WO1995003769A2 - Deodorising fluids absorption mat, in particular for coffins, and its method of production - Google Patents
Deodorising fluids absorption mat, in particular for coffins, and its method of production Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1995003769A2 WO1995003769A2 PCT/NL1994/000176 NL9400176W WO9503769A2 WO 1995003769 A2 WO1995003769 A2 WO 1995003769A2 NL 9400176 W NL9400176 W NL 9400176W WO 9503769 A2 WO9503769 A2 WO 9503769A2
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- absorption mat
- mat according
- fluid
- absorbing
- absorption
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 81
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 28
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 8
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 title description 8
- 239000000470 constituent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 206010021639 Incontinence Diseases 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 210000001124 body fluid Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 239000010839 body fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 238000000354 decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 239000002920 hazardous waste Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 34
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 claims description 15
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229910021536 Zeolite Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 7
- HNPSIPDUKPIQMN-UHFFFAOYSA-N dioxosilane;oxo(oxoalumanyloxy)alumane Chemical compound O=[Si]=O.O=[Al]O[Al]=O HNPSIPDUKPIQMN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000010457 zeolite Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000008187 granular material Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000297 Rayon Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002472 Starch Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008107 starch Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000019698 starch Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 108010010803 Gelatin Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- BUGBHKTXTAQXES-UHFFFAOYSA-N Selenium Chemical compound [Se] BUGBHKTXTAQXES-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000000844 anti-bacterial effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000571 coke Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000008273 gelatin Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000159 gelatin Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000019322 gelatine Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000011852 gelatine desserts Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000002401 inhibitory effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000003077 lignite Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000058 polyacrylate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 150000003342 selenium Chemical class 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910052711 selenium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011669 selenium Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 159000000000 sodium salts Chemical class 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000741 silica gel Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 229910002027 silica gel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims 1
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 5
- -1 acryl Chemical class 0.000 description 4
- 239000002304 perfume Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 241000282414 Homo sapiens Species 0.000 description 3
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 3
- QSHDDOUJBYECFT-UHFFFAOYSA-N mercury Chemical compound [Hg] QSHDDOUJBYECFT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 229910052753 mercury Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ammonia Chemical compound N QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- RAHZWNYVWXNFOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N Sulphur dioxide Chemical compound O=S=O RAHZWNYVWXNFOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000003463 adsorbent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000009933 burial Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000123 paper Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon monoxide Chemical compound [O+]#[C-] UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920002134 Carboxymethyl cellulose Polymers 0.000 description 1
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- RWSOTUBLDIXVET-UHFFFAOYSA-N Dihydrogen sulfide Chemical compound S RWSOTUBLDIXVET-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000282412 Homo Species 0.000 description 1
- 206010020751 Hypersensitivity Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000006096 absorbing agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011358 absorbing material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 125000000217 alkyl group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 229910021529 ammonia Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000003899 bactericide agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910002092 carbon dioxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001569 carbon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910002091 carbon monoxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001768 carboxy methyl cellulose Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000010948 carboxy methyl cellulose Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000008112 carboxymethyl-cellulose Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940105329 carboxymethylcellulose Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000007795 chemical reaction product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009792 diffusion process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002845 discoloration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000686 essence Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004880 explosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004519 grease Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001385 heavy metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000008240 homogeneous mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 125000002887 hydroxy group Chemical group [H]O* 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000000873 masking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035699 permeability Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000002244 precipitate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008786 sensory perception of smell Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007480 spreading Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013517 stratification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004291 sulphur dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000010269 sulphur dioxide Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002912 waste gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G17/00—Coffins; Funeral wrappings; Funeral urns
- A61G17/04—Fittings for coffins
- A61G17/047—Devices for absorbing decomposition liquid
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
- A61G2203/70—General characteristics of devices with special adaptations, e.g. for safety or comfort
- A61G2203/90—General characteristics of devices with special adaptations, e.g. for safety or comfort biodegradable
Definitions
- the present invention relates to the field of removing odour and fluid, in particular odours and fluids coming from human or animal bodies or corpses.
- Perfumes are generally used to solve the odour problem, but they are not always effective, since they merely have a masking effect, and they do not prevent the material which is spreading the unpleasant smell from coming into contact with persons in the immediate vicinity, so that when these persons leave the perfumed room an odour problem still arises. Perfumes themselves can also cause allergic reactions and confuse the sense of smell. This is an unattractive solution in particular for persons who are frequently in a room containing such perfumes.
