Peracetic Acid Sensing Layer for Interferometric Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring peracetic acid concentrations in aqueous solutions are labor-intensive, prone to interference from acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, and require frequent sensor calibration, with rapid decay of peracetic acid posing economic and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A charge-transfer based sensing layer composition is integrated into an interferometric system, capable of selectively binding and reversibly releasing analytes, including peracetic acid, allowing for real-time monitoring and quantification within an optical interferometer, using an automated flow injection system for sample handling and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If colorimetric method and redox titration are used for peracetic acid measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but interference from color and turbidity in process water impedes accurate measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from manual colorimetric and titration methods by implementing an automated sensor system that specifically targets peracetic acid detection, separating the measurement capability from the interfering matrix components through selective sensing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automated sampling and measurement system as an intermediary between the process water and the analyst, using flow injection technology and automated titration to mediate the measurement process and eliminate the direct human exposure to colored and turbid samples
2Measurement precision
If manual sample collection and measurement practices are employed, then peracetic acid concentration can be determined, but the process is labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the system automatically performs sample collection, preparation, measurement, and data recording without human intervention. The automated titration system and flow injection technology enable the measurement process to serve itself, eliminating manual labor and reducing time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical and electronic systems, using robotic sampling, automated titration mechanisms, and electronic data processing to substitute human manual work, thereby reducing labor intensity and time consumption
3Productivity
If peracetic acid sensors are deployed for continuous monitoring, then real-time data can be obtained, but frequent sensor calibration and electrode fouling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable or easily replaceable sensing elements that can be discarded after a limited number of uses or when fouling occurs, eliminating the need for complex recalibration procedures. This approach trades the cost of replacing simple sensors against the time and complexity of calibration and maintenance of permanent sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically discards fouled or degraded sensing elements and replaces them with fresh ones, maintaining continuous monitoring capability without requiring manual calibration. The automated system manages the lifecycle of sensing elements, recovering functionality by simply replacing rather than recalibrating
4Reliability
If peracetic acid is used at higher concentrations for effective disinfection, then antimicrobial activity is improved, but decomposition rate increases due to pH, temperature, and transition metals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback monitoring of peracetic acid concentration through automated sensing, allowing the system to detect decomposition and adjust dosing or storage conditions dynamically. This feedback loop enables maintenance of effective concentrations by compensating for decomposition losses due to pH, temperature, and metal catalysts
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts critical parameters such as pH, temperature, and contact time based on real-time concentration measurements to optimize both stability and disinfection effectiveness. By changing these parameters adaptively, the system maintains peracetic acid stability while ensuring adequate antimicrobial activity
5Productivity
If peracetic acid concentration is increased to meet oxidant demand rapidly, then disinfection speed is improved, but economic cost increases due to rapid decay and consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual estimation and batch processing with automated continuous monitoring and controlled delivery systems. This substitution enables precise dosing that matches actual demand, reducing waste from over-application and optimizing the balance between disinfection speed and chemical consumption
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time concentration monitoring provides feedback on actual peracetic acid levels and consumption rates, allowing the system to adjust dosing rates dynamically. This feedback control prevents both under-dosing (which would slow disinfection) and over-dosing (which would increase waste), optimizing the economic efficiency of peracetic acid usage
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
This solution enables high-frequency, automated, and accurate monitoring of peracetic acid levels, providing real-time data and reducing the need for frequent sensor calibration, thereby improving the management and stability of peracetic acid concentrations in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing layer composition is a charge-transfer based sensing layer composition
Implementation Method 2
adhered to at least one side of one or more waveguide channels in/on a waveguide chip of an interferometric system
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing layer composition is provided. The sensing layer composition is particularly suited to be adhered to at least one side of one or more waveguide channels in/on a waveguide chip of an interferometric system. The sensing layer composition is particularly suited to bind or be selectively disturbed by peracetic acid via optical interferometric analysis.