Reversible Non-Reversible Adhesive Layer Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adhesive articles, particularly those with pressure-sensitive adhesives, face challenges in easy removal from skin surfaces without causing pain or damage, especially on fragile skin populations like newborns and the elderly, and struggle with adhesion in humid environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of adhesive articles comprising a combination of a reversible adhesive layer and a non-reversible adhesive layer, where the reversible adhesive layer, such as a thermally reversible polymer, provides easy removal by reducing adhesiveness at lower temperatures, while the non-reversible adhesive layer ensures strong and consistent adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If pressure-sensitive adhesive is used to ensure strong adhesion, then adhesion strength is improved, but removal causes pain and tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive is divided into two functional layers: a reversible adhesive layer (containing thermally reversible polymer) that enables pain-free removal, and a non-reversible adhesive layer that provides strong initial adhesion. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The reversible adhesive layer changes its adhesive properties based on temperature parameters. At skin temperature, it provides adequate adhesion; during removal, cooling the adhesive below its transition temperature reduces its adhesive strength, enabling pain-free removal without tissue damage.
2Strength
If non-reversible adhesive is used to ensure strong adhesion, then adhesion strength is improved, but removal becomes difficult and may damage underlying tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive system is segmented into a removable reversible adhesive layer and a permanent non-reversible adhesive layer. The reversible layer acts as a sacrificial element that fails first during removal, protecting the underlying tissue while the non-reversible layer remains intact for potential reapplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The reversible adhesive layer serves as an intermediary between the user and the non-reversible adhesive layer. It provides the removal function that would otherwise require damaging the non-reversible adhesive or the underlying tissue, acting as a protective mediator during the removal process.
3Reliability
If adhesive strength is increased for secure attachment, then reliability is improved, but performance in humid environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive system uses a composite structure combining two different adhesive types with complementary properties. The non-reversible adhesive provides reliable adhesion in humid environments, while the reversible adhesive layer maintains its adhesive properties across varying humidity conditions due to its temperature-dependent mechanism.
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 solution allows for the easy and pain-free removal of adhesive articles from fragile skin surfaces without causing damage, while maintaining strong adhesion in various environmental conditions, including humidity.
Implementation Method 1
The reversible adhesive layer, such as a thermally reversible polymer, provides easy removal by reducing adhesiveness at lower temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates generally to adhesive articles and particularly to adhesive articles comprising a reversible adhesive layer and a non-reversible adhesive layer. The adhesive article may further comprise a backing material. The adhesive article may further comprise a dressing material. Such adhesive articles may be particularly suitable for treatment of damaged sensitive tissue, for example wounds formed on a fragile skin.