Multi-layer Pharmaceutical Packaging with PCTFE and Ethylene Acrylate Tie Layer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing packaging materials, particularly those using fluoropolymers, face challenges due to high costs, poor adhesion to other polymers, and limitations in chemical resistance and sterilization compatibility, which restrict their use in storing moisture-sensitive products.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer article comprising a first layer of polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE) or its copolymer, a tie layer of ethylene acrylate resin, and a second layer of polyester, polycarbonate, polypropylene, or polyethylene, which enhances adhesion, chemical resistance, and sterilization compatibility while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fluoropolymer materials are used for packaging articles, then moisture barrier properties and chemical resistance are improved, but cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoisture barrier propertiesVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-layer composite structure where a thin fluoropolymer layer (0.002-0.020 inches) is combined with other polymer layers. The fluoropolymer layer provides the necessary moisture barrier and chemical resistance, while the composite structure reduces the amount of expensive fluoropolymer needed, making the overall packaging article cost-effective while maintaining high reliability for moisture-sensitive products.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If fluoropolymer materials are used for packaging articles, then moisture barrier properties are improved, but adhesion to other polymers deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoisture barrier propertiesVSAvoidadhesion
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a tie layer consisting of an ethylene acrylate resin between the fluoropolymer layer and other polymer layers. This intermediary layer serves as a bridge that adheres to both the fluoropolymer and the other polymers, resolving the adhesion problem while preserving the moisture barrier properties of the fluoropolymer layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Quantity of substance

If common plastics like PET, PVC, PP, PS are used for containers, then cost is reduced, but chemical resistance and sterilization compatibility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecostVSAvoidchemical resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a composite packaging structure that combines common, cost-effective plastics with a fluoropolymer layer. The fluoropolymer layer provides the necessary chemical resistance and sterilization compatibility, while the common plastics provide structural integrity and cost benefits. This composite approach allows the use of affordable materials without sacrificing the reliability needed for pharmaceutical and chemical storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentEP3962741B1Multi-layer article for storing a product
Publication Date: 2025.06.18 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
  • EP3962741B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3962741B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A multi-layer article for storing a product, such as a pharmaceutical product, includes a first layer that includes a polychlorotrifluoroethylene and/or copolymer of polychlorotrifluoroethylene and vinylidene fluoride. The article also includes a tie layer disposed on the first layer. The tie layer includes an ethylene acrylate resin. The article further includes a second layer that is disposed on the tie layer. The second layer includes a polyester, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, or combinations thereof. The article further optionally includes two optional layers each independently including a polychlorotrifluoroethylene and/or copolymer of polychlorotrifluoroethylene and vinylidene fluoride, or an ethylene acrylate resin, or a polyester, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, or combinations thereof. The article has a clarity of at least about 90% as determined using ASTM D1003-13.