CA1312253C - Dispenser for carpet cleaner - Google Patents
Dispenser for carpet cleanerInfo
- Publication number
- CA1312253C CA1312253C CA000604297A CA604297A CA1312253C CA 1312253 C CA1312253 C CA 1312253C CA 000604297 A CA000604297 A CA 000604297A CA 604297 A CA604297 A CA 604297A CA 1312253 C CA1312253 C CA 1312253C
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- solvent
- surfactant
- propellant
- foam
- admixture
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
A dispenser for cleaning carpets comprising a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head. The dispenser contains an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture whereby the solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and the surfactant is foam-forming.
The dispenser delivers under pressure the solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon the solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time. The solvent in the mixture thereafter evaporates, causing a second foam to form and rise through the fabric surface. The surfactant is present in an amount of about 0.1% to 30.0% by weight; the solvent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to 30% by weight; and the propellant is present in an amount of about 1.0% to 30.0% by weight.
A dispenser for cleaning carpets comprising a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head. The dispenser contains an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture whereby the solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and the surfactant is foam-forming.
The dispenser delivers under pressure the solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon the solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time. The solvent in the mixture thereafter evaporates, causing a second foam to form and rise through the fabric surface. The surfactant is present in an amount of about 0.1% to 30.0% by weight; the solvent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to 30% by weight; and the propellant is present in an amount of about 1.0% to 30.0% by weight.
Description
DISPENSER FOR CARPE'I' CLEANER
3~2~53 Th~.s l.S a d:i.vi.sional application of applicatlon Serial No. ~97,389 filed ll December, 19~5.
BACKGROUND ~l~ THE INVE~ITION
Present methods of cleaning carpets, and compositions 5 appropriately suited therefor, include:
1. Aero ol Foams: Typical products are based on surfactant/solvent blends which, by means of gaseous propellants, blow into stiff, dry foams which adhere to the upper surface O~
carpet fioers but, owing to the relatively dry, high density oam, 10 are incapable oE independently penetrating the carpet fibers.
Thus, these foams rnust be driven into carpet fabric piles with wet sponge or other type mops. Thereafter, in order to separ~te the soil rrom the carpet ta~ric, vigorous, and sometlmes exhaustive, abrading of the carpet fibers with a brush must be accomplished.
Disadvantages of foam aerosols are a~parent. Aside Eroln sometimes arduous e~Eorts re~uired to drive such a cleaner in~o the car~et fabric, such aerosol Eoams actually remove relatively little soiling material Erom carpet tabric. ~urthermore, if one seeks to improve the emulsifying effects of the Eoam aerosol by 20 adding more water, either directly, or via the sponge mop, it appears the only results are the deleterious ones of thoroughly wetting the carpet backing, thus necessitating the need to dry out the carpet fibers over a longer period oE time, and further drivin~ the foam aerosol composition itself into the fibers.
25 ~hetner tnis type of cleaner is used with water or not, a tacky residue may be left on the surface oE the carpet Eibers. This tnen ~rolnotes re-soilirlg oE the carpet fibers. Tne result is that it such a carpet fa~ric surface is cleane~ with aerosol foams, the more often it must be re-cleaned.
~22~3 T~le only ap~arent advanta~e that ~oam aerosols have is ~hat they are relatively inexpensive and re~uire no special equipment.
However, economic benefits of these cleaners are obviously severely mitigated due to the re-soiling phenomenon.
2. Rotary ~rush Systems: lrhis system usually reyuires professional machinery, generally spe~king brushes mounted on a rotary drum wnich is driven by a motor housed ln an upright, broom-like appliance. This system is actually nothing more than a more effective way Ot driving in a cleaner such as the 10 aforementioned foam cleaners into carpet fabric piles. Because of the motor-driven action, this particular system is extremely wearing upon thick, pile and shag-type carpets. Many of the fibers are abraded out of the fabric of the car~et, and thus, uyon drying, the carpet does not ~fluff~ as readily as before.
lS Eventually, the life of the carpet may be decreased by the abrasive action of such cleaners. Further, previously expressed disadvantages of increased wetting, longer drylng time and relatively inefficient cleaning, are lessened, but, in view of the cost, and special e~uipment that need to be used in this system, 20 such system is not significantly better than cleaning with aerosol foams. Furthermore, even with the rotary brush system, there is significant re-soiling.
