1
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)
COMPOSITION AND METHODOLOGY FOR ETHYLENE
RELEASE FROM 2-CHLOROETHYL PHOSPHONIC ACID
ECOFROST TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LIMITED
AN INDIAN COMPANY HAVING ADDRESS AT
SURVEY NO.134/1, 134/2, 130/3, PUNE-MUMBAI
BYPASS, HIGHWAY, JEEVAN NAGAR, TATHAWADE, PUNE-411033
MAHARASHTRA, INDIA
THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE SUBJECT MATTER AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED
2
FIELD OF PRESENT SUBJECT MATTER 5
[0001]
The present subject matter relates to the field of agricultural chemistry, specifically to methods for the controlled and rapid release of ethylene gas.
BACKGROUND
[0002]
Ethylene is widely recognized as a crucial plant hormone that initiates and regulates the ripening of climacteric fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and papayas. In 10 commercial fruit ripening operations, external sources of ethylene are introduced to ensure uniform ripening across large quantities of produce. Traditional methods for introducing ethylene include the use of ethylene gas cylinders, ethylene-releasing cans, and ethylene generators. However, these methods are associated with various challenges, particularly in terms of the controlled release, transportation, and storage 15 of ethylene, a highly flammable gas that demands stringent safety measures.
[0003]
As an alternative to direct ethylene application, ethephon (2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid), a well-established plant growth regulator, is used to release ethylene when decomposed under alkaline conditions. Ethephon solutions have been employed in agricultural applications such as post-harvest fruit ripening, where ethylene is 20 released through chemical decomposition. In typical operations, ethephon is applied either by dipping produce in the solution or by adjusting the pH of the solution with an alkaline agent like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which accelerates the release of ethylene.
[0004]
Despite its utility, the current methods of ethylene generation from ethephon 25 are subject to significant drawbacks, particularly in confined reaction spaces such as cold storage facilities or ripening chambers. In such environments, the release of ethylene can be uneven due to the slow rate of decomposition, which is sensitive to pH and temperature fluctuations. The inefficiency of ethylene dispersion is further compounded by limited gas diffusion in confined spaces, leading to inconsistent 30 ripening of the stored produce. These issues are exacerbated in cold storage, where temperature control is critical, yet existing methods may fail to maintain the optimal conditions for rapid and uniform ethylene release.
3
[0005]
Furthermore, the decomposition of ethephon in confined spaces often results in 5 the formation of by-products such as sodium chloride and one or more from the set of Monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and Trisodium phosphate. Managing the concentration of ethylene and by-products in cold storage environments presents an additional challenge, making it difficult to achieve consistent ripening outcomes across the entire batch of produce. 10
[0006]
Therefore, there is a recognized need for more efficient methods of releasing ethylene in confined spaces, particularly in cold storage and other controlled environments where conventional methods of ethylene generation from ethephon prove inadequate.
SUMMARY 15
[0007]
This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to a method for the controlled release of ethylene gas. This summary is neither intended to identify essential features of the present subject matter nor intended to determine or limit the scope of the present subject matter.
[0008]
Embodiment of the present disclosure present technological improvements as 20 solutions to one or more of the above-mentioned technical problems recognized by the inventor(s).
[0009]
In the embodiment of the present subject matter, a method for the controlled and rapid release of ethylene gas in reaction space is disclosed. The method involves preparing a composition by mixing a 12% to 18% w/v solution of sodium hydroxide 25 (NaOH) with a 39 to 40% w/v solution of 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid (ethephon). The mixing is performed in the ratio of 1:2 to 2:1, with a flow rate of 12-18 ml/min, and the composition is stirred at a speed of 300-500 rpm. The composition is heated to a temperature between 80°C and 100°C, thereby releasing ethylene. This method is particularly suitable for use in confined spaces, such as ripening chambers, where a 30 rapid and controlled release of ethylene is desired. The by-products of the reaction include sodium chloride (NaCl) and one or more from the set of monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and trisodium phosphate. The method allows
4
for efficient and consistent ethylene release, optimizing ripening conditions in
5 controlled environments.