- ionizers in which ions of gases are polarized, which means that the odour is dispersed and that the charged ions precipitate on walls, furniture, floor covering and the like, which can lead to discoloration of material. This neither controls the fluid problem nor protects the environment.
- Non- sandwich like structures comprising a solid flat support with at least one of the phases being a coating comprising a large proportion of the hydroexpansible polymeric powder.
- Another suitable material comprises one flat fibre-like element without recognizable stratifications containing the hydroexpansible polymeric powder particles.
- the examples given of the polymeric powders are modified acryl polymers, grafted starch, polyacryl amids, carboxy methyl cellulose. It is also described that the materials can be assembled or stuck to a film with good impermeability characteristics and capable of providing a mechanically acceptable resistance to the assembled article.
- the material can be selected from films on the basis of biodegradable materials. The described material however is not completely biodegradable as the liquid absorbing part is not biodegradable. Furthermore, the problem of the odour is not addressed in the French application and the mat described therein do not solve the problem.
- a composition for use in coffins comprising adsorbent material, their composition is present in the form of a powder, mini grains or granules forming a homogenous mixture and forming a stable mixture consisting essentially of a mixture of a known absorbent hydroxy ethylated starch and odour producing components and bactericidal agents.
- the absorbent polymer forms a compact gel which is dry to the touch.
- the product comprises a combination of natural essences fixed to a silica support known as such and the capability of diffusion is reinforced by the presence of an isoparaffine solvent with an alkyl chain of C 12 -C 13 .
- EP 0258 144 a mattress for use in coffins is described directed at solving the problem of the reduced adsorbance due to compression of the mattress when something is placed thereon.
- the solution proposed consists of a number of layers of cardboard and adsorbent material, also comprising supports thereby reducing the compression of the mattress.
- the cited European patent application is not directed at reduction of odour and furthermore has the additional problem that the mattress becomes thick and requires more material which increases the production costs. Furthermore, use of such a mattress in hospitals etc. would not be suitable as the waste disposal costs will be higher due to an increased volume of waste.
- the present invention relates to an absorption mat, comprising at least a biodegradable bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid, a biodegradable intermediate layer with odour- absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents, and a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid, which absorption mat during decomposition, in particular during incineration, does not release hazardous waste substances, and which absorption mat has an absorbency of at least 4 litres of body fluid per square metre of absorption mat.
- biodegradable materials which are suitable for the envisaged use in an absorption mat as a bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid.
- a suitable example is a viscose/cotton non-woven layer which is provided at least on one side with a material which is impermeable to fluid, such as polythene, which can be applied in the form of a film.
- the top layer of an absorption mat according to the invention can also be made of various materials which are known to a person skilled in the field of absorption and/or permeability of materials.
- a suitable example for a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid is a non-woven material such as a mixture of cotton and viscose or a polypropylene fibre.
- top and bottom layers will also depend on the specific requirements which the end product must meet, such as what load-bearing capacity the absorption mat must have and whether the absorption mat must also be comfortable.
- the absorption of both odour and fluid preferably occurs in one layer, which makes the manufacture of the present absorption mat simpler and quicker.
- odour absorption it is possible to choose from various materials which are not harmful to the environment and which absorb odour.
- the following biodegradable materials are suitable examples of such odour absorbers: natural fibres, wood shavings, coke, lignite, activated carbon, odour-absorbing granules, natural zeolite and artificial zeolite.
- a zeolite more especially a natural zeolite, for example Adsorbex® (trade name) , which is commercially available.
- Adsorbex® trade name
- This material can be used either in granule or in powder form for odour absorption in an absorption mat according to the invention.
- Adsorbed can absorb carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, freon, formaldehyde, mercaptans and heavy metals such as copper, mercury, lead and zinc. It also has an ideal absorption capacity for oil, grease, water and other inert liquids.
- Adsorbex® itself does not contain any other materials or minerals which are harmful to the environment, so that there are no problems as regards using it in an absorption mat according to the present invention. With a view to manufacturing simplicity, and also costs, it is preferable to use a material which absorbs both odour and fluid.
