| United States Patent Application |
20030198689
|
| Kind Code
|
A1
|
|
Arata, Andrew B.
|
October 23, 2003
|
Disinfectant and method of making
Abstract
A non-toxic environmentally friendly aqueous disinfectant is disclosed for
specific use as prevention against contamination by potentially
pathogenic bacteria and virus. The aqueous disinfectant is formulated by
electrolytically generating silver ions in water in combination with a
citric acid. The aqueous disinfectant may include a suitable alcohol
and/or a detergent. The aqueous disinfectant has been shown to be very
effective at eliminating standard indicator organisms such as
staphylococcus aureus, salmonella cholerasuis and pseudomonas aeruginosa.
| Inventors: |
Arata, Andrew B.; (Lake City, FL)
|
| Correspondence Name and Address:
|
FRIJOUF, RUST & PYLE, P.A.
201 East Davis Boulevard
Tampa
FL
33606
US
|
| Assignee Name and Adress: |
Innovative Medical Services
El Cajon
CA
|
| Serial No.:
|
434742 |
| Series Code:
|
10
|
| Filed:
|
May 9, 2003 |
| U.S. Current Class: |
424/618; 514/495 |
| U.S. Class at Publication: |
424/618; 514/495 |
| Intern'l Class: |
A61K 031/28; A61K 033/38 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An aqueous disinfectant, comprising: an aqueous solution of silver ion
organic acid complex wherein the silver is electrolytically generated in
a solution of the organic acid and water.
2. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
electrolytically generated silver forms an organic metal complex with the
organic acid.
3. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
electrolytically generated silver forms a chelated organic metal complex
with the organic acid.
4. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
electrolytically generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid
of (Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group
of organic acids having the characteristic of an acid as well as the
characteristic of an alcohol.
5. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
electrolytically generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid
of (Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group
consisting of ascorbic acid, citric acid, glycollic acid, lactic acid,
maleic acid, tartaric acid.
6. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the
electrolytically generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid
of (Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group
consisting of acetic acid, aspartic acid, cis-cyclohexane dicarboxylic
acid, chloracetic acid, malic, malonic acid, propionic acid and/or
succinic acid and the amino acids dl-cysteine and cystine.
7. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume.
8. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 1, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume; and approximately 0.0005% to 0.001% by volume of silver
ion-organic acid complex formed by the electrolytically generated silver.
9. An aqueous disinfectant, comprising: an aqueous solution of silver
ion-organic acid complex in a solution of organic acid and water wherein
the concentration of silver ion organic acid complex exceeds 0.05% by
volume.
10. An aqueous disinfectant, comprising: an aqueous solution of silver ion
organic acid complex formed from electrolytically generated silver in a
solution of organic acid and water; and approximately 20% alcohol by
volume.
11. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 10, wherein the alcohol
is approximately 20% ethyl alcohol (EtOH) by volume.
12. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 10, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume.
13. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 10, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume: and the electrolytically generated silver comprising
approximately 0.0005% to 0.001% by volume.
14. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 10, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume: and the electrolytically generated silver comprising
approximately 0.05% to 0.1% by volume.
15. An aqueous disinfectant, comprising: an aqueous solution of silver-ion
organic acid complex formed from electrolytically generated silver in a
solution of organic acid and water; approximately 20% ethyl alcohol by
volume; and approximately 0.01% to 0.1% anionic detergent by volume.
16. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 15, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume.
17. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 15, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume; and approximately 0.0005% to 0.001% by volume of silver
ion organic acid complex formed by the electrolytically generated silver.
18. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 15, wherein the solution
of organic acid and water comprises approximately 2% or greater organic
acid by volume: and the electrolytically generated silver comprising
approximately 0.05% to 0.1% by volume.
19. An aqueous disinfectant as set forth in claim 15, wherein the
detergent is sodium dodecyl sulfate.
20. The process of making a disinfectant, comprising the step of:
electrolytically generating silver in a solution of organic acid and
water to formed an aqueous solution of silver ion organic acid complex.
21. The process of making a disinfectant as set forth in claim 20, wherein
the step of electrolytically generating silver includes forming an
organic metal complex with the organic acid.
22. The process of making a disinfectant as set forth in claim 20, wherein
the step of electrolytically generating silver includes forming a
chelated organic metal complex with the organic acid.
23. The process of making a disinfectant as set forth in claim 20, wherein
the step of electrolytically generating silver includes forming a complex
with the organic acid of (Ag(OA)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid
selected from a group of organic acids having the characteristic of an
acid as well as the characteristic of an alcohol.
24. The process of making a disinfectant as set forth in claim 20, wherein
the step of electrolytically generating silver includes forming a complex
with the organic acid of (Ag(OA)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid
selected from a group consisting of ascorbic acid, citric acid, glycollic
acid, lactic acid, malic acid and/or tartaric acid.
25. The process of making a disinfectant as set forth in claim 20, wherein
the step of electrolytically generating silver includes forming a complex
with the organic acid of (Ag(OA)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid
selected from a group consisting of acetic acid, aspartic acid,
cis-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid, chloracetic acid, dl-cysteine acid,
dl-cyctine acid, malic, malonic acid, propionic acid and/or succinic acid
and the amino acids dl-cysteine and cystine.
