Zwitterionic Polymer Air Particulate Agglomeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for reducing particulates in the air, such as filtration and ionization technologies, are often costly, cumbersome, or leave sticky residues that can attract more dust, failing to effectively remove smaller particulates which can re-circulate into the air.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising a zwitterionic polymer, a compressed gas propellant, and an aqueous carrier is sprayed into the air to agglomerate particulates, reducing their presence without leaving a sticky residue, and can include perfume and malodor counteractants for added benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sprayable products with precipitating ingredients are used to mechanically force particulates to a surface, then particulates are removed from the air, but smaller lighter particulates quickly re-circulate back into the air upon air movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a zwitterionic polymer as an intermediary substance that mediates between air particulates and surfaces. The polymer acts as a bridge that binds particulates together and to surfaces through its unique charge structure (containing both positive and negative charges), preventing direct contact that would cause sticky residues while ensuring effective particulate capture and retention on surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical parameter of the polymer used in sprayable products by specifying a zwitterionic polymer with particular properties (molecular weight, charge structure). This parameter change allows the polymer to effectively capture both large and small particulates without creating sticky residues, resolving the contradiction between removal efficiency and durability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If dust controlling levels of barrier forming ingredient are used to cover particulates on surfaces, then particulates are controlled on surfaces, but a sticky residue results that can attract more dust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the barrier-forming ingredient by specifying a zwitterionic polymer with particular molecular weight, charge structure, and composition ratios. These parameter changes enable the polymer to form a non-sticky barrier that controls particulates on surfaces without creating adhesive residues that would attract additional dust.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite material approach by using a zwitterionic polymer that combines both cationic and anionic functional groups within a single molecular structure. This composite structure allows the material to simultaneously provide barrier formation for particulate control and maintain non-sticky properties by balancing electrostatic interactions.
3Productivity
If filtration and ionization technology are used to reduce particulates in the air, then particulate reduction is achieved, but the products are costly or cumbersome to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical systems (filtration devices, ionization equipment) with a simple chemical solution - a sprayable zwitterionic polymer composition. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive, cumbersome mechanical apparatus while achieving effective particulate reduction through the polymer's ability to bind and retain particulates on surfaces.
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 solution effectively reduces particulates in the air by agglomerating them, maintaining a consistent perfume release and providing genuine malodor removal without impacting the fragrance character, while being fabric-safe and avoiding surface wetness issues.
Implementation Method 1
the polymer agglomerates particulates in the air and thereby reduces particulates in the air
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for reducing particulates in the air are disclosed. In some embodiments, the method comprises spraying a composition having an effective amount of a zwitterionic polymer, a compressed gas propellant, and an aqueous carrier in to the air. The composition agglomerates particulates upon contacting particulates in the air thereby reducing particulates in the air.