Toward Wet Wipes that Turn into Toilet Paper when Flushed

Description:

Project ID: TECH-2023-20

Background

Wet wipes have been shown to clog pipes and pumps in wastewater collection and treatment systems. Additionally, wet wipes contain microplastics that contribute to water pollution. Some governments are proposing restrictions or complete bans on wet wipe products. Therefore, there is a need for a truly flushable wet wipe that does not cause water pollution.

Invention Description

Researchers at the University of Toledo developed a solution to reinforce toilet paper with a natural biopolymer gel that dissolves in excess water. This biopolymer is used as a binder rather than a detergent, and therefore acts uniquely to control liquid migration. The toilet paper wipes have a tensile strength similar to that of a wet wipe, but dissolves quickly.

Applications

- Wet wipes

Advantages

- Flushable

- Does not produce microplastics

- Non-toxic binding agent

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IP Status:                    Patent pending

Patent Information:
For Information, Contact:
Yuriy Yatskiv
Licensing Associate
The University of Toledo
419-530-6231
Yuriy.Yatskiv@utoledo.edu
Inventors:
Yakov Lapitsky
Kunal Choudhuri
Umberto Kober
Keywords: