Softening composition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing softening compositions for textiles and keratin fibers face challenges with viscosity stability, compatibility, and ease of handling, particularly in preventing deterioration and static buildup, while also requiring controlled rheology and anti-static properties.
Innovation Solution
A novel thickening agent is developed, comprising a compound prepared from monoisocyanate and isocyanate compounds without diisocyanates, combined with a non-aromatic solvent, to create a stable and effective softening composition with controlled viscosity, suitable for use in automatic devices like laundry machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional thickening agents are used in softening compositions, then viscosity can be increased, but viscosity stability deteriorates and the composition becomes less compatible with other components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the thickening agent by specifying precise molecular weight ranges (5,000-50,000 g/mol) and hydroxyl value ranges (10-50 mg KOH/g), along with controlled NCO-OH ratio (0.8-1.2), to achieve both high viscosity and viscosity stability without compromising compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite thickening system by combining polyol, isocyanate, and catalyst in specific proportions, forming a multi-component polyurethane-based thickening agent that achieves superior viscosity control and stability compared to single-component agents
2Quantity of substance
If softening compositions are made more concentrated in active substances, then the volume is reduced and manufacturing/transporting is improved, but the viscosity control and handling difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamically adjustable viscosity system where the thickening agent's polymeric structure can be tuned through molecular weight selection (5,000-50,000 g/mol) and formulation ratios, allowing the composition to maintain optimal flow characteristics even at high active substance concentrations (20-80% w/w)
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters by controlling the molecular weight and hydroxyl value of the polyol component, which directly affects the viscosity and flow properties of the concentrated softening composition, enabling easy handling despite high concentration
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the softening composition is made to have good anti-static properties, then static load build-up is reduced, but the formulation complexity and compatibility requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by incorporating amphiphilic polyol structures that simultaneously provide thickening, anti-static, and compatibility functions within a single formulation system, eliminating the need for separate anti-static additives and reducing formulation complexity
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 improved viscosity stability, compatibility, and ease of handling, ensuring effective fiber conditioning and anti-static properties, maintaining performance over time without yellowing, and allowing precise dosing and concentration of active substances.
Implementation Method 1
reaction (A) of at least one monoisocyanate compound... (A2-1) of at least one compound comprising at least one labile hydrogen atom... (C) of at least one compound of formula (I): (HO)-Ln-(OH)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to the field involving the softening or lubricating of natural, synthetic or mixed textile fibres, as well as keratin fibres. The invention provides a softening composition, the rheology of which is controlled by means of a particular thickening agent. The invention also relates to the thickening agent, which is made from multiple isocyanate compounds.