[0010]
The present subject matter provides a composition for the rapid release of ethylene in a reaction space. The composition comprises 39 to 40% w/v of 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid (ethephon) with a pH range of 5 to 7, and 12-18% w/v sodium hydroxide. These components are mixed in a ratio of 1:2 to 2:1 under a flow 10 rate of 12-18 ml/min and heated to a temperature between 80°C and 100°C. This composition is specifically formulated to rapidly release ethylene when combined and heated under controlled conditions, making it highly effective for use in ripening chambers and other confined spaces where ethylene gas is needed for ripening climacteric fruits, such as bananas. 15
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011]
The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, there are shown in the present document example constructions of the disclosure; however, the disclosure is not limited to the specific system/ apparatus or 20 method disclosed in the document and the drawings.
[0012]
Figure 1 illustrates a method for the controlled and rapid release of ethylene gas in reaction space, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0013]
Figure 2 illustrates foaming formed during experimentation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. 25
[0014]
Figure 3 illustrates precipitate formed during experimentation in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0015]
Figure 4 illustrates charring formed during experimentation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0016]
Further, the figures depict various embodiments of the present subject matter 30 for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods
5
illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the present
5 subject matter described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT SUBJECT MATTER
[0017]
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present subject matter. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural 10 forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude or rule out the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof. 15 The process steps, method, steps, protocols, or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods, and protocol may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any order practical. Further, some 20 steps may be performed simultaneously, in parallel, or concurrently. The aim of this specification is to describe the present subject matter without limiting the present subject matter to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. A person skilled in the relevant art may realize the variations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fall within the scope of the present subject matter, and such variations 25 are deemed to be within the scope of the current subject matter. It may be appreciated that various other modifications and changes may be made to the embodiment described without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter.
[0018]
Before the present subject matter is described, it is to be understood that this present subject matter is not limited to particular methodologies described, as these 30 may vary as per the person skilled in the art. It is also to be understood that the
6
terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular
5 embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter.
[0019]
This will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the present subject matter may easily be produced in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered as merely illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the present subject matter being 10 indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and it will be appreciated that many variations in detail are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present subject matter and all such variations therefore intended to be embraced therein.
[0020]
In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific 15 details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the method and composition for controlled and rapid release of ethylene gas in reaction space. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An 20 individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only one of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein.
[0021]
Referring to the background, in commercial fruit ripening operations, ethylene gas plays a critical role in inducing ripening in climacteric fruits such as bananas and 25 mangoes. The conventional methods of introducing ethylene into ripening chambers rely on ethylene gas cylinders, ethylene-releasing cans, and ethylene generators. However, these methods present challenges in terms of safety, efficiency, and consistency. Ethylene is highly flammable, necessitating stringent safety protocols for storage, transportation, and usage, which increases operational costs. 30
[0022]
Ethephon (2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid) has been used as an alternative ethylene source, releasing ethylene when decomposed under alkaline conditions. Despite this, existing methods for ethylene generation from ethephon are often
7
inefficient in confined spaces such as cold storage or ripening chambers. These
5 methods are limited by slow and uneven ethylene release, which is highly dependent on factors such as pH, temperature, and stirring. Additionally, the decomposition of ethephon can produce unwanted by-products like sodium chloride (NaCl) and one or more from the set of Monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and Trisodium phosphate, complicating the ripening process and potentially contaminating 10 the reaction space.
[0023]
In confined spaces, such as cold storage facilities, the limitations of the current methods become more pronounced. The slow ethylene release leads to inconsistent ripening across batches of produce, and the accumulation of by-products can hinder the overall process. 15
[0024]
The present subject matter offers a method and composition for the rapid and efficient release of ethylene gas in controlled reaction spaces, addressing the shortcomings of existing methods. The method involves preparing a composition by mixing a 12% to 18% w/v solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with a 39 to 40% w/v solution of 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid (ethephon). The mixing process is carefully 20 controlled, with the sodium hydroxide solution being added to the ethephon solution at a flow rate of 12-18 ml/min. This is followed by stirring the composition at a speed of 300-500 rpm and heating the mixture to a temperature between 80°C and 100°C to initiate rapid ethylene release.
