MCT Silica Solid Fuel for Wind-Resistant Combustion
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for lightweight, multifunctional equipment for outdoor activities and camping that can provide both food and a combustible source of heat or light, without being liquid, and that can be used in confined spaces without producing soot or being extinguished by wind.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising 70% to 96% by weight of medium-chain triacylglycerols (MCTs) and 3% to 30% by weight of silica, optionally with a thickener and additives, which can be ignited to produce a soot-free flame that is not extinguished by blowing, making it suitable for use as a foodstuff and a combustible material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a composition is designed to be both edible and combustible, then it can serve dual purposes as food and heat source, but it becomes difficult to achieve reliable combustion properties while maintaining edibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines medium-chain triacylglycerols (edible component) and silica (combustible component) into a single homogeneous composition that maintains both edibility and combustibility. The silica is dispersed throughout the MCT matrix to create a unified material that can function as both food supplement and reliable fuel source.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite material consisting of organic MCT molecules and inorganic silica particles. This composite structure leverages the energy-dense properties of MCTs for metabolism and the high-temperature stability of silica for sustained combustion, achieving reliable dual functionality.
2Ease of operation
If liquid MCT oils are used for easy consumption, then they are readily absorbable, but they cannot be used as stable combustible material without special containment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of MCT from liquid to solid by incorporating silica. The silica network provides structural support that enables the composition to maintain solid form at room temperature, improving combustion stability while the MCT component remains bioavailable for nutritional purposes.
3Temperature
If conventional fuels are used for outdoor activities, then they provide reliable heat, but they produce soot and require special equipment for safe use in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The silica component promotes complete combustion of the MCT fuel by facilitating oxygen access and distribution throughout the burning material. This accelerated oxidation process converts carbon to carbon dioxide rather than soot particles, enabling clean-burning fuel that is safe for use in tents and confined outdoor spaces.
4Weight of moving object
If lightweight equipment is used for outdoor activities, then portability is improved, but the equipment cannot provide sufficient heat or light without additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fuel composition that can serve multiple functions: nutritional supplement, heat source, and light source. By combining MCTs and silica in specific ratios, the composition provides sustained combustion that generates both thermal energy and visible light, eliminating the need for separate food supplies and camping stove equipment.
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 burns completely and consistently, providing a reliable source of light and heat that can be used in outdoor activities and therapeutic nutrition, without the need for special equipment or protection from wind, and it is easy to use and pleasant for patients and medical staff.
Implementation Method 1
The composition burns completely and consistently, providing a reliable source of light and heat
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a combustible and edible composition comprising medium-chain triacylglycerols and silica, wherein the composition is in one embodiment a solid shaped body. The invention further relates to the use of a composition or of a solid shaped body as an item of equipment for outdoor activities, camping, sports activities, and/or in a diet.