Method for manufacturing a slow-release functional unit, slow-release functional unit and household appliance

Abstract

The application provides a method for preparing a slow-release functional unit, a slow-release functional unit and a household appliance. The method for preparing the slow-release functional unit comprises: sequentially performing second blending and second granulation on a functional master batch and insoluble material to obtain the slow-release functional unit; the functional master batch is a master batch containing a functional material. The blending and granulation of the functional master batch and the insoluble material can make the functional master batch containing the functional material form a soluble functional part of the slow-release functional unit, the soluble functional part is in communication with the outside of an insoluble base frame and has a continuous structure, the functional material can be released into the environment outside the insoluble base frame along with the dissolution of the soluble functional part in water, and because the soluble functional part has a continuous structure, all the functional materials on the surface and in the interior of the insoluble base frame can be gradually completely released along with the use of the slow-release functional unit, thereby prolonging the use time of the slow-release functional unit and the utilization rate of the functional material, and avoiding the waste of the functional material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of materials technology, specifically to a method for preparing a sustained-release functional unit, the sustained-release functional unit, and a household appliance. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the common approach to achieving multiple functions such as odor removal, scale removal, and sterilization is to add functional substances to the working environment, such as scale-removing salts, bactericidal silver phosphates, and healthy natural bactericides. To facilitate use and maintain long-lasting effectiveness, these functional substances typically need to be loaded onto a carrier; for example, silver phosphate needs to be mounted in glass, natural antibacterial agents in a plastic matrix, and activated carbon can support scale-removing salts. However, these functional substances are essentially inorganic or small molecules, and are basically randomly dispersed in the matrix, making it difficult to form a stable release pathway. Therefore, theoretically, only functional substances dispersed on the surface of the matrix can be released and exert their function, while functional substances inside the matrix are difficult to dissolve in water and release, thus failing to fully exert their effects. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in related technologies. Therefore, one objective of this invention is to provide a method for preparing sustained-release functional units that is simple to implement, has a mature process, is suitable for industrial production, and allows the prepared sustained-release functional units to completely release functional materials in an aqueous environment.

[0004] In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for preparing a sustained-release functional unit. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method for preparing a sustained-release functional unit includes: sequentially subjecting a functional masterbatch and an insoluble material to a second blending and a second granulation treatment to obtain the sustained-release functional unit, wherein the functional masterbatch is a masterbatch containing a functional material.

[0005] In the above method, functional masterbatch containing functional materials required for the use of household appliances is selected as raw material. The functional masterbatch is blended and granulated with insoluble materials. This method allows the functional masterbatch containing functional materials to form the soluble functional part of the sustained-release functional unit. The functional materials are dispersed in the soluble functional part. In the sustained-release functional unit, the insoluble material serves as the insoluble framework. The soluble functional part is connected to the outside of the insoluble framework and has a continuous structure. In this way, the functional materials can be released into the environment outside the insoluble framework as the soluble functional part dissolves in water. Moreover, since the soluble functional part has a continuous structure, as the sustained-release functional unit is used, all functional materials on the surface and inside of the insoluble framework can be gradually and completely released, thereby improving the use time of the sustained-release functional unit and the utilization rate of functional materials, and avoiding waste of functional materials.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, before performing the second blending, the method further includes: sequentially performing a first blending and a first granulation treatment on the functional material and the soluble substrate to obtain a functional masterbatch.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, before performing the first blending, the method further includes: pre-drying the soluble substrate at a temperature of 50°C to 80°C.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, before performing the first granulation or the second granulation process, the method further includes: pre-cooling the mixture obtained by the first blending or the second blending.

[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, the amount of insoluble material is 30 to 70 parts by weight; the amount of soluble substrate is 15 to 60 parts by weight; and the amount of functional material is 1 to 35 parts by weight.

[0010] According to embodiments of the present invention, the functional material, the chain extender and the soluble substrate are first blended; and / or, the functional masterbatch, the insoluble material and the chain extender are second blended.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the amount of chain extender used is 5 to 10 parts by weight.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present invention, the soluble substrate includes at least one of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, and polyethylene oxide; the insoluble material includes at least one of plastics, rubber, and fibers; and the functional material includes at least one or a combination of metallic substances, polymeric substances, natural extracts, scale inhibitors, and ionic substances.

