Polymer Fibers with Embedded Copper Particles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for producing polymeric articles such as fibers, films, and solid surfaces with improved properties by embedding particles are inefficient due to improper selection of particle size, which can lead to suboptimal desired properties and adverse effects on the polymeric material.

Innovation Solution

The method involves selecting particles with specific average and maximum particle sizes based on the desired properties and composition of the polymeric articles, such as fiber diameter, to maximize the weight of available particles and optimize the antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If particles are embedded in polymeric articles to improve properties, then antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties are enhanced, but improper particle size selection leads to suboptimal properties and adverse effects on the polymeric material

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantimicrobial efficacyVSAvoidadverse effects on polymeric material

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying particle size parameters (average particle size, maximum particle size, particle size distribution) to optimize the balance between antimicrobial efficacy and adverse effects on the polymeric material. Different particle size parameters are selected based on the desired fiber diameter and article composition to achieve optimal performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by tailoring particle size characteristics to specific local requirements of the polymeric article. The average particle size and maximum particle size are selected based on the fiber diameter and composition of specific regions, ensuring optimal properties for each application while minimizing harmful effects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Quantity of substance

If particle size is not properly selected, then the weight of available particles is reduced, but proper selection optimizes desired properties

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveweight of available particlesVSAvoidparticle size selection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by establishing specific relationships between particle size parameters and fiber diameter. The average particle size and maximum particle size are calculated based on the desired fiber diameter to maximize the weight of available particles while maintaining manufacturing precision through defined selection criteria.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If particles are embedded to enhance antimicrobial properties, then efficacy is improved, but improper particle size leads to suboptimal antimicrobial activity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantimicrobial activityVSAvoidantimicrobial efficacy optimization

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing particle size parameters to maximize antimicrobial efficacy. The average particle size and maximum particle size are selected based on fiber diameter and composition to ensure optimal particle surface area and distribution for antimicrobial activity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by tailoring particle size characteristics to match the specific requirements of different fiber types and diameters. This ensures that each local region of the polymeric article has particles optimized for maximum antimicrobial activity given its specific composition and structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 approach enhances the efficacy and durability of polymeric articles by ensuring that a higher percentage of embedded particles is bioavailable, thereby providing enhanced antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

Implementation Method 1

The particles may comprise water insoluble copper compounds that release at least one of Cu+ ions and Cu++ ions upon contact with a fluid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIon release:

Data Source

PatentUS20250137170A1Fibers with embedded particles and methods of producing fibers with embedded particles

Publication Date: 2025.05.01 CUPRON PERFORMANCE ADDITIVES INC

AI summary

Polymeric articles including fibers, films, and solid surfaces may be produced with improved properties by embedding particles within the article. The particles may be any particle that imparts desired properties to the fiber, film, or solid surface. Methods of selecting the particle size based upon the desired properties of the article such as the fiber diameter, film thickness, efficacy such as antimicrobial activity of the article, and/or article compositions are also described. For example, fibers having improved antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties are described. The articles having antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties may comprise a plurality of particles comprising water insoluble copper compounds that release at least one of Cu+ ions and Cu++ ions upon contact with a fluid. The average particle size or the particle size range is selected based upon the diameter of the fiber or thickness of the film to be produced.