Pasteurization of building compositions with high heat and method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed herein are methods of dynamically pasteurizing or sterilizing architectural coating compositions using high heat with or without pressure.

Description

Invention Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to architectural coatings, including, but not limited to, paints and colorants, which have been pasteurized or sterilized by high heat to remove or sufficiently reduce the levels of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and / or other biological agents in the architectural coatings, and to methods for pasteurizing or sterilizing them. The invention also relates to heating architectural coatings to temperatures and durations sufficient for pasteurization and / or sterilization while maintaining the physical and operational properties (including viscosity) of the architectural coatings for coating surfaces of buildings and dwellings. Background of the Invention

[0003] Driven by environmental and health concerns, a movement has emerged to reduce the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in paints, colorants, and other architectural coating compositions that evaporate into the environment after the paint film forms. Paint additives that promote or impart desirable paint properties, such as better film coalescence, better anti-blocking properties, better film durability, better physical and chemical scrub resistance, and tougher coatings, also contain VOCs. The evaporation of VOCs often produces undesirable odors, and exposure to such fumes remains a health concern, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Therefore, low-VOC or non-VOC additives, as well as colorants, that impart comparable (or superior) performance to paints have been used to replace higher-VOC additives. An article in the New York Times entitled “The Promise of Green Paint” discusses the exploration of low-VOC paints or better “green paints” (Kershaw, Sarah, The New York Times, May 15, 2008, p. F6, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0004] However, the reduction of VOCs in paints, colorants, and other architectural coatings, as well as in additives, has resulted in environmentally friendly paints that are more prone to the growth of bacteria, algae, yeasts, fungi, and other biological agents that thrive in aquatic environments. These biological agents grow and die in paint cans and containers, often emitting unpleasant odors and rendering the paint unusable for its intended purpose. They can also cause decreased viscosity, discoloration, outgassing, foaming, sedimentation, and pH changes. Biological agents also pose potential health problems. Some biological agents, such as algae and mold, can grow on dried paint films covering walls or other substrates.

[0005] Biocides are already used in water-based paints or colorants to control biological factors within cans and containers. Some biocides may remain on the dried paint film to control algae and mold. However, it is desirable to minimize biocidal levels in water-based paints / colorants or dried paint / colorant films while preventing the unhindered growth of biological factors.

[0006] Pasteurization of paints and colorants has been attempted. U.S. Patent No. 5,529,749 to Rinno et al. teaches the use of dielectric heating, particularly microwave, to reduce microbial counts in paint compositions and latex dispersions. Rinno also teaches that sterilizing acrylic or vinyl latex dispersions by direct heating to 100°C for 1 minute or 121°C for 1 and 3 minutes in an autoclave results in coagulation or additional crosslinking within the latex dispersion. Direct heating to 80°C for 5 minutes does not cause coagulation, but it also does not sufficiently reduce microbial counts. Initial microbial counts using CSA agar were 1 x 10⁻⁶. 6 CFU / ml, and after direct heating to 80°C and holding for 5 minutes, it only decreased to 1x10. 4 Similarly, the initial microbial count for yeast was 1 x 10⁻⁶ using SDA agar. 5 CFU / ml, reduced only to 1x10 4 Rinno points out that the ideal level of microbes is 1x10⁻⁶. 3 Or less. Rinno did not specify the volume of the sample dispersion heated in the autoclave or the internal temperature of the sample, nor did it disclose the dimensions of the autoclave.

[0007] Rinno also taught that sterilizing paint compositions with gamma rays produces hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals, causing premature cross-linking of polymers in the paint. Rinno concluded that direct heating and gamma rays are unsuitable for the industrial sterilization of paint compositions.

[0008] Rinno prefers to use dielectric heating (i.e., microwaves) to sterilize latex dispersions and paints, supposedly because microwave heating does not cause coagulation or additional cross-linking. Microwave processing can be performed in batches of 10-gram samples in Teflon containers, or in continuous mode with samples pumped into the microwave chamber. Microwave processing can be performed at pressures up to 10 bar to control foaming or bubble formation.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. 10,639,386, jointly owned by Sheerin et al., contradicts Rinno's conclusions. Sheerin experimentally taught that successful pasteurization or sterilization of paint and colorant compositions can occur at significantly lower temperatures, for example, from about 49°C to about 72°C (120°F to 162°F), for at least 120 minutes to at least 2 minutes. Sheerin also experimentally taught that gamma rays can successfully pasteurize paint compositions at less than about 15 kGys without further polymerization or crosslinking of latex polymers in the paint. Bacteria and mold were reduced to less than 1 x 10⁻⁶. 3 Or it may stop growing.

[0010] The following biological factors can be observed in paint:

[0011] i. Bacteria: Species of the genus *Pseudomonas*, including *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*; Gram-negative rod-shaped bacteria; *Enterobacter aerogenes*; *Sphingomonaspaucimobilis*; other Gram-positive and Gram-negative species, etc. ii. Yeasts: *Candida lambica* and *Yarrowia lipolytica*, etc.

[0012] iii. Fungi (molds): Species of the genera *Aspergillus*, *Acremonium*, *Geotrichum*, and *Penicillium*, etc.

[0013] In some of the embodiments or experiments discussed by Sheerin, an inoculum containing the biological factors listed above is introduced into the paint or paint container, and the biological factors are allowed to grow. The paint is then pasteurized by heating or gamma radiation, and the paint is retested to determine the residual concentration of the biological factors (if any) and whether the paint retains its functionality. In other embodiments or experiments, commercially available paint containing biocides that have been defeated by one or more known biological factors is pasteurized and retested to determine whether the contaminated paint can be restored to commercial conditions and is suitable for sale.

[0014] Pseudomonas aeruginosah (or P. aeruginosa) has been found in some contaminated paint. This bacterium is common in humid and warm environments, such as swimming pools and hot tubs. Researchers at the School of Medicine and Public Health reported that Pseudomonas aeruginosa can grow in the range of 25°C to 42°C, but is killed by temperatures of 60°C to a maximum of 70°C for about 30 minutes. At temperatures of 10°C to 15°C or 20°C, Pseudomonas aeruginosa does not grow but does not die. These results were reported by A. Tsuji, Y. Kaneko, K. Takahashi, M. Ogawa and S. Goto, 1982, The Effects of Temperature and pH on the Growth of Eight Enteric and Nine Glucose Non-Fermenting Species of Gram-Negative Rods, Microbiol. Immunol, Vol. 26(1), pp. 15-24, 1982, pp. 15-24 (Toho University School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology) (hereinafter referred to as “Tsuji”), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0015] Tsuji also reported the effects of heat on the following bacteria.