3. ~Steam Extraction": Although nominally called a Wsteam . . _ extraction~ system, this type of cleaner does not utilize steamr 25 but rather pressurized, neated water in com~ination with surfactants and other cleaning agents. In practice, the surfactant and other agents are dissolved in a solution of hot water, then injected directly into the carpet fabric via a pressurized delivery system. The surfactants wet the caryet 30 fabric pile, however, the hot water also aids in the penetration of the carpet fabric and in the emulsification of soiling agents and particles, as normally hiyher temperatures ~3~2~3 will cause an increase in surface wetting a~ilities o a given surfactant composition. After the surfactant solution has had sufficient time to emulsify and loosen soiling particles in the carpet fabric, it (and the water associated therewith) are physically rernoved from the carpet pile by means of the powerful vacuuming system generally available with this "steam extraction~
system. Thus, problems of drying are generally avoided by the physical removal of the water and surfactant solution by the vacuum. However, unless the carpet is then ~rinsed~ with clear 10 water solutions and re-vacuumeo, resoiling may again occur because the carpet has a tacky residue.
Tne major, ap~arellt disa~vantages of such a ~steam extraction~
system are the expenses of renting the ~steam extraction~ system, and purchasing the chemicals needed therefor. Furthermore, it is inconvenient for the ordinary consumer to have to go to the local supermarket or hardware store to o~tain these items.
Professional cleaners may utilize either this system or the prior, rotary brush system. By using pr~essional cleaners, even more expense is added.
Disclosure of the Inv~ntion .
Tne newly-discovered invention ~rovides a colnposition for cleaning fa~rics, which comprises:
(a) approxi~ately 0.1% to 30.0~ be weicJht of a foam forming surfactant;
(b) approxi~ately 0.5% to 20.0% by weight of a volatile organic solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air;
:~3122~3 (c) a~L roximately 3.~'~ to SO.U'~ by wei~nt of a propellant;
(d) approximately 0.5~ to 20.U~ by weight o a builder: and (e) the remainder as water.
~uct~er, the newly-discovered invention relates to a method for cleaning soiled fabrics having Eibers containing soi.ling particles, comprising:
~ a) ap~lying to said fibers an aqueous, solvent/surfactal1t admixture, said solvent having a cOnsistent evaporation rate in amDient air and said surractant beiny ~oaln ~orming;
(b) collapsing without abrasion said admixture into said fibers and emulsifying and se~regatiny said soiling par~icles during a controlled residence time;
(c) evaporating said solvent so as to Eorm said admixture into a foam, elevatincJ said soiling particles substantially ~o the lS surface of said Ei~ers.
In yet another aspect oE the invention, whj.~h is t.he subjec~. of thls d.ivj.slonal applical;i~on,.~.s pl~ovided a dispenser ~or a Eabric cleaner, said dispenser comprising:
dis~en~in~ means containing an a~ueous, solvent/sur~actant ~dmixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in 20 ambient air ~nd said surfactant being oaln ~orminy:
said dispensinq means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a ~a~ric surLace, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial oam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time;
13~22~3 said solvent in said admixture evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise up through said fabric sur~ace; and said surfactant present in an amount o~ about 0.1% to 3~.0%
by weighti said solvent present in an amount of about 0.5% to 30% by weight: and said propellant present in an amount of about 1.0~ to 30.0% by weight.
Brief Description_of the Drawings Fig. 1 depicts the dispensing of the cleaner of the invention from a pressurized dispenser as a rather porous, quickly collapsing foam.
Fig. 2 depicts the foam immediately after collapse.
~ig. 3 depicts the formation of a secondary foam rise.
Detailed Description of the Invention The disadvantages of the present carpet cleaning methods and compositions used therein have been previously~described at length. The instant invention surprisingly appears to address and remedy substantially nearly all o~ the heretofore mentioned disadvantages.
In addressing initially the cleaning problems experienced with the prior art cleaners, especially, aerosol foams, and rotary brush systems, it was discovered that not only was penetration of the carpet fabric and emulsification of the soils lodged therein problematic, but also sufficiently loosening such soilinq particles so that they could be vacuumed up along with the surfactant used via an ordinary carpet vacuum cleaner. Generally, although some soil could be loosened from the carpet fabric, it will only be that superficial soil near to the surface of the carpet fabric.
_5_ ~3122~3 It was postulated that a proper solvent/surfactant admixture which could penetrate the fibers and emulsify the soiling particles lodged therein would solve the problem if the thus dislodged soiling particles and the solvent/surfactant admixture could be made to rise to the surface of the carpet fibers where it could be easily picked up by vacuum cleaners, brooms, etc.
It was proposed that in said solvent/surfactant admixture, a solvent be included which had a consistent evaporation rate.
The solvent of concern should be a volatile organic solvent 10 which, after being dispensed, will volatilize. Suprisingly, due to volatilization of the solvent, the solventls vapor pressure causes the fabric cleaner of this invention to "blow~ into a foam, carrying the solvent/surfactant admixture and the emulsified soiling particles substantially to the surface of the carpet fibers.