- fluid-absorbing constituents various materials which absorb fluid and are biodegradable, without harming the environment in the process, are also known.
- examples of such constituents which can be used in an intermediate layer of an absorption mat according to the present invention are: natural fibres, fluid-absorbing granules, gelatin and sodium salts of polyacrylate.
- the odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents in an absorption mat according to the patent application are preferably uniformly distributed over the bottom layer and are preferably fixed, so that when the absorption mat is moved no shifting or accumulation of the absorbing material at a particular point occurs.
- the intermediate layer of an absorption mat according to the invention can also comprise polythene as the material by means of which the absorbent constituents are fixed, and can also serve as the binding material which produces adhesion of the intermediate layer to top layer and bottom layer of the absorption mat.
- selenium or a selenium derivative which can bind mercury can be incorporated in an absorption mat according to the invention. This is important in particular when the absorption mat is being used in a coffin which is to be placed in the ground.
- An absorption mat according to the invention can be used as an absorbent layer in a coffin, but the absorption mat can be used with equal advantage in a body bag or shroud.
- a suitable embodiment of an absorption mat according to the invention will have sealed edges in order to prevent leakage from the absorbent material.
- the absorption mat can also be made in various thicknesses and sizes, which are either predetermined or can be tailor- made.
- an absorption mat according to the invention will not be narrower than 0.50 metre, and will mostly be longer than 1 metre.
- a thickness of 1 millimetre can already be sufficient for the envisaged purpose.
- the fluid-absorbing capacity will depend on the envisaged application, but for use in a coffin, for example, it will have to be sufficient for absorbing over 4 to 5 litres of body fluid, such as blood, per square metre, so that for even the most damaged bodies sufficient absorption is achieved.
- the absorption mat can be removed from a roll, and the correct size cut off or made the appropriate shape.
- an absorption mat will be the size of a human body, but it is possible to determine the size oneself after manufacture.
- Pre-shaped absorption mats with raised edges can also be manufactured; these are suitable in particular for coffins.
- the absorption mat according to the invention need only be one millimetre to several millimetres thick for it already to have sufficient absorbency to serve as absorbent material for a corpse.
- An absorption mat according to the present invention can also be used as a removable cover for an operating table, dissecting table or stretcher, or any other place where contact with blood is to be avoided.
- an absorption mat in which at least the top layer is provided with a bacteria-inhibiting or bactericidal layer.
- an absorption mat which has sterilizable constituents and is supplied preferably already sterilized.
- Such an application of an absorption mat is very hygienic and is also kind to the environment. Only paper rolls or plastic layers are currently obtainable for this application. Paper has only slight fluid absorbency and no odour absorbency.
- the existing plastic product has the additional disadvantage that it does not absorb fluid, but merely prevents contact between the layers between which it is placed.
- an absorption mat according to the invention is as a removable cover for a bed or seat for humans or animals with incontinence problems.
- Such an embodiment will preferably comprise a thicker and softer material and also absorption material with a finer, softer texture than is required for use under a corpse.
- An embodiment which can be cut or trimmed to size is highly suitable for the incontinence application in particular.
- the absorption mat can be supplied in a roll for this purpose.
- a roll which comprises at least one removable absorption mat according to the invention.
- the mat In order to minimize costs it is preferable for the mat to be as thin as possible.
- An absorption mat according to the invention is simple and cheap to produce.
- the present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an absorption mat according to the invention.
- the constituents of the intermediate layer are applied in powder form to the layer serving as the top layer or bottom layer, which constituents comprise odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents and polythene powder, and the third layer is then applied, the layer ultimately forming the underside having been or being provided with polythene film, and the three-ply material being subjected to a heat treatment, during which the polythene powder bonds the two covering layers.
- a person skilled in the art can also easily devise and carry out other methods and additions to the present method, which production methods are considered to fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.
- An absorption mat according to the present invention offers solutions to problems in the funeral business and in health care. Both odour-absorption and fluid absorption occur, and it is an ecologically sound product. It is sterilizable, user-friendly, and need not take up much space in storage. Moreover, it can be used for various purposes and is very simple and cheap to produce.