[0013] In another aspect, the present invention provides a sustained-release functional unit prepared by the aforementioned method. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sustained-release functional unit includes an insoluble matrix and a soluble functional portion. Thus, the functional material is dispersed in the soluble functional portion, and the functional material can be released into the environment outside the insoluble matrix as the soluble functional portion dissolves in water. Furthermore, since the soluble functional portion has a continuous structure, with the use of the sustained-release functional unit, the functional material on the surface and inside the insoluble matrix can be gradually and completely released, thereby improving the usage time and material utilization rate of the sustained-release functional unit and avoiding waste of functional material.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the width of the soluble functional part is 50 nanometers to 50 micrometers.

[0015] According to embodiments of the present invention, a chain extender is also included, and a chemical bond is formed between the soluble functional part and the insoluble matrix.

[0016] In another aspect, the present invention provides a household appliance, according to an embodiment of the invention, which includes a sustained-release functional unit. Thus, when the household appliance is in operation, the functional material in the soluble functional portion of the sustained-release functional unit can be released into the environment outside the insoluble substrate as the soluble substrate dissolves in water. Furthermore, since the soluble functional portion has a continuous structure, with the use of the sustained-release functional unit, all functional materials on the surface and inside the insoluble substrate can be gradually and completely released, thereby improving the usage time and material utilization rate of the sustained-release functional unit and avoiding waste of functional materials.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the household appliance is a washing machine, a water purifier, a floor scrubber, or a dishwasher. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a method for preparing a sustained-release functional unit in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a sustained-release functional unit in another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will be explained below with reference to embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that the following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention. Where specific techniques or conditions are not specified in the embodiments, they are performed according to the techniques or conditions described in the literature in the field or according to the product instructions. Reagents or instruments whose manufacturers are not specified are all conventional products that can be obtained commercially.

[0022] The present invention will now be described with reference to specific embodiments. It should be noted that these embodiments are merely descriptive and do not limit the present invention in any way.

[0023] In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for preparing a sustained-release functional unit. According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to… Figure 1 Methods for preparing sustained-release functional units include:

[0024] S200: The functional masterbatch and the insoluble material are subjected to a second blending and a second granulation process in sequence to obtain a sustained-release functional unit; wherein, the functional masterbatch is a masterbatch containing functional materials.

[0025] According to embodiments of the present invention, functional materials refer to materials or substances that enable the functions required during the use of household appliances. For example, a water purifier requires a water softening function during use, and the water softening agent (such as phosphates) required to achieve this function is a functional material. Similarly, a washing machine requires a sterilization function during use, and the sterilizing substance (such as silver ions) required to achieve this function is a functional material. The functional material is contained in the masterbatch; it can be that the functional material is encapsulated in the masterbatch, or it can be dispersed and mixed within the masterbatch. The present invention does not limit this, as long as the masterbatch contains the functional material.

[0026] According to embodiments of the present invention, there are no special requirements for the operating temperature of the second blending. Those skilled in the art can flexibly select the appropriate temperature based on the specific type of insoluble material (e.g., insoluble polymer material) and the specific equipment of the extruder (used for blending). In some embodiments, a twin-screw extruder can be used for blending. When using a twin-screw extruder, the operating temperature of the first zone is approximately 50°C, and the operating temperatures of the remaining zones (e.g., the second and third zones) are 160°C to 190°C.

[0027] In some embodiments, the mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment before the second granulation process. As mentioned earlier, the product obtained after blending by an extruder has a high temperature, around 160°C to 190°C, making it difficult to set. Therefore, to facilitate subsequent granulation, the blended product needs to be air-cooled. According to embodiments of the present invention, the mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to the second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C. Thus, the product treated with cold air has better hardness, facilitating cutting and granulation. In some embodiments, the particle size of the sustained-release functional unit is 1 to 5 mm.

