Patent Description:
Ethylene affects a wide range of physiological processes in plants, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers, such as drooping, aging and maturation, chlorophyll loss, softening, physiological disorders, germination, isocoumarin synthesis, lignification, discoloration (browning), decomposition, and stimulation of defense systems. When storing plant products, it is essential to control the influence of ethylene to prolong the durability of these products, delay their maturation, browning or aging.

One of the methods used is to inhibit the action of ethylene by blocking ethylene receptors in plant cells. <NUM>-methylcyclopropene (<NUM>-MCP) is a gas that has been used for this purpose. <NUM>-MCP, which may be provided in the form of a complex with α-cyclodextrin, is released upon exposure to water, e.g., in the form of humidity.

<CIT> discloses a composition comprising (a) a meltable solid matrix comprising (i) one or more solid hydrophobic substance, and (ii) one or more solid hydrophilic substance, and (b) distributed in said matrix, one or more encapsulated complex of a volatile cyclopropane compound encapsulated in a molecule encapsulation agent. European application No. <CIT> discloses solid polyvinylpyrrolidone as one of the hygroscopic polymers which are suitable for releasing <NUM>-MCP. The composition can be applied on a paper substrate laminate.

In a first aspect, there is described a composition that includes: (a) a complex of <NUM>-methylcyclopropene and α-cyclodextrin and (b) a polymer binder selected from the group consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone and copolymers thereof, wherein, the ratio of polymer binder to complex on a weight to weight basis ranges from about <NUM>:<NUM> to about <NUM>:<NUM>, wherein the polymer binder has a molecule weight ranging from about <NUM>,<NUM> to about <NUM>,<NUM>, and the composition is capable of releasing the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene in the form of a gas when exposed to moisture, the composition having a release profile characterized in that when exposed at room temperature in a sealed vessel to conditions of <NUM>% relative humidity, the composition releases substantially no <NUM>-methylcyclopropene after a time period of at least <NUM> hour after exposure and thereafter continuously releases <NUM>-methylcyclopropene for at least <NUM> hours after exposure.

In some embodiments, the ratio of polymer binder to complex on a weight to weight basis is about <NUM>:<NUM>. In some embodiments, the polymer binder has a molecular weight of about <NUM>,<NUM>. In some embodiments, the ratio of polymer binder to complex on a weight to weight basis ranges from about <NUM>:<NUM> to about <NUM>:<NUM>. In some embodiments, the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene is present in the composition in an amount of from about <NUM> wt% to about <NUM> wt%. In some embodiments, the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene is present in the composition in an amount of from about <NUM> wt% to about <NUM> wt%.

In some embodiments, the composition includes a hygroscopic agent, e.g., a hygroscopic agent selected from the group consisting of glycerol, glucose, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the composition includes a humidity-indicating dye. Examples of suitable humidity-indicating dyes include quinolone yellow, curcumin (alone or in combination with sodium hydrogen carbonate, tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH), or patent blue), patent blue, hydrochromic ink, thymol blue (alone or in combination with TBAOH), bromothymol blue (alone or in combination with TBAOH or bromochlorophenol blue), indigo carmine (alone or in combination with TBAOH), bromochlorophenol blue (alone or in combination with TBAOH or acetic acid), and Reichardt's dye (alone or in combination with TBAOH).

In some embodiments, the composition has a release profile characterized in that when exposed at room temperature in a sealed vessel to conditions of <NUM>% relative humidity, the composition releases substantially no <NUM>-methylcyclopropene after a time period of at least <NUM> hour or at least <NUM> hours after exposure and thereafter continuously releases <NUM>-methylcyclopropene for at least <NUM> hours after exposure. Preferably, the compositions do not release <NUM>-methylcyclopropene when the relative humidity at room temperature is less than <NUM>%.

