INSULATED BAG AND SLEEVE FOR CARRYING GROCERIES AND OTHER OBJECTS

Info

Publication number: 20180319569
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 11, 2016
Publication Date: Nov 8, 2018
Applicant: TEMPERPAK TECHNOLOGIES INC. (Richmond, VA)
Inventors: James MCGOFF (Silver Spring, MD), Charles VINCENT (St. Bruno De Montarville), Richard BOEHLING (Hernrico, VA)
Application Number: 15/775,454

Abstract

Provided herein are products, methods, and kits, for use in regulating the temperature of an object. The present invention relates to insulated enclosures for regulating the temperature of perishable goods or temperature sensitive products. The insulated enclosures may be quickly collapsed and reconstructed to diminish the amount of space required to store the insulated enclosures prior to use.

Description

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/296,762, filed on Feb. 18, 2016, and 62/254,628 filed on Nov. 12, 2015 which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

A multitude of industries produce and transport goods that are temperature sensitive. Such industries include but are not limited to the food industry, confectioneries, meat and seafood industry, medical diagnostics industry, pharmaceutical industry, and industrial goods industry. These goods are generally packaged at the plant where they are produced and prepared for shipping to customers or forwarded into a distribution channel ideally, it would be desirable to provide insulation systems which have reliable thermal performance over extended time periods, are leak-proof, can be shipped and stored in a manner requiring limited space, and are fabricated from cost-competitive, environmentally-friendly materials in a cost-effective manner.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Novel insulated bags and insulated sleeves are presented. In one aspect, the insulated bag can be a natural fiber insulated bag having a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In one aspect, the insulated bag may comprise an inner layer, an insulation layer, and an outer layer wherein 80%-100% of the insulated bag biodegrades within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can have a planar reinforcing material, wherein the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion and provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the natural fiber insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at about least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fiber. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise expanded cornstarch. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene, polypropylene or polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and/or the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant.

In one aspect, the insulated bag can be a natural fiber insulated bag having a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In one aspect, the insulated bag may comprise an inner layer, an insulation layer, a planar reinforcing material, wherein the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion and provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction, and an outer layer wherein the natural fiber insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bags can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fiber. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise expanded cornstarch. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and/or the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant. In one aspect, 80%-100% of the insulated bag can biodegrade within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C.

Disclosed herein are insulated bags. In one aspect, the insulated bag may have a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In one aspect, the insulated bag may comprise an inner layer, a natural fiber insulation layer, an outer layer and at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled material can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can shape the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can provide structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant. In one aspect, 80%-100% of the insulated bag can biodegrade within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C.

Disclosed herein are insulated bags. In one aspect, the insulated bag may have a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In one aspect, the insulated bag may comprise an inner layer, an insulation layer, and an outer layer. In some embodiments the insulation layer can comprise a bast fiber. In some embodiments, the bast fiber can be jute. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can have a thickness ranging from about 0.3 cm to about 11.0 cm, in other embodiments from about 0.3 cm to about 4.0 cm. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer cam comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise at least one carrying handle. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can provide structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated bag. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant. In one aspect, 80%-100% of the insulated bag can biodegrade within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C.

Disclosed herein are insulated sleeves. In one aspect, the insulated sleeve comprises a first side portion, a second side portion, and a middle portion separating the first side portion and the second side portion. In one aspect, the insulated sleeve can comprise an insulation layer, an inner layer and an outer layer. In one aspect, 80%-100% of the insulated sleeve can biodegrade within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C. In some embodiments, the outer layer can cover the outer surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can further comprise an element for closing the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated sleeve may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated sleeve. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant.

Disclosed herein are insulated sleeves. In one aspect, the insulated sleeve comprises an insulation layer, an inner layer and an outer layer. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material, wherein the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprises a bast fiber, the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprising a first side portion, a second side portion, and a middle portion separating the first and second side portions. In some embodiments, the bast fiber can be jute. In some embodiments, the inner layer can cover an inner surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the outer layer can cover the outer surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprises post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve further can comprise an element for closing the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated sleeve may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may comprise a binder. In some embodiments, an insulation layer may be bonded by a binder. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise sap, cornstarch, polylactates, polyester, nylon, honey, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates, polymalates, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters, celluloses or starches. In some embodiments, an insulation layer does not comprise a binder. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can comprise a length of 7 cm to 90 cm. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can comprise a width of 5 cm to 60 cm. In some embodiments the bonding agent can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise an additive. In some embodiments, the additive can comprise 10% or less by weight of the insulated sleeve. In some aspects, the additive can comprise an antimicrobial agent or a flame retardant. In one aspect, 80%-100% of the insulated sleeve can biodegrade within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost. In some embodiments, the compost can be a municipal or a household compost. In some embodiments, the humidity can be 40-60%. In some embodiments, the temperature can be 65-70° C.

Disclosed herein are methods for regulating a temperature of a sample. In one aspect, the method can comprise placing the sample into a cavity of an insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the bag can further comprise an inner layer, a natural fiber insulation layer, an outer layer and at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer cam comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can shape the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can provide structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the sample can comprise a temperature sensitive sample. In some embodiments, the temperature sensitive sample can be a food product. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice is dry ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may comprise repulpale material. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods for regulating a temperature of a sample. In one aspect, the method can comprise placing the sample into a cavity of an insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can comprise a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In some embodiment, the bag can further comprise an inner layer, an insulation layer and an outer layer. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a bast fiber. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can have a thickness ranging from about 0.3 cm to about 11.0 cm, in other embodiments from about 0.3 cm to about 4.0 cm. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can comprise natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers can comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers can comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber can comprise cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise paper. In some embodiments, the paper can comprise kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer can comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials can comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise at least one carrying handle. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can shape the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet can have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can further comprise an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing can comprise one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the sample can comprise a temperature sensitive sample. In some embodiments, the temperature sensitive sample can be a food product. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice is dry ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods for regulating a temperature of a sample. In one aspect, the method comprises placing the sample into a cavity of a natural fiber insulated bag. In some embodiments, the insulated bag comprises a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the bag further comprises an inner layer, an insulation layer, a planar reinforcing material and an outer layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion of the bag. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the natural fiber insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material comprises a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet has rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the sample comprises a temperature sensitive sample. In some embodiments, the temperature sensitive sample can be a food product. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods for regulating a temperature of a sample. In one aspect, the method comprises placing the sample into a cavity of an insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve comprises an insulation layer, an inner layer and an outer layer. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises a continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material, wherein the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprises a bast fiber, the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprising a first side portion, a second side portion, and a middle portion separating the first and second side portions. In some embodiments, the inner layer covers an inner surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the outer layer covers the outer surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the bast fiber can be jute. In some embodiments, the inner layer covers an inner surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the outer layer covers the outer surface of the insulation layer. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice is dry ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve further comprises an element for closing the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the sample comprises a temperature sensitive sample. In some embodiments, the temperature sensitive sample can be a food product. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated sleeve may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods of making insulating bags. In one aspect, the method comprise producing an outer layer comprising a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion, producing a natural fiber insulation layer, covering an inner surface of the outer layer with the insulation layer, producing an inner layer, covering the insulation layer with the inner layer, wherein the insulation layer can be between the inner layer and the outer layer and affixing at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag, wherein the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can be produced by one or more of: needling, spunbonding, melt blowing, bonded carded, thermal bonding, and wet laid. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material comprises a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet has rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods of making insulated bags. In one aspect, the method comprises producing an outer layer comprising a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion, producing an insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer comprises a bast fiber and has a thickness ranging from about 0.3 cm to about 11.0 cm, in other embodiments form about 0.3 cm to about 4.0 cm, covering an inner surface of the outer layer with the insulation layer, producing an inner layer and covering the insulation layer with the inner layer, wherein the insulation layer can be between the inner layer and the outer layer. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can be produced by one or more of: needling, spunbonding, melt blowing, bonded carded, thermal bonding, and wet laid. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises at least one carrying handle. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises a planar reinforcing material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material comprises a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet has rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice is dry ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods of making a natural fiber insulated bags. In one aspect, the method comprising producing an outer layer comprising a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion, producing an insulation layer, covering an inner surface of the outer layer with the insulation layer, producing an inner layer, covering the insulation layer with the inner layer, wherein the insulation layer can be between the inner layer and the outer layer, and placing a planar reinforcing material on the bottom portion, wherein the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion and provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction. In some embodiments, the natural fiber insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice is dry ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises fibrous material. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises a single continuous layer of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the insulation layer comprises multiple discontinuous layers of fibrous material. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can be produced by one or more of: needling, spunbonding, melt blowing, bonded carded, thermal bonding, and wet laid. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises at least one carrying handle for carrying the bag. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle ridged. In some embodiments, the at least one carrying handle can be fastened to the inner layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material comprises a ridged sheet. In some embodiments, the ridged sheet has rounded edges. In some embodiments, the insulated bag further comprises an element for closing the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated bag may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Disclosed herein are methods of making insulated sleeve. In one aspect, the method comprises producing an insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer comprises a continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material, wherein the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprises a bast fiber, covering an inner surface of the first side portion, second side portion and the middle portion with an inner layer and covering an outer surface of the first side portion, second side portion and the middle portion with an outer layer. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve maintains an internal below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve can maintain an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 48 hours. In some embodiments, the cooling agent can be about at least 0.9 kg ice. In some embodiments, the ice can be dry ice. In some embodiments, the average ambient temperature can be about 21.1° C. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the inner layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises nonwoven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises woven fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises natural fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise animal fibers. In some embodiments, the animal fibers comprise wool fibers. In some embodiments, the natural fibers comprise plant fiber. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises jute fibers. In some embodiments, the plant fiber comprises cotton fibers. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be ridged. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be flexible. In some embodiments, the outer layer can be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises paper. In some embodiments, the paper comprises kraft paper. In some embodiments, outer layer comprises polyethylene. In some embodiments, the outer layer comprises recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the recycled materials comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous material can be produced by one or more of: needling, spunbonding, melt blowing, bonded carded, thermal bonding, and wet laid. In some embodiments, the insulated sleeve further comprises an element for closing the insulated sleeve. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive v a double sided adhesive. In some embodiments, the element for closing comprises one of a zipper, zip-lock, hook, button, friction, solder, pins, clips, and hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can be disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer. The insulated sleeve may further comprise a barrier. The barrier may cover the inner layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the inner layer. The barrier may cover the outer layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the outer layer. The barrier may cover the insulation layer. The barrier may cover a portion of the insulation layer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polymer. The barrier may comprise a copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The barrier may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The barrier may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. The barrier may be a moisture resistant barrier. The barrier may be an oxygen barrier. The barrier may comprise a wax. The wax may be at least one of carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin. In some embodiments, the barrier described herein can be coated with a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a biodegradable copolymer. The biodegradable polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. The biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoate. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a 4-hydroxybutyrate polymer, copolymer or blends thereof. The coating may comprise a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer. The coating may comprise a 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate copolymer. The coating may comprise a biodegradable polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the coating can be moisture resistant. In some embodiments, the coating can be impermeable to oxygen. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a wax. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

Novel insulated bags and insulated sleeves are presented. In one aspect of the inventions disclosed herein, the inner layer, outer layer, and the insulation layer of the inventions disclosed herein comprise natural fibers. In one aspect of the inventions disclosed herein, the inner layer, outer layer, and the insulation layer of the inventions disclosed herein comprise 0% synthetic fibers. In one aspect the inventions disclosed herein, the inner layer, outer layer, and the insulation layer of the inventions disclosed herein comprises 0% unnatural fibers.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features described herein are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the features described herein will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative examples, in which the principles of the features described herein are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1A illustrates an insulated enclosure, in this instance an insulated sleeve.

FIG. 1B illustrates an insulated enclosure, in this instance an insulated bag.

FIG. 2 illustrates an insulated sleeve, with the flap of the inner layer extended above the insulated sleeve 10.

FIG. 3 illustrates an insulated sleeve, with the inner layer and insulation layer separated from the outer layer.

FIG. 4 illustrates an insulated sleeve, with the inner layer and insulation layer removed from the outer layer with the insulation layer placed on top of the inner layer.

FIG. 5A illustrates three components of an insulated sleeve; the insulation layer, the inner layer and the outer layer, each of the components is separated and placed next to each other.

FIG. 5B illustrates the inner layer of an insulated sleeve, positioned with the opening facing up to show the incision and flaps formed at the top of the inner layer.

FIG. 6 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 1B, unfolded and open with the gussets hidden on the bottom of the bag and the handles facing upward.

FIG. 7 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 6, unfolded and open, lying on its side with the handles facing towards the viewer and the bottom of the bag facing away from the viewer.

FIG. 8 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 7, folded and lying flat with the gussets unfolded, and the planar reinforcing material from the bottom of the insulated bag removed and placed next to the insulated bag.

FIG. 9 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 8, with one handle turned up to exposed the inner layer, and the double sided tape disposed on the rim of the inner layer.

FIG. 10A illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 6, with the gussets at the bottom of the bag folded in against the hidden planar reinforcing material at the bottom of the insulated bag.

FIG. 10B illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 10A, with the gussets at the bottom of the insulated bag unfolded.

