Antimicrobial Composition for Residue-Free 24-Hour Surface Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antimicrobial compositions provide long-lasting benefits but leave a sticky/tacky feel, poor shine, and increased surface residue, while high quaternary ammonium levels increase toxicity and decrease cleaning efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A judicious selection of surfactant and quaternary ammonium compound, specifically alkyldimethylbenzylammonium compounds, with careful formulation to exclude dialkyldimethylammonium compounds, achieves stable, residue-free, and shine-enhancing biocidal properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If high levels of quaternary ammonium compound are used to achieve long-lasting antimicrobial benefits, then the duration of antimicrobial action is improved, but the toxicity increases and cleaning efficacy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical structure parameter of the quaternary ammonium compound from conventional dialkyldimethylammonium to alkyldimethylbenzylammonium. This structural modification allows achieving the same or better antimicrobial duration at lower concentrations, thereby reducing toxicity while maintaining efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a specific benzyl group substitution at the alpha position of the quaternary ammonium compound, creating a localized structural feature that enhances microbial cell wall interaction. This local structural improvement increases biocidal efficiency per unit concentration, allowing reduced overall dosage and lower toxicity.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If high levels of quaternary ammonium compound are used to achieve long-lasting antimicrobial benefits, then the duration of antimicrobial action is improved, but the cleaning efficacy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the quaternary ammonium compound structure to alkyldimethylbenzylammonium with specific alkyl chain lengths (C12-C16), which optimizes the balance between antimicrobial persistence and cleaning performance. The modified structure provides sufficient residual activity at low concentrations without interfering with soil removal mechanisms.
3Reliability
If conventional quaternary ammonium compounds are used, then antimicrobial properties are achieved, but sticky/tacky feel and poor shine are left on surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the quaternary ammonium compound to alkyldimethylbenzylammonium with optimized alkyl chain lengths (C12-C16). This parameter modification reduces excessive film-forming tendency while maintaining antimicrobial reliability, resulting in better surface feel and shine without stickiness or tackiness.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If relatively high levels of polymer are used to achieve long-lasting antimicrobial benefits, then the duration of antimicrobial action is improved, but surface residue increases and cleaning ability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the active ingredient structure to alkyldimethylbenzylammonium compound, which provides enhanced antimicrobial persistence at lower concentrations. This reduces the need for high levels of polymer carriers, thereby minimizing surface residue buildup while maintaining long-lasting protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite formulation combining alkyldimethylbenzylammonium compound with specific surfactants and optional polymers. This composite approach allows using minimal polymer (0-0.5%) to achieve long-lasting antimicrobial action without the residue problems associated with high polymer formulations.
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 residual biocidal protection for at least 24 hours with improved shine and cleaning efficacy, reducing toxicity and surface residue, while maintaining effective microbial reduction.
Implementation Method 1
an alkyldimethylbenzylammonium compound... provides residual biocidal properties... provides strong biocidal properties to the treated surface
Implementation Method 2
comprises from about 0.01% to about 1.5%... of a surfactant... judicious selection of surfactant... provides good cleaning and good shine
Implementation Method 3
provides residual biocidal properties... stable on storage... provides strong biocidal properties to the treated surface
Data Source
AI summary
An aqueous antimicrobial composition having from about 0.08% to about 0.8% by weight of the composition of an alkyldimethylbenzylammonium compound; from about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight of the composition of a surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyldimethylamine oxide, alkyldi(hydroxyethyl)amine oxide, alkylpolyglucoside, alkylbetaine, and a mixture thereof wherein the average alkyl chain length of the surfactant is less than 12 carbon atoms; from 0 to about 0.5% by weight of the composition of a polymer; at least 80% by weight of the composition of water; wherein the composition is substantially free of dialkyldimethylammonium compound.