The composition may be in the form of a stick that can be manually applied to a surface of a substrate. Alternatively, the composition may be included in an adhesive label where the label includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface in which the composition is provided on the first surface and an adhesive provided on the second surface. Example of suitable substrates include paper, cardboard, and synthetic substrates.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the labels are prepared by a) preparing a paste from the composition ingredients as defined above, b) applying a screen layer of paste to the substrate (e.g., adhesive paper layer) with a screen printing technique, and c) drying the resulting layer structure to remove solvent. In some embodiments, the thickness of the <NUM>-MCP-containing layer in the label can vary depending on the screen print mesh used. As the mesh size number increases, less composition containing <NUM>-MCP is applied. Thus, thickness of the <NUM>-MCP-containing layer in the label can decrease with increasing mesh size number. A wide range of mesh sizes can be used to produce varying thicknesses of the <NUM>-MCP-containing layer in the label. Preferably, screen print mesh sizes 32T, 43T, 47T, 48T, 64T, and 68T are used.

The labels may be used in a method for prolonging plant life and delaying the ripening process of fruit and vegetables comprising placing a label as defined above inside a package for storing plant products and exposing it on humidity conditions produced in the package by plant products.

The label, due to its composition and construction, releases <NUM>-MCP gas under the influence of moisture generated in the natural process of fruit and vegetable breathing. Under normal conditions of humidity, e.g., up to <NUM>% or <NUM>% relative humidity, the label is stable. Above this level, there is a gradual release of <NUM>-MCP gas from the surface of the label after a period of time. The polymer binder (e.g., the PVP polymer) acts as a binding agent and at the same time absorbs ambient moisture. One advantage of this type of binder for <NUM>-MCP is the ease of its use, versatility, the flexibility of the form, and the possibility of straightforward modification to the customer's needs.

The layered design of the label sticker can be modified over an extensive range. Depending on the time required for the release of <NUM>-MCP and relative humidity, the label can be covered with additional functional layers (barrier polymers, hydrophilic, hydrophobic, hygroscopic additives, etc.). The size of the label can also vary based on the size of the package and the weight of fruit/vegetables in this package, and the necessary concentration of <NUM>-MCP to be achieved.

Preferably, to assist the end user, the label includes an indicator to communicate to the end user that <NUM>-MCP has been released and has reached an effective concentration. This can be achieved by adding a moisture indicator function to the label in the form of an appearing figure or a colored bar. The attainment of at least <NUM>% humidity, which is indicated on the label, is synonymous with the release of <NUM>-MCP.

The compositions have a viscosity, density, and cohesion that enable them to be applied to substrate surfaces, e.g., by screen printing to obtain an active layer of appropriate and reproducible thickness. They prolong the durability of fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, etc., because they release gaseous <NUM>-methylcyclopropene after reaching the appropriate level of ambient relative humidity at a given temperature (such as <NUM>% at room temperature) or absolute humidity denoting the water content in g/m<NUM>.

As noted above, the composition may be provided in the form of a stick for application to a surface (e.g., by spreading manually). To form the stick, the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex is combined with a multicomponent mixture comprising polymers, waxes, paraffin, mono- and polyhydric alcohols, dyes, and/or excipients that are molded into a stick. The stick forms a soft substance in the shape of a rod that, in turn, is embedded in a case that allows pulling out, for self-application outside or inside packages for storing fruit, vegetables or flowers (<FIG>).

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the stick includes a molded mass contains <NUM>-<NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, <NUM>-<NUM> wt. % polymer binder (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)), and a casing in which the column is embedded. The mass may further include polymers, waxes, paraffin, mono-and polyhydric alcohols, dyes (e.g., cochineal red), and auxiliary components. Specific examples include coconut oil, SE-PF emulsifier, beeswax, stearic acid, candelilla wax, glycerol, and isopropyl alcohol. In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the mass includes components selected from <NUM> wt. % dyes, <NUM> wt. % isopropyl alcohol, <NUM> wt. % coconut oil, <NUM> wt. % SE-PF emulsifier, <NUM>-<NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % stearic acid, <NUM>-<NUM> wt. % candelilla wax, and/or <NUM>-<NUM> wt. % glycerin.

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), <NUM> wt. % <NUM>- methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, <NUM> wt. % cochineal red, and <NUM> wt. % isopropyl alcohol.

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % coconut oil, <NUM> wt. % SE-PF emulsifier, <NUM> wt. % stearic acid, <NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % cochineal red, <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex.