[0028] In the above method, functional masterbatch containing functional materials required for the use of household appliances is selected as raw material. The functional masterbatch is blended and granulated with insoluble materials. This method allows the functional masterbatch containing functional materials to form the soluble functional part of the sustained-release functional unit. The functional materials are dispersed in the soluble functional part. In the sustained-release functional unit, the insoluble material can serve as an insoluble framework. The soluble functional part is connected to the outside of the insoluble framework and has a continuous structure. In this way, the functional materials can be released into the environment outside the insoluble framework as the soluble functional part dissolves in water. Moreover, since the soluble functional part has a continuous structure, as the sustained-release functional unit is used, all functional materials on the surface and inside of the insoluble framework can be gradually and completely released, thereby improving the use time of the sustained-release functional unit and the utilization rate of functional materials, and avoiding waste of functional materials.

[0029] In some embodiments, prior to the second blending, the method further includes:

[0030] S100: The functional material and the soluble substrate are sequentially subjected to a first blending and a first granulation process to obtain the functional masterbatch.

[0031] According to embodiments of the present invention, in some implementations, the soluble substrate is pre-dried before the first blending. Pre-drying the soluble substrate removes the water adsorbed by it, thus preventing the soluble substrate from dissolving in water and affecting the stability of the sustained-release functional unit. If the functional material is hygroscopic, the soluble substrate and the functional material can be pre-dried together (of course, if the functional material has poor hygroscopicity, drying the functional material is unnecessary), thereby preventing the water in the functional material from dissolving the soluble substrate and avoiding affecting the efficacy of the functional material and the stability of the sustained-release functional unit. In some embodiments of the present invention, the drying temperature is 50°C to 80°C, such as 50°C, 60°C, 65°C, 70°C, 75°C, or 80°C. Those skilled in the art can select the drying temperature according to the specific material type of the sustained-release functional unit and the functional material, thus ensuring rapid removal of the water adsorbed by the functional material without affecting its performance. In some specific embodiments, the drying time is 4 to 8 hours.

[0032] In some embodiments, the functional material and the sustained-release functional unit may be pre-ground before the first blending to significantly improve the uniformity of the mixture. A binder may also be added during the first blending to help improve the stability of the functional masterbatch, i.e., to improve the stability of the soluble functional portion in the subsequently obtained sustained-release functional unit.

[0033] According to embodiments of the present invention, there are no special requirements for the operating temperature of the first blending. Those skilled in the art can flexibly select the appropriate temperature based on the specific types of functional materials and soluble substrates, as well as the specific equipment of the extruder (used for blending). In some embodiments, a twin-screw extruder can be used for blending. When using a twin-screw extruder, the operating temperature of the first zone of the twin-screw extruder is approximately 50°C, and the operating temperatures of the remaining working zones (such as the second and third zones) are 160°C to 190°C.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, before performing the first granulation process, the mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment. As mentioned above, the product obtained after blending by an extruder has a high temperature, around 160°C to 190°C, making it difficult to set. Therefore, to facilitate subsequent granulation, the blended product needs to be air-cooled. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C. Thus, the product treated with cold air has better hardness, facilitating cutting and granulation.

[0035] In some embodiments, the particle size of the functional masterbatch is 2–5 mm. This size allows for more thorough and uniform mixing with the insoluble material, which is beneficial for the continuous structure of the soluble functional part and reduces the likelihood of agglomeration. If the particle size of the functional masterbatch is less than 2 mm, agglomeration is more likely to occur, which is detrimental to the uniformity of mixing. If the particle size of the functional masterbatch is greater than 5 mm, it is relatively unfavorable to improving the uniformity of the distribution of the soluble functional part in the sustained-release functional unit, affecting the continuity of the soluble functional part.

[0036] According to embodiments of the present invention, the functional material, the chain extender, and the soluble substrate are first blended; and / or, the functional masterbatch, the insoluble material, and the chain extender are second blended. Thus, the addition of the chain extender can, by altering the insoluble material, induce a chemical reaction between the insoluble material and the soluble substrate, thereby reducing the water dissolution rate of the soluble functional portion and controlling the dissolution rate through both physical and chemical means.

