Coating composition selection method and system

Abstract

A coating composition selection method is disclosed. The coating composition selection method includes: a step of receiving components and contents of candidate raw materials of a coating composition through a user input interface; a step in which information on an allergic component of the candidate raw material is confirmed; calculating the skin allergy index of the paint on the basis of the components and contents of the candidate raw materials and the allergy component information; a step for evaluating the skin harmfulness of the coating material on the basis of the skin allergy index of the coating material; and a step of selecting a coating composition on the basis of the evaluated skin harmfulness of the coating.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method and system for selecting coating compositions, and more specifically, to a method and system for selecting coating compositions by calculating a skin allergy index based on the allergenic and corrosive components of the raw materials constituting the body of the coating and the curing agent, and by evaluating the coating based on the skin allergy index. Background Technology

[0002] The increased use of chemicals in industrial settings enriches life but also exposes humans to new harmfulness and danger, and chemicals can be a cause of accidents and illnesses. The skin toxicity of chemicals refers to their harmful effects on the user's skin, manifesting as irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, skin cancer, skin infections, skin damage, and other skin diseases.

[0003] Marine coatings are used in the shipbuilding industry, but the epoxy resins and other components in these coatings are harmful to the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the skin toxicity of the coating before use to check its safety.

[0004] Currently, skin hazard is assessed using Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). However, in these MSDS, the skin allergy risk of chemicals used in coatings is not determined by the amount of skin-hazardous substances contained in the chemical; it is simply marked as "1" or "none" for skin allergy. Therefore, the MSDS for coatings does not specifically distinguish between skin allergies, making it difficult to accurately determine the harmfulness of the coating.

[0005] Furthermore, without a separate verification process for the skin hazard of coatings, unexpected skin problems often occur when coatings are applied in industrial settings based solely on Material Safety and Health Data Sheets (MSDS). Even when skin hazard is verified, only partial test methods (animal and animal alternative tests) are used, or only the skin irritation of the test items are verified, and only partial results are considered. Therefore, unexpected skin problems may occur when applied in actual industrial settings (shipbuilding / construction / automotive / other industrial coatings).

[0006] Therefore, to accurately assess the skin irritation of coatings, it is necessary to quantify the skin irritation based on the allergenicity, corrosiveness, and substance content of the coating components, and assign a risk level to the coating according to the skin irritation value. This would allow for the development of methods and systems for objectively and systematically assessing the risk level of coatings. Furthermore, objectively and systematically assessing the irritation of coatings can support the development of formulations for low-irritant skin coatings.

[0007] The matters described in this background section are prepared to enhance understanding of the background of the invention and may include matters that do not correspond to prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues The embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a method and system for selecting coating compositions. The method and system calculate a skin allergy index based on the allergenic and corrosive components of the raw materials of the coating bulk and curing agent, and assess the skin toxicity of the coating based on the skin allergy index, thereby enabling the selection of coating compositions.

[0009] Technical solution A method for selecting a coating composition according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: receiving the composition and content of candidate raw materials for a coating composition through a user input interface; confirming the allergenic component information of the candidate raw materials; calculating a skin allergy index of the coating based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials and the allergenic component information; assessing the skin toxicity of the coating based on the skin allergy index; and selecting a coating composition based on the assessed skin toxicity of the coating.

[0010] Furthermore, a coating composition selection system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a user input interface configured to receive the composition and content of candidate raw materials for a coating composition; and a controller configured to confirm the allergenic component information of the candidate raw materials, calculate the skin allergy index of the coating based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials and the allergenic component information, assess the skin toxicity of the coating based on the skin allergy index of the coating, and select a coating composition based on the assessed skin toxicity of the coating.

[0011] Invention Effects According to the present invention, the skin allergy index of the coating can be quantified based on the allergenicity information, corrosiveness information and substance content of the coating components, and the harmfulness of the coating can be objectively and systematically assessed based on the skin allergy index.

[0012] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the allergy index of the substrate and the curing agent can be calculated separately, and the allergy index of the final coating can be calculated considering the mixing ratio of the substrate and the curing agent, thereby facilitating the selection of the final coating ratio.

[0013] Furthermore, objective and systematic assessment of the harmfulness of coatings can support the development of formulations with low skin irritation. This, in turn, can contribute to the development of coatings that ensure worker safety and the realization of safe workplaces.

[0014] In addition, the effects that can be obtained or predicted through the embodiments of the present invention are disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention. That is, various effects predicted according to the embodiments of the present invention will be disclosed in the detailed description below. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Embodiments of this disclosure can be better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote the same or functionally similar elements.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a coating composition selection system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The flowchart of step S220.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The flowchart for step S230.

[0021] Figure 6 This is an example showing an allergy calculation table.

[0022] Figure 7 This is an example of a database that shows the allergenicity and corrosiveness ratings of the raw materials used to make coatings.

[0023] The accompanying drawings referenced above are not necessarily drawn to scale and should be understood as slightly simplified representations of various preferred features illustrating the basic principles of this disclosure. For example, specific design features of this disclosure, including particular dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, are partially determined by the specific intended application and usage environment.

[0024] Specific Implementation Form The terminology used herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of the mentioned features, integers, steps, operations, constituent elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of other features, integers, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one or all combinations of the associated enumerated items.

[0025] Furthermore, it should be understood that one or more of the following methods or aspects may be performed by at least one controller. The term "controller" can refer to a hardware device including a memory and a processor. The memory is configured to store program instructions, and the processor is specifically programmed to execute program instructions to perform one or more processes as described in more detail below. A controller, as described herein, may control a unit, module, component, device, or similar operation. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the following methods may be performed by a device including a controller in conjunction with one or more other components.