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, <NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % candelilla wax, and <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene /α-cyclodextrin complex, <NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % candelilla wax, and <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % candelilla wax, <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methyl-cyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, and <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, <NUM> wt. % glycerol, and <NUM> wt. % polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

In one embodiment not covered by the claims, the components of the mass constitute <NUM> wt. % beeswax, <NUM> wt. % candelilla wax, <NUM> wt. % glycerol, <NUM> wt. % <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex, and <NUM>% wt. polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP).

The stick may be used to apply the composition to packaging in the form of paper, cardboard, or foil.

Use of the stick inhibits the process induced by ethylene, thus delaying the maturation and aging of plant products, by spreading the stick mass defined above on a material for packaging, storing a plant product from the inside of the package in which the plant product is found, and closing the packaging. <NUM>-MCP release occurs after at least one hour when the relative humidity within the packaging reaches about <NUM>%.

In a second aspect not covered by the claims, there is described a composite mixture comprising a complex of <NUM>-methylcyclopropene with α-cyclodextrin and copolymers of ethylene and vinyl acetate characterized by a melting point of <NUM>-<NUM>, mixed in a weight ratio of <NUM>:<NUM>. Examples of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers are ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers have a vinyl acetate content of <NUM>% to <NUM>%, ethylene and vinyl acetate modified maleic anhydride, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer modified with acrylic acid, and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer with acetate content from <NUM>% to <NUM>%.

Also described is a granulate for an active layer of a PET composite film comprising the composite mixture described above.

Also described is a PET polyester composite film comprising in the active layer a granulate as described above. In some embodiments, the granulate content in the active layer is <NUM>-<NUM> wt%, e.g., <NUM> wt%.

In some embodiments, the PET film includes at least two active layers and at least one support layer, and is present in the ABA format where A is the active layer containing the <NUM>-MCP/α-cyclodextrin complex and B is the carrier layer containing polyethylene. The active layer may be placed between the support layers.

In some embodiments, the active layer is <NUM>% to <NUM>% of the thickness of the composite film, and the support layer is <NUM>-<NUM>%. The total thickness of the film may be <NUM>-<NUM>.

Also described is a process for preparing a PET composite film comprising a <NUM>-methylcyclopropene complex with α-cyclodextrin that includes: (a) mixing the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex with a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate; (b) extruding the mixture obtained in step (a) to form a composite; (c) cooling and mechanically granulate the composite to form granules; (d) mixing the granules obtained in step (c) with carrier polymer granules to form a granule mixture; and e) coextruding the granule mixture obtained in step (d) at <NUM> to <NUM>, preferably <NUM> to <NUM>, to form the composite film.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex is mixed with a <NUM>:<NUM> copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate in a weight ratio of <NUM>:<NUM>. Examples of suitable ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers are described above.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the extrusion in step (b) is carried out at <NUM>.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the granulate obtained in step (c) is mixed with the carrier polymer granules in step (d) in a weight ratio of A: B from <NUM>: <NUM> to <NUM>: <NUM>.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, in step (e), a composite film is co-extruded in a three-layer system ABA, where layer A forms an upper layer in contact with layer B, and layer A forms a bottom layer in contact with layer B, wherein layer A is a layer obtained from the granulate obtained in step (c), and the layer B is a carrier polymer.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, the co-extrusion process is carried out with a single-screw or twin-screw extruder.

The PET polyester composite film may be used to manufacture of fruit and vegetable storage packaging, e.g., thermoformable packaging.

The mixture of <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex with polymers that are characterized by a high melt flow index and compatibility with polyester polymers (e. g, polyethylene terephthalate) makes it possible to incorporate the granulate as an additive to the outer layer in an extrusion process of PET film in ABA format, where A is a layer comprising a <NUM>-MCP /α-cyclodextrin complex, hereinafter referred to as an active layer (<FIG>). The granulate is obtained by melting and mixing the ingredients, followed by extrusion, cooling, and granulation.

