Pressure Spray Nozzle Settings to Minimize Enzyme Aerosol Mist
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aqueous sprayable compositions containing enzymes or proteins pose a health hazard due to aerosolization, leading to respiratory issues and allergic reactions when used in pressurized spray devices, as the airborne particles can be inhaled, causing irritation and potential asthma attacks.
Innovation Solution
The use of low-pressure commercial spraying systems, specifically a nozzle that produces a particle size of 750 microns, and a concentrated solution with up to 0.003% protein, applied at a rate of 56.7 g per 3.79 liters, reduces aerosolization and minimizes health risks for users by preventing the formation of airborne aerosols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pressurized spray devices are used to apply enzyme-containing cleaning compositions, then cleaning efficiency and application speed are improved, but aerosolization of proteins increases causing health hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pressure parameter from high to low (maintaining spray function while reducing aerosolization), adjusts particle size parameters (750 microns), and modifies application rate parameters (56.7 g per 3.79 liters) to resolve the contradiction between cleaning efficiency and protein aerosolization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of spray parameters including variable pressure delivery, adjustable nozzle selection, and controlled application rates to optimize both cleaning performance and minimize aerosol generation throughout the cleaning process
2Object-affected harmful factors
If high viscosity formulations are used to reduce enzyme aerosolization, then health safety is improved, but application performance and sprayability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the viscosity parameter to low viscosity formulations, which improves sprayability and ease of operation while compensating for aerosolization control through optimized pressure and nozzle parameters instead of relying on high viscosity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If low-pressure spraying is used to minimize aerosolization, then health safety is improved, but cleaning coverage and efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes multiple parameters simultaneously: pressure (low), particle size (750 microns), and application rate (56.7 g per 3.79 liters) to achieve a balance where low aerosolization is maintained while adequate cleaning coverage is provided through controlled delivery
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 significantly reduces the aerosolization of proteins, enhancing safety and efficiency for janitors by minimizing exposure to airborne enzymes, thereby reducing missed workdays, discomfort, and respiratory issues, while maintaining effective cleaning performance.
Implementation Method 1
low-pressure application at no more than 6.89 bar (100 psi)... a specific nozzle, (one which delivers a particle size of 750 microns)
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods for improving safety and delivery of commercial application of cleaning compositions that include enzymes and other protein irritants. The methods reduce the mist and aerosolization of proteins so that inhalation and exposure to the same are reduced. According to the invention, when commercial pressurized sprayers are used to apply protein containing use cleaning compositions of up to 5 ppm protein, aerosolization is decreased to below 60 ng active protein per meter cubed. Applicants have also identified a specific metering tip/nozzle, dispense rate, and low pressure application of not more than 100 psi are critical to achieving the benefits of the invention.