Acrylic Core-Shell Polymer Thickeners for Low pH Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rheology modifiers, such as alkali-swellable emulsion polymers, fail to maintain clarity and viscosity in surfactant-based formulations at acidic pH ranges, and there is a need for preservatives that are safer for human use while maintaining antimicrobial efficacy.
Innovation Solution
Acrylic-based staged core-shell polymers with a linear core and crosslinked shell, combined with anionic or amphoteric surfactants and acid-based preservatives, which provide high clarity and stability in low pH aqueous compositions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If alkali-swellable emulsion polymers are used as rheology modifiers, then viscosity and suspension properties are improved, but clarity deteriorates at acidic pH ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical structure parameters of the polymer by incorporating crosslinked units into the emulsion polymer framework. This structural modification enables the polymer to maintain its thickening capability at acidic pH levels while preserving optical clarity, directly resolving the contradiction between viscosity stability and clarity at low pH ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite polymer structure combining crosslinked units with emulsion polymer chains. This composite architecture provides both the rheological control needed for viscosity stability and the optical properties required for clarity, allowing the material to function effectively at acidic pH where conventional ASE polymers fail.
2Stability of the object's composition
If solid thickeners like Carbomer powders are used, then viscosity enhancement is achieved, but processing complexity and safety requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs liquid emulsion formules containing the crosslinked polymer thickener, eliminating the need for solid powder handling infrastructure. The liquid formulation can be directly incorporated into aqueous systems through simple mixing, removing requirements for dust extraction equipment, sifting machinery, and specialized safety protocols while maintaining effective viscosity enhancement.
3Reliability
If conventional preservatives like formaldehyde donors and halogenated compounds are used, then antimicrobial efficacy is maintained, but safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs acid-based preservatives that function effectively at low pH levels, replacing conventional but concerning preservatives. These alternative preservatives provide adequate antimicrobial protection without the safety issues associated with formaldehyde donors and halogenated compounds, offering a safer yet equally effective solution for product preservation.
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 acrylic-based staged core-shell polymers maintain smooth rheology and clarity in surfactant compositions at low pH values, effectively suspending insoluble components without significant viscosity changes over time, addressing the limitations of existing thickeners and preservatives.
Implementation Method 1
an acrylic based crosslinked shell polymer
Implementation Method 2
acrylic based staged core-shell polymers comprising a linear core and at least one crosslinked outer shell
Implementation Method 3
acrylic based staged core-shell polymer rheology modifier
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are multi-staged acrylic based core-shell polymers comprising a linear core polymer and at least one subsequently polymerized shell polymers is crosslinked. The core-shell polymers suprisingly provide desirable rheological, clarity, and aesthetic properties in aqueous surfactant containing compositions, particularly at low pH.