U.S. patent application number 11/602129 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-22 for systems for decreasing environmental corrosion factors and/or for delivering one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure.
Invention is credited to Efin Ya Lyublinski, Yefim Vaks.
Application Number | 20080118419 11/602129 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39417155 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080118419 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lyublinski; Efin Ya ; et
al. |
May 22, 2008 |
Systems for decreasing environmental corrosion factors and/or for
delivering one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an
enclosure
Abstract
The present invention generally relates to portable systems
designed to deliver one or more corrosion inhibiting (i.e., one or
more corrosion inhibiting and/or tarnish inhibiting compounds) to
an enclosure, and to method for using same. More specifically, the
present invention relates to portable, mobile, self-contained
and/or discrete systems designed to deliver one or more corrosion
inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously purging
and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of such an enclosure, and
to methods for using same. In another embodiment, the present
invention relates to portable systems designed to deliver one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while
simultaneously dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior
atmosphere of such an enclosure, and to methods for using same. In
still another embodiment, the present invention relates to
heat-based portable systems designed to deliver one or more
corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously
dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of
such an enclosure, and to methods for using same.
Inventors: |
Lyublinski; Efin Ya; (Solon,
OH) ; Vaks; Yefim; (South Euclid, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ROETZEL AND ANDRESS
222 SOUTH MAIN STREET
AKRON
OH
44308
US
|
Family ID: |
39417155 |
Appl. No.: |
11/602129 |
Filed: |
November 20, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
422/292 ;
422/105 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C23F 11/00 20130101;
C23F 11/02 20130101; C23F 15/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
422/292 ;
422/105 |
International
Class: |
C23F 11/02 20060101
C23F011/02 |
Claims
1. A system for delivering at least one volatilizable inhibiting
compound to at least one enclosure, the system comprising: at least
one volatilizable inhibiting compound; a delivery means for
delivering the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound to
the at least one enclosure; and a means for creating a directional
flow within the at least one enclosure, wherein the combination of
the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound and the means
for creating a direction flow within the at least one enclosure
cause a reduction in the amount of one or more corrosion and/or
tarnish causing compounds within the interior environment of the
one or more enclosures.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one enclosure
contains one or more items therein.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the one or more items are
selected from ships or portions thereof, planes or portions
thereof, cars, tanks, artillery, missiles, finished metal products,
finished appliances, or any product (or portion thereof) that needs
to be stored in a reduced corrosion environment.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is selected from volatile corrosion
inhibitors, volatile tarnish inhibitors, or mixtures thereof.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound contains at least one of the following
formulas: (1) a formula which comprises: (1a) at least one volatile
corrosion inhibitor; (1b) at least one anti-oxidant; (1c) at least
one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; and (1d)
fumed silica, (2) a formula which comprises: (2a) at least one
volatile corrosion inhibitor; (2b) at least one anti-oxidant; (2c)
at least one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; (2d)
fumed silica; and (2e) at least one chemically active compound, (3)
a formula which comprises: (3a) an inorganic nitrite salt; (3b) a
phenol represented by the formula: ##STR00004## where R.sup.1,
R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently selected from alkyl,
aryl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl and hydroxyalkenyl, and where the sum
of carbon atoms in R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range of
3 to about 18; and (3c) fumed silica, or (4) a formula which
comprises: (4a) at least one strong alkali compound; and (4b) at
least one compound which yields an insoluble compound.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is contained within a foam.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises at
least one heat source.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one heat source is a
chemical heat source.
9. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one heat source is
an electrical heat source.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula within the
at least one enclosure is increased by a factor of at least about
10.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula is increased
by a factor of at least about 50.
12. A portable system for delivering at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to at least one enclosure, the system
comprising: at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound; a
delivery means for delivering the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to the at least one enclosure; a means for
creating a directional flow within the at least one enclosure; and
at least one transportation and/or movement means, wherein the
combination of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound
and the means for creating a direction flow within the at least one
enclosure cause a reduction in the amount of one or more corrosion
and/or tarnish causing compounds within the interior environment of
the one or more enclosures.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one enclosure
contains one or more items therein.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the one or more items are
selected from ships or portions thereof, planes or portions
thereof, cars, tanks, artillery, missiles, finished metal products,
finished appliances, or any product (or portion thereof) that needs
to be stored in a reduced corrosion environment.
15. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is selected from volatile corrosion
inhibitors, volatile tarnish inhibitors, or mixtures thereof.
16. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound contains at least one of the following
formulas: (1) a formula which comprises: (1a) at least one volatile
corrosion inhibitor; (1b) at least one anti-oxidant; (1c) at least
one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; and (1d)
fumed silica, (2) a formula which comprises: (2a) at least one
volatile corrosion inhibitor; (2b) at least one anti-oxidant; (2c)
at least one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; (2d)
fumed silica; and (2e) at least one chemically active compound, (3)
a formula which comprises: (3a) an inorganic nitrite salt; (3b) a
phenol represented by the formula: ##STR00005## where R.sup.1,
R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently selected from alkyl,
aryl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl and hydroxyalkenyl, and where the sum
of carbon atoms in R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range of
3 to about 18; and (3c) fumed silica, or (4) a formula which
comprises: (4a) at least one strong alkali compound; and (4b) at
least one compound which yields an insoluble compound.
17. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is contained within a foam.
18. The system of claim 12, wherein the system further comprises at
least one heat source.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one heat source is
a chemical heat source.
20. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one heat source is
an electrical heat source.
21. The system of claim 12, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula within the
at least one enclosure is increased by a factor of at least about
10.
22. The system of claim 12, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula is increased
by a factor of at least about 50.
23. The system of claim 12, wherein the system further comprises an
automatic control means for controlling the release of the at least
one volatilizable inhibiting compound.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the automatic control means
contains a humidity sensing means.
25. A portable system for delivering at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to at least one enclosure, the system
comprising: at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound; a
delivery means for delivering the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to the at least one enclosure; a means for
creating a directional flow within the at least one enclosure; at
least one heat source; an automatic control means for controlling
the release of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound;
and at least one transportation and/or movement means, wherein the
combination of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound
and the means for creating a direction flow within the at least one
enclosure cause a reduction in the amount of one or more corrosion
and/or tarnish causing compounds within the interior environment of
the one or more enclosures.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one enclosure
contains one or more items therein.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the one or more items are
selected from ships or portions thereof, planes or portions
thereof, cars, tanks, artillery, missiles, finished metal products,
finished appliances, or any product (or portion thereof) that needs
to be stored in a reduced corrosion environment.
28. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is selected from volatile corrosion
inhibitors, volatile tarnish inhibitors, or mixtures thereof.
29. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound contains at least one of the following
formulas: (1) a formula which comprises: (1a) at least one volatile
corrosion inhibitor; (1b) at least one anti-oxidant; (1c) at least
one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; and (1d)
fumed silica, (2) a formula which comprises: (2a) at least one
volatile corrosion inhibitor; (2b) at least one anti-oxidant; (2c)
at least one alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; (2d)
fumed silica; and (2e) at least one chemically active compound, (3)
a formula which comprises: (3a) an inorganic nitrite salt; (3b) a
phenol represented by the formula: ##STR00006## where R.sup.1,
R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are each independently selected from alkyl,
aryl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl and hydroxyalkenyl, and where the sum
of carbon atoms in R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range of
3 to about 18; and (3c) fumed silica, or (4) a formula which
comprises: (4a) at least one strong alkali compound; and (4b) at
least one compound which yields an insoluble compound.
30. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound or formula is contained within a foam.
31. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one heat source is
a chemical heat source.
32. The system of claim 25, wherein the at least one heat source is
an electrical heat source.
33. The system of claim 25, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula within the
at least one enclosure is increased by a factor of at least about
10.
34. The system of claim 25, wherein the vapor pressure of the at
least one volatilizable inhibiting compound or formula is increased
by a factor of at least about 50.
35. The system of claim 25, wherein the automatic control means
contains a humidity sensing means.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to portable systems
designed to deliver one or more corrosion inhibiting (i.e., one or
more corrosion inhibiting and/or tarnish inhibiting compounds) to
an enclosure, and to method for using same. More specifically, the
present invention relates to portable, mobile, self-contained
and/or discrete systems designed to deliver one or more corrosion
inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously purging
and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of such an enclosure, and
to methods for using same. In another embodiment, the present
invention relates to portable systems designed to deliver one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while
simultaneously dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior
atmosphere of such an enclosure, and to methods for using same. In
still another embodiment, the present invention relates to
heat-based portable systems designed to deliver one or more
corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously
dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of
such an enclosure, and to methods for using same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In commerce and industry today, the useful life of a variety
of items may be extended and/or preserved by providing one or more
suitable inhibitors. An inhibitor is a compound or group of
compounds which can slow or negate the rate of decomposition,
degradation and/or spoilage of a given item due to, for example,
corrosion or oxidation. For example, certain metals are prone to
corrosion and/or tarnishing. A suitable inhibitor, in such a case,
would be a compound (or group of compounds) which acts as a
corrosion and/or tarnish inhibitor thereby protecting a desired
item or items from the adverse effects of its ambient
environment.
[0003] Among the common indications of corrosion manifested in
useful metallic articles are oxidation, pitting, tarnishing,
mottling or discoloration of the surfaces of these items. These
manifestations occur in metallic articles, particularly when
exposed to oxygen, in either gaseous or liquid phase. Additionally,
sulfides and/or chlorides (or chlorine) may cause corrosion or
tarnishing problems as well. Inasmuch as both oxygen and water,
including water vapor, occur normally and are available in nature,
it is normally necessary to take precautions against corrosion when
packaging metallic items for shipment or storage, or when
subjecting such items to normal use. Metals which are frequently
found to be susceptible to corrosion under normal atmospheric and
ambient conditions include, but are not limited to, iron, copper,
brass, aluminum, silver, and alloys of these metals. Additionally,
suitable protection may also be needed for valuable non-metal
items, such as precious and/or semi-precious stones and the like,
or hybrid articles (i.e., articles that are partially metal or
contain a significant amount of metal therein) such as reinforced
concrete.
[0004] In view of the widespread need for protecting various
articles from corrosion, be the articles metallic or otherwise, a
variety of short-lived systems have been utilized. For example, the
use of VCI capsules permits a producer/manufacturer to place a VCI
capsule in an existing packaging system or enclosure, without
having to redesign same, while still making sure that the products
contained within the packaging are protected against corrosion,
tarnishing or some other form of degradation.
[0005] Such methods, although effective, are not suitable for all
situations. In some situations, the need for the inhibition of a
form of degradation is initially high and then lessens or declines
over time. Current systems offer basic linear performance over a
given amount of time and fail to provide adequate protection
initially (and then later provide surplus protection when
unneeded). Thus, current systems are engineered to release a
constant amount of inhibitor over a given life time. Such systems
include foam-based VCI or anti-tarnish capsules. Additionally,
current systems offer inadequate protection of large enclosures
(e.g., storage tanks, heat exchangers, compressors, buildings,
electronic compartments, storage structures, etc.) as the use of
VCI capsule-based protection systems is impractical in that an
unmanageable number of VCI capsules are typically needed to protect
large enclosures.
[0006] Thus, there is a need for a system and method which provides
flexible corrosion and/or tarnish protection in light of, or in
response to, a changing environment, while at the same time
permitting the flexible delivery of differing amounts of one or
more volatilizable compounds.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention generally relates to portable systems
designed to deliver one or more corrosion inhibiting (i.e., one or
more corrosion inhibiting and/or tarnish inhibiting compounds) to
an enclosure, and to method for using same. More specifically, the
present invention relates to portable, mobile, self-contained
and/or discrete systems designed to deliver one or more corrosion
inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously purging
and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of such an enclosure, and
to methods for using same. In another embodiment, the present
invention relates to portable systems designed to deliver one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while
simultaneously dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior
atmosphere of such an enclosure, and to methods for using same. In
still another embodiment, the present invention relates to
heat-based portable systems designed to deliver one or more
corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously
dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of
such an enclosure, and to methods for using same.
[0008] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a system
for delivering at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound to at
least one enclosure, the system comprising: at least one
volatilizable inhibiting compound; a delivery means for delivering
the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound to the at least
one enclosure; and a means for creating a direction flow within the
at least one enclosure, wherein the combination of the at least one
volatilizable inhibiting compound and the means for creating a
direction flow within the at least one enclosure cause a reduction
in the amount of one or more corrosion and/or tarnish causing
compounds within the interior environment of the one or more
enclosures.
[0009] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a
portable system for delivering at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to at least one enclosure, the system
comprising: at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound; a
delivery means for delivering the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to the at least one enclosure; a means for
creating a direction flow within the at least one enclosure; and at
least one transportation and/or movement means, wherein the
combination of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound
and the a means for creating a direction flow within the at least
one enclosure cause a reduction in the amount of one or more
corrosion and/or tarnish causing compounds within the interior
environment of the one or more enclosures.