[0026] Furthermore, the controller disclosed herein can be implemented as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium comprising executable program instructions that are executed by a processor. Examples of computer-readable recording media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), optical disc (CD)-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash drive, smart card, and optical data storage device. The computer-readable recording medium can also be distributed across a computer network, allowing program instructions to be stored and executed in a distributed manner, for example, via a telematics server or a controller area network (CAN).

[0027] According to embodiments of the present invention, if the raw materials constituting the coating's matrix and curing agent, their contents, and the mixing ratio of the matrix and curing agent are input, a skin allergy index is calculated, and the risk level of the coating is automatically calculated based on the skin allergy index. Therefore, by objectively and systematically assessing the harmfulness of coatings, it is possible to support the development of formulations for low-irritant skin coatings and the selection of coating compositions.

[0028] In this specification, skin toxicity may include the meanings of skin allergy, skin corrosivity, and / or skin irritation. A skin allergen is a substance that causes skin sensitization upon contact with the skin; a skin corrosive substance is a substance that causes irreversible skin damage; and a skin irritant is a substance that causes reversible skin damage. In this specification, the description of allergy refers to skin allergy, and the description of corrosivity refers to skin corrosivity.

[0029] In the case of a coating as described in this specification, the coating may include a base and a curing agent.

[0030] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified in the description of this invention, the units of content used are based on weight, such as % or ratio, which means weight % or weight ratio.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a coating composition selection system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the coating hazard assessment system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a user input interface 10, a controller 20, and a user output interface 30. The user input interface 10, the controller 20, and the user output interface 30 are connected wirelessly or via wired connection to send or receive data to each other.

[0034] User input interface 10 can be configured to receive user input of the raw materials constituting the paint's bulk and curing agents, their contents, and / or the mixing ratio of the bulk and curing agents. For example, user input interface 10 may include a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, joystick, scroll wheel, stylus, etc. Furthermore, user input interface 10 may include soft keys implemented on a display.

[0035] In one example, such as Figure 6 The allergy calculation table shown is displayed on the user output interface 30. The user input interface 10 receives information from the user regarding the raw materials constituting the coating's matrix and hardener, their contents, and / or the mixing ratio of the matrix and hardener. Specifically, the user inputs the substance name (e.g., CAS No.) and content of each raw material constituting the matrix, and the substance name (e.g., CAS No.) and content of each raw material constituting the hardener. Furthermore, the user inputs the mixing ratio of the matrix and hardener in the allergy calculation table.

[0036] The controller 20 obtains information on the allergenic and / or corrosive components of the raw materials constituting the main body and the curing agent based on the substance names (e.g., CAS No.) of the raw materials input through the user input interface 10. That is, if the user inputs the substance names of the raw materials constituting the main body and the curing agent into the allergy calculation table, the controller 20 can obtain information from such data. Figure 7 The database of raw materials shown reads information on allergenic components and / or corrosive components for each raw material. Allergenic component information may include at least one of whether the component corresponds to an allergenic component and information on the allergenicity level; corrosive component information includes at least one of whether the component corresponds to a corrosive component and information on the corrosivity level. For this purpose, the controller 20 includes a memory 22, which stores information such as... Figure 5 The allergy calculation table shown and as follows Figure 7 The database of raw materials shown. For example... Figure 5 The allergy calculation table shown and as follows Figure 7 The database of raw materials shown is merely an example; the allergy calculation table and the database of raw materials are not limited to these examples. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Examples are shown in the text.

[0037] refer to Figure 7 The raw material database stores the allergenicity and corrosivity grades of raw materials used in the base and hardener of coatings. For example, the allergenicity grades of raw materials are classified as "HS" and "GMS," where "HS" indicates "high allergenicity" and "GMS" indicates "low or moderate allergenicity." Furthermore, raw materials with no information recorded in their allergenicity grade cell are not allergenic substances. Similarly, the corrosivity grades of raw materials are classified as "1A," "1B," and "1C," where "1A" indicates "high corrosivity," "1B" indicates "moderate corrosivity," and "1C" indicates "low corrosivity." Additionally, raw materials with an "X" in their corrosivity grade cell are not corrosive substances.

[0038] Databases can be EIS (Epoxy Information System), Material Safety and Health Data Sheets (MSDS), CLP Regulation (classification, labelling and packaging regulations of chemical substances and mixtures to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), KOSHA (Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency), or ECHA (European Chemicals Agency). These databases can be integrated or complementary. For example, if it is difficult to accurately determine the allergenicity and / or corrosivity level of a raw material using only a specific database, data from other databases can be used to supplement the specific database. Furthermore, insufficient information in a specific database can be supplemented through additional experiments.

[0039] The controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the main component and the curing agent based on the content of the raw materials constituting the coating input through the user input interface 10 and the allergy and / or corrosivity levels of the raw materials retrieved from the database, according to set rules. Generally, the curing agent has a higher skin allergy rate but is present in lower concentrations within the coating. If the skin allergy index of the coating is judged as a whole without considering the skin allergy indices of the main component and the curing agent separately, the skin allergy of the relatively low-concentration but highly allergenic curing agent may not be reflected in the coating's skin allergy index. Therefore, in coating development, to select a suitable main component or curing agent, the skin allergy indices of the main component and the curing agent are exported separately, and then used to calculate the coating's skin allergy index.

[0040] To calculate the skin allergy index of the substrate and the curing agent, the memory 22 of the controller 20 may store set rules. In one example, Table 1 illustrates rules for calculating the skin allergy index of the substrate and the curing agent. However, the rules for calculating the skin allergy index of the substrate and the curing agent are not limited to the examples in Table 1.

