Triphenylmethane Dye Color Stability in Dishwashing Detergents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic dishwashing detergents with triphenylmethane dyes used in transparent packaging are not color-stable under UV radiation, leading to consumer perception of reduced usability due to discoloration.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning agent formulation comprising triphenylmethane dyes, citrates, aminocarboxylate builders, and polymers with sulfonic acid groups, with a pH of 10 to 13, and separate packaging for each component to maintain color stability during storage and exposure to UV radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If triphenylmethane dyes are used in transparent packaging for cleaning agents, then the packaging is transparent and visually appealing, but the dye decolorizes under UV radiation leading to color instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces UV filters as intermediary substances that absorb or block UV radiation before it reaches the dye molecules. These filters act as a protective layer between the UV light and the triphenylmethane dye, preventing photodegradation while allowing the packaging to remain transparent. The filter compounds are specifically selected to absorb UV wavelengths without compromising the visual appeal or transparency of the packaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite formulation by combining triphenylmethane dyes with UV filter compounds and other stabilizing agents in a single cleaning agent composition. This composite approach allows the dye to provide visual appeal while the UV filters and stabilizers work synergistically to protect against decolorization. The composite material maintains both the aesthetic quality and UV resistance required for long-term storage stability.
2Ease of manufacture
If dyes are added to cleaning agents to improve visual appeal, then consumers perceive the product as more attractive, but the dyes fade under UV exposure reducing perceived usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary protective measures by incorporating UV filters and stabilizing agents into the cleaning agent formulation before the product is packaged and exposed to UV radiation. This preliminary action prevents the dye from undergoing photodegradation during storage and transport, ensuring that the color remains stable and the product maintains its visual appeal throughout the intended shelf life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the chemical parameters of the dye formulation by adjusting the concentration of UV filters, stabilizing agents, and dye molecules. By optimizing these parameters, the formulation achieves the right balance between visual appeal and UV resistance. The specific concentrations are determined to ensure adequate protection against fading while maintaining the desired color intensity and aesthetic quality.
3Device complexity
If cleaning agents are stored in transparent containers for convenience, then the containers are simple and cost-effective, but the dyes are exposed to UV light causing discoloration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces UV filter compounds as intermediary substances that are dissolved in the cleaning agent formulation itself. These filters act as a protective mechanism within the liquid formulation, absorbing UV radiation before it can reach and degrade the dye molecules. This approach maintains the simplicity of transparent packaging while providing internal UV protection through the chemical composition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive UV filter compounds and stabilizing agents that can be easily incorporated into the cleaning agent formulation. These additives are cost-effective and provide sufficient protection during the product's shelf life. The formulation uses affordable materials that deliver adequate UV protection without significantly increasing manufacturing costs, making the solution economically viable for mass-market products.
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 formulation ensures good cleaning performance and long-term color stability, preventing undesirable color changes under UV exposure, thus enhancing consumer perception and product usability.
Implementation Method 1
the dyes used in dishwashing detergents must be food-safe. Unfortunately, these dyes are often not colorfast when the cleaning products are exposed to UV radiation, including sunlight; they can fade significantly, sometimes even completely, under UV exposure
Implementation Method 2
a liquid (20°C) cleaning agent preparation A comprising i) a dye selected from the class of triphenylmethanes, ii) 4 to 40 wt.％ citrates, iii) aminocarboxylate builders in an amount of less than 4.5 wt.％, preferably less than 2.5 wt.％, in particular less than 0.1 wt.％; wherein the agent has a pH of 10 to 13, preferably 10.5 to 12.5, in particular 11 to 12
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to cleaning agents, preferably machine dishwashing detergents with a pH value of 10 to 13, comprising a dye selected from the class of triphenylmethanes and builder(s).