[0037] According to embodiments of the present invention, the amount of insoluble material is 30 to 70 parts by weight (e.g., 30 parts by weight, 35 parts by weight, 40 parts by weight, 45 parts by weight, 50 parts by weight, 55 parts by weight, 60 parts by weight, 65 parts by weight, or 70 parts by weight); the amount of soluble base material is 15 to 60 parts by weight (e.g., 15 parts by weight, 20 parts by weight, 25 parts by weight, 30 parts by weight, 35 parts by weight, 40 parts by weight, 45 parts by weight, 50 parts by weight, 55 parts by weight, or 60 parts by weight); and the amount of functional material is 1 to 35 parts by weight (e.g., 1 part by weight, 5 parts by weight, 10 parts by weight, 15 parts by weight, 18 parts by weight, 20 parts by weight, 23 parts by weight, 25 parts by weight, 28 parts by weight, 30 parts by weight, 32 parts by weight, 34 parts by weight, or 35 parts by weight). Therefore, the sustained-release functional unit prepared from the above components has an appropriate amount of soluble substrate and functional material, so that the insoluble framework formed by the insoluble material and the soluble substrate in the sustained-release functional unit have an appropriate volume ratio with the soluble functional part formed by the functional material, ensuring the structural stability of the sustained-release functional unit and the dissolution rate and efficacy of the functional material. If the amount of insoluble substrate is too large, that is, the volume fraction of soluble substrate and the volume fraction of soluble functional part in the sustained-release functional unit are small, this will relatively reduce the service life of the sustained-release functional unit. Moreover, the internal skeleton of the insoluble substrate is relatively compact, which makes it difficult for the soluble functional part inside the sustained-release functional unit to come into contact with water, thus making it difficult to dissolve or the dissolution rate is too slow, weakening the effectiveness of the functional material. Conversely, if the amount of insoluble substrate is too small, that is, the volume fraction of insoluble substrate in the sustained-release functional unit is small, and it contains a relatively large amount of soluble functional part, the stability between the soluble functional part and the insoluble substrate is relatively poor, and the dissolution rate of the soluble functional part is too fast, which easily leads to material waste. The dosage of the aforementioned functional materials and the soluble substrate allows for relatively uniform dispersion of the functional materials within the soluble substrate, resulting in an optimal concentration of the functional materials in the soluble functional portion, thereby ensuring the functional effect of the sustained-release functional unit. Therefore, by controlling the dosage of each component, the dissolution rate of the soluble functional portion can be controlled, satisfying the efficacy requirements of the functional materials in the sustained-release functional unit while avoiding excessively rapid dissolution and material waste. The specific dosage of the functional materials can be set by those skilled in the art between 1 and 35 parts by weight, depending on the specific functional material. For example, the dosage of functional materials containing silver ions can be appropriately reduced.

[0038] In some embodiments, the amount of chain extender that can be added to the insoluble matrix is ​​5 to 10 parts by weight (e.g., 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 parts by weight). Thus, the addition of the chain extender can cause a chemical reaction between the insoluble matrix and the soluble substrate by altering the insoluble matrix, thereby reducing the water dissolution rate of the soluble functional parts and achieving controllability of the dissolution rate through both physical and chemical means.

[0039] In embodiments of the present invention, the soluble substrate and the insoluble framework are chemically bonded together by introducing a reactive chain extender. Specifically, the aforementioned chemical bond is formed during melt blending by adding a chain extender that reacts with both the soluble substrate and the active insoluble framework, thereby initiating a chain extension reaction. If the insoluble framework is a polyester containing hydroxyl or carboxyl groups, the chain extender can be a material containing epoxy groups. The epoxy groups react with the terminal hydroxyl groups of the soluble substrate and the carboxyl or hydroxyl groups of the insoluble framework material, thus linking them together through a chemical bond. This improves the bonding force between the soluble functional part and the insoluble framework, thereby enhancing the stability of the sustained-release functional unit and preventing the soluble functional part from detaching from the insoluble framework, which would affect product quality. Furthermore, it allows control of the dissolution rate of the soluble substrate, thereby controlling the release rate of the functional material in the sustained-release functional unit, and extending the service life of the sustained-release functional unit while ensuring the effective function of the functional material.

