Acidic Hard Surface Cleaning Composition for Limescale and Malodor Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hard surface cleaning compositions are ineffective in addressing a broad range of malodors, particularly amine-based and sulfur-based odors, and may not provide immediate odor reduction, leading to consumer dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A liquid acidic hard surface cleaning composition comprising formic acid, citric acid, and an alkaline material, with a pH of above 2.0, which effectively removes limescale and neutralizes malodors without being corrosive, using a combination of volatile aldehydes and an acid catalyst for malodor control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional perfumed cleaning compositions are used to mask odors, then pleasant scent is provided, but amine-based and sulfur-based malodors are not effectively controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the cleaning composition by incorporating specific acids (formic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid) with controlled concentrations and pH levels (above 2.0). This parameter adjustment enables effective neutralization of amine-based and sulfur-based malodors while maintaining non-corrosive properties, resolving the contradiction between odor control effectiveness and malodor neutralization performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite cleaning composition combining multiple acid constituents (formic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid) with surfactants and other cleaning agents. This composite formulation synergistically addresses both pleasant scent provision and effective malodor neutralization, including difficult-to-control amine and sulfur-based odors
2Productivity
If stronger acids are used to improve limescale removal, then cleaning performance increases, but corrosiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the pH parameter to be above 2.0 and controls the concentration of each acid constituent within specific ranges. This parameter control achieves effective limescale removal while preventing excessive corrosiveness, resolving the contradiction between cleaning performance and harmful effects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a combination of different acids with varying strengths and properties (formic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid). Each acid contributes differently to limescale removal and corrosion resistance, creating a balanced formulation that achieves high cleaning performance with reduced corrosiveness
3Reliability
If products are applied to neutralize malodors, then odor reduction may be achieved, but the time required creates consumer doubt as to efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning composition is applied directly to the surface containing malodors, allowing immediate contact and reaction. The formulation is designed to work quickly upon application, reducing the time lag between application and noticeable odor reduction, thereby addressing consumer concerns about efficacy timing
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 composition provides excellent limescale removal and malodor neutralization performance, ensuring surfaces are cleaned and deodorized effectively without the need for additional mechanical agitation, while maintaining non-corrosive properties.
Implementation Method 1
volatile aldehydes and an acid catalyst for malodor control
Implementation Method 2
an acid catalyst for malodor control
Implementation Method 3
liquid acidic hard surface cleaning composition comprising formic acid, citric acid... which effectively removes limescale
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A hard surface cleaning composition comprising a malodor control component, and methods of cleaning hard surfaces are provided. In some embodiments, the hard surface cleaning composition comprises at least one volatile aldehyde and an acid catalyst.