FIG. 11 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 8, with handles removed and a flap of the outer layer torn away to reveal the insulation layer 30 disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer.

FIG. 12 illustrates a graph showing an insulated bag test. The graph illustrates the performance of a jute insulated bag at ambient temperature.

FIG. 13 illustrates a graph showing an insulated sleeve, sleeve test. The graph illustrates the performance of a jute insulated sleeve and an original sleeve at ambient temperature.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Several aspects are described below with reference to example applications for illustration. It should be understood that numerous specific details, relationships, and methods are set forth to provide a full understanding of the features described herein. One having ordinary skill in the relevant art, however, will readily recognize that the features described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods. The features described herein are not limited by the illustrated ordering of acts or events, as some acts can occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts or events are required to implement a methodology in accordance with the features described herein.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular cases only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and/or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising”.

In this disclosure the term “about” or “approximately” can mean a range of up to 10% of a given value. In this disclosure the term “substantially” refers to something which is done to a great extent or degree.

In this disclosure, the term “biodegradable” is used herein to mean degradable over time by water and/or enzymes found in nature (e.g. compost), without harming, and in fact helping, the environment. Biodegradable materials include those materials which biodegrade (decompose) when composted under compost conditions and materials which biodegrade without compost conditions. Biodegradable materials that are compostable will degrade under typical household or municipal compost conditions. A “biodegradable” material has the ability to break down, safely and relatively quickly, by biological means, into the raw materials of nature and disappear into the environment. A material that is “compostable” is one that can be placed into a composition of decaying biodegradable materials, and eventually turns into a nutrient-rich material. The “biodegradable” or “compostable” material can be tested under a recognized protocol and with tested methods of established regulatory bodies such as: EPA, EPA-TSCA, OECD, MITI or other similar or equivalent organizations in the United States or internationally.

In this disclosure the term “oxygen barrier” “impermeable to oxygen” can refer to materials having oxygen transmission rates of less than about 10 cc/m², in 24 hours at 22.7778° C. (73° F.). (STP).

Overview

Provided herein are apparatuses and methods, for use in regulating the temperature of goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items. The apparatuses and methods may comprise insulated enclosures. The insulated enclosure may be dimensioned to fit within a container. The insulated enclosure may be quickly collapsed and reconstructed to improve stackability and diminish the amount of space required to store the insulated enclosure prior to use.

The shipment or transport of goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may require that such materials remain at a stable temperature, or within a specific temperature range. This stable temperature or temperature range may be either elevated or decreased with respect to ambient temperatures to which the packaging is exposed. In some embodiments, ambient temperatures can be about 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, or about 39° C. In some embodiments average ambient temperatures can be about 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or about 26° C. Because of long transport times for goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items and the sensitivity of certain of these items due to slight temperature fluctuations, considerable efforts have been made to provide enclosures including bags and envelopes with improved insulating characteristics.

Provided herein are insulated enclosures that may reduce leakage that may lead to degradation of the container material, and destruction of surrounding property. Provided herein are insulated enclosures that may follow the contours of the enclosed contents.

Provided herein are insulated enclosures for use in regulating the temperature of goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosures may be flexible. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosures may comprise recycled materials. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure may be used where it is essential to keep goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items within a relatively defined thermal range. In some embodiments, the defined thermal range may be hot, warm, cool or cold, depending upon the goods, foodstuffs, samples, medical items or the purpose of use.

Insulated Enclosures

FIG. 1A illustrates an insulated enclosure, in this instance the enclosure is an insulated sleeve 10, the insulated sleeve is depicted with the opening at the top; both open and sealed versions of the insulated sleeve are depicted.

FIG. 1B illustrates an insulated enclosure, in this instance the enclosure is an insulated bag 15. The insulated bag 15 is unfolded, facing up, and partially open.

FIG. 2 illustrates an insulated sleeve 10. The insulated sleeve comprised an insulation layer 30 (not visible) disposed between two layers, and an inner layer 25a that extends above an outer layer 20.

FIG. 3 illustrates an insulated sleeve 10 with the inner layer 25 and insulation layer 30 separated from the outer layer 20. The inner layer 25 extends above the edge of the outer layer 20 and incisions 25b are made in the inner layer to form two flaps (only one shown) 25a that can be folded over the top edge of the outer layer allowing the insulation to be housed between the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20.

FIG. 4 illustrates the internal components of an insulated sleeve 10 (inner layer 25 and insulation layer 30) placed besides the outer layer 20 of the insulated sleeve. The flap of the inner layer 25a is shown extending above the insulation layer. The insulation layer 30 refers to fibrous materials produced by methods known in the art.

FIG. 5A illustrates three separated components of an insulated sleeve 10; the insulation layer 30, the inner layer 25 with flap 25a, and the outer layer 20—each of the separated components are placed next to each other in this illustration.

FIG. 5B illustrates the inner layer 25 of the insulated sleeve depicted in FIG. 5A. The inner layer 25 is positioned with the opening facing up to show the flaps 25a and incision 25b formed at the top of the inner layer 25. In the assembled insulated sleeve 10, as depicted in FIG. 2, the insulation layer 30 may be disposed between the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20 with the flaps 25a of the inner layer 25 extend over the outer layer such that they can be adhered to the outer layer 20, thus encapsulating the insulation layer 30 therebetween. The contents of the insulated sleeve 10 can then be inserted between the walls of the inner layer 25.

FIG. 6 illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 1B. The insulated bag 15 can be unfolded with the opening and the handles 35 facing upwards. The insulated bag 15 can constructed similarly to the insulated sleeve, with an insulation layer 30 disposed between an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20. The flaps 25a of the inner layer 25 extend over the outer layer 20, and may be adhered to the outer layer 20 thus encapsulating the insulation layer 30 therebetween. Adhesive, for example, adhesive 45 may be disposed along the inner rim of the insulated bag 15, as is visible from this view. Adhesive may be used to seal the bag after it has been packed. This prolongs the duration of refrigerated conditions inside the bag by reducing convective heat transfer.

FIG. 7 illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 6, unfolded and lying on its side, with the handles 35 and opening oriented towards the viewer and the bottom of the insulated bag oriented away from the viewer. Handles may be made of string, flat paper, corrugated cardboard or any other materials suitable for supporting weight. The handles 35 depicted in these embodiments are corrugated to distribute the weight of the contents of the bag across a higher surface, lowering the stress placed on the adhesive 45 or any other mechanism used to seal the bag closed.

FIG. 8 illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 7, folded and lying flat with the planar reinforcing material 40 from the bottom of the bag removed and placed next to the insulated bag. The planar reinforcing material 40 can be placed at the bottom of the bag and acts as a platform upon which the payload can rest. The planar reinforcing material 40 can help reduce stress by distributing the weight of the payload across the surface of the bottom of the insulated bag. The planar reinforcing material can also give the insulating bag a shape, and help establish a gusset.

FIG. 9 illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 8, with one of the handles 35 turned up to exposed the inner layer 25, and the adhesive 45 disposed on the rim of the inner layer 25. To assemble the insulated bag 15, the inner layer 25 can be positioned so that it sits above the outer layer 20, with the top edge 25a of the inner layer 25 extended above the edge of the outer layer 20. Two incisions 25b can be made on the edges of the inner layer. These incisions can result in the creation of two independent flaps 25a which can then be folded over the top edge of the outer layer 20 and sealed to ensure that the insulation layer is properly sealed between the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20. A planar reinforcing material 40 can be placed in the bottom of the bag, and the gussets 55 can be formed by creating a bottom with the shape of the planar reinforcing material 40 that matches the dimensions of the planar reinforcing material 40. FIG. 10A illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 6, with the gussets 55 at the bottom of the bag folded in against a planar reinforcing material 40 at the bottom of the bag. FIG. 10B illustrates the insulated bag 15 of FIG. 10A, with the gussets 55 at the bottom of the bag unfolded. To form the gusset in this embodiment, two triangular sides 50 of the newly formed bag are folded under the planar reinforcing material 40 and sealed via the application of adhesive.

FIG. 11 illustrates the insulated bag of FIG. 8, with the top edge of the inner layer 25a (which was folded over and sealed to the outer layer) removed. A flap of the outer layer 20 was also torn away to reveal the insulation layer 30 disposed between the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be flexible. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be pliable, bendable, or give way easily under pressure. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be one that may be capable of being bent or flexed repeatedly without significant damage. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be rigid. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be substantially rigid.

In one aspect, the insulation layer 30 may comprise expanded cornstarch. In one aspect, the insulation layer 30 may comprise a polymer selected from the group comprising, without limitation acrylic polymers, acrylic copolymers, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, poly-ethylene vinyl acetate, poly-ethylene vinyl chloride, styrene butadiene copolymers, polyvinylidiene chloride, or starch.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise nonwoven fibrous materials. Nonwoven may refer to any material made from the aggregation of fibers which is produced without the use of conventional weaving, or knitting operations. In some embodiments, in preparing such fibers, the starting nonwoven fabric may comprise a web of staple fibers, continuous filaments, plexifilamentary strands or the like. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise woven fibrous materials. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise fibers consolidated or bonded by any method known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise woven, nonwoven, weaved, knitted, laced, felted, braided, plaited fibrous materials or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the nonwoven fibrous materials may be made by any nonwoven process. In some embodiments, the nonwoven process may include, but are not limited to, wet laid, air laid, carding, felting, needling, print bonding, discontinues bonding, hot calendaring, belt calendaring, through-air thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, radiant heat bonding, hydroentangling (spunlaced), or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be substantially dense. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be substantially stiff. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be substantially light. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be voluminous.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise a first fibrous material and a second fibrous material. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may comprise at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 30, or 40 different fibrous materials. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% of a first fibrous material. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 3′7%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 4′7%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% of a second fibrous material.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise virgin material. In some embodiments, virgin material may be material that has not been previously used or consumed, or subjected to processing other than for its original production. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% virgin material.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be biodegradable. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may degrade upon exposure to the conditions of temperature and humidity commonly encountered in municipal compost. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may degrade upon exposure to the conditions of temperature and humidity commonly encountered in household compost.

In some embodiment, a household compost or a municipal compost can have a moisture content of 40-60% by weight. In some aspects, humidity and moisture content can be used interchangeable. In some embodiments, a household compost or a municipal compost can have a temperature of 65-70° C. A household compost or a municipal compost can have a moisture content of 40-60% and a temperature of 65-70° C. A household compost or a municipal compost can have a moisture content of 25, 30, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 70, 75, 80, or 90% by weight. A household compost or a municipal compost can have a temperature of 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 80, 85, 90 or 100° C.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 300 may be about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% biodegradable under municipal or household compost conditions.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 4′7%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% biodegradable.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be compostable. In some embodiments, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% of the insulation layer 30 may decompose within the range about 1 to about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may decomposes within about 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 8 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks, 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks, 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks, 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks, 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks, 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks, 36 weeks, 37 weeks, 38 weeks, 39 weeks, 40 weeks, 41 weeks, 42 weeks, 43 weeks, 44 weeks, 45 weeks, 46 weeks, 47 weeks, 48 weeks, 49 weeks, or about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the insulating layer 200 may decompose within at least 50 weeks.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the recycled fibers may be sourced from burlap bags, garments, jeans or other consumer goods. In some embodiments, the recycled fibers may be broken down from highly dense fibers into lower density fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise 10 or 15% post-consumer recycled fibers. Post-consumer recycling refers to materials of manufacturing that are recycled after reaching a consumer. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise within the range of about 1% to about 10 or 15% post-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% post-consumer recycled fibers.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled fibers. Pre-consumer recycling refers to materials of manufacturing that do not reach an end consumer prior to being recycled. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise within the range of about 1% to about 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled fibers.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be compostable. In some embodiments, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% of the insulation layer 30 may decompose within the range about 1 to about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may decomposes within about 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 8 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks, 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks, 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks, 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks, 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks, 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks, 36 weeks, 37 weeks, 38 weeks, 39 weeks, 40 weeks, 41 weeks, 42 weeks, 43 weeks, 44 weeks, 45 weeks, 46 weeks, 47 weeks, 48 weeks, 49 weeks, or about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may decompose within at least 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise a single continuous insulation layer. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise one or more segmented or discontinuous layers. In some embodiments, the insulation layers may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, or at least 20 segmented or discontinuous layers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer can comprise discontinuous layers of insulating material mechanically or chemically constrained.