[0010] In still another embodiment, the present invention relates
to a portable system for delivering at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to at least one enclosure, the system
comprising: at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound; a
delivery means for delivering the at least one volatilizable
inhibiting compound to the at least one enclosure; a means for
creating a direction flow within the at least one enclosure; at
least one heat source, an automatic control means for controlling
the release of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound,
and at least one transportation and/or movement means, wherein the
combination of the at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound
and the a means for creating a direction flow within the at least
one enclosure cause a reduction in the amount of one or more
corrosion and/or tarnish causing compounds within the interior
environment of the one or more enclosures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable system 100 in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates an enclosure-based system 200 in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an enclosure-based system 300 in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, where
the system is utilized in conjunction with a collapsible enclosure
inside a storage facility or building;
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates the enclosure-based system 300 of FIG. 3,
where the collapsible enclosure has been lifted up;
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates an enclosure-based system 500 in
accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention,
where the system is utilized in conjunction with a collapsible
enclosure;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a picture of a model of the enclosure-based system
500 of FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a humidity plot graph illustrating an exemplary
drop in relative humidity provided by a system in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a humidity plot graph illustrating an exemplary
drop in relative humidity provided by a system in accordance with
one another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 9 is a humidity plot graph illustrating an exemplary
drop in relative humidity provided by a system in accordance with
one still another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0020] The present invention generally relates to portable systems
designed to deliver one or more corrosion inhibiting (i.e., one or
more corrosion inhibiting and/or tarnish inhibiting compounds) to
an enclosure, and to method for using same. More specifically, the
present invention relates to portable, mobile, self-contained
and/or discrete systems designed to deliver one or more corrosion
inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously purging
and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of such an enclosure, and
to methods for using same. In another embodiment, the present
invention relates to portable systems designed to deliver one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while
simultaneously dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior
atmosphere of such an enclosure, and to methods for using same. In
still another embodiment, the present invention relates to
heat-based portable systems designed to deliver one or more
corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while simultaneously
dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior atmosphere of
such an enclosure, and to methods for using same.
[0021] In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to
a portable, mobile, self-contained and/or discrete systems designed
to provide, at a minimum, dehumidification to one or more
enclosures
[0022] Additionally, as used throughout the text and claims,
corrosion includes not only tarnishing, rusting and other forms of
corrosion, but also includes any detrimental or unwanted
degradation of an article to be protected. As such, when the
phrases "corrosion inhibiting compound(s)" or "corrosion
inhibitor(s)" are used herein, these phrases also include tarnish
inhibiting compound(s) or tarnish inhibitor(s). In one embodiment,
the corrosion inhibiting compound or compounds utilized in
conjunction with the present invention are volatile inhibitors. A
volatile inhibitor is a compound, or a mixture of compounds, with a
finite vapor pressure which, under a given set of conditions, can
generate vapors which may or may not condense on any surface with
which the vapors come into contact. Generally, the lower a
compound's or a mixture's vapor pressure the more difficult it is
to generate vapors from such a compound or mixture.
[0023] As is noted above, in some embodiments the present invention
relates to heat-based portable systems designed to deliver one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an enclosure while
simultaneously dehumidifying, purging and/or recycling the interior
atmosphere of such an enclosure. In such embodiments, the systems
of the present invention can be utilized in any situation where a
volatilizable compound is desired and the use of heat is not a
deterrent. Such situations can include, but are not limited to,
electronic compartments, electrical sub-stations, metallic
enclosures, storage tanks, septic tanks, containers (e.g., shipping
containers, storage containers, reservoirs, etc.); and/or closed
systems (e.g., waste disposal systems, waste disposal drums or
containers, etc.). Furthermore, in those embodiments of the present
invention were at least one heat source is present, such a heat
source also provides a dehumidification function to the systems of
the present invention. This dehumidification function can entail,
among other things, increasing the service life of any desiccant
present in the systems according to the present invention.
[0024] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a system
that is designed to deliver one or more corrosion inhibiting
compounds to one or more fully sealed enclosures, and to methods of
using same. By fully sealed enclosure it is meant that such an
enclosure does not permit the infusion, intrusion and/or inclusion
of any environment external to the interior of the fully sealed
enclosure. In these embodiments, the present invention permits,
simultaneously, a change in the environment of the enclosure and
delivery of one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an
interior environment.
[0025] In another embodiment, the present invention can be used to
provide one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to one or more
partially sealed enclosures. By partially sealed enclosure it is
meant that the enclosure is not totally and/or completely sealed
from any one or more environments external to the interior of the
partially sealed enclosed. Given this, such partially sealed
enclosures permit and/or allow the infusion, intrusion and/or
inclusion of an external environment into the interior of the
partially sealed enclosure. In certain instances, in the case of
partially sealed enclosures, the present invention can be designed
to provide an over pressure to the enclosure (i.e., a pressure
greater than the surrounding pressure of the external atmosphere)
thereby preventing and/or reducing the amount of an external
atmosphere that enters a given enclosure.
[0026] In one embodiment, the systems according to the present
invention permit an increase in the amount of volatilizable
compound or compounds present in one or more enclosures by at least
a factor of about 3 over the amount generated in a given period of
time (e.g., one hour) at room temperature and pressure
(approximately 25.degree. C. and 1 atmosphere) by prior art methods
(e.g., the use of stationary VCI capsules that are inserted into an
enclosure). In another embodiment, the systems of the present
invention permit an increase in the amount of volatilizable
compound or compounds present in one or more enclosures by at least
a factor of about 5, by a factor of at least about 10, or by a
factor of at least about 100, over the amount generated in a given
period of time (e.g., one hour) at room temperature and pressure
(approximately 25.degree. C. and 1 atmosphere) by prior art methods
(e.g., the use of stationary VCI capsules that are inserted into an
enclosure).
[0027] In another embodiment, the present invention utilizes a
heating means, as will be discussed in detail below, to generate a
temperature in the range of about 40.degree. C. to about 90.degree.
C., or about 45.degree. C. to about 85.degree. C., or even from
about 50.degree. C. to about 80.degree. C. It should be noted that
here, as well as elsewhere in the specification and claims,
individual range and ratio limits may be combined.
[0028] The heat source acts to increase the amount of volatilizable
compound or compounds which are initially generated by the systems
of the present invention by increasing the vapor pressure of the
volatilizable compound(s) contained therein. In one embodiment, the
heat source of the present invention increases the amount of vapor
generated by the one or more volatilizable compounds by at least a
factor of about 3 over the amount generated in a given period of
time (e.g., one hour) at room temperature and pressure
(approximately 25.degree. C. and 1 atmosphere). In another
embodiment, the heat source of the present invention increases the
amount of vapor generated by the one or more volatilizable
compounds by a factor of at least about 5, by a factor of at least
about 10, or by a factor of at least about 100, over the amount
generated in a given period of time (e.g., one hour) at room
temperature and pressure (approximately 25.degree. C. and 1
atmosphere).
[0029] In one embodiment, the optional heat source in a heat-based
system of the present invention is active (i.e., maintains a
minimum temperature within one of the above stated ranges) and
generates an increased amount of vapor (as discussed above) for any
suitable period of time. In one embodiment, this period is at least
about 1 hour, or at least about 12 hours, or even at least about 1
year. In another embodiment, the heat source is active for a period
of about 1 hour to about 240 hours, or about 4 hours to about 168
hours, or even about 6 hours to about 120 hours. In another
embodiment, the heat source is active for a period of about 2 hours
to about 1 year.
[0030] Generally, a system in accordance with the present invention
contains, at a minimum, the following components: (1) at least one
source of one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds; and (2) a
means for portably delivering the one or more corrosion inhibiting
compounds to an enclosure. Optionally, a system in accordance with
the present invention can optionally contain, in addition to the
elements listed above, at least one dehumidifying means and at
least one heat source. In one embodiment, the means for portably
delivering the one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an
enclosure includes a means for purging and/or recycling the
interior atmosphere of such an enclosure.