[0016] Table 1.

[0017]

[0018]

[0019] (E. is Escherichia; K. is Klebsiella; S. is Serratia; P. is Pseudomonas; A. is Acinebacter; F. is Flavobacterium)

[0020] =Survival for at least 6 hours; survival tests were conducted at 10-70°C in increments of 10°C.

[0021] 1 = It can survive for about 1 hour at 50°C.

[0022] 2 = It can survive for about 4 hours at 50℃.

[0023] 3 = It can survive for about 2 hours at 50℃.

[0024] =Growth experiments were conducted at 10-50℃, and the growth rates from 10℃ to 50℃ were recorded. 2 Initial concentration of cells / ml, grown to 10 7 Time per cell / ml; observe bacterial growth for 48 hours.

[0025] All bacteria in the tests were eradicated after being kept at 60°C or 70°C for 30 minutes. No bacteria survived for more than 2 hours at 60°C. No bacteria survived for more than 30 minutes at 70°C.

[0026] All the bacteria tested survived at 10°C but did not grow. Otherwise, they grew within the reported temperature range, and peak or optimum growth temperatures were also reported.

[0027] Tsuji also reported that pH values ​​between 6.4 and 8.2 had little effect on the growth rate of these bacteria. However, S. Bricha, K. Ounine S. Oulkheir, NEE El Haloul and B. Attarassi, 1994, Heat Resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Preparations at the Base of Cucumber, Tomato and Lettuce as Affected by pH and Sodium Chloride, ISPROMS ISSN: 1994-5108, WJBR Vol. 3, No. 1, 1-8 (Ibn Tofail University, Morocco) (hereinafter referred to as "Bricha") reported that at a pH of approximately 2, the heat resistance of a strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa decreased at a temperature of 63°C, but the heat resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was roughly the same at pH values ​​of 4.5 and 6. Bricha also reported that at low pH values, 2–6% sodium chloride could protect the bacteria. Bricha is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0028] Yeast cells begin to die at temperatures above 50°C, with most dying between approximately 55°C and 60°C. Bakers know that adding yeast to water that is too hot will kill it, and the dough will not rise. Yeast will not grow at 10°C or lower. Yeast grows in a temperature range of approximately 27°C to approximately 32°C, depending on the species. Therefore, yeast exhibits a dormancy-growth-death temperature profile similar to that of the bacteria discussed above. Thus, yeast can be eradicated and / or controlled through the heating methods described in Sheerin, including storage and transportation.

[0029] Molds (including fungi, molds, and common molds) exist within the same temperature range (and relative humidity) that support human life. Therefore, molds and mold spores are ubiquitous in our environment. Molds can grow at temperatures between 4°C and 38°C (40°F–100°F). Below 4°C, molds are dormant and will revive when the temperature rises and under suitable relative humidity. Some molds tolerate temperatures up to 38°C or higher. Several dormancy-growth-death temperature states for molds and spores have been reported, as shown below. See http: / / www.thermapure.com / environmental-services / mold / .

[0030] Table 2.

[0031] Mold species Lethal temperature (°C) Duration (min) Alternaria 63 25 Aspergillus fumigatus 65 30 Aspergillus niger 63 25 Chaetomium globulus 57 10 Herbaceous Cladosporium 50 10 paper grape spike mold 60 30

[0032] While some of the molds discussed above have lethal temperatures slightly above 60°C, the time required to kill them is much shorter. At 60°C but for a longer duration, most molds can be killed. Therefore, molds can be eradicated and / or controlled using the same heating methods described in Sheerin.

[0033] As Rinno and Sheerin (whom are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety) have taught, the pasteurization or sterilization of paint and colorant compositions by various methods is unpredictable. Detailed analysis and experimentation are necessary to determine the effectiveness of any pasteurization technique. Sheerin teaches that paints and other building compositions can be pasteurized at relatively low heat levels and relatively long holding times. Rinno discourages all forms of heat pasteurization of latex dispersions because coagulation and / or additional cross-linking occur at temperatures of 100°C and 121°C, and microbial residue levels are high at 80°C. However, Rinno's teachings on heat pasteurization are limited to heating a stationary sample of a latex dispersion of unknown size / mass to an unknown internal temperature in an autoclave of unknown size. Rinno's teachings also contradict Sheerin's teachings.

[0034] Therefore, additional sterilization or pasteurization techniques are still required for building compositions such as paints and colorants. Invention Overview

[0036] Therefore, the present invention relates to a method for pasteurizing or sterilizing paint with heat under pressure or no pressure to kill biological factors that may have been introduced into the paint.

[0037] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition, comprising the following steps:

[0038] (i) Providing or optionally preparing the architectural coating composition;

[0039] (ii) Applying heat from a heat source to the architectural coating composition to pasteurize or sterilize it as follows: heating the architectural coating composition to an internal temperature range of at least about 100°C, preferably at least about 121°C or preferably at least about 131°C, and dynamically moving the architectural composition through the heat source for any duration;

[0040] (iii) Store the pasteurized building coating composition in a container.

[0041] Preferably, step (ii) includes a continuous heating process.

[0042] Preferably, the change in one of the Stormer or ICI viscosity measurements from before heating to after heating is less than 10%, and preferably less than about 7.5%, more preferably less than about 5%, and more preferably less than about 2.5%.

[0043] In one embodiment, the duration is about 1 minute or less to about 5 minutes or less. In another embodiment, the duration is about 15 seconds or less, preferably 10 seconds or less, more preferably 5 seconds or less, and even more preferably 2.5 seconds or less. Preferably, the pasteurization or sterilization is a flash process.

[0044] Preferably, the method of the present invention further includes a step of cooling the building composition. The step of cooling the building composition may occur after step (ii) and optionally before step (iii).

[0045] The architectural coating composition preferably flows through a continuous conduit passing through the heat source. Preferably, the continuous conduit includes heat transfer fins.

[0046] Alternatively, step (iii) occurs before step (ii). One embodiment of this alternative embodiment of the invention is a method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building composition, the method comprising the following steps:

[0047] (i) Providing or optionally preparing the architectural coating composition;

[0048] (ii) The pasteurized building coating composition is stored in a container;

[0049] (iii)(a) Applying heat from a heat source of about 100°C or higher to the building coating composition to pasteurize it, and dynamically moving the building composition through the heat source for a minimum time period of about 30 minutes to about 50 minutes;

[0050] or

[0051] (b) Applying heat to the architectural coating composition to pasteurize it as follows: heating the architectural coating composition to an internal temperature range of about 60°C to about 92.5°C and dynamically moving the architectural composition through the heat source for a duration of at least about 50 minutes to at least about 2 minutes.

