Polymer-Encapsulated TiO2 Dispersion for Adjustable Paint Formulations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing batch processes for paint production, both base system and point-of-sale models, are inefficient due to the need for substantial inventory and fixed TiO2 levels, leading to unnecessary costs and time in achieving desired tints, as they require excess TiO2 and colorant adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising polymer-encapsulated TiO2 composite particles, an organic matting agent, and a rheology modifier, processed through an in-line continuous flow mixer to create a versatile and efficient paint formulation that allows for adjustable TiO2 levels and reduced production time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a base system model with fixed TiO2 levels is used, then paint production is simplified, but flexibility to adjust TiO2 levels is lost and excess TiO2 and colorant must be used

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepaint production simplicityVSAvoidTiO2 level adjustment flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed TiO2 levels in batch production to a continuous flow system where TiO2 concentration can be dynamically adjusted. The continuous flow reactor allows real-time modification of TiO2 levels in the paint formulation, enabling adaptability to different colorant requirements without sacrificing production simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of TiO2 concentration from fixed to variable. By using a continuous flow process, the TiO2 level can be continuously adjusted according to the specific colorant requirements of different paint formulations, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and formulation flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If a base system model with fixed TiO2 levels is used, then production process is standardized, but unnecessary costs from excess TiO2 and colorant are incurred

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction process standardizationVSAvoidexcess TiO2 and colorant usage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by allowing continuous adjustment of TiO2 concentration in the flow reactor. This enables precise matching of TiO2 levels to the actual requirements of each paint formulation, eliminating waste from excess TiO2 and colorant while maintaining standardized production processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The continuous flow system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor and adjust TiO2 levels in real-time based on the specific colorant requirements. This feedback loop ensures optimal TiO2 usage without excess, reducing material costs while maintaining process standardization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If a point-of-sale model with separate holding tanks is used, then color customization is enabled, but labor and time for dispensing and mixing are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor customization capabilityVSAvoidproduction speed and labor efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the separate holding tanks and dispensing operations into a single continuous flow reactor system. This integration eliminates the need for separate dispensing and mixing steps, enabling color customization while significantly reducing labor requirements and production time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The continuous flow reactor maintains continuous mixing and reaction throughout the process, eliminating the intermittent dispensing and mixing steps required in point-of-sale models. This continuous operation increases productivity while preserving color customization capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

4Quantity of substance

If batch processing is used, then inventory requirements are reduced, but time for mixing and stabilizing viscosity is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinventory requirementsVSAvoidmixing and viscosity stabilization time
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous flow reactor performs mixing and viscosity stabilization continuously rather than in batch cycles. This eliminates the downtime between batches and reduces the total time required for mixing and stabilization, while maintaining reduced inventory requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS20240425678A1AQUEOUS DISPERSION OF POLYMER-ENCAPSULATED TiO2 COMPOSITE PARTICLES AND AN ORGANIC MATTING AGENT
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 ROHM & HAAS CO
  • US20240425678A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a composition comprising an aqueous dispersion of polymer encapsulated TiO2 composite particles and an organic matting agent, as well as a method for making the composition. The composition of the present invention is useful for coating compositions to improve mar resistance of coatings.