Flexible, inflatable packaging materials and methods of making and using same

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to packaging materials for packaging articles, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a packaging material which includes, in one embodiment, a plurality of individual strips, strands, or units of material bondably connected to the exterior surface of a flexible, inflatable substrate to form a cohesive inflatable cushioning unit for use as a packaging material.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    a mass of individual strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         2 . The packaging material of  claim 1 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         3 . The packaging material of  claim 2 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         4 . The packaging material of  claim 2 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         5 . The packaging material of  claim 3 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         6 . The packaging material of  claim 5 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         7 . The packaging material of  claim 6 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         8 . The packaging material of  claim 7 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         9 . The packaging material of  claim 6 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         10 . The packaging material of  claim 1 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         11 . A method for making a flexible, inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing a mass of individual strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible, inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         12 . The packaging material of  claim 11 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         13 . The packaging material of  claim 12 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         14 . The packaging material of  claim 12 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         15 . The packaging material of  claim 13 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         16 . The packaging material of  claim 15 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         17 . The packaging material of  claim 16 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         18 . The packaging material of  claim 17 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         19 . The packaging material of  claim 16 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         20 . The packaging material of  claim 11 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         21 . A flexible, inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing a mass of individual strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible, inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         22 . The packaging material of  claim 21 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         23 . The packaging material of  claim 22 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         24 . The packaging material of  claim 22 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         25 . The packaging material of  claim 23 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         26 . The packaging material of  claim 25 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         27 . The packaging material of  claim 26 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         28 . The packaging material of  claim 27 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         29 . The packaging material of  claim 26 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         30 . The packaging material of  claim 21 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         31 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one strip, strand, or unit of material disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         32 . The packaging material of  claim 31 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         33 . The packaging material of  claim 32 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         34 . The packaging material of  claim 32 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bang.  
     
     
         35 . The packaging material of  claim 33 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         36 . The packaging material of  claim 35 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         37 . The packaging material of  claim 36 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         38 . The packaging material of  claim 37 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         39 . The packaging material of  claim 36 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         40 . The packaging material of  claim 31 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         41 . A method of making a packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one strip, strand, or unit of material, wherein the at least one strip, strand, or unit of material is disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to provide a packaging material.    
     
     
         42 . The packaging material of  claim 41 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         43 . The packaging material of  claim 42 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         44 . The packaging material of  claim 42 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         45 . The packaging material of  claim 43 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         46 . The packaging material of  claim 45 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         47 . The packaging material of  claim 46 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         48 . The packaging material of  claim 47 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         49 . The packaging material of  claim 46 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         50 . The packaging material of  claim 41 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         51 . A flexible, inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one strip, strand, or unit of material, wherein the at least one strip, strand, or unit of material is disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to provide a packaging material.    
     
     
         52 . The packaging material of  claim 51 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         53 . The packaging material of  claim 52 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         54 . The packaging material of  claim 52 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         55 . The packaging material of  claim 53 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         56 . The packaging material of  claim 55 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         57 . The packaging material of  claim 56 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         58 . The packaging material of  claim 57 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         59 . The packaging material of  claim 56 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         60 . The packaging material of  claim 51 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         61 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one decorative effect disposed on at least one of the exterior surface and the interior surface of the flexible inflatable bag, wherein the decorative effect simulates the appearance of a mass of strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         62 . The packaging material of  claim 61 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         63 . The packaging material of  claim 62 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         64 . The packaging material of  claim 62 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         65 . The packaging material of  claim 63 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         66 . The packaging material of  claim 65 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         67 . The packaging material of  claim 66 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         68 . The packaging material of  claim 67 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         69 . The packaging material of  claim 66 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         70 . The packaging material of  claim 61 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         71 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    a mass of strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate.    
     
