Electrostatic Carrier Particles for Uniform Active Agent Coating
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying active agents to inanimate substrates face challenges such as high loss rates due to leaching or interception by non-target organisms, and the difficulty in ensuring uniform application.
Innovation Solution
The use of carrier particles with an electrostatic surface charge, made from organic matter constituents, which adhere uniformly to the surface of inanimate substrates like fertiliser granules or animal feed pellets, effectively distributing active agents such as pesticides, biofertilisers, and probiotics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If active agents are applied directly to inanimate substrates, then the application process is simple, but high loss rates occur due to leaching or interception by non-target organisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces carrier particles as an intermediary between the active agent and the inanimate substrate. These particles carry the active agent and adhere to the substrate surface, preventing direct leaching and reducing interception by non-target organisms. The carrier particles act as a protective medium that releases the active agent gradually, thereby reducing loss while maintaining application simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If conventional methods are used to apply active agents, then the application process is straightforward, but uniformity of application is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by coating the inanimate substrate with carrier particles that are uniformly distributed across the surface. Each particle carries the active agent locally, ensuring consistent distribution. The electrostatic charge on the particles enables them to adhere evenly to the substrate, achieving uniform application while keeping the process straightforward.
3Reliability
If active agents are applied in higher quantities to compensate for loss, then effectiveness is maintained, but waste increases and environmental impact worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements recovery by using carrier particles that retain the active agent and prevent its loss through leaching or interception. The particles adhere to the substrate and release the active agent gradually, ensuring it remains available for the intended purpose. This reduces waste and environmental impact while maintaining effectiveness, as the active agent is not discarded prematurely.
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
This approach enhances the active life of the agents in the environment, allows for lesser amounts to be applied, and achieves a uniform coating for improved distribution, maintaining effectiveness while reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
carrier particles comprising at least an outer surface comprising an organic matter constituent, wherein the said active agent is combined within and/or adhered onto the surface of the carrier particles, the carrier particles a) being in dry, particulate form and carrying at least an electrostatic surface charge
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A product form comprises an inanimate substrate comprising i) an active agent; and ii) carrier particles including at least an outer surface comprising an organic matter constituent, wherein the said active agent is combined within and/or on the surface of the carrier particles, the carrier particles being a) in dry, particulate form and carrying at least an electrostatic surface charge, and b) being at least substantially uniformly distributed over the outer surface of the substrate.