Odor Masking in Organic Sulfide Oxide Solvents
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Solution Overview
Problem
The unpleasant odor of organic sulfide oxides, such as DMSO, poses a challenge for their wider use as solvents, particularly as toxic solvents like N-methylpyrrolidone and N,N-dimethylformamide are replaced, as existing deodorization methods are insufficient for masking their inherent smells while retaining solvent properties.
Innovation Solution
A solvent composition comprising at least 50% organic sulfide oxide combined with 10 ppm to 2% by weight of an odor masking agent, including mono-esters, di- and/or tri-esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and terpenes, effectively masks the odor without chemically modifying the sulfide oxide, allowing for their use in various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If organic sulfide oxides are used as solvents to replace toxic solvents, then solvent power and low toxicity are improved, but unpleasant odor worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an odor masking agent as an intermediary substance that mediates between the organic sulfide oxide solvent and the user's sense of smell. The masking agent (0.01-5% by weight) binds to or competes with the odor molecules, preventing them from reaching the olfactory receptors, thereby eliminating the unpleasant odor while preserving the solvent's functional properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the compositional parameters of the solvent system by adding specific odor masking agents in controlled concentrations. This parameter change (adding masking agents at 0.01-5% weight ratio) transforms the sensory properties of the solvent without altering its chemical solvent power or toxicity profile
2Object-generated harmful factors
If odor masking agents are added to mask the smell of organic sulfide oxides, then odor is improved, but composition complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes specific parameter ranges for the masking agent concentration (0.01-5% by weight) to achieve effective odor masking while minimizing composition complexity. By defining this narrow optimal range, the patent balances the need for odor control with the desire to maintain a simple, practical composition suitable for industrial applications
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 composition successfully masks the odor of organic sulfide oxides, enhancing their usability in fields where their smell would otherwise be a hindrance, while maintaining their solvent properties and safety profiles.
Implementation Method 1
at least one odor masking agent comprising at least one compound chosen from mono-esters, di- and/or tri-esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones and terpenes
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to solvent compositions predominantly comprising at least one oxide of an organic sulfide, more particularly dimethyl sulfoxide, to which is added at least one odour-masking agent comprising at least one compound selected from monoesters, diesters or triesters, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes and terpenes.