Plant-Based Wax Dispersion Stability via Fibrillated Cellulose
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for alternatives to petroleum-derived waxes due to the finite supply of oil and the desire for renewable sources. Existing solutions using synthetic waxes have mixed results, and there is a requirement for a wax composition that can enhance the stability and properties of various applications, such as paper and board products.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising plant-based wax and a fibrillated cellulose component, which can be incorporated into paper, board, or wood products. The fibrillated cellulose component includes entangled cellulose microfibril aggregates or cellulose nanofibrils, enhancing the stability and properties of the wax dispersion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If petroleum-derived waxes are used to improve product properties, then the desired functional properties are achieved, but the supply becomes limited due to finite oil resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the source parameter of the wax from petroleum-derived to plant-based (renewable) sources while maintaining the functional properties. This involves selecting plant oils with appropriate fatty acid compositions and controlling the hydrogenation degree to achieve desired melting points and performance characteristics, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and resource availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal plant-based wax composition that can replace multiple petroleum-derived wax products across different applications (paper coating, board production, etc.). The composition achieves multi-functionality by adjusting the blend of plant oils and hydrogenation level to satisfy various performance requirements, eliminating dependence on finite petroleum resources
2Quantity of substance
If synthetic waxes are used as alternatives to petroleum waxes, then renewable sourcing is improved, but the product properties show mixed results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by blending multiple plant-based oils (e.g., rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, palm oil) with different fatty acid profiles to achieve a synergistic effect. This composite approach allows optimization of both renewable content and product properties, resolving the contradiction between using renewable sources and maintaining reliable performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically adjusts critical parameters including the ratio of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids, hydrogenation degree, and molecular weight distribution to fine-tune the wax properties. By controlling these parameters, the invention achieves consistent and reliable product performance from renewable plant-based sources
3Reliability
If conventional wax dispersions are used for paper coating, then basic coating properties are achieved, but stability and barrier properties are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (surfactant or emulsifier) to mediate between the hydrophobic plant-based wax and the aqueous dispersion medium. This intermediary improves the stability of the dispersion by reducing interfacial tension and preventing wax particle aggregation, thus resolving the contradiction between achieving basic coating properties and improving dispersion stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as pH value, ionic strength, and temperature of the dispersion to enhance stability. By adjusting these parameters, the invention maintains both the basic coating properties and improved dispersion stability over time
Data Source
AI summary
A composition, a method for manufacturing the composition, and products containing the composition are disclosed. The present composition is a dispersion comprising a plant-based wax and a fibrillated cellulose component. Additionally, a solid wet product and a use of the said composition is disclosed.