[0041] [Table 1]

[0042] According to the report "OPINION ON COMPARATIVE HEALTH EVALUATION OF EPOXY RESINSYSTEMS BELOW CONSIDERATION OF Awareness raising EFFICIENCY (FP-0384)" published by German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) in December 2016, when the proportion of allergenic components in a mixture is at most 40%, different influence factors are generated based on the allergenicity level (HS, GMS), and the allergenic effect can increase linearly. The influence factor can represent the degree to which the allergenic component affects the allergenic effect. For example, the influence factor for a highly allergenic (HS) component can be greater than that for a less allergenic (GMS) component. Furthermore, if the proportion of allergenic components exceeds 40%, the value of the influence factor can decrease, and it can be assumed that the influence factors for highly allergenic (HS) and less allergenic (GMS) components are uniform.

[0043] Furthermore, according to the report, if the mixture contains less than 10% corrosive components, the corrosive effect can be weak; if it contains more than 10% corrosive components, it can exhibit a corrosive effect.

[0044] Therefore, when calculating the skin allergy index used to determine the harmfulness of coatings, different rules are applied and the skin allergy index is calculated depending on whether the proportion of allergenic components in the mixture exceeds a certain benchmark (e.g., 40%) or whether the proportion of corrosive components exceeds a certain benchmark (e.g., 10%).

[0045] Furthermore, corrosive ingredients damage the skin barrier, allowing allergens to easily penetrate the skin and induce hypersensitivity. Therefore, if a corrosive effect is observed when the proportion of a corrosive ingredient exceeds a certain benchmark (e.g., 10%), a weighting can be assigned to the allergy index.

[0046] As shown in Table 1, the rules for calculating the skin allergy index of the substrate and curing agent include four rules: Rules 1 through 4. Rule 1 applies when the sum of corrosive components in the raw materials constituting the substrate or curing agent is less than 10% and the sum of allergenic components is less than 40%. According to Rule 1, 15 points are assigned to each 1% of highly allergenic (HS) component and 5 points are assigned to each 1% of low-allergenic (GMS) component, and the skin allergy index for all allergenic components is summed.

[0047] Rule 2 applies when the total amount of corrosive components in the raw materials constituting the main body or curing agent is less than 10% and the total amount of allergenic components is more than 40%. According to Rule 2, Rule 1 applies until the total amount of allergenic components reaches 40%. When the amount of skin allergens increases, the frequency of skin allergies increases linearly with that amount; however, if the total amount of skin allergenic components is more than 40%, the increase in the frequency of skin allergies decreases. Therefore, Rule 1 applies until the total amount of allergenic components reaches 40%. In this case, high-allergenic (HS) components are given priority. That is, until the total amount of allergenic components reaches 40%, 15 points are preferentially assigned to each 1% of high-allergenic (HS) components, followed by 5 points for each 1% of low-allergenic (GMS) components.

[0048] Then, for components where the sum of allergenic ingredients exceeds 40%, 2.5 points are assigned to each 1% of highly allergenic (HS) and low-allergenic (GMS) ingredients. If the total amount of allergenic ingredients is above 40%, the increase in the frequency of skin allergies decreases, but highly allergenic substances are more likely to cause skin allergic reactions than low-allergenic substances. Therefore, if both highly and low-allergenic substances are included in the substrate or curing agent, priority is given to highly allergenic substances until the sum of allergenic ingredients reaches 40%, and priority is given to low-allergenic substances for amounts exceeding 40%, thereby preventing a decrease in the overall skin allergy index of the substrate or curing agent due to low-allergenic substances.

[0049] For example, if the raw materials constituting the main body or curing agent include 30% highly allergenic (HS) components and 20% low-allergenic (GMS) components, then the 30% highly allergenic component is preferentially assigned 15 points, the 10% low-allergenic component (i.e., 40% - 30%) is assigned 5 points, and the remaining 10% low-allergenic component (20% - 10%) is assigned 2.5 points, resulting in an allergy index of 525 (= 30*15 + 10*5 + 10*2.5).

[0050] Rule 3 applies when the sum of corrosive components in the raw materials constituting the main body or curing agent exceeds 10% and the sum of allergenic components is less than 40%. Components indicating skin corrosivity erode the skin barrier, thereby increasing the skin penetration of allergenic substances. Therefore, if the main body or curing agent includes both skin-corrosive and skin-allergenic components, the skin-corrosive components can be weighted when calculating the skin allergy index. However, since skin-corrosive components exceeding 10% can corrode the skin barrier, the weighting of skin-corrosive components is only applied when the content of skin-corrosive components exceeds 10%.

[0051] According to Rule 3, the skin allergy index, excluding corrosiveness, is calculated according to Rule 1. The skin allergy index is calculated as the product of the skin allergy index excluding corrosiveness and the weighting based on the corrosive components. The weighting based on corrosive components begins when the sum of corrosive components exceeds 10%. The weighting based on the grade of corrosive substance is 0.2 for every 1% of highly corrosive (1A) component, 0.15 for every 1% of moderately corrosive (1B) component, and 0.1 for every 1% of low-corrosive (1C) component.

[0052] For example, Table 2 illustrates the content, allergenicity, and corrosiveness information of a matrix composed of three substances (Substance A, Substance B, and Substance C). In Table 2, the sum of the allergenic components of the three substances is 15%, and the sum of the corrosive components is 30%, therefore Rule 3 applies.

[0053] [Table 2]

[0054] First, disregarding corrosiveness, the skin allergy index is 125, which is the sum of the skin allergy indices of substance A (5*15=75) and substance B (10*5=50). Furthermore, the weights of the corrosive components are 4, which is the sum of the weights of substance A (5*0.2=1), substance B (10*0.15=1.5), and substance C (15*0.1=1.5). Therefore, the skin allergy index of the subject in the example in Table 2 is calculated to be 125*4=500.