Fibers

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise fibrous materials. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise natural fibers, such as animal, plant or mineral fibers. In some embodiments, the insulation layer may comprise seed fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise a regenerated fiber. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise a semi-synthetic fiber. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise a synthetic fiber, or a synthetic organic polymer. Synthetic fiber may comprise recycled plastics such as PET fibers. In some embodiments, polymer generally includes, but is not limited to, homopolymers, copolymers, for example, block, graft, random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc., and blends and modifications thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically limited, the term “polymer” also includes all possible geometric configurations of the material. These configurations include, but are not limited to, isotactic, syndiotactic, atactic and random symmetries.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise mineral fibers. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise a bast fiber. In some embodiments, bast fibers may be plant fibers collected from the phloem or bast surrounding the stem of certain plants. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise but are not limited to cotton fibers, flax fibers, wood fibers, silk fibers, wool fibers, alpaca fibers, angora fibers, bison fibers, cashmere fibers, mofiber fibers, sheep's wool fibers, qiviut fibers, llama fibers, camel fibers, yak fibers, possum fibers, horse fibers, dog fibers, chinchilla fibers, guanoaco fibers, merino fibers, jute fibers, asbestos fibers, tag fibers, abaca fibers, slash pine fibers, jack pine fibers, radiata pine fibers, loblolly pine fibers, white spruce fibers, lodgepole pine fibers, redwood fibers, Douglas fir. Oaks fibers, genus Quercus fibers, maples fibers, genus Acer fibers, poplars fibers, genus Populus fibers, esparto grass fibers, bagasse fibers, ramie fibers, kenaff fibers, sisal fibers, hemp fibers, straw and other lignaceous and cellulosic fiber sources, milkweed floss fibers, pineapple leaf fibers, woody fibers, albardine fibers, wheat fibers, rice fibers, corn fibers, sugar cane fibers, papyrus fibers, reed fibers, sabia fibers, raphia fibers, bamboo fibers, sidal fibers, sunn fibers, lyocell fibers, ramie fibers, nettle fibers, spanish broom fibers alone or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be natural non-plant sources, such as, down, feathers, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be treated or otherwise modified mechanically or chemically to provide desired characteristics or may be in a form that is generally similar to the form in which they may be found in nature.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise viscose rayon fibers in all its varieties and other fibers derived from viscose or chemically-modified cellulose, cupra-amrnonium rayon, ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulosic esters, cellulosic ethers, cellulosic nitrates, cellulosic acetate butyrates, regenerated celluloses, chemically modified cellulose such as cross-linked cellulose fibers, highly purified cellulose fibers such as Buckeye HPF polyamides alone or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise polyamides such as nylon, KEVLAR®, and the like, TEFLON®, polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(β-malic acid) (PMLA), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(ρ-dioxanone) (PDS), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), and the like, Dacron, acrylics, Orlon, Acrilan, Dynel, polyolefins, such as, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, and the like, (including atactic, isotactic, syndiotactic and impact modified versions thereof) and poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), vinylidene chloride, saran, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, neoprene or polychloroprene, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET), leather, canvas, bicomponent sheath-core fibers, multi-component fibers, and the like, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer fibers, carbon fibers, silicon nitride fibers, and the like, alone or combinations thereof.

Fibrous materials may comprise aramids. Fibrous materials may comprise Para aramid. In some embodiments, fibrous materials can comprise KEVLAR®, Technora, Twaron or Heracron. Fibrous materials may comprise meta aramid, for example Nomex.

Polyester as used herein, encompasses both “homopolyesters” and “copolyesters” and means a synthetic polymer prepared by the polycondensation of difunctional carboxylic acids with a difunctional hydroxyl compound. Typically, the difunctional carboxylic acid may be a dicarboxylic acid and the difunctional hydroxyl compound may be a dihydric alcohol such as, for example, glycols and diols. Alternatively, the difunctional carboxylic acid may be a hydroxy carboxylic acid such as, for example, p-hydroxybenzoic acid. The difunctional hydroxyl compound may be an aromatic nucleus bearing two hydroxy substituents such as, for example, hydroquinone.

In some embodiments, a fibrous material can comprise a polymer. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise polymers such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene, impact modified polystyrene, ABS, styrenelbutadiene block copolymers and hydrogenated derivatives thereof (SBS and SEBS), and thermoplastic polyurethanes. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may comprise suitable styrenic polymers such as polystyrene, rubber modified polystyrene (HIPS), styrene/acrylonitrile copolymers (SAN), rubber modified SAN (ABS or AES), styrene maleic anhydride copolymers alone or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a fibrous material can comprise a plastic. In some embodiments, a fibrous material can comprise petroleum plastics.

In some embodiments, the synthetic fibers may be a single component (e.g., single synthetic material or mixture makes up entire fiber), bi-component (e.g., the fiber is divided into regions, the regions including two or more different synthetic materials or mixtures thereof and may include co-extruded fibers and core and sheath fibers) or combinations thereof. Synthetic fiber may comprise recycled plastics such as PET fibers.

In some embodiments, any or all of the synthetic fibers may be treated before, during, or after manufacture to change any desired properties of the fibers.

In some embodiments, the fibrous material may have various cross-sectional shapes, including but not limited to round, rectangular, oval, tri-lobal, or other cross-sectional shapes.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise a plurality of flame resistant fibers.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may further comprise at least one or more additional fibrous materials. In some embodiments, the additional fibrous materials may have a different composition and/or configuration (e.g., length, minimum transverse dimension, maximum transverse dimension, cross-sectional shape, or combinations thereof) than the insulation layer 30 fibers and may be of any type of fiber that is known in the art. In some embodiments, the additional fibrous material may be natural, or synthetic as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise additional fibers in an amount of at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, or 60 weight percent of the insulation layer 30 and/or not more than 99, 98, 95, 90, 85, 80, 70, 60, or 50 weight percent of the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise additional fibers in an amount of about 1 to about 99 weight percent of the insulation layer 30.

Nonwoven

In some embodiments, the fibrous material may be nonwoven.

In some embodiments, the nonwoven fibrous material may be fabricated by methods such as, for example, bonded carded, needling, spunbonding, melt blowing, wet laid, thermal bonding, garnett processed, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibers may be separated and then carded, or “combed” into a web by passing through rotating cylinders covered by wires with teeth. In some embodiments, the unbonded web of fibers may be bonded using various techniques. In some embodiments, carded refers to webs that are made from staple fibers wherein the fibers are separated. Next, the fibers may be sent through a combining or carding unit which further breaks apart and aligns the staple fibers in the machine direction so as to form a machine direction-oriented fibrous nonwoven web. Once the web has been formed, it may be then bonded by one or more of several bonding methods.

In some embodiments, the fibers may be bonded by inserting barbed needles mechanically into the substrate, hooking tufts of fibers and entangling them (needling). In some embodiments, needling may refer to inserting and drawing a fiber-interlacing tool such as needles into and from the base of loose fibers. The mechanical interlocking may be achieved with a large number of barbed needles that repeatedly punch through fibrous webs.

In some embodiments, spunbonding may refer to a process in which small diameter of substantially continuous fibers are formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material from a plurality of fine, usually circular, capillaries of a spinnerette with the diameter of the extruded fibers then being rapidly reduced as by, for example, educative drawing and/or other well-known spunbonding mechanisms. The production of spun-bonded nonwoven fabric is described and illustrated, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,563 to Appel, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,692,618 to Dorschner, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,802,817 to Matsuki, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,338,992 to Kinney, U.S. Pat. No. 3,341,394 to Kinney, U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,763 to Hartman, U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,538 to Levy, U.S. Pat. No. 3,542,615 to Dobo, et al., and 5,382,400 to Pike, et al., which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference thereto for all purposes. More information on the spunbond process in general may be obtained from Wadsworth, L. C. and Goswami, B. C., Nonwoven Fabrics: “Spunbonded and Melt Blown Processes”, Proceedings of the Eighth Annual Nonwovens Workshop, July 30 to Aug. 3, 1990, sponsored by TANDEC, University of Tennessee at Knoxyille.

In some embodiments, garnett processed can refer to the use of a fiber processing machine with a series of sawtooth wires that are much coarser than found in a conventional carding system. In some embodiments, garnett process can reduce textile waste, old clothing and assorted natural fibers to a fibrous feed that can be needlepunched.

In some embodiments, melt blowing may refer to fibers formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material through a plurality of fine, usually circular, die capillaries as molten threads or filaments into converging high velocity gas streams (for example, airstreams) which attenuate the filaments of molten thermoplastic material to reduce their diameter, which may be to microfiber diameter. Such a process is disclosed, in various patents and publications, including NRL Report 4364, “Manufacture of Super-Fine Organic Fibers” by B. A. Wendt, E. L. Boone and D. D. Fluharty; NRL Report 5265, “An Improved Device For The Formation of Super-Fine Thermoplastic Fibers” by K. D. Lawrence, R. T. Lukas, J. A. Young; and U.S. Pat. No. 3,849,241, issued Nov. 19, 1974, to Butin, et al.

In some embodiments, the fibers may be bonded by laying a slurry of the fibers on a screen followed by squeezing the web between rolls and drying in an oven (wet laid). In some embodiments, wet laid may refer to the process for making nonwoven webs prepared by suspending fibers in a liquid medium, such as water, applying the fibrous slurry to a forming wire or fabric, removing the liquid from the fibers to form a continuous fibrous web and drying the web. Wet laid webs are well known in the art. In some embodiments, this process may produce a web in which fibers are randomly oriented. In some embodiments, these webs may be then superimposed on one another in a parallel fashion. Wet laid webs are disclosed, for instance, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,879,257 to Gentile et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,399,412, issued to S. J. Sudall and S. A. Engel on Mar. 21, 1995; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,248, issued to Wendt et al. on Sep. 30, 1997 which are incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be bonded with heat and pressure from a calender (thermal bonding). In some embodiments, thermal bonding may comprise hot calendering, belt calendering, through-air thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, radiant-heat bonding and methods known to one of skill in the art or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, hot calendering comprises area bonding, point bonding, embossing or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may not be bound by a binder. In some embodiments, the fibrous material is not bonded together by a bonding agent. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials be bonded by adding chemical binders (chemical or resin bonding). In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be bonded by a powdered adhesive. In some embodiments, the powdered adhesive may be distributed throughout the web and then activated. In some embodiments, the powdered adhesive may be activated by heating the web and adhesive with hot air. In some embodiments, the fibrous materials in the web may be bound together by a bonding agent. In some embodiments, the bonding agent may consist of the same polymer as the fibrous materials, or a different fibrous material. In some embodiments, the bond may be a result of the combination of physical and chemical forces which acts on the boundary layer between the two polymers.

In some embodiments, the bonding agent may be but not limited to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic bonding agents or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the bonding agent may comprise polyester, nylon, honey or sap. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may be biodegradable. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may be a polymer. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may be polylactic acid. In some embodiments, a bonding agent comprise polylactic acid. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may be a polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a copolymer. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a homopolymer. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may comprise a heteropolymer. In some embodiments, a bonding agent may be without limitation a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates (or PLA), polymalates (or PMA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (or PHA), polycaprolactones (or PCL), polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters (PBAT), celluloses or starches which are highly acetylated or rendered hydrophobic by introduction of fixed fatty chains, taken alone or in combination, in the form of homopolymers or heteropolymers, whether linear, branched, crosslinked, dendritic or grafted.

In some embodiments, the bonding agent may comprise but is not limited to a synthetic resin bonding agent and/or a phenolic resin bonding agent. In some embodiments, the synthetic resin bonding agent may be acrylic copolymers, copolymer latex, styrenic copolymers, styrene-butadiene copolymers, vinyl copolymers, polyurethanes, sulfopolyesters, or combinations thereof. Sulfopolyester may include any polyester comprising a sulfomonomer.

In some embodiments, the bonding agent may comprise but is not limited to a resin bonding agent such as a starch, casein, a cellulose derivative, a powder adhesive bonding agent, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the bonding agent may enhance one or more properties of the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the bonding agent may enhance dry tensile strength, wet tensile strength, tear force. In some embodiments, the bonding agent may be hydrophilic. In some embodiments, the bonding agent may be hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the bonding agent may make up at least about 0.1, 0.02. 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 25, 30, or at least about 40 weight percent of the insulation layer 30.

In some embodiments, fibrous materials may be produced by total saturation of dry laid web of fibers in a suitable adhesive. In some embodiments, the fibers may be immersed in a bath containing adhesives, where the amount taken up by the web may be controlled by the concentration of the adhesive in the bath and by the degree of squeezing applied to the impegrated material. In some embodiments, dry laid webs may be parallel laid, cross laid or randomly laid.

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be bonded by hydroentangling with water jets (spunlaced or hydroentangling).

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be bonded by processing the webs through a hot air oven (airlaid or thru-airbonded).

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials may be bonded by stitched bonding.

In some embodiments, the one or more fibers may be bonded into a nonwoven insulation layer 30.

Woven

In some embodiments, the fibrous materials of the insulation layer 30 may be woven. There are literally hundreds of variations of weave patterns commonly used in the textile industry, and those of ordinary skill in the art are familiar with the patterns.

In some embodiments, the woven fabric may include, but is not limited to, weaves such as plain weaves, basket weaves, rep or rib weaves, twill weaves (e.g., straight twill, reverse twill, herringbone twill), leno weave, a mock leno weave, satin weaves, double weaves (e.g., double-width, tubular double weave, reversed double weave) or combinations thereof.

The woven fabric material may be woven in any suitable manner known by one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the fabric may be woven on, but not limited to a table loom, a floor loom, a jacquard loom, a counterbalance loom, a jack loom, or an upright loom, a floor loom or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments the woven fibers are bonded by methods known by one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the woven fibers are treated or bonded by any method disclosed herein.

