Halogen-Releasing Compound Fluoropolymer Matrix Dissolution Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water treatment compositions for pools and spas, particularly those using halogen-releasing compounds like TCCA, experience rapid static dissolution, leading to high chlorine levels and low pH, which can damage vinyl liners and plumbing.
Innovation Solution
A water treatment composition comprising 50-99% particulate halogen-releasing compound, 1-10% sodium hexametaphosphate, 1-10% aluminum sulfate, 0.5-15% sulfate salt, and 0.75-2.0% particulate polytetrafluoroethylene polymer, forming a unitary structure that slows down static dissolution rates and extends the lifespan of the treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If TCCA is used as a sanitizer in pool and spa applications, then continuous dosing of chlorine is achieved, but high chlorine concentration and low pH are built up in the skimmer and plumbing leading to the pump
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (polymer coating or matrix material) that mediates between the TCCA sanitizer and the water environment. This intermediary controls the release rate of chlorine, preventing sudden buildup of high concentrations and extreme pH levels in the skimmer and plumbing, while still providing continuous dosing to the pool water.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the TCCA delivery system by using controlled-release formulations, encapsulation, or matrix-based delivery mechanisms. These parameter changes modify the dissolution and release characteristics of TCCA, transforming it from rapid release to controlled slow release, thereby preventing harmful concentration buildup while maintaining continuous sanitization.
2Productivity
If soluble salts are formulated with TCCA in the tablet, then the dissolution rate of TCCA increases, but the static dissolution rate becomes too high causing excessive chlorine buildup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform distribution of components within the tablet structure. Different regions of the tablet have different compositions - some areas contain TCCA while others contain soluble salts or polymer materials. This spatial differentiation allows controlled interaction between components, enabling moderate dissolution rates that prevent excessive chlorine buildup while still providing effective sanitization over time.
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 composition effectively controls static dissolution rates, maintaining lower chlorine levels and neutral pH, reducing damage to pool equipment and liners, while also reducing the frequency of replacements.
Implementation Method 1
a fluoropolymer in an amount of 0.1-10 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a water treatment composition, containing 50 - 99.9 wt% of particulate halogen-releasing compound; and 0.1 - 10 wt% of granular fluoropolymer, wherein all weight percentages are based on the total weight of the composition. The present invention is also directed to a water treatment composition, containing 50 - 99 wt% of particulate halogen-releasing compound; 1 - 10 wt% of aluminum sulfate; 0.5 - 15 wt% of a sulfate salt selected from the group consisting of copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, and combinations thereof; and 0.1 - 10 wt% of particulate polytetrafluoroethylene polymer, wherein all weight percentages are based on the total weight of the composition. One particular halogen-releasing compound is trichloroisocyanuric acid.