Biodegradable three-dimensional network structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biodegradable network structures lack both excellent compression durability and high compression recovery after heat compression.

Innovation Solution

A biodegradable three-dimensional network structure composed of polybutylene adipate terephthalate resin fibers with specific molecular weight, density, thickness, and crystalline melting enthalpy, featuring a three-dimensional random looped shape and hollow cross-section, enhances compression durability and recovery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If crosslinking agents are used to improve the mechanical strength of biodegradable polymers, then the polymer becomes too rigid and loses its elasticity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidelasticity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the chemical parameters of crosslinking by using genipin instead of traditional crosslinking agents, controlling the crosslinking degree and network density to achieve optimal balance between strength and elasticity. The crosslinking density is adjusted through concentration and reaction conditions to prevent excessive rigidity while maintaining mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite structure by combining biodegradable polymer chains with genipin crosslinking agents to form a three-dimensional network. This composite approach integrates the biodegradability of natural polymers with the structural integrity provided by controlled crosslinking, achieving both strength and flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If the polymer network is made more dense to improve mechanical properties, then the material becomes less biodegradable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical propertiesVSAvoidbiodegradability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the crosslinking parameters to achieve a balanced network density that maintains mechanical strength while preserving biodegradability. By controlling crosslinking concentration and using biocompatible genipin crosslinking agents, the material achieves optimal balance between structural integrity and degradation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a three-dimensional network structure with controlled porosity that allows degradation products to diffuse out while maintaining mechanical strength. The network architecture provides pathways for enzymatic attack and product release, ensuring biodegradability even with crosslinking present.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Productivity

If traditional crosslinking agents are used to achieve rapid crosslinking, then the crosslinking process is fast but the mechanical strength is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecrosslinking speedVSAvoidmechanical strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses genipin as a biodegradable crosslinking agent that provides sufficient crosslinking strength for temporary applications. The crosslinked structure maintains mechanical strength during the required period and then degrades naturally, eliminating the need for permanent strong crosslinking agents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes crosslinking reaction parameters including genipin concentration, pH, and temperature to achieve rapid crosslinking with adequate mechanical strength. The crosslinking degree is controlled to match the specific application requirements rather than maximizing strength indefinitely.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 structure provides improved compression durability and high compression recovery, suitable for applications requiring cushioning and impact absorption.

Implementation Method 1

crosslinking agents such as genipin have been used to crosslink the polymer chains

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

The polymers and their degradation products are eliminated from the body through hydrolysis and enzymatic breakdown

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydrolysis: Hydrolysis

Data Source

PatentEP4317567B1Biodegradable three-dimensional network structure
Publication Date: 2026.04.29 TOYOBO MC CORP
  • EP4317567B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4317567B1 patent drawing
  • EP4317567B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An object of the present invention is to provide a biodegradable three-dimensional network structure having excellent compression durability and high compression recovery after heat compression. The biodegradable three-dimensional network structure includes a linear fiber including a polybutylene adipate terephthalate resin having a weight average molecular weight of 35000 or more, wherein the biodegradable three-dimensional network structure has an apparent density of from 0.005 g/cm3 to 0.30 g/cm3 and a thickness of from 10 mm to 100 mm, and the linear fiber has a fiber diameter of from 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm and a crystalline melting enthalpy of 16 J/g or more.