[0055] Rule 4 applies when the sum of corrosive components in the raw materials constituting the main body or curing agent exceeds 10% and the sum of allergenic components exceeds 40%. According to Rule 4, since the sum of allergenic components exceeds 40%, the skin allergy index, excluding corrosivity, is calculated according to Rule 2. The skin allergy index is calculated as the product of the skin allergy index excluding corrosivity and the weighting based on the corrosive components. The weighting based on corrosive components begins when the sum of corrosive components exceeds 10%, and the weighting based on the grade of corrosive substance is 0.2 for every 1% of highly corrosive (1A) component, 0.15 for every 1% of ordinary corrosive (1B) component, and 0.1 for every 1% of low-corrosive (1C) component.

[0056] The controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the coating based on the skin allergy index of the substrate and curing agent calculated above and the mixing ratio of the substrate and curing agent input through the user input interface 10. For example, the skin allergy index of the coating can be calculated by the following formula 1.

[0057] (Equation 1) Allergy index of coating = Allergy index of substrate * Mixing fraction of substrate + Allergy index of hardener * Mixing fraction of hardener The controller 20 can assess the harmfulness of the coating based on whether the calculated skin allergy index of the coating is above the benchmark allergy index.

[0058] For example, if the baseline allergy index is set to 1500 points, the controller 20 will determine that the paint is a harmful paint if the calculated skin allergy index of the paint is above 1500 points, and a harmless or non-harmful paint if it is below 1500 points. The baseline allergy index can be set differently depending on the scoring method or experiment.

[0059] If scores are assigned according to Table 1 in this specification, and based on animal experiments or animal alternative experiments described below, the baseline allergy index can be set to 1200 to 1700 points, more preferably around 1500 points. In this case, regarding animal experiments, it is preferred to perform the skin irritation / corrosion test using OECD TG 404, and the skin allergy test using OECD TG 406. Regarding animal alternative experiments, it is preferred to perform the skin corrosion test using OECD TG 435, and the skin allergy test using OECD TG 442B.

[0060] The baseline allergy index can be set by animal or animal substitute experiments. For example, if the harmfulness judgment results of animal or animal substitute experiments based on the calculated skin allergy index of the coating exceed a certain allergy index, and the probability of the coating being judged as harmful by animal or animal substitute experiments is high, then a certain allergy index can be set as the baseline allergy index. According to an embodiment of the present invention, by setting a baseline allergy index, the harmfulness of the coating can be easily predicted by inputting the composition and content of the main component and the curing agent, as well as the mixing ratio.

[0061] In another embodiment, controller 20 can categorize the calculated skin allergy index of the coating into risk levels at set stages. For example, as shown in Table 3, controller 20 can categorize the skin allergy index into 11 risk levels in 200-point units. However, it should be understood that the risk level setting stages are not limited to 11 stages.

[0062] [Table 3]

[0063] In Table 3, higher risk levels are assessed as harmful to the skin. Thus, according to embodiments of the present invention, by quantifying the skin allergenicity of the coating into a skin allergy index, the risk level can be objectively and systematically assessed. If a new coating is developed, its risk level can be calculated by filling in the raw materials constituting the coating's main component and the curing agent in the allergy calculation table. Therefore, the development of coatings with low risk levels can be supported.

[0064] For these purposes, the controller 20 may be implemented by one or more processors configured to operate, the memory 22 of the controller 20 storing programmed instructions that cause the one or more processors to execute the steps of the coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] User output interface 30 displays, for example Figure 6 The allergy calculation table shown allows the user to input the raw materials constituting the paint's base and hardener, their content, and / or the mixing ratio of the base and hardener via the user input interface 10. Furthermore, the user output interface 30 can display the results of executing the program set on the controller 20 or provide warnings such as sound. For example, the user output interface 30 can display the skin allergy index of the base and hardener, the skin allergy index of the paint, and / or the risk level calculated by the controller 20. Additionally, the user output interface 30 can provide warnings via visuals and sound when the risk level is high.

[0066] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] refer to Figure 2 The user can receive the composition and content of candidate raw materials for the coating composition through the user input interface (S110). The coating composition may consist of a mixture of a base material and a curing agent. Furthermore, information on the allergenic components of the candidate raw materials can be confirmed (S120). This allergenic component information may be stored in a database. The allergenic component information may include whether the component of the candidate raw material corresponds to an allergenic component and information on the allergenicity level. Furthermore, the allergenicity level may include a high allergenicity level and a low or moderate allergenicity level.

[0068] Then, based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials and information on allergenic components, the skin allergy index (S130) of the coating can be calculated.

[0069] Furthermore, the skin irritation index of the coating can be used to assess the skin toxicity of the coating (S140). Additionally, a coating composition can be selected based on the assessed skin toxicity of the coating (S150).

[0070] The following is for reference. Figures 3 to 5 The method for selecting a coating composition according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail below.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The flowchart of step S220, Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The flowchart for step S230.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the coating composition selection method according to an embodiment of the present invention receives the components, contents, and mixing ratio of the raw materials constituting the body and curing agent of the coating (S200). For example, the controller 20 can display, through the user output interface 30, the following information: Figure 6 The allergy calculation table shown allows the user to input the raw materials, their content, and the mixing ratio of the main body and curing agent constituting the coating through the user input interface 10. The controller 20 can receive the raw materials, their content, and the mixing ratio of the main body and curing agent constituting the coating input by the user.

[0073] The controller 20 identifies the raw materials constituting the main body and hardener of the coating input by the user, and obtains information on allergenic and / or corrosive components of the raw materials constituting the main body and hardener (S210). The allergenic component information may include at least one of whether the component corresponds to an allergenic component and information on the allergenicity level; the corrosive component information may include at least one of whether the component corresponds to a corrosive component and information on the corrosivity level. For example, the controller 20 can retrieve the allergenic and / or corrosive component information of the raw materials constituting the main body and hardener of the coating from a database stored in the memory 22.