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Laminated Bodies (AREA)
- Agricultural Chemicals And Associated Chemicals (AREA)
- Housing For Livestock And Birds (AREA)
- Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to an absorption mat, comprising at least a biodegradable bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid, a biodegradable intermediate layer with odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents, and a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid, which absorption mat during decomposition, in particular during incineration, does not release hazardous waste substances, and which absorption mat has an absorbency of at least 4 litres of body fluid per square metre of absorption mat. The invention also relates to the use of an absorption mat as an absorbent layer in a coffin, and to the use of an absorption mat as the removable cover of a bed or seat for humans or animals with incontinence problems, and to the use of an absorption mat as the removable cover of an operating table, dissecting table or stretcher.
Description
DEODORISING FLUIDS ABSORPTION MAT, IN PARTICULAR FOR COFFINS, AND ITS METHOD OF PRODUCTION
The present invention relates to the field of removing odour and fluid, in particular odours and fluids coming from human or animal bodies or corpses.
It is a known problem that after some time corpses emit unpleasant odours and fluids. Various solutions have been devised hitherto, but they all have certain disadvantages. In particular, there are coffins which have facilities designed to prevent problems with fluids when a corpse is laid out before the burial or cremation takes place. One example of such facilities is the presence of a plastic tray provided with collecting spaces for fluid, or the presence of a double bottom. However, in the first place these do not prevent the odour problem, and when the coffin is moved fluid can still run out of the collecting spaces, with all the unpleasant problems which this entails. Moreover, in the case of cremations, mainly because of the plastic, such facilities also cause a smell problem and other harmful consequences for the environment. Secondly, if large quantities of fluid are present, there is less efficient incineration during cremations, and this can even lead to the risk of explosion, which again inevitably has harmful consequences for the environment.
Perfumes are generally used to solve the odour problem, but they are not always effective, since they merely have a masking effect, and they do not prevent the material which is spreading the unpleasant smell from coming into contact with persons in the immediate vicinity, so that when these persons leave the perfumed room an odour problem still arises. Perfumes themselves can also cause allergic reactions and confuse the sense of smell. This is an unattractive solution in particular for persons who are frequently in a room containing such perfumes.
Use is also made of ionizers, in which ions of gases are polarized, which means that the odour is dispersed and that the charged ions precipitate on walls, furniture, floor covering and the like, which can lead to discoloration of material. This neither controls the fluid problem nor protects the environment.
In French patent application 2 679 ^^ use of a composite material capable of inflating without dissolving in a major manner in the presence of water or water-like solutions comprising a hydroexpansible
polymeric powder in linings of coffins is described. Such composite materials are known from the industry of electric cables and are used in the cable envelope. For use in coffins the materials generally comprise a hydroexpansible polymeric powder sandwich between two non-woven layers wherein the cohesion of the composite is obtained by incorporating the hydroexpansible polymeric powder in a thermoplastic substance which becomes soft and sticky under the action of pressure and heat. Non- sandwich like structures are also described comprising a solid flat support with at least one of the phases being a coating comprising a large proportion of the hydroexpansible polymeric powder. Another suitable material comprises one flat fibre-like element without recognizable stratifications containing the hydroexpansible polymeric powder particles. The examples given of the polymeric powders are modified acryl polymers, grafted starch, polyacryl amids, carboxy methyl cellulose. It is also described that the materials can be assembled or stuck to a film with good impermeability characteristics and capable of providing a mechanically acceptable resistance to the assembled article. The material can be selected from films on the basis of biodegradable materials. The described material however is not completely biodegradable as the liquid absorbing part is not biodegradable. Furthermore, the problem of the odour is not addressed in the French application and the mat described therein do not solve the problem.
In French patent application 2 635 986 a composition for use in coffins is described comprising adsorbent material, their composition is present in the form of a powder, mini grains or granules forming a homogenous mixture and forming a stable mixture consisting essentially of a mixture of a known absorbent hydroxy ethylated starch and odour producing components and bactericidal agents. In contact with water the absorbent polymer forms a compact gel which is dry to the touch. In order to provide an odour the product comprises a combination of natural essences fixed to a silica support known as such and the capability of diffusion is reinforced by the presence of an isoparaffine solvent with an alkyl chain of C12-C13. The problem of the odour is described in the French patent application, however, the solution selected has disadvantages. As already stated previously in the introduction the presence of perfume producing products is insufficient to properly solve the problems associated with the bad odour emitting from corpses and bodily products. The French patent application is not directed at a mat as absorbent layer but at beads or grains of gel-like substance. The
described composition is therefore not suited for applications other than coffins e.g. on operating tables and beds.