     
         72 . The packaging material of  claim 71 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         73 . The packaging material of  claim 72 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         74 . The packaging material of  claim 72 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         75 . The packaging material of  claim 73 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         76 . The packaging material of  claim 75 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         77 . The packaging material of  claim 76 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         78 . The packaging material of  claim 77 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         79 . The packaging material of  claim 76 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         80 . The packaging material of  claim 71 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         81 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing a mass of strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         82 . The packaging material of  claim 81 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         83 . The packaging material of  claim 82 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         84 . The packaging material of  claim 82 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         85 . The packaging material of  claim 83 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         86 . The packaging material of  claim 85 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         87 . The packaging material of  claim 86 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         88 . The packaging material of  claim 87 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         89 . The packaging material of  claim 86 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         90 . The packaging material of  claim 81 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         91 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing a mass of strips, strands, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft, the mass being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         92 . The packaging material of  claim 91 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         93 . The packaging material of  claim 92 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         94 . The packaging material of  claim 92 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         95 . The packaging material of  claim 93 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         96 . The packaging material of  claim 95 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         97 . The packaging material of  claim 96 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         98 . The packaging material of  claim 97 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         99 . The packaging material of  claim 96 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         100 . The packaging material of  claim 91 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         101 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one strip, strand, or unit of material disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to provide a packaging material.    
     
     
         102 . The packaging material of  claim 101 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         103 . The packaging material of  claim 102 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         104 . The packaging material of  claim 102 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         105 . The packaging material of  claim 103 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         106 . The packaging material of  claim 105 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         107 . The packaging material of  claim 106 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         108 . The packaging material of  claim 107 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         109 . The packaging material of  claim 106 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         110 . The packaging material of  claim 101 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         111 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one strip, strand, or unit of material, wherein the at least one strip, strand, or unit of material is disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to provide a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         112 . The packaging material of  claim 111 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         113 . The packaging material of  claim 112 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         114 . The packaging material of  claim 112 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         115 . The packaging material of  claim 113 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         116 . The packaging material of  claim 115 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         117 . The packaging material of  claim 116 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         118 . The packaging material of  claim 117 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         119 . The packaging material of  claim 116 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         120 . The packaging material of  claim 111 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         121 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one strip, strand, or unit of material, wherein the at least one strip, strand, or unit of material is disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to provide a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         122 . The packaging material of  claim 121 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         123 . The packaging material of  claim 122 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         124 . The packaging material of  claim 122 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         125 . The packaging material of  claim 123 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         126 . The packaging material of  claim 125 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         127 . The packaging material of  claim 126 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         128 . The packaging material of  claim 127 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         129 . The packaging material of  claim 126 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         130 . The packaging material of  claim 121 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         131 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one decorative effect disposed on at least one of the exterior surface and the interior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate, wherein the decorative effect simulates the appearance of a mass of strip, strand, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient tuft disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate.    
     
     
         132 . The packaging material of  claim 131 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         133 . The packaging material of  claim 132 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         134 . The packaging material of  claim 132 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         135 . The packaging material of  claim 133 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         136 . The packaging material of  claim 135 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         137 . The packaging material of  claim 136 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         138 . The packaging material of  claim 137 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         139 . The packaging material of  claim 136 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         140 . The packaging material of  claim 131 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         141 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one organic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         142 . The packaging material of  claim 141 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         143 . The packaging material of  claim 142 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         144 . The packaging material of  claim 142 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         145 . The packaging material of  claim 143 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         146 . The packaging material of  claim 145 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         147 . The packaging material of  claim 146 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         148 . The packaging material of  claim 147 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         149 . The packaging material of  claim 146 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         150 . The packaging material of  claim 141 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         151 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one organic item, the at least one organic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         152 . The packaging material of  claim 151 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         153 . The packaging material of  claim 152 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         154 . The packaging material of  claim 152 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         155 . The packaging material of  claim 153 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         156 . The packaging material of  claim 155 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         157 . The packaging material of  claim 156 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         158 . The packaging material of  claim 157 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         159 . The packaging material of  claim 156 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         160 . The packaging material of  claim 151 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         161 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one organic item, the at least one organic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         162 . The packaging material of  claim 161 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         163 . The packaging material of  claim 162 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         164 . The packaging material of  claim 162 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         165 . The packaging material of  claim 163 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         166 . The packaging material of  claim 165 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         167 . The packaging material of  claim 166 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         168 . The packaging material of  claim 167 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         169 . The packaging material of  claim 166 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         170 . The packaging material of  claim 161 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         171 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one organic item, wherein the at least one organic item is disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to provide a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         172 . The packaging material of  claim 171 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         173 . The packaging material of  claim 172 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         174 . The packaging material of  claim 172 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         175 . The packaging material of  claim 173 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         176 . The packaging material of  claim 175 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         177 . The packaging material of  claim 176 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         178 . The packaging material of  claim 177 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         179 . The packaging material of  claim 176 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         180 . The packaging material of  claim 171 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         181 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one organic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag, wherein the at least one organic item simulates the appearance of a mass of strip, strand, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         182 . The packaging material of  claim 181 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         183 . The packaging material of  claim 182 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         184 . The packaging material of  claim 182 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         185 . The packaging material of  claim 183 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         186 . The packaging material of  claim 185 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         187 . The packaging material of  claim 186 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         188 . The packaging material of  claim 187 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         189 . The packaging material of  claim 186 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         190 . The packaging material of  claim 181 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         191 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one organic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate.    
     