[0025]
By controlling the pH of the ethephon solution (adjusted to between 5 and 7 25 prior to mixing), the present subject matter ensures optimal conditions for ethylene generation. The combination of precise temperature control and stirring results in a faster and more uniform release of ethylene, even in confined spaces such as ripening chambers with volumes of around 45 24-50 m³. This controlled release overcomes the non-precise ethylene release and excessive accumulation on reaction byproduct as seen 30 in previous methods and ensures optimum ethylene release and consistent ripening of subjected commodities like bananas across the entire chamber.
8
[0026]
The present subject matter further addresses the issue of by-products, which has 5 been a persistent challenge in prior art. By maintaining a controlled reaction environment, the formation of sodium chloride (NaCl) and sodium phosphate is minimized, preventing unwarranted by-product contamination of the reaction space. This enhances the overall efficiency of the ripening process and eliminates the operational difficulties caused by excessive by-product accumulation in previous 10 methods.
[0027]
In comparison to existing methods that are slow and difficult to control, this present subject matter provides a safer, more efficient, and scalable solution for generating ethylene. The method’s efficiency in confined spaces also reduces the amount of ethylene needed for uniform ripening, further enhancing the economic 15 viability of the process. Moreover, the present subject matter eliminates the safety concerns associated with handling pure ethylene gas, offering a much safer alternative by generating ethylene on-site through a controlled chemical reaction.
[0028]
The present subject matter provides a method for the rapid release of ethylene in a reaction space by using a chemical composition that includes 2-Chloroethyl 20 phosphonic acid (ethephon) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in specific concentrations and conditions. The method begins by preparing a solution of ethephon at a concentration of 39 to 40% w/v and a sodium hydroxide solution at a concentration between 12% and 18% w/v.
[0029]
The method involves the controlled addition of the sodium hydroxide solution 25 to the ethephon solution, with the addition rate maintained at a flow rate of 12-18 ml/min. This controlled flow ensures a gradual but consistent release of ethylene gas. The ratio of the sodium hydroxide solution to the ethephon solution is maintained within the range of 1:2 to 2:1. This specific range is essential for achieving optimal reaction conditions that maximize the decomposition of ethephon and the subsequent 30 release of ethylene gas.
[0030]
During the addition process, the reaction mixture is continuously stirred at a speed of 300-500 rpm. This stirring speed is critical to ensure proper mixing of the
9
reactants, prevent localized overheating,
reaction foaming, and promote a uniform 5 reaction. In addition to stirring, the temperature of the reaction mixture is maintained between 80°C and 100°C. This temperature range is crucial for accelerating the decomposition of ethephon, leading to the rapid release of ethylene gas.
[0031]
The method can be performed in a confined reaction space, such as a ripening chamber with a volume of up to of around 24-50m³. The controlled conditions of the 10 method, including the pH adjustment of the ethephon solution to a range of 5-7, ensure efficient controlled ethylene release without the formation of excessive by-products that could interfere with the process or the ripening environment. The pH adjustment prior to mixing helps stabilize the ethephon solution and enhances its reactivity with sodium hydroxide, leading to faster and more complete ethylene generation. 15
[0032]
This method is particularly useful in commercial fruit ripening operations, where rapid and consistent ethylene release is required to induce uniform ripening across batches of climacteric fruits, including bananas, mangoes, and papayas. The method's ability to rapidly reach ethylene concentrations of 1000-1500 ppm in the reaction space makes it an effective solution for large-scale ripening processes. 20
[0033]
Additionally, the method allows for fine control over the ethylene concentration, as the gas concentration in the reaction space can be monitored to ensure the target range of 1000-1500 ppm is achieved. This capability enhances the overall precision of the ripening process, reducing waste and optimizing fruit quality.