I. Volatilizable Compounds
[0031] As is noted above, the systems, according to the present
invention, include therein at least one volatilizable compound
and/or formula. In another embodiment, the present invention
includes therein at least one volatilizable inhibiting compound
and/or formula. Any compound which can be volatilized can be used
in the present invention, whether solid or liquid. In another
embodiment, the one or more volatilizable compounds or formulas of
the present invention can be contained in any suitable polymer or
polymer film, foam, powder, tablet (e.g., the polymer can be a
polyolefin or any suitable biodegradable polymer, such as a
biodegradable polyester or copolyester polymer). Suitable types of
volatilizable compounds and/or formulas include volatile corrosion
inhibitors, volatile tarnish inhibitors, anti-oxidants,
anti-mildew, anti-bacterials and/or UV-protectants.
[0032] In one embodiment, any compound which is to be utilized in
the present invention should generate a sufficient partial pressure
at a temperature in the range of about 40.degree. C. to about
90.degree. C., or about 45.degree. C. to about 85.degree. C., or
even from about 50.degree. C. to about 80.degree. C. In another
embodiment, the partial pressure of the one or more volatilizable
compounds should be at least about 3 to 100 times higher than the
partial pressure of the one or more volatilizable compounds at
25.degree. C.
[0033] In still another embodiment, the partial pressure of the one
or more volatilizable compounds should be at least about 100
Pascals (Pa) instead of about 1 Pa, at least about 5 Pa instead of
about 0.1 Pa, or even at least about 1.sup.-2 Pa instead of about
10.sup.- Pa, at any temperature within the above stated temperature
ranges. A chart detailing vapor pressure for various inorganic and
organic compounds and their partial pressures, or even greater than
atmospheric pressures, at certain temperatures can be found in the
CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 67th Edition, pages D-192
through D-212, which is hereby incorporated by reference for its
disclosure relating to vapor pressure. Additional vapor pressure
related material may also be found in the CRC Handbook of Chemistry
and Physics, 77th Edition, pages 6-67 through 6-113, which is
hereby incorporated by reference for its disclosure relating to
vapor pressure.
[0034] In one embodiment, the present invention contains therein
one or more volatilizable corrosion and/or tarnish inhibiting
compounds or formulas.
[0035] A. Corrosion Inhibiting and Tarnish Inhibiting Compounds or
Formulas:
[0036] The following formulas are exemplary corrosion inhibiting
and/or tarnish inhibiting compounds or formulas and the present
invention is not limited solely to the following compounds and/or
formulas.
[0037] Any suitable corrosion inhibitor can be used in the present
invention. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,290,912; 5,320,778; and 5,855,975
disclose vapor phase or volatile corrosion inhibitors and are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for their
teachings of such compounds. For example, useful vapor phase or
volatile corrosion inhibitors include, but are not limited to,
benzotriazole, and mixtures of benzoates of amine salts with
benzotriazole, nitrates of amine salts and
C.sub.13H.sub.26O.sub.2N, certain amines and imines, imidazolines
and/or imidazoles, triazoloes, pyridines, amides, phosphonates, and
sulphonates and their derivatives. Other suitable corrosion
inhibitors are described in Corrosion Inhibitors: Principle and
Applications, V. S. Sastri, Wiley, New York, N.Y., 1998.
[0038] Alternatively, the present invention can utilize a
biodegradable polymer-corrosion inhibitor combination as is
disclosed in United States Published Patent Application No.
2004/0173779, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for its
teaching of biodegradable polymer-corrosion inhibitor combinations.
In still another embodiment, the present invention can utilize
polymer miscible corrosion inhibiting compositions such as those
disclosed in United States Published Patent Application No.
2004/0069972, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for its
teaching of corrosion inhibiting compositions. In yet another
embodiment, the present invention can utilize any of the corrosion
inhibiting formulas and/or compounds disclosed in United States
Published Patent Application No. 2003/0213936, which is
incorporated herein in its entirety for its teaching of corrosion
inhibiting compositions. In still yet another embodiment, the
present invention can utilize a tarnish inhibiting compound or
formula as disclosed in United States Published Patent Application
Nos. 2004/00063837 and 2003/0207974, which are both incorporated in
their entireties for their teachings of tarnish inhibiting
compounds and/or formulas.
[0039] 1. Exemplary Corrosion Inhibiting Formulas:
[0040] In one embodiment, a suitable corrosion inhibiting formula
for inclusion into the present invention comprises a mixture of:
(1a) at least one volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI); (1b) at least
one anti-oxidant; (1c) at least one alkali or alkaline-earth metal
silicate or oxide; and (1d) fumed silica.
[0041] In another embodiment, the corrosion inhibiting formula
comprises a mixture of: (2a) at least one volatile corrosion
inhibitor (VCI); (2b) at least one anti-oxidant; (2c) at least one
alkali or alkaline-earth metal silicate or oxide; (2d) fumed
silica; and (2e) at least one chemically active compound.
[0042] In yet another embodiment, the corrosion inhibiting formula
comprises a mixture of: (3a) an inorganic nitrite salt; (3b) a
phenol represented by the formula:
##STR00001##
[0043] where R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are selected from alkyl,
aryl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl, hydroxyalkenyl and where the sum of
carbon atoms in R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range of 3
to about 18; and (3c) fumed silica. All of the mixtures described
above can further include additional additives.
[0044] a. Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors:
[0045] Any suitable volatile corrosion inhibitor (or vapor phase
corrosion inhibitor) can be utilized in the at least one corrosion
inhibiting formula contained in the present invention. As is noted
above, some suitable volatile corrosion inhibitors are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,290,912; 5,320,778; and 5,855,975, which are all
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for their
teachings of such inhibitors. For example, useful vapor phase or
volatile corrosion inhibitors include, but are not limited to,
triazoles and/or inorganic nitrites (e.g., nitrite salts).
[0046] In one embodiment, exemplary inorganic nitrite salts
include, but are not limited to, metal nitrites, such as sodium
nitrite, potassium nitrite and barium nitrite. In another
embodiment, any suitable Group 1 or Group 2 nitrite (New Notation
System) can be used in the at least one corrosion inhibiting
formula contained in the present invention.
[0047] In another embodiment, the one or more vapor phases or
volatile corrosion inhibitors utilized in the present invention can
be a triazole. Exemplary triazoles include, but are not limited to,
benzotriazole, tolyltriazole and/or sodium tolyltriazole.
[0048] In yet another embodiment, the vapor phase or volatile
corrosion inhibitor utilized in the present invention can be any
suitable mixture of two or more of the above-mentioned
inhibitors.
[0049] b. Anti-Oxidants:
[0050] Any suitable anti-oxidant can be utilized in the at least
one corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the present
invention. Exemplary anti-oxidants include, but are not limited to,
tri-substituted phenols independently substituted in the 2, 4 and 6
positions with one or more alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, aryl, alkenyl or
hydroxyalkenyl groups of the general formula shown below.
##STR00002##
[0051] In one embodiment, the sum of the carbon atoms present in
the substituent groups R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range
of 3 to about 36, or even in the range of 3 to about 18.
