Inverse Emulsion Mixing of Cationic Polymers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The incompatibility of cationic polymers used in detergent and cosmetic formulations leads to issues such as dephasing, flocculation, or precipitation when mixed directly, making their handling and incorporation into compositions challenging, especially due to differences in chemistry and high molecular masses resulting in high apparent viscosity.
Innovation Solution
A process involving the formation of an inverse emulsion by mixing an aqueous solution of water-soluble copolymer A with an inverse emulsion of water-soluble copolymer B, reducing viscosity and facilitating handling, while maintaining performance by adjusting the mass ratio and concentration of copolymers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If two cationic polymers are directly mixed in aqueous solution, then both polymers can be incorporated into the formulation, but incompatibility phenomena (dephasing, flocculation, precipitation) occur due to chemical differences and high molecular masses
Solution Approach 1:
The formulation process is segmented into distinct stages: first preparing individual polymer solutions separately, then incorporating them into the final formulation at different times or in different locations. This avoids direct mixing of incompatible cationic polymers while still allowing both to be incorporated into the final product.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary approach is used where polymers are pre-dissolved in separate aqueous solutions before incorporation. The separate preparation acts as an intermediary step that prevents direct interaction between incompatible polymers, thereby maintaining stability while enabling incorporation of both substances.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two cationic polymers are used in the formulation, then diverse functions (thickening, deposition aid, conditioning) can be achieved, but handling and dosing become difficult due to high apparent viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The handling process is segmented by preparing polymer solutions in separate containers beforehand. This allows each polymer solution to be handled independently with appropriate equipment, avoiding the need to handle highly viscous mixed polymer formulations while still achieving diverse functions in the final product.
Solution Approach 2:
The concentration and physical state parameters are managed by preparing polymers as separate aqueous solutions with controlled viscosities. This parameter control enables easier handling and dosing compared to mixed high-viscosity formulations, while maintaining the ability to achieve diverse functions through selective polymer selection.
3Manufacturing precision
If cationic polymers are prepared independently and then mixed, then each polymer can be optimized for its specific function, but the mixing process requires separate incorporation steps increasing process complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into independent polymer preparation steps followed by separate incorporation steps. This allows each polymer to be optimized independently during preparation while using standardized incorporation procedures, balancing customization with process simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal incorporation procedure is used for adding different pre-prepared polymer solutions to formulations. This multi-functional approach allows the same basic process to handle various polymer types and functions, reducing overall process complexity despite the need for separate polymer optimizations.
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 process reduces the viscosity of polymer compositions, simplifies handling and transportation, and enhances performance by creating stable inverse emulsions that offer better softening properties compared to separate addition, with energy savings and improved compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
forming an inverse emulsion by mixing an aqueous solution of water-soluble copolymer A with an inverse emulsion of water-soluble copolymer B
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a process for preparing an inverse emulsion comprising mixing an aqueous solution comprising a water-soluble (co)polymer A synthesized from at least one cationic monomer and an inverse EMI 2 emulsion comprising a water-soluble (co)polymer B synthesized from at least one cationic monomer, optionally followed by distillation.This invention also relates to the inverse emulsion thus obtained, a detergent or cosmetic or softening composition comprising such an inverse emulsion, as well as the use of such an inverse emulsion to improve the softening properties of a fabric softening composition.