Heating

In some embodiments, after producing the insulation layer 30, the insulation layer 30 may undergo a heat setting step comprising heating the insulation layer 30 to a temperature of at least about 50, about 60, about 70, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, or at least about 120° C. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be heated to least about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, or at least about 30° C. In some embodiments, after adding an optional bonding agent, the insulation layer 30 may undergo a heat setting step comprising heating the insulation layer 30 to a temperature of at least about 50, about 60, about 70, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, or at least about 120° C. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be heated to least about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, or at least about 30° C. In some embodiments, after adding an optional coating, the insulation layer 30 may undergo a heat setting step comprising heating the insulation layer 30 to a temperature of at least about 50, about 60, about 70, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, or at least about 120° C. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be heated to least about 120, about 130, about 140, 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, or at least about 30° C. In some embodiments, the heat setting step may relax out internal fiber stresses and may aids in producing a dimensionally stable insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, an odor neutralizer may be dispersed through the fibrous material during the heat treatment to reduce the presence of undesirable odors. These odor neutralizing agents may comprise organic, food safe substances and may be atomized for effective transportation through the hot air stream. To assist in the even dispersion of the odor neutralizing agent through the material, a pressure gradient may be formed within the oven by placing fans above the material and vacuums underneath.

Insulation Layer Properties

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may have a thickness ranging from about 0.10 centimeter (“cm”) to about 30 cm. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 have a thickness of about 0.10, about 0.15, about 0.20, about 0.25, about 0.30, about 0.40, about 0.50, about 0.60, about 0.70, about 0.80, about 0.90, about 1.0, about 1.10, about 1.20, about 1.30, about 1.40, about 1.50, about 1.60, about 1.70, about 1.80, about 1.90, about 2.00, about 2.50, about 3.00, about 3.50, about 4.00, about 5.0, about 6.0, about 7.0, about 8.0, about 9.0, about 10.0, about 11.0, about 11.5, about 12.0, about 12.5, about 13.0, about 13.5, about 14.0, about 14.5, about 15.0, about 15.5, about 16.0, about 16.5, about 17.0, about 17.5, about 18.0, about 18.5, about 19.0, about 19.5, about 20.0, about 21.0, about 22.0, about 23.0, about 24.0, about 25.0, about 26.0, about 27.0, about 28.0, about 29.0, or about 30.0 cm.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may have a length ranging from about 12 cm to about 300 cm. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 have a length of about 12, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, or about 300 cm.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may have a width ranging from about 12 cm to about 300 cm. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may have a width of about 12, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, or about 300 cm. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be to a specific length and width as needed.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise a density ranging from about 10 or 15 g/m²to about 5000 g/m². In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may have a density of about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, about 300, about 400, about 500, about 600, about 700, about 800, about 900, about 10 or 150, about 110 or 15, about 130, about 1300, about 1400, about 1500, about 1600, about 1700, about 1800, about 1900, about 300, about 210 or 15, about 230, about 2300, about 2400, about 2500, about 2600, about 2700, about 2800, about 2900, about 3000, about 3500, about 4000, or about 5000 g/m².

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may further comprise one or more additives. In some embodiments, the one or more additives may be added in any one or more steps of producing the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the additives may include but are not limited to, starches, fillers, light and heat stabilizers, antistatic agents, extrusion aids, dyes, anticounterfeiting markers, slip agents, tougheners, adhesion promoters, oxidative stabilizers, UV absorbers, colorants, pigments, opacifiers (delustrants), optical brighteners, fillers, nucleating agents, flame retardants, softeners, plasticizers, viscosity modifiers, surface modifiers, antimicrobials, antifoams, lubricants, thermostabilizers, emulsifiers, disinfectants, water repellent, cold flow inhibitors, branching agents, oils, oil extracts, waxes, cleaning agents, detergents, odor control agents and catalysts.

In some embodiments, the oils may comprise one or more of oils from thyme (thymol, carvacrol), oregano (carvacrol, terpenes), lemon (limonene, terpinene, phellandrene, pinene, citral), lemongrass (citral, methylheptenone, citronellal, geraniol), orange flower (linalool, β-pinene, limonene), orange (limonene, citral), anise (anethole, safrol), clove (eugenol, eugenyl acetate, caryophyllene), rose (geraniol, citronellol), rosemary (borneol, bornyl esters, camphor), geranium (geraniol, citronellol, linalool), lavender (linalyl acetate, linalool), citronella (geraniol, citronellol, citronellal, camphene), eucalyptus (eucalyptol); peppermint (menthol, menthyl esters), spearmint (carvone, limonene, pinene); wintergreen (methyl salicylate), camphor (safrole, acetaldehyde, camphor), bay (eugenol, myrcene, chavicol), cinnamon (cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, eugenol), tea tree (terpinen-4-ol, cineole), and cedar leaf (α-thujone, β-thujone, fenchone).

In some embodiments, an odor neutralizer may be dispersed through the insulating layer to reduce the presence of undesirable odors. These odor neutralizing agents may comprise organic, food safe substances and may be atomized for effective transportation through the hot air stream. To assist in the even dispersion of the odor neutralizing agent through the material, a pressure gradient may be formed within the oven by placing fans above the material and vacuums underneath.

In some embodiments, oil extract may be oils dissolved in one or more of ethyl alcohol, glycerol, propylene glycol, water, a sweetening agent, a food color or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may comprise at least about 0.05 to about 70 weight percent of one or more additives. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be at least about 0.05, about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.5, about 2.0, about 2.5, about 3.0, about 3.5, about 4.0, about 4.5, about 5.0, about 5.5, about 6.0, about 6.5, about 7.0, about 8.0, about 9.0, about 10, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 60, or at least about 70 weight percent of one or more additives.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may have a thermal conductivity ranging from about 0.001 W/mK to about 4 W/mK. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.001, 0.002, 0.003, 0.004, 0.005, 0.006, 0.007, 0.008, 0.009, 0.01, 0.011, 0.012, 0.013, 0.014, 0.015, 0.016, 0.017, 0.018, 0.019, 0.02, 0.021, 0.022, 0.023, 0.024, 0.025, 0.026, 0.027, 0.028, 0.029, 0.030, 0.031, 0.032, 0.033, 0.034, 0.035, 0.036, 0.037, 0.038, 0.039, 0.04, 0.041, 0.042, 0.043, 0.044, 0.045, 0.046, 0.047, 0.048, 0.049, 0.05, 0.051, 0.052, 0.053, 0.056, 0.057, 0.058, 0.059, 0.6, 0.061, 0.062, 0.063, 0.064, 0.065, 0.066, 0.067, 0.068, 0.069, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, 0.65, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.95, 1, 1.01, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, or about 4 W/mK.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may include one or more insulation layers 30. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may comprise about 1 to about 50 insulation layers 30. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 comprises about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, or about 50 insulation layers 30. In some embodiments, the additional insulation layers 30 may serve as strength reinforcement. In some embodiments, the additional insulation layers 30 may serve as an aid for bonding. In some embodiments, the additional insulation layers 30 may include woven or non-woven, natural or synthetic, components or fibers. In some embodiments, the additional insulation layers 30 may provide enhanced dimensional stability to the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 structure. In some embodiments, one or more insulation layers 30 may be stacked together. In some embodiments, portions of the insulation layers 30 may be stacked together.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure may be used as a cooler. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may comprise one or more flaps for sealing the insulated enclosure 10 or 15. In some embodiments, the flaps may be attached to the insulated enclosure. In some embodiments, the flaps may be a portion of the insulation layer. The flaps may be movable from a closed state to an open state. The flaps may be movable form an open state to a close state. The flaps may comprise nonwoven and/or woven fibers. The flaps may be flexible or rigid. The flaps may comprise natural fibers such as jute fibers. The flaps may comprise synthetic fibers. The flaps may comprise recycled fibers such as post-consumer and/or pre-consumer recycled fibers. The flaps may be attached to the insulated enclosure by adhesive, pressure sensitive adhesive, tapes, zippers, zip-lock, hooks, buttons, friction, solder, pins, clips, hook and loop fastener, among others. The flaps may be woven or nonwoven into the insulated enclosure by any method disclosed here in. The flaps may be closed from an open state by adhesive, pressure sensitive adhesive, tapes, zippers, zip-lock, hooks, buttons, friction, solder, pins, clips, hook and loop fastener, among others. The flaps may be manufactured in a process similar to that of the insulation layer disclosed herein. The flaps may share the properties of the insulation layer as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the flaps may be a portion of the inner layer, outer layer or barrier. In some embodiments, the flaps may share the properties of the inner layer, outer layer or barrier. In some embodiments, the flaps may be covered by an inner layer and an outer layer. In some embodiments, the flap may comprise at least 1 slot. In some embodiments, the flap can comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or at least 10 slots.

Inner and Outer Layers

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may not be enclosed between an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be enclosed in an inner layer 25 and/or an outer layer 20 thus forming the insulated enclosure 10 or 15. In some embodiments, a portion of the insulation layer 30 may be covered by an inner layer 25 and/or an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the insulation layer 30 may be covered by an inner layer 25 and/or an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be partially enclosed in an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be fully enclosed in an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, enclosing or covering the insulation layer 30 may be accomplished with a sealer. In some embodiments, a sealer may seal the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20 around the insulation layer 30.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may contain at least one seal. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may contain at least about 1 to at least about 50 seals. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 contains at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, or at least about 50 seals.

In some embodiments, the sealer may be a vacuum valve sealer, heat sealer or radiofrequency welder, tape, adhesives, sealants, zip-locks, zippers, mechanical closure or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sealer may be a fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or an outer layer 20 may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may loosely enclose the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may tightly enclose the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be flexible. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be pliable, bendable, or gives way easily under pressure. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be one that is capable of being bent or flexed repeatedly without significant damage. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and outer layer 20 may be hydrophilic, hydrophobic, hygroscopic, and or electrically conductive.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 can comprise one or more fibrous materials disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise polyamides such as nylon, KEVLAR®, and the like, TEFLON®, polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate, poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(β-malic acid) (PMLA), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(ρ-dioxanone) (PDS), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), and the like, Dacron, acrylics, Orlon, Acrilan, Dynel, polyolefins, such as, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, and the like, (including atactic, isotactic, syndiotactic and impact modified versions thereof) and poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), vinylidene chloride, saran, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, neoprene or polychloroprene, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET), leather, canvas, bicomponent sheath-core fibers, multi-component fibers, and the like, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer fibers, carbon fibers, silicon nitride fibers, and the like, alone or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 can be derived from plastic materials.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 are comprised of the same material. In some embodiments the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 are comprised of different materials. Any single or combination of disclosed embodiments may be applied to either the inner layer 25 or the outer layer 20.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be a coating. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be subjected to drying, and the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 coating may be applied to the insulation layer 30.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may comprise a decorative coating, a printing ink, an adhesive coating, and/or a heat seal coating. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a liquid impermeable substance and/or a microbial substance. In some embodiments, the microbial substance may be an antimicrobial, antibiotic, antiviral, antiparasitic, antiamoebic, antifungal, or antiprotozoal materials and/or compounds.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be paper. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be Kraft paper. Kraft paper is a paper made by a Kraft pulping process wherein the paper consists of a web of pulp fibers (normally from wood or other plant fibers), and may be formed from an aqueous slurry on a wire or screen, and may be held together by hydrogen bonding. Kraft paper may also contain a variety of additives and fillers. See, for example, Handbook of Pulping and Papermaking, Christopher Bierman, Academic Press, 1996. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with petroleum plastics. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with biodegradable polymers that behave like plastics. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with PHA Latex. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with resins derived from sugarcane. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with resins derived from cornstarch. In some embodiments, the Kraft paper barrier can be coated with resins derived from any resins that is derived from a biological material that is known in the art.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may reflect radiant heat. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be tear resistant. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be non-porous. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be leak proof. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be heat sealed. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be welded. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be sealed with a sterile polyethylene pouch material. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise one or more materials that may be compatible with conventional printing techniques. In some embodiments, the inner and the outer layers may comprise but are not limited to, thermoplastic polymers, such as metallic polyethylene terephthalate (METPET), and various reflective or metallic foils. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise films derived from hydrocarbons or other materials. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be printed with advertising information, artwork or any other indicia as desired. In some embodiments, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed as a mirror image or reversed image. In some embodiments, the inner and outer layers may be printed with mirror imaged advertising information, artwork or any other indicia and may be flipped to be read in the correct sense. In some embodiment, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed in the correct sense. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise any one or more fibers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise fibers consolidated or bonded by any method known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise woven, nonwoven, weaved, knitted, laced, felted, braided, plaited fibers or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise virgin material. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% virgin material.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be transparent. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be substantially transparent. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may not be transparent. In some embodiment the inner layer 25 and outer layer 20 may comprise pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the inner layer and the outer layer may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 10 or 15% post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the inner and outer layers may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 10 or 15% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be compostable. In some embodiments, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 10 or 15% of the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may decompose within the range about 1 to about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and outer layer 20 may decomposes within about 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 8 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks, 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks, 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks, 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks, 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks, 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks, 36 weeks, 37 weeks, 38 weeks, 39 weeks, 40 weeks, 41 weeks, 42 weeks, 43 weeks, 44 weeks, 45 weeks, 46 weeks, 47 weeks, 48 weeks, 49 weeks, or about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and outer layer 20 may decompose within at least 50 weeks.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may comprise within the range of about 1 to about 99 weight percent of the insulated enclosure 10 or 15. In some embodiments, the inner layer and the outer layer may be about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 10 or 15 weight percent of the insulated enclosure 10 or 15.

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be the same shape as the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be substantially the same shape as the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may not be substantially the same shape as the layer 30. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may be a polygonal box form.