[0052] Preferably, the method includes a step of cooling the architectural coating composition after heating step (iii)(a) or (iii)(b). Preferably, in heating step (iii)(a) or (iii)(b), a rotary sterilizer-cooler applies heat to the architectural coating composition. Preferably, the internal temperature range in step (iii)(b) can be increased or decreased by any 2.5°C increment between the low and high ends. Preferably, the duration range in step (iii)(b) can be decreased or increased by any 2.5-minute increment between the long and short ends.

[0053] The containers include 10-gallon paint cans or 1-gallon paint cans, as well as other containers, including common paint containers such as 5-gallon, pint, and sample containers.

[0054] Other implementation schemes are described below. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0056] In the accompanying drawings, which form part of and are to be read in conjunction with the specification, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts in the various views:

[0057] Figure 1A (conventional) is a perspective view of a typical rotary sterilizer shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,775,155; Figure 1B (conventional) is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 1A.

[0058] Figure 2A The internal temperature of the paint can is displayed. Figure 2B The display shows the temperature measured by a thermocouple inside a laboratory sterilizer but outside a paint can being processed.

[0059] Figures 3A-C show the flow curves of three commercially available paints in Experiment 1 using a laboratory still, with the paint sample viscosity (Y-axis, Pascal-seconds, or Pa-s) on a log-log scale as a function of the applied shear rate or shear stress (X-axis, seconds). -1 And change.

[0060] Figure 4A -C is the flow curve of three commercially available paints in Experiment 2.

[0061] Figure 5A and 5B This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary sterilization apparatus operating in continuous mode. Although rotary sterilizers are commonly used for in-can sterilization of food products, we investigated their use in in-can pasteurization of construction compositions.

[0062] Figure 6A and 6B The flow curves of commercially available paint in Experiment 3 at 132°C and 140°C are shown.

[0063] Detailed description of the preferred implementation scheme

[0064] Paints or colorants used herein include water-based or water-based paint or colorant compositions and other building compositions that may be pasteurized or sterilized. A paint film refers to a paint or colorant that has been applied to a surface or substrate and has dried or where latex particles in the paint or colorant have aggregated or cross-linked to form a film. Building compositions also include materials understood in the art as building compositions, such as adhesives, caulking agents, bitumen, etc.

[0065] The pasteurization or sterilization techniques of the present invention include dynamic high-temperature heating (hereinafter referred to as "DEH") processes utilizing rotary cooker-coolers (also known as rotary sterilizer-coolers), hold-fill-hold processes, aseptic techniques, and, preferably, continuous sterilization techniques utilizing DEH. These processes and techniques are applicable to all building compositions. The rotary cooker-cooler technique and the hold-fill-hold technique are pasteurization techniques, while the aseptic technique is a sterilization technique. The difference between pasteurization and sterilization lies in the induction temperature. Pasteurization is typically carried out at temperatures up to 100°C to inactivate nutrient microorganisms, while sterilization is carried out at temperatures above 100°C to inactivate spores or spore-forming pathogens.

[0066] As discussed above, water-based latex architectural coatings, such as paints, colorants, and other household and industrial coatings, have become more environmentally friendly. This means that modern architectural coatings have lower VOC content and contain additives and colorants that also have low VOCs. The reduction in VOCs has made architectural coatings more attractive to biological factors, such as bacteria and fungi in the aqueous phase and algae and certain fungi, such as mold, in the dried film phase. One solution is to add biocides to the architectural coatings during the latex formation stage, the pigment dispersion stage (where surfactants, dispersants, and water-dispersed pigments are used), and / or the paint mixing stage (where water-based latex, pigment dispersions, and additives are combined). The paint is then stored and transported in cans and containers. Colorants (which may contain their own biocides) are later added in retail stores to obtain the paint color purchased by the consumer.

[0067] While biocides can be used to protect paints and other architectural coatings and can be applied to dried paint films to help prevent the growth of biological agents, some environmentally conscious consumers have expressed a demand for paints that are biocidal-free or contain reduced amounts of biocides. However, without biocides or with reduced amounts, biological agents can proliferate in water-based paints and colorants or in dried films.

[0068] Experiment 1. Pasteurization using a rotary sterilizer-cooler

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, paints, colorants, and other building compositions can be pasteurized using a DEH process. DEH includes, but is not limited to, a pasteurization process that heats the building composition to an internal temperature of up to, but not exceeding, 100°C. DEH also includes sterilization at temperatures exceeding 100°C and includes both batch and continuous processes. Preferably, the internal temperature is in the range of about 60 to about 80°C. The pasteurization is carried out by heat transfer (including heat conduction, heat convection, and / or heat radiation used in all embodiments / experiments described in this invention) from applied hot air, hot water, or steam (preferably under pressure) to the building composition, while the building composition is moved, stirred, rotated, or otherwise moved in a non-stationary manner within a sealed paint container, or propelled through a continuous conduit.

[0070] Three commercially available paints and one biocide-free experimental paint (inoculated as described below) underwent this heat treatment process. The DEH-treated paints were tested and compared to untreated samples. The paints were stored in standard size 10 containers typically used for storing food, such as canned tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables. These containers are typically 6.25 inches in diameter and 7 inches in height, with a volumetric capacity of approximately 102 to 111 ounces, averaging approximately 109 ounces. Size 10 containers were chosen for this experiment because their volume and dimensions are close to those of paint cans (128 ounces and 6.5 inches in diameter x 7.5 inches in height). The size 10 containers were filled with paint samples, leaving approximately 1 / 2 inch of headroom.

[0071] Canister No. 10, containing paint, was pasteurized in a laboratory pressure sterilizer, a simplified version of a typical rotary sterilizer. The laboratory pressure sterilizer can provide pressurized steam, hot water, or superheated water via an air overpressure process. It can simulate a hot water or saturated steam rotary process. As the machine rotates, the canister rotates about its own axis to induce convective heating and cooling. The laboratory pressure sterilizer was designed for pilot-scale studies of rotary sterilizers. The device is a simplified version of a full-size rotary sterilizer, containing a rotating reel (ring) for holding the sample canister. The sample was heated using steam and cooled using well water or tap water.

