Halogen-Free Barrier Films for Ostomy Odor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current barrier films used in medical applications, particularly in ostomy devices, face challenges in maintaining effective odor blocking properties while being flexible and recyclable, as they often contain halogens that are difficult and costly to recycle and may compromise other film characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A halogen-free multilayer barrier film comprising a semi-crystalline cyclic olefin copolymer with specific melting and glass transition temperatures, combined with ethylene vinyl alcohol and antimicrobial layers, which provides superior odor blocking capabilities without compromising flexibility or recyclability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If halogen-containing materials like PVDC are used in barrier films, then odor blocking properties are improved, but recyclability deteriorates and disposal costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes halogen-containing materials (PVDC) from the barrier film composition entirely, extracting the problematic substance while replacing it with halogen-free alternatives like polyolefin elastomers and copolymers that provide similar odor blocking properties without compromising recyclability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures combining multiple halogen-free polymers (polyolefin elastomer, copolymer, and optionally polyvinylidene fluoride) in specific weight ratios to achieve the odor blocking performance previously provided by PVDC, while maintaining compatibility with recycling processes
2Object-affected harmful factors
If amorphous cyclic olefin copolymers are used to block odors, then odor blocking properties are improved, but film flexibility and strength deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by selecting specific polyolefin elastomers with particular glass transition temperatures (below -50°C) and molecular weights, as well as copolymers with specific compositions, to achieve the optimal balance between odor blocking and mechanical properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material system combining polyolefin elastomer (providing flexibility and strength) with copolymer (providing odor blocking), where each component compensates for the weaknesses of the other, achieving superior overall performance compared to using amorphous COC alone
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 solution effectively reduces the transmission of odorous species, such as skatole and hydrogen sulfide, while maintaining film strength and flexibility, and allows for easier recycling, addressing the limitations of existing films.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-crystalline cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) having a melting temperature (Tm) of from about 70° C. to about 100° C., and a glass transition temperature (Tg) of from about −20° C. to about 32° C.
Implementation Method 2
a barrier layer including ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)
Implementation Method 3
an antimicrobial layer including at least one antimicrobial agent
Data Source
AI summary
Various polymeric barrier compositions are described which when formed into films, are useful in reducing transmission of odors. The films can be incorporated into a wide range of products such as multilayer barrier films used in medical applications and particularly in ostomy appliances. In certain versions, the films include semi-crystalline cyclic olefin copolymers.