Macromolecular Network Formation Rate Control via Segmented Reactants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Macromolecular networks formed through single species curing have an untailorable network formation rate, leading to increased processing costs and inferior products due to both functionalities being on the same backbone, limiting control over network formation.
Innovation Solution
Using two species of reactants, each with one functionality, allows for controlled stoichiometric adjustments, resulting in decreased processing costs and superior products by regulating the network formation rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single species curing is used with both functionalities on the same backbone, then the process is simple, but the network formation rate becomes untailorable and processing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single functionality into two separate reactant species, where each species carries one functionality. This segmentation allows independent control of each functional group's concentration, enabling tailorable network formation rates while maintaining process simplicity through straightforward stoichiometric adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the key parameter from fixed single-species concentration to adjustable two-species stoichiometry. By varying the ratio and concentrations of the two reactant species, the network formation rate can be precisely controlled to match processing requirements, resolving the contradiction between process simplicity and rate control.
2Ease of operation
If single species curing is used, then the process is easier to operate, but the product quality deteriorates due to inferior macromolecular networks
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the functionality into two separate reactant species, the patent enables precise control over network formation while keeping the operation simple through straightforward mixing and stoichiometric adjustments. This segmentation allows optimization of network structure without complicating the operational procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustable stoichiometric parameters (ratios of the two reactant species) that enable precise control of network formation characteristics. This parameter change improves manufacturing precision while maintaining ease of operation, as the adjustments are made through simple compositional changes rather than complex process modifications.
3Device complexity
If both functionalities are on the same backbone, then the reactant structure is simple, but the network formation rate cannot be controlled leading to increased processing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the functionality into two separate reactant species, each carrying one functionality. This segmentation provides a stoichiometric control lever that enables precise adjustment of network formation rate, thereby reducing processing costs through optimized manufacturing control while keeping the individual reactant structures relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing from a fixed single-species structure to a variable two-species stoichiometric system, the patent enables control over network formation rate. This parameter change reduces processing costs by allowing optimization of curing conditions and timing, despite the slightly increased complexity of using two reactant species.
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 approach enables cost reduction and improves product quality by providing adjustable control over macromolecular network formation, leading to more efficient processing and superior material production.
Implementation Method 1
reacting one or more polymers and one or more silane crosslinking agents... (i) a backbone that comprises silicon; and (ii) reactive groups, each of said reactive groups being independently selected from carbon carbon double; or carbon carbon triple bonds
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to processes for making macromolecular networks, macromolecular networks made by such processes, and methods of using such macromolecular networks to make materials such as ceramics. The macromolecular network's formation rate is controlled by using two species of reactants each of which comprised one functionality. This results in decreased macromolecular network processing costs and superior products.