Microencapsulated fiber
Microencapsulated fibers with phase-change and functional microcapsules address the limitations of conventional fibers by providing temperature regulation, anti-mite, anti-fungal, and anti-allergy properties, improving comfort and durability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2025003558U
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-08-21
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-11
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-10-16
AI Technical Summary
Conventional fibers lack functional diversity, failing to regulate temperature effectively in high-temperature environments, causing discomfort and promoting mite and mold growth in humid conditions, leading to allergic reactions and reduced fabric lifespan.
Microencapsulated fibers comprising phase-change microcapsules with organic, inorganic, or bio-based PCM materials, and functional microcapsules with anti-mite, anti-fungal, antibacterial, deodorizing, or anti-allergy aids, integrated with a substrate to provide cooling, anti-mite, anti-fungal, deodorizing, and anti-allergy properties.
The microencapsulated fibers effectively regulate temperature, inhibit mite and mold growth, eliminate odors, and prevent allergies, enhancing comfort and extending fabric lifespan by integrating phase-change materials and functional additives.
Smart Images

Figure 0003253968000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of textile materials, and in particular to fibers made by microencapsulation technology. [Background technology]
[0002] Currently, traditional fibers primarily focus on meeting basic fiber performance and appearance requirements, such as strength, softness, color, and luster. However, as consumers' living standards improve and textile functionality is pursued, traditional fibers are no longer able to meet market demand in terms of functional diversity. For example, in high-temperature environments, fabrics made from traditional fibers are unable to regulate temperature properly, resulting in humid and uncomfortable conditions. Furthermore, in humid environments or when used for long periods of time, traditional fibers are prone to the growth of mites and mold, which can cause allergic reactions such as itchy skin and difficulty breathing, and can also produce odors, which affect human health and shorten the lifespan of fabrics.
[0003] In view of the above, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a microencapsulated fiber and its use in textiles, which solves the technical problems of the prior art, namely, that conventional fibers have a relatively single function, and that fabrics made using such fibers are unable to regulate temperature well in high temperature environments, do not provide a comfortable feel to the user, and cause humid and uncomfortable feelings, and are prone to the growth of mites and mold in humid environments or when used for long periods of time, thereby failing to meet users' demands for functional diversity in textiles. Below, various technical effects obtained by preferred technical solutions among the various technical solutions provided by the present invention will be described in detail. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solutions:
[0006] The microcapsule-based fiber provided by the present invention comprises a mixture of phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a substrate. The phase-change microcapsules comprise a phase-change core material and a phase-change wall material coated on the phase-change core material. The phase-change core material comprises any one or any combination of an organic PCM material, an inorganic PCM material, or a bio-based PCM material. The functional microcapsules comprise a functional core material and a functional wall material coated on the functional core material. The functional core material comprises any one or any combination of an anti-mite aid, an anti-fungal aid, an antibacterial and anti-fungal aid, a deodorizing aid, a moisturizing aid, or an anti-allergy aid. The organic PCM material comprises any one or any combination of paraffin, a fatty acid, or a polyol. The phase-change wall material and the functional wall material are both single-layer or multi-layer structures.
[0007] Preferably, the inorganic PCM material comprises any one or any combination of a crystalline hydrated salt, a molten salt, or a metal alloy, and the bio-based PCM material comprises any one or any combination of a natural fatty acid, a biomass derivative, or a plant wax.
[0008] Preferably, the phase change wall material comprises an organic polymer wall material and / or a composite wall material, the organic polymer wall material comprising one or any combination of a melamine resin wall layer, a polyacrylic resin wall layer, an acrylonitrile resin wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer or a polyurea wall layer, and the composite wall material comprises an organic-inorganic hybrid polyurea-silica composite wall layer.
[0009] Preferably, the functional wall material comprises one or any combination of a porous starch wall layer, a hydroxypropyl cellulose wall layer, a porous silica wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer or a polyacrylic wall layer.
[0010] Preferably, the substrate comprises any one or any combination of polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips, the particle size of the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules is 0.1 μm to 0.5 μm, the mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:2, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are mixed with the substrate through an extrusion process to form a masterbatch, and the masterbatch is then spun to form microcapsule-containing fibers.
[0011] Preferably, the substrate comprises lyocell pulp, the particle size of the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules is 1 μm to 5 μm, the mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, and the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are subjected to a wet spinning process with the lyocell pulp to form microcapsule-containing fibers.