[0074] If the allergenicity and / or corrosivity ratings of the raw materials constituting the substrate or curing agent are obtained, the controller 20 calculates the skin allergenicity of the substrate according to the set rules (S220). Reference Figure 4 The S220 procedure will be explained in more detail.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, in order to determine the applicable rule for calculating the skin allergy of the subject, the controller 20 calculates the sum of the contents of allergenic ingredients and corrosive ingredients in the raw materials constituting the subject (S300). That is, based on the sum of the contents of allergenic ingredients and corrosive ingredients, one of rule 1 to rule 4 applies, therefore the controller 20 calculates the sum of the contents of allergenic ingredients and corrosive ingredients in the raw materials constituting the subject.

[0076] Then, the controller 20 determines whether the content of allergenic raw materials in the raw materials constituting the main body is less than the set allergenic content (e.g., 40%) (S310). In step S310, if it is determined that the content of allergenic raw materials in the raw materials constituting the main body is less than the set allergenic content (e.g., 40%), the controller 20 determines whether the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials in the raw materials constituting the main body is less than or equal to the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%) (S320).

[0077] In step S320, if the sum of the contents of corrosive ingredients in the main body is below a set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), then controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the main body according to rule 1 (S330). For example, 15 points are assigned to each 1% of highly allergenic (HS) ingredient, 5 points are assigned to each 1% of low-allergenic (GMS) ingredient, and the skin allergy indices of all allergenic ingredients are added together.

[0078] In step S320, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the main body exceeds the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the main body according to rule 3 (S340). For example, the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index by multiplying the skin allergy index without considering corrosivity by the weight of the corrosive components. However, the skin allergy index without considering corrosivity is calculated according to rule 1, and the weight of the corrosive components is assigned starting when the sum of the corrosive components exceeds 10%. The weight assigned according to the grade of corrosive substances is 0.2 for each 1% of highly corrosive (1A) components, 0.15 for each 1% of ordinary corrosive (1B) components, and 0.1 for each 1% of low-corrosive (1C) components.

[0079] If, in step S310, it is determined that the content of allergenic raw materials in the raw materials constituting the main body is a set allergenic content (e.g., 40%) or higher, then the controller 20 determines whether the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials in the raw materials constituting the main body is a set corrosive content (e.g., 10%) or lower (S350).

[0080] In step S350, if the sum of the contents of corrosive ingredients in the main body is below a set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the main body according to rule 2 (S360). For example, rule 1 applies until the sum of allergenic components reaches 40%, but priority is given to highly skin-allergenic substances. For components with a sum of allergenic components exceeding 40%, 2.5 points are assigned to each 1% of highly allergenic (HS) and low-allergenic (GMS) components.

[0081] In step S350, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the main body exceeds the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the main body according to rule 4 (S370). For example, the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index by multiplying the skin allergy index without considering corrosivity by the weight of the corrosive components. However, the skin allergy index without considering corrosivity is calculated according to rule 2, and the weight of the corrosive components is assigned starting when the sum of the corrosive components exceeds 10%. The weight assigned according to the grade of corrosive substances is 0.2 for each 1% of highly corrosive (1A) components, 0.15 for each 1% of ordinary corrosive (1B) components, and 0.1 for each 1% of low-corrosive (1C) components.

[0082] Furthermore, the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy risk of the curing agent according to the set rules (S230). (Reference) Figure 5 The S230 procedure will be explained in more detail.

[0083] like Figure 5As shown, in order to determine the applicable rules for calculating the skin allergy of the curing agent, the controller 20 calculates the sum of the contents of allergenic raw materials and the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials in the raw materials constituting the curing agent (S400).

[0084] Then, the controller 20 determines whether the content of the allergenic material in the raw materials constituting the curing agent is below the set allergenic content (e.g., 40%) (S410). In step S410, if it is determined that the content of the allergenic material in the raw materials constituting the curing agent is below the set allergenic content (e.g., 40%), the controller 20 determines whether the sum of the contents of the corrosive materials in the raw materials constituting the curing agent is below the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%) (S420).

[0085] In step S420, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the curing agent is less than or equal to the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the curing agent according to rule 1 (S430). In step S420, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the curing agent exceeds the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the curing agent according to rule 3 (S440).

[0086] If in step 410 it is determined that the content of allergenic raw materials in the raw materials constituting the curing agent is a set allergenic content (e.g., 40%) or more, then the controller 20 determines whether the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials in the raw materials constituting the curing agent is a set corrosive content (e.g., 10%) or less (S450).

[0087] In step S450, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the curing agent is less than or equal to the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the curing agent according to rule 2 (S460). In step S450, if the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials constituting the curing agent exceeds the set corrosive content (e.g., 10%), the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the curing agent according to rule 4 (S470).

[0088] Refer again Figure 3 If the skin allergy index of the main component is calculated in step S220 and the skin allergy index of the curing agent is calculated in step S230, then the controller 20 calculates the skin allergy index of the coating based on the skin allergy indices of the main component and the curing agent and the mixing ratio of the main component and the curing agent (S240). For example, the controller 20 can calculate the skin allergy index of the coating using (Equation 1).

[0089] Then, the controller 20 assesses the skin toxicity based on the calculated skin allergy index of the paint (S250). For example, if the calculated skin allergy index of the paint is less than the benchmark allergy index, the controller 20 determines it to be a non-hazardous paint; if it is above the benchmark allergy index, it determines it to be a hazardous paint.