It is important that the evaporation rate of this organic, volatile solvent be consistent, but delayed long enough so that the surfactant has suitable time to penetrate the carpet fabric and emulsify the soiling particles lodged therein. ~his is called 20 controlled residence time. Finally, after this controlled residence time period, a secondary re-oaming occurs during a consistent blow-up time. This further novel aspect of the invention, the consistent blow-up or reforming time, is the time from initial application of the cleaner until the time a secondary foam rises and attains equilibrium at the carpet surface.
Surprisingly, it has been found that unlike the physical abrasion methods of foam aerosols and rotary brush systems, no brushing in or other means of physically driving this ~3~2~
solvent/surfactant admixture into carpet fabric pile is needed.
In ~act, it may be disadvantageous to physically drive the admixture of the invention into carpet fabric piles. It is speculated that brushing in the solvent/surfactant admixture may hinder its re-foaming capacity because more rapid volatilization of the solvent is promoted, or the solvent is physically separated from the solvent/surfactant admixture. q~his theory is for the purposes of explanation and not meant to restrict the scope of embodiments o this invention.
1. Surfactants A substantial number of diverse, non-analogous surfactants may be utilized in this invention. For example, nonionicr anionic, cationic and amphoteric suractants may be used in the present invention. The only requirement for the particular surfactant 15 chosen is that it must form a foam. Therefore, those skilled in the art would know that certain surfactants, particularly those having defoaming properties, would not be suitable for use in this invention.
Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants may include 20 polyoxyethylenes, polyoxypropylenes; alkylpolyoxyethylenes;
alkylarylpolyoxyethylenes; ethoxylated alkylphenols; carboxylic acid esters such as glycerol esters of fatty acids, certain polyethylene gIycol esters, anhydrosorbitol esters, ethoxylated anhydrosorbital esters, ethylene and methylene glycol esters, 25 propanediol esters, and ethoxylated natural fats and oils (e.g.
tall oils, linseed oils, coco oils, etc.); carboxylic amides such as 1:1 amine acid diethanolamine condensates, 2:1 amine/acid diethanolamide condensates, and monoalkanolamine condensates such as ethanolamine condensates, and isopropanol-amine condensates;
~3122~
polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides; certain polyalkylene oxide block co-polymers such as polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene block co-polymers; and other miscellaneous nonionic surfactants such as organosilicones.
suitable anionic surfactants may include anionic aminocarboxylates, such as N-acyl- sarcosinates, alkyl, aryl, alkoyl, and alkylol sarcosinates, and acylated protein hydrolysates; sulfonates such as alkyl, aryl, alkyl aryl - (e.g., alkyl benzenesulfonates), whether branched, or linear (e.g., ~LAS,~ or linear dodecylbenzene sulEonate), alkoyl-, or alkylol-sulfonates, N-acyl - N - alkoyltaurates, sulfoethyl esters of fatty acids, and alpha-olefin sulfonates, sulfates such as alkyl, aryl, alkylaryl, alkoyl, and alkylol sulfates, sulfates o natural fats and oils (e.g.; castor, coconut, tallow oils), sulfated diunsaturated fatty acids, sulfated alkanolamides, sulfated esters, ethoxylated and sulfated alkylphenols, ethoxylated and sulfated alcohols (also known as alkyl ether sulfates); and phosphate esters, which are generally phosphorylated nonionics such as ethoxylated alcohols, ethoxylated alkylphenols, and polyoxythylene-polyoxypropylene block co-polymers.
.
Particularly preferred anionic surfactants used in this invention are alkyl sarcosinates and alkyl ether sulfates, or combinations thereof. It is not generally understood why these particular surfactants have been found so effective, but the interaction between the solvents and these surfactants results in optimal foaming, collapse and refoaming in the practice of the invention. Commercially available alkyl ether sulfates include those sold by Alcolac Chemical Company under the trademark Sipon ES. Alkyl sarcosinates are manufactured by, among others, W. R.
Grace & Co., Hampshire Chemical Division using the trademark Hamposyl.
1~22~3 Suitable cationic surfactants may include a wide range of classes of compounds, including non-oxygen-containing alkyl mono-, di and polyamines, and resin derived amines; oxygen-containinq amines, such as amine oxides (which appear to act as cationics in acidic solutions, and as nonionics in neutral or alkaline solutions);.polyoxyethylene alkyl and alicyclic amines;
substituted alkyl, alkylol imidazolines, such as 2-alkyl-l-(hydroxyethyl)-2- imidazolines; amide linked amines, and quaternary ammonium salts (~quatsa).
~urther, possibly appropriate, ampho~eric surfactan~s containing both acidic and basic hydrophilic moieties in their structure, may include alkyl betaines, amino carboxylic acids and salts thereof, amino-carboxylic acid este.rs, and others. Further 1.
surfactants may be selected from those disclosed in Kirk-Othmer, Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Third ~d., Vol. 22, pp.
