Solvent-Free Metal Complexes via Mechanochemistry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for synthesizing metal complexes of macrocycles, isoprenoids, and linear tetrapyrroles often require harsh conditions, solvents, and result in unstable products prone to discoloration, limiting their industrial and cosmetic applications.
Innovation Solution
A mechanochemical process involving grinding or milling of macrocycles, isoprenoids, and linear tetrapyrroles with metal alkoxides under solvent-free conditions to form stable, colored metal complexes with enhanced stability and amphiphilic properties, suitable for use in sunscreens, hair dyes, and other applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional synthesis methods are used to produce metal complexes of macrocycles, isoprenoids, and linear tetrapyrroles, then the synthesis can proceed under standard conditions, but the products are unstable and prone to discoloration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the synthesis conditions from conventional solution-based methods to mechanochemical methods using ball milling. This changes the physical state of reactants from dissolved to solid-state, alters the energy input method from thermal to mechanical, and modifies the reaction environment from solvent-rich to solvent-free or minimal solvent conditions. These parameter changes result in improved product stability and reduced discoloration while maintaining ease of manufacture through a scalable process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If solvent-free mechanochemistry is used to synthesize metal complexes, then environmental impact is reduced and product stability is improved, but the synthesis process requires specialized equipment and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing the conventional chemical synthesis approach (using solvents and chemical reagents) with a mechanochemical approach (using mechanical energy from ball milling). This substitution eliminates or minimizes the need for harmful solvents and reagents, reducing environmental impact. The mechanical energy from ball milling drives the reaction in a solvent-free or minimal solvent environment, producing stable metal complexes with reduced discoloration while using relatively simple equipment.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanochemical synthesis is used to produce metal complexes, then high yield and homogeneity are achieved, but the process requires intensive mechanical energy input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through the ball milling process, where balls are repeatedly lifted and dropped onto the reactants in a cyclic manner. This periodic mechanical impact provides intensive energy input during the milling cycles, ensuring thorough mixing and reaction to achieve high yield and homogeneous metal complexes. The periodic nature of the ball milling allows for controlled energy input while maintaining product quality.
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 process produces highly stable and homogenous metal complexes with improved UV protection and amphiphilic properties, suitable for various applications, including sunscreens and hair dyes, while avoiding the use of harsh solvents and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
A mechanochemical process involving grinding or milling of macrocycles, isoprenoids, and linear tetrapyrroles with metal alkoxides under solvent-free conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Metal complexes of macrocycles and/or isoprenoids and/or linear tetrapyrroles by mechanochemistry (grinding or milling), preparation method thereof, sunscreen/concealer/UV absorber thereof, self-assembled coating material thereof, superamphiphilic material or surfaces thereof, hair dyeing thereof and other uses thereof. Converting biomass, including products from its own process-line wastes, into high value products such as biofuel, bioplastics and biochemicals in an attempt to replace oil consumption has become nowadays a challenge for innovation. In one embodiment of the present invention, a novel product obtained from the solvent-free mechanochemical reaction (grinding and milling) of biomass and a metal alkoxide is produced. In one embodiment of the present invention, Spirulina biomass, comprising macrocycles (chlorophyll) and isoprenoids (P-carotene) and linear tetrapyrroles (phycobilins attached to proteins), is ground or milled together with a metal alkoxide to produce a stable colored material.