MIL is one thousandth of an inch and measures the thickness. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may have a thickness ranging from about 0.5 MIL to about 10 MIL. 1 MIL is equal to 0.0254 millimeter. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may have a thickness of about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1, about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about 3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about 4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6, about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, or about 10 MIL.

In other embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 may have a thickness ranging from about 1 cm to about 300 cm. In some embodiments the inner layer 25 and/or outer layer 20 have a thickness of about 12, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, or about 300 cm.

Barriers

In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may not be enclosed in a barrier. In some embodiments, a barrier may enhance water resistance. In some embodiments, a barrier may enhance tear strength. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be enclosed in a barrier. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be covered by a barrier. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the inner layer 25 may be covered by a barrier. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the outer layer 20 can be covered by a barrier. In some embodiments, a portion of the insulation layer 30 may be covered by a barrier. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 can be enclosed in a barrier. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be partially enclosed in a barrier. In some embodiments, the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be fully enclosed in a barrier. In some embodiments, enclosing or covering the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20 may be accomplished with a sealer. In some embodiments, enclosing or covering the insulation layer 30 can be accomplished with a sealer. In some embodiments, a sealer may seal the barrier onto or around the inner layer 25 and/or the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, a sealer can seal the barrier onto or around the insulation layer 30.

In some embodiments, the barrier may contain at least one seal. In some embodiments, the barrier may contain at least about 1 to at least about 50 seals. In some embodiments, the barrier contains at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, or at least about 50 seals.

In some embodiments, the sealer may be a vacuum valve sealer, heat sealer or radiofrequency welder, tape, adhesives, sealants, zip-locks, zippers, mechanical closure or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sealer may be a fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material.

In some embodiments, the barrier may loosely enclose the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the barrier may loosely enclose the inner layer 25. In some embodiments, the barrier may loosely enclose the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the barrier may tightly enclose the insulation layer 30. In some embodiments, the barrier may tightly enclose the inner layer 25. In some embodiments, the barrier may tightly enclose the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the barrier may be flexible. In some embodiments, the barrier may be pliable, bendable, or gives way easily under pressure. In some embodiments, the barrier may be one that is capable of being bent or flexed repeatedly without significant damage. In some embodiments, the barrier may be hydrophilic, hydrophobic, hygroscopic, and or electrically conductive.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be a coating. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a decorative coating, a printing ink, an adhesive coating, and/or a heat seal coating. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a liquid impermeable substance and/or a microbial substance. In some embodiments, the microbial substance may be an antimicrobial, antibiotic, antiviral, antiparasitic, antiamoebic, antifungal, or antiprotozoal materials and/or compounds.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be paper. In some embodiments, the barrier may be Kraft paper. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise fluted paper laminated between higher density paperboard components.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may reflect radiant heat. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be tear resistant. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be non-porous. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be leak proof. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be heat sealed. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be welded. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be sealed with a sterile polyethylene pouch material. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more materials that may be compatible with conventional printing techniques. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise but is not limited to, thermoplastic polymers, such as metallic polyethylene terephthalate (METPET), and various reflective or metallic foils. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise films derived from hydrocarbons or other materials. In some embodiments, the barrier may be printed with advertising information, artwork or any other indicia as desired. In some embodiments, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed as a mirror image or reversed image. In some embodiments, the barrier may be printed with mirror imaged advertising information, artwork or any other indicia and may be flipped to be read in the correct sense. In some embodiment, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed in the correct sense. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise any one or more fibers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise fibers consolidated or bonded by any method known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise woven, nonwoven, weaved, knitted, laced, felted, braided, plaited fibers or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise virgin material. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% virgin material.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be transparent. In some embodiments, the barrier may be substantially transparent. In some embodiments, the barrier may not be transparent. In some embodiment the barrier may comprise pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the barrier can comprise repulpable material.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 100% post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be biodegradable. In some embodiments, a barrier may degrade upon exposure to the conditions of temperature and humidity commonly encountered in municipal compost. In some embodiments, an insulating layer may degrade upon exposure to the conditions of temperature and humidity commonly encountered in household compost. In some embodiments, the barrier may be about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% biodegradable under municipal or household compost conditions.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% biodegradable.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be compostable. In some embodiments, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% of the barrier may decompose within the range about 1 to about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the barrier may decomposes within about 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 8 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks, 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks, 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks, 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks, 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks, 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks, 36 weeks, 37 weeks, 38 weeks, 39 weeks, 40 weeks, 41 weeks, 42 weeks, 43 weeks, 44 weeks, 45 weeks, 46 weeks, 47 weeks, 48 weeks, 49 weeks, or about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the barrier may decompose within at least 50 weeks.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise within the range of about 1 to about 99 weight percent of the insulated bag 15 or insulated sleeve 10. In some embodiments, the barrier may be about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100 weight percent of the insulated bag 15 or insulated sleeve 10.

MIL is one thousandth of an inch and measures the thickness. In some embodiments, the barrier may have a thickness ranging from about 0.5 MIL to about 10 MIL. In some embodiments, the barrier may have a thickness of about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1, about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about 3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about 4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6, about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, or about 10 MIL. In some embodiments, the barrier may have a thickness of at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, or at least 60 MIL.

In other embodiments, the barrier may have a thickness ranging from about 1 cm to about 300 cm. In some embodiments barrier have a thickness of about 12, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, or about 300 cm.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise renewable, biobased, biodegradable latex. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer may be a biodegradable polymer. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may include a polymer that may be obtained from renewable monomers, polymers which may be obtained from renewable natural sources (e.g., starch, sugars, lipids, corn, sugar beet, wheat, sugarcane, castor oil plant, rapeseed, wood, or other starch-rich products etc.). In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may include plant resins. The present invention is not limited to any particular plant resin. Indeed, a variety of plant resins are contemplated, the resins can be obtained from a plant including but not limited to a flowering plant, a vegetable plant, a crop plant, an herb plant, a shrub plant, and a tree plant. In some embodiments, the plant can be selected from the group of a Brassica carinata, Crambe abyssinica, corn (Zea mays), canola (Brassica napus), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), rice (Oryza sativa), rye (Secale cereale), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), millet (Pennisetum glaucum), sunflower (Helianthus annuus), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), wheat (Triticum aestivum), soybean (Glycine max), tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), potato (Solanum tuberosum), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatus), cassava (Manihot esculenta), coffee (Coffea spp.), bamboo, coconut (Cocos nucifera), pineapple (Ananas comosus), citrus (Citrus spp.), cocoa (Theobroma cacao), tea (Camellia sinensis), banana (Musa spp.), avocado (Persea americana), fig (Ficus casica), guava (Psidium guajava), mango (Mangifera indica), olive (Olea europaea), papaya (Carica papaya), cashew (Anacardium occidentale), macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia), almond (Prunus amygdalus), sugar beets (Beta vulgaris), sugarcane (Saccharum spp.), oats, barley, Cork Oak (Quercus suber), Aspen (Populus tremula), Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). In some embodiments, the plant can be selected from the group of a Brassicaceae species, Nicotiana species, a Solanum species, a Gossypium species, or a Botryococcus species. In some embodiments, the crop plant can be selected from the group of a mustard, tobacco, potato, cotton, sunflower, corn, safflower, rice, or algae. In some embodiments, the flowering plant can be an Arabidopsis sp. plant.

Examples of plant resins include but are not limited to amber, Balm of Gilead, balsam, Canada balsam, Boswellia, copal from trees of Protium copal and Hymenaea courbaril, dammar gum from trees of the family Dipterocarpaceae, Dragon's blood from the dragon trees (Dracaena species), elemi, frankincense from Boswellia sacra, galbanum from Ferula gummosa, gum guaiacum from the lignum vitae trees of the genus Guaiacum, kauri gum from trees of Agathis austral's, labdanum from mediterranean species of Cistus, mastic (plant resin) from the mastic tree Pistacia lentiscus, myrrh from shrubs of Commiphora, sandarac resin from Tetraclinis articulata, styrax (a Benzoin resin from various Styrax species), Spinifex resin from Australian Spinifex grasses, and turpentine, distilled from pine resin.

In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer comprise polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a copolymer. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a homopolymer. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a heteropolymer.

In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be without limitation a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates (or PLA), polymalates (or PMA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (or PHA), polycaprolactones (or PCL), polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters (PBAT), celluloses or starches which are highly acetylated or rendered hydrophobic by introduction of fixed fatty chains, taken alone or in combination, in the form of homopolymers or heteropolymers, whether linear, branched, crosslinked, dendritic or grafted.

Polyhydroxyalkanoates are biopolyesters with various side chains and fatty acids with hydroxyl groups at the 4- or 5-position. They consist of (R)-3-hydroxy fatty acids. In some embodiments the polyhydroxyalkanoates may be a short chain length hydroxyalkanoic acids (PHA_SCL) with an alkyl side chain. PHA_SCLcontain 3-5 carbon atoms, for example poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB), poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB). In some embodiments, the polyhydroxyalkanotes may be medium chain length hydroxyalkanoic acids (PHA_MCL) with alkyl side chains. PHA_MCLcontain 6-14 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the polyhydroxyalkanotes may be long chain length (PHA_LCL) obtained from long chain fatty acids, which contain more than 14 carbon atoms. The monomer composition, macromolecular structure and physical chemical properties of PHAs vary. More than 150 different monomers may be combined within this family to give materials with extremely different properties. In some embodiments, the monomers may be 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HBA). In some embodiments, the monomers may be 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HVA). In some embodiments, the PHA may be a copolymer. In some embodiments, the copolymer may be Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), commonly known as PHBV.

In some embodiments, the polyhdyroxyalkanoates may comprise high molecular weights (for example, about 300,000 to about 800,000 Daltons (e.g., 350,000 Daltons; 400,000 Daltons; 450,000 Daltons; 500,000 Daltons; 550,000 Daltons; 600,000 Daltons; 650,000 Daltons; or 700,000 Daltons; 750,000 Daltons) with high melt temperatures of about 160° C. to about 170° C.). U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,201,083 and 9,085,688 are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference thereto for all purposes.

In some embodiments, an aqueous polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) emulsion from a biobased, biodegradable PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof can be produced by, melting the PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof to form a molten PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof; lowering the temperature of the molten PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof to about 20° C. to about 50° C. below the melting temperature of the highest melting polymer component of the PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof to obtain a lower-temperature PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof; combining the lower-temperature PHA polymer, copolymer or blend thereof and an aqueous colloid stabilizer solution heated to about 60° C. to about 90° C. under high distributive mixing thereby forming a water-in-PHA emulsion; lowering the temperature of the water-in-PHA emulsion by about 20° C. to about 50° C.; and adding water and optionally one or more polymeric dispersants or surfactants producing an aqueous PHA emulsion having a ratio of colloid stabilizer to PHA polymer of 0.1 to 8 parts to 100 parts by dry weight PHA polymer.

In some embodiments, latexes can be produced from biobased, biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polyester for example by forming a PHA suspension from biomass containing the PHA using an aqueous recovery process involving cell digestion, washing with surfactant/peroxide followed by microfluidization, centrifugation and re-suspension of the PHA particles in water and producing an amorphous PHA latex by heating the suspension under pressure to 190° C.-200° C. (25° C. above melt temperature of PHA) followed by rapid cooling.

In some embodiments, a biobased, biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) latex can be produced initially by melting at least one PHA polymer or copolymer at a temperature above its highest melting temperature e.g., at about 160° C. to about 170° C., producing a melt which has a viscosity of about 800 Pas to 2500 Pas, and then optionally adding other polymer materials, plasticizers, emulsification additives or fillers producing a homogeneous molten composition; the temperature of the molten mass is then lowered, with continuous mixing, to a temperature about 20° C. to about 50° C. below the melting temperature of the highest melting polymer component e.g., about 120° C. to about 140° C. and then an aqueous solution containing colloid stabilizers can be added into the molten PHA which then undergoes a high shear or high distributive mixing event to produce a water-in-PHA dispersion; a second aqueous solution containing only water or pH adjusting aids and optionally more colloid stabilizers (same or different from the first step aqueous addition) can then be added to the water-in-PHA emulsion which then undergoes another high shear or high distributive mixing event producing a PHA-in-water emulsion; the temperature of the dispersion can be lowered to about 80° C. and finally dispensing the formed latex (aqueous PHA emulsion) below about 40° C.

Polylactates (PLA) is a common biodegradable polymer derived from lactate. In some embodiments, the polylactate may comprise the monomers lactic acid. In some embodiments, the polylactate may comprise the cyclic di-ester, lactide.

In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be heteropolymers. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymers may be di-, tri- or tetrapolymers. In some embodiments, the monomers of which may be diols, caprolactones or acids and hydroxy acids, for example but not limited to D-lactic, L-lactic, glycolic, tetramethylglycolic, malic, β-propiolactic, butyric, valeric, phthalic, terephthalic, succinic, adipic, sebacic, hexanoic, octanoic, decanoic, dodecanoic, tetradecanoic, hexadecanoic or octadecanoic acids. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymers may be random, alternating, sequential or block heteropolymers.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be applied by a powder coating approach, casting, spraying, dipping or immersing, by the use of brushes, rollers, blocks or other instruments. In some embodiments, the barrier may be applied by air knife coating, blade coating, metering roll coating, gravure coating, rod coating, curtain coating, bath coating.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise wax, or polyethylene film. In some embodiments, wax may be used to improve moisture resistance properties of the barrier. In some embodiments, wax may be used to reduce the barrier's coefficient of friction, and/or to reduce brittleness of the barrier. In some embodiments, the wax may be, without limitation, for example, carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

In some embodiments, the barrier may be applied in at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least about 10 steps. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise one or more layers. In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least 10 layers. In some embodiments, a first barrier layer may comprise a different composition compare to a second barrier layer. In some embodiments, a first barrier layer may comprise the same composition as a second barrier layer.