[0040] In embodiments of the present invention, the soluble substrate includes at least one of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, and polyethylene oxide. The soluble substrates of the above materials have good solubility, dissolving slowly in flowing water, and do not chemically react with the functional materials in water, thus ensuring the stability of the sustained-release functional unit. Simultaneously, the above materials have good safety, not affecting clothing after dissolving in water. Furthermore, because different soluble substrates have different solubilities in water, the present invention can control the dissolution rate of the soluble functional part by selecting different types of soluble substrates to meet different application requirements and environments of the sustained-release functional unit.

[0041] In some embodiments, the molecular weight of the soluble substrate can be between 50,000 and 3 million. Soluble substrates with these molecular weights have suitable solubility. Furthermore, the dissolution rate of the soluble functional part can be controlled by controlling the molecular weight of the soluble substrate. If the molecular weight of the soluble substrate is less than 50,000, the soluble functional part is difficult to form, and the solvent rate is too fast. If the molecular weight of the soluble substrate is greater than 3 million, the soluble functional part has relatively large limitations, is difficult to process, and is not easy to form a continuous soluble functional part structure.

[0042] In embodiments of the present invention, the insoluble framework includes at least one of plastics (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polylactic acid), rubber, and fibers. The insoluble framework formed from the above materials exhibits good stability and is not easily deformed under the impact of a certain water flow; moreover, it is stable and not easily deteriorated; when containing a chain extender, the insoluble framework and the soluble substrate of the above materials can form chemical bonds through the chain extender, thereby improving the stability of the sustained-release functional unit.

[0043] In embodiments of the present invention, the functional materials include at least one or a combination of metallic substances, polymeric substances, natural extracts, scale inhibitors, and ionic substances. Thus, the slow-release functional unit possesses functions such as water softening, descaling, sterilization, and odor removal. Those skilled in the art can flexibly select suitable functional materials based on the actual conditions of the application environment to meet the application requirements of the slow-release functional unit. Specifically, water softening agents can be reagents such as phosphates, silicates, imine sulfonates, amino acid derivatives, hydroxy acids and their derivatives, polyacrylic acid and its derivatives, etc.; scale inhibitors can be substances such as sodium citrate, sodium polyaspartate, disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, etc.; metallic substances can be substances such as heavy metals (e.g., silver ions, copper ions) and metal compounds (e.g., silver nitrate, copper sulfate), etc.; natural extracts can be substances such as amino acids, lavender oil, tea tree oil, paeonol, etc.; and polymers can be substances such as polyhexamethylene guanidine, amino acid-type polymers, quaternary ammonium salts, polyquaternary ammonium acids, etc. Of course, those skilled in the art can also select other functional materials that can be blended with soluble substrates without failure, depending on the specific application of the sustained-release functional unit.

[0044] In another aspect of the invention, a sustained-release functional unit prepared by the method described above is provided. According to an embodiment of the invention, the sustained-release functional unit includes an insoluble matrix and a soluble functional portion. Thus, the functional material is dispersed in the soluble functional portion, and the functional material can be released into the environment outside the insoluble matrix as the soluble functional portion dissolves in water. Furthermore, since the soluble functional portion has a continuous structure, the functional material on the surface and inside the insoluble matrix can be gradually and completely released as the sustained-release functional unit is used, thereby improving the usage time and material utilization rate of the sustained-release functional unit and avoiding waste of functional material.

