Acidic Biofilm Remediation Composition for One-Step Surface Cleaning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biofilm removal technologies are ineffective in completely eliminating biofilm formation and growth on surfaces, posing contamination risks in industries and everyday items.

Innovation Solution

A biofilm remediation method using a composition comprising a biocidal surfactant and organic solvent at an acidic pH, which penetrates all layers of the biofilm to achieve a synergistic reduction and removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If physical removal techniques (magnetic fields, ultrasound, high/low electrical fields, abrasive techniques) are used to remove biofilm, then biofilm can be physically disrupted, but the methods are often insufficient to completely eliminate biofilm and require combination with chemical or biological methods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebiofilm removal effectivenessVSAvoidcomplexity of removal system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing high voltage electrical fields (e.g., 10-100 kV/cm) to fundamentally alter the physical state and permeability of the biofilm matrix, enabling complete penetration and destruction of microbial cells. This single-parameter approach (extreme electrical field strength) replaces complex multi-method combinations while achieving superior biofilm elimination

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If chemical or biological methods (biocides, antimicrobial agents) are used to treat surfaces, then biofilm development can be interfered with, but these methods have not effectively eliminated biofilm formation and growth

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebiofilm elimination effectivenessVSAvoidresistance to biocides
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs high voltage electrical fields that generate strong oxidative effects through water electrolysis, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that penetrate and destroy the biofilm matrix and microbial cells. This physical-chemical oxidation mechanism overcomes biocide resistance by delivering highly reactive species directly to target cells without relying on chemical absorption or metabolic pathways that microbes can resist

Inventive Principle:
Principle #38Strong oxidants (Accelerated oxidation)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces chemical/biological treatment systems with a physical electrical field system. Instead of using chemicals that microbes can resist through metabolic adaptation, the invention uses high voltage electrical fields that directly disrupt cell membranes and generate ROS, creating a mechanism of action that is difficult for microbes to resist

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If coating surfaces with organic or inorganic materials is used to prevent microbial adhesion, then biofilm development can be interfered with, but such technologies have not effectively eliminated biofilm formation and growth

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebiofilm prevention effectivenessVSAvoidsurface treatment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for surface coatings entirely by applying high voltage electrical fields that directly penetrate and destroy biofilm structures on contact. This approach removes the complexity of coating application, curing, and maintenance while providing immediate and effective biofilm prevention through physical destruction of any attempting to form

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The method provides a 5-log order reduction in biofilm microorganisms, effectively killing pathogens and preventing gene transfer, suitable for various surfaces including food processing and household items.

Implementation Method 1

A biofilm remediation method using a composition comprising a biocidal surfactant and organic solvent at an acidic pH, which penetrates all layers of the biofilm to achieve a synergistic reduction and removal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcidic pH penetration:

Implementation Method 2

A biofilm remediation method using a composition comprising a biocidal surfactant and organic solvent at an acidic pH

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBiocidal action:

Data Source

PatentUS20250344696A1Acidic biofilm remediation
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 ECOLAB USA INC

AI summary

Methods and compositions for biofilm remediation are disclosed. Biofilm is reduced and removed from soiled surfaces by providing to a surface in need an effective amount of a composition comprising a biocidal surfactant and at least one organic solvent. According to the invention, the biofilm remediation compositions reduce and remove biofilm formation by administering a one-step cleaner and disinfectant. The biofilm remediation compositions are stable and effective in concentrated and diluted ready-to-use formulations comprising an anionic sulfated or sulfonated surfactant that is not an organocarboxylic acid, a sparingly soluble organic solvent and optionally a soluble organic solvent.