[0034]
The composition used in the method for rapid ethylene release consists 25 primarily of 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid (ethephon) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The ethephon solution concentration of 39 to 40% w/v in appropriate volume is taken to provide a sufficient amount of the active compound necessary for ethylene generation. The sodium hydroxide solution is prepared at a concentration between 12% and 18% w/v, which is optimal for creating an alkaline environment that triggers the 30 decomposition of ethephon into ethylene.
[0035]
The two solutions are mixed in a specific volume ratio, ranging from 1:2 to 2:1, to ensure that the reaction proceeds efficiently without causing excessive by-product
10
formation. The controlled flow rate of 12
-18 ml/min during the mixing process ensures 5 that the reaction occurs gradually, allowing for better control over the release of ethylene gas.
[0036]
The composition is designed to release ethylene rapidly when the two components are combined and subjected to stirring (300-500 rpm) and heating (80°C-100°C). The pH of the ethephon solution is adjusted to a range of 5 to 7 before mixing 10 with sodium hydroxide, enhancing the rate of decomposition and ensuring efficient ethylene production. This pH adjustment is essential for preventing premature decomposition of ethephon and promoting a rapid reaction once mixed with the alkaline solution.
[0037]
The by-products of the reaction include sodium chloride (NaCl) and one or 15 more from the set of Monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and Trisodium phosphate, which are formed as a result of the chemical decomposition. These by-products are manageable and do not interfere with the ripening process, as the ethylene gas is the primary product required for fruit ripening.
[0038]
The composition is especially effective in confined spaces, such as ripening 20 chambers, where controlled and rapid ethylene release is necessary. Its formulation ensures that ethylene is released in a controlled manner, reducing the risk of overexposure or underexposure of fruits to the gas, thereby maintaining optimal ripening conditions.
[0039]
The method and composition for the rapid release of ethylene in a reaction 25 space offer several significant technical advantages over conventional methods:
[0040]
Faster Ethylene Release: The method enables rapid ethylene generation by carefully controlling the mixing, stirring, and heating conditions. The combination of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid (ethephon) in specific ratios, along with optimized temperature and pH levels, accelerates the decomposition 30 of ethephon, ensuring that ethylene is released within a short time frame. This is particularly useful in commercial fruit ripening processes where time-sensitive and uniform ripening is essential.
11
[0041]
The ability to control ethylene release in confined spaces, such as ripening 5 chambers, allows for precise regulation of gas concentration. The method ensures that ethylene levels at least reach the suggested target range of 100-150 ppm, required for efficient fruit ripening. The method is optimized to release higher ethylene concentration to compensate the unaccounted ethylene leakage in the ripening chambers. Monitoring and adjusting the gas concentration in real-time prevents 10 overexposure or underexposure of the fruits to ethylene, improving ripening quality and consistency.
[0042]
The method is highly effective in confined environments like cold storage and ripening chambers. Prior art methods often struggled with gas diffusion and uneven ethylene distribution in such spaces, leading to inconsistent ripening. This present 15 subject matter, by ensuring controlled mixing and ethylene release, eliminates these inefficiencies, delivering uniform ripening throughout the chamber.
[0043]
The present subject matter minimizes the formation of undesirable by-products, such as sodium chloride (NaCl) and one or more from the set of Monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and Trisodium phosphate. By maintaining 20 specific reaction conditions, the present subject matter ensures that the by-products do not interfere with the ripening process or contaminate the environment. This advantage significantly reduces the operational complexity seen in prior art methods, which often required additional steps to manage by-product accumulation.
[0044]
Safer Handling and Operation: Unlike direct ethylene gas cylinders or 25 generators, which require strict safety measures due to the flammability of ethylene, the present subject matter generates ethylene through an on-site chemical reaction. This reduces the risks associated with handling large quantities of ethylene gas, enhancing overall safety in commercial operations. The ability to generate ethylene as needed further minimizes storage and transport risks. 30
[0045]
The method is scalable for both small and large operations. The ability to control the flow rate, stirring speed, and temperature allows for flexibility in ethylene production, making the present subject matter adaptable to various operational scales.