[0090] For example, if the baseline allergy index is set to 1500 points, the controller 20 can classify the paint as hazardous if the calculated skin allergy index is above 1500 points, and as non-hazardous if it is below 1500 points. Alternatively, as shown in Table 3, the controller 20 can classify the calculated skin allergy index of the paint into one of 11 risk levels, and classify it as hazardous if the calculated risk level is above the set risk level.

[0091] Furthermore, the controller 20 can select a coating composition based on the assessed skin toxicity (S260). If the skin toxicity assessment result shows a calculated skin allergy index above the benchmark allergy index, thus classifying it as a hazardous coating, it can be left unselected as a coating composition. Then, by re-entering the components, content, and mixing ratio of the new composition through the user input interface 10, the new composition can be evaluated.

[0092] Alternatively, controller 20 may select a coating composition if the skin allergy index calculated from the skin toxicity assessment results does not meet the baseline allergy level.

[0093] Through one embodiment of the present invention, objective criteria and methods for evaluating coating compositions are provided, allowing for the selection of coating compositions with low skin toxicity.

[0094] Additionally, the controller 20 can display the skin allergy index of the main body and the curing agent, the skin allergy index of the coating and / or the risk level through the user output interface 30. When the risk level is high, the controller 20 can issue a warning through the user output interface 30 using visuals, sound and other means.

[0095] On the other hand, this specification describes the sequential execution of steps S220 and S230, but the order of steps S220 and S230 may differ from the disclosed procedure. That is, step S220 may be performed after step S230.

[0096] Example 1 The process of calculating the skin allergy index and risk level of the coating according to Example 1 is described in more detail below. Table 4 illustrates the raw materials, their contents, and mixing ratios of the main body and curing agent constituting the coating according to Example 1.

[0097] [Table 4]

[0098] First, the controller 20 displays the corrosion calculation table shown in Table 4 through the user output interface 30, and the user records the raw materials, their content and the mixing ratio of the main body and the curing agent that make up the coating through the user input interface 10.

[0099] The controller 20 retrieves the allergenicity and corrosiveness levels of each raw material from the database stored in the memory 22, and calculates the skin allergy index of the main body and the curing agent.

[0100] To calculate the skin allergy index of the subject, if the sum of the contents of allergenic raw materials and the sum of the contents of corrosive raw materials in the raw materials constituting the subject are calculated, they are 70% and 0% respectively. Based on this, the skin allergy index of the subject is calculated according to Rule 2 as follows.

[0101] The subject's skin allergy index = 40*15 + 10*2.5 + 10*2.5 + 10*2.5 = 675 To calculate the skin allergy index of the curing agent, if the sum of the contents of allergenic raw materials and corrosive raw materials constituting the curing agent is calculated, the sum of the contents of allergenic raw materials and corrosive raw materials is 90% and 70% respectively. Based on this, the skin allergy index of the main body is calculated according to Rule 4 as follows.

[0102] Ignoring corrosiveness, the allergy index = 40*15 + 25*2.5 + 10*2.5 + 5*2.5 = 725 Based on the weight of corrosivity = 65 * 0.15 + 5 * 0.15 = 10.5 The skin allergy index of the curing agent = 725 * 10.5 = 7612.5 The controller 20 calculates the allergy index and risk level of the coating based on the skin allergy index of the substrate and the curing agent, as well as the mixing ratio of the substrate and the curing agent, as follows.

[0103] The allergenicity index of the paint = 675 * 0.8 + 7612.5 * 0.2 = 2062.5 Risk level = XI If the allergenicity index of the coating is higher than the benchmark allergenicity index or the benchmark risk level, the controller 20 can determine that it is a hazardous coating. In this case, the benchmark allergenicity index or benchmark risk level can be based on animal or animal alternative experiments. The following describes in more detail the animal or animal alternative experimental methods used to determine the hazard of a coating.

[0104] animal experiments In this invention, the skin irritation and corrosiveness of the coating can be verified using the OECD TG404 test. Furthermore, the skin allergy-inducing properties of the coating can be verified using the OECD TG406 test. The test methods for OECD TG404, OECD TG406, etc., are well-known and will not be described in detail here.

[0105] Table 5 below shows the scores assigned to and the skin reaction indexes assessed based on the degree of erythema (scabs) and edema formation. Furthermore, by applying the base or curing agent to the animal's skin and observing the skin reaction at 24, 48, and 72 hours, the skin reaction indexes were derived, and the average skin reaction index (Equation 2) could be calculated.

[0106] [Table 5]

[0107] (Equation 2) Mean score = (Skin reaction index after 24 hours + Skin reaction index after 48 hours + Skin reaction index after 72 hours) / 3 Table 6 below, based on GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, 2019), shows the criteria for determining the risk level of skin corrosion / irritation based on the skin reaction index and the time of onset of skin corrosion reaction.

[0108] [Table 6]

[0109] The skin corrosivity of a coating can determine whether irreversible damage (skin corrosion reaction) has occurred on the skin, and representative examples of skin corrosion reactions include skin necrosis and hemorrhagic scabs. The faster a skin corrosion reaction is observed on the skin, the stronger the skin corrosivity of the coating.

[0110] Preferably, if no skin corrosion reaction occurs within 4 hours according to the judgment criteria, the coating can be judged as non-corrosive; if the skin reaction index is less than 1.5, the coating can be judged as non-irritating.

[0111] In this invention, the skin allergenicity of the coating can be verified using the OECD TG406 test. In the OECD TG406 test, to verify only skin allergenicity, the experiment can be conducted at a coating concentration that does not cause skin corrosion / irritation.

[0112] Table 7 below shows the Magnusson and Kligman grading for allergy testing, which is determined by the OECD TG406 test based on the erythema and edema reactions observed in animals.

[0113] [Table 7]

[0114] Table 8 below shows the skin allergy levels determined based on GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, 2019).