[0072] An example of a typical full-size rotary sterilizer is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,775,155 (and originally assigned to H.G. M. Lenaar & Co.) entitled “Rotary Cooker for Use with Chamfered, Stackable Cans” by A.S. Van Rooyen and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0132502 entitled “Can Transfer System” by TL. Thring et al. These references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Figures 1A and 1B (they are from U.S. Patent No. 7,775,155) show a typical rotary sterilizer-cooler 10 with two parallel, elongated chambers 11 and 12. The chambers may have a length of ten meters or more and a diameter on the order of two meters or more. The array of helical tracks 30 guides and supports the cans 50 as they are transferred from left to right around a horizontal axis XX in Figure 1A. The cans 50 are advanced along the helical tracks 30 by supports 70, as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,775,155. The first chamber 11 is typically heated and used to cook or sterilize the cans 50 passing through it. The second chamber 12 typically cools the cans 50 as they move in the opposite direction. The rotary sterilizer-cooler 10 is sized and designed to receive cans number 10. The cans tip over as they are conveyed through the rotary sterilizer-cooler 10. Therefore, as the cans translate through the rotary sterilizer-cooler 10, the paint inside them dynamically rotates within the cans.

[0073] Thermocouples were inserted through the lids into cans containing three commercially available paint samples for this experiment. Several thermocouples were also placed inside and outside the cans in a laboratory pressure sterilizer to measure the temperature of the heat applied to the cans. As discussed above, Tsuji teaches that no bacteria survive for more than 30 minutes at 70°C. In this experiment, the temperature of the laboratory pressure sterilizer was set to approximately 100°C (212°F), and the target internal temperature inside the can was chosen to be approximately 75°C (167°F). It should be noted that, as Sheerin and Tsuji teach, the target temperature can be set higher or lower.

[0074] Figure 2B The temperature is shown by a thermocouple measuring inside the sterilizer-cooler but outside the can. The can is heated to 100°C in the sterilizer-cooler for approximately 50 minutes and then transferred to the cooling section, as indicated by the temperature drop starting from the approximately 50-minute mark. Figure 2AThe internal temperature of the paint can, measured by an internal thermocouple, is shown, gradually increasing until the cooling phase and then decreasing. The data indicate that for Product #1 (a stain-resistant white primer), the duration at or above the target pasteurization temperature is 17.5 minutes (marked from 45.50 minutes to 63 minutes). For Product #2 (a single-base premium interior matte paint with the highest level of TiO2 opaque pigment), the duration at or above the target pasteurization temperature is 21 minutes (marked from 42.25 minutes to 66.25 minutes). For Product #3 (a four-base premium interior semi-gloss paint with the lowest level of opaque pigment and the highest level of latex resin), the duration at or above the target pasteurization temperature is 32 minutes (marked from 41.50 minutes to 73.5 minutes). The significantly longer duration at or above the target temperature for Product #3 is likely due to the small amount of opaque pigment (TiO2) contained in the four-base paint. For Commodity #2, which has the highest level of opaque pigment, the highest internal paint temperature was recorded at 195.78°F (91°C) at time markers of 58:45 and 59:15. Since the viscosity of Commodity #2 paint remains at acceptable levels at different shear rates, as shown below, Commodity #2 and similar paints and their latex adhesives can withstand pasteurization temperatures up to 91°C and higher.

[0075] In Experiment 1, the heating phase was extended to approximately 50 minutes. Data in Appendix 1 indicate that the 60°C pasteurization temperature was reached in approximately 30 minutes for products #1 and #3, and in 38 minutes for product #2. Therefore, the heating phase in this experiment can be shortened to approximately 30 minutes. It should be noted that for smaller tanks and for continuous processes involving pipeline transport of paint, the heating time to achieve the target internal pasteurization can be significantly reduced to the order of less than 1 minute to approximately 2 minutes, as discussed below.

[0076] Table 3 below shows the duration and temperature experienced by paints #1, #2 and #3 in Example 1.

[0077] Table 3.

[0078]

[0079]

[0080] *Temperature not reached

[0081] Lower internal pasteurization temperatures will require longer pasteurization times, and higher internal pasteurization temperatures will require shorter pasteurization times. The durations shown in Table 3 for lower internal pasteurization temperatures will include the durations spent at higher internal pasteurization temperatures. In other words, for example, durations at 65°C or higher will include the times spent at 70°C, 75°C, etc.

[0082] Preferably, the internal pasteurization temperature range is from about 60°C to 92.5°C, and the range can be increased or decreased by any increment of 2.5°C from the lower end to the higher end. Any increment can serve as either the lower or higher end of the internal pasteurization temperature range. The minimum suitable pasteurization duration range is from about 50 minutes at the lower end of the internal pasteurization temperature range to 2 minutes at the higher end, and can be decreased or increased from longer to shorter times in increments of 2.5 minutes. Any increment can serve as either the lower or higher end of the duration range. It should be noted that these durations are the shortest times to maintain the target internal pasteurization temperature. As taught by Sheerin et al. and discussed in the application history of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the duration can be extended beyond the minimum duration as long as the paint is not negatively affected, such as by viscosity changes exceeding the acceptable range discussed herein. For completeness, preferably, the maximum suitable pasteurization duration range is from about 360 minutes at the lower end of the internal pasteurization temperature range to 15 minutes at the higher end, and can be decreased from longer to shorter times in increments of 5 minutes. Any incremental value can serve as the low or high end of that duration range.

[0083] The cans containing the experimental paint with the inoculation described below were also treated with the DEH process along with three commercially available paints. Another can containing the same experimental paint with the inoculation was left untreated as a control.

[0084] It should be noted that, as taught in the jointly owned Sheerin patent and Tsuji paper, the internal pasteurization temperature can be set at a lower temperature, such as 70°C or 60°C or any temperature in between, or at a higher temperature. The temperature data for Experiment 1 are attached in the appendix.

[0085] A relevant indicator for evaluating paints, colorants, and other building compositions treated with DEH or other heat treatments or other pasteurization processes is whether the viscosity of the composition changes significantly at a certain shear rate. Preferably, the change in viscosity measurement from before heating (or without heating) to after heat treatment can be up to 10%, and preferably less than about 7.5%, more preferably less than about 5%, and more preferably less than about 2.5%. In other words, the change in at least one of the Stormer viscosity or ICI viscosity measured at different shear rates should be within these preferred ranges. Preferably, the viscosity measurements are averaged; alternatively, the viscosity after heat treatment is within the viscosity range allowed by the paint specifications. The static viscosity (in-can viscosity) of these commercially available paint samples and treated samples is measured as shown in Table 3 below.

