Importance

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Abstract

The flexible packaging composites include one or more mineral-containing layers with a bonding agent. The composite structure is used as a primary or secondary packaging container or insulating material. In addition to the mineral-containing layer, the composite can contain one or more non-mineral containing layers, including various combinations of extruded resins, cast or blown films, and fibers. The mineral-containing layer is substantially and continuously bonded to the other layers. The present invention is an unexpectedly unique and environmentally friendly composite structure containing mineral layers with bonding agents as a key component. The material is designed to form flexible and semi-rigid storage articles at equal or lower costs to prior art solutions while providing a mineral containing layer that is a very smooth, has comparatively high plasticity, and having a high quality printing surface not requiring Corona Treatment. The composite structure is used as a primary or secondary packaging container or insulating material. In addition to the mineral containing layer, the composite could contain various combinations of extruded resins, cast or blown films, and fibers. The mineral containing layer is substantially and continuously bonded to the other layers. The polymer, fiber, and mineral containing layers can be shaped, sized and manufactured such that the composite structure formed is subsequently machined to form a storage article. The composite structure has advantages including a high degree of pliability and flexibility, a minimum 37 dyne level on the surface of the mineral containing layer; a mineral containing layer that is highly 86 opaque, and has a bright, white printing surface that readily accepts coating and inks, therefore, rendering it highly attractive to consumers. Further, the composite structure has tensile strength, dead-fold, stiffness, and other characteristics that allow it to be readily machined into desired storage article forms and storage article closures, therefore, the material can be used for as a variety of food, consumer, industrial, anti-static, and commercial uses. Other mineral containing layer advantages include environmentally attractive features such photo-degradability, recyclability, compostability, and bio-degradability.

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First Claim