[0045] In an embodiment of the present invention, reference is made to Figure 2The width d of the soluble functional part is 50 nanometers to 50 micrometers, for example, d = 50 nanometers, 100 nanometers, 200 nanometers, 500 nanometers, 800 nanometers, 1 micrometer, 5 micrometer, 10 micrometer, 15 micrometer, 20 micrometer, 25 micrometer, 30 micrometer, 35 micrometer, 40 micrometer, 45 micrometer, and 50 micrometer. Therefore, the soluble functional part within the above-mentioned width range allows water molecules to pass through smoothly, and allows the functional material and soluble substrate after dissolution of the soluble functional part to pass through smoothly without clogging. Furthermore, the dissolution rate of the soluble functional part can be controlled by controlling the width of the soluble functional part, which can be achieved by factors such as the amount of insoluble substrate and the process conditions for preparing the sustained-release functional unit. Those skilled in the art will understand that, for example... Figure 1 The width of the soluble functional part at different locations in the sustained-release functional unit is not exactly the same, as long as its width d is within the range of 50 nanometers to 50 micrometers.

[0046] In embodiments of the present invention, the soluble substrate and the insoluble framework are connected by chemical bonds in the prepared sustained-release functional unit. This improves the bonding force between the soluble functional part and the insoluble framework, thereby enhancing the stability of the sustained-release functional unit and preventing the soluble functional part from detaching from the insoluble framework, which would affect product quality. Furthermore, it allows control of the dissolution rate of the soluble substrate, thereby controlling the release rate of the functional material in the sustained-release functional unit, thus extending the service life of the sustained-release functional unit while ensuring the effective function of the functional material.

[0047] In another aspect, the present invention provides a household appliance, which, according to an embodiment of the invention, includes the aforementioned slow-release functional unit. When the household appliance is in operation, the functional materials in the soluble functional portion of the slow-release functional unit can be released into the environment outside the insoluble substrate as the soluble substrate dissolves in water. Furthermore, since the soluble functional portion has a continuous structure, with the use of the slow-release functional unit, all functional materials on the surface and inside the insoluble substrate can be gradually and completely released, thereby improving the usage time and material utilization rate of the slow-release functional unit and avoiding waste of functional materials.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the household appliance is a washing machine, a water purifier, a floor scrubber, or a dishwasher.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the present invention, taking a washing machine as an example of a household appliance, the washing machine includes the aforementioned slow-release functional unit, which is disposed on the water inlet pipe. Thus, during washing, water washes the slow-release functional unit located on the water inlet pipe, allowing the functional materials dispersed in the soluble functional portion to be released into the environment outside the insoluble substrate as the soluble substrate dissolves in the water. Furthermore, since the soluble functional portion has a continuous structure, with the use of the slow-release functional unit, all functional materials on the surface and inside the insoluble substrate can be gradually and completely released, thereby increasing the service life of the slow-release functional unit, improving material utilization, and avoiding waste of functional materials.

[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention, a slow-release functional unit can be disposed in the detergent dispenser of a washing machine. In this way, when water flows through the detergent, it simultaneously washes the slow-release functional unit, causing the soluble functional part to dissolve and the functional material to enter the washing tub with the water flow.

[0051] Example

[0052] Example 1

[0053] Polyethylene oxide (PEO, soluble substrate) and polyhexamethylene guanidine (functional material) were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0054] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were first blended using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: 50°C in zone 1, 150°C in zone 2, 170°C in zone 3, 175°C in zone 4, 175°C in zone 5, 175°C in zone 6, and 160°C in the die. The mixture obtained from the first blending was then subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C.

[0055] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0056] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polyethylene (PE, an insoluble polymer material) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 150℃, Zone 2: 160℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 170℃, Zone 5: 170℃, Zone 6: 170℃, and the die temperature is 160℃.

[0057] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0058] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0059] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, and the amount of functional material is 20 parts by weight.

[0060] Example 2

[0061] The polyethylene oxide (PEO) was dried at 50°C for 4 hours.

[0062] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and silver phosphate (Ag3PO4) were first blended using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: 50℃ in zone 1, 150℃ in zone 2, 170℃ in zone 3, 175℃ in zone 4, 175℃ in zone 5, 175℃ in zone 6, and 160℃ in die temperature.

