Czech licensed patent
Czech licensed patent: eco-friendly glass matrix containing active antibacterial ions (2021)
The creative activities of the Faculty of Logistics and Crisis Management place a strong emphasis on applied research, the results of which have a direct economic impact on society. This research not only promotes scientific excellence but also demonstrates a high potential for innovation and practical applicability in the real world. One of the key results of this focus is a patented eco-friendly glass matrix containing potent antibacterial ions, which was licensed in 2021. This innovative product represents a significant step towards sustainable water sanitation solutions.
The principle of the ecological glass matrix
The patent describes an eco-friendly glass matrix that is designed for use in continuous water sanitation systems. This matrix is in the form of loose or sintered particles arranged in blocks and contains active antibacterial ions that actively participate in the purification and improvement of water quality. The granulometry of the matrix particles ranges from 1 to 10 mm, which provides an optimal surface area for the effective action of the antibacterial components.
Composition and specifications of the matrix
The eco-friendly glass matrix contains several key ingredients that give it its unique properties. It is composed of:
– 5 to 15 parts by weight of sodium oxide (Na2O),
– 10 to 30 parts by weight of lithium oxide (Li2O),
– 20 to 40 parts by weight of boron dioxide (B2O3),
– 20 to 50 parts by weight of silica (SiO2).
This combination of chemical compounds is designed to provide stability to the matrix while allowing the effective release of antibacterial ions, which have the ability to disinfect water and eliminate bacteria. This method of sanitization is environmentally friendly and provides a sustainable and long-term solution for water management.
Building on previous research
This patented result builds on the previous project FV30337, which focused on the development of biologically active glass matrices for efficient water sanitation. Research in this project has shown that glass matrices containing specific chemical components can effectively eliminate micro-organisms and bacteria in different types of water, thus contributing to water quality and safety.
Significance and practical applications
The eco-friendly glass matrix represents a significant advance in water filtration and sanitation. Its applications are wide-ranging and include not only the removal of bacteria from drinking water, but also its use in industrial systems where water hygiene needs to be ensured in cooling circuits or in various technical processes. Thanks to its ecological characteristics, which minimise the negative impact on the environment, this technology represents a gentle and effective alternative to traditional water purification methods.
The patented ecological glass matrix not only supports the development of applied research, but also contributes to innovative solutions in the field of environmental protection and water quality improvement. This technology has the potential to significantly influence future trends in sustainability and water purity, both in domestic and industrial applications.
Conclusion
The results of the research at FLKR show how applied research can provide concrete and practical solutions for companies. The 2021 patented eco-friendly glass matrix with antibacterial ions is an example of an innovative approach to water sanitation that has the potential not only to improve water quality but also to contribute to environmental protection and promote sustainable technologies. This type of R&D demonstrates how the combination of scientific excellence and practical application can have a real impact on everyday life and industrial practice.
Czech licensed patent: method of making a hollow thick-walled three-dimensional glass sculpture (2019)
Within the creative activities of the Faculty of Logistics and Crisis Management (FLCM), great emphasis is placed on applied research that not only promotes scientific excellence but also brings concrete economic impact to society. This link between scientific innovation and practical application is also evident in the production of artistic and technological products. One of the most significant outputs of this research is a patented method of making a hollow thick-walled three-dimensional glass sculpture, which was developed in 2019 and licensed for commercial use.
Innovative process for the production of glass sculpture
The patent describes a unique technology that enables the production of complex glass sculptures with high precision and detail. The process begins by creating a spatial model of the sculpture from sculptural modelling material, including an artistic motif with surface relief. This model is then moulded, with an emphasis on accuracy and the inclusion of an oversize to compensate for shrinkage of the material during subsequent cooling.
Forming and preparation of glass cullet
After the mould has been formed and, if necessary, heat-treated, the glass cullet is fed into the completed mould. This glass cullet is composed of particles of homogeneous chemical composition, which ensures a homogeneous viscosity curve of the glass. In addition, the glass cullet is free of dust particles and has a minimum particle size of 3 mm, thus ensuring optimum quality of the final product. This step is crucial to achieve the desired technical and aesthetic properties of the sculpture.
Sintering, sintering and devitrification
After the glass cullet is fed into the mould, the sintering, sintering and, if necessary, devitrification phase is followed by the formation of the sculpture. This process takes place through the interaction of natural gravity and a specific temperature curve, which includes characteristic heating and cooling periods. The temperature profile is carefully adjusted to optimally combine the particles and achieve the desired material structure, thus forming the plastic into its final form.
Finishing and surface treatment
Once the mould has been decommissioned, the finished sculpture is removed, cleaned and subjected to any surface treatment. This treatment may include various refining processes that will improve the visual and technical characteristics of the final product. The sculpture thus acquires not only artistic value but also high durability and aesthetic quality.
Importance and practical use
This patented method of producing glass sculpture is an important example of applied research that has wide application not only in the art industry, but also in the field of design, architecture and glass production technology. The unique production process enables the creation of complex and detailed three-dimensional glass objects with high aesthetic and technical value, which contributes to the development of the Czech industry and promotes innovation in glass art and technology.
Thanks to this innovative approach, the FLCM is involved in creating concrete solutions that have a practical impact on the industry while supporting scientific progress and technological development. The patented method of fabricating a hollow thick-walled three-dimensional glass sculpture thus demonstrates how applied research can bring real benefits to society and the economy, fostering innovation and developing new solutions in glass manufacturing and design.