26. The process of making an improved aqueous disinfectant, comprising the
step of: creating a solution of approximately 2% or greater organic acid
in water by volume; spacing a positive silver electrode relative to a
negative electrode for enabling the solution to be located therebetween;
applying a potential difference to the positive and negative electrodes
to establish a flow of silver ions between the positive and negative
electrodes for enabling the silver ions to react with the organic acid to
form a silver ion organic acid complex thereby.
27. The process of making an improved aqueous disinfectant as set forth in
claim 26, wherein the step of spacing a positive silver electrode
relative to a negative electrode includes spacing the positive silver
electrode from the negative electrode a distance sufficient to enable
silver ion flow therebetween.
28. The process of making an improved aqueous disinfectant as set forth in
claim 26, wherein the step of spacing a positive silver electrode
relative to a negative electrode includes spacing the positive silver
electrode greater than 2.0 mm. from the negative electrode.
29. The process of making an improved aqueous disinfectant as set forth in
claim 26, wherein the step of applying a potential difference to the
positive and negative electrodes includes applying a potential difference
to establish a flow of silver ions in the range of 0.1 amperes to 0.5
amperes.
30. An aqueous solution of a silver ion-organic acid complex, comprising:
an aqueous solution of a silver ion organic acid complex in a solution of
organic acid and water wherein the concentration of a silver ion-organic
acid complex exceeds 0.05% by volume.
31. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex, comprising
the step of: electrolytically generating silver in a solution of organic
acid and water to form an aqueous solution of a silver ion-organic acid
complex.
32. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex as set forth
in claim 31, wherein the step of electrolytically generating silver
includes forming an organic metal complex with the organic acid.
33. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex as set forth
in claim 31, wherein the step of electrolytically generating silver
includes forming a chelated organic metal complex with the organic acid.
34. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex as set forth
in claim 31, wherein the step of electrolytically generating silver
includes forming a complex with the organic acid of (Ag+OA-), wherein OA
is an organic acid selected from a group of organic acids having the
characteristic of an acid as well as the characteristic of an alcohol.
35. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex as set forth
in claim 31, wherein the step of electrolytically generating silver
includes forming a complex with the organic acid of (Ag+OA-), wherein OA
is an organic acid selected from a group consisting of ascorbic acid,
citric acid, glycollic acid, lactic acid, maleic acid, tartaric acid.
36. The process of making a silver ion-organic acid complex as set forth
in claim 31, wherein the step of electrolytically generating silver
includes forming a complex with the organic acid of (Ag+OA-), wherein OA
is an organic acid selected from a group consisting of acetic acid,
aspartic acid, cis-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid, chloracetic acid,
malic, malonic acid, propionic acid and/or succinic acid and the amino
acids dl-cysteine and cystine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Patent Provisional
application serial No. 60/128,212 filed Apr. 7, 1999. All subject matter
set forth in provisional application serial No. 60/128,212 is hereby
incorporated by reference into the present application as if fully set
forth herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to disinfectants and more particularly to an
environmentally friendly, non-toxic aqueous disinfectant for specific use
against pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
[0004] 2. Prior Art Statement
[0005] The prior art has demonstrated that the presence of copper and
silver ions in an aqueous solution is useful as a disinfectant. Many in
the prior art have used copper and silver ions in an aqueous solution as
a disinfectant in water systems such as cooling towers, swimming pools,
hot water systems in hospitals, potable water systems, spa pools and the
like.
[0006] Typically, copper and silver electrodes were connected to a direct
current power supply. When the direct current was applied to the copper
and silver electrodes, copper and silver ions were generated by an
electrolysis process producing copper and silver ions within the water.
In one example of the prior art, water was passed continuously through an
ion chamber having copper and silver electrodes. The water emanating from
the ion chamber contained the copper and silver ions generated by copper
and silver electrodes within the ion chamber. The water emanating from
the ion chamber containing the copper and silver ions was used as a
disinfectant in water systems such as cooling towers, swimming pools, hot
water systems in hospitals, potable water systems, spa pools and the
like. The copper and silver ions within the water systems acted as a
disinfectant for controlling algae, viruses, bacteria and the like.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 3,422,183 to Ellison discloses biocide compositions
comprising ultra-violet irradiated silver fluoride solutions containing
colloidal silver resulting from the irradiation and kept in dispersion by
a protective colloid, e.g., casein or gelatin, and biocide uses thereof
in slime control, against pathogens or other microbes in food or beverage
containers or processing equipment, as an ingredient of wood
preservatives, as a bactericide in paints, as a biocide in synthetic
polymer films, as a sterilant in bandages, and biocide-like uses in other
areas.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 3,702,298 to Zsoldos discloses a method of
maintaining a highly oxidizing aqueous solution intended primarily for
treatment of swimming pool water. A metal having a multiple valence is
interacted to a lower valence with oxidizable debris in the solution, and
the metal is continuously re-oxidized to a higher valence by maintaining
in the water a constant excess of an oxidizer bank consisting of a salt
of a peroxy acid. Silver, copper and nickel are suitable metals and their
salts have germicidal properties which are greatly increased and the
spectrum broadened by converting the mono salt to a divalent or trivalent
salt.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,180,473 to Maurer et al. discloses a method of
transporting metal ions by introducing a metal complex into a medium
containing a moiety which demands the metal ion and the complex releases
the ions in a controlled manner upon demand. The metal complexes have an
aqueous proton induced dissociation property represented by a
sigmoidally-shaped curve on a Cartesian coordinate plot of the negative
log of the metal ion concentration versus the negative log of hydrogen
ion concentration. This dissociation property causes a controlled release
of metal ion into mediums containing a reacting moiety upon demand for
the metal ion. For example, metal working emulsions of oil and water are
stabilized by the addition thereto of minor amounts of a metal complex,
e.g. disodium monocopper (II) citrate, which at alkaline pH metalworking
conditions above about 7 to about 9 releases metal cations to the
emulsions imparting stabilizing characteristics which prevent emulsion
degradation by a number of factors commonly encountered in metalworking
operations. Also, the method is effective in the controlled release of
metal ions in the normal range of physiological pH, i.e. about 4 to 9,
for growth controlling action against microorganisms including bacteria,
fungi and viruses.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,291,125 to Greatbatch discloses a method and
apparatus for killing plant and animal bacteria and plant viroids by
electrically generated silver ions. The silver ions serve as germicidal
agents in infection control and are generated by very slow electrical
anodic corrosion of a silver wire located closely adjacent the infection
site. In particular, a silver anode and a cathode of non-corroding metal
are located in an electrolytic nutrient medium with the silver anode
being within five millimeters of the infection site, and a direct voltage
is applied to the anode and cathode in a manner passing a positive
current in the microampere range into the silver anode causing it to
corrode slightly and give off silver ions which produce a germicidal
environment about the infection site.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,385,632 to Odelhog discloses an absorbent body for
collecting blood, feces and urine containing a water-soluble copper salt
which impedes bacterial growth, prevents the breaking-down of urea into
ammonia and complex-binds ammonia so as to prevent the occurrence of
unpleasant odor. Preferably copper acetate is used, in which even the
acetate ion has germicidal effect.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 4,564,461 to Skold et al. discloses mechanical
working of cast iron performed in the presence of an aqueous metal
working composition containing an organic copper (II) complex and an iron
corrosion inhibitor. An aqueous concentrate, which after dilution with
water is suitable for application in mechanical working of cast iron,
contains 1-50% copper (II) complex with such a Cu.sub.2+ content of
0.5-20%, 1-50% iron corrosion inhibitor, 0-50% lubricant, 0-20%
pH-regulators, bactericides and solubilizing agents and 10-70% water.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 4,608,183 to Rossmoore discloses antimicrobial
mixtures of isothiazolones and a metal complex with a polyfunctional
ligand which are synergistic. The mixtures particularly include mixtures
of a monocopper disodium citrate as the ligand and a 5-x-2-lower alkyl
4-isothiazolin-3-one wherein x is a halo or hydrogen group as the
isothiazolone. The compositions are particularly useful for metal cutting
fluids wherein long duration antimicrobial activity is desired.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,666,616 to Rossmoore discloses synergistic
anti-microbial compositions containing a mixture of a metal complex of a
polyfunctional organic liquid and a biocidal composition which contains
or releases a lower aldehyde containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms. The
compositions are particularly useful as metal working fluids at alkaline
pH and have a broad spectrum of activity against fungi and bacterial.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,808 to Rossmoore discloses synergistic
anti-mircrobial compositions containing a mixture of a metal complex of a
polyfunctional organic ligand and a biocidal composition which contains
or releases a lower aldehyde containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms. The
compositions are particularly useful as metal working fluids at alkaline
pH and have a broad spectrum of activity against fungi and bacteria.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 4,780,216 to Wojtowicz discloses a sanitizing
composition consisting essentially of a mixture of a calcium hypochlorite
compound and a peroxydisulfate compound having the formula:
M.sub.xS.sub.2O.sub.8 where M is an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal,
and x is 1 or 2 is employed in treating water to improve pH control and
