films are highly suitable for environmentally friendly single-use packaging applications, as they rapidly dissolve in waterwithout leaving harmful residues. These properties make them an excellent sustainable alternative to conventional plastic films.

[0061] EXAMPLE 6

[0062] APPLICATIONS OF THE INVENTION

[0063] The water-soluble packaging film as mentioned in the present invention can be used to make laminated film on the support member. The laminated film can be produced by casting the abovedescribed film casting solution of Example 1 on a support member.

[0064] The water-soluble packaging film may be used for example as film for packaging goods such as chemicals, soaps, detergents, agrochemicals, toys, non-perishable food items and pharmaceuticals etc.,

[0065] The present invention provides a water-soluble packaging film capable of packaging chemicals with good flexibility without offensive odors over a long period of time.

[0066] The present invention provides a water-soluble packaging film which can achieve excellent water-solubility, excellent visibility and chemical resistance.

[0067] EXAMPLE 7

[0068] SCALABILITY AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION

[0069] A key advantage of this invention is its scalability. The straightforward one-step solid-state synthesis process is easily adaptable for large-scale production, without the need for complex or hazardous procedures. This makes it ideal for industries requiring significant quantities of sustainable water-soluble packaging materials. Furthermore, the production method can be seamlessly integrated into existing manufacturing facilities, reducing costs and enabling widespread commercial and industrial use.

[0070] 11. CLAIM(S); AND

[0071] 1. A novel water-soluble packaging film comprising of:

[0072] Guar gum (1.1 g),

[0073] hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-1) (1.01 g),

[0074] Aloe barbadensis (10 ml)

Claims

without leaving harmful residues. These properties make them an excellent sustainable alternative to conventional plastic films.EXAMPLE 6APPLICATIONS OF THE INVENTIONThe water-soluble packaging film as mentioned in the present invention can be used to make laminated film on the support member. The laminated film can be produced by casting the abovedescribed film casting solution of Example 1 on a support member.The water-soluble packaging film may be used for example as film for packaging goods such as chemicals, soaps, detergents, agrochemicals, toys, non-perishable food items and pharmaceuticals etc.,The present invention provides a water-soluble packaging film capable of packaging chemicals with good flexibility without offensive odors over a long period of time.The present invention provides a water-soluble packaging film which can achieve excellent water-solubility, excellent visibility and chemical resistance.EXAMPLE 7SCALABILITY AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTIONA key advantage of this invention is its scalability. The straightforward one-step solid-state synthesis process is easily adaptable for large-scale production, without the need for complex or hazardous procedures. This makes it ideal for industries requiring significant quantities of sustainable water-soluble packaging materials. Furthermore, the production method can be seamlessly integrated into existing manufacturing facilities, reducing costs and enabling widespread commercial and industrial use.

11. CLAIM(S); AND1. A novel water-soluble packaging film comprising of:Guar gum (1.1 g),hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-1) (1.01 g),Aloe barbadensis (10 ml)glycerin (10 drops),sorbitol (0.25 g), and wherein the ingredients were mixed in deionized water as solvent.

2. The method of preparing the water-soluble film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingredients are mixed, heated, cast, and dried under controlled conditions to produce a uniform and durable single-use packaging material.

3. The water-soluble packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the film forming mixture as in claim 1, is gently heated to 50-80°C to ensure complete dissolution of the ingredients.

4. The process for synthesizing the water-soluble film claimed in claim 1, wherein the films are prepared using a solution casting method.

5. The water-soluble packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the prepared films were dried at room temperature for 24h.

6. The water-soluble packaging film claimed in claim 1, is semi-transparent film with a smooth surface, capable of maintaining its appearance, texture, and integrity over extended storage periods.

7. The water-soluble packaging film claimed in claim 1, wherein the film forming composition imparts optimal load-bearing capacity to the film, making it suitable for packaging items weighing up to 500 g.

8. The water-soluble packaging film claimed in claim 1, is semi-transparent, opaque in nature and light yellowish in color.

9. The water-soluble packaging film according to claim 1, wherein, the water-soluble film is designed to dissolve completely within 45 minutes when exposed to water at temperature 40°C, leaving no harmful residues, making it an environmentally friendly solution for packaging applications. The film's water solubility ensures rapid disposal without contributing to waste accumulation.

10. The water-soluble packaging film according to claim 1 to 9, wherein, the film is designed to reduce plastic pollution by providing an eco-friendly alternative for single-use packaging.Table 1: Visual and Mechanical properties of Prepared Water-Soluble Films Property Parameter Observed PropertyColor Visually inspected under natural Films appeared pale yellow to light. transparentOpacity Placed the film over printed text Films are opaque with semi- and checked visibility. transparency; text was readable with slight blurring.Flexibility Repeatedly folded a 3 cm x 3 cm Withstood 20-25 folds without piece along the same line until breaking, indicating excellent breaking. flexibility.Tensile Manually stretched a 1 cm x 5 Moderate resistance to tearing; higher Strength cm strip until tearing. glycerol content reduced strength but improved flexibility.Tear Made a cut on the edge and Good resistance to tearing; uniform Resistance manually propagated the tear. samples performed consistently better. Surface Rubbed and visually inspected Smooth and uniform surface; no cracks Integrity the surface for cracks or peeling, or flaking; aloe vera-based films showed enhanced smoothness.Load- Applied gradual weight (up to Withstood up to 500 g without Bearing 500 g) using books or household significant deformation, suitable for Capacity items. lightweight packaging.

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