Alternating Voltage Pore Formation in Curable Matrices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for alternative methods to enhance the versatility and industrial production of porous materials, which are currently limited by the existing methods for controlling pore structure and functionality in materials like porous membranes and solid films.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a mixture of particles and a curable matrix subjected to alternating voltages of different frequencies to form through-going passages or holes, where particles can be located at the interface, allowing for the creation of materials with varied pore sizes, shapes, and distributions, suitable for applications such as catalysis and membrane technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional methods are used to produce porous materials, then production can be maintained at current levels, but versatility and industrial production capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical pore formation methods with an electric field-based approach. Alternating voltages are applied to the curable matrix to manipulate liquid pockets and form through-going passages, eliminating the need for mechanical punching, drilling, or chemical etching processes. This substitution enables scalable industrial production while providing precise control over pore characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in electric field parameters (voltage amplitude, frequency, waveform) to control the formation and configuration of through-going passages. By varying these parameters during the curing process, different pore sizes, shapes, and distributions can be achieved in a single continuous process, enhancing both versatility and production efficiency.
2Manufacturing precision
If pore structure is controlled using existing methods, then some functionality is achieved, but precise control over pore characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electric field-based pore formation method serves multiple functions simultaneously: it creates through-going passages, controls pore size and shape, positions particles at interfaces, and maintains material integrity during processing. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single apparatus and process framework, reducing overall system complexity despite the precision achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the electric field to create standardized, repeatable pore structures that can be consistently reproduced across different production batches. The alternating voltage patterns generate consistent liquid pocket arrangements and through-going passage geometries, enabling precise manufacturing control through programmable electrical parameters rather than complex mechanical setups.
3Adaptability or versatility
If through-going passages are formed in curable matrix, then materials with tailored properties are produced, but particles may not be properly positioned at interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies alternating voltages with specific frequencies during the curing process to periodically manipulate liquid pockets and particles. This periodic electric field action causes particles to migrate to and stabilize at the interfaces between the curable matrix and through-going passages, ensuring precise positioning while the material cures. The frequency and duration of the alternating voltage are controlled to achieve optimal particle distribution.
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
This method enables the production of materials with tailored properties by forming through-going passages or holes within the cured matrix, enhancing their functionality for specific uses such as catalysis and membrane technology, and allowing for the trapping of components within the material pores.
Implementation Method 1
curing said curable matrix into a cured matrix
Implementation Method 2
subjecting said mixture to a first alternating voltage having a first frequency to form a body in which said at least one liquid pocket extends from a first surface of said body to a second surface of said body
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described for forming a body having at least one through-going passage, said method has the steps of:a) providing a mixture comprising particles and at least one liquid pocket inside a curable matrix,b) subjecting said mixture to a first alternating voltage having a first frequency to form a body in which said at least one liquid pocket extends from a first surface of said body to a second surface of said body thereby forming at least one through-going passage lacking curable matrix, andc) curing said curable matrix into a cured matrix,wherein at least some of said particles are located at an interface between said at least one through-going passage comprising liquid and said cured matrix.