PVAm Formaldehyde-Scavenging Formulation Without Agglomeration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing formaldehyde-scavenging formulations face issues such as agglomeration, which can lead to clogged filters and undesirable textural effects, and they often require modifications to manufacturing processes to be compatible with construction products, while also needing to meet stringent emission standards without introducing additional health or environmental risks.

Innovation Solution

A formaldehyde-scavenging formulation comprising polyvinylamine (PVAm) or its copolymer, a non-ionic or cationic stabilized binder and/or crosslinker, and a non-ionic stabilized fire retardant, formulated to avoid agglomeration and maintain compatibility with existing manufacturing processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If anionic stabilized binders and anionic stabilized fire retardants are used in combination with cationic scavengers, then formaldehyde scavenging function is improved, but agglomeration occurs leading to clogged filters and textural defects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformaldehyde scavenging functionVSAvoidagglomeration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the stabilization parameter from anionic to nonionic, eliminating the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged components that causes agglomeration. The nonionic stabilization maintains the formaldehyde scavenging function while preventing the harmful agglomeration effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces nonionic dispersants as intermediary agents that mediate between the cationic scavenger and anionic fire retardant/binder components. These dispersants prevent direct interaction between oppositely charged species, thereby preventing agglomeration while allowing all functional components to coexist.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If new formaldehyde-scavenging formulations are developed to meet emission standards, then emission control is improved, but compatibility with existing manufacturing protocols may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformaldehyde emissionsVSAvoidmanufacturing protocol compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The formulation is designed to be universally compatible with existing manufacturing processes for construction products. The composition can be applied to various substrates including veils, insulation boards, and wood-based panels using standard manufacturing protocols, while simultaneously achieving stringent emission standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the chemical parameters of the scavenger system by using nonionic stabilization instead of anionic, which allows the formulation to work within existing manufacturing temperature and processing conditions without requiring protocol modifications, while still achieving the desired emission reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-affected harmful factors

If formulation components are combined to achieve formaldehyde reduction, then emission standards are met, but additional health and safety concerns may be introduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformaldehyde emissionsVSAvoidmanufacturing safety risks
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a formulation approach where the scavenger components are designed to be safe and environmentally benign. The nonionic stabilized formulation avoids the use of hazardous substances, allowing the product to fulfill its formaldehyde reduction function without introducing new health or safety concerns during manufacturing or use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 formulation effectively reduces formaldehyde emissions, prevents agglomeration, and meets stringent emission standards without altering existing manufacturing protocols, ensuring safety and environmental compatibility.

Implementation Method 1

a polyvinylamine (PVAm) formaldehyde scavenger... effectively reduces formaldehyde emissions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Implementation Method 2

a non-ionic stabilized fire retardant... prevents agglomeration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDispersion: Dispersion (of waves)

Data Source

PatentUS20250332568A1Formaldehyde-scavenging formulation
Publication Date: 2025.10.30 OWENS CORNING INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL LLC

AI summary

The present invention is concerned with improved formaldehyde-scavenging formulations, and uses of same in veils and construction products including ceiling tiles, boards including insulation boards, particularly phenolic insulation boards, and panels and boards including wood panels and wood boards, together with methods for reduction of formaldehyde emissions from a construction product.