Recyclable Natural Fiber Packaging for Absorbent Articles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current disposable absorbent article packaging lacks sustainable and recyclable alternatives, particularly for compressed articles that require flexible materials, as existing solutions like carton board are not suitable for all applications and plastic is not environmentally friendly.
Innovation Solution
Development of packaging materials made from natural fibers with specific basis weights and configurations, including a consumer-facing panel and seals, that are recyclable and can enclose absorbent articles while maintaining structural integrity and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If plastic packaging material is used, then flexibility and ability to withstand packaging process rigors is improved, but environmental friendliness and recyclability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by using natural fibers with specific basis weights (50-120 gsm) and fiber compositions to achieve the desired flexibility and strength while maintaining recyclability. This resolves the contradiction by finding a natural fiber formulation that matches plastic's mechanical properties without the environmental harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite packaging material comprising natural fibers combined with specific binders and coatings to achieve both flexibility and environmental friendliness. The composite structure allows the material to withstand packaging process rigors while remaining recyclable, thus resolving the contradiction between mechanical performance and environmental impact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If carton board is used, then sustainability and recyclability are improved, but flexibility and ability to form shelf stable surface deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the material parameters by using natural fibers with lower basis weight (50-120 gsm) compared to traditional carton board, and incorporates specific fiber types and lengths to achieve the desired flexibility. This allows the material to be both sustainable and flexible, resolving the contradiction between environmental friendliness and operational ease.
3Ease of operation
If natural fiber packaging material with lower basis weight is used, then flexibility and recyclability are improved, but structural integrity and strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system where natural fibers are combined with specific binders, coatings, and potentially reinforcing elements to achieve the desired balance. The composite structure provides the necessary structural integrity while maintaining flexibility and recyclability, thus resolving the contradiction between strength and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different regions or aspects of the packaging material - using specific fiber compositions and treatments in critical areas to enhance strength where needed while maintaining overall flexibility and recyclability. This local optimization resolves the contradiction by addressing strength requirements without sacrificing overall material properties.
Data Source
AI summary
A package of one or more absorbent articles is disclosed. The package has a package material including natural fibers. The package has a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel, and wherein the package is sealed such that the one or more absorbent articles are completely enclosed therein. The package material has a basis weight of between 50 gsm to 120 gsm, between 60 gsm to 105 gsm or between 70 gsm to 90 gsm, as determined via ISO 536 as modified herein. The package material is recyclable.