     
         192 . The packaging material of  claim 191 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         193 . The packaging material of  claim 192 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         194 . The packaging material of  claim 192 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         195 . The packaging material of  claim 193 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         196 . The packaging material of  claim 195 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         197 . The packaging material of  claim 196 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         198 . The packaging material of  claim 197 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         199 . The packaging material of  claim 196 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         200 . The packaging material of  claim 191 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         201 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one organic item, the at least one organic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         202 . The packaging material of  claim 201 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         203 . The packaging material of  claim 202 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         204 . The packaging material of  claim 202 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         205 . The packaging material of  claim 203 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         206 . The packaging material of  claim 205 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         207 . The packaging material of  claim 206 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         208 . The packaging material of  claim 207 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         209 . The packaging material of  claim 206 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         210 . The packaging material of  claim 201 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         211 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one organic item, the at least one organic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         212 . The packaging material of  claim 211 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         213 . The packaging material of  claim 212 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         214 . The packaging material of  claim 212 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         215 . The packaging material of  claim 213 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         216 . The packaging material of  claim 215 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         217 . The packaging material of  claim 216 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         218 . The packaging material of  claim 217 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         219 . The packaging material of  claim 216 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         220 . The packaging material of  claim 211 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         221 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one organic decorative effect disposed on at least one of the exterior surface and the interior surface of the flexible, inflatable material, wherein the at least one organic decorative effect simulates the appearance of a mass of strip, strand, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         222 . The packaging material of  claim 221 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         223 . The packaging material of  claim 222 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         224 . The packaging material of  claim 222 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         225 . The packaging material of  claim 223 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         226 . The packaging material of  claim 225 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         227 . The packaging material of  claim 226 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         228 . The packaging material of  claim 227 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         229 . The packaging material of  claim 226 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         230 . The packaging material of  claim 221 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         231 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one inorganic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         232 . The packaging material of  claim 231 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         233 . The packaging material of  claim 232 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         234 . The packaging material of  claim 232 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         235 . The packaging material of  claim 233 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         236 . The packaging material of  claim 235 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         237 . The packaging material of  claim 236 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         238 . The packaging material of  claim 237 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         239 . The packaging material of  claim 236 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         240 . The packaging material of  claim 231 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         241 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one inorganic item, the at least one inorganic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         242 . The packaging material of  claim 241 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         243 . The packaging material of  claim 242 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         244 . The packaging material of  claim 242 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         245 . The packaging material of  claim 243 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         246 . The packaging material of  claim 245 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         247 . The packaging material of  claim 246 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         248 . The packaging material of  claim 247 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         249 . The packaging material of  claim 246 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         250 . The packaging material of  claim 241 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         251 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    providing at least one inorganic item, the at least one inorganic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         252 . The packaging material of  claim 251 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         253 . The packaging material of  claim 252 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         254 . The packaging material of  claim 252 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         255 . The packaging material of  claim 253 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         256 . The packaging material of  claim 255 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         257 . The packaging material of  claim 256 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         258 . The packaging material of  claim 257 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         259 . The packaging material of  claim 256 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         260 . The packaging material of  claim 251 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         261 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable bag having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space; and    at least one inorganic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag, wherein the at least one inorganic item simulates the appearance of a mass of strip, strand, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         262 . The packaging material of  claim 261 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         263 . The packaging material of  claim 262 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         264 . The packaging material of  claim 262 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         265 . The packaging material of  claim 263 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         266 . The packaging material of  claim 265 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         267 . The packaging material of  claim 266 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         268 . The packaging material of  claim 267 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         269 . The packaging material of  claim 266 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         270 . The packaging material of  claim 261 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         271 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one inorganic item disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate.    
     