provide increased removal of organic materials. The compositions provide
improved sanitation of water in swimming pools, spas, and cooling towers
by efficiently oxidizing organic impurities while helping to minimize the
increase in the pH of the water. This permits a reduction in the amount
and frequency of addition of acidic compounds such as hydrochloric acid
to the water bodies. Further, the incorporation of additives such as
algaecides, dispersant, and clarifying agents provides for significant
improvements in water quality as evidenced by sparkling pure water.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 4,915,955 to Gomori discloses a concentrate with an
unlimited shelf-life, which can be mixed with hydrogen peroxide at a
ratio of 1:99 to 1:199 to become an effective disinfectant, is obtained
when a viscous solution of inorganic acid, with a pH less than or equal
to 1.6, is mixed with a silver salt compound or a
colloidal silver
compound at 50.degree. to 66.degree. C. The mixture is further combined
at room temperature with other inorganic acid(s) to reach a total of 100
g inorganic acid(s) per liter of water at room temperature, an organic
acid stabilizer is added and the mixture is homogenized. The concentrate,
during storage, remains homogeneous and crystal-clear.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 4,933,178 to Capelli discloses a medical device with
an antimicrobial coating that is safe, effective, photostable and readily
manufacturable produced by applying a composition to at least one body
fluid-contacting surface of the device such that a solid coating is
provided on that surface, the coating composition comprising an
oligodynamic metal salt of a sulfonylurea, a polymeric material, at least
one acid compound selected from the group consisting of a water-soluble
carboxylic acid and water-insoluble carboxylic acid, and a carrier liquid
in which foregoing components are soluble. The antimicrobial coating
accommodates variation in the release of antimicrobial metal ions as a
function of the intended use for a medical device to which the coating is
applied.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 5,017,295 to Antelman discloses a method or methods
of controlling the growth of bacteria in the water of swimming pools
and/or industrial water supplies by adding to the water a specified
concentration of a stable divalent silver compound. The invention has the
advantage over chlorination in that it is odorless and non-volatile. It
furthermore is superior to monovalent silver compounds as these compounds
do not decompose in the presence of light and resist precipitation by
halides and form divalent soluble complexes which in the monovalent state
are invariably insoluble solids.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 5,073,382 to Antelman discloses a solid alkaline
bactericidal composition suitable for compounding alkaline end products
such as food and dairy cleaners and surgical scrubbing soaps, formed by
the neutralization of acid stabilized inorganic divalent silver complexes
and capable of effecting 100% kills upon cultures of anaerobic bacteria
colonies of 100K/cc. within 5 minutes.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 5,078,902 to Antelman discloses divalent silver
halides providing a source for divalent bactericidal silver ions in the
presence of persulfate. The halides are especially effective when applied
to water used in industrial cooling installations, hot tubs and swimming
pools and will conform to stringent EPA requirements for waters utilized
for bathing as in tubs and pools of 100% kills of 100K/cc E. Coli
coliforms within 10 minutes, exemplary of which are the chloride and
bromide which give 100% kills within 5 minutes. The halides, of course,
can be used in salty water since they are solids immune from halide
action that would otherwise precipitate soluble divalent silver from
solution.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 5,089,275 discloses solid bactericidal compositions
based on divalent silver (Ag(II)) as the active sanitized agent. The
compositions are prepared by reacting acid liquid Ag(II) complexes with
anhydrous calcium sulfate so as to form a solid matrix in which the
bactericide is entrapped in the resulting hydrated calcium sulfate. The
optimum compositions are described consisting of Ag(II) of solid (by
weight) to liquid (by volume) being 5:2. The resulting solid bactericides
can be used in water cooling installations. They are capable of causing
100% kills within 10 minutes of E. Coli conforms in conformity with EPA
protocols, allowing them to qualify as swimming pool and hot tub
sanitizers. Since the compositions are based on calcium sulfate, they are
also suitable as mineralizers, thus providing a dual function.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,511 to Gay et al. discloses a process for
sanitizing water in swimming pools, spas and hot tubs whereby the level
of bacteria in said water is lowered comprising treating said water with
a bactericidal effective amount of a combination of diisodecyl dimethyl
ammonium chloride and copper (II) ions, the concentration of diisodecyl
dimethyl ammonium chloride in said water being less than about 60 parts
per million parts of water by weight and treating said water at least
intermittently with an oxidant selected from the group consisting of
available chlorine and ozone.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 5,364,649 to Rossmoore et al. discloses activity of
antimicrobial compounds selected from isothiazolones and compounds which
release formaldehyde enhanced with a metal complex of a lower
alkanolamine, particularly copper (cupric) trietha-iolamine. The
enhancement is particularly useful in metalworking fluids.
[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 5,373,025 to Gay discloses a sanitizer composition
comprising a bactericidal effective amount of the combination of (a) a
quaternary ammonium compound selected from the group consisting of
(hydrogenated tallow) 2-ethylhexyl dirnethyl ammonium salt, dicoco
dimethyl ammonium salt, and mixtures thereof; and (b) a copper (II) ion
source.
[0026] U.S. Pat. No. 5,382,337 to Wlassics et al. discloses a process for
oxidizing organic materials or compounds in aqueous phase, with hydrogen
peroxide and in the presence of ferrous ions Fe(II), and optionally
cupric ions Cu-(II), carried out under irradiation with artificial
visible light.
[0027] U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,559 to Marchin et al. discloses a composition
provided for treating drinking water for disinfecting and/or removing
iodide. The composition utilizes resin bound silver ions. For performing
the disinfection or iodide removal with minimal release of silver ions
into the water being treated, a chelating resin having iminodiacetate
chelating groups is employed, and the resin is loaded with not over 0.5
mole of silver ions per mole of iminodiacetate.
