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