In EP 0258 144 a mattress for use in coffins is described directed at solving the problem of the reduced adsorbance due to compression of the mattress when something is placed thereon. The solution proposed consists of a number of layers of cardboard and adsorbent material, also comprising supports thereby reducing the compression of the mattress. The cited European patent application is not directed at reduction of odour and furthermore has the additional problem that the mattress becomes thick and requires more material which increases the production costs. Furthermore, use of such a mattress in hospitals etc. would not be suitable as the waste disposal costs will be higher due to an increased volume of waste.
Finally, as the standards existing as regards emission of waste gases from crematoriums have become quite stringent, and with regard to the burial of corpses due to the fact that something which is put in the ground can ultimately come back to man in the food chain or in another way environmental aspects are becoming increasingly important. A solution to both the odour and the fluid problem which also takes account of environmental and cost aspects was sought.
The object of the present invention is to solve the problems outlined above. For that purpose, the present invention relates to an absorption mat, comprising at least a biodegradable bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid, a biodegradable intermediate layer with odour- absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents, and a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid, which absorption mat during decomposition, in particular during incineration, does not release hazardous waste substances, and which absorption mat has an absorbency of at least 4 litres of body fluid per square metre of absorption mat. Numerous examples are known of biodegradable materials which are suitable for the envisaged use in an absorption mat as a bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid. A suitable example is a viscose/cotton non-woven layer which is provided at least on one side with a material which is impermeable to fluid, such as polythene, which can be applied in the form of a film. The top layer of an absorption mat according to the invention can also be made of various materials which are known to a person skilled in the field of absorption and/or permeability of materials. A suitable example for a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid is a non-woven material such as a mixture of cotton
and viscose or a polypropylene fibre. The exact composition of the top and bottom layers will also depend on the specific requirements which the end product must meet, such as what load-bearing capacity the absorption mat must have and whether the absorption mat must also be comfortable. The absorption of both odour and fluid preferably occurs in one layer, which makes the manufacture of the present absorption mat simpler and quicker. For odour absorption it is possible to choose from various materials which are not harmful to the environment and which absorb odour. The following biodegradable materials are suitable examples of such odour absorbers: natural fibres, wood shavings, coke, lignite, activated carbon, odour-absorbing granules, natural zeolite and artificial zeolite. In particular, it is preferable to use a zeolite, more especially a natural zeolite, for example Adsorbex® (trade name) , which is commercially available. This material can be used either in granule or in powder form for odour absorption in an absorption mat according to the invention. Adsorbed can absorb carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, freon, formaldehyde, mercaptans and heavy metals such as copper, mercury, lead and zinc. It also has an ideal absorption capacity for oil, grease, water and other inert liquids. Adsorbex® itself does not contain any other materials or minerals which are harmful to the environment, so that there are no problems as regards using it in an absorption mat according to the present invention. With a view to manufacturing simplicity, and also costs, it is preferable to use a material which absorbs both odour and fluid.
As regards fluid-absorbing constituents, various materials which absorb fluid and are biodegradable, without harming the environment in the process, are also known. Examples of such constituents which can be used in an intermediate layer of an absorption mat according to the present invention are: natural fibres, fluid-absorbing granules, gelatin and sodium salts of polyacrylate.
The odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents in an absorption mat according to the patent application are preferably uniformly distributed over the bottom layer and are preferably fixed, so that when the absorption mat is moved no shifting or accumulation of the absorbing material at a particular point occurs. The intermediate layer of an absorption mat according to the invention can also comprise polythene as the material by means of which the absorbent constituents are fixed, and can also serve as the binding material which produces
adhesion of the intermediate layer to top layer and bottom layer of the absorption mat.
In a special embodiment, with a view to prevention of mercury pollution, selenium or a selenium derivative which can bind mercury can be incorporated in an absorption mat according to the invention. This is important in particular when the absorption mat is being used in a coffin which is to be placed in the ground.
An absorption mat according to the invention can be used as an absorbent layer in a coffin, but the absorption mat can be used with equal advantage in a body bag or shroud.