[0086] Table 4.

[0087]

[0088] The measured ICI viscosity values ​​are from Table 7 above.

[0089] § Primer specifications typically do not include the ICI viscosity range.

[0090] Within the viscosity range allowed by specifications.

[0091] As shown, the Stormer and ICI viscosities of the DEH-treated samples are close to the viscosity in the paint specifications or the batch / measured viscosity, indicating that DEH treatment does not significantly affect the viscosity of the paint. Therefore, it can be inferred that DEH treatment does not significantly affect the colloidal stability of commercially available paints. When the treated commercially available paints were filtered after treatment, very small amounts of skin (on the order of 1 gram) of products 1 and 3 remained on the fine filter.

[0092] The flow curves were plotted on a log-log scale of the viscosity (Y-axis, Pascal-seconds) of the paint sample, as represented by the applied shear rate or shear stress (X-axis, seconds). -1Viscosity is a function of the composition's resistance to flow. Shear rate is the change in strain over time. The viscosity of the samples was measured at different shear rates (rotation speed) (horizontal axis) (vertical axis). Low rotation speeds mimic the stage when the paint is in essentially static conditions. At this stage, high viscosity is desirable, indicating low color flow and low color separation. High rotation speeds mimic the stage when a user applies the paint to a surface, e.g., moving a paintbrush or roller. At this stage, low viscosity is desirable, indicating easier application. Figures 3A-C show that at higher rotation speeds, the flow profiles for all three paint samples are substantially the same between the treated and untreated control samples (which is desirable), and close to each other at lower rotation speeds. Therefore, the acceptable range of variation in ICI and Stormer viscosity between the treated and untreated paints is sufficient to ensure substantially similar physical and operational properties of the architectural coatings, as shown in the flow profiles of Figures 3A-C.

[0093] Sheerin et al. discussed typical microbial species used in inoculation. The microbial species used in this experiment included the following:

[0094] Table 5.

[0095]

[0096]

[0097] Tables 6(a)-(b) show the bioactivity results of DEH-treated, inoculated experimental paint samples relative to untreated control experimental paint samples. Aerobic plate count (APC) is an indicator of the number of bacteria on a sample and is measured in "cfu / g", which represents colony-forming units per gram of sample. APC assumes that each cell forms a visible colony when mixed with agar containing appropriate nutrients. It is a universal test for organisms that grow aerobically or require oxygen at moderate or moderate temperatures (25–40°C or 77–104°F).

[0098] The APC results in the table below were obtained undiluted. Spread 1.0 ml of the resulting mixture onto two plates. Pour Trypticase soy agar (TSA) into one plate and Sabdextrose agar (SAB) into the other. TSA will grow bacteria, while SAB will grow yeast and mold, although some Gram-negative bacteria may also grow on SAB agar.

[0099] Count the colonies that grow on the plate.

[0100] Table 6(a).

[0101]

[0102] Table 6(b).

[0103]

[0104] The initial bacterial levels were 1,500 CFU / g (Gram-positive bacteria) and 600 CFU / g (Gram-negative bacteria), totaling 2,100 CFU / g. The residual levels after treatment were 30 CFU / g (Gram-positive bacteria) and below the detection level (Gram-negative bacteria).

[0105] Typically, initial growth in control samples is at 10 5 (Level 3) to 10 6 (Level 4) range, as reported by Rinno and Sheerin. In this experiment, initial growth was at 10... 3 (Level 2). The performance of three commercially available and experimental paints is listed below. All percentages are based on weight.

[0106] Table 7.

[0107]

[0108] The experimental paint contained more non-exempt solvents than commercially available paints. Solvents were removed or significantly reduced prior to the commercialization of the coating. These solvents may have originated from one or more additives or colorants discussed above. As discussed above, solvents are historically known to be detrimental to microorganisms. The inoculated experimental paint was also stored for several days prior to Experiment 1, which further reduced the level of biological factors. Except for solvent levels, the experimental paint was similar to commercially available paint #3 (a 4-base paint). If the solvent levels were matched to those of the commercially available paint, the initial level of biological factors was expected to reach the levels reported by Rinno and Sheerin. It was also expected that the heat applied in Experiment 1 (which generated an internal paint temperature higher than that reported by Sheerin) would reduce the microbial count to levels indicated by Sheerin or higher.

[0109] APC does not accurately indicate the type of bacteria present; it is a quantitative assay. This is why an enrichment assay, a qualitative one, is used; 10 grams of product are added to a container containing 90 mL of Letheen broth and the mixture is incubated for 48 hours. Next, identification media are used, each indicating a specific bacterium by changing the color of the medium or the color of the growth on it. The media used are specific for *Escherichia coli*, *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, and *Salmonella* spp. One drop of broth is looped into each medium.

[0110] Analysis showed that the reduction was 30 cfu / 2100 cfu or a 2-log reduction. Preferably, the eradication was a reduction of at least 2-log (99.0%), more preferably 3-log (99.9%), 4-log (99.99%), and even more preferably 5-log (99.999%) or more. Because the temperature of the fluids (including gases and liquids) used in this experiment was higher than that used by Sheerin et al., the temperature applied in Experiment 1 would reduce the total microbial count from 10... 6 The initial total number of levels is reduced to 5-log reduction or more.

[0111] Therefore, the above experiments show that (i) paint and colorant compositions, as well as other building compositions, can be treated and maintain their functionality using rotary sterilizer pasteurization technology with dynamic high heat (DEH) process, and (ii) rotary sterilizer pasteurization can reduce bacterial counts in paint and colorant compositions.

[0112] Experiment 1 can be summarized as a preferred method for pasteurizing architectural coating compositions, which includes the following steps:

[0113] Provide or optionally prepare the architectural coating composition;

[0114] The pasteurized building coating composition is stored in a container;

[0115] (a) Applying heat from a heat source of about 100°C or higher to the building coating composition to pasteurize it, and dynamically moving the building composition through the heat source for a minimum time period of about 30 minutes to about 50 minutes;

[0116] or

[0117] (b) Applying heat to the architectural coating composition to pasteurize it as follows: heating the architectural coating composition to an internal temperature range of about 60°C to about 92.5°C, and dynamically moving the architectural composition through the heat source for a duration of at least about 50 minutes to at least about 2 minutes;

[0118] The method may further include a step of cooling the architectural coating composition after the heating step. Preferably, in the heating step, a rotary sterilizer-cooler applies heat to the architectural coating composition.

