Multi-Enzyme Co-Granule Detergent with Moisture Sink
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Solution Overview
Problem
Detergent compositions with multiple enzymes face challenges in maintaining consistent cleaning performance, especially under high temperature and humidity conditions, due to enzyme activity loss, particularly when protease is present, and the need for reduced petrochemical use in warmer regions.
Innovation Solution
A detergent composition with a multi-enzyme co-granule containing less than 10 wt% zeolite and phosphate salt, incorporating a moisture sink component to maintain enzyme stability, and a method of using this composition in low-temperature aqueous washes with surfactant levels between 0.1 g/l to 3 g/l.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple enzymes are combined in one co-granule to improve uniform distribution, then enzyme distribution uniformity is improved, but enzyme activity stability deteriorates under high temperature and humidity conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the co-granule into distinct compartments or layers, separating enzymes that are prone to interaction (particularly protease with other enzymes) from each other. This segmentation maintains uniform distribution of multiple enzymes in the detergent while preventing harmful interactions that would occur in a mixed co-granule environment, especially under high temperature and humidity storage conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance or barrier between different enzymes within the co-granule structure. This intermediary prevents direct contact and interaction between enzymes that would otherwise lead to activity loss, while still allowing the co-granule to function as a unified distribution vehicle in the detergent composition.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If low levels of zeolite and phosphate builders are used to reduce petrochemical reliance, then environmental compatibility is improved, but enzyme stability deteriorates under high temperature conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the detergent by reducing zeolite and phosphate builder levels while compensating with alternative builder systems or enzyme protection mechanisms. This parameter change reduces petrochemical reliance while maintaining enzyme stability through the use of alternative buffering systems or protective agents that do not depend on traditional high-level zeolite/phosphate formulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material strategies by combining reduced levels of traditional builders (zeolite and phosphate) with alternative builder compounds and enzyme protection agents. This composite approach creates a synergistic system that maintains water softening and enzyme stability functions while reducing dependence on any single petrochemical-based builder system.
3Use of energy by moving object
If low water and low temperature washes are used to conserve energy, then energy consumption is reduced, but cleaning effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes enzyme formulation parameters by selecting and combining enzymes with enhanced activity at lower temperatures. The multi-enzyme co-granule system is specifically designed to maintain high catalytic activity in low-temperature wash conditions, compensating for the reduced thermal energy available for cleaning while improving overall energy efficiency of the washing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses enzyme cocktails that replicate the cleaning functions previously achieved through high-temperature thermal processes. The combination of different enzymes in the co-granule system performs chemical cleaning tasks that would otherwise require higher thermal energy input, effectively copying the cleaning outcome through biochemical pathways instead of thermal pathways.
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 ensures uniform enzyme distribution and stability, maintaining cleaning effectiveness even in high-temperature and humid conditions, while reducing petrochemical reliance and enhancing handling properties.
Implementation Method 1
said enzyme co-granule comprises from 10 to 98 wt % moisture sink component
Data Source
AI summary
Detergent compositions are described having more than one enzyme, in particular having a multi-enzyme co-particle as well as methods of making and using such detergents. The compositions also have low levels of zeolite and phosphate builders and a moisture sink to minimize interaction between enzymes.