In some embodiments not covered by the claims, films have been prepared in which <NUM>-MCP modified polyethylene is used as the active layer and placed between polyethylene layers or as a binder of two polyethylene films, where the polyethylene films are derivatives of high melt flow and low melting/softening /molding polyethylene. Specifically, a granulate comprising a <NUM>-MCP /α-cyclodextrin complex and an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (for example Evatane (Arkema), Elvax (Dupont), Bynel (Dupont) having a melting point in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> have been prepared. The granules prepared in this way are used as a <NUM>% addition to the outer layer of PET film extruded in the ABA system at a temperature of <NUM>-<NUM> and even up to <NUM>. The co-extrusion process is carried out using an extruder. The addition of the granulate is in the range of <NUM>-<NUM>% by weight in the outer layer, which is from <NUM>% to <NUM>% of the thickness of the extruded film. The thickness of the film is <NUM>-<NUM>.

The resulting PET co-extruded films release <NUM>-MCP under the influence of moisture. Due to the natural hygroscopicity of PET, it is not necessary to include an additive that causes water absorption. It is also possible to obtain a PET film containing <NUM>-MCP in a one-stage extrusion process, rather than a multistage lamination process, which is much more technologically complicated. Furthermore, the method allows the production of films of different thickness, as well as <NUM>-MCP content only in the outer layer. The method also allows the production of packages by thermoforming from the obtained film (e.g., shell-type cloths) for storing fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Active <NUM>-MCP is released under the influence of moisture generated in the natural breathing process of fruits and vegetables after they have been placed in a container.

The invention will now be described further by way of the following examples.

Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM>% by weight) was dissolved in <NUM>-propanol (<NUM>% by weight) and the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM>% by weight) was added (the <NUM>-MCP content in the complex was <NUM>%). The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested by placing each in gas-tight containers with sampling valves under conditions of defined humidity.

<NUM>×<NUM> labels were placed in a <NUM> glass vessel. A container with a saturated solution of the appropriate salt was placed in the vessel to obtain the correct relative humidity, or a sponge soaked in water was placed in the vessel instead of salt solution to obtain <NUM>% relative humidity. <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was introduced into the vessel with a gas-tight syringe.

The concentration of <NUM>-MCP was determined as compared to cis-<NUM>-butene as a reference, using a gas chromatograph equipped with a PoraBOND Q column: <NUM>×<NUM> internal diameter (i. )×<NUM> and a flame ionization detector (FID). Cis-<NUM>-butene was used as a reference because it has the same response from an FID detector as <NUM>-methylcyclopropene.

For analysis, <NUM>µL gas was collected with a gas-tight syringe and injected into the above-mentioned column under the following conditions: temperature of the split/splitless injector <NUM>; isothermal <NUM>, temperature of the FID <NUM> detector, split <NUM>:<NUM>, carrier gas flow (helium) <NUM>/s.

Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%) was dissolved in <NUM>-propanol (<NUM> wt%) and the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%) was added (the <NUM>-MCP content in the complex was <NUM>%). The resulting paste was applied to the self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution 160dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested by placing them in gas-tight containers with sampling valves under conditions of defined humidity.

The concentration of <NUM>-MCP was determined analogously to Example <NUM>.

Poly (<NUM>-vinylpyrrolidone-co-vinyl acetate) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM>% by weight) was dissolved in <NUM>-propanol (<NUM>% by weight) and the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM>% by weight) was added (content <NUM> -MCP in the complex was <NUM>%). The resulting paste was applied to the self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution 160dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested by placing them in gas-tight containers with sampling valves under conditions of defined humidity.

Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%) was dissolved in <NUM>-propanol (<NUM> wt%) and the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%) was added (the <NUM>-MCP content in the complex was <NUM>%), and glycerine (<NUM>% by weight). The resulting paste was applied to the self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution 160dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested by placing them in gas-tight containers with sampling valves under conditions of defined humidity.

Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%) was dissolved in <NUM>-propanol (<NUM> wt%) and the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%) was added (the <NUM>-MCP content in the complex was <NUM>%), and glycerine (<NUM>% by weight). The resulting paste was applied to the self-adhesive paper using screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution 160dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested by placing them in gas-tight containers with sampling valves under conditions of defined humidity.

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%) and <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste (for every <NUM> of dry mixture, between <NUM> and <NUM> <NUM>-propanol is used). The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi). After drying at room temperature, <NUM>×<NUM> labels (<NUM><NUM>) were cut from the paper and tested for total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm<NUM> of the label, under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions or <NUM>% relative humidity conditions.