347-387, and McCutcheon'-s Deterqents and Emulsifiers, North . _ .. . . .
American Ed., 1983.
. - -It is preferred to use a range of about 0.1 to 30.0~, more preferabl~ 0.1 to 25.0%, and most preferably 0.1 to 10.0~
surfactant in the formulas of this invention. These ranges are preferred to achieve optional cleaning, foaming and refoaming characteristics.
2 SolVents As herein before mentioned, the solvents of the invention include any suitable, volatile, organic solvent with a consistent : evaporation rate, thereby providing the required controlled residence time, and blow-up or refoaming time of this invention.
These organic, volatile solvents may include saturated alkanes of _9_ ~3~22~
1 to 12 carbons, preferably 2 to B carbon atoms, one example of which is hexane. other solvents which are appropriate for use are substituted alkanes, such as the halogenated alkanes, such as the chlorofluorohydrocarbons commonly sold under the trademark ~reon, by E. I. du Pont de Nemours, carbon tetrachloride, and perchloroethylene mixtures of alkanes, and substituted alkanes, and mixtures of any of the foregoing are also included in the present invention.
Further, the preferred solvents of this invention appear to fit certain characteristics. For example, as shown in T~BLE I
below, preferred solvents appear to have temperatures of no more than about 100 at lOOmm of mercury, and no more than about 175C at 760mm of mercury, as defined in the Handbook of Chemistry and Physics:
~312~3 TABLE I
Temperatures at Which 100 mm & 760 mm Pressures Exist C at C at Solvent 10~mm 760mm 5 Hexane . 16 69 Chloroform 10 61 l'richloro methyl Silane 12 66 Methanol 21 65 Acetonitrile 27 82 10 1-2 dichloroethane 29 82 1,1 Dichloroethane 17 57 Acrylonitrile 23 79 Methyl acetate 9 58 Ethyl Formate 5 54 15 Bromopropane 18 71 l-Propane Thiol 15 67 Propyl Amine 0.5 48 Isopropyl Formate 18 68 Sec/Iso Butyl chloride 14 68 20 Diethyl, difluorosilane 10 58 Isobutyl amine 19 69 Tetramethyl-di-Borane lS 69 Methyl cyclopentane 18 72 2-or 3~Methyl pentane 18(8) 72(60) 25 Diisopropyl ether 14 68 C at C at 100mm 760mm Pentane -13 36 Hexane 16 69 30 Heptane 42 98 Octane 66 126 Nonane 88 151 ~ . , .
13~ 2~3 100mm 760mm Decane 109 174 Undecane 128 196 Dodecane Tridecane 163 234 Tetradecane 179 253 Pentadecane 194 271 Hexadecane 209 288 Heptadecane 223 303 10 Octadecane 236 317 Nonadecane 248 330 1, 1, 1, Trichloroethane 20 74 Trichloroethylene 31 87 ~ 12 ~ ~ ~~ t~Y~
i3~2~3 3. ~ropellants In order to deliver and build the first foam for use ir~ this particular embodiment of the invention, it is preferable to deliver the solvent/surfactant admixture via a ~aseous propeliant. Additionally, it appears that the propellant, which of necessity is itself a solvent, interacts with the solvents used in the invention to cause the necessary action to prornote initial foam formation, collapse and refoaming. Such propellant could be, but need not be, a hydrocarbon, of'from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, such as Inethane, ethane, n-propane, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, or isopentane and mixtures thereof. The propellant may also be selected from halogenated hydrocarbons including, but not limited to flurocarbons, chlorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbons, and mixtures thereof. Still further propellants in~lu~e haloyenate~ alkenes, for e'xample vinyl chloride and vinyl fluoride; and dimethyl ether. Some of these latter examples are ~uickly flammable and may need to be combined with another gas, eg. CC12P2, to bring them into a non-flammable state. These exemplary gases belong generally to the group of colnpounds calle~ liquefiable gases.
However, for this particular embodiment of the invention, the propellant to be used is not restricted to these particular gases. Various compresed tnon-liquefiable) gases which are applicable for use include nitrous oxide, nitroqen, carbon dioxide, and inert, Noble gases, such as helium and neon.
A~though pressure within the dispenser, i.e., can pressure, does not appear to be critical, a preferred range of about 5 to 130 lbs./in , more preferably 10 to 130 lbs./in , and most preEerably 50 to 130 lbs./in . lrhe am~urlt oE ~ropellant is adjusted to take into consideration the effects of added solvent, ~312~3 hornoyeneity of the ingredients, dispenser size, etc. Other exemplary propellants are depicted in M.A. 30hnson, The Aerosol Handboo~, 1st Ed., (Wayne ~. Dorland Co.) (1~72), pages 270, 276-77, 2B2, 321, 324, 329, and 344-45 4. Builders Tne surfactant/solvent admixture of the present invention may also include at least one builder. ^Such a builder would tend to promote the emulsification of the surfactant into the foa~ phase.