[0012] Preferably, the use of the fibers according to the pre-microencapsulation technique, said fibers being used in textiles. [Effects of the Invention]
[0013] The preferred technical solution of the present invention can produce at least the following technical effects:
[0014] The present invention effectively overcomes the technical problems of the prior art, namely, that conventional fibers have a relatively single function, and that fabrics made using such fibers are unable to regulate temperature well in high temperature environments, failing to provide a comfortable feel to the user, causing humid and uncomfortable sensations, and are prone to the growth of mites and mold in humid environments or when used for long periods of time, thereby failing to meet users' demands for functional diversity in textiles.
[0015] The present invention provides a fiber made using microcapsule technology, the fiber comprising a mixture of phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a substrate; the phase-change microcapsules comprising a phase-change core material and a phase-change wall material coated on the phase-change core material; the phase-change core material comprising any one or any combination of organic PCM material, inorganic PCM material, or bio-based PCM material; the functional microcapsules comprising a functional core material and a functional wall material coated on the functional core material; the functional core material comprising any one or any combination of anti-mite aid, anti-fungal aid, antibacterial and anti-fungal aid, deodorizing aid, moisturizing aid, or anti-allergy aid; and both the phase-change wall material and the functional wall material have a single-layer or multi-layer structure.
[0016] In this invention, by blending phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a base material, it is possible to form fibers with multiple integrated functions, such as cooling sensation, anti-mite, anti-fungal, deodorizing and disinfecting, moisturizing, and anti-allergy. These functions are achieved by adding a PCM material to the core material of the phase-change microcapsules and functional auxiliary agents to the core material of the functional microcapsules. PCM materials have phase-change properties and undergo a phase-change process when temperature changes. For example, when the ambient temperature rises, the PCM material changes from solid to liquid. This phase-change process requires the absorption of a large amount of heat, thereby absorbing the surrounding heat and lowering the surface temperature of the fiber and fabric, providing a cooling sensation to the user, effectively regulating temperature, and avoiding the discomfort of being stuffy in high-temperature environments. When the ambient temperature drops, the PCM material changes from liquid to solid, releasing the previously absorbed heat and providing a certain level of heat retention, allowing the fabric to maintain a relatively comfortable feel in various temperature environments. In addition, the functional additives can effectively inhibit the growth of mites and mold, eliminate odors and bacteria, moisturize, and prevent allergies, and extend the service life of the fibers, allowing the fibers to meet the needs of use in various environments, satisfy users' demands for a variety of textile functions, and improve practicality. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0017] In order to more clearly describe the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings necessary for describing the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly described below. However, the drawings in the following description are only some of the embodiments of the present invention, and it is obvious that those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative efforts. [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fiber made using the first microcapsule technology provided by the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of fibrous phase-change microcapsules according to the first microcapsule technology provided in the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of functional microcapsules in fibers according to the first microcapsule technology provided by the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fiber made using the second microcapsule technology provided by the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the enthalpy value of the nylon fiber fabric provided in the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a graph showing the enthalpy value of the fabric made of lyocell fiber provided by the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a graph showing the enthalpy value of the fabric made of the lyocell fiber blended yarn provided by the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0018] In the following, the technical solutions of the present invention will be described in detail to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention clearer. It is clear that the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and are not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments that can be obtained by those skilled in the art without any creative efforts belong to the protection scope of the present invention.
[0019] The present invention provides a fiber made using microcapsule technology, which includes a mixture of phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a substrate. The phase-change microcapsules include a phase-change core material and a phase-change wall material coated on the phase-change core material. The phase-change core material includes any one or any combination of organic PCM material, inorganic PCM material, or bio-based PCM material. The functional microcapsules include a functional core material and a functional wall material coated on the functional core material. The functional core material includes any one or any combination of anti-mite aid, anti-fungal aid, antibacterial and anti-fungal aid, deodorizing aid, moisturizing aid, or anti-allergy aid. The phase-change wall material and the functional wall material are both single-layer or multi-layer structures.
[0020] In this invention, by blending phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a base material, it is possible to form fibers with multiple integrated functions, such as cooling sensation, anti-mite, anti-fungal, deodorizing and disinfecting, moisturizing, and anti-allergy. These functions are achieved by adding a PCM material to the core material of the phase-change microcapsules and functional additives to the core material of the functional microcapsules. PCM materials have phase-change properties and undergo a phase-change process when temperature changes. For example, when the ambient temperature rises, the PCM material changes from solid to liquid. This phase-change process requires the absorption of a large amount of heat, thereby absorbing the surrounding heat and lowering the surface temperature of the fiber and fabric, providing a cooling sensation to the user, effectively regulating temperature, and avoiding the discomfort of being stuffy in high-temperature environments. When the ambient temperature drops, the PCM material changes from liquid to solid, releasing the previously absorbed heat and providing a certain level of heat retention, allowing the fabric to maintain a relatively comfortable feel in various temperature environments. In addition, the functional additives can effectively inhibit the growth of mites and mold, eliminate odors and bacteria, moisturize, and prevent allergies, and extend the service life of the fibers, allowing the fibers to meet the needs of use in various environments, satisfy users' demands for a variety of textile functions, and improve practicality.