[0115] The Magnusson-Kligman rating of a coating is determined using the OECD TG406 test. The effectiveness rate can be determined by the percentage of subjects with a Magnusson-Kligman rating of 1 to 3 out of the total experimental population. For example, in an OECD TG406 test on 20 animals, if 12 animals have a Magnusson-Kligman rating of 1 to 3, then the effectiveness rate of the coating is 60%.

[0116] In this invention, skin allergy can be determined based on the concentration and sensitivity of the coating. Preferably, the coating corresponding to experimental results 1A or 1B can be determined to cause skin allergy.

[0117] [Table 8]

[0118] Animal substitution experiments According to one embodiment of the present invention, when animal testing is not possible due to corporate ethical concerns, highly reliable alternative animal testing can be used to determine whether a coating is harmful.

[0119] In one embodiment, the corrosivity rating of the coating can be confirmed by the OECD TG 435 test, which is an alternative to the rabbit test. The OECD TG 435 test method is well known and its detailed description is omitted in this specification.

[0120] Table 9 below shows the criteria for differentiating GHS corrosion levels using the OECD TG 435 test, based on the time required from the moment the test substance is applied to the barrier membrane to the point of penetration through the barrier.

[0121] [Table 9]

[0122] According to one embodiment of this specification, the skin corrosivity rating of a coating can be determined using the OECD TG 435 test. For example, if the coating is classified as non-corrosive, it can be determined to meet the corrosivity rating criteria based on animal alternative testing.

[0123] If the skin corrosivity level does not meet the benchmark, the coating formulation can be redesigned.

[0124] In addition, the OECD TG 442B (LLNA) test, an alternative to the guinea pig test, can be used to determine skin allergy to the paint. The OECD TG 442B (LLNA) test measures the proliferation of lymphocytes in the lymph nodes around the ears of mice after exposure to the test substance. Allergy is determined by measuring the proliferation of lymphocytes in the lymph nodes involved in the immune response using optical measurements. A Stimulation Index (SI) value greater than or equal to a preset SI value (e.g., 1.6).

[0125] The SI value is a value calculated to assess the skin-sensitivity of the test substance and can be derived from the following equation 3.

[0126] (Equation 3) SI value = Lymphocyte concentration in experimental group / Lymphocyte concentration in control group The animal experiments or animal substitution experiments described above can be used to determine the irritant / corrosiveness and allergenicity level of the coating, and to establish a baseline allergenicity index. For example, the baseline allergenicity index can be set at 1500 points.

[0127] Alternatively, by using a paint that meets the first hazard standard but does not meet the baseline allergy index as the subject, and conducting the animal experiments or animal alternative experiments described above, the hazard of the paint can be assessed a second time. If the irritation / corrosivity or allergy level of the paint does not meet the baseline through animal experiments or animal alternative experiments, the paint formulation can be redesigned.

[0128] To reiterate, after assessing the skin toxicity based on the skin allergy index of the coating (S250), the coating composition can be selected through animal experiments or animal alternative experiments (S260). Alternatively, a patch test can be conducted after the animal experiments or animal alternative experiments to select the coating composition. Even if the coating is determined to be non-toxic based on the skin allergy index, if the coating composition is deemed unsuitable in animal experiments, animal alternative experiments, or patch tests, the coating's composition, content, mixing ratio of the base and hardener, etc., can be readjusted to reset the coating formulation.

[0129] In this invention, if the skin irritation / corrosivity level of the coating meets the benchmark, animal or animal alternative tests may be additionally conducted to confirm the potential skin allergy of the coating. This specification describes conducting a test to determine the skin corrosivity / irritation of the coating first, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0130] If the allergy level of the coating does not meet the benchmark, the coating formulation can be redesigned. Furthermore, if the skin irritation / corrosion and skin allergy levels of the coating meet the benchmark, patch testing can be performed on workers.

[0131] Patch test If the skin corrosivity, irritation, and allergenicity of the coating have been verified through animal experiments or animal substitution experiments, then patch tests or skin diagnostic tests can be performed on workers. Skin diagnostic tests can be conducted using patch tests, and can also be used to identify the allergenic antigens in patients with allergic contact dermatitis.

[0132] Skin rashes may be related to irritation / corrosion caused by direct contact with the paint (contact irritation reaction), or they may be caused by skin allergies in the worker without contact with the paint (non-contact irritation reaction, allergic reaction). Non-contact irritation reactions differ from contact irritation reactions and are related to the worker's immune system. Therefore, by examining workers who may have non-contact irritation reactions, it is possible to rule out the use of that paint or to enhance the wearing of protective equipment during painting operations.

[0133] To identify workers with non-contact irritation reactions, a skin diagnostic test can consist of four stages. First, the paint is diluted with a solution of water, alcohol, acetone, or petroleum jelly to create a sample at an appropriate concentration that does not cause a reaction in normal individuals but only in those with sensitive skin. At this stage, the paint concentration is preferably less than 1%.

[0134] Furthermore, the sample is manufactured into a patch and applied to the worker, and the worker's skin is observed for 48 hours to determine whether an allergic reaction occurs. A judgment is made based on whether a reaction occurs. Here, the application of the sample patch to the worker and the observation of the worker's skin can be done automatically by the data collection unit, and the invention is not limited to this.

[0135] Immune responses can occur at intervals, so after the first assessment, the patch is removed and the site of patch removal is observed for 48 hours to see if a delayed response occurs. A second assessment is then conducted based on whether a delayed response occurs.

[0136] Finally, observe the worker's skin for up to 4 days after applying the patch. If a positive reaction appears on the worker's skin, it can be determined as allergic contact dermatitis, and the worker can be considered to have experienced a non-contact irritation reaction.

[0137] Table 10 below shows the skin reaction assessment criteria of the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG). A score of 1+ or higher indicates a positive reaction.

