Nanoparticle Encapsulation in Polymer Host Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanotechnology formulations face challenges in stabilizing nanoparticles, particularly light-emissive ones, due to environmental factors like oxygen and water, which affect their performance and longevity.
Innovation Solution
A formulation comprising a medium, stabilizers such as hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) and UV Absorbers, and nanoparticles encapsulated within a host material like polyacrylate or polymethacrylate, which protects the nanoparticles and enhances their stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nanoparticles are exposed to environmental factors like oxygen and water, then they can be used in various applications, but their stability and performance deteriorate due to environmental degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a host material as an intermediary substance that encapsulates the nanoparticles. This host material acts as a protective mediator between the nanoparticles and environmental factors (oxygen, water), preventing direct contact and degradation while allowing the nanoparticles to maintain their functional properties for various applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a host material forming a protective shell or matrix around the nanoparticles. This shell structure provides physical protection against environmental degradation while maintaining the nanoparticles' light-emissive properties, effectively isolating them from harmful external factors
2Reliability
If nanoparticles are encapsulated within a host material to protect them, then their stability improves, but the complexity of the formulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system where nanoparticles are integrated within a host material matrix. This composite structure combines the functional properties of nanoparticles with the protective characteristics of the host material, achieving enhanced stability while managing formulation complexity through material integration rather than separate protective layers
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 encapsulation method effectively shields nanoparticles from environmental degradation, improving their stability and performance by creating a protective environment that maintains their light-emissive properties.
Implementation Method 1
nanoparticles included within a host material
Implementation Method 2
UV Absorber (UVA) stabilizer
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a formulation comprising a medium, one or more stabilizers, and one or more particles comprising nanoparticles included within a host material. In certain embodiments, a stabilizer comprises a HALS stabilizer. In certain embodiments, a stabilizer comprises a UVA stabilizer. In certain embodiments, the formulation includes a HALS stabilizer and a UVA stabilizer. In certain embodiments, nanoparticles have light-emissive properties. Other embodiments relate to a powder obtainable from a formulation of the invention, a composition including a powder of the invention, a coating comprising a formulation of the invention, and products and applications including a particle of the invention. In preferred embodiments, a nanoparticle comprises a semiconductor nanocrystal. In certain embodiments, a host material comprises a polymer. In certain embodiments, a host material comprises an inorganic material. A raw batch formulation and particle obtainable therefrom is also disclosed.