Stable Matrix Emulsion Biocide Concentrates for Wood Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biocide formulations, such as IPBC and propiconazole, separate from aqueous dilution solutions when used for treating wood products, leading to instability and ineffective protection against microorganisms and insects.
Innovation Solution
A stable microemulsion concentrate is developed, comprising 1-40% biocide, a matrix of C1-C4 and C8-C14 N-alkyl pyrrolidone, castor oil ethoxylate, ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolymer, and ethoxylated phosphate ester, which remains stable upon dilution with water or organic solvents, forming a usable biocidal composition for wood treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If biocides (IPBC or propiconazole) are used in aqueous dilution solutions for treating wood products, then effective protection against microorganisms and insects is achieved, but the biocide separates from the solution leading to instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a matrix emulsion concentrate containing surfactants and co-solvents as an intermediary system. This concentrate acts as a mediator between the biocide and water, allowing the biocide to remain stabilized in aqueous dilution solutions. The matrix emulsion includes components like alkyl polyglycosides and hydrophilic polymers that prevent biocide separation, thereby resolving the contradiction between achieving effective protection and maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the biocide delivery system by formulating it as a matrix emulsion concentrate with specific surfactant concentrations and HLB values. By adjusting parameters such as surfactant type, concentration, and the HLB balance, the biocide remains soluble and stable in aqueous solutions at various dilutions, preventing separation while maintaining effectiveness.
2Quantity of substance
If biocides are formulated for high loading in concentrate form, then effective protection is achieved, but the formulation becomes difficult to dilute stably with water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-formulating the biocide in a matrix emulsion concentrate that contains all necessary stabilizing agents (surfactants, co-solvents, thickening agents) in the correct proportions. This preliminary formulation ensures that when water is added during dilution, the biocide remains stable throughout the process. The concentrate is prepared in advance with optimized compositions that prevent separation even at high dilution ratios.
3Ease of operation
If conventional biocide formulations are used, then application to wood products is possible, but separation occurs leading to ineffective protection over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by formulating a matrix emulsion concentrate that maintains biocide stability throughout storage, dilution, and application. The continuous phase system with surfactants and stabilizers prevents biocide separation over time, ensuring that the protective action remains effective and continuous. The formulation includes components that maintain homogeneity and prevent precipitation, thereby extending the duration of effective protection.
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 stable microemulsion composition effectively protects wood against microorganisms and insects, maintaining stability over extended periods and withstanding various dilution ratios and temperature changes, ensuring prolonged protection.
Implementation Method 1
stable microemulsion concentrate including... (b) a matrix of... (iii) 4-85% of castor oil ethoxylate, (iv) 0.5-20% of an ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolymer
Implementation Method 2
stable microemulsion compositions including the microemulsion concentrate described above and water and/or organic solvent of dilution
Data Source
AI summary
A stable matrix emulsion concentrate of a biocide, e.g. 3-iodopropynyl-2-butyl carbamate (IPBC) and/or a triazole fungicide, and stable aqueous and/or organic solvent formulations thereof, i.e. dilutable in water and/or an organic solvent are provided, which are particularly useful for treating wood products to provide protection against microorganisms and insects.