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a polymer selected from the group comprising, without limitation acrylic polymers, acrylic copolymers, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, poly-ethylene vinyl acetate, poly-ethylene vinyl chloride, styrene butadiene copolymers, polyvinylidiene chloride, or starch.

In some embodiments, the barrier disclosed herein may comprise a polymer blend. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may be a first polymer blended with another polymer to form a latex. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may comprise one or more biodegradable polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may comprise use of a melt blending process. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise polycaprolactone having a molecular weight from about 1000 to 1,000,000 Daltons. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise aliphatic polyesters derived from a diol and diacid comprising at least one diol selected from ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, butane diol, 1,2-hexane diol, 1,3-propylene glycol and at least one diacid selected from adipic acid, succinic acid, terephthalic acid or furan dicarboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise one or more polymers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the blend may comprise one or more polymers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the aforementioned polymers may be combined with other materials to impart specific characteristics to the barrier.

Barrier Coating

In some embodiments, the barrier may comprise a coating. In some embodiments, a coating may enhance water resistance. In some embodiments, a coating may enhance tear strength. In some embodiments, the barrier can be enclosed in a coating. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material.

In some embodiments, the coating may loosely enclose the barrier or parts thereof. In some embodiments, the coating may tightly enclose the barrier. In some embodiments, the coating may be flexible. In some embodiments, the coating may be pliable, bendable, or gives way easily under pressure. In some embodiments, the coating may be one that is capable of being bent or flexed repeatedly without significant damage. In some embodiments, the coating may be hydrophilic, hydrophobic, hygroscopic, and or electrically conductive.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a decorative coating, a printing ink, an adhesive coating, and/or a heat seal coating. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a liquid impermeable substance and/or a microbial substance. In some embodiments, the microbial substance may be an antimicrobial, antibiotic, antiviral, antiparasitic, antiamoebic, antifungal, or antiprotozoal materials and/or compounds.

In some embodiments, the coating may be paper. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may reflect radiant heat. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be tear resistant. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be non-porous. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be leak proof. In some embodiments, the coating is leak proof. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be heat sealed. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be welded. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be sealed with a sterile polyethylene pouch material. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more materials that may be compatible with conventional printing techniques. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise but is not limited to, thermoplastic polymers, such as metallic polyethylene terephthalate (METPET), and various reflective or metallic foils. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise films derived from hydrocarbons or other materials. In some embodiments, the coating may be printed with advertising information, artwork or any other indicia as desired. In some embodiments, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed as a mirror image or reversed image. In some embodiments, the coating may be printed with mirror imaged advertising information, artwork or any other indicia and may be flipped to be read in the correct sense. In some embodiment, advertising information, artwork or any other indicia may be printed in the correct sense. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise any one or more fibers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise fibers consolidated or bonded by any method known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise woven, nonwoven, weaved, knitted, laced, felted, braided, plaited fibers or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise virgin material. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% virgin material.

In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with petroleum plastics. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with biodegradable polymers that behave like plastics. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with PHA Latex. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with resins derived from sugarcane. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with resins derived from cornstarch. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coated with resins derived from any resins that is derived from a biological material that is known in the art.

In some embodiments, the coating may be transparent. In some embodiments, the coating may be substantially transparent. In some embodiments, the coating may not be transparent. In some embodiment the coating may comprise pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise within the range of about 0% to about 100% post-consumer recycled materials. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise about 0, about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100% pre-consumer recycled materials.

In some embodiments, the coating may be compostable. In some embodiments, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, about 30%, about 31%, about 32%, about 33%, about 34%, about 35%, about 36%, about 37%, about 38%, about 39%, about 40%, about 41%, about 42%, about 43%, about 44%, about 45%, about 46%, about 47%, about 48%, about 49%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100% of the coating may decompose within the range about 1 to about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the coating may decomposes within about 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 8 weeks, 9 weeks, 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks, 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks, 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks, 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks, 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks, 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks, 36 weeks, 37 weeks, 38 weeks, 39 weeks, 40 weeks, 41 weeks, 42 weeks, 43 weeks, 44 weeks, 45 weeks, 46 weeks, 47 weeks, 48 weeks, 49 weeks, or about 50 weeks. In some embodiments, the coating may decompose within at least 50 weeks.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise within the range of about 1 to about 99 weight percent of the insulated bag 15 or insulated sleeve 10. In some embodiments, the coating may be about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, or about 100 weight percent of the insulated bag 15 or insulated sleeve 10.

In some embodiments, the coating may have a thickness ranging from about 0.5 MIL to about 10 MIL. In some embodiments, the coating may have a thickness of about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, about 1.0, about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.3, about 1.4, about 1.5, about 1.6, about 1.7, about 1.8, about 1.9, about 2.0, about 2.1, about 2.2, about 2.3, about 2.4, about 2.5, about 2.6, about 2.7, about 2.8, about 2.9, about 3.0, about 3.1, about 3.2, about 3.3, about 3.4, about 3.5, about 3.6, about 3.7, about 3.8, about 3.9, about 4.0, about 4.1, about 4.2, about 4.3, about 4.4, about 4.5, about 4.6, about 4.7, about 4.8, about 4.9, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, or about 10 MIL. In some embodiments, the coating may have a thickness of at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, or at least 60 MIL.

In other embodiments, the coating may have a thickness ranging from about 1 cm to about 300 cm. In some embodiments coating have a thickness of about 12, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 30, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, about 250, about 260, about 270, about 280, about 290, or about 300 cm.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise renewable, biobased, biodegradable latex. In some embodiments, the coating can comprise a plastic. In some embodiments, the plastic can comprise petroleum plastics. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer may be a biodegradable polymer. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may include a polymer that may be obtained from renewable monomers, polymers which may be obtained from renewable natural sources (e.g., starch, sugars, lipids, corn, sugar beet, wheat, sugarcane, castor oil plant, rapeseed, wood, or other starch-rich products etc.). In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may include plant resins. The present invention is not limited to any particular plant resin. Indeed, a variety of plant resins are contemplated, the resins can be obtained from a plant including but not limited to a flowering plant, a vegetable plant, a crop plant, an herb plant, a shrub plant, and a tree plant. In some embodiments, the plant can be selected from the group of a Brassica carinata, Crambe abyssinica, corn (Zea mays), canola (Brassica napus), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), rice (Oryza sativa), rye (Secale cereale), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), millet (Pennisetum glaucum), sunflower (Helianthus annuus), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), wheat (Triticum aestivum), soybean (Glycine max), tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), potato (Solanum tuberosum), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatus), cassava (Manihot esculenta), coffee (Coffea spp.), bamboo, coconut (Cocos nucifera), pineapple (Ananas comosus), citrus (Citrus spp.), cocoa (Theobroma cacao), tea (Camellia sinensis), banana (Musa spp.), avocado (Persea americana), fig (Ficus casica), guava (Psidium guajava), mango (Mangifera indica), olive (Olea europaea), papaya (Carica papaya), cashew (Anacardium occidentale), macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia), almond (Prunus amygdalus), sugar beets (Beta vulgaris), sugarcane (Saccharum spp.), oats, barley, Cork Oak (Quercus suber), Aspen (Populus tremula), Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). In some embodiments, the plant can be selected from the group of a Brassicaceae species, Nicotiana species, a Solanum species, a Gossypium species, or a Botryococcus species. In some embodiments, the crop plant can be selected from the group of a mustard, tobacco, potato, cotton, sunflower, corn, safflower, rice, or algae. In some embodiments, the flowering plant can be an Arabidopsis sp. plant.

Examples of plant resins include but are not limited to amber, Balm of Gilead, balsam, Canada balsam, Boswellia, copal from trees of Protium copal and Hymenaea courbaril, dammar gum from trees of the family Dipterocarpaceae, Dragon's blood from the dragon trees (Dracaena species), elemi, frankincense from Boswellia sacra, galbanum from Ferula gummosa, gum guaiacum from the lignum vitae trees of the genus Guaiacum, kauri gum from trees of Agathis australis, labdanum from mediterranean species of Cistus, mastic (plant resin) from the mastic tree Pistacia lentiscus, myrrh from shrubs of Commiphora, sandarac resin from Tetraclinis articulata, styrax (a Benzoin resin from various Styrax species), Spinifex resin from Australian Spinifex grasses, and turpentine, distilled from pine resin.

In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer comprise polylactic acid. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may comprise polyhydroxyalkanoates. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a copolymer. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a homopolymer. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a heteropolymer.

Examples of biobased polymers include polyethylene (PE) produced from sugarcane ethanol (Braskem's Green Polyethylene), polylactic acid (PLA) made from corn sugar (Nature Works Ingeo™ PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA's) produced by the fermentation of glucose (U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,593,116 and 6,913,911, US Patent Pub. No. 2010/0168481), which is herein incorporated by reference in the entirety.

In some embodiments, the biodegradable polymer may be without limitation a biodegradable polymers of the following types: polylactates (or PLA), polymalates (or PMA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (or PHA), polycaprolactones (or PCL), polyesteramides (PEA), aliphatic copolyesters (PBSA), aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyesters (PBAT), celluloses or starches which are highly acetylated or rendered hydrophobic by introduction of fixed fatty chains, taken alone or in combination, in the form of homopolymers or heteropolymers, whether linear, branched, crosslinked, dendritic or grafted.

In some embodiments, the coating may be applied by a powder coating approach, casting, spraying, dipping or immersing, by the use of brushes, rollers, blocks or other instruments. In some embodiments, the coating may be applied by air knife coating, blade coating, metering roll coating, gravure coating, rod coating, curtain coating, bath coating.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise wax, or polyethylene film. In some embodiments, wax may be used to improve moisture resistance properties of the coating. In some embodiments, the wax may be, without limitation, for example, carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, or paraffin.

In some embodiments, the coating may be applied in at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least about 10 steps. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise one or more layers. In some embodiments, the coating may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least 10 layers. In some embodiments, a first coating layer may comprise a different composition compare to a second coating layer. In some embodiments, a first coating layer may comprise the same composition as a second coating layer.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise a polymer selected from the group comprising, without limitation acrylic polymers, acrylic copolymers, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, poly-ethylene vinyl acetate, poly-ethylene vinyl chloride, styrene butadiene copolymers, polyvinylidiene chloride, or starch.

In some embodiments, the coating disclosed herein may comprise a polymer blend. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may be a first polymer blended with another polymer to form a latex. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may comprise one or more biodegradable polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer blend may comprise use of a melt blending process. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise polycaprolactone having a molecular weight from about 1000 to 1,000,000 Daltons. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise aliphatic polyesters derived from a diol and diacid comprising at least one diol selected from ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, butane diol, 1,2-hexane diol, 1,3-propylene glycol and at least one diacid selected from adipic acid, succinic acid, terephthalic acid or furan dicarboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the melt blend may comprise one or more polymers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the blend may comprise one or more polymers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the aforementioned polymers may be combined with other materials to impart specific characteristics to the coating.

Thermal Insulation Layer and Inner and Outer Layers

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be otherwise unattached to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the enclosure 10 or 15 can comprise multiple insulation layers, multiple inner layers, and/or multiple outer layers.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20 by various methods known in the art. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20 by lamination. Lamination is the technique of manufacturing a material in multiple layers, so that the composite material achieves improved strength, stability, sound insulation, appearance or other properties from the use of differing materials. In some embodiments, the laminate may be permanently assembled by heat, pressure, welding, or adhesives. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20 by uniting layers of material by an adhesive or other techniques disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the adhesive may be applied in various ways. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be applied in a pattern-application or spray application, or through the use of an adhesive layer, e.g., a thermoplastic adhesive scrim, which may be a web-like layer of adhesive. In some embodiments, the use of pattern-application adhesive or an adhesive scrim may achieve a similar effect within the multilayer liner of the invention herein.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20 by pinpoint embossing, needling and quilting, among others known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer 25 and an outer layer 20 by sealing such as with a hot knife, at its edges so that fluid cannot penetrate the edges. In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be joined to an inner layer and an outer layer by any one or more methods described herein.

In some embodiments, an additive may be added to the insulation layer 30 before the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20 are sealed. In some embodiments, an additive may be added between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, the additive may be one or more additives disclosed herein. In some embodiments, one or more coffee beans may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, one or more mint leaves may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, one or more oils may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, one or more oil extracts may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, one or more detergents may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, detergents may be a surfactant or a mixture of one or more surfactants. In some embodiments the detergent may be in a solid, liquid or power form. In some embodiments, the detergent may be anionic, cationic, non-ionic or zwitterionic. A number of other detergents may be used, including those disclosed in WO2011/073062 and WO2012/041774.

