Microbial Formulation Using Water-Absorbent Carrier for Viability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing microbial formulations for commercial use often damage sensitive microorganisms during drying, result in short shelf life, and are not suitable for suspension in water or mixing with chemical pesticides, limiting their application and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an aqueous suspension of viable microorganisms combined with a water-insoluble, water-absorbent substance, such as cellulose, to create a formulation with high microbial viability and extended shelf life, allowing for suspension in water and protection from chemical pesticides, while avoiding high temperatures and equipment-intensive processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional drying methods (convective drying, spray drying, fluidized beds, static heating) are used to dry microorganisms for commercial formulations, then the microorganisms can be preserved and stored, but the sensitive cells or spores are damaged and viability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the drying parameters by using low temperature conditions and controlled water activity reduction instead of high temperature convective drying. This allows preservation of microbial viability while achieving sufficient drying for shelf life extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (carrier material) that mediates the drying process. The carrier material absorbs excess moisture while protecting the microorganisms from direct exposure to harsh drying conditions, thus maintaining viability while enabling storage.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If microorganisms are formulated for commercial use, then they can be stored and distributed, but they cannot be suspended in water or mixed with chemical pesticides, limiting their application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal formulation system using carrier materials that provide multiple functions: they enable long-term storage, allow re-suspension in water, and permit mixing with chemical pesticides. This single formulation approach satisfies multiple application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses simple, inexpensive carrier materials (such as clays, silicas, or organic materials) that can be easily disposed of or replaced. These materials provide the necessary formulation functions without requiring complex or expensive components, enabling versatile applications.
3Reliability
If high levels of viable microorganisms are maintained in formulations, then biological efficacy is improved, but production becomes less efficient and more contamination-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by adding the carrier material and protective agents during the fermentation or immediately after harvesting, rather than attempting to protect microorganisms during subsequent processing. This preliminary protection maintains high viability throughout production and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs self-service mechanisms where the carrier material and formulation components automatically protect the microorganisms from contamination and damage during production, storage, and handling. The formulation system itself provides the protection without requiring additional complex intervention.
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 method provides formulations with high microbial activity, extended shelf life, and the ability to be used in various applications, including water-based delivery systems, while maintaining microbial viability and preventing growth of undesirable microorganisms, thus enhancing biological efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
combining the aqueous suspension with a water insoluble, water-absorbent substance under conditions effective to produce a formulation of viable microorganisms
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to formulations of viable microorganisms in a water insoluble, water-absorbent substance and methods of producing formulations of viable microorganisms. Also disclosed is a method of treating plants and/or plant seeds with the formulations of the present application.