A suitable embodiment of an absorption mat according to the invention will have sealed edges in order to prevent leakage from the absorbent material. The absorption mat can also be made in various thicknesses and sizes, which are either predetermined or can be tailor- made.
In general, an absorption mat according to the invention will not be narrower than 0.50 metre, and will mostly be longer than 1 metre. A thickness of 1 millimetre can already be sufficient for the envisaged purpose. The fluid-absorbing capacity will depend on the envisaged application, but for use in a coffin, for example, it will have to be sufficient for absorbing over 4 to 5 litres of body fluid, such as blood, per square metre, so that for even the most damaged bodies sufficient absorption is achieved.
The absorption mat can be removed from a roll, and the correct size cut off or made the appropriate shape. In general, an absorption mat will be the size of a human body, but it is possible to determine the size oneself after manufacture. Pre-shaped absorption mats with raised edges can also be manufactured; these are suitable in particular for coffins. The absorption mat according to the invention need only be one millimetre to several millimetres thick for it already to have sufficient absorbency to serve as absorbent material for a corpse.
An absorption mat according to the present invention can also be used as a removable cover for an operating table, dissecting table or stretcher, or any other place where contact with blood is to be avoided. For this purpose, it is advantageous to use an absorption mat in which at least the top layer is provided with a bacteria-inhibiting or bactericidal layer.
Another embodiment which can advantageously be used for this
purpose is an absorption mat which has sterilizable constituents and is supplied preferably already sterilized. Such an application of an absorption mat is very hygienic and is also kind to the environment. Only paper rolls or plastic layers are currently obtainable for this application. Paper has only slight fluid absorbency and no odour absorbency. The existing plastic product has the additional disadvantage that it does not absorb fluid, but merely prevents contact between the layers between which it is placed.
Another application for an absorption mat according to the invention is as a removable cover for a bed or seat for humans or animals with incontinence problems. Such an embodiment will preferably comprise a thicker and softer material and also absorption material with a finer, softer texture than is required for use under a corpse. An embodiment which can be cut or trimmed to size is highly suitable for the incontinence application in particular. The absorption mat can be supplied in a roll for this purpose.
For all embodiments and applications it is possible to make a roll which comprises at least one removable absorption mat according to the invention. In order to minimize costs it is preferable for the mat to be as thin as possible.
An absorption mat according to the invention is simple and cheap to produce. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an absorption mat according to the invention. In such a method the constituents of the intermediate layer are applied in powder form to the layer serving as the top layer or bottom layer, which constituents comprise odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents and polythene powder, and the third layer is then applied, the layer ultimately forming the underside having been or being provided with polythene film, and the three-ply material being subjected to a heat treatment, during which the polythene powder bonds the two covering layers. A person skilled in the art can also easily devise and carry out other methods and additions to the present method, which production methods are considered to fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. An absorption mat according to the present invention offers solutions to problems in the funeral business and in health care. Both odour-absorption and fluid absorption occur, and it is an ecologically sound product. It is sterilizable, user-friendly, and need not take up much space in storage. Moreover, it can be used for various purposes and
is very simple and cheap to produce.
Claims
1. Absorption mat, comprising at least a biodegradable bottom layer which is impermeable to fluid, a biodegradable intermediate layer with odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents, and a biodegradable top layer which is permeable to fluid, which absorption mat during decomposition, in particular during incineration, does not release hazardous waste substances, and which absorption mat has an absorbency of at least 4 litres of body fluid per square metre of absorption mat, with the proviso that when the odour absorbing constituent is natural fibre the fluid absorbent is not a hydroexpansible polymer powder or a natural fibre.
2. Absorption mat according to Claim 1, in which the bottom layer comprises viscose/cotton non-woven material provided with polythene film applied to one side.
3- Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the top layer is formed from non-woven material such as a mixture of cotton and viscose.
4. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the odour and fluid absorption occurs in one layer.
5- Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the intermediate layer for odour absorption comprises at least one of the following biodegradable odour absorbing constituents: natural fibres, wood shavings, coke, lignite, activated carbon, odour-absorbing granules, preferably natural zeolite or artificial zeolite.
