Cationic Polymer Thickener for Fabric Softener Deposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thickeners for fabric softeners and detergents lack optimal deposition properties, shear thinning capabilities, and stability, leading to inefficiencies in active ingredient distribution and residue removal during washing processes.
Innovation Solution
A thickener composition containing a cationic polymer produced by polymerizing water-soluble ethylenically unsaturated monomers, associative monomers, and an activator, with a ratio of activator to cationic polymer greater than 10:100, which enhances deposition, shear thinning, and stability, and allows for spontaneous phase inversion upon dilution without energy input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional thickeners are used in fabric softeners and detergents, then basic thickening function is provided, but deposition properties, shear thinning capabilities, and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite polymer system comprising both associative thickeners (providing structural stability and shear thinning) and non-associative cationic polymers (providing deposition and softening). This combination allows each component to contribute its specific functional properties, resolving the contradiction between stability and deposition performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific parameters including the ratio of associative to non-associative polymer (0.2 to 5.0 by weight), polymer concentration (0.01 to 5.0% by weight), and molecular weight characteristics. These parameter adjustments enable simultaneous achievement of stability, shear thinning, and improved deposition properties.
2Stability of the object's composition
If high polymer concentration is used to improve thickening and stability, then viscosity increases, but energy input is required for mixing and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The associative thickeners exhibit self-organizing properties where polymer chains spontaneously form micellar structures and networks in aqueous solution without requiring external energy input. This self-assembly mechanism provides thickening and stability while minimizing mixing energy requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the phase behavior of associative polymers that undergo spontaneous micellization and network formation at specific concentration thresholds. This phase transition mechanism enables effective thickening at low concentrations, reducing the energy required for mixing and processing.
3Reliability
If cross-linkers are used to enhance polymer structure and stability, then thickening performance improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes the inherent self-crosslinking capability of associative polymers through hydrophobic interactions and micellar network formation. This eliminates the need for additional cross-linker chemicals and complex cross-linking process steps, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural stability.
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 thickener composition significantly improves the deposition of active ingredients, reduces re-soiling, and provides effective shear thinning and stability, ensuring efficient use and residue-free washing performance.
Implementation Method 1
spontaneous phase inversion upon dilution without energy input
Implementation Method 2
provides effective shear thinning
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a thickener containing i) at least one cationic polymer that can be produced by polymerisation of a) at least one water-soluble ethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising at least one cationic monomer, optionally at least one anionic monomer and/or optionally at least one nonionic monomer, b) at least one ethylenically unsaturated associative monomer, c) optionally at least one cross-linker, d) optionally at least one chain transfer agent, ii) at least one activator, the ratio of activator to cationic polymer being > 10 to 100 [wt%/wt%].