     
         272 . The packaging material of  claim 271 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         273 . The packaging material of  claim 272 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         274 . The packaging material of  claim 272 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         275 . The packaging material of  claim 273 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         276 . The packaging material of  claim 275 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         277 . The packaging material of  claim 276 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         278 . The packaging material of  claim 277 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         279 . The packaging material of  claim 276 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         280 . The packaging material of  claim 271 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         281 . A method for making a flexible inflatable packaging material, comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one inorganic item, the at least one inorganic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         282 . The packaging material of  claim 281 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         283 . The packaging material of  claim 282 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         284 . The packaging material of  claim 282 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         285 . The packaging material of  claim 283 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         286 . The packaging material of  claim 285 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         287 . The packaging material of  claim 286 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         288 . The packaging material of  claim 287 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         289 . The packaging material of  claim 286 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         290 . The packaging material of  claim 281 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         291 . A flexible inflatable packaging material produced according to the process comprising the steps of: 
 providing a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    providing a means for inflating the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    providing at least one inorganic item, the at least one inorganic item being disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate to form a flexible inflatable packaging material.    
     
     
         292 . The packaging material of  claim 291 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         293 . The packaging material of  claim 292 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         294 . The packaging material of  claim 292 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         295 . The packaging material of  claim 293 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         296 . The packaging material of  claim 295 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         297 . The packaging material of  claim 296 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         298 . The packaging material of  claim 297 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         299 . The packaging material of  claim 296 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         300 . The packaging material of  claim 291 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.  
     
     
         301 . A packaging material, comprising: 
 a flexible inflatable substrate having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface defining an expandable interior inflation space;    a means for inflating the expandable interior space of the flexible inflatable substrate; and    at least one inorganic decorative effect disposed on at least one of the exterior surface and the interior surface of the flexible inflatable substrate, wherein the at least one inorganic decorative effect simulates the appearance of a mass of strip, strand, or units of material intertwined with one another to form a cohesive, resilient mass disposed on the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag.    
     
     
         302 . The packaging material of  claim 301 , further including means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         303 . The packaging material of  claim 302 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is disposed in the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         304 . The packaging material of  claim 302 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag is associated with the exterior surface of the flexible bag and is in fluid communication with the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible inflatable bag.  
     
     
         305 . The packaging material of  claim 303 , wherein the means for inflating the flexible inflatable bag includes an exothermic reaction assembly, wherein when the exothermic reaction assembly is activated, an exothermic reaction takes place thereby producing a gas capable of filling at least a portion of the expandable interior inflation space of the flexible bag.  
     
     
         306 . The packaging material of  claim 305 , wherein the exothermic reaction assembly further includes at least two chambers, wherein at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak basic composition, and at least one of the at least two chambers contains a weak acid composition.  
     
     
         307 . The packaging material of  claim 306 , wherein the weak basic composition is a composition including a Group I or II element.  
     
     
         308 . The packaging material of  claim 307 , wherein the weak basic composition is selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         309 . The packaging material of  claim 306 , wherein the weak acid composition is vinegar.  
     
     
         310 . The packaging material of  claim 301 , wherein the exterior surface of the flexible inflatable bag includes a decorative effect.