6. Absorption mat according to Claim 5. in which the intermediate layer for odour absorption comprises the natural zeolite Adsorbex®.
7. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the intermediate layer comprises at least one of the following constituents as the fluid-absorbing constituent: natural fibres, fluid- absorbing granules, gelatin, sodium salt of polyacrylate, silica gel and starch.
8. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents are uniformly distributed over the bottom layer and are preferably fixed.
9- Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the intermediate layer also comprises polythene as the binding material for the odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents to bottom and top layer, and preferably also for fixing the odour-absorbing
and fluid-absorbing constituents.
10. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which at least one of the layers comprises selenium or a selenium derivative.
11. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which all constituents are sterilizable.
12. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which at least the top layer is provided with a bactericidal or bacteria- inhibiting material.
13- Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the edges are sealed.
14. Absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims, in which the edges are raised.
1 . Use of an absorption mat according to one of the preceding claims as an absorbent layer in a coffin.
16. Use of an absorption mat according to one of Claims 1 - 14 as a removable cover for a bed or seat for humans or animals with incontinence problems.
17. Use of an absorption mat according to one of Claims 1 - 14 as a removable cover for an operating table, dissecting table or stretcher.
18. Use of an absorption mat according to one of Claims 1 - 14 in a body bag or shroud.
19. Roll of at least one absorption mat according to one of Claims 1 - 14.
20. Method for making an absorption mat according to one of Claims 1 - 14, in which the constituents of the intermediate layer are applied in powder form to the layer serving as the top or bottom side, which constituents comprise odour-absorbing and fluid-absorbing constituents and polythene powder, following which the third layer is applied, while the layer ultimately forming the bottom side is provided with polythene film and the three-ply material is subjected to the passage of heat, during which the polythene powder binds the two covering layers.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP94926402A EP0711138A1 (en) | 1993-07-29 | 1994-07-29 | Deodorising fluids absorption mat, in particular for coffins, and its method of production |
| AU76250/94A AU7625094A (en) | 1993-07-29 | 1994-07-29 | Deodorising fluids absorption mat, in particular for coffins, and its method of production |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL9301325 | 1993-07-29 | ||
| NL9301325A NL9301325A (en) | 1993-07-29 | 1993-07-29 | Absorption mat for body fluid that absorbs both odor and moisture, and its use in particular in coffins, and a method for preparing such an absorption mat. |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO1995003769A2 true WO1995003769A2 (en) | 1995-02-09 |
| WO1995003769A3 WO1995003769A3 (en) | 1995-03-30 |
Family
ID=19862712
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/NL1994/000176 WO1995003769A2 (en) | 1993-07-29 | 1994-07-29 | Deodorising fluids absorption mat, in particular for coffins, and its method of production |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0711138A1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU7625094A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2168209A1 (en) |
| NL (1) | NL9301325A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1995003769A2 (en) |
Cited By (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2001078644A1 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2001-10-25 | Requiem Manuafcturing Pty Ltd | Improved sepulchral container |
| EP1243243A2 (en) * | 2001-03-20 | 2002-09-25 | Nannina De Vitis | Multi-layer absorbent lining for application inside coffins |
| EP1274789A1 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2003-01-15 | Puro-Systems Pty Ltd | Humidity sensitive composition |
| GB2463726A (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2010-03-31 | David Cooper | Non-woven laminated coffin lining material |
| EP2219441A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2010-08-25 | Paper Pak Industries | Lightweight absorbent body bag |
| ES2400260A1 (en) * | 2013-02-13 | 2013-04-08 | Conserfil Nature S.L. | Absorption and conservation filters for corpses and cadaveric remains (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
