Paper Web Crosslinking Chemistry for Wet Strength and Biodegradability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper and non-woven webs face challenges in achieving stable fiber-fiber crosslinkages in both dry and wet states, particularly under extreme conditions, and require environmentally unfriendly oil-based compounds for enhanced wet-strength properties.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating carboxylic acids, halogenated heteroaromatic compounds, and their salts as crosslinking or functionalization agents, which form covalent bonds with fibers to enhance tensile strength, porosity, adherence, and biodegradability, while avoiding polymeric binders and using polysaccharides like carboxymethyl cellulose to control properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hydrophobic compounds like styrene/acrylate copolymers are used to improve wet-strength, then wet-strength properties are improved, but biodegradability and environmental friendliness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by selecting crosslinking agents from environmentally friendly categories (isocyanates, silanes, epoxy compounds, or carboxylic acids with anhydrides) that can provide effective crosslinking without relying on petroleum-based hydrophobic compounds. This maintains wet-strength improvement while enhancing biodegradability and environmental compatibility.
2Strength
If crosslinking agents are added to enhance tensile strength, then strength properties are improved, but biodegradability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selects crosslinking agents with specific chemical characteristics (isocyanates, silanes, epoxy compounds, or carboxylic acids with anhydrides) that provide adequate tensile strength while maintaining biodegradability. The selection criteria include molecular structure and reactivity parameters that balance strength enhancement with environmental compatibility.
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 high tensile strength in both dry and wet states, improved biodegradability, and controlled hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, making the paper or non-woven web more environmentally friendly and suitable for various applications without relying on oil-based compounds.
Implementation Method 1
form covalent bonds with fibers to enhance tensile strength
Implementation Method 2
fiber-fiber crosslinkages which are stable in a dry state
Implementation Method 3
controls wettability and water absorption by using an additive of an amphiphilic compound
Implementation Method 4
The porosity, adherence, wettability or hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of the paper or non-woven web can be easily controlled
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a paper or non-woven web, comprising fibers and at least one crosslinking or functionalization agent selected from the group consisting of carboxylic acids, halogenated heteroaromatic compounds and salts thereof, wherein said at least one crosslinking or functionalization agent has a molecular weight of not more than 1000 g/mol, and wherein at least a part of said crosslinking or functionalization agent is bound to said fibers, a process for producing said paper or non-woven web, and the use of said crosslinking or functionalization agent in a paper or non-woven web.