[0021] Furthermore, the phase change temperature of the PCM material is 22°C to 40°C.
[0022] Anti-mite aids are used to inhibit the growth of mites. Anti-mold aids are used to inhibit the growth of mold. Antibacterial and antibacterial aids are used to inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Deodorizing aids are used to absorb odorous substances. Moisturizing aids are used to increase moisturizing effects and enhance the antioxidant power of the skin. Anti-allergy aids are used to inhibit and block allergens that are likely to cause allergies.
[0023] In addition, the walls of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules can be either single-layer or multi-layered, providing excellent protection for the phase-change cores and functional cores.
[0024] In optional embodiments, the organic PCM material includes any one or any combination of paraffin, fatty acid, or polyol; the inorganic PCM material includes any one or any combination of crystalline hydrated salt, molten salt, or metal alloy; and the bio-based PCM material includes any one or any combination of natural fatty acid, biomass derivative, or plant wax.
[0025] Furthermore, paraffins include, but are not limited to, mineral waxes and synthetic waxes. Fatty acids include, but are not limited to, palmitic acid and lauric acid. Polyols include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol (PEG). This structure allows organic PCM materials to have the advantages of high chemical stability, no supercooling phenomenon, and no phase separation phenomenon.
[0026] Crystalline hydrated salts include, but are not limited to, sodium acetate trihydrate. Molten salts include, but are not limited to, fluoride salts such as LiF-CaF. Metal alloys include, but are not limited to, Ga-In-Sn alloys. Due to this configuration, inorganic PCM materials offer advantages such as high energy storage density and low cost.
[0027] Natural fatty acids include, but are not limited to, animal fatty acids; biomass derivatives include, but are not limited to, microalgae extracts; and plant waxes include, but are not limited to, palm wax. This composition allows bio-based PCM materials to have advantages such as biodegradability and environmental friendliness.
[0028] In optional embodiments, the phase change wall material comprises an organic polymer wall material and / or a composite wall material, wherein the organic polymer wall material comprises any one or any combination of a melamine resin wall layer, a polyacrylic resin wall layer, an acrylonitrile resin wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer, or a polyurea wall layer, and the composite wall material comprises an organic-inorganic hybrid polyurea-silica composite wall layer.
[0029] The melamine resin wall layer is produced by using melamine resin through a polymerization method, and therefore the melamine resin wall has relatively high hardness and excellent chemical corrosion resistance, thereby improving the stability of the core material.
[0030] The polyacrylic resin wall layer is manufactured using polyacrylic resin, which improves the flexibility and sealing properties of the wall material.
[0031] The acrylonitrile resin wall layer is manufactured using acrylonitrile resin, thereby improving the structural strength and heat resistance of the wall material.
[0032] The polyurethane wall layer is formed using polyurethane through a UV curing process, which improves the permeation resistance of the wall material.
[0033] The polyurea wall layer is formed using polyurea through a UV curing process, which improves the permeation resistance of the wall material.
[0034] The organic-inorganic hybrid polyurea-silica composite wall layer is formed by uniformly dispersing silica nanoparticles in a polyurea matrix, which improves thermal stability and reduces the weight loss rate.
[0035] Furthermore, the phase change wall material preferably has a two-layer structure including a polyurea wall layer and a melamine resin wall layer, and this two-layer wall material has better performance than a single-layer wall material, provides more comprehensive protection for the phase change core material, improves the stability and durability of the phase change microcapsules, and enables the phase change core material to normally perform its phase change temperature regulating function in various environments.
[0036] In an optional embodiment, polar groups are grafted onto the surface of the phase-change microcapsules.
[0037] Furthermore, the polar group contains -COOH, which further strengthens the chemical bond with the polymer matrix and improves the interfacial bonding strength, allowing the phase-change microcapsules to better integrate with the substrate and be less likely to fall off during the fiber manufacturing and use process, ensuring the long-term stability of the phase-change function.
[0038] By grafting an epoxy silane coupling aid onto the surface of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules, the number of times the fibers can withstand washing with water can also be increased.
[0039] In optional embodiments, the functional wall material comprises any one or any combination of a porous starch wall layer, a hydroxypropyl cellulose wall layer, a porous silica wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer, or a polyacrylic wall layer.
[0040] The porous starch wall layer has a pore structure that can effectively protect the functional core material, and its porous properties also contribute to the sustained release of the functional core material inside.