In some embodiments, one or more cleaning agents may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, the cleaning agent may be a liquid, powder, spray, granules or a combination there of. In some embodiments, the cleaning agent may remove dirt, dust, stains, odor, and clutter on surfaces. In some embodiments, the cleaning agent may be acidic, alkaline or neutral. In some embodiments, the cleaning agent may comprise carbon tetrachloride, ammonia, borax, sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, calcium hypochlorite, cyanuric acid, chromic acid, ethanol, methanol, chlorine, acetic acid, trisodium phosphate, sodium percarbonate, sodium perborate or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the cleaning agent may be LYSOL®

In some embodiments, one or more odor control agents may be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the inner 25 and outer 20 bags. In some embodiments, the odor control agent may be in a solid or liquid form. In some embodiments, the odor control agent may be an acrylic ester such as lauryl methacrylate, (sold under trade name METAZENE® by Pestco Company), sodium bicarbonate, benzalkonium chloride, bisulfite complexes of aldehydes and ketones, boric acid, borax, menthol, camphor, sodium bisulfate, lemon oil, and pine oil. In some embodiments, the odor control agent may be a powdered compounds such as magnesium silicates (talc), inorganic silicone and magnesium powders, sodium bicarbonate, chlorophyll, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium acid phthalates, or other powdered odor control agents known to those skilled in the art, or combinations thereof. A number of other odor control agents and cleaning agents may be used, including those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,898,727 to Osada et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,495,097 to Streit et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,710 to Ward et al.

Handles

In some embodiments, the insulated bags described herein can have at least one handle 35. In some embodiments, the insulated bags can have at least two handles, three handles, four handles, five handles or six handles. In some embodiments, the handle 35 can be affixed to the insulated bag by any method known to one of skilled in the art. The at least one handle 35 can be affixed to the insulated bag by adhesives. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be glue, double sided tape, single sided tape. In some embodiments, the at least one handle 35 can be affixed to the insulated bag by a zipper, zip-lock, hooks, buttons, staples, friction, solder, pins, clips, hook and loop fastener, sewing or any fastening methods known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the handle 35, can be affixed to the inner layer 25. In some embodiments, the handle 35, can be affixed to the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the handle 35, can be affixed between the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the handle 35, can be attached to both the inner layer 25 and the outer layer 20. In some embodiments, the handle 35 can be affixed between the inner layer 25 and the insulation layer 30 of the insulated bag 15. In some embodiments, the handle 35 can be affixed between the insulation layer 30 and the outer layer 20 of the insulated bag 15. In some embodiments, the handle can comprise any material described herein.

Planar Reinforcing Material

In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material described herein can be manufactured using one or more materials described herein. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material may be rectangular, square, or circular. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can have jagged edges, pointed edges, or rounded edges. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can have at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 100 sides. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can comprise one or more materials described herein. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material comprises fibrous materials, aluminum, steel, iron, cardboard, plastics, composite materials, wood or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material may comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material may comprise any one or more fibers disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material may comprise fibers consolidated or bonded by any method known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material may comprise woven, nonwoven, weaved, knitted, laced, felted, braided, plaited fibers or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be placed in the insulated bag. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be placed on the inner layer 25. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be placed between the inner layer 25 and the insulation layer 30 of the insulated bag 15. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be placed between the insulation layer 30 and the outer layer 20 of the insulated bag 15. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be placed on the outer layer 20 of the insulated bag 15. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be within an insulation layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be on an outside portion of an insulation layer. In some embodiments, the planar reinforcing material can be on the inner portion of an insulation layer.

Adhesive

In some embodiments, an adhesive described herein may be biodegradable. In some embodiments, an adhesive may comprise polymers. In some embodiments, a polymer may comprise at least one of a polylactate, polymalate, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyester, aliphatic-co-terephthalate copolyester, cellulose or starch. In some embodiments, an adhesive comprise cornstarch. In some embodiments, an adhesive comprise a resin. In some embodiments, an adhesive is water proof and can be a sealant when heated. In some embodiments, an adhesive may be waterproof. In some embodiments, an adhesive may be a sealant when heated or chilled.

Goods, Foodstuffs, Samples and Medical Items

The insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may enclose a payload comprised of goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items. The insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may comprise an adhesive 45 for sealing the insulated enclosure after goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items packed within the insulated enclosure. In some embodiments, the closing may be adhesive, pressure sensitive adhesive, tapes, zippers, zip-lock, hooks, buttons, friction, solder, pins, clips, hook and loop fastener, among others. The closing may be by any method disclosed herein. In some embodiments the adhesive may be double sided tape. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 side portions may be folded.

In some embodiments, the insulation layer 30 may be configured to form a pouch, bag or box for enclosing payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and/or medical items). In some embodiments, pouches, bags, or boxes may be manufactured according to any well-known method. One skilled in the art can recognize that a “pouch” means an enclosure sealed on at least two of four sides, though generally sealed on three of four sides with the fourth side being an opening. A “bag” may be a pouch, but can also include a “stand-up pouch”, comprising four sides and a rectangular bottom opposite an opening. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 has an open mouth 107. In some embodiments, a bag may comprise a gusset.

In some embodiments, after inserting the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) into the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 pouch, bag or box of the invention herein, the pouch, bag or box may be sealed or closed in various ways known to those of skill in the art. The closing may be mechanical, such as the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 flaps or side portions may be folded over and/or tucked in; and/or adhesive, such as pressure sensitive adhesive, zippers, among others. The closing may be by any method disclosed herein. In some aspects, an insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can comprise pocket on an inner or exterior portion of the enclosure 10 or 15. In some aspects, enclosure 10 or 15 can comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 20 pockets. In some embodiments, a pocket can be closed by any closing mechanism disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise perishable goods. In some embodiments, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise nonperishable goods. In some embodiments, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise temperature sensitive goods. In some embodiments, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise non temperature sensitive goods. In some embodiments, a pocket can separate a cooling or heating agent from goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items. In some embodiments, a pocket can separate a first goods, foodstuffs, samples or medical items from a second goods, foodstuff, samples or medical items.

In some embodiments, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise any number of things, including, but not limited to, bodily fluids including, but not limited to, blood, nasopharyngeal secretions, urine, serum, lymph, saliva, milk, anal and vaginal secretions, and semen of any organism. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may comprise mammalian samples taken from, including, but not limited to sheep, cow, horse, pig, goat, lama, emu, ostrich or donkey, chicken, turkey, goose, duck, game bird, human, fish, rabbit, guinea pig, rat or mouse, dog, and/or cat. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may comprise environmental samples including, but not limited to, air, agricultural, water and soil samples. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may comprise biological warfare agent samples, research samples, purified samples, such as purified genomic DNA, RNA, proteins, etc.; and raw samples (bacteria, virus, genomic DNA, etc.).

In some embodiments, the payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items) may comprise food products. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides a sample comprising raw food products, fresh food products, cooled or frozen food products, or products that are generally heated prior to consumption. In some embodiments, the food product could be partially cooked. In some embodiments, the food product could be cooked but may require additional heating prior to consumption. In some embodiments, the food product could be partially cooked. In some embodiments, the food product could be cooked but may require additional heating prior to consumption. In some embodiments, the food product may comprise meats, poultry, fish, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. In some embodiments the food product may include meats (beef, pork, lamb, rabbit and/or goat), poultry, wild game (pheasant, partridge, boar and/or bison), fish, vegetables (veggie-patties, veggie hamburgers), combinations of vegetables and meat, egg products (quiches, custards, cheesecakes) and/or baked goods (batters, doughs, cakes, breads, muffins, biscuits, cupcakes, pancakes and the like whether baked, raw or partially baked).

In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may be less than or equal to about 25 kilograms (kg) by weight. In some aspects, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items is about 0.1, about 0.2, about 0.3, about 0.4, about 0.5, about 0.6, about 0.7, about 0.8, about 0.9, 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16 s, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, or about 25 kg. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may be less than 1 kg

In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may be greater than or equal to about 25 kg by weight. In some embodiments the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items is about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, or about 55 kg. In some aspects, the sample is greater than 55 kg by weight.

Container

The payload (i.e. goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items) may be placed in the cavity of the insulated enclosure. In some embodiments the insulated enclosure containing payload may be placed in a container. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may not be placed in a container. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be placed in a container. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be the same size as the container it will be placed in. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be the same shape as the container it will be placed in. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be larger than the container it will be placed in. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be a different shape than the container it will be placed in. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 fits in a portion of the container it will be placed in. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 fits completely in the container it will be placed in.

In some embodiments, the container may be reusable. In some embodiments, the container may be single use. In some embodiments, the container may comprise steel. In some embodiments, the container may be a corrugated box. In some embodiments, the container may comprise wood. In some embodiments, the container may be a crate. In some embodiments, the container may comprise a plastic. In some embodiments, the container may comprise a composite. In some embodiments, the container may comprise stainless steel. In some embodiments, the container may comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, the container may be made of any one or more fibers disclosed here in. In some embodiments, the container may be flexible. In some embodiments, the container may be collapsible. In some embodiments, the container may be rigid. In some embodiments, the container may be substantially rigid.

In some embodiments, the container may include one or more openings for storage.

In some embodiments, the container may be secured to the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 by stitches, snaps, clips, or any method disclosed herein or may remain removable and unsecured to the insulated enclosure 10 or 15.

In some embodiments, the flexible nature of the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may enable the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 to conform to the inner dimensions of the container. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may extend along corresponding sides the container. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may be inserted into the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 after the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 is placed in a container. In some embodiments, the goods, foodstuffs, samples and medical items may be inserted into the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 prior to the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 being placed in a container. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may be closed.

In some embodiments, when the container is open, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may extend above the top of the container. In some embodiments, when the container is open, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may extend below the top of the container.

Temperature Regulation

In some embodiments, a cooling or heating agent may be enclosed in the insulated enclosure 10 or 15. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agent may be single use. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agent may be reusable. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agent may comprise wet ice, dry ice, ice packs, ice tubes, ice gel, BLUE ICE®, frozen gel, water, frozen substances, warm substances, gel packs, reusable gel packs, and/or removable gel packs, or any other phase change material pack. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agents may be placed within the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 to keep the interior cold or warm. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agents may be placed around the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 to keep the interior cold or warm. In some embodiments, the cooling or heating agent can be at least about 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, or at least about 10 kg.

In some embodiments, the gel packs may be hot gel packs. In some embodiments, the gel packs may be cold gel packs. In some embodiments, the gel packs may be cooled or heated and then inserted within the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 for keeping the object within the container cold or hot. In some embodiments, the cold gel packs may be plastic. In some embodiments, the cold gel packs may contain a chemical gel therein. In some embodiments, the chemical gel may be quickly and easily frozen and remain in a frozen state for an extended period of time. In some embodiments, the hot gel packs may be metal. In some embodiments, the hot gel packs may be filled with a chemical gel. In some embodiments the chemical gel may be easily preheated and used for keeping an object warm for an extended period of time.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may regulate and keep the temperature of goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items constant for at least about 1 to about 500 hours (“hrs.”). In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 regulates and keep the temperature of an object constant for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may regulate and keep the temperature of an object with in a temperature range for about at least about 1 to about 500 hrs. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may regulate and keep the temperature of an object with in a temperature range for about at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the temperature range may be within the range of about 0.1 to about 50° C. In some embodiments, the temperature range is within about 0.1, about 0.5, about 1, about 1.5, about 2, about 2.5, about 3, about 3.5, about 4, about 4.5, about 5, about 5.5, about 6, about 6.5, about 7, about 7.5, about 8, about 8.5, about 9, about 9.5, about 10, about 10.5, about 11, about 11.5, about 12, about 12.5, about 13, about 13.5, about 14, about 14.5, about 15, about 15.5, about 16, about 16.5, about 17, about 17.5, about 18, about 18.5, about 19, about 19.5, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, or about 50° C.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below a specified temperature for a prolong period of time. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below a specified temperature for a prolong period of time with the addition of an appropriate amount of a cooling and/or heating agent. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above a specified temperature for a prolong period of time. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above a specified temperature for a prolong period of time with the addition of an appropriate amount of a cooling and/or heating agent. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature at about a specified temperature for a prolong period of time. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature at about a specified temperature for a prolong period of time with the addition of an appropriate amount of a cooling and/or heating agent.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below about −60, −50, −15, −10, −5, −4, −3, −2, −1, −0.9, −0.8, −0.7, −0.6, −0.5, −0.4, −0.3, −0.2, −0.1, 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 32, 50, 100 or about 132° C. for an extended period of time. In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above about −60, 0, 32, 34, 40, 50, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 75, 80, 100 or about 132° C. for an extended period of time.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below 4° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below 3° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below 2° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below 5° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature below 0° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above 59° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above 60° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above 61° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above 62° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 can maintain an internal temperature above 58° C. for at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 70, about 51, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 70, about 72, about 75, about 80, about 90, about 10 or 15, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 30, or at least about 500 hrs.