[0063] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0064] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0065] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polypropylene (PP) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 160℃, Zone 2: 170℃, Zone 3: 180℃, Zone 4: 180℃, Zone 5: 180℃, Zone 6: 180℃, and the die temperature is 170℃.

[0066] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0067] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0068] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 39 parts by weight, and the amount of functional material is 1 part by weight.

[0069] Example 3

[0070] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0071] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were first blended using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: 50°C in zone 1, 150°C in zone 2, 170°C in zone 3, 175°C in zone 4, 175°C in zone 5, 175°C in zone 6, and 160°C in die temperature.

[0072] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0073] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0074] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polypropylene (PP) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 160℃, Zone 2: 170℃, Zone 3: 180℃, Zone 4: 180℃, Zone 5: 180℃, Zone 6: 180℃, and the die temperature is 170℃.

[0075] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0076] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0077] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, and the amount of functional material is 20 parts by weight.

[0078] Example 4

[0079] The polyethylene oxide (PEO) was dried at a temperature of 50°C for 6 hours.

[0080] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and copper sulfate (CuSO4) were first blended using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: 50℃ in zone 1, 150℃ in zone 2, 170℃ in zone 3, 175℃ in zone 4, 175℃ in zone 5, 175℃ in zone 6, and 160℃ in die temperature.

[0081] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0082] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0083] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polypropylene (PP) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 160℃, Zone 2: 170℃, Zone 3: 180℃, Zone 4: 180℃, Zone 5: 180℃, Zone 6: 180℃, and the die temperature is 170℃.

[0084] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0085] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0086] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, and the amount of functional material is 20 parts by weight.

[0087] Example 5

[0088] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0089] Using a twin-screw extruder, polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyhexamethylene guanidine, and chain extender ADR were first blended. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: Zone 1: 50℃, Zone 2: 150℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 175℃, Zone 5: 175℃, Zone 6: 175℃, and the die temperature was 160℃.

[0090] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0091] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0092] The functional masterbatch was second-blended with polylactic acid (PLA) using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: 170℃ in zone 1, 180℃ in zone 2, 180℃ in zone 3, 185℃ in zone 4, 185℃ in zone 5, 180℃ in zone 6, and 170℃ in the die.

[0093] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0094] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0095] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 50 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 30 parts by weight, the amount of functional material is 10 parts by weight, and the amount of chain extender is 10 parts by weight.

[0096] Example 6

[0097] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0098] Using a twin-screw extruder, polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyhexamethylene guanidine, and sodium citrate were first blended. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: Zone 1: 50℃, Zone 2: 150℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 175℃, Zone 5: 175℃, Zone 6: 175℃, and the die temperature was 160℃.

[0099] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0100] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0101] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polyethylene (PE) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 150℃, Zone 2: 160℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 170℃, Zone 5: 170℃, Zone 6: 170℃, and the die temperature is 160℃.

[0102] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0103] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0104] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, the amount of polyhexamethylene guanidine is 10 parts by weight, and the amount of sodium citrate is 10 parts by weight.

[0105] Example 7

[0106] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0107] Using a twin-screw extruder, polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyhexamethylene guanidine, and polyaspartic acid are first blended. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 50℃, Zone 2: 150℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 175℃, Zone 5: 175℃, Zone 6: 175℃, and Die temperature: 160℃.

[0108] The mixture obtained from the first blending is subjected to a first air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0109] The mixture that has undergone the first air cooling treatment is subjected to the first granulation treatment to obtain functional masterbatch with a particle size of 2-5 mm.

[0110] Using a twin-screw extruder, the functional masterbatch is blended with polyethylene (PE) for a second time. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder are: Zone 1: 150℃, Zone 2: 160℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 170℃, Zone 5: 170℃, Zone 6: 170℃, and the die temperature is 160℃.

[0111] The mixture obtained from the second blending is subjected to a second air-cooling treatment to below 50°C;

[0112] The mixture subjected to the second air-cooling treatment is then subjected to a second granulation treatment to obtain a sustained-release functional unit. In the sustained-release functional unit, the width d of the soluble functional part is between 50 nanometers and 50 micrometers.