10 Examples of such builders include those of alkaline nature (pH
7.0+), such as potassium silicate, commonly sold under the trademark Kasil by PQ Corporation, soda ash (sodium carbonate), and other alkali metal salts of silicates, phosphates, and carbonates. Other builders such as ethylene diamine-tetraacetate 15 (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) an~ organic builders such as the alkali metal salts of sulfosuccinates, succinates, acetates and maleates. The types of builders used are not limited but they should be substantially water soluble or dispersible. Materials which are not soluble may have ~eleterious effect on both 20 dispensins and cleaning properties of the invention. It is for this particular reason that abrasive materials, such as silica sand, perlite and the like are avoided in the invention.-It has been found that the following ranges of thesolvent/aqueous surfactant/propellant admixture may be preferred:
:~3~2~3 0.1% to 10.0~ by weight of (100~) surfactant;*
0.1~ to 70 0% by weight of volatile organic solvent;
1.0% to 30.0% by weight of the propellant;
preferably, 0.0~ to 20.0% by weight of the builder; and the remainder as water.
In further embodiments o~ this invention, 0.5% to 10.0~ of cleaning adjuvants may be added, selected from such adjuvants as dyes, fragrances and antimicrobially active agents, such as the substituted phenols sold by Dow Chemical Company under the 10 trademark Dowicide, and by Monsanto Chemical Company under the trademark santophen, and fabric softeners, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, e.q., such as those sold by Lonza Chemical Company under the trademark 8ardac (these types of quaternary ammonium surfactants apparently also Inay act as ~ermicidal agents), . Dlspenser In yet another embodiment of the inven~ion, which is the subjec~ of this divisional application, a dispenser is provided to deli.ver the fabrlc cleaners. As a means of delivering -the novel composi-tions of this inven-tion, a typical pressurized dispensing means comprises:
~Those skilled in the art know that ~any commercial surfactants, such as anionic surfactants, are typically sold as queous solutions containing certain percentages of active (i.e., 100%) surfactant.
.
13122 ~
a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head, said dispensing means containing an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and said surfactant being foam-orming, said dispensing means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time, and said solvent in said mixture thereafter evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise through said fabric surface.
By referring to the drawings, this dispensing means is most aptly illustrated in action, delivering the composition. Figs.
l,2 and 3 show in sequence (l) the delivery of the composition, which breaks into an initial foam; (2) the collapse of the initial foam into the selected fabric surface; and (3) the formation of the secondary foam after a controlled residence period Although again, it is not precisely understood why the invention performs in the manner shown, it is speculated that the propellant, which is a volatile organic solvent itself, may volatilize, rapidly leaving the foam. This may cause the foam to ~break~ or collapse for reasons of lessened surface tension.
AlternatiVely, it is possible that with the propellant having left, the solvent itself may temporarily act as a ~defoamer.~
Next, the solvent, which may be somewhat less volatile than the propellant, appears to volatilize, causing the secondary foam rise or "blow.~ Reasons oe this secondary foam rise are also speculative.
~12~3 This best mode depiction of the invelltion can be accomplished by adapting many prior art dispensers and by means known to those skilled in the art. For example, prototypical dispensers are disclosed in Monson, U.S. 3,541,581, column 10, lines 55~75, column 11, lines 1-7S and column 12, lines 1-64.
Unlike the materials therein disclosed, namely post-foaming gels, applicant does not require isolation of his compositions from the aerosol delivery systems.
In fact, applicant believes that there is a cooperative interaction between the solvent/sur~actant admixture and the propellants used which result in the unusual first foam/collapse/
second foam characteristics of the invention.
The following EXAMPLE I exemplifies one preferred embodiment of the compositions of this invention:
In~edient Weight %
Sipon ES t75% H20; 25% sodium 4.0 lauryl ether sulfate) KaSil #1 (2otassium silicate) 6.0 Hexane tSolvent) 26.0 Propellant A-70 (hydrocarbon mix)20.0 Water ~.o TOTAL 100.0 Use of this formula embodied in EXAMPLE I proved a fair representative of the first foam forming, collapsing, and second foam blowing admixture of this invention.
~3~22~3 A further example depicting the ranges of the preferred carpet cleaner compositions follows:
Component Ranges Hamposyl (sodium alkyl sarcosinate) 0.0- 3.0%
7s.0% water; 25.0~) Sipon ES (Sodium lauryl ether sulfate) 2.0-12.0%
KaSil ~1 (potassium silicate) 0.0- 8.0%
Hexane (solvent) 1.0-35.0~
A-70 Propellant (hydrocarbon mix) 5.0-20.0%
Water 92.0-22.0%
In the examples 3-48 in TABLE II, combinations of the following preferred ranges of components comprising embodiments of the .invention are set out:
.~ J~JJ'~
13~22~3 TA~LE II
. .