[0041] The hydroxypropyl cellulose wall layer has excellent film-forming properties and adjustable permeability, and can effectively encase and protect the internal functional core material, allowing precise control of the release of the functional core material.
[0042] The porous silica wall layer has a large specific surface area and a large pore volume, which not only provides good coverage and protection for the functional core material, but also provides convenient channels for the sustained release of the functional core material due to its porous structure.
[0043] The porous polyurethane wall layer is manufactured using polyurethane through a UV curing process, which improves the permeation resistance of the wall material. Furthermore, its porous nature also contributes to the sustained release process of the functional core material.
[0044] The polyacrylic resin wall layer is manufactured using polyacrylic resin, which improves the flexibility and airtightness of the wall material and protects the functional core material from the influence of the external environment.
[0045] In an optional embodiment, the substrate comprises any one or any combination of polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips, the particle size of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules is 0.1 μm to 0.5 μm, the mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:2, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200.
[0046] The pretreated phase change microcapsules and functional microcapsules are mixed with a substrate and extruded to form a masterbatch, and the masterbatch is subjected to a spinning process to form fibers containing the microcapsules.
[0047] The particle sizes of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules are 0.1 μm to 0.5 μm, the mass ratio of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:2, the mass ratio of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, and the particle size of the masterbatch is 2 mm to 3 mm. This configuration prevents clogging of the spinneret holes during the melt spinning step and improves the mechanical properties of the fiber. Furthermore, it minimizes the impact on fiber strength while ensuring functionality.
[0048] The substrate may be any of polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, and nylon chips, or any combination thereof. Among these, polyester chips have excellent mechanical properties, wrinkle resistance, shape retention, and elastic recovery. Polyethylene chips have high strength, low density, and excellent insulation properties. Polypropylene has high strength, excellent elasticity, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, and excellent heat insulation properties. Nylon chips have excellent abrasion resistance, elastic recovery, fatigue resistance, and moisture absorption properties.
[0049] Polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, and nylon chips have the properties described above, and when combined with phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules, they contribute to the performance of the functions of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules.
[0050] In an optional embodiment, the substrate further comprises lyocell pulp, the particle sizes of the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are 1 μm to 5 μm, the mass ratio of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200. The phase-change microcapsules, the functional microcapsules, and the lyocell pulp are subjected to a wet spinning process to form fibers containing the microcapsules.
[0051] Lyocell pulp has excellent properties such as moisture absorption, breathability, flexibility, and chemical stability, and fibers made from it are comfortable to the touch and have a relatively long lifespan. When combined with phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules, lyocell pulp contributes to the performance of the functions of the phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules.
[0052] The phase-change microcapsules and functional microcapsules have a particle size of 1 μm to 5 μm, which makes them particularly suitable for the wet spinning process, and they can be well dispersed in the spinning solution.
[0053] The mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, so this configuration minimizes the impact on fiber strength while ensuring functionality.
[0054] Uses of microencapsulated fibers that can be woven into fabrics or used as stuffing in bedding, carpets, body pillows, toys, pet beds, and other household textiles and apparel.
[0055] Fibers can be converted into nonwoven fabrics using processes such as spunbonding, needlepunching, or spunlacing. Fibers can also be converted into fabrics of various constructions using processes such as warp knitting, weft knitting, or weaving.
[0056] Fiber comes in two forms: staple and filament. Staple fibers are spun into batting used as filling in quilts, mattresses, comforters, carpets, body pillows, and toys. Staple fibers can also be blended with at least one other component to produce blended yarns, which gives the blended yarns a more comfortable feel. [Example]
[0057] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the present invention provides a fiber made using microcapsule technology. The fiber includes a mixture of phase-change microcapsules 1, functional microcapsules 2, and a substrate. The phase-change core material 11 of the phase-change microcapsules 1 includes paraffin, the phase-change wall material 12 includes melamine resin, and the wall layer is the phase-change wall material 12. The phase-change microcapsules 1 are manufactured by an in-situ polymerization method. The functional microcapsules 2 include moisture-retaining microcapsules, the moisture-retaining core material includes tocopherol, and the moisture-retaining wall material includes a porous starch wall layer. The porous starch is coated with tocopherol by a spray-drying method to form the moisture-retaining microcapsules. The substrate includes polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips 3.
[0058] The manufacturing steps of the fiber 5 of the present invention include the following steps:
[0059] S1: Production of phase-change microcapsules 1: Using paraffin as the phase-change core material 11 and melamine resin as the phase-change wall material 12, phase-change microcapsules 1 having a particle size of 2 μm were produced by in-situ polymerization.