[0028] U.S. Pat. No. 5,503,840 to Jacobson et al. discloses an
antimicrobial composition of titanium dioxide, barium sulfate, zinc oxide
particles, and mixtures thereof having successive coatings of silver, in
some cases a coating of zinc and/or copper compounds such as zinc oxide,
copper (II) oxide and zinc silicate; silicon dioxide; alumina; and a
dispersion aid such as dioctyl azelate.
[0029] U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,109 to Tomioka et al discloses an antibacterial
and antifungal composition which comprises an antibacterial and
antifungal material carried on a porous particle carrier. Preferably, the
porous particle carrier is a silica gel particle. The antibacterial and
antifungal material is at least one metal complex salt, and can contain
plant extracts and the like in addition to the metal complex salt. At
least a portion of the surface of the above-mentioned carrier having the
antibacterial and antifungal composition can be coated with a coating
material.
[0030] Unfortunately, these copper and silver ions within an aqueous
solution have only a limited stable ionic life. After a limited time, the
copper and silver ions form complexes with other elements thus
diminishing the concentration of the copper and silver ions within the
aqueous solution. Accordingly, the aqueous solution had to be replenished
with copper and silver ions to maintain the concentration of the copper
and silver ions within the aqueous solution. The aqueous solution may be
replenished with copper and silver ions by constantly circulating the
aqueous solution thorough the ion chamber.
[0031] In my prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/169,229 filed Oct.
9, 1998 and Internation application PCT.backslash.US98.backslash.21604, I
disclosed an aqueous disinfectant solution having a stable ionic form
having an extended useful shelf-life. The extended useful shelf-life of
the disinfectant of the present invention enables the disinfectant to be
packaged in an aqueous concentrate form. The extended useful shelf-life
of the aqueous disinfectant solution enables the aqueous disinfectant
solution to be packaged in an aqueous concentrate form.
[0032] It is an object of the present invention to expand upon my prior
invention by providing an improved disinfectant and the method of making
comprising an aqueous disinfectant for specific use as prevention against
contamination by potentially pathogenic bacteria and virus and antifungal
properties.
[0033] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which is an effective disinfectant
for eliminating standard indicator organisms such as staphylococcus
aureus, salmonella cholerasuis and pseudomonas aeruginosa.
[0034] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which is a non-toxic,
environmentally friendly aqueous disinfectant.
[0035] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which comprises a stable ionic
formulation having an extended useful shelf-life.
[0036] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be packaged in a
concentrated aqueous form.
[0037] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be electrolytically
generated in a batch process or a continuous process.
[0038] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which is electrolytically generated
in an economical manner.
[0039] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which is suitable for use with an
alcohol and/or a detergent.
[0040] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used on exposed and/or
contaminated surfaces to kill bacteria, virus, fungi and other
micro-organisms.
[0041] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used on contaminated
open wounds and tissue, dermal wound sites and/or lesions of living
organisms such as animals and humans.
[0042] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used on exposed
surfaces in food processing plants, residential, hospital, restaurants,
public facilities and the like.
[0043] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used to control
bio-film, microbes, algae and the like.
[0044] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used to control
microbes in or on agricultural and food items and drinking water.
[0045] Another object of this invention is to provide an improved
disinfectant and the method of making which may be used to control
microbes in paint additive for mildew control in paints.
[0046] The foregoing has outlined some of the more pertinent objects of
the present invention. These objects should be construed as being merely
illustrative of some of the more prominent features and applications of
the invention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by applying
the disclosed invention in a different manner or modifying the invention
with in the scope of the invention. Accordingly other objects in a full
understanding of the invention may be had by referring to the summary of
the invention, the detailed description describing the preferred
embodiment in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the
claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0047] A specific embodiment of the present invention is described and
shown in the attached Detailed Description. For the purpose of
summarizing the invention, the invention relates to an improved non-toxic
environmentally friendly aqueous disinfectant for use as a prevention
against contamination by potentially pathogenic bacteria, virus and
fungi. The improved aqueous disinfectant is suitable for use on exposed
surfaces. In addition, the improved aqueous disinfectant is suitable for
use on dermal wound sites and lesions of living organisms such as animals
and humans. The aqueous disinfectant pH varies from 2 to 7.
[0048] The aqueous disinfectant is incorporated into an aqueous solution
of silver ion organic acid complex wherein the silver is electrolytically
generated in a solution of the organic acid and water. The
electrolytically generated silver forms an organic metal complex with the
organic acid. In one example of the invention, the electrolytically
generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid of
(Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group of
organic acids having the characteristic of an acid as well as the
characteristic of an alcohol. In another example of the invention, the
electrolytically generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid
of (Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group
consisting of ascorbic acid, citric acid, glycollic acid, lactic acid,
maleic acid, tartaric acid. In a further example of the invention, the
electrolytically generated silver forms a complex with the organic acid
of (Ag(CO)x)+(OA)-, wherein OA is an organic acid selected from a group
consisting of acetic acid, aspartic acid, cis-cyclohexane dicarboxylic
acid, chloracetic acid, dl-cysteine acid, dl-cyctine acid, malic, malonic
acid, propionic acid, succinic acid.
