Composition comprising cultivated microalgae for use in coloring processes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for using microalgae in commercial applications, such as coloring and cosmetics, face challenges in standardizing their growth and utilization of outdoor sunlight for energy, and there is a need for effective methods to incorporate microalgae into surface coloring processes like fabrics and papers.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising cultivated microalgae, a mordant, and additives like enzymes, dye binders, and thickening agents is used for coloring surfaces like paper, fabrics, and fibers, with controlled processes involving cationization and heat treatment to fix the color.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If microalgae are used for coloring surfaces, then natural and environmentally friendly coloring is achieved, but the standardization of growth and utilization of outdoor sunlight for energy is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling culture conditions (temperature, pH, nutrients, light exposure) to standardize microalgae growth and pigment production. This ensures consistent coloring results while maintaining the ability to adapt to different outdoor sunlight conditions for energy utilization.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If cultivated microalgae are used for coloring fabrics and papers, then effective and long-lasting colors are achieved, but additional processing steps and chemicals are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-treating fabrics with mordants before applying microalgae pigment, and using enzymes to prepare the microalgae biomass. These preliminary steps ensure long-lasting colors while streamlining the overall processing sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses mordants as intermediary substances that facilitate the bonding between microalgae pigment and fabric fibers. This intermediary approach ensures durable color fastness while maintaining a relatively simple processing workflow.
3Quantity of substance
If microalgae are cultivated for pigment production, then natural dyes are obtained, but the efficiency of outdoor sunlight utilization needs improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a cultivation system that simultaneously optimizes for both pigment production and sunlight energy utilization. The same culture conditions and reactor design serve dual purposes: maximizing pigment yield while efficiently converting solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
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 provides stable and effective coloring of various materials, including natural and synthetic fibers, with the ability to produce consistent and long-lasting colors, as demonstrated by the experiments with different microalgae species and mordant combinations.
Implementation Method 1
Microalgae are microscopic unicellular organisms capable to convert solar energy to chemical energy via photosynthesis
Implementation Method 2
A composition comprising cultivated microalgae, a mordant, and at least one additive selected from at least one enzyme, at least one dye binder, and at least one thickening agent
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention is directed to composition for use in the process of coloring surfaces, such as fabrics, comprising cultivated microalgae, processes for its preparation and use thereof.