Spherical Thermoplastic Resin Particles via Phase Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermoplastic resin particles have issues with non-sphericity, large particle diameter, wide size distribution, and the inclusion of fibrous substances, which affect their performance in cosmetics and paints, and their production methods are inefficient, generating waste solvents and requiring complex facilities.
Innovation Solution
The production of generally spherical thermoplastic resin particles with specific sphericity, light scattering index, and linseed oil absorption ranges is achieved by emulsifying and dispersing thermoplastic resin at high temperatures using a solvent system containing 3-alkoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and/or 3-alkoxy-3-methyl-1-butylacetate, followed by cooling, which results in particles with improved optical properties and handling characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional crushing or dissolution methods are used to produce thermoplastic resin particles, then production can be achieved, but the particles are not spherical, have large diameter, wide size distribution, and contain fibrous substances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameters of the resin by controlling temperature during dissolution. The resin is dissolved at elevated temperatures (above glass transition temperature) to achieve complete dissolution, then cooled to induce uniform precipitation, transforming the resin from solid particles to dissolved state and back, thereby achieving spherical morphology and narrow size distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transition of the thermoplastic resin between dissolved and precipitated states. By heating above the glass transition temperature, the resin transitions from solid to dissolved state; subsequent cooling causes phase separation and uniform precipitation, forming spherical particles with controlled size and narrow distribution
2Manufacturing precision
If organic solvents are used to dissolve and deposit resin particles, then fine particles can be obtained, but waste solvents are generated and environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the solvent type from organic to water-based, and controls temperature parameters to achieve dissolution at high temperature followed by cooling-induced precipitation. This parameter change eliminates organic solvent waste while maintaining particle fineness through controlled phase transition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive and environmentally harmful organic solvents with water, which is inexpensive, non-toxic, and environmentally benign. The water solvent system achieves the same particle formation function without generating harmful waste, aligning with green chemistry principles
3Quantity of substance
If mechanical crushing is used to obtain fine powder, then particles can be produced, but the process requires complicated facilities and extended time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical crushing systems with a chemical-physical process involving dissolution and precipitation. Instead of using mechanical force to break down particles, the resin is dissolved at elevated temperature and then precipitated upon cooling, naturally forming fine spherical particles without mechanical intervention, thereby eliminating complex crushing facilities and reducing production time
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 method produces thermoplastic resin particles with high light scattering ability and convenient preparation, suitable for various applications, including cosmetics and paints, with enhanced tactile sensation and rheology control, while reducing environmental impact and production complexity.
Implementation Method 1
emulsifying and dispersing thermoplastic resin at a high temperature in a solvent system containing 3-alkoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol and/or 3-alkoxy-3-methyl-1-butylacetate
Implementation Method 2
followed by cooling, which results in particles with improved optical properties
Data Source
AI summary
Generally spherical resin particles formed of a thermoplastic resin, having a sphericity of 0.90 to 1.00, a light scattering index of 0.5 to 1.0 and a linseed oil absorption of 30 to 150 mL/100 g.