[0049] The aqueous disinfectant may be combined with an alcohol such as
ethyl alcohol (EtOH) and/or a detergent such as sodium dodecyl sulfate.
[0050] The invention is also incorporated into the process of making the
disinfectant comprising the step of electrolytically generating silver in
a solution of organic acid and water to form an aqueous solution of the
silver organic acid. The process may include creating a solution of
approximately 2% or greater organic acid in water by volume. A positive
silver electrode is spaced relative to a negative electrode for enabling
the solution to be located therebetween. A potential difference is
applied to the positive and negative electrodes to establish a flow of
silver ions between the positive and negative electrodes for enabling the
silver ions to react with the organic acid to form silver ion-organic
acid complex thereby.
[0051] The invention is also incorporated into the process of making
silver ion organic acid complex, comprising the step of electrolytically
generating silver in a solution of an organic acid and water to formed an
aqueous solution of the silver ion organic acid complex.
[0052] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and
important features of the present invention in order that the detailed
description that follows may be better understood so that the present
contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional
features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the
subject of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in
the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be
readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures
for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should
also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent
constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0053] For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the
invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description
taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0054] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a first process of making the disinfectant
of the present invention;
[0055] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a second process of making the disinfectant
of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 3 is an enlarged detailed view of the ion chamber of FIGS. 1
and 2; and
[0057] FIG. 4 is an enlarged detailed view of an ion chamber suitable for
making the disinfectant of the present invention in a batch process.
[0058] Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the
several Figures of the drawings.
DETAILED DISCUSSION
[0059] Process of Making
[0060] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a first process 10 of making the
disinfectant 14 of the present invention. The first process 10 is shown
as a continuous process of making the disinfectant 14. It should be
understood that the first process 10 of FIG. 1 is only an example of a
process and numerous other variations and/or processes may be utilized to
make the disinfectant 14 of the present invention.
[0061] The disinfectant 14 may be used immediately for any suitable
application such as a disinfectant in a water system including cooling
towers, hot water systems, potable water systems, or any other suitable
application or surface.
[0062] The first process 10 comprises a water input conduit 16 for
introducing water 18 from a water source (not shown) to a water treatment
unit shown as a reverse osmosis unit 20. The reverse osmosis unit 20
passes the water 18 from the water input conduit 16 through a
semi-permeable membrane (not shown) for removing impurities from the
water. Although the water treatment unit is shown as a reverse osmosis
unit 20 it should be understood that various water treatment units may be
employed within the process shown in FIG. 1. Preferably, the water 18
emanating from the reverse osmosis unit 20 is deionized medically pure
water.
[0063] The water 18 emanating from the reverse osmosis unit 20 is directed
to a valve 30 through a conduit 31. The valve 30 directs the water 18
though a conduit 32 to a flow control injector 40. An organic acid tank
50 contains concentrated organic acid. The concentrated organic acid is
directed by a conduit 51 to a metering valve 60 for metering the
concentrated organic acid into the flow control injector 40. The flow
control injector 40 mixes the concentrated organic acid with the water 18
to provide a dilute organic acid solution 62. The metering valve 60
controls the concentration of the organic acid within the water 18. The
diluted organic acid solution 62 is directed by a conduit 62 into an ion
chamber 70.
[0064] FIG. 3 is an enlarged detailed view of the ion chamber 70 of FIG.
1. The ion chamber 5 70 includes a positive and a negative electrode 71
and 72. The positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72 are located in a
spaced apart position for enabling the diluted organic acid solution 62
to pass between the positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72. Each of
the positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72 is fabricated from
elemental silver. Preferably, the positive and negative electrodes 71 and
72 are formed from 99.9999% pure elemental silver.
[0065] A direct current power supply 80 includes a positive and a negative
conductor 81 and 82 connected to the positive and negative electrodes 71
and 72. The positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72 are spaced apart a
suitable distance such as 2.0 to 8.0 centimeters to allow an ionic
current flow between the positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72.
[0066] Upon energizing the direct current power supply 80, an ion current
flows between the positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72. The direct
ion current flow between the positive and negative electrodes 71 and 72
produces electrolytically free silver ions within the diluted organic
acid solution 62. The silver ions react with the organic acid in the
diluted organic acid solution 62 to produce the disinfectant 14 of the
present invention.
[0067] The disinfectant 14 is directed by a conduit 86 to a settling tank
90. The settling tank 90 includes an overflow conduit 91 and a drain
conduit 92. The disinfectant 14 exits the settling tank 90 through the
overflow conduit 91. Any precipitated materials from the disinfectant 14
within the settling tank 90 fall to the bottom of the settling tank 90.
The precipitated materials at the bottom of the settling tank 90 may be
removed through the drain conduit 92 to a purge tank 100. The
precipitated materials in the purge tank 100 may be recycled.
