Disinfectant Matrix with Silane Network for Lasting Germ Killing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current disinfectants effectively kill pathogens but lack lasting effectiveness, allowing re-colonization of surfaces and do not provide an easy-to-clean surface, leading to increased cleaning times and microbial growth in high-risk areas due to inadequate surface sealing.
Innovation Solution
A disinfectant matrix formed using benzalkonium chloride and methyltriethoxysilane (MTEOS) via sol-gel chemistry, creating a 'nano-sponge' that releases antimicrobial components over time, providing sustained germ-killing properties and a hydrophobic surface for easy cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional disinfectants are used to kill pathogens, then immediate germ-killing effect is achieved, but the surface allows re-colonization after evaporation and lacks lasting effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a silane-based primer coating to the surface before applying the disinfectant. This primer creates a binding layer that enables the disinfectant to adhere to the surface and be released over time, rather than simply evaporating. The preliminary action of applying the silane layer transforms the surface to accept and retain the disinfectant, providing lasting antimicrobial protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The silane-based coating acts as an intermediary between the surface and the disinfectant. It binds to the surface through siloxane bonds and provides binding groups for the disinfectant molecules. This intermediary layer allows the disinfectant to be retained on the surface and released continuously, extending its duration of action while maintaining immediate germ-killing effectiveness.
2Productivity
If cleaning time is reduced for cost reasons, then operational efficiency improves, but sufficient cleaning cannot take place and microorganisms can grow
Solution Approach 1:
The treated surface provides self-disinfection through the controlled release of antimicrobial agents from the silane-based coating. The surface actively kills microorganisms that attempt to colonize it, reducing the need for frequent manual cleaning interventions. This self-service mechanism maintains surface hygiene while allowing longer intervals between cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The silane-based coating provides continuous antimicrobial protection by steadily releasing disinfectant molecules over time. This continuous action ensures that the surface remains hygienic without requiring repeated intensive cleaning, thereby improving productivity while maintaining reliability of surface hygiene.
3Ease of operation
If conventional disinfectants are applied, then germs are killed according to specifications, but the surface is not sealed and does not become easier to clean
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite silane-based coating system that combines multiple functional components: silane primers for surface bonding, crosslinking agents for network formation, and hydrophobic modifiers for water repellency. This composite material structure provides both surface sealing and easy-to-clean properties while maintaining compatibility with the disinfectant's germ-killing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The silane-based coating changes the surface parameters by creating a hydrophobic, low-energy surface through crosslinked siloxane networks. This parameter change in surface energy and chemistry reduces adhesion of contaminants and makes the surface easier to clean, while the coating's porosity and bonding characteristics provide sealing functionality.
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
Achieves immediate germ killing with a prolonged antimicrobial effect lasting up to 10 days, reducing cleaning effort by 50% and maintaining surface hygiene, demonstrated against various microorganisms and viruses without requiring activation energy.
Implementation Method 1
A disinfectant matrix formed using benzalkonium chloride and methyltriethoxysilane (MTEOS) via sol-gel chemistry
Implementation Method 2
methyltriethoxysilane (MTEOS) via sol-gel chemistry, creating a 'nano-sponge' that releases antimicrobial components over time
Implementation Method 3
creates an easy-to-clean surface, which reduces the cleaning effort by up to 50%
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a disinfectant with lasting germ-killing properties, to a method for producing the disinfectant and to the use thereof. In order to create a novel disinfectant with acute and lasting germ-killing properties, the invention provides that agents for forming a matrix, which releases disinfecting and/or lasting antimicrobially acting constituents, are provided during or after applying the disinfectant to an object. In particular, it is ensured that an inorganic/organic network former is added to a solution mixture consisting of water and of a germ-killing substance. According to the invention, it can be demonstrated that different surfaces, which are used in the following fields (metal, ceramic, textiles, plastics), can be coated with a temporary coating system. Three aims are fulfilled by this coating process. Firstly, all germs are immediately killed by a disinfectant. Secondly, an easy to clean surface, from which soilings are easier to remove, is established on the surface. Thirdly, a biocidal surface, which kills germs, viruses and fungi over an extended period of time, simultaneously emerges.