[0060] Furthermore, by modifying the surface of the phase-change microcapsules 1, the phase-change microcapsules 1 can be dispersed well in the polymer, improving the bonding strength between the microcapsules and the substrate. Specifically, a 4% to 6% by mass aqueous solution of hydroxymethylcellulose is added to the phase-change microcapsules 1. This treatment improves the interfacial compatibility between the phase-change microcapsules 1 and the polymer and prevents aggregation.
[0061] S2: Preparation of moisturizing microcapsules: Tocopherol was used as the moisturizing core material and porous starch was used as the moisturizing wall material. The porous starch was coated onto the tocopherol by spray drying (inlet air temperature 160°C, outlet air temperature 80°C) to form moisturizing microcapsules.
[0062] The moisturizing microcapsules' wall material is modified with 0.5 wt% BHT antioxidant to prevent decomposition during high-temperature spinning. When the fibers are rubbed or wet with sweat, the moisturizing microcapsules burst, releasing vitamin E, which enhances the skin's antioxidant power and provides a slow moisturizing effect.
[0063] S3: Pretreatment of substrate: Polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips 3 were selected as the substrate for producing fibers 5. First, the polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips 3 were frozen, and then pulverized to form a uniform substrate powder.
[0064] S4: Material mixing: According to actual production needs and product performance requirements, phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 were uniformly mixed with the base powder so that the mass ratio range of phase-change microcapsules 1 to the base material was 1:2 and the mass ratio range of functional microcapsules 2 to the base material was 1:33, and the phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 were uniformly dispersed in the base powder.
[0065] S5: Masterbatch Preparation: The homogeneously mixed materials were fed into a twin-screw extruder and processed using a screw extrusion process. The twin-screw extruder employed a step-by-step temperature control system. For the PBS system, the temperature in Zone 1 was set at 160°C, Zone 2 at 170°C, and Zone 3 at 165°C to ensure complete melting and mixing during the extrusion process. The twin-screw extruder also featured a high-shear zone to further disperse the microcapsules while preventing damage to the phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 during the extrusion process. After extrusion, the materials were pelletized in water to produce cylindrical masterbatches with a uniform particle size controlled at 2–3 mm.
[0066] S6: Masterbatch drying: The produced masterbatch was placed in a drying device and pre-dried to reduce the water content of the masterbatch to less than 0.1%. Pre-drying removes water from the masterbatch and prevents air bubbles from forming during the spinning process, which can affect the quality of the fiber 5.
[0067] S7: Melt spinning: The dried masterbatch is charged into a spinning device and melted to form a melt with good fluidity. Through the spinning process, the melt is extruded through the nozzle holes (diameter 0.3 mm or more) of the spinneret to form continuous filaments. After cooling and hardening, the phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 are uniformly coated within the fiber, and fiber 5 containing phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 is finally obtained. This allows the phase-change microcapsules 1 and functional microcapsules 2 to be stably integrated into fiber 5.
[0068] The fibers 5 can be processed into nonwoven fabrics by processes such as spunbonding, needlepunching, or spunlacing. The fibers 5 can also be processed into fabrics of various structures by processes such as warp knitting, weft knitting, or weaving.
[0069] Fiber comes in two forms: staple and filament. Staple fibers are spun into batting used as filling in quilts, mattresses, comforters, carpets, body pillows, and toys. Staple fibers can also be blended with at least one other component to produce blended yarns, which gives the blended yarns a more comfortable feel.
[0070] As shown in Figure 5, an enthalpy test was conducted on a fabric made from the nylon fiber of the present invention, and the fiber contained 13% phase change microcapsules, resulting in an enthalpy value of 21 J / g. As shown in Figure 6, an enthalpy test was conducted on a fabric made from the lyocell fiber of the present invention, and the fiber contained 45% phase change microcapsules, resulting in an enthalpy value of 75.5 J / g. These data indicate that the fiber and fabric of the present invention have excellent phase change energy storage properties and can effectively regulate temperature.
[0071] Antibacterial tests on the polyester fiber of this invention demonstrated an antibacterial rate of over 99% against Staphylococcus aureus and over 99% against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, antibacterial tests were conducted on pure polyester fabrics made from this polyester fiber. JISL 1902:2015 Quantitative Test (Bacterial Liquid Absorption Method) Textile Evaluation Technology Council "SEK Mark Textile Product Washing Method" - Standard Washing Method, Viable Bacteria Count Measurement Method: Mixed Plate Culture Method. The test results showed that the pure polyester fabric of this invention exhibited excellent antibacterial effects before washing, and maintained its antibacterial performance at or above the acceptable level even after 10 washes.
