Associative Polymers for Non-Polar Flow and Mist Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in controlling the physical and chemical properties of non-polar compositions, particularly in flows, such as mist, drag, and combustion, in applications like hydrocarbon fuels and inks, where properties like mist and drop breakup are difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
The use of associative polymers with non-polar backbones and functional groups that undergo associative interactions with an association constant less than covalent bonds, allowing for controlled rheological properties and drag reduction, mist control, and lubrication through framing and capping associative polymers with specific molecular weights and concentrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional additives are used in non-polar compositions, then basic flow properties are maintained, but control of rheological properties and drag reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the molecular weight, concentration, and associative interaction strength of polymer additives to precisely control rheological properties. By adjusting these parameters, the composition achieves desired drag reduction and flow characteristics while maintaining reliability across different flow conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining associative polymers with specific functional groups into non-polar compositions. This composite approach enables simultaneous control of multiple properties including drag reduction, mist suppression, and rheological behavior that cannot be achieved with conventional single-component additives.
2Ease of operation
If polymer concentration is increased to improve drag reduction, then flow control improves, but shear degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the molecular weight parameter of the associative polymer to achieve maximum drag reduction at lower concentrations. By selecting specific molecular weight ranges and associative interaction strengths, the composition reduces drag effectively while minimizing shear degradation and maintaining polymer stability during routine handling.
3Ease of operation
If strong associative interactions are used to control rheology, then flow control improves, but mist formation control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully adjusts the associative interaction strength parameter to achieve an optimal balance. By controlling the association constant and functional group density, the composition maintains sufficient rheological control while preventing excessive droplet coalescence that would lead to mist formation. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction between flow control and mist suppression.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are associative polymers capable of controlling a physical and/or chemical property of non-polar compositions that can be used when the non-polar composition is in a flow, and related compositions, methods and systems. Associative polymers herein described have a non-polar backbone with a longest span having a molecular weight that remains substantially unchanged under the flow conditions and functional groups presented at ends of the non-polar backbone, with a number of the functional groups presented at the ends of the non-polar backbone formed by associative functional groups capable of undergoing an associative interaction with another associative functional group with an association constant (k) such that the strength of each associative interaction is less than the strength of a covalent bond between atoms and in particular less than the strength of a covalent bond between backbone atoms.