| JP2014039760A (en) * | 2012-08-23 | 2014-03-06 | Bun-San Co Ltd | Coffin and production method of the same |
| US9247753B2 (en) | 2000-07-06 | 2016-02-02 | Novozymes A/S | Preparation of dough or baked products |
| DE202014011538U1 (en) | 2014-04-03 | 2022-04-11 | Conserfil Nature S.L. | Ecological filter for the conditioning and preservation of corpses, human remains and cadaveric remains |
Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB908682A (en) * | 1957-11-01 | 1962-10-24 | Ingall Parsons Clive & Company | Improvements in or relating to the lining of coffins |
| EP0258144A1 (en) * | 1986-08-22 | 1988-03-02 | Fernand Gauchard | Sanitary fitting for a coffin |
| FR2635986A1 (en) * | 1988-09-02 | 1990-03-09 | Hygecobel | Absorbent material composition especially for post-mortem use |
| EP0498782A1 (en) * | 1991-02-07 | 1992-08-12 | Boliden Contech Ab | A dental treatment method |
| FR2679442A1 (en) * | 1991-07-25 | 1993-01-29 | Intissel Sa | Absorbent material and absorbent and impermeable material intended for sealing coffins and containers receiving parts of bodies and shrouding covers and bags |
-
1993
- 1993-07-29 NL NL9301325A patent/NL9301325A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
1994
- 1994-07-29 EP EP94926402A patent/EP0711138A1/en not_active Ceased
- 1994-07-29 AU AU76250/94A patent/AU7625094A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-07-29 WO PCT/NL1994/000176 patent/WO1995003769A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1994-07-29 CA CA002168209A patent/CA2168209A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB908682A (en) * | 1957-11-01 | 1962-10-24 | Ingall Parsons Clive & Company | Improvements in or relating to the lining of coffins |
| EP0258144A1 (en) * | 1986-08-22 | 1988-03-02 | Fernand Gauchard | Sanitary fitting for a coffin |
| FR2635986A1 (en) * | 1988-09-02 | 1990-03-09 | Hygecobel | Absorbent material composition especially for post-mortem use |
| EP0498782A1 (en) * | 1991-02-07 | 1992-08-12 | Boliden Contech Ab | A dental treatment method |
| FR2679442A1 (en) * | 1991-07-25 | 1993-01-29 | Intissel Sa | Absorbent material and absorbent and impermeable material intended for sealing coffins and containers receiving parts of bodies and shrouding covers and bags |
Non-Patent Citations (1)
| Title |
|---|
| DATABASE WPI Derwent Publications Ltd., London, GB; AN 92-270718 & EP,A,0 498 782 (BOLIDEN CONTECH AB) 12 August 1992 * |
Cited By (14)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2001078644A1 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2001-10-25 | Requiem Manuafcturing Pty Ltd | Improved sepulchral container |
| EP1274789A1 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2003-01-15 | Puro-Systems Pty Ltd | Humidity sensitive composition |
| EP1274789A4 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2005-05-04 | Puro Systems Pty Ltd | Humidity sensitive composition |
| KR100737025B1 (en) * | 2000-04-17 | 2007-07-09 | 퓨로-시스템즈 피티와이 리미티드 | Humidity sensitive composition |
| US9247753B2 (en) | 2000-07-06 | 2016-02-02 | Novozymes A/S | Preparation of dough or baked products |
| EP1243243A2 (en) * | 2001-03-20 | 2002-09-25 | Nannina De Vitis | Multi-layer absorbent lining for application inside coffins |
| EP1243243A3 (en) * | 2001-03-20 | 2003-08-13 | Nannina De Vitis | Multi-layer absorbent lining for application inside coffins |
| EP2219441A4 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2013-11-13 | Paper Pak Ind | Lightweight absorbent body bag |
| EP2219441A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2010-08-25 | Paper Pak Industries | Lightweight absorbent body bag |
| US9486380B2 (en) | 2007-11-05 | 2016-11-08 | Paper-Pak Industries | Lightweight absorbent body bag |
| GB2463726A (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2010-03-31 | David Cooper | Non-woven laminated coffin lining material |
| JP2014039760A (en) * | 2012-08-23 | 2014-03-06 | Bun-San Co Ltd | Coffin and production method of the same |
| ES2400260A1 (en) * | 2013-02-13 | 2013-04-08 | Conserfil Nature S.L. | Absorption and conservation filters for corpses and cadaveric remains (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
| DE202014011538U1 (en) | 2014-04-03 | 2022-04-11 | Conserfil Nature S.L. | Ecological filter for the conditioning and preservation of corpses, human remains and cadaveric remains |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1995003769A3 (en) | 1995-03-30 |
| EP0711138A1 (en) | 1996-05-15 |
| CA2168209A1 (en) | 1995-02-09 |
| AU7625094A (en) | 1995-02-28 |
| NL9301325A (en) | 1995-02-16 |
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