Extended Chain Anionic Surfactants for Non-Trans Fat Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detergents face challenges in effectively and safely removing non-trans fats and fatty acids due to their high molecular weight, polyunsaturation, and tendency to polymerize, leading to difficulties in forming dispersions or bicontinuous structures, and pose fire risks during laundry processes.
Innovation Solution
A surfactant system comprising a synergistic combination of extended chain anionic surfactants with linkers like amine oxides or dioctyl sulfosuccinate, and a multiply charged cation such as Mg2+, which forms microemulsions at low temperatures, enabling efficient removal of non-trans fats and other oily soils without additional surfactants or alcohol components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional surfactants are used to remove non-trans fats, then cleaning ability is provided, but fire hazards increase due to polymerization heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the surfactant system by using extended chain anionic surfactants with specific molecular structures (C12-C18 alkyl chains with sulfate or sulfonate groups) that have lower reactivity toward non-trans fat polymerization. This parameter change maintains cleaning effectiveness while reducing the heat of polymerization that causes fire hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite surfactant system combining extended chain anionic surfactants with specific cations (such as magnesium, calcium, or zinc). This composite approach enhances cleaning performance through synergistic effects while the specific cation-surfactant interactions reduce the tendency for non-trans fat polymerization and associated fire risks.
2Stability of the object's composition
If short chain alcohols are added to solubilize oil phase, then homogeneity is improved, but flammability and VOC content increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes short chain alcohols from the formulation entirely, replacing them with extended chain anionic surfactants that provide sufficient solubilization capacity on their own. This extraction of the flammable component eliminates the associated fire hazards and VOC concerns while maintaining product homogeneity through the surfactant's emulsifying properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended chain anionic surfactant performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the primary cleaning agent, provides solubilization for the oil phase, ensures product homogeneity, and eliminates the need for separate flammable solvents. This multi-functionality replaces the traditional role of short chain alcohols without the associated hazards.
3Ease of manufacture
If NPEs are used as surfactants, then cleaning effectiveness is achieved, but environmental toxicity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts surfactants with biodegradable properties, extending the concept of environmental disposability. The extended chain anionic surfactants are designed to break down naturally in the environment, unlike persistent NPEs. This approach maintains cleaning effectiveness while ensuring the surfactant does not accumulate in the environment or food chain.
4Quantity of substance
If high molecular weight triglyceride oils are present, then non-trans fat content increases, but dispersion difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the surfactant system by using extended chain structures with optimal hydrophobic-hydrophilic balance. These surfactants have enhanced ability to interact with high molecular weight triglyceride oils, reducing the interfacial tension and facilitating dispersion despite the oil's high molecular weight and polyunsaturation.
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 surfactant system effectively removes non-trans fats and other oily soils, reducing the risk of laundry fires and polymerization, while maintaining stability across a wide temperature range, thus providing a safe and environmentally friendly cleaning solution.
Implementation Method 1
Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water by adsorbing at the liquid-gas interface. They also reduce the interfacial tension between oil and water by adsorbing at the liquid-liquid interface.
Implementation Method 2
A surfactant system comprising a synergistic combination of extended chain anionic surfactants with a linker and a multiply charged cation, such as Mg2+, which forms microemulsions with non-trans fats at low temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses synergistic combinations of surfactants blends and cleaning composition. In certain embodiments a surfactant system is disclosed which includes extended anionic surfactants, linker surfactants, and a multiply charged cation component. This system forms emulsions with, and can remove greasy and oily stains, even those comprised of non-trans fats. The compositions may be used alone, as a pre-spotter or other pre-treatment or as a part of a soft surface or hard surface cleaning composition.