Thermo-Sensitive Block Copolymer Composition for Lower Polymer Loading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Thermo-sensitive applications of water-soluble block copolymers of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide in emulsion systems require high concentrations, leading to unpleasant sensory experiences and increased costs, while maintaining compatibility with cosmetic formulations.

Innovation Solution

A thermo-sensitive composition comprising a water-soluble block copolymer with polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide blocks, combined with ester-based or alkane-based emollients and an emulsifier, achieving a texture transition temperature between 5 to 40°C.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If high concentration of water-soluble block copolymer is used to achieve thermo-sensitive behavior in emulsion system, then texture transition temperature control is improved, but sensory experience deteriorates and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetexture transition temperatureVSAvoidsensory experience

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the concentration parameter of the block copolymer from high to low range (0.1-10% w/w), and compensates by adjusting emollient content and type to achieve the desired texture transition temperature range (5-40°C) without the harmful sensory effects associated with high polymer concentrations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite emulsion system combining block copolymer, emollients (ester-based and/or alkane-based), and emulsifier, where the synergistic interaction between components enables thermo-sensitive behavior at lower copolymer concentrations, improving sensory experience while maintaining functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Temperature

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetexture transition temperatureVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reduces the block copolymer concentration parameter from high to low range (0.1-10% w/w), and adjusts the emollient content parameter accordingly, achieving cost reduction while maintaining the texture transition temperature control functionality through optimized formulation ratios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces emollients as intermediary components that mediate the thermo-sensitive behavior, allowing the system to achieve texture transition at lower block copolymer concentrations, thereby reducing the quantity of expensive polymer material needed while maintaining functional performance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Temperature

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetexture transition temperatureVSAvoidformula compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adjusts the block copolymer concentration parameter to a lower optimal range (0.1-10% w/w) and modifies the emollient content parameter, improving formula compatibility by reducing polymer-related interactions while maintaining texture transition temperature control through balanced formulation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different quality characteristics to different components: low concentration block copolymer for thermo-sensitive control, specific emollient types and ratios for compatibility enhancement, and optimized emulsifier content for system stability, allowing each component to contribute its specific quality without negative interactions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 provides effective delivery of cosmetic active ingredients with reduced copolymer content, enhancing sensory experience and formula compatibility.

Implementation Method 1

the concentration of polymer is adjusted to give the desired sol-gel transition temperature

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSol-gel transition: Phase Change

Implementation Method 2

Water-soluble block copolymers of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide are classical series of materials which have thermo-sensitive behavior

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermo-sensitive behavior: Temperature Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS20250241842A1Thermo-sensitive composition and method for preparation thereof

Publication Date: 2025.07.31 BASF SE

AI summary

The present invention relates to a thermo-sensitive composition comprising i) a water-soluble block copolymer comprising at least two blocks of polyethylene oxide and at least one block of polypropylene oxide; and (ii) at least one ester-based emollient and/or alkane-based emollient, especially for the delivery of cosmetics active ingredients, and method for preparation thereof.