Abstract: By providing a synthetic closure which comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer and, as an additive, at least one fatty acid derivative, in particular a fatty acid ester or a fatty acid amide such as a stearamide, a synthetic closure is attained which achieved substantially enhanced properties. In particular, it has been found that the oxygen transfer rate of the closure is reduced substantially, thus reducing unwanted oxidation of wine. Furthermore, the use of a fatty acid derivative additive improves the performance characteristics of synthetic corks, such as extraction force, ovality control, diameter control and length control.

Abstract: A method of preparing a closure for a product retaining container is disclosed along with the closure that is obtainable by the method. The present disclosure also relates to a use, in the manufacture of a closure, of a knife blade comprising a cutting edge region having a discontinuous cutting edge.

Abstract: A closure for a product retaining container constructed for being inserted and securely retained in a portal forming neck of the container has a substantially cylindrical shape and substantially flat terminating surfaces forming the opposed ends of said closure, wherein at least one of said terminating surfaces is at least partially covered by a decorative layer. Indicia may be applied on at least one of the two substantially flat terminating surfaces forming the opposed ends of a closure by means of hot stamping.

Abstract: A method of preparing a closure for a product retaining container is disclosed along with the closure that is obtainable by the method. The present disclosure also relates to a use, in the manufacture of a closure, of a knife blade comprising a cutting edge region having a discontinuous cutting edge.

Abstract: A closure for a product retaining container constructed for being inserted and securely retained in a portal forming neck of the container has a substantially cylindrical shape and substantially flat terminating surfaces forming the opposed ends of said closure, wherein at least one of said terminating surfaces is at least partially covered by a decorative layer. Indicia may be applied on at least one of the two substantially flat terminating surfaces forming the opposed ends of a closure by means of hot stamping.

Abstract: By providing a synthetic closure which comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer and, as an additive, at least one fatty acid derivative, in particular a fatty acid ester or a fatty acid amide such as a stearamide, a synthetic closure is attained which achieved substantially enhanced properties. In particular, it has been found that the oxygen transfer rate of the closure is reduced substantially, thus reducing unwanted oxidation of wine. Furthermore, the use of a fatty acid derivative additive improves the performance characteristics of synthetic corks, such as extraction force, ovality control, diameter control and length control.