[0113] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, the amount of polyhexamethylene guanidine is 10 parts by weight, and the amount of polyaspartic acid is 10 parts by weight.

[0114] Comparative Example 1

[0115] Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyhexamethylene guanidine were dried at 50°C for 6 hours.

[0116] Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and polyhexamethylene guanidine were blended using a twin-screw extruder. The operating temperatures of the twin-screw extruder were: Zone 1: 150℃, Zone 2: 160℃, Zone 3: 170℃, Zone 4: 170℃, Zone 5: 170℃, Zone 6: 170℃, and the die temperature was 160℃.

[0117] The mixture obtained from the first blending was air-cooled to below 50°C.

[0118] The mixture, which has undergone air cooling, is then granulated to obtain a functional composite material.

[0119] In the above preparation method, the amount of insoluble polymer material is 60 parts by weight, the amount of soluble substrate is 20 parts by weight, and the amount of functional material is 20 parts by weight.

[0120] Table 1

[0121]

[0122] In this study, 20g each of the sustained-release functional units prepared in Examples 1-7 and the functional composite material prepared in Comparative Example 1 were weighed out. The samples were then symmetrically rinsed with water for a certain period of time at a flow rate of 7L / min. After rinsing, the samples were dried (at 50°C) and weighed. This process of rinsing, drying, and weighing was repeated several times until the release of the functional material became slow and its effect was not obvious. The rinsing time mentioned above refers to the time during which the functional material can function normally. Continuing to rinse further slows the release of the functional material, and the function of the sustained-release functional unit becomes less noticeable. The utilization rate of the functional material = (initial weight of the sustained-release functional unit - weight of the sustained-release functional unit after rinsing and drying) / initial weight of the sustained-release functional unit * 100%.

[0123] As can be seen from Table 1, compared with Comparative Example 1, the sustained-release functional units prepared in Examples 1 to 7 have a longer sustained-release time and a higher utilization rate of functional materials; while in Comparative Example 1, even after continuous rinsing for a long time, the utilization rate of functional materials remains at a low level.

[0124] The terms "first" and "second" used in this document are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature marked "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0125] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0126] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of preparing a slow release functional unit, characterized by, The method comprises: sequentially performing second blending and second granulation on the functional master batch and the insoluble material to obtain the slow-release functional unit; The functional master batch is a master batch containing a functional material. Before the second blending, the method further comprises: sequentially performing first blending and first granulation on the functional material and a soluble base material to obtain the functional master batch; The first blending further comprises: performing first blending on the functional material, a chain extender and the soluble base material; The second blending further comprises: performing the second blending on the functional master batch, the insoluble material and the chain extender; The insoluble material is a polyester containing hydroxyl or carboxyl, and the chain extender is a material containing an epoxy group. The insoluble material is used in an amount of 30-70 parts by weight; The soluble base material is used in an amount of 15-60 parts by weight; and The functional material is used in an amount of 1-35 parts by weight.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before the first blending, the method further comprises: performing a drying treatment on the soluble base material in advance, and the temperature of the drying treatment is 50-80 DEG C.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, Before the first granulation or the second granulation, the method further comprises: performing a cooling treatment on the mixture obtained by the first blending or the second blending in advance.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The chain extender is used in an amount of 5-10 parts by weight.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein, The soluble base material comprises at least one of polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene oxide, and the functional material comprises at least one of a metal substance, a polymer substance, a natural extract substance, a scale inhibitor substance and an ionic substance.

6. A slow release functional unit prepared by the method of any one of claims 1-5, characterized by, Comprise: An insoluble base frame and a soluble functional part.

7. The slow release functional unit according to claim 6, wherein, The width of the soluble functional part is 50 nanometers-50 microns.

8. The slow release functional unit according to claim 6, wherein, A chemical bond is connected between the soluble functional part and the insoluble base frame.

9. A domestic appliance characterized in that, The slow-release functional unit of any one of claims 6-8.

10. The domestic appliance according to claim 9, characterized in that, The household appliance is a washing machine, a water purifier, a floor washing machine or a dish washing machine.

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