[0119] The temperatures achieved inside commercially available paints 1, 2, and 3 are within the range of rapid pasteurization known in the field of food pasteurization. As taught by the International Dairy Association (www.idfa.org / pasteurization), the temperature and duration (which can be less than 1 second) are as follows:

[0120] temperature time Pasteurization type 63℃(145°F) 30 minutes Barrel pasteurization 72℃(161°F) 15 seconds High-temperature short-time pasteurization (HTST) 89℃(191°F) 1 second Higher heat and shorter time (HHST) 90℃(194°F) 0.5 seconds HHST 94℃(201°F) 0.1 seconds HHST 96℃(204°F) 0.05 seconds HHST 100℃(212°F) 0.01 seconds HHST 138℃(280°F) 2 seconds Ultra-pasteurization (UP)

[0121] Since the internal temperature of all paints reached 75°C in Experiment 1, the pasteurization in Experiment 1 was at least HTST rapid pasteurization, and within the HHST rapid pasteurization range. The paints tested in Experiment 1 maintained these rapid pasteurization temperatures for a much longer period.

[0122] Therefore, Experiment 1 can be restated as a preferred method for pasteurizing architectural coating compositions, comprising the following steps:

[0123] Provide or optionally prepare the architectural coating composition;

[0124] The pasteurized building coating composition is stored in a container;

[0125] (a) Applying heat from a heat source of about 100°C or higher to the building coating composition to pasteurize it, and dynamically moving the building composition through the heat source at any time;

[0126] or

[0127] (b) Applying heat to the architectural coating composition to pasteurize it as follows: heating the architectural coating composition to an internal temperature range of approximately 60°C to approximately 92.5°C, and dynamically moving the architectural composition through the heat source for any period of time;

[0128] The change in Stormer viscosity or ICI viscosity from untreated to heat-treated is less than about 10%, preferably less than about 7.5%, more preferably less than about 5%, and more preferably less than about 2.5%.

[0129] The duration may be about 15 seconds or less, preferably 10 seconds or less, more preferably 5 seconds or less, and even more preferably 2.5 seconds or less.

[0130] Experiment 2. Aseptic and Heat-Filled Retention (HFH) Process

[0131] In this experiment, the paint was heated to a high temperature for a short period and then removed from the heat. Paint samples were heated to 250°F (121°C) with saturated steam in a 1-quart still or pressure cooker for approximately 5 minutes, and then to 268°F (131°C) for approximately 1 minute (representing aseptic treatment). Another set of identical paint samples was boiled in a water bath to 212°F (100°C) for 30 minutes (representing HFH treatment, which can be considered an alternative to pasteurization). All treated paints were accompanied by an unheated control. All stills used for testing aseptic conditions were fluidly connected to a shared steam buffer tank so that all stills received steam at the same temperature. The duration of exposure was regulated by inlet and outlet valves on the stills.

[0132] Approximately 15-20g of each of the three commercially available paints were sealed in a Thermal Dead Time (TDT) canister. TDT canisters are small and typically have a diameter of approximately 2.5 inches and a height of approximately 0.375 inches, allowing heat to penetrate the interior of the TDT canister quickly. The maximum holding capacity of a TDT canister is approximately 21 grams. The small volume and small mass of the test paints were chosen in part so that the internal temperature of the TDT canister would reach the temperature of the fluid applied to the outside of the TDT canister more quickly. This simulates the temperature conditions in a continuous pasteurization or sterilization process.

[0133] The internal temperature of a TDT canister immersed in boiling water for 30 minutes will reach 100°C. It is also believed that, due to the thinness of the TDT canister, heating it in a boiling still for 5 minutes or 1 minute will achieve the target pasteurization temperature, such as 75°C (167°F) or the temperature taught in the literature discussed above. Heating a TDT canister for 5 minutes will achieve an applied temperature of 250°F (121°C).

[0134] The treated samples were visually inspected, and flow profiles were prepared for both the treated samples and the control. Additionally, a 2-mil drawdown was prepared for each sample on a Leneta plot, and the ICI viscosity was measured. The ICI viscosity measurements (showing only minor changes compared to the control sample) and the drawdown results indicated that the commercially available paint maintained its functionality.

[0135] Table 8.

[0136]

[0137] a Traces of the skin / solid.

[0138] b Some TiO2 reacts with the lining material on the TDT tank.

[0139] Figure 4A-C shows that the flow profiles of all three paint samples were essentially identical between the treated and untreated control samples. The results indicate that paints and colorants can be heat-treated at temperatures around 100°C and above without loss of physical properties, such as rheological properties and performance. Commercially available paint 3 exhibited an ICI viscosity change close to the upper limit of 10% at 121°C, but still functioned as expected. Figure 4C As shown in the image.

[0140] Scraping samples also showed that the treated commercially available paint could satisfactorily form a solid film on the substrate, which is the primary function of paint and colorant. The trace skin / solid formation observed in Experiments 1 and 2 did not negatively affect the ability of the treated paint to cover the substrate. A significant amount of skin typically forms on open trays containing paint, brushes / rollers, and on opened paint cans.

[0141] In some cases, a skin can form inside an unopened paint can, for example, on top of or on the lid of water-based paint. At higher storage temperatures, the airspace inside the paint can heats up faster than the water-based paint due to the lower heat capacity of air. This creates a temperature gradient or difference, and water is driven away or evaporated on or near the top of or lid of the water-based paint, resulting in a trace amount of skin.

[0142] Regarding the reaction of TiO2 with the lining, TDT cans (similar to cans used for food storage) are typically lined with polymer materials to prevent food oxidation or other reactions with the can. Common lining materials include BPA-based epoxy coatings (bisphenol A + epichlorohydrin → bisphenol A-diglycidyl ether epoxy resin), epoxy amines, oleoresin-based materials, vinyl (vinyl chloride and vinyl acetate), phenolic resins (phenol + aldehyde), acrylics, polyesters (isophthalic acid (IPA) and terephthalic acid (TPA)), etc. Commercially available paint cans do not have such linings, and TiO2 is known not to react with paint cans. Therefore, this problem is not expected to occur with commercially available paint cans.

[0143] The data in Table 8 comes from... Figures 4A-4C The flow profiles and the applied high and high internal temperatures indicate that paints, colorants, and other building compositions can be heated to 100°C (212°F), 121°C (250°F), or 131°C (268°F) and higher for short durations while maintaining their colloidal stability and rheological properties such as viscosity. These findings are unexpected and contradict Rinno's teachings. The physical and operational properties of latex binders in paints, colorants, and other building compositions are preserved.