[0052] In another embodiment, a mixture of two or more of the
above-mentioned anti-oxidants can be utilized in the at least one
corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the present
invention.
[0053] c. Alkali/Alkaline-Earth Metal Silicates/Oxides:
[0054] Any suitable Group 1 or 2 silicate or oxide can be utilized
in the at least one corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the
present invention. Exemplary silicates include lithium silicate,
sodium silicate, potassium silicate and barium silicate. With
regard to the silicates utilized in the at least one corrosion
inhibiting formula contained in the present invention, the weight
ratio of alkali or alkaline-earth metal oxide to silicate can vary.
In one embodiment, this ratio of metal oxide to silicate is from
about 5:1 to about 1:5. In another embodiment, the ratio of metal
oxide to silicate is from about 3:1 to about 1:3.
[0055] In another embodiment, a mixture of one or more silicates
can be utilized in the at least one corrosion inhibiting formula
contained in the present invention. In yet another embodiment, the
one or more silicates can be in a glassy or crystalline state.
[0056] In yet another embodiment, at least one alkali or
alkaline-earth metal oxide is utilized in the at least one
corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the present invention
rather than, or in addition to, the one or more silicates discussed
above. Exemplary alkali and alkaline-earth metal oxides include,
but are not limited to, magnesium oxide, calcium oxide, strontium
oxide and barium oxide. In another embodiment, a mixture of two or
more alkali or alkaline-earth metal oxides can be utilized in the
at least one corrosion inhibiting formula of the present
invention.
[0057] d. Fumed Silica:
[0058] Any suitable fumed silica can be utilized in the at least
one corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the present
invention. Suitable fumed silicas are available under the
tradenames Cab-O-Sil from Cabot Corporation and Aerosil from
American Cyanamid.
[0059] e. Chemically Active Compound:
[0060] If present, the at least one chemically active compound
utilized in the at least one corrosion inhibiting formula contained
in the present invention can be an oxide compound, or combination
thereof, which can react with one or more compounds to form
compounds which are insoluble in aqueous environments. Exemplary
chemically active compounds include, but are not limited to, iron
oxides (both ferrous oxide and ferric oxide), cobalt oxide, nickel
oxide, copper oxides (both cuprous oxide and cupric oxide) and zinc
oxide.
[0061] In another embodiment, mixtures of two or more of the
above-mentioned oxides can be utilized.
[0062] f. Additional Additives:
[0063] In addition to components (1a) to (1d) (or (2a) to (2e)),
the at least one corrosion inhibiting formula contained in the
present invention may also contain other additives, such as
UV-protectants, anti-bacterials, anti-mildews, etc.
[0064] In one embodiment, the one or more corrosion inhibiting
formulas contained in the present invention are acid-free (i.e.,
the mixtures contain an amount, if any, of acidic compounds which
does not adversely affect the final pH of the corrosion inhibiting
formulas of the present invention). For example, in one embodiment,
acid free can mean having a pH of more than about 5, or more than
about 6, or even more than about 7.
[0065] In another embodiment, the one or more corrosion inhibiting
formulas contained in the present invention optionally contain at
least one odor-suppressing compound. Such compounds include, but
are not limited to, iron oxides (both ferrous oxide and ferric
oxide), cobalt oxide, nickel oxide, copper oxides (both cuprous
oxide and cupric oxide), zinc oxide, magnesium oxide and calcium
oxide.
[0066] g. Examples
[0067] The above corrosion inhibiting formulas are further
illustrated by the following examples wherein the term "parts"
refers to parts by weight unless otherwise indicated. The following
examples are not meant to be limiting, rather they are illustrative
of only a few embodiments within the scope of the present
invention.
[0068] Examples A-1 to A-3 describe the preparation of corrosion
inhibiting formulas.
EXAMPLE A-1
TABLE-US-00001 [0069] Sodium Nitrate 2.5 Parts Sodium
Silicate.sup.1 0.2 parts "Ionol".sup.2 0.5 parts "Cab-O-Sil".sup.3
0.1 parts .sup.1Sodium Silicate is a glassy product with a weight
ratio of silica to sodium oxide of 2 (commercially available from
the PQ Corporation). .sup.2"Ionol" is 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methyl
phenol (commercially available from the Uniroyal Chemical Company).
.sup.3"Cab-O-Sil" is fumed silica (commercially available from the
Cabot Corporation).
EXAMPLE A-2
TABLE-US-00002 [0070] Sodium Nitrite 2.5 parts Sodium Silicate 0.2
parts "Cobratec TT-85".sup.4 0.5 parts "Ionol" 0.5 parts
"Cab-O-Sil" 0.1 parts .sup.4"Cobratec TT-85" is sodium
tolyltriazole, a corrosion inhibitor commercially available from
the Sherwin-Williams Company.
Example A-3
TABLE-US-00003 [0071] Sodium Nitrite 2.5 parts Sodium Silicate 0.2
parts "Ionol" 0.5 parts "Cobratec TT-85" 0.5 parts Zinc Oxide 1.0
parts "Cab-O-Sil" 0.1 parts
[0072] 2. Exemplary Tarnish Inhibiting Formulas:
[0073] As noted above, in one embodiment, the present invention
relates to systems which can contain therein at least one tarnish
inhibiting formula which comprises a mixture of: (4a) at least one
strong alkali compound; and (4b) at least one compound which yields
an insoluble sulfide. This mixture can further include one or more
additional additives, such as anti-oxidants, corrosion inhibitors,
etc.
[0074] a. Strong Alkali Compound:
[0075] Any suitable Group 1 or 2 silicate or oxide can be utilized
in the at least one tarnish inhibiting formula contained in the
present invention as component (4a), the at least one strong alkali
compound. Exemplary silicates include, but are not limited to,
lithium silicate, sodium silicate, potassium silicate and barium
silicate. With regard to the silicates utilized in the present
invention, the weight ratio of alkali or alkaline-earth metal oxide
to silicate can vary. In one embodiment, this ratio of metal oxide
to silicate is from about 5:1 to about 1:5. In another embodiment,
the ratio of metal oxide to silicate is from about 2.5:1 to about
1:2.5.
[0076] In another embodiment, a mixture of one or more silicates
can be used in the at least one tarnish inhibiting formula
contained in the present invention. In yet another embodiment, the
one or more silicates can be in a glassy or crystalline state.
[0077] In yet another embodiment, the at least one alkali or
alkaline-earth metal oxide is utilized in the at least one tarnish
inhibiting formula contained in the present invention rather than
the one or more silicates. Exemplary alkaline-earth metal oxides
include, but are not limited to, magnesium oxide, calcium oxide,
strontium oxide and barium oxide. In another embodiment, a mixture
of two or more alkali or alkaline-earth metal oxides can be
utilized in the at least one tarnish inhibiting formula contained
in the present invention.
[0078] While not wishing to be bound to any one theory, it is
believed that the one or more strong alkali compounds react with
any hydrogen sulfide (H.sub.2S) and/or any acid compounds present
in the environment. This prevents such compounds and/or acids from
passing through the polymer matrix of a polymer article which
optionally contains therein a tarnish inhibiting formula, according
to the present invention.