[0072] The fabric made from the multifunctional fiber of this invention has an antibacterial rate of more than 99% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and an antibacterial rate of more than 97% against Candida albicans, which far exceeds the AAA-level technical requirements of FZ / T 73023-2006, demonstrating that the fabric of this invention has high antibacterial properties. [Example]
[0073] Example 2 differs from Example 1 in the following respects: As shown in FIG.
[0074] The particle size of the phase-change microcapsules 1 and the moisture-retaining microcapsules is 1 μm to 5 μm, the mass ratio of the phase-change microcapsules 1 to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio of the moisture-retaining microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200. The phase-change microcapsules 1, the moisture-retaining microcapsules, and the lyocell pulp 4 are subjected to a wet spinning process to form fibers 5 containing the microcapsules. The phase-change microcapsules 1 form a heat storage area inside the lyocell pulp 4, which undergoes a solid-liquid phase change when the temperature changes, absorbing and releasing heat, thereby achieving dynamic temperature control.
[0075] Lyocell pulp 4 has excellent properties such as moisture absorption, breathability, flexibility, and chemical stability, and fibers 5 produced therefrom are comfortable to the touch and have a relatively long lifespan. When combined with phase-change microcapsules 1 and moisture-retaining microcapsules, lyocell pulp 4 contributes to the performance of the functions of the phase-change microcapsules 1 and moisture-retaining microcapsules.
[0076] The phase-change microcapsules 1 and moisture-retaining microcapsules have particle sizes of 1 μm to 5 μm, making them particularly suitable for the wet spinning process. The phase-change microcapsules 1 and moisture-retaining microcapsules can be well dispersed in the spinning solution.
[0077] The mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules 1 to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio range of the moisturizing microcapsules 1 to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200.This configuration minimizes the impact on the strength of the fiber 5 while ensuring functionality.
[0078] The method for producing fibers by microcapsule technology includes the following steps:
[0079] The steps S1: manufacturing phase-change microcapsules 1 and S2: manufacturing moisture-retaining microcapsules are the same as the manufacturing steps in Example 1, and therefore will not be described in detail here.
[0080] S3: Preparation of spinning solution:
[0081] S301: Oxidative modification of lyocell pulp: Lyocell pulp was placed in a H2O2 / acetic acid system and oxidized at a temperature of 60-70°C for 2 hours, introducing carboxyl groups (-COOH) to improve the cross-linking ability with the OPHB antibacterial agent and control the carboxyl group content to 0.8 mmol / g or more.
[0082] S302: Preparation of OPHB dispersion: OPHB antibacterial agent was dispersed in NMMO solvent to prepare a 3-5 wt% OPHB dispersion. OPHB antibacterial agent exerts broad-spectrum bacteriostatic activity by destroying the cell membranes of microorganisms. The carboxyl groups generated by the oxidation treatment of Lyocell pulp can form stable crosslinks with the active groups of the OPHB antibacterial agent.
[0083] S303: Preparation of spinning solution: Oxidized pulp was dissolved in 12% to 14% NMMO solvent, and phase-change microcapsules 1, vitamin E microcapsules, and OPHB dispersion were added sequentially to obtain a spinning solution. The phase-change microcapsule content was 6 to 48 wt%, the vitamin E microcapsule content was 0.5 wt%, and the OPHB dispersion content was 1.5 wt%. Homogenization was performed for 30 minutes using high-speed shear at a rotation speed of 8000 rpm to prevent aggregation.
[0084] Here, the content of the phase-change microcapsules is 6 to 48 wt%, the content of the vitamin E microcapsules is 0.5 wt%, and the content of the OPHB dispersion liquid is 1.5 wt%.
[0085] Additionally, polyethylene glycol grafted cellulose was added to the spinning solution to reduce the interfacial tension.
[0086] S4: Wet spinning: The spinning solution was sent to a wet spinning apparatus and spun using a spinneret with a 0.08 mm orifice diameter. The spinning solution was then introduced into a coagulation bath containing a 15% by weight NMMO aqueous solution, and the temperature was controlled at 35°C. Phase separation was controlled by adjusting the concentration and / or temperature of the coagulation bath, and the fibers were drawn at a draw ratio of 1.5x to form solid fibers. Furthermore, a uniform porous structure was formed within the fibers, which is advantageous for the sustained release of functional ingredients such as vitamin E microcapsules and OPHB antibacterial agents. Furthermore, the temperature of the coagulation bath was controlled below 35°C to prevent the decomposition of vitamin E at high temperatures.
[0087] S5: Post-processing for enhancement
[0088] S501: The fibers were immersed in a polycarboxylic acid crosslinking agent such as BTCA solution, and under catalytic conditions, OPHB was bonded to the oxidized cellulose of the fibers via ester bonds. The treated fibers have improved washability.
