The principle of the dishwasher capsule water-soluble film technology is mainly based on the dissolution characteristics of water-soluble high-molecular materials. Through specific processes, the detergent is encapsulated within the film to achieve precise release and efficient cleaning during the washing process. The following analysis is conducted from three aspects: material properties, packaging process, and dissolution mechanism:
First, material properties: Application of water-soluble polymer materials
The core material of water-soluble membranes is water-soluble high-molecular polymers, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, etc. This type of material has the following key characteristics:
Hydrophilicity: The molecular structure contains a large number of hydroxyl groups (-OH), which form hydrogen bonds with water molecules and rapidly absorb moisture and dissolve upon contact with water.
Mechanical strength: Through cross-linking or modification treatment, the film material has sufficient flexibility and tear resistance in a dry state, capable of withstanding external forces during packaging and transportation.
Biodegradability: The residue after dissolution can be decomposed by microorganisms, reducing environmental pollution.
Second, packaging process: multi-layer structure and precise measurement
The encapsulation process of water-soluble films needs to take into account both sealing and solubility. Common technologies include:
Thermoforming and sealing
Heat the water-soluble membrane to a softened state and shape it into a capsule groove structure through a mold.
After filling with detergent, it is covered with another layer of film and heat-sealed to form a closed capsule chamber.
Multi-layer composite film
The outer membrane dissolves relatively quickly, ensuring that the capsule releases the surfactant rapidly upon contact with water.
The inner film dissolves relatively slowly, controlling the release rhythm of the core components to achieve a “phased dissolution” effect.
Measurement control
The interior of the capsule is designed with compartments to separate different ingredients (such as surfactants, enzyme preparations, and bleach) to prevent mutual reactions.
The thickness and composition of the membrane can adjust the dissolution rate to adapt to different washing programs (such as quick wash and standard wash).
Third, dissolution mechanism: Environmental triggering and dynamic release
The dissolution process of water-soluble membranes is influenced by the following factors:
Temperature and humidity
After the dishwasher is started, the high-temperature water flow (60-80℃) accelerates the dissolution of the film.
The membrane material dissolves relatively slowly at low temperatures, but its low-temperature solubility can be optimized through modification.
Water flow and mechanical interaction
The high-pressure water flow from the spray arm impacts the capsule, accelerating the rupture and dissolution of the membrane.
After the film dissolves, the detergent is dispersed to the surface of the tableware with the water flow, forming a cleaning foam.
Dynamic control of component release
After the outer film dissolves, the surfactant is released first to remove the oil stains.
After the inner film dissolves, enzyme preparations and bleach are gradually released to decompose stubborn stains and disinfect.
Fourth, Technical advantages and Challenges
Advantages:
Convenience: Users do not need to weigh the detergent manually; they can directly add the capsules.
Accuracy: Capsule encapsulation can prevent detergent from getting damp and clumping, ensuring a consistent dosage each time.
Environmental friendliness: Water-soluble films reduce plastic packaging waste and meet the requirements of sustainable development.
Challenge:
Cost: The price of water-soluble membrane materials is higher than that of traditional plastics, and costs need to be reduced through large-scale production.
Dissolution control: It is necessary to balance the dissolution rate of the membrane with the duration of the washing program to avoid releasing it too early or too late.
Component compatibility: Different detergent components may affect the solubility of the membrane, and this issue needs to be addressed through formula optimization.
