Multi-Enzyme Detergent Composition with Moisture Sink for Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Detergent compositions with multiple enzymes face challenges in maintaining enzyme activity under high temperature and humidity conditions, especially when stored in warmer regions, due to interaction between enzymes in co-granules, particularly when low levels of zeolite and phosphate builders are used.
Innovation Solution
A detergent composition comprising a multi-enzyme co-granule with a protease enzyme and a moisture sink component, such as hydratable salts or desiccated clays, along with a limited amount of zeolite and phosphate salts, which helps in maintaining enzyme stability by controlling moisture levels and preventing physical segregation of enzymes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple enzymes are combined in one co-granule to improve distribution uniformity, 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 functional zones: an inner core containing protease and exopolymerase enzymes, and an outer shell containing moisture sink materials (hydratable salts, dessicated clays, or bio-fillers). This segmentation physically separates the enzymes from direct exposure to moisture while maintaining uniform distribution throughout the granule structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture sink materials in the outer shell act as intermediary substances that absorb and buffer moisture, preventing direct contact between moisture and the enzymes in the inner core. This intermediary layer protects the enzymes from deactivation while allowing the granule to maintain its structural integrity and uniform distribution.
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 storage conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the detergent by using hydrated salts (such as sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, calcium sulfate) and dessicated clays as moisture sinks instead of relying on high levels of traditional zeolite and phosphate builders. This parameter change reduces petrochemical content while providing alternative moisture management to protect enzyme stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite granule structure combining enzymes with moisture sink materials (hydratable salts, dessicated clays, or bio-fillers) in a controlled matrix. This composite material approach provides enzyme protection through physical moisture management rather than relying on chemical builders, thereby maintaining enzyme stability while reducing petrochemical reliance.
3Reliability
If moisture sink components are added to the co-granule to protect enzymes, then enzyme stability is improved, but physical segregation of enzymes may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent structures the granule with enzymes nested within an inner core that is itself nested within an outer shell of moisture sink materials. This nested structure ensures that enzymes remain embedded and protected within the granule matrix, preventing physical segregation while allowing the moisture sink components to perform their protective function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different parts of the granule: the inner core contains the enzymes with specific catalytic properties, while the outer shell contains moisture sink materials with hygroscopic properties. This local differentiation of quality allows each zone to perform its specific function while maintaining overall granule integrity and preventing segregation.
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 consistent cleaning performance and stability of enzymes even under high temperature and humidity conditions, reducing the risk of enzyme inactivation and improving handling properties.
Implementation Method 1
the enzyme co-granule comprises at least one protease enzyme and from 10 to 98 wt% moisture sink component selected from the group consisting of (a) hydratable salts, (b) dessicated clays, (c) bio-filler and (d) mixtures thereof
Implementation Method 2
from 10 to 98 wt% moisture sink component selected from the group consisting of (a) hydratable salts
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.