Single-Layer Membrane with Alternating Charge Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charge mosaic membranes lack efficient control over charge distribution and are prone to delamination, limiting their effectiveness in fluid processing applications.
Innovation Solution
A microporous membrane with a single layer comprising a first and second microporous surface and a bulk with alternating charge continuous zones, where a neutral zone is interposed between opposing charge zones, allowing for controlled charge interaction and reduced thickness, enabling efficient fluid processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple charge layers are used to create zones of different charges, then charge distribution control is improved, but delamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple charge layers into a single integrated membrane structure, eliminating the interfaces between separate layers that cause delamination. The single layer contains alternating charge continuous zones and neutral zones formed within the same polymer matrix, merging what would otherwise be separate layers into one cohesive structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane uses composite material structure with alternating charge continuous zones and neutral zones within a single layer. This composite design allows different charge regions to coexist in one integrated layer, achieving charge distribution control without the delamination problems of multi-layer constructions.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple charge layers are used to create zones of different charges, then charge interaction control is improved, but membrane thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple charge layers into a single layer with alternating charge continuous zones and neutral zones. This integration maintains the charge interaction control benefits of multi-layer structures while eliminating the cumulative thickness of multiple separate layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a multi-layer vertical stacking approach to a single-layer approach with alternating zones distributed throughout the membrane thickness. This dimensional reorganization allows charge zones to be distributed in a single integrated structure rather than stacked as separate layers.
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 membrane provides improved fluid processing capabilities by allowing precise control over charge interactions, reducing delamination risks, and offering enhanced filtration efficiency across various applications.
Implementation Method 1
the bulk has a first charge continuous zone, a neutral charge continuous zone, and a second charge continuous zone, the continuous zones arranged generally parallel to the first and second microporous surfaces, wherein the neutral continuous zone is interposed between the first charge continuous zone and the second charge continuous zone, and wherein the first charge continuous zone and the second charge continuous zone have opposing charges
Data Source
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AI summary
Membranes comprising continuous zones of negative, neutral, and positive charges in a single co-casted porous layer optionally with a template structured surface, as well as devices comprising the membranes, and methods of making the membranes, are disclosed. Applied for the filtration of photoresist solutions.