12
This scalability is particularly advantageous in industrial settings where varying
5 volumes of fruit may need to be ripened under controlled conditions.
[0046]
In one embodiment of the present subject matter arrangement for ethylene release from ethephon in a 24-50 m³ room space is assembled. The experimental setup consists of a heating magnetic stirrer that heats the ethephon solution in a beaker via a belt heater. An alkaline solution is added in a controlled process. A temperature probe 10 sensor and a pH meter are used to monitor the temperature and pH levels of the reaction mixture.
[0047]
In the arrangement the release of ethylene at varying concentrations and volume ratios of ethephon and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was evaluated. Table 1 present data showing the effect of mixing a 39 to 40% ethephon solution with a 15% NaOH solution 15 at different ratios.
[0048]
Table 1: Ethylene release obtained on mixing of various volume ratio of 30% NaOH in 39 to 40% Ethephon
S. No.
39 to 40% Ethephon (ml)
30% NaOH (ml)
Ratio of Ethephon: 30% NaOH
Time (min)
Max Ethylene (ppm)
Corresponding reaction temp (°C) at max ethylene (ppm)
Observations
1
30
30
3:3
10
88
83
Reaction precipitate
2
30
20
3:2
12
238
60
Reaction precipitate
3
30
10
3:1
14
105
80
Reaction charring
4
20
30
2:3
42:30
56
125
Reaction precipitate
5
10
30
1:3
47
165
125
Reaction charring
[0049]
Reaction precipitates were observed when 39 to 40% ethephon was mixed with 20 30% NaOH in a 3:3, 3:2, or 2:3 ratio, while charring was observed in the 3:1 or 1:3
13
ratios. These results indicate that varying the ratio of NaOH to ethephon impacts the
5 reaction by-product formation.
[0050]
Table 2: Effect of temperature modulation on ethylene release obtained on mixing of various volume ratio of 15% NaOH in 40 ml 39 to 40% Ethephon
Sr. No.
Ethephon (ml)
15% NaOH (ml)
Max Ethylene (ppm)
Corresponding time
(for max Ethylene conc) min
1
40
70
401
28
2
40
80
445
25.30
3
40
90
464
25.30
[0051]
As shown in Table 2, experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of 10 increase in the alkaline solution volume with ethephon on the ethylene release. Ethylene concentrations and corresponding times for maximum ethylene generation are listed in Table 2. It was observed that with fixed 40 ml Ethephon solution, addition of mixing addtional10 ml of 15% NaOH solution from 70 ml to 80 ml led to 9.9% increase in ethylene concentration, whereas subsequent equal addition of NaOH led to 15 only 4.1% increase in ethylene concentration, indicating reaction saturation.
[0052]
Table 3: Ethylene release obtained on mixing of different volumes of 39 to 40% Ethephon and 15% NaOH in 1:2 ratio
S. No.
Ethephon (ml)
15% NaOH (ml)
Total Volume (ml)
Max Ethylene (ppm)
Corresponding time (min)
(for max Ethylene conc)
Volume consumed (ml)
1
20
40
60
202
43:06
14
2
40
80
120
445
25.30
42
3
80
160
240
972
16:29
45
14
[0053]
The formation of by-products, including sodium chloride (NaCl) and sodium 5 phosphate was also evaluated. As summarized in Table 4, these by-products were analyzed at different reaction stages. The table shows the maximum ethylene concentrations obtained, corresponding reaction times, and the percentage of NaCl and NaH2PO4 (monosodium phosphate) formed. Reducing the reaction volume and maintaining optimal pH and temperature conditions helped minimize the formation of 10 these by-products.
