Foamable Cellulose-Nanoclay Composition for Ember Gap Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire retardant coatings are ineffective in preventing the spread of fire from burning embers that can enter structural gaps, posing a risk to structures even at a distance from the fire front.
Innovation Solution
A foamable liquid composition comprising cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, nanoclay, and alkylated cellulose surfactants, which when foamed, forms stable foams that protect structural gaps from ember ingress and maintain structural integrity even under thermal stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fire retardant coatings are used on structures, then some protection against fire is provided, but burning embers can still enter through structural gaps and cause fire spread
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different protective measures to different locations: fire retardant coatings on structural surfaces and foamable composition in structural gaps. This localized differentiation addresses the specific vulnerability of gaps to ember ingress while maintaining overall fire protection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The foamable composition acts as an intermediary substance filling structural gaps, creating a physical barrier that prevents burning embers from reaching combustible materials within gaps, thereby eliminating the fire spread pathway.
2Reliability
If foamable composition is applied to fill structural gaps, then protection against ember ingress is achieved, but the composition must maintain stability and resist thermal degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The foamable composition uses a composite system combining cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, and alkylated cellulose surfactants. This composite structure provides both gap-filling protection and thermal stability, as the cellulose-based materials maintain structural integrity under thermal stress while the surfactant ensures foam stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies controlled ranges for composition parameters (cellulose nanocrystals 0.5-4 wt%, cellulose nanofibrils 0.5-4 wt%, alkylated cellulose surfactant 0.1-3 wt%) to optimize both protection effectiveness and thermal stability. These parameter controls ensure the foam maintains its protective function while resisting thermal degradation.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If stable foam is formed to protect structural gaps, then long-term protection is provided, but water loss must be minimized to maintain foam integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The alkylated cellulose surfactant in the foamable composition provides self-stabilizing properties to the foam structure. It reduces surface tension and prevents excessive water evaporation and drainage, allowing the foam to maintain its protective function over extended periods without external intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the surfactant concentration (0.1-3 wt%) to optimize foam stability and water retention. This parameter control ensures the foam maintains adequate water content for long-term protection while preventing excessive water loss that would compromise foam integrity.
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 foams provide effective protection against ember-induced fire spread by maintaining structural integrity and reducing water loss, with long-term stability and resistance to thermal degradation.
Implementation Method 1
about 0.1 wt. % to about 3 wt. % of one or more surfactants; wherein the one or more surfactants comprise at least one alkylated cellulose
Implementation Method 2
A foamable liquid composition comprising cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, nanoclay, and surfactant... when foamed, forms stable foams
Implementation Method 3
a) 0.5 wt. % to about 4 wt. % of one or both of cellulose nanocrystals and cellulose nanofibrils; b) about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. % of one or more nanoclays
Data Source
AI summary
Foamable liquid compositions containing aqueous dispersions of cellulose nanocrystals and/or cellulose nanofibrils, nanoclay and surfactant are provided. The foamable liquid compositions provide stable foams useful in the protection of structures against the spread of fire.