[0079] b. Compounds Which Yield Insoluble Compounds:
[0080] Any suitable compound which forms an insoluble compound,
such as a sulfide (solubility of less than about 0.1 grams/liter of
water) when H.sub.2S is present, can be utilized in the at least
one tarnish inhibiting formula contained in the present invention
as component (4b), the compound which yields an insoluble sulfide.
Exemplary compounds include, but are not limited to, compounds
containing iron, cobalt, nickel, copper and zinc. Mixtures of two
or more such compounds can also be utilized in the at least one
tarnish inhibiting formula contained in the present invention.
Suitable anions for the compound according to component (4b)
include oxides and hydroxides.
[0081] Exemplary compounds include, but are not limited to, zinc
oxide, zinc hydroxide, iron oxides (both ferrous oxide and ferric
oxide), iron hydroxide (Fe(OH).sub.2), cobalt oxide, cobalt
hydroxides (both Co(OH).sub.2 and Co.sub.2O.sub.3.3H.sub.2O),
nickel oxide, nickel (II) hydroxide, copper oxides (both cuprous
oxide and cupric oxide) and copper hydroxide. Mixtures of two or
more of the above compounds can also be utilized as component
(4b).
[0082] c. Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors:
[0083] In one embodiment, the tarnish inhibiting formula contained
in the present invention further includes any suitable volatile
corrosion inhibitor (or vapor phase corrosion inhibitor). Some
suitable volatile corrosion inhibitors are disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,290,912; 5,320,778; and 5,855,975, which are all
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for their
teachings of such inhibitors. For example, useful vapor phase or
volatile corrosion inhibitors include, but are not limited to,
triazoles and/or inorganic nitrites (e.g., nitrite salts).
[0084] Exemplary inorganic nitrite salts include, but are not
limited to, metal nitrites, such as sodium nitrite, potassium
nitrite and barium nitrite. In another embodiment, any suitable
Group 1 or Group 2 nitrite (New Notation System) can be used in the
one or more tarnish inhibiting formulas contained in the present
invention.
[0085] In another embodiment, if present, the one or more tarnish
inhibiting formulas contained in the present invention can
optionally include one or more vapor phase or volatile corrosion
inhibitors selected from triazoles. Exemplary triazoles include,
but are not limited to, benzotriazole, tolyltriazole and/or sodium
tolyltriazole.
[0086] In yet another embodiment, the optional vapor phase or
volatile corrosion inhibitor utilized in the present invention can
be any suitable mixture of two or more of the above-mentioned
volatile corrosion inhibitors.
[0087] d. Anti-Oxidants:
[0088] If desired, any suitable anti-oxidant can be utilized in the
tarnish inhibiting portion of the present invention. Exemplary
anti-oxidants include, but are not limited to, tri-substituted
phenols substituted in the 2, 4 and 6 positions with one or more
alkyl hydroxyalkyl, aryl, alkenyl or hydroxyalkenyl groups of the
general formula shown below.
##STR00003##
[0089] In one embodiment, the sum of the carbon atoms present in
the substituent groups R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is in the range
of 3 to about 36, or even in the range of 3 to about 18.
[0090] In another embodiment, a mixture of two or more of the
above-mentioned anti-oxidants can be utilized in the tarnish
inhibiting portion of the present invention.
[0091] e. Additional Additives:
[0092] In addition to components (4a) and (4b), the tarnish
inhibiting formulas optionally contained in the present invention
may also contain other additives such as, UV-protectants,
anti-bacterials, anti-mildews, etc.
[0093] In one embodiment, the one or more corrosion inhibiting
formulas contained in the present invention are acid-free (i.e.,
the mixtures contain an amount, if any, of acidic compounds which
do not adversely affect the final pH of the corrosion inhibiting
formulas of the present invention). For example, in one embodiment,
acid free can mean having a pH of more than about 5, or more than
about 6, or even more than about 7.
[0094] In another embodiment, a tarnish inhibiting formula,
according to the present invention, optionally contains an
odor-suppressing compound. Such compounds include, but are not
limited to, iron oxides (both ferrous oxide and ferric oxide),
cobalt oxide, nickel oxide, copper oxides (both cuprous oxide and
cupric oxide), zinc oxide, magnesium oxide and calcium oxide.
[0095] f. Examples:
[0096] The above tarnish inhibiting formulas are further
illustrated by the following example wherein the term "parts"
refers to parts by weight unless otherwise indicated. The following
example is not meant to be limiting, rather it is illustrative of
only one embodiment within the scope of the present invention.
EXAMPLE B-1
[0097] (a) The following compounds are mixed to form a tarnish
inhibiting formula. This tarnish inhibiting formula is illustrated
by the following example wherein the term "parts" refers to parts
by weight unless otherwise indicated.
TABLE-US-00004 Sodium Silicate 25 parts Zinc Oxide 25 parts
[0098] 3. Other Corrosion Inhibiting Formulas and Compounds:
[0099] In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to
systems which contain therein at least one corrosion inhibiting
formula which comprises a mixture of: (3a) an inorganic nitrite
salt, (3b) a trisubstituted phenol and (3c) fumed silica.
[0100] The useful inorganic nitrite salts include metal nitrites
(such as Group I and II metal nitrites), including potassium
nitrite, sodium nitrite and calcium nitrite. In one embodiment, the
nitrite salt is sodium nitrite.
[0101] The trisubstituted phenols which are useful are substituted
in the 2, 4 and 6 positions with alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, aryl, alkenyl
or hydroxyalkenyl. In one embodiment, the phenol is 2,6
di-t-butyl-4-methyl phenol.
[0102] Any suitable fumed silica can be utilized. An exemplary
fumed silica is available commercially under the tradename
"Cab-O-Sil" from the Cabot Corporation.
[0103] This corrosion inhibiting formula is further illustrated by
means of the following example wherein the term "parts" refers to
parts by weight unless otherwise indicated. The following example
is not meant to be limiting, rather it is illustrative of only one
embodiment within the scope of the present invention.
EXAMPLE C-1
TABLE-US-00005 [0104] Sodium Nitrite 3 parts "Ionol" 2 parts
"Cab-O-Sil" 0.1 parts Oleyl Alcohol 3 parts
II. Heat Sources
[0105] As is noted above, the systems of the present invention
contain at least one heat source. Any suitable heat source having a
controllable heat output can be utilized in the present invention.
Suitable heat sources include, but are not limited to, chemical
heat sources (e.g., mixtures of iron powder, water, salt, activated
charcoal and vermiculite) which, when exposed to air, undergo a
chemical reaction and yield excess heat and battery or fuel powered
non-flame heat sources (e.g., a light bulb, a heating element,
etc.). One type of heat source which, in most instances, is
disfavored for use in the present invention is any type of heat
source which generates a flame (e.g., a Sterno can, a Bunsen
burner, a cigarette lighter, etc.). This type heat source is
generally disfavored for use in the present invention because it
could lead to fire hazards and the temperature of the heat output
is generally difficult to control.