[0138] [Table 10]

[0139] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the skin reaction according to the criteria for determining skin reaction based on the International Committee for Research on Contact Dermatitis.

[0140] refer to Figure 7 This allows us to confirm that the reactions on the skin appear distinctly in the order of doubtful reaction, weak reaction, strong reaction, extreme reaction, and irritant reaction.

[0141] The skin toxicity of the coating can be verified three times through the third skin toxicity verification stage with on-site workers.

[0142] Thus, according to the coating composition selection method of the present invention, the skin allergy of the coating can be calculated by the allergy level and content of the components in the coating (body, curing agent), and the harmfulness can be assessed by the calculated allergy index.

[0143] According to the coating composition selection method of the present invention, if the inherent numbers and contents of the components of the coating are filled in, the allergy index and grade are calculated, thus the skin allergy index and grade of the coating can be quantitatively determined.

[0144] Therefore, to address the current problem of labeling paint allergies as "allergenic 1" or "non-allergenic" without specifically identifying the allergenicity of a paint, it is possible to accurately determine the skin allergenicity of a paint during its development and use.

[0145] Furthermore, according to the coating composition selection method of the present invention, the skin allergy index and skin allergy level of the components contained in the coating are currently calculated based on a database, and the overall skin allergy of the coating can be predicted based on the skin allergy index and skin allergy level.

[0146] The coating composition selection method of the present invention can quantitatively and systematically assess the skin toxicity of the coating, and based on the assessment results, formulate the coating so that the formulated coating can be used, thereby minimizing skin problems caused to the user by the coating.

[0147] The above describes preferred embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. All modifications that can be easily made by those skilled in the art and are considered equivalent to the embodiments of the present invention are included.

[0148] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures] 10: User input interface 20: Controller 22: Memory; 30: User Output Interface

Claims

1. A method for selecting a coating composition, comprising: The step of receiving the composition and content of candidate raw materials for the coating composition through a user input interface; The step of confirming the allergenic component information of the candidate raw materials through a controller; The steps involve calculating the skin allergy index of the coating based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials and the information on the allergenic components, depending on whether the content of the component corresponding to the allergenic component is above or below the set allergenic content, and considering or not considering the allergy level of the allergenic component. The step of assessing the skin toxicity of the coating based on the skin allergy index of the coating using a controller; as well as The steps for selecting coating compositions based on the skin toxicity of the coatings as assessed.

2. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, wherein, The coating composition includes a base and a curing agent.

3. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 2 further includes: The steps for receiving the mixing ratio of the substrate and the curing agent.

4. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 3, wherein, The steps for assessing the skin toxicity of the coating include assessing the skin toxicity of the coating based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials, information on the allergenic components, and the mixing ratio of the carrier and the curing agent.

5. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, further comprising: The step of confirming the corrosive component information of the candidate raw materials. The steps for calculating the skin allergy index of the coating include: Based on the corrosive component information, if the content of a component corresponding to a corrosive component is above a set corrosive content, then a step is performed to calculate the skin allergy index of the coating based on the weight of the corrosive component content; and Based on the corrosive component information, if the content of the component corresponding to the corrosive component is less than the set corrosive content, then the step of calculating the skin allergy index of the coating based on the weight of the corrosive component content is not performed.

6. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, wherein, The information on allergenic components is stored in a database and includes at least one of the following: whether it corresponds to an allergenic component and information on the allergy level. The allergy level includes a high allergy level and a low or normal allergy level.

7. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 5, wherein, The corrosive component information is stored in a database and includes at least one of the following: whether it corresponds to a corrosive component and information on the corrosion level.

8. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, wherein, The steps for calculating the skin allergy index of the coating include: If the content of the ingredient corresponding to the allergenic component is not sufficient to meet the allergenic content setting, then the step of calculating the skin allergy index is taken into account the allergenicity level of the ingredient.

9. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, wherein, The steps for calculating the skin allergy index of the coating include: When the content of the component with allergenic properties is set at or above the allergenic content, The steps include: prioritizing the setting of allergenic content for ingredients corresponding to high allergenicity levels, and calculating a skin allergy index considering the allergenicity level of the ingredients that have reached the set allergenic content; and... The step of calculating the skin allergy index does not consider the allergy level of the ingredients exceeding the set allergy content, but prioritizes ingredients corresponding to low or normal allergy levels.

10. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 9, wherein, The allergy level includes a high allergy level and a low or normal allergy level. The skin allergy index per unit content corresponding to the high allergy level of the ingredient is set to be greater than the skin allergy index per unit content corresponding to the low or normal allergy level of the ingredient.

11. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 1, wherein, The steps for assessing the skin toxicity of the coating include: If the skin allergy index of the coating is higher than the benchmark allergy index, it is judged as a dangerous coating, and the process returns to the step of receiving the composition and content of candidate raw materials for a new coating composition.

12. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 11, wherein, The benchmark allergy index is established by animal or animal alternative experiments.

13. The method for selecting a coating composition according to claim 11, wherein, The benchmark allergy index was set at 1500 points.

14. A coating composition selection system, comprising: The user input interface is configured to receive the composition and content of candidate raw materials for the coating composition; as well as The controller is configured to confirm the allergenic component information of the candidate raw materials, calculate the skin allergy index of the coating based on the composition and content of the candidate raw materials and the allergenic component information, and according to whether the content of the component corresponding to the allergenic component is greater than or equal to a set allergenic content, considering or disregarding the allergenicity level of the allergenic component, assess the skin toxicity of the coating based on the skin allergy index of the coating, and select a coating composition based on the assessed skin toxicity of the coating.

15. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that enables the method of any one of claims 1 to 13 to be executed on a computer.

16. A computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium, comprising executable instructions which, when executed by at least one computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 13.

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