Sulfonated Polystyrene Derivatives for Diverse Industrial Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
Expanding the scope of sulfonated polystyrene derivatives beyond veterinary medicine to tackle pressing problems in water purification, industrial equipment maintenance, cosmetics, wastewater treatment, and medical device hygiene.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed the use of sulfonated polystyrene derivatives for treating and preventing cat flu. However, the unique properties of these derivatives have untapped potential for addressing significant challenges in various industries. The new inventive concept bridges this gap by applying the core technology to novel applications, thereby providing innovative solutions for diverse industrial problems.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims leverage the versatility of sulfonated polystyrene derivatives, particularly sodium polystyrene sulfonate, to develop systems and methods for: (1) removing impurities from water, (2) reducing bacterial growth in industrial equipment, (3) creating emulsifiers for cosmetic products, (4) treating wastewater, and (5) preventing biofilm formation on medical devices. These applications capitalize on the derivatives' ability to interact with various surfaces, emulsify, and inhibit microbial growth, offering a range of benefits across industries.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in the application of sulfonated polystyrene derivatives, transitioning from veterinary medicine to diverse industrial uses. This inventive step lies in recognizing the derivatives' untapped potential and adapting their properties to solve pressing problems in unrelated fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may involve the use of different metal cations, molecular weights, or functional groups in the sulfonated polystyrene derivatives. Variations could include combining these derivatives with other compounds or materials to enhance their performance in specific applications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The new inventive concept has far-reaching commercial potential, targeting industries such as water treatment, industrial manufacturing, cosmetics, wastewater management, and medical device production. The market for these applications is substantial, with opportunities for partnerships, licensing, and product development.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Polymer chemistry, surface chemistry, and materials science with a focus on functionalized polymers and their industrial applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A researcher or engineer with advanced degree in chemistry or materials science, familiar with polymer modification techniques, surface interactions, and cross-industry applications of specialized polymeric compounds
Obviousness Rationale
The source patent establishes sodium polystyrene sulfonate as an effective compound with specific surface interaction properties. A PHOSITA would recognize these inherent characteristics as broadly applicable across multiple domains beyond veterinary medicine. The PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the original compound's known chemical behavior and surface interaction mechanisms.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,566 |
|---|---|
| Title | Sulfonated polystyrene derivative for use in the treatment and/or prophylaxis of cat flu |
| Assignee(s) | UNIWERSYTET JAGIELLONSKI |