Activated Metal Compositions for Surface and Water Pathogen Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for anti-pathogen compositions capable of neutralizing pathogens on contact, both on dry surfaces and in water, to control harmful pathogens, particularly in the medical and food storage industries, where traditional anti-pathogens are ineffective or in short supply.
Innovation Solution
The development of activated metal-based compositions, including activated molybdenum, zinc, copper, and silver, incorporated into solid forms such as stainless steel, plastics, and liquid forms like sanitizers, which are effective in neutralizing pathogens by increasing their anti-pathogen activity through specific activation processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional anti-pathogen compositions are used, then pathogen neutralization is achieved, but effectiveness is limited and supply is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming metal particles through activation processes that alter their surface properties and chemical state. Metals are activated through oxidation, plasma treatment, or chemical processing to enhance their anti-pathogen activity, converting ordinary metals into highly effective pathogen-neutralizing agents with improved reliability and effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining activated metal particles with various substrates including polymers, biopolymers, ceramics, and coatings. These composite structures integrate the superior anti-pathogen properties of activated metals with the functional advantages of different material matrices, creating versatile compositions that maintain effectiveness while expanding availability across different applications.
2Productivity
If activated metal compositions are used, then pathogen neutralization efficiency is improved, but complexity of activation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-activating metal particles during manufacturing processes before the compositions are deployed for pathogen neutralization. Activation is performed in advance through controlled oxidation, surface treatment, or chemical processing during production, so that the compositions arrive ready-to-use with enhanced anti-pathogen activity already established, eliminating the need for complex activation steps at the point of use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If metal particles are incorporated into various forms, then versatility of application is increased, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by developing a standardized activated metal particle platform that can be integrated into multiple different matrix types including polymers, biopolymers, ceramics, and coatings. The same activated metal particles serve multiple functions across different application domains such as medical devices, food packaging, water treatment, and surface coatings, reducing manufacturing complexity through platform technology while maintaining broad versatility.
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 activated metal compositions demonstrate improved pathogen neutralization efficiency, maintaining effectiveness for extended periods and reducing the need for traditional anti-pathogens, especially in critical settings like medical facilities and households.
Implementation Method 1
the active component comprises particles (e.g., ionic particles, microparticles or nanoparticles) of at least one activated metal
Data Source
AI summary
Compositions comprising an activated metal or metal oxide useful for neutralizing pathogens. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a solid anti-pathogen composition comprising an active component, wherein the active component comprises particles of at least one activated metal. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an anti-pathogen liquid composition comprising particles of an active component and in a water or saline solution, wherein the active component comprises particles of at least one activated metal. Also described herein are methods for neutralizing microbes and pathogens on surfaces and in water.