~XAMPLES:
~ HAMPOSYLl KASIL~l A70 PROP %SR5 % SIPON ES2 HEXANE WATER
-3 0.0 2.00.0 10.0 5.0 83.0 -133.23 4 0.0 2.00.0 10.0 20.0 ~8.0 -40.01 0.0 2.00.0 35.0 5.0 58.0 -69.02 6 0.0 ~.00.0 35.0 20.0 43.0 -43,26 7 0.0 2.08.0 10.0 5.0 75.0 49.58 8 0.0 2.08.0 10.0 ~0.0 60.0 31.18 9 0.0 2.08.0 35.0 5.0 50.0 ~0.92 0.0 2.08.0 35.0 20.0 35.0 15.61 11 0.0 1~.00.0 `10.0 5.0 73.0 -52.21 12 0.0 12.00.0 10.0 20.0 58.0 -54.08 13 0.0 ` 12.0 0.0 35.0 5.0 48.0 -3~.56 14 0.0 12.00.0 35.0 20.0 33.~ -39.77 0.0 12.08.0 10.0 5.0 65.0 26.93 16 0.0 12.08.0 10.0 20.0 50.0 7.77 17 0.0 12.08.0 35.0 5.0 40.0 -10.60 18 0.0 12.08.0 35.0 20.0 ~5.0 9.13 19 3.0 2.00.0 10.0 5.0 80.0 ~105.59 2~ 3.0 2.00.0 10.0 20.0 65.0 -165.61 21 3.0 2.00.0 35.0 5.0 55~0 - -116.07 22 3.0 2.00.0 35.0 20.0 ~0.0 -16~.43 23 3.0 2.0~.0 10.0 5.0 72.0 13.02 24 3.0 2.08.0 10.0 20.0 57.0 15.23 3.0 2.08.0~ 35.0 5.0 47.0 69.95 26 3.0 2.08.0 35.0 20.0 32.0 4.54 27 3.0 12.00.0 10.0 5.0 70.0 -91.78 28 3.0 12.00.0 10.0 20.0 55.0 103.21 29 3.0 12.00~0 35.0 5.0 45.0 39.89 - 19 - ~ ~, I ~JJ~)g~
1 3122~3 3.0 12.0 0.0 35.020.0 30.0-80.62 31 3.0 12.0 ~.0 10.0 5.0 62.0-32.65 32 3.0 12.0 8.0 10.020~0 47.028.39 33 3.0 12.0 8.0 35.0 5.0 37.039.21 34 3.Q 12.0 8.0 35.020.0 22.011~35 0.0 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 54.0lg.7~
36 3.0 7.~ 4.0 22.512.5 51.01.14 37 1.5 2.0 4.0 22.512.5 57.530.~9 38 1.5 12.0 4.0 22.512.5 47.5-34.21 39 1.5 7.0 0.0 22.512.5 56~5-101.65 1.5 7.0 8.0 22.512.5 48.5-4.95 41 1.5 7.0 4.0 10.012.5 65.0-40.~6 42 1.5 7.0 4.0 35.012.5 4~.0-16.92 43 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.5 5.0 60.0-2.42 44 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.520.0 45.0-24.~1 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-32.04 46 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-1~.26 47 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-~.97 ., 1. Hamposyl is W.R. Grace & Company, Hampshire Chemical Division's trademark for sodium alkyl sarcosinate 2. Sipon ES is Alcolac Chemical Corporation's trademark for sodium lauryl ether sulfate.
3. KaSil is PQ's trademark for potassium silicate, a builder.
4. A-70 propellant is a mixture of three hydrocarbons: isobutane, propane and butane, with an average vapor pressure of 72 psig.
5. SR is % Soil Removal, determined according to the soiling tests in TEST I, below.
- 20 - ~ J~)3 ~3122~3 TEST I
CARPET SOILING AND COMPARATIVE CLEANING METHODOLOGY
A Cleaning Comparison Study .
Swatches of test carpet measuring 15.7cm x 12.6cm were cut from Karastan Monticello "Opalite~ (an off-white, polyester car~et). All were aligned with the nap going from top to bottom.
Three replicates were used for all tests.
Soilin~ and Resoiling Procedure Swatches were placed in a clean 15 centimeter (~cm") x 21.5cm 10 Norton ceramic ball-mill jar with 45 2cm x 2cm balls; 0.2000 ~
.0002 gram (~9~) of a modified Sanders & Lambert soil (see below) was added to the jar. The jar was set on a roller-type tumbler for 15 minutes. The jar's orientation was reversed, and tumbled for an additional 15 minutes. The swatch was rernoved from the 15 jar, and vacuumed in the direction of the nap four passes with a Eureka ~odel S Two-Speed Cordaway vacuum cleaner.