[0068] The disinfectant 14 exiting through the overflow conduit 91 from
the settling tank 90 is directed to a particle filter 110. Although the
particle filter 110 may be any suitable filter, preferably the particle
filter 110 is a submicron filter. The filtered disinfectant 14 is
directed to a valve 120 by a conduit 121. The valve 120 directs the
filtered disinfectant 14 to a conduit 122 for discharge from the first
process 10.
[0069] The filtered disinfectant 14 discharged from conduit 122 may be
used immediately for any suitable application such as a disinfectant in a
water system or any other suitable application. In the event a greater
concentration of the disinfectant 14 is desired, the disinfectant 14 may
be recirculated for increasing the concentration of the disinfectant 14.
[0070] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a second process 10A of making the
disinfectant 14 of the present in a concentrated form. The second process
10A is shown as a recirculating process of making the disinfectant 14 and
for increasing the concentration of the disinfectant 14. In the
concentrated form, the disinfectant 14 may be bottled for use at a later
time. It should be understood that the second process 10A of FIG. 2 is
only an example of a process and numerous other variations and/or
processes may be utilized to make the disinfectant 14 of the present
invention.
[0071] In the second process 10A shown in FIG. 2, the valve 30 and 120 are
moved into positions opposite to the positions shown in FIG. 1. The valve
120 directs the filtered disinfectant 14 to a conduit 123. The conduit
123 is connected through a conduit 130 to the conduit 32 of the valve 30.
[0072] The valve 30 directs the filtered disinfectant 14 though the
conduit 32 to the flow control injector 40. Additional concentrated
organic acid is directed through the metering valve 60 into the flow
control injector 40. The flow control injector 40 mixes the concentrated
organic acid with the filtered disinfectant 14 to increase the
concentration of the organic acid solution 62A.
[0073] The organic acid solution 62A is directed into an ion chamber 70 to
produce additional silver ions within the organic acid solution 62A. The
silver ions react with the organic acid in the organic acid solution 62A
to increase the concentration of the disinfectant 14. The disinfectant 14
is passed through the settling tank 90 to exit through the overflow
conduit 91. The disinfectant 14 is filtered by the particle filter 110
and is directed to the valve 120 by the conduit 121.
[0074] The valve 30 and 120 are maintained in positions shown in FIG. 2 to
continue to recirculate the disinfectant 14 for increasing the
concentration of the disinfectant 14. Upon obtaining the desired
concentration of the disinfectant 14, the valve 120 may be moved to the
position shown in FIG. 1 to discharge the disinfectant 14 from the
conduit 122.
[0075] FIG. 4 is an enlarged detailed view of an ion chamber 170 suitable
for making the disinfectant of the present invention in a batch process.
The ion chamber 170 includes a positive and a negative electrode 171 and
172. Each of the positive and negative electrodes 171 and 172 is
fabricated from 99.9999% pure elemental silver.
[0076] The positive and negative electrodes 171 and 172 are located in a
spaced apart position for enabling the organic acid solution 162 to pass
between the positive and negative electrodes 171 and 172. Preferably, the
positive silver electrode 171 is spaced relative to a negative electrode
172 a distance sufficient to enable silver ion flow therebetween. The
spacing of the positive and negative electrodes 171 and 172 has been
shown in an exaggerated fashion in FIG. 4. Preferably, a spacing of
approximately 2.0 to 8.0 mm. has been found to be suitable for the above
concentration of organic acid and water.
[0077] A direct current power supply 180 includes a positive and a
negative conductor 181 and 182 connected to the positive and negative
electrodes 171 and 172. Upon energizing the direct current power supply
180, an ion current flows between the positive and negative electrodes
171 and 172. The direct ion current flow between the positive and
negative electrodes 171 and 172 produces electrolytically free silver
ions within the organic acid solution 162. The silver ions react with the
organic acid in the organic acid solution 162 to produce the disinfectant
14 of the present invention.
[0078] The process of making a disinfectant comprises electrolytically
generating silver ions in a solution of organic acid and water to form an
aqueous solution of silver ion organic acid complex. Preferably, the
solution of organic acid and water comprises a solution of approximately
5.0% to 10% organic acid in water by volume. A potential difference of 12
volts to 50 volts provides a flow of silver ions in the range of 0.1
amperes to 0.5 amperes per square inch. A more fuller explanation of the
content of the solution within the ion chamber 170 will be described in
greater detail hereinafter.
[0079] The prior art has established in that the generation of both silver
ions and copper ion in water provides the best disinfectant properties.
The combination of silver ions and copper ions provides superior
disinfecting properties than either silver ions alone or copper ions
alone. This synergistic effect of silver ions and copper ions in water
has been well established by the prior art.
[0080] In contrast to this established prior art, the disinfectant of the
present invention is formed in a solution of organic acid and water
rather than water alone. Additionally, the disinfectant of the present
invention has superior properties with only silver ions alone rather than
the combination of both silver ions and copper ions. The silver ions of
the present process react with the organic acid to form the silver ion
organic acid complex. The silver ion organic acid complex provides
superior disinfectant properties over the prior art process of generating
silver and copper ions in water.