[0144] Experiment 2 shows that commercially available paints 1, 2, and 3 can be heated to temperatures up to 131°C without loss of their physical and operational properties. Therefore, architectural coatings such as paints and colorants can be rapidly pasteurized or rapidly sterilized according to HTST, HHST, or UP protocols.

[0145] Batch processing and continuous processing

[0146] Paints, colorants, and other building compositions can be pasteurized in batches, wherein the paints and colorants stored in containers can be heat-treated in batches, as described in Experiments 1 and 2. In another preferred embodiment, the building compositions can be heat-treated in a continuous manner, for example, by online heating, and then aseptically filled into soft or rigid, flexible, or metal containers sold to consumers.

[0147] The building composition can flow through the interior of a conduit (preferably a serpentine conduit) by gravity or pump pressure, where heat is applied to the exterior of the conduit. The applied heat can be dry air heat, steam, hot water, or other liquids. Preferably, heating fins with a high heat transfer coefficient are attached to the exterior of the conduit to facilitate heat transfer between the heated air / liquid and the building composition within the conduit. Reference Figure 5A and 5B A continuous sterilization system is shown. The sterilization system 100 is connected to a tank 102 containing paint, colorant, or other building composition to be pasteurized. A pipe 104, preferably connected near the bottom of the tank 102, connects the tank 102 to a sterilization chamber 106. Preferably, a pump 108 and a valve 110 are mounted on the pipe 104 to deliver the composition to be sterilized and to cut off the flow, respectively. A first heat exchanger 112 is located within the sterilization chamber 106. Figure 5AIn one embodiment, conduit 104 is fluidly connected to a first heat exchanger 112, allowing the composition to be sterilized to flow within the heat exchanger. Optionally, fins 114 may be disposed on the outside of the serpentine tube 116 to improve heat transfer. A heating fluid circulates within a sterilization chamber 106 outside the first heat exchanger 112 to heat the composition flowing inside the first heat exchanger 112. The sterilization chamber 106 preferably also has a heater 118 to heat the heating fluid to replace the heat transferred to the composition for sterilization. The heater 118 may have a chamber 120 for receiving the heating fluid. The chamber 120 may be heated by a burner 122, preferably an electric burner / blanket burner or a combustion burner. Preferably, the sterilization chamber 106 is fluidly connected to the heater 118 via conduit 124, and the flow of the heating fluid is controlled using one or more valves 126 and 128. The heating fluid may be pressurized steam to provide a heating temperature above 100°C, or water or other liquids to provide a heating temperature up to 100°C. If water or another heated liquid is used, an optional pump 130 is provided, along with an optional refill valve and inlet 132 to add water or another heated liquid into chamber 120.

[0148] The volumetric flow rate and duration of the composition to be sterilized within sterilization chamber 106 are calculated to ensure that the composition reaches and is maintained at or above the target pasteurization temperature as taught above. After the sterilized composition leaves sterilization chamber 106, it may optionally enter cooling zone 140, which includes a second heat exchanger 142 similar to the first heat exchanger 112. A fan 144 is provided to force air through the second heat exchanger 142 for cooling by thermal convection. Alternatively, a pump may provide cooling water. Preferably, a valve 134 is provided between sterilization chamber 106 and cooling zone 140. If sterilization is selected by aseptic technique (similar to the technique in Example 2), cooling zone 140 may be omitted.

[0149] exist Figure 5B An alternative implementation is shown. This implementation is similar to... Figure 5B In the embodiment shown, however, the composition to be sterilized flows into a sterilization chamber 106 outside the first heat exchanger 112. A heating fluid flows through the heat exchanger 112 to heat the composition to be sterilized. One or more mixers 146 are provided within the sterilization chamber 146 to dynamically mix the composition to enhance heat transfer.

[0150] Suitable heat exchangers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,395,121, 10,126,014, and 9,568,212, among others. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger may be analogous to a radiator in a car or truck. The dimensions and size of the pipe should be sufficient to deliver paint, colorant, and other architectural coatings at the desired volumetric rate. Internal flow weirs or blades may be placed within the pipe to promote flow circulation. Furthermore, internal turbulence inducers (e.g., blocks or protrusions) may be placed on the inner wall of the pipe to promote turbulence, which provides more mixing than laminar flow.

[0151] The pasteurization process used in Example 1 is similar to the continuous processing system in that the paint / colorant cans can be rotatably and translationally moved through the system, similar to the case of pumping paint / colorant through pipelines.

[0152] Depending on the pasteurization temperature, one advantage of a continuous pasteurization or sterilization system is that it can influence the pasteurization process (as discussed in Experiment 1) or the HFH process in Experiment 2. Additionally, aseptic processes as discussed in Example 2 are possible, with higher heat and less exposure time, and no holding step after the heat step. Another advantage is that there should be no headspace or air space in the piping with flowing paint and colorant, which minimizes skin formation. Another advantage is that if any skin or solids form during the sterilization process, they can be filtered out before the building composition is placed in paint cans or drums for sale.

[0153] The results from Experiments 1 and 2 can guide the continuous sterilization and / or pasteurization processes shown in the implementation plan, such as Figure 5A and 5B Experiment 1 showed that dynamic high-temperature heating during treatment, including temperatures up to 100°C and internal pasteurization temperatures up to 91°C, as well as mixing paints or colorants, did not significantly affect the colloidal stability and other properties of the treated paints and colorants, as indicated by the slight change in viscosity after DEH treatment. Experiment 2 further expanded the scope of knowledge by confirming that heating paints, colorants, and other building compositions to temperatures above approximately 100°C, above approximately 121°C, or about 131°C for short periods (such as less than 5 minutes or less than 1 minute) did not negatively affect the colloidal stability or other properties of the treated paints and colorants, as indicated by the slight change in viscosity after treatment.

[0154] This means that continuous sterilization and / or pasteurization DEH processes can be designed such that the paints, colorants, and other building compositions being treated can be processed to internal temperatures above about 100°C, about 121°C, or about 131°C within a short time (e.g., less than 5 minutes to less than 1 minute) to optimize the sterilization and / or pasteurization process. The volumetric flow rate of the building composition and the level / amount of heat flux applied to the composition being treated can be calculated based on known principles of heat transfer to achieve the desired duration of DEH treatment of the composition.