[0089] S502: By impregnating the fiber with silicone oil softener, friction loss on the surface of vitamin E microcapsules in the fiber was effectively reduced, while maintaining their sustained release efficiency. Finally, Lyocell pulp 4 was created, which has multiple functions such as dynamic temperature regulation, sustained moisture release, and broad-spectrum antibacterial properties, and has an internal porous structure that is advantageous for the sustained release of functional ingredients.
[0090] As shown in Figure 7, when the fabric made of the lyocell fiber blended yarn of the present invention was subjected to an enthalpy value test, the fiber had a phase change microcapsule content of 20% and an enthalpy value of 35.1 J / g, which indicates that the fiber and fabric of the present invention have good phase change energy storage performance and can effectively regulate temperature. [Example]
[0091] Example 3 differs from Example 2 in the following respects: the phase-change core material 11 of the phase-change microcapsules 1 contains n-octadecane, and the phase-change wall material 12 is obtained by sequentially polymerizing acrylic acid, butyl acrylate, and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide using gradient crosslinking technology, resulting in a polymer with a flexible inner layer and a dense outer layer.
[0092] As an optional embodiment, the phase change microcapsules 1 are immersed in a 0.3 wt% chitosan solution to improve the interfacial bonding strength between the phase change microcapsules 1 and the Lyocell pulp 4 .
[0093] A manufacturing process for phase change material microcapsules includes the following steps:
[0094] S101: A pre-emulsification system was constructed using the following ingredients and mixing ratios.
[0095] n-Octadecane, which accounts for 40-45 wt% of the total oil phase, was used as the phase change core material, and the melting point of n-octadecane was 28-30°C.
[0096] A composite emulsifier was used to synergistically reduce the interfacial tension and stabilize the oil droplets, where Span80 accounted for 2.5% and Tween60 accounted for 1.5%.
[0097] To increase the flexibility of the wall material, butyl acrylate is selected as the oil-soluble monomer.
[0098] The aqueous medium is deionized water with 0.1% PVPK30 added to prevent adhesion during the polymerization process.
[0099] The shear rate was controlled between 10,000 and 12,000 rpm during the pre-emulsification process, with the initial droplet size controlled between 2 and 4 μm. The emulsification time was 15 min. An ice-water bath was used to cool the phase-change material to avoid thermal decomposition. Real-time monitoring using a Malvern particle size analyzer revealed that the target emulsion D50 was 2.8 ± 0.3 μm.
[0100] A two-stage emulsification method was used: in the first stage, high-shear coarse emulsification was performed at 12,000 rpm for 5 min, and in the second stage, three cycles of microfluidization homogenization were performed at a pressure of 150 MPa to control the particle size distribution CV value to <10%.
[0101] Addition of 0.05% fluorine-based surfactant (FS-3100) reduced the oil / water interfacial tension to 8 mN / m, and suppressed the growth of particle size due to Ostwald ripening.
[0102] S102: Interfacial polymerization: A redox low-temperature initiation system was used, in which 0.5 wt% ammonium persulfate (APS) was added dropwise as a water-soluble initiation aid, and 0.2 wt% sodium hydrogen sulfite was added dropwise as a reduction aid to construct the redox system.
[0103] Polymerization conditions: The reaction temperature was controlled at 55±1°C, higher than the melting point of n-octadecane, to promote monomer diffusion. The pH was controlled at 3.5-4.0 by adjusting with acetic acid to promote the protonation and crosslinking of acrylic acid. The stirring speed was required to be 300-400 rpm to maintain dynamic equilibrium and prevent settling. The reaction time was set to 4.5 hours to achieve a conversion rate of >95%.
[0104] The structural design of the phase change wall material 12 employs a gradient cross-linking technique using acrylic acid, butyl acrylate, and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide in sequence, achieving a structure with a flexible inner layer and a dense outer layer, thereby improving compressive strength.
[0105] Acrylic acid was pumped at 0.5 mL / min to control the dropping rate of the monomer and to avoid uneven particle size due to local overpolymerization.
[0106] S103: Phase separation and hardening: The temperature was cooled from 55°C to 45°C, then cooled to 35°C at a rate of 1°C / min and kept constant for 1 hour, and finally rapidly cooled to 10°C, to induce directional deposition of the wall material and prevent leakage of the capsule core.
[0107] A divalent calcium ion solution such as CaCl2 was added dropwise as a hardener to form an ionic crosslinked network with the carboxyl groups of the polyacrylic acid.
[0108] S104: Post-treatment and particle size classification:
[0109] S1041: Demulsification: To remove free polymer, centrifugation was carried out at 3000 rpm for 10 min.
[0110] S1042: Washing: Washed three times with a mixture of ethanol and water in a volume ratio of 3:7 to remove residual monomers and emulsifiers.