[0081] In further contrast to the established prior art, the disinfectant
of the present invention has a stable ionic form having an extended
useful shelf-life. The useable shelf-life of the disinfectant of the
present invention enables the aqueous disinfectant solution to be
packaged in an aqueous concentrate form.
[0082] Specific Composition
[0083] In my prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/169,229 filed Oct.
9, 1998 and Internation application PCT.backslash.US98.backslash.21604, I
disclosed an aqueous disinfectant solution of silver organic acid complex
wherein the silver is electrolytically generated in a solution of organic
citric acid and water. An aqueous disinfectant solution of silver citrate
has been tested and found to be a stable ionic form having an extended
useful shelf-life. The extended useful shelf-life of the disinfectant
enabled the disinfectant to be packaged in an aqueous concentrate form.
[0084] Concentrations of 0.7% by volume have been formulated in accordance
with the above process. A concentration of 0.7% silver citrate by volume
corresponds to 7000 parts per million (ppm). The concentration of 0.7%
silver citrate was formed in a solution of organic acid and water
comprises approximately 20-30% organic acid by volume. Higher
concentration of the silver citrate in the range of 2.0% or greater by
volume are believed to be obtainable by the above process. It appears the
higher the concentration of organic acid in water, the higher the
concentration of silver citrate formed by the above process. The above
weight/volume may be a weight/weight depending on whether the components
are solid/liquid or solid/solid.
[0085] The silver citrate was found to be stable in a concentration of
5.0% and 10% citric acid solutions. The stability of the silver citrate
in the 1.0% citric acid solution experienced significant reductions in
stability. The minimum concentration of the citric acid solution is
therefore some value greater than 1.0%. The maximum concentration of the
citric acid in the aqueous solution has not been determined by test.
However, it is believed that the maximum concentration of the citric acid
in the aqueous solution will be much greater than 10.0%. It is also
evident from these results, that the higher the concentration of the
citric acid in the aqueous solution, the greater the concentration of
silver ions that can be stabilized.
[0086] Nuclear magnetic resonance tests (1H NMR) were preformed on the
silver citrate formed in accordance with the above process and a blank
organic acid sample. The samples showed an overwhelming excess of organic
acid, with little or no other anions present. It is postulated the Ag
must be in the form of the cation Ag+ complexed with the organic acid. It
is theorized the empty 5 s orbital of Ag+ overlaps with the delocalized
90 bond on one of the carboxyl groups of organic acid. The organic acid
anion is the counterion for this complex ion (Ag(OA)x)+ i.e. (OA)-.
Another possibility is a zwitterion, where the negative charge is on the
complex itself, (Ag+CA-) where the total charge of the complex is
neutral. Either or both of these species may exist in the silver ion
organic acid complex formed in accordance with the above process.
Multiple complexation to Ag+ is also possible.
[0087] The complete results of silver organic acid complex with the
organic acid being citric acid is set forth in my prior U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/169,229 filed Oct. 9, 1998 and International
application PCT.backslash.US98.backslash.21604, which is hereby
incorporated by reference into the present application as if fully set
forth herein.
[0088] Other Organic Acids
[0089] The present invention expands upon the acids suitable for use for
forming the silver ion organic acid complex of the present invention. The
silver is electrolytically generated in a solution of the organic acid
and water. In a first example of the invention, the organic acid selected
from a group I consisting of ascorbic acid, citric acid, glycollic acid,
lactic acid, malic acid and/or tartaric acid.
[0090] In a second example of the invention, the organic acid selected
from a group II consisting of acetic acid, aspartic acid, cis-cyclohexane
dicarboxylic acid, chloracetic acid, malic, malonic acid, propionic acid
and/or succinic acid and the amino acids dl-cysteine and cystine.
[0091] In a third example of the invention, the organic acid selected from
a group III consisting of amino acids, dl-cysteine and dl-cystine.
[0092] The group I consisting of ascorbic acid, citric acid, glycollic
acid, lactic acid, maleic acid, tartaric acid are organic acids having
the characteristic of an acid as well as the characteristic of an
alcohol. The group II consisting of acetic acid, aspartic acid,
cis-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid, chloracetic acid, malic, malonic acid,
propionic acid and/or succinic acid and the amino acids dl-cysteine and
cystine are organic acids having the characteristic of an acid. The group
III consisting of amino acids, dl-cysteine and dl-cystine have different
characteristics than Group I and Group II.
[0093] Enhanced Formulations
[0094] An enhanced formulation of the improved disinfectant of the present
invention includes the addition of an alcohol. In one example of the
second formulation of the improved disinfectant, ethyl alcohol (ETOH) is
added in an approximate amount of 20% by volume. However, it should be
understood that other types of alcohols may be added to the second
formulation of the improved disinfectant of the present invention.
[0095] Another enhanced formulation of the improved disinfectant of the
present invention includes the addition of a detergent. In one example of
the third formulation of the improved disinfectant, sodium dodecyl
sulfate is added in an approximate amount of up to 2% by volume.
[0096] The present disclosure includes that contained in the appended
claims as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this
invention has been described in its preferred form with a certain degree
of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the
preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous
changes in the details of construction and the combination and
arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