In some embodiments, the insulated enclosure 10 or 15 may regulate and keep the temperature of goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items at a temperature of about −80° C. to about 150° C. for a period of time. In some embodiments, an insulated enclosure may regulate and keep the temperature of goods, foodstuffs, samples, and medical items at a temperature of about −100, about −90, about −80, about −79, about −78, about −77, about −76, about −75, about −70, about −60, about −50, about −40, about −30, about −20, about −10, about −5, about −4, about −3, about −2, about −1, about 0, about 1, about 0.5, about 1, about 1.5, about 2, about 2.5, about 3, about 3.5, about 4, about 4.5, about 5, about 5.5, about 6, about 6.5, about 7, about 7.5, about 8, about 8.5, about 9, about 9.5, about 10, about 10.5, about 11, about 11.5, about 12, about 12.5, about 13, about 13.5, about 14, about 14.5, about 15, about 15.5, about 16, about 16.5, about 17, about 17.5, about 18, about 18.5, about 19, about 19.5, about 20, about 21, about 22, about 23, about 24, about 25, about 26, about 27, about 28, about 29, about 30, about 31, about 32, about 33, about 34, about 35, about 36, about 37, about 38, about 39, about 40, about 41, about 42, about 43, about 44, about 45, about 46, about 47, about 48, about 49, about 50, about 52, about 53, about 54, about 55, about 56, about 57, about 58, about 59, about 60, about 61, about 62, about 63, about 64, about 65, about 66, about 67, about 68, about 69, about 70, about 71, about 72, about 73, about 74, about 75, about 76, about 77, about 78, about 79, about 80, about 90, about 100, about 120, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, or about 190° C.

In some embodiments, flame resistant material can be comprised in an enclosure 10 or 15. In some cases, flame resistant can be comprised in a barrier, insulation layer, inner layer, outer layer, and or a planer reinforcement. In some cases, flame resistant can be comprised in a barrier, insulation layer, inner layer, outer layer, and or a planer reinforcement when heated payloads are to be placed in the enclosure 10 or 15.

Although described with reference to preferred embodiments of the invention, it should be readily understood that various changes and/or modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit thereof.

EXAMPLES Example 1. Insulation Layer Production

Recycled jute fibers were sourced from secondary fiber markets. The recycled jute fibers were previously used as inputs for the production of woven burlap bags used for the transportation of coffee and cacao beans. The jute fibers were received in the form of bales. The bales were tightly packed and range in weight from 100 lbs. to over 500 lbs. Baled fibers were unpacked and loaded onto a moving conveyor in the form of loose chunks of densely packed jute fibers.

The loose jute fibers were escalated up a vertical conveyor wall about 15 to 20 feet in height. Protrusions (spikes) lift the jute fibers up the wall and served the function of opening the jute fibers. In this sense, opening refers to the breaking down of higher density, packed chunks of the jute fibers into lower density, evenly distributed individual jute fibers. The jute fibers were subsequently dropped into a vacuum shoot, which facilitated transport to the next process.

The jute fibers were moved by way of air pressure onto the secondary conveyor belt and passed underneath a guiding jig that had a variable height. The height of the jig sets and controls the height of the stack of jute fibers (usually 0.2″ to 6.0″ at this stage).

The loosely packed jute fibers were subjected to a needling process where rapid movements of thin needles into and out of the fiber bed led to entanglement and the production of an insulation layer 30.

A rotary blade was installed on the conveyor belt and the rotary blade made incisions parallel to the direction of the movement of the newly formed insulation layer 30. The rotary blade can be adjusted across the width of the insulation layer 30 to alter and fix the width of the insulation layer 30.

Another blade was set to cut across the insulation layer 30 (perpendicular to the movement of the conveyor) allowing for a predetermined insulation layer 30 length to be implemented. The result was rectangular strips of insulation layers 30.

The rectangular strips of insulation layers 30 were stacked on pallets. The pallets were left open to allow for airflow through the insulation layers 30. The airflow reduced the moisture content of the insulation layer 30, thus reducing the risk of odor generation.

Example 2. Insulated Bag Production

The inner portion of a first paper kraft bag was lined with an insulation layer 30 comprising jute fibers. A second paper kraft bag was placed into the second paper kraft bag, wherein the outer portion of the second paper kraft bag is in contact with the insulation layer 30, thus sandwiching the insulation layer 30 between the inner portion of the first paper kraft bag and the outer portion of the second kraft paper bag. The second paper kraft bag was positioned such that when the second paper kraft bag sits inside of the first paper kraft bag, the top edge of the second paper kraft bag is extended about 1.0″ above the top edge of the first paper kraft bag. Two incisions were made on the top edges of the second paper kraft bag that extended about 1.0″ above the top edge of the first paper kraft bag. The incisions resulted in the creation of two independent flaps which were then be folded over the top edge of the first paper kraft bag and sealed to ensure that the insulation layer 30 is properly sealed.

The two paper kraft bags were of dimensions 17″ wide by 24″ tall. Double sided adhesives were placed on the top portion of the inner layer. The double sided adhesives were used to seal the insulated bag after the insulated bag was packed.

Example 3. Insulated Bags with Handles Production

Insulated bags 15 as described in example 3, were produced. Corrugated handles were fastened onto the inner layer 25 of the insulated bags 15.

Example 4. Insulated Bag with Planar Reinforcing Material

Insulated bags 15 as described in example 3, were produced. A planar reinforcing material 40 with rounded edges were placed on the bottom of the insulated bags 15. In this example, the planar reinforcing material 40 was a rectangular corrugated sheet. The planar reinforcing material 40 established a gusset and acted as a platform upon which the payload can rest. The gusset was formed by creating a rectangular bottom that matches the dimensions of the planar reinforcing material 40. The two triangular sides 50 of the newly formed three dimensional insulated bags were then folded under the gusset and sealed via the application of an adhesive.

Example 5. Insulated Sleeve Production

The inner portion of a first paper kraft bag was lined with an insulation layer 30 comprising jute fibers. A second paper kraft bag was placed into the second paper kraft bag, wherein the outer portion of the second paper kraft bag is in contact with the insulation layer 30, thus sandwiching the insulation layer 30 between the inner portion of the first paper kraft bag and the outer portion of the second kraft paper bag. The second paper kraft bag was positioned such that when the second paper kraft bag sits inside of the first paper kraft bag, the top edge of the second paper kraft bag is extended about 1.0″ above the top edge of the first paper kraft bag. Two incisions were made on the top edges of the second paper kraft bag that extended about 1.0″ above the top edge of the first paper kraft bag. The incisions resulted in the creation of two independent flaps which were then be folded over the top edge of the first paper kraft bag and sealed to ensure that the insulation layer 30 is properly sealed.

The two paper kraft bags were of dimensions 17″ wide by 24″ tall. Double sided adhesives were placed on the top portion of the inner layer. The double sided adhesives were used to seal the insulated bag after the insulated bag was packed.

Example 6. Insulated Bag Test

A jute insulated bag was manufactured according to example 2-4. In this illustration, the insulated bag was manufactured with internal dimensions of 11″×7″×19″. Dry ice was added. Total dry ice weight was 0.9 kg. The insulated bag was thereafter sealed. FIG. 12. In this illustration, the insulated bag maintained an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature.

Example 7. Insulated Sleeve Test

A jute insulated sleeve was manufactured according to example 5. In this illustration, the insulated sleeve was compared to an original sleeve. Dry ice was added. Total dry ice weight was 0.9 kg. FIG. 13. In this illustration, the jute insulated sleeve maintained an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature.

Example 8. Insulated Sleeve/Insulated Bag

An insulated sleeve or insulated bag can be manufactured as described herein. The insulated sleeve or insulated bag can maintain an internal temperature within a range from about 0° C. to about 4.4° C. for over 48 hours. The cooling agent can be dry ice (Performance/Ices) encapsulated in a high density PET plastic used for a pouch to hold the dry ice. In an alternative design, the cooling agent can be placed in a pocket of the insulated sleeve or insulated bag.

Example 9. Insulated Sleeve/Insulated Bag

An insulated sleeve or insulated bag can be manufactured as described herein. The insulated sleeve or insulated bag can comprise multiple layers of an insulation layer, an outer layer and/or an inner layer. The insulated sleeve or insulated bag can comprises meta aramid as an inner layer, Tyvek as an insulation layer and nylon or para aramid as an outer layer.

Example 10. Insulated Sleeve/Insulated Bag

An insulated sleeve or insulated bag can be manufactured as described herein. The insulated sleeve or insulated bag can comprise an inner layer and an insulation layer. In this design, the insulated sleeve or insulated bag do not have an outer layer. In an alternative design, the insulated sleeve or insulated bag can comprise an outer layer and an insulation layer. In this design, the insulated sleeve or insulated bag do not have an inner layer.

Example 11. Insulated Bag/Sleeve Production

An insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag (Kraft bag or bag comprising fibrous material or materials disclosed herein). The insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag such that the long bag covers all portions of the insulation layer 30. The long bag enclosed the insulation layer. The long bag containing the insulation layer 30 was folded along its width and sealed on its sides. Thus providing an enclosure sealed on two of four sides, with the third side being an opening, and the fourth side being the area where the insulation layer 30 in the long bag was folded. With the two sides sealed, the insulated bag/sleeve is leak proof.

Example 12. Insulated Bag/Sleeve Production

An insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag (Kraft bag or bag comprising fibrous material or materials disclosed herein). The insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag such that the long bag covers all portions of the insulation layer 30, with a portion of the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (flap). The long bag enclosed the insulation layer 30, with a portion of the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (flap). The long bag containing the insulation layer 30 was folded along its width and sealed on its sides. Thus providing an enclosure sealed on two of four sides, with the third side being an opening with at least one side of the opening having the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (having at least one flap), and the fourth side being the area where the insulation layer 30 in the long bag was folded. With the two sides sealed, the insulated bag/sleeve is leak proof. The at least one flap can be folded to close/seal the insulated bag/sleeve.

Example 13. Insulated Bag/Sleeve Production

An insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag (Kraft bag or bag comprising fibrous material or materials disclosed herein). The insulation layer 30 was placed inside a long bag such that the long bag covers all portions of the insulation layer 30, with a portion of the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (flap). The long bag enclosed the insulation layer 30, with a portion of the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (flap). The long bag containing the insulation layer 30 was folded along its width and sealed on its sides. Thus providing an enclosure sealed on two of four sides, with the third side being an opening with at least one side of the opening having the long bag extending beyond the insulation layer (having at least one flap), and the fourth side being the area where the insulation layer 30 in the long bag was folded. With the two sides sealed, the insulated bag/sleeve is leak proof. A least one handle can be added to the opening. The at least one flap can be folded to close/seal the insulated bag/sleeve, wherein the at least one flap can have an area cut out (slot) to facilitate the closing of the at least one flap with the at least on handle. For example, a handle can be inserted into and through a slot, allowing the flap to close/seal the insulated bag/sleeve.

While preferred embodiments have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

1-173. (canceled)

174. An insulated bag having a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion, the bag comprising:

a first inner layer;

a first outer layer;

a first insulation layer disposed between the first inner layer and first outer layer;

a planar reinforcing material, wherein the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion and provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction; and

wherein the insulated bag maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 15 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent.

175. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein 80%-100% of the insulated bag biodegrades within 26 weeks after being placed in conditions of temperature and humidity of a compost.

176. The insulated bag of claim 175, wherein the compost is a municipal or household compost.

177. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein at least one of the first inner layer and first outer layer are hydrophobic.

178. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein at least one of the first inner layer and first outer layer comprises kraft paper.

179. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein at least one of the first inner layer, first insulation layer and first outer layer comprises recycled materials.

180. The insulated bag of claim 179, wherein the recycled materials comprise post-consumer recycled materials.

181. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein the first insulation layer comprises a nonwoven fibrous material.

182. The insulated bag of claim 181, wherein the nonwoven fibrous material comprises a bast fiber.

183. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein the first insulation layer comprises expanded cornstarch.

184. The insulated bag of claim 183, wherein the first insulation layer comprises expanded cornstarch in a single continuous layer.

185. The insulated bag of claim 174, further comprising a second insulation layer disposed between the first inner layer and first outer layer.

186. The insulated bag of claim 174, further comprising an element for closing the insulated bag.

187. The insulated bag of claim 174, wherein the first inner layer extends above a top edge of the first outer layer to form a first flap and second flap configured to fold over the top edge of the first outer layer to enclose the first insulation layer between the first inner layer and the first outer layer.

188. The insulated bag of claim 187, wherein the first flap and second flap comprise a closing means selected from at least one of an adhesive, a pressure sensitive adhesive, tape, a zipper, a zip-lock, a hook, a button, or a hook and loop fastener.

189. An insulated bag having a bottom portion, side walls extending upwardly from the bottom portion, and an opening generally opposite the bottom portion, the bag comprising:

a first outer layer;

a first inner layer extending above a top edge of the first outer layer to form a first flap and second flap;

a plurality of stacked insulation layers disposed between the first inner layer and first outer layer, and enclosable by the first flap and second flap; and

a planar reinforcing material, wherein the planar reinforcing material shapes the bottom portion and provides structural load bearing capability along its planar direction.

190. The insulated bag of claim 189, wherein the plurality of stacked insulation layers comprises expanded cornstarch.

191. An insulated sleeve, said insulated sleeve comprising:

an insulation layer comprising a continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material, wherein the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprises a bast fiber, the continuous layer of nonwoven fibrous material comprising a first side portion, a second side portion, and a middle portion separating the first and second side portions;

an inner layer, wherein the inner layer covers an inner surface of the insulation layer and

an outer layer, wherein the outer layer covers an outer surface of the insulation layer.

192. The insulated sleeve of claim 191, wherein the insulated sleeve maintains an internal temperature below 4.4° C. for at least 25 hours when stored at ambient temperature with a cooling agent.

193. The insulated sleeve of claim 191, further comprising a barrier comprised of a biodegradable polymer, copolymer or blends thereof.