III. Exemplary Embodiments
[0106] The following discussion relates to exemplary embodiments of
the present invention. However, it should be noted that the present
invention is not limited thereto. Additionally, although the
embodiments of FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate only one system
according to the present invention, the present invention
contemplates embodiments where two or more such systems are
utilized. Furthermore, although some and/or all of the embodiments
of the present invention are shown with one heat source, the
present invention contemplates embodiment where two or more heat
sources are utilized.
[0107] As is noted above, in one embodiment, the present invention
relates to a system that is designed to deliver one or more
corrosion inhibiting compounds to one or more fully sealed
enclosures, and to methods of using same. By fully sealed enclosure
it is meant that such an enclosure does not permit the infusion,
intrusion and/or inclusion of any environment external to the
interior of the fully sealed enclosure. In these embodiments, the
present invention permits, simultaneously, a change in the
environment of the enclosure and delivery of one or more corrosion
inhibiting compounds to an interior environment.
[0108] In another embodiment, the present invention can be used to
provide one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to one or more
partially sealed enclosures. By partially sealed enclosure it is
meant that the enclosure is not totally and/or completely sealed
from any one or more environments external to the interior of the
partially sealed enclosed. Given this, such partially sealed
enclosures permit and/or allow the infusion, intrusion and/or
inclusion of an external environment into the interior of the
partially sealed enclosure. In certain instances, in the case of
partially sealed enclosures, the present invention can be designed
to provide an over pressure to the enclosure (i.e., a pressure
greater than the surround pressure of the external atmosphere)
thereby preventing and/or reducing the amount of external
atmosphere that enters a given enclosure.
[0109] In another embodiment, the present invention can be used to
provide one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds to an open
enclosure. In this instance, an open enclosure is defined as an
enclosure that is not totally sealed from an external atmosphere
and thus permits any amount of external atmosphere to enter the
enclosure. In certain instances, in the case of open enclosures,
the present invention can be designed to provide an over pressure
to the enclosure (i.e., a pressure greater than the surround
pressure of the external atmosphere) thereby preventing and/or
reducing the amount of external atmosphere that enters a given
enclosure.
[0110] In still another embodiment, the present invention can
contain one or more filters or filtration devices designed to
remove from an atmosphere passing there through one or more
deleterious compounds. Examples of compounds that can be removed
include, but are not limited to, H.sub.2S, SO.sub.2, CO.sub.2,
Cl.sup.-, and H.sub.2O.
[0111] Turning to the Figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the
embodiment of FIG. 1 system 100 is a portable VCI and/or desiccant
unit that contains a fan 102 that creates directional air flow as
noted by the arrows in FIG. 1. In should be noted that the
embodiment of FIG. 1 is not limited to just fan 102. Rather any
means (e.g., a vacuum) that is able to generate directional air
flow can be utilized in conjunction with the embodiment of FIG. 1.
System 100 further includes a corrosion inhibiting portion 104, a
heat source 106 and a desiccant portion 108. As is noted above,
although system 100 is shown having both a corrosion inhibiting
portion 104 and a desiccant portion 108, the present invention is
not limited to embodiments having both. Rather, one or the other of
the corrosion inhibiting portion 104 or a desiccant portion 108 can
be used in conjunction with the present invention. Additionally,
although system 100 is shown with heat source 106, a heat source is
not a requirement for all embodiments of the present invention. For
example, a heat source 106 is not necessary where no corrosion
inhibiting portion 104 is present, or in the situation where system
100 is utilized in an environment where a heat source would be
redundant (e.g., a dessert environment, a tropical environment, the
interior of a steel plant, etc.).
[0112] As shown in FIG. 1, system 100 is connected to a large
electrical substation enclosure 110 via tubes 112 and 114. Tubes
112 and 114 are, in one embodiment, removably and/or permanently
connected to inputs/outputs 116 and 118 in enclosure 110. It should
be understood that although system 100 is shown in conjunction with
an electrical substation enclosure, portable system 100 can be used
in conjunction with any type of enclosure (e.g., a garage, a
warehouse, shipping containers, storage tanks, ship holds, etc.)
that is permanently or temporarily stationary where corrosion
and/or tarnish mitigation is desired.
[0113] In operation, system 100 of FIG. 1 supplies corrosion
inhibitor-laden air to the interior environment of enclosure 110,
as is denoted by the arrows in FIG. 1, in order to mitigate and/or
negate the effects of corrosion and/or tarnish causing compounds
that may exist/occur in the interior environment of enclosure 110.
Additionally, if present, any desiccant section/portion contained
in system 100 acts to remove some and/or all of the water vapor
from the atmosphere that is being circulated through enclosure 110
due the directional air flow provided by fan 102.
[0114] It should be noted, that the embodiment of FIG. 1 is not
limited to just the flow pattern where the input is at the bottom
of enclosure 110. Rather, any input/output arrangement can be used
in conjunction with enclosure 110, so long as a suitable amount of
inhibitor is delivered to the internal environment of enclosure
110. In one embodiment, system 100 can also cause a pressure
increase within the interior of enclosure 110 in order to prevent
and/or reduce any deleterious compounds from entering enclosure 110
from the external environment surrounding enclosure 110.
[0115] Turning to FIG. 2, system 200 is shown in conjunction with a
permanent enclosure 210. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, system 200 is
a fixed VCI and/or desiccant unit, although system 100 of FIG. 1
can be used in place of system 200, if so desired. In the
embodiment of FIG. 2 system 200 contains a fan 202 that creates
directional air flow as noted by the arrows in FIG. 2. In should be
noted that the embodiment of FIG. 2 is also not limited to just fan
202. Rather any means (e.g., a vacuum) that is able to generate
directional air flow can be utilized in conjunction with the
embodiment of FIG. 2. System 200 further includes any suitable
combination 204 of a corrosion inhibiting portion, a heat source,
and a desiccant portion. Again, system 200 is not limited to just
embodiments where a heat source is present. For example, a heat
source is not necessary where no corrosion inhibiting portion is
present, or in the situation where system is utilized in an
environment where a heat source would be redundant (e.g., a desert
environment, a tropical environment, the interior of a steel plant,
etc.).
[0116] As shown in FIG. 2, system 200 is placed within the interior
of a large enclosure (e.g., a warehouse, factory, or other
building) where a large item 212 is either being built and/or
stored. Exemplary items 212 that may be present within such
disclosures include, but are not limited to, ships (or portions
thereof), planes (or portions thereof), cars, tanks, artillery,
missiles, finished metal products (e.g., metal rolls, rods, or
sheets--such as steel rolls), finished appliances, or any product
(or portion thereof) that needs to be stored in a reduced corrosion
environment. In this embodiment, system 200 is connected to intake
206 and output 208 for supplying corrosion inhibitor-laden air to
the interior environment of enclosure 210, as is denoted by the
arrows in FIG. 2, in order to mitigate and/or negate the effects of
corrosion and/or tarnish causing compounds that may exist/occur in
the interior environment of enclosure 210. Additionally, if
present, any desiccant section/portion contained in system 200 acts
to remove some and/or all of the water vapor from the atmosphere
that is being circulated through enclosure 210 due the directional
air flow provided by fan 202.