To test the samples under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions, the samples were each placed in a <NUM> bottle and then <NUM> of distilled water was added. Next, the bottle was tightly closed and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was added. To determine the total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and the amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm<NUM> of label, the samples were analyzed on a gas chromatograph analogously to Example <NUM>. Results are shown in Table <NUM>.

To test the samples under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions, the samples were each pasted in <NUM> vessels. To obtain a relative humidity of <NUM>%, a container with a saturated solution of potassium chloride was placed into the vessel. At <NUM>, relative humidity for potassium chloride is <NUM> ± <NUM>. The vessel was then tightly closed and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was added. The samples were analyzed on a gas chromatograph to measure the concentration of released <NUM>-MCP from the sample over time. At each time interval, samples were removed from the vessels and the concentration was obtained by comparing the areas of the peaks (<NUM>-MCP and cis-<NUM>-butene). The results are shown in Tables <NUM>-<NUM> and <FIG>.

The release profiles of different label sizes were also analyzed. Labels were prepared as above, cut to size, and pasted into <NUM> vessels. To obtain a relative humidity of <NUM>%, a container with a saturated solution of potassium chloride was placed into the vessel. The vessel was then tightly closed and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was added. The samples were analyzed on a gas chromatograph to measure the concentration of released <NUM>-MCP from the sample over time as described above for <NUM>% relative humidity. The measurements are shown in Tables <NUM>-<NUM> and illustrated in <FIG>.

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%), <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%), and pure alpha-cyclodextrin (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste as described in Example A-<NUM>. The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested for total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm<NUM> of the label, under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions or <NUM>% relative humidity conditions.

To test under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions, a <NUM>×<NUM> label (<NUM><NUM>) sample was placed in a <NUM> bottle and then <NUM> of distilled water was added. Next, the bottle was tightly closed and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was added. To determine the total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and the amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm<NUM> of label, the sample was analyzed on a gas chromatograph as described in Example A-<NUM>. The sample released <NUM>/cm2 (or <NUM>µL) <NUM>-MCP.

Two sample labels with a surface area of <NUM><NUM> were tested under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions as described in Example A-<NUM>. The results are shown in Table <NUM> and <FIG>.

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%), and <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste as described in Example A-<NUM>. The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi). After drying at room temperature, labels were cut from the paper and tested for total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm<NUM> of the label, under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions or <NUM>% relative humidity conditions.

To test under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions, a <NUM>×<NUM> label (<NUM> cm2) sample was placed in a <NUM> bottle and then <NUM> of distilled water was added. Next, the bottle was tightly closed and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was added. To determine the total amount of <NUM>-MCP released and the amount of <NUM>-MCP released per cm2 of label, the sample was analyzed on a gas chromatograph as described in Example A-<NUM>. The sample released <NUM>/cm<NUM> (or <NUM>µL) <NUM>-MCP.

Two sample labels with a surface area of <NUM> cm2 were tested under <NUM>% relative humidity conditions as described in Example A-<NUM>. The results are shown in Table <NUM> and <FIG>.

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%), <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%), and glucose (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste as described in Example A-<NUM>. The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi).

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%), <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%), and pure alpha-cyclodextrin (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste as described in Example A-<NUM>. The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi).

A dry mixture of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (MW=<NUM>,<NUM>) (<NUM> wt%), <NUM>-methylcyclopropene/alpha-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%), pure alpha-cyclodextrin (<NUM> wt%), and glucose (<NUM> wt%) was prepared. The dry mixture was combined with <NUM>-propanol in an amount sufficient to form a paste as described in Example A-<NUM>. The resulting paste was applied to self-adhesive paper by screen printing (polyester mesh 64T, resolution <NUM> dpi).

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %, MW = <NUM>,<NUM>), <NUM>-MCP/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, <NUM>-MCP content = <NUM>%), cochineal red (<NUM> wt. %), and isopropyl alcohol (<NUM> wt. %) were placed in a round bottom flask. The contents of the flask were mixed using a magnetic stirrer for <NUM> hours at room temperature. Isopropanol was then removed at <NUM>° C under reduced pressure on a rotary evaporator. The resulting mass was formed in the form of a stick and then evenly spread on paper with a weight of <NUM>/m<NUM> and an area of <NUM> × <NUM>. After drying, samples were prepared for analysis and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of support. The paper with the mass applied was cut and placed in a <NUM> bottle, then <NUM> distilled water was added to the bottle and sealed with a Mininert® valve plug, followed by <NUM>µL cis-<NUM>-butene with a gas-tight syringe. The samples were shaken for <NUM> minutes at a frequency of <NUM> cycles/min.