Resoiled swatches were rehumidified in a 31.5 C, 90-95% relative humidity room for two hours. These were then removed, and allowed to re-equilibrate to ambient conditions for approximately one half 20 hour. The swatches were then soiled using the procedure described above.
The performance of WOOLITE (trademark of American Home Products Corp.) and the invention of this application were compared in three different tests, consisting of six swatches each (tllree per treatment). In the first test, unsoiled swatches were treated five times. Another test used carpet soiled once and subsequently yiven five treatments. The third test used carpet sub]ected to five complete cycles o soiliny and cleaning.
Swatches were soiled witll 0.20g of a rnodified Sanders & Lambert 30 soil forrnulation.
; _ ~,~
~3:~2253 Modified Sanders & Lambert Soil Formula~ion Portland Cement 27.7%
Silica, 200 mesh 27.7%
Bandy ~lack Clay 29.3%
5 Decolorizing Carbon 1.5%
Ferric Oxide 0.3%
Stearic Acid 1.5%
Oleic Acid 1.5%
Palm Oil 3.0%
10 Cholesterol 1.0%
Squalene 1.0 Octadecane 1.0 Octadecene 1.0~
Linoleic Acid 2.G%
15 Paraffin Oil 1.5%
100 . 0%
100 grams of soil were prepared for this test. 150 grams of deionized water were added to the mixture. All ingredients were mixed in a Norton ceramic ball mill containing 50 balls for 2 20 hours. The mixture was remoYed from the ball mill and dried overnight. The soil was returned to a clean ball mill, and tumbled again for 2 hours. The soil was ground and sieved in a No. 3-sieve.
Only one aerosol can of either the invention or WOOLITE was used 25 throughout the experiment. After cleaning, the swatches were vacuumed six passes with a Eureka Model S two-speed Cordaway, and then instrumentally graded on a Gardner XL031 colorimeter.
~3~22~3 B. Colorimetric Ana~
Color reflectance data was obtained from all swatches after each treatment and vacuuming. The most important reflectance parameter in this study is the degree of lightnesstL). Readings taken after soiling (Ls) or cleaning (Lw) were compared with that o~ an untreated swatch (Lo). Changes in L-values represent the amount of svil deposited or removed after treatment, and are reported in TABLES II and III as % SOil Removed (S.R.).
Swatches were read on a Gardner XL-31 colorimeter that was 10 connected to a Hewlett-Packard 9815A calculator/printer. The YXZ, large beam was used. Five sequential readings were taken in a 5cm x Scm square in the center of each swatch.
` TEST II
FLAMMABILITY ~ESTS
~lammability may be tested by any one or more of ive representative methods:
1. Flame Projection: An open flame is placed in the middle of a laboratory table. A straight edge rule is centered with respect to tlie flame tip. The composition to be tested is sprayed towards 20 the open flame. Under current laboratory standards, ignition 12 inches from the center of the flame is acceptable. Ignition from 18 inches, however, may indicate unacceptable flammability.
~ 2~ ~7~ ` J /)~J~
~312253 2. Elash Point Determination: Plash point is de~ined as ~he lowest temperature at which the vapors emanating from a combustible substance will i~nite when exposed to a small 1ame.
Among the various methods used are: closed-up, open-cup, tag closed-cup, tag open-cup, and Cleveland open cup methods, all of which are known to practitioners skilled in this art.
3. Closed Drum Test: A 55 gallon drum, or other suitable container, is fitted with a hinged lid. A source of ignition is placed on the bottom floor of the container. The combustible 10 substance is introduced, usually by spraying into the container.
4. Tower Test: A long graduated cylinder with apertures at 1 . _ inch intervals running along its length, is set up. Pieces of masking tape cover reach aperture. Some of the combustible substance to be tested is introduced into the bottom of the 15 cylinder. To test degree of flammability/ the pieces of tape are pulled off the`apertures, beginnin~ from the top, and the uncovered aperture is exposed to a flame to test ignition. The height at which ignition occurs is recorded.
5. Trough Test: The combustible substance is introduced-into 20 a very narrow trough and ignited. If flame burns the length of the trough,, tne substance is deemed 1ammable.
In TABLE III,, below, examples 50-76 show the % soil removal in accordance with the methodology of TEST I and flammability in accordance with TEST II, above.
In this particular series, the "Tower Test" was used to test flammability. Additionally, comparative test results were obtained in these areas or the aerosol carpet cleaner sold under the trademark "WOOLITE~ by American Home Products Corp.(Example 77).