[0111] S1043: Classification and sieving: The microcapsules were classified using serially connected sieves, and then collected using a 5 μm sieve, a 3 μm sieve to capture the target particle size, and a 1 μm sieve to remove fine powder, resulting in the collection of 1-3 μm phase change microcapsules.
[0112] S1044: Drying: Using the freeze-drying method, the capsules were first pre-frozen at -40°C and then sublimated under 0.1 mbar to maintain their shape and reduce the moisture content of the phase-change microcapsules 1 to less than 2%.
[0113] In addition, identical or similar parts in each of the above embodiments may be mutually referenced, and content that is not described in detail in some embodiments may be referenced to identical or similar parts in other embodiments.
[0114] In describing the present invention, it should be understood that "plurality" means two or more unless otherwise specified. The orientations or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "front," "rear," "head," and "tail" are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the drawings and are intended solely to facilitate and simplify the description of the present invention. They do not imply or indicate that the devices or elements referred to have a particular orientation or must be configured and operated in a particular orientation, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to imply or indicate relative importance.
[0115] In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise expressly defined and limited, the terms "attach," "couple," and "connect" should be understood in a broad sense, and may refer to, for example, a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They may be mechanically connected or electrically connected. They may be directly connected or indirectly connected via an intermediate medium. The specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood by those skilled in the art depending on the circumstances.
[0116] In the description herein, references to the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "one example" mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. Note that, in the description herein, general 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 any one or more embodiments or examples.
[0117] The above are only specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto, and any modifications or substitutions that a person skilled in the art can easily make within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included in the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be equivalent to the scope of protection of the utility model registration claims. [Explanation of symbols]
[0118] 1. Phase change microcapsules 11 Phase change core material 12 Phase change wall materials 2. Functional microcapsules 21 Functional core material 22 Functional wall materials 3 nylon tips 4. Lyocell pulp 5. Fiber
Claims
1. A fiber made by microcapsule technology, The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a microcapsule, a method for manufacturing a microcapsule, and a substrate, the method comprising: mixing phase-change microcapsules, functional microcapsules, and a substrate; the phase-change microcapsules comprising a phase-change core material and a phase-change wall material coated on the phase-change core material; the phase-change core material comprising any one or any combination of an organic PCM material, an inorganic PCM material, or a bio-based PCM material; the functional microcapsules comprising a functional core material and a functional wall material coated on the functional core material; the functional core material comprising any one or any combination of an anti-mite aid, an anti-fungal aid, an antibacterial and anti-fungal aid, a deodorizing aid, a moisturizing aid, and an anti-allergy aid; A fiber produced by microencapsulation technology, characterized in that the organic PCM material includes any one or any combination of paraffin, fatty acid, or polyol.
2. 2. The microencapsulated fiber of claim 1, wherein the inorganic PCM material comprises any one or any combination of a crystalline hydrated salt, a molten salt, or a metal alloy, and the bio-based PCM material comprises any one or any combination of a natural fatty acid, a biomass derivative, or a plant wax.
3. The fiber produced by microcapsule technology according to claim 1, characterized in that the phase change wall material comprises an organic polymer wall material and / or a composite wall material, the organic polymer wall material comprising one or any combination of a melamine resin wall layer, a polyacrylic resin wall layer, an acrylonitrile resin wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer, or a polyurea wall layer, and the composite wall material comprises an organic-inorganic hybrid polyurea-silica composite wall layer.
4. 2. The microcapsule fiber of claim 1, wherein the functional wall material comprises one or any combination of a porous starch wall layer, a hydroxypropyl cellulose wall layer, a porous silica wall layer, a polyurethane wall layer, or a polyacrylic resin wall layer.
5. The fiber produced by microcapsule technology according to claim 1, characterized in that the substrate comprises any one or any combination of polyester chips, polyethylene chips, polypropylene chips, or nylon chips, the particle sizes of the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are 0.1 μm to 0.5 μm, the mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:2, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are mixed with the substrate through an extrusion process to form a masterbatch, and the masterbatch is then spun to form a microcapsule-containing fiber.
6. The fiber produced by microcapsule technology according to claim 1, characterized in that the substrate comprises lyocell pulp, the particle sizes of the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are 1 μm to 5 μm, the mass ratio range of the phase-change microcapsules to the substrate is 1:20 to 1:1, and the mass ratio range of the functional microcapsules to the substrate is 1:33 to 1:200, and the phase-change microcapsules and the functional microcapsules are subjected to a wet spinning process with the lyocell pulp to form a microcapsule-containing fiber.
Citation Information
Cited By
Cooling fabrics and personal items
JP3255164U