[0117] It should be noted, that the embodiment of FIG. 2 is not
limited to just the flow pattern where the input is at the top of
enclosure 210. Rather, any input/output arrangement can be used in
conjunction with enclosure 210, so long as a suitable amount of
inhibitor is delivered to the internal environment of enclosure
210. In one instance, system 200 can also cause a pressure increase
within the interior of enclosure 210 in order to prevent and/or
reduce any deleterious compounds from entering enclosure 210 from
the external environment surrounding enclosure 210. Alternatively,
one or more additional pressure increasing means, such as pump 220,
can be used to cause an increase in the internal atmospheric
pressure of enclosure 210.
[0118] Turning to FIG. 3, system 200 is shown in conjunction with a
permanent enclosure 210. In the embodiment of the FIG. 3, system
200 is a fixed VCI and/or desiccant unit, although system 100 of
FIG. 1 can be used in place of system 200, if so desired. In the
embodiment of FIG. 3 system 200 contains a fan 202 that creates
directional air flow as noted by the arrows in FIG. 3. In should be
noted that the embodiment of FIG. 3 is also not limited to just fan
202. Rather any means (e.g., a vacuum) that is able to generate
directional air flow can be utilized in conjunction with the
embodiment of FIG. 3. System 200 further includes any suitable
combination 204 of a corrosion inhibiting portion, a heat source,
and a desiccant portion. Again, system 200 is not limited to just
embodiments where a heat source is present. For example, a heat
source is not necessary where no corrosion inhibiting portion is
present, or in the situation where system is utilized in an
environment where a heat source would be redundant (e.g., a dessert
environment, a tropical environment, the interior of a steel plant,
etc.).
[0119] As shown in FIG. 3, system 200 is placed within the interior
of a large enclosure (e.g., a warehouse, factory, or other
building) where a large item 212 is either being built and/or
stored. Exemplary items 212 that may be present within such
disclosures include, but are not limited to, ships (or portions
thereof), planes (or portions thereof, cars, tanks, artillery,
missiles, finished metal products (e.g., metal rolls, rods, or
sheets--such as steel rolls), finished appliances, or any product
(or portion thereof) that needs to be stored in a reduced corrosion
environment.
[0120] In this embodiment, system 200 is removably connected to
intake 306 and output 308 for supplying corrosion inhibitor-laden
air to the interior environment of a movable and/or collapsible
sub-enclosure 350 that is located within enclosure 210 and isolates
a portion of the interior environment of enclosure 210 that
immediately surrounds item 212. Additionally, if present, any
desiccant section/portion contained in system 200 acts to remove
some and/or all of the water vapor from the atmosphere that is
being circulated through enclosure 350 due the directional air flow
provided by fan 202.
[0121] As can be seen from FIG. 3, sub-enclosure 350 can be lifted
and/or moved via any suitable means. For example, a crane lift
system 352 can be used to move and/or lift sub-enclosure 350.
Again, it should be noted, that the embodiment of FIG. 3 is not
limited to just the flow pattern where the input is at the top of
sub-enclosure 350. Rather, any input/output arrangement can be used
in conjunction with sub-enclosure 350, so long as a suitable amount
of inhibitor is delivered to the internal environment of
sub-enclosure 350. In one instance, system 200 can also cause a
pressure increase within the interior of sub-enclosure 350 in order
to prevent and/or reduce any deleterious compounds from entering
sub-enclosure 350 from the external environment surrounding
sub-enclosure 350. Alternatively, one or more additional pressure
increasing means, such as one or more pumps (e.g., see the
embodiment of FIG. 2), can be used to cause an increase in the
internal atmospheric pressure of sub-enclosure 350.
[0122] Turning to FIGS. 4 and 5, FIG. 4 illustrates the instance
where sub-enclosure 350 has been lifted, while FIG. 5 illustrates
an embodiment where the main enclosure 210 has been done away with
and all that remains is a moveable and/or collapsible enclosure
460. FIG. 6 is a picture of a model of the embodiment of FIG.
5.
[0123] Turning to FIGS. 7 through 9, FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating
an exemplary drop in relative humidity provided by a system in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, where such
system contains a desiccant section. Ideally, the Relative Humidity
(RH) in a given enclosure needs to be reduced and maintained at or
below 50% RH, or even at or below 40% RH. In the case of the
present invention, it is possible to achieve the necessary
reduction in relative humidity prior to the start of corrosion
(denoted as time t.sub.1 in FIG. 7).
[0124] In another embodiment, a system in accordance with the
present invention can be cycled on and off in response to an
increase in the relative humidity in an enclosure, or based on a
time table cycle schedule. FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate humidity plots
for systems in accordance with the present invention, where such
systems are designed to cycle on and off. As can be seen from FIGS.
8 and 9, a variety of relative humidity plots are possible with the
present invention. Whereas FIG. 8 has a relatively smooth
transition between the high and low relative humidity values, FIG.
9 is designed to be on for shorter periods of time but to deliver a
quicker reduction in the relative humidity.
[0125] Although not wishing to be bound to any set of advantages,
or any one advantage, the present invention is believed to deliver
the following advantages over currently available systems.
[0126] (1) The present invention provides for increased and/or
portable dehumidification, which is the first step in preventing,
delaying and/or reducing corrosion;
[0127] (2) The present invention permits one to select various
dehumidification rates and/or speeds depending upon the environment
conditions present within the one or more enclosures to be
protected;
[0128] (3) The present invention permits the relative humidity of
one or more enclosures to be reduced to less than about 50%, less
than about 40%, less than about 30%, or even less than about 20%
for extended periods of time in order to prevent, delay and/or
reduce corrosion. In one embodiment, the present invention can
further include a humidity sensing unit that automates the on and
off cycles of the systems of the present invention;
[0129] (4) The present invention also permits high speed of
dehumidification due to the creation of circulation within an
enclosure;
[0130] (5) The present invention also permits high speed delivery
of one or more corrosion inhibiting compounds/formulas;
[0131] (5) The present invention can also provide corrosion
protection in enclosed environments where the relative humidity
therein is more than about 50%, more than about 60%, more than
about 70%, or more than about 80%, or more than about 90%, or even
up to about 100% due to the ability of the systems of the present
invention to deliver an increased amount/partial pressure of one or
more corrosion inhibiting compounds/formulas; and
[0132] (6) The present invention permits the use of lower
concentrations of one or more corrosion inhibiting
compounds/formulas due while delivering a increased level of
protection due to the use of constant and/or automated low vapor
pressure delivery of such compounds.
[0133] Although the invention has been shown and described with
respect to certain embodiments, it is obvious that equivalent
alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the
art upon the reading and understanding of this specification. In
particular with regard to the various functions performed by the
above described components, the terms (including any reference to a
"means") used to describe such components are intended to
correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which
performs the specified function of the described component (e.g.,
that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally
equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function
in the herein illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention.
In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have
been disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments,
such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the
other embodiments as may be desired and advantageous for any given
or particular application.
* * * * *