The concentration of <NUM>-MCP was determined against the standard, which was cis-<NUM>-butene, using a gas chromatograph equipped with a PoraBOND Q column: <NUM> × <NUM> (i. ) × <NUM> and a flame ionization detector (FID). Cis-<NUM>-butene was used as a standard because it has the same response from an FID detector as <NUM>-methylcyclopropene. From a previously prepared test in a <NUM> bottle, <NUM>µL gas was withdrawn with a gas-tight syringe and injected into the above-mentioned column under the following conditions: temperature of the split/splitless dispenser <NUM>; isothermal <NUM>, temperature of the FID <NUM> detector, split <NUM>:<NUM>, carrier gas flow (helium) <NUM>/s. After a single application, the concentration of <NUM>-MCP on the material as mentioned above was <NUM>/cm<NUM>.

Coconut oil (<NUM> wt. %), emulsifier SE-PF (<NUM> wt. %), stearic acid (<NUM> wt. %), beeswax (<NUM> wt. %), cochineal red (<NUM> wt. %), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %, MW = <NUM>,<NUM>), and a <NUM>-MCP/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, <NUM>% <NUM>-MCP) was mixed using a mechanical stirrer in a round bottom flask placed in an oil bath at <NUM>° C until a uniform consistency was obtained. The mass obtained was formed in the form of a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

After a single application, the concentration of <NUM>-MCP on the material as mentioned above was <NUM>/cm<NUM>. The concentration was determined analogously to Example B-<NUM>.

<NUM>-Methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, content of <NUM>-MCP <NUM>%), beeswax (<NUM> wt. %), candelilla wax (<NUM> wt. %), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %, MW = <NUM>,<NUM>) were placed in a mortar. The substances were mixed for <NUM> minutes to obtain a uniform consistency. The obtained mass was formed in the form of a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

Beeswax (<NUM> wt. %), candelilla wax (<NUM> wt. %), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt %, MW = <NUM>,<NUM>) were placed in a beaker and heated to melt at <NUM>, after which <NUM>-MCP complex with α-cyclodextrin (<NUM>% by weight, <NUM>-MCP content was <NUM>%) was added. The ingredients were mixed to a homogeneous consistency. After cooling, the resulting mass was formed into a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

After a single application, the concentration of <NUM>-MCP on the material as mentioned above is <NUM>/cm<NUM>. The concentration was determined analogously to Example B-<NUM>.

<NUM>-Methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, <NUM>-MCP content <NUM>%), beeswax (<NUM> wt. %), candelilla wax (<NUM> wt. %), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %) were placed in a mortar. The substances were mixed for <NUM> minutes to obtain a uniform consistency. The resulting mass was formed into a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

Beeswax (<NUM> wt. %) and candelilla wax (<NUM> wt. %) were placed in a beaker and heated to melt at <NUM>, after which <NUM>-MCP/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, <NUM>-MCP content was <NUM> %) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %) were added. The components were mixed to a homogeneous consistency. After cooling, the resulting mass was formed into a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

<NUM>-Methylcyclopropene/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt. %, <NUM>-MCP content <NUM>%), glycerol (<NUM> wt. %), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt. %) were placed in a mortar. The substances were mixed for <NUM> minutes to obtain a uniform consistency. The resulting mass was formed into a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

Beeswax (<NUM> wt. %), candelilla wax (<NUM> wt. %), and glycerol (<NUM> wt. %) were placed in a beaker and heated to melt at <NUM>, after which <NUM>-MCP/α-cyclodextrin complex (<NUM> wt%, <NUM>-MCP content was <NUM>%) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (<NUM> wt%) were added. The components were mixed to a homogeneous consistency. After cooling, the resulting mass was formed into a stick and tested for <NUM>-MCP per <NUM><NUM> of <NUM>/m<NUM> paper.

The <NUM>-MCP concentration was also analyzed at <NUM>% humidity at room temperature using the sticks prepared in Examples B-<NUM> and B-<NUM>. The paper sheet with the mass applied was placed in a <NUM> glass vessel. A sponge soaked in water was inserted into the dish and then sealed, and <NUM>µL of cis-<NUM>-butene was introduced with a gas-tight syringe.

The concentration was determined against the standard, which was cis-<NUM>-butene, using a gas chromatograph equipped with a PoraBOND Q column: <NUM> × <NUM> (i. ) × <NUM> and a flame ionization detector (FID). Cis-<NUM>-butene was used because it has the same response from an FID detector as <NUM>-methylcyclopropene.

For analysis, <NUM>µL gas was collected with a gas-tight syringe and injected into the above-mentioned column under the following conditions: temperature of the split / splitless dispenser <NUM>; isothermal <NUM>, temperature of the FID <NUM> detector, split <NUM>:<NUM>, carrier gas flow (helium) <NUM>/s.

The analysis was performed on a gas chromatograph, testing the concentration of [µL/L] of <NUM>-MCP released over time. The results are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

<NUM>% by weight of a <NUM>-methylcyclopropene /α-cyclodextrin complex with <NUM>% <NUM>-MCP was mixed with <NUM>% by weight of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (Evatane® <NUM>-<NUM>) and placed in a co-rotating twin screw extruder BTSK <NUM> / 40D with block heating to <NUM>. The composite was extruded through a <NUM> diameter nozzle at a speed of <NUM>/h. The extruded composite was cooled with air and then granulated mechanically.

The content of <NUM>-MCP was determined against a cis-<NUM>-butene standard using a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector (FID) and a PoraBOND Q column: <NUM>×<NUM> (i. The content of <NUM>-MCP in the granulate was <NUM>% by weight as calculated by the formula according to the CIPAC/<NUM>/method.

The granulate composite prepared in this way was coextruded with PET granulate to form a three-layer film in the ABA format where each A layer is <NUM>% and the B layer <NUM>% of the finished film. The addition of <NUM>-MCP containing granules to layer A is <NUM>% by weight.

The co-extrusion process was carried out using a single-screw extruder at <NUM> to obtain a <NUM> thick film.

The co-extruded film was analyzed with respect to MCP content using a PoraBOND Q column: <NUM>×<NUM> (i. ) ×<NUM> and a gas chromatograph coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (Shimadzu, GCMS-TQ8040). The analysis was carried out at <NUM> in product ion scan mode, <NUM> dispenser temperature, <NUM>:<NUM> split, <NUM>/s carrier gas flow.

Analysis of the <NUM>-MCP content in the film was done by crushing a sample of <NUM><NUM> of film and then placing it in a gas-tight vial with a volume of <NUM> in <NUM>% humidity, then a standard was added, which was <NUM> nL cis-<NUM>-butene. After two hours of incubation, the analysis was performed by injecting <NUM>µL of gas withdrawn from the vial. <FIG> is an exemplary chromatogram of the released <NUM>-methylcyclopropene. <FIG> and <FIG> are mass spectra of the released <NUM>-MCP and cis-butene reference standard, respectively. The <NUM>-MCP content calculated against the standard was <NUM> nL/L from <NUM><NUM> of a <NUM> thick film.

Claim 1:
A composition comprising:
(a) a complex of <NUM>-methylcyclopropene and α-cyclodextrin and
(b) a polymer binder selected from the group consisting of polyvinylpyrrolidone and copolymers thereof,
wherein the ratio of polymer binder to complex on a weight to weight basis ranges from about <NUM>:<NUM> to about <NUM>:<NUM>,
wherein the polymer binder has a molecular weight ranging from about <NUM>,<NUM> to about <NUM>,<NUM>, and
wherein the composition is capable of releasing the <NUM>-methylcyclopropene in the form of a gas when exposed to moisture, the composition having a release profile characterized in that when exposed at room temperature in a sealed vessel to conditions of <NUM>% relative humidity, the composition releases substantially no <NUM>-methylcyclopropene after a time period of at least <NUM> hour after exposure and thereafter continuously releases <NUM>-methylcyclopropene for at least <NUM> hours after exposure.