Table 4:
Ethephon (ml)
15% NaOH (ml)
Max Ethylene (ppm)
Corresponding Time (for max Ethylene conc) min
NaCl (%)
NaH2PO4 (%)
40
80
445
25.30
10.35
14.16
[0054]
No referring to the Figure, Figure illustrates a method 100 for controlled and rapid release of ethylene and Figure 2 illustrates precipitate creation Figure 3 illustrates 15 charring and figure 4 illustrates foaming occurring during experimentation for developing the method and composition in accordance with the present subject. In the following section various embodiments of the present subject matter has been described
[0055]
In one embodiment, a 39 to 40% w/v solution of 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid 20 (ethephon) is mixed with a 15% w/v sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. The sodium hydroxide is added to the ethephon solution at a flow rate of 15 ml/min, with the mixture stirred at 400 rpm and heated to 90°C. The pH of the ethephon solution is adjusted to 6 prior to mixing. Ethylene is rapidly released, and the method achieves an ethylene concentration of 1200 ppm in a 24-50 m³ ripening chamber within 30 minutes. 25
[0056]
In another embodiment, a 12% w/v sodium hydroxide solution is used to mix with a 39 to 40% w/v ethephon solution in a 2:1 ratio. The mixture is stirred at 350 rpm and heated to 85°C, with the flow rate set to 12 ml/min. This configuration is used for smaller set up, achieving ethylene release in spaces as small as 12 m³. The pH of the
15
ethephon solution is adjusted to 5.5, resulting in a rapid rise in ethylene concentration
5 to 1000 ppm within 20 minutes.
[0057]
In a further embodiment, the method is used for large-scale operations in cold storage environments with a chamber volume of 50 m³. A 39 to 40% w/v ethephon solution is mixed with an 18% w/v sodium hydroxide solution at a flow rate of 18 ml/min. The mixture is stirred at 500 rpm and heated to 100°C. The pH is adjusted to 10 7, and ethylene is rapidly generated, achieving a concentration of 1500 ppm within 40 minutes. This embodiment is particularly effective for large-scale fruit ripening operations where rapid ethylene diffusion and uniformity are critical.
[0058]
In another embodiment, the method is applied in cold storage facilities where temperature modulation is critical. Here, the ethephon solution is first cooled to below 15 50°C before being heated to 80°C- 100°C. This method ensures an initial slow release of ethylene, followed by rapid gas production once the optimal temperature is reached. This embodiment helps maintain a stable environment in temperature-sensitive cold storage facilities, preventing temperature spikes and ensuring controlled ripening.
20
16
We claim, 5
1. A method for controlled and rapid release of ethylene in a reaction space, the method comprising:
preparing a composition based on mixing 12% to 18% w/v solution of a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to 39 to 40% w/v of a 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid, wherein mixing of the sodium hydroxide 10 solution to the 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid is in a ratio of 1:2 to 2:1 at a flow rate of 12-18 ml/min;
stirring the composition at a speed in the range of 300-500 rpm; and
heating the composition to a temperature between 80°C and 15 100°C, thereby by releasing ethylene.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ethylene release is conducted in a confined space with a volume of 24-50 m³ and wherein by products include the sodium chloride (NaCl) and one or more from the set of Monosodium phosphate, Sodium hydrogen phosphate and Trisodium phosphate. 20
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises adjusting and maintaining a pH of the 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid to a range of 5 to 7 by mixing with sodium hydroxide.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises accelerating the ethylene release by an initial temperature reduction of the composition to below 25 50°C followed by heating of the composition to a temperature within the range of 80°C to 100°C.
17
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the concentration of ethylene gas in a 5 reaction space is monitored to achieve a target concentration of 1000-1500 ppm.
7. A composition for a rapid release of an ethylene in a reaction space, wherein the composition comprising:
39 to 40% w/v of a 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid, and wherein the pH 10 range is between 5 to 7; and
12-18% w/v sodium hydroxide mixed with the 2-Chloroethyl phosphonic acid in a ratio of 1:2 to 2:1 under a flow rate of 12-18 ml/min at a temperature between 80°C to 100°C.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the ethylene released is used for ripening 15 climacteric fruits, including bananas.