[0155] Experiment 3. Pasteurization / sterilization using a continuous process

[0156] Product #3 paint was successfully sterilized by heating at 132°C (270°F) with an overall average residence time of 15 seconds. Product #3 was also successfully sterilized twice by heating at 140°C (285°F) with an overall average residence time of 15 seconds. The paint was preheated to 85°C (185°F) before being heated to the sterilization temperature. The paint was then cooled, and the treated samples were collected. (The heating temperatures of 131°C in Experiment 2 and 132°C in Experiment 3 are considered to be substantially the same.)

[0157] The coated samples of Product #3 treated at 132℃ and 140℃ were compared with those of the untreated Product #3 to determine if they formed films in a similar manner. The viscosity and pH of the treated and untreated paints were compared as shown below. Multiple viscosity values ​​of the treated and untreated paints were measured and averaged in the table below.

[0158] Table 9. Product #3

[0159]

[0160] The flow curves of treated and untreated product #3 in Experiment 3 (e.g.) Figure 6A and 6B As shown, the dynamic viscosity does not change significantly. The change in Stormer or ICI viscosity is in the range of about 10%, preferably in the range of 7.5%, more preferably in the range of 5%, and more preferably in the range of 2.5%, as discussed above. It should be noted that the 2.6% and 2.3% changes in viscosity are within the range of about 2.5%, and the 5.2% change is within the range of about 5%.

[0161] Commercial paint #2 was also tested at 132°C. Commercial paint #2 was pumped through an 85°C preheater; however, due to blockage of the main heater, the experimental equipment used in Experiment 3 could not process commercial paint #2. Experiment 2, discussed above, showed that commercial paint #2 was successfully heated to 131°C and maintained for an extended period without forming a skin. Therefore, the inventors believe that commercial paints #1 and #2, with a higher pigment content than commercial paint #3, can be pasteurized and / or sterilized at the temperatures used in Experiment 3 using redesigned commercial equipment, including the pump, the type of pump (e.g., centrifugal versus piston), the diameter of the pipes / tubes, and the number and shape of bends in the pipes.

[0162] Storage of paints, colorants and other building compositions

[0163] Preferably, the paint storage in step (iii) involves storing the paint container in an environment where bacteria (if present) do not grow. As discussed above, a large number of bacteria do not grow at 10°C. Furthermore, the growth temperature range for these bacteria is above 15°C, and very few bacteria will grow at 20°C. Therefore, preferably, the paint is stored at 20°C (68°F) or lower, more preferably at 15°C (59°F) or lower, or even more preferably at 10°C (50°F) or lower. These preferred storage temperatures can be achieved using conventional air conditioning techniques. Additionally, it is preferable that the paint is also maintained within these temperature ranges during transportation.

[0164] While the exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein clearly achieve the above objectives, it should be understood that numerous modifications and other embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0165] appendix

[0166] (All temperatures are in Fahrenheit - °F)

[0167]

[0168]

[0169]

[0170]

[0171]

[0172]

[0173]

[0174]

[0175]

[0176]

[0177]

[0178]

[0179]

[0180]

Claims

1. A method for pasteurizing or sterilizing architectural coating compositions, comprising the following steps: (i) Providing or optionally preparing the architectural coating composition; (ii) By heating the architectural coating composition to an internal temperature range of 100°C to 131°C, applying heat from a heat source to the architectural coating composition through heat transfer including heat conduction, heat convection and / or heat radiation to pasteurize or sterilize it, and dynamically moving the architectural coating composition through the heat source for any duration within the internal temperature range; (iii) Store the architectural coating composition in a container.

2. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing the architectural coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the change in one of the Stormer or ICI viscosity measurements from before heating to after heating is less than 10%.

3. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the duration is 1 minute or less to 5 minutes or less.

4. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 1, wherein the duration is 15 seconds or less.

5. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 4, wherein the duration is 10 seconds or less.

6. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 5, wherein the duration is 5 seconds or less.

7. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 6, wherein the duration is 2.5 seconds or less.

8. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 1, wherein step (ii) includes a continuous heating process.

9. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing an architectural coating composition according to claim 1, the method further comprising a step of cooling the architectural coating composition, which occurs after step (ii) and optionally before step (iii).

10. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 8, wherein the building coating composition flows through a continuous conduit through the heat source.

11. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 10, wherein the continuous conduit comprises heat transfer fins.

12. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 1, wherein step (iii) occurs before step (ii).

13. A method for pasteurizing architectural coating compositions, comprising the following steps: (i) Providing or optionally preparing the architectural coating composition; (ii) Store the pasteurized building coating composition in a container; (iii) Pasteurizing the architectural coating composition by heating it to an internal temperature range of 60°C to 92.5°C, applying heat from a heat source to the architectural coating composition through heat transfer including heat conduction, heat convection and / or heat radiation, and dynamically moving the architectural coating composition through the heat source for a pasteurization duration range of at least 50 minutes to at least 2 minutes.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the architectural coating composition is heated to an internal temperature range of 75°C to 92.5°C and dynamically moved through the heat source for a pasteurization duration of at least 32 minutes to at least 2 minutes.

15. The method of claim 13 or 14, further comprising the step of cooling the architectural coating composition after the heat application step (iii).

16. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein in the heat application step, a rotary sterilizer-cooler applies heat to the architectural coating composition.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the internal temperature range in step (iii) increases or decreases by one or more increments of 2.5°C between 60°C and 92.5°C.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the internal temperature range in step (iii) increases or decreases by one or more increments of 2.5°C between 75°C and 92.5°C.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein the duration in step (iii) ranges from at least 50 minutes to at least 2 minutes, decreasing or increasing by one or more increments of 2.5 minutes.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein the duration in step (iii) ranges from at least 32 minutes to at least 2 minutes, decreasing or increasing by one or more increments of 2.5 minutes.

21. A method for pasteurizing or sterilizing architectural coating compositions, comprising the following steps: (i) Providing or preparing the architectural coating composition; and (ii) Pasteurizing the architectural coating composition by heating it to an internal temperature range of 60°C to 92.5°C, applying heat from a heat source to the architectural coating composition through heat transfer including heat conduction, heat convection and / or heat radiation, and dynamically moving the architectural coating composition through the heat source for any duration; The change in Stormer viscosity or ICI viscosity from untreated to heat-treated is less than 10%; The duration within the internal temperature range is 15 seconds or less.

22. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 21, further comprising the step (iii) of storing the building coating composition in a container.

23. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 21, wherein the duration is 10 seconds or less.

24. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 23, wherein the duration is 5 seconds or less.

25. The method for pasteurizing or sterilizing a building coating composition according to claim 24, wherein the duration is 2.5 seconds or less.

Images