- 2~ -~3~22~
TAELE I I I
Soil Removal and Flammabili~
~
Exarnple KASIL ~1 A-70 PROP. ~SOIL REMVL
~ SIPON ES HEXANE WATER FLAMMABILITY
48 0.06.0 5.0 5.0 84.015.7 3.5 49 0.06.0 5.0 20.0 69.0~0.0 1.5 0.06.0 25.0 5.0 64.0-1.6 1.0 51 0.06.0 25.0 20.0 ~.019.4 0.0 52 0.010.0 5.0 5.0 80.04.4 0.0 53 0.010.0 5.0 20.0 65.0g.8 1.0 5~ 0.010.0 25.0 5.0 60.014.6 1.0 0.010.0 25.0 20.0 45.09.1 2.0 56 4.06.0 5.0 5.0 80.048.8 1.5 57 ~.06.0 5.0 20.0 65.032.3 5.5 58 4.06.0 25.0 5.0 60.043,3 4.5 59 4.06.0 25.0 20.0 45.045.2 7.5 4.010.0 5.0 5.0 76.045.6 A.0 61 4.010.0 5.0 20.0 61.044.9 5.0 62 4.010.0 25.0 5.0 56.057.9 5.0 63 4.010.0 25.0 20.0 410064.2 7.5 64 0.08.0 15.0 12.5 64.513.4 2.5 4.08.0 15.0 12.5 60.548.0 7.5 66 2.06.0 15.0 12.5 64.546.3 5O0 67 2.010.0 15.0 12.5 60.560.6 7.0 68 2.08.0 5.0 12.5 72.552.5 5.0 69 2.08.0 25.0 12.5 52.54~.0 5.5 2.08.0 15.0 5.0 7~.056.7 2.0 71 2.08.0 15.0 20.0 55.052.6 5.0 72 2.08.0 15.0 12.5 62.548.4 5.5 73 2.08.~ 15.0 12.5 62.552.2 6.5 74 2.08.0 15.0 12.5 62.547.0 5.5 1312~3 Table IV below shows in detail numerous examples in which the method of this invention was practiced. In this methodology, formulations as shown in Examples 48-74 of Table IV, were initially applied from aerosol containers onto a strip of Karastan ~Emperor~ Forest Palm carpet. A11 formulations were dispensed in a S minute burst to ensure uniformity in data. TWQ trials were performed for each formulation.
After initial application, time for foam collapse was recorded, and height of the initial and collapsed foam column was 10 recorded additionally, penetration of collapsed foam into the carpet strip was measured.
Then, the start (collapse), and finish (Development o ~ull Blow) of the secondary foam blow was recorded, as well as the edge width and final height of the secondary foam.
The ~controlled residence time phase" alluded to earlier is determined as the difference between the collapse time and the full blow time. The slgnificance of this controlled residence time phase is that this is when the cleaning composition has substantially penetrated below the surface of the carpet, and causes soiling materials adhering to the carpet fibers to become segregated and emulsified. When the secondary foam rise commences, these soiling particles are believed to be carried to the surace of the carpet fibers along with the secondary foam rise. Therefore~ this controlled residence time is particularly 25 significant, and as emplrically determined, should last at least 1 minute, and ranges upward to about 1 hour's time. Preferably, this controlled residence time is from 2-30 minutes, more preerably 2-20 minutes.
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~3~2~3 Cleaniny results obtained within the foregoing examples exceeded conventional aerosol foams and were substantially the same as steam extraction for Sanders-Lambert Test. Compared with a commercially available carpet cleaner, WOOLITE, the formulation of this invention clearly outperformed WOOLITE in cleaning results.
Costs for the method of this invention were substantially less than for other rotary brush or steam extraction cleaning methods as well. Further, as indicated, no special equipment is needed to practice the method of this invention.
Examples of the invehtion wherein diferent solvents are used Gbo~
J are shown in TABLE V, be~ Note that cleaning results are still superior to that for American Home Products Woolite cleaner in direct comparison tests.
2 ~
PREFERRED MET~ D
In the preferred method of practicing this invention, it has been found desirable to form a first, substantially low viscosity foam, by:
Delivering the solvent/surfactant admixture of the present invention via a hydrocarbon or other propellant, and applying said first foam to a soiled carpet surface,.having fibers containing soiling particles;
Collapsing said first foam without abrasion into said fibers and emulsifyinq and segregating said soiling particles during a controlled residence time phase; and Evaporatlng the solvent of the solvent/surfactant admi.xture so-as to blow the emulsified soil and surfactant into a second foam, elevating said soiling particles su-bstanti-ally to the surface of said fibers.
. .
The pressurized delivery of solvent/surfactant to the surface of the carpet fibers forms the emulsive phase necessary to build the first foam.
However, it is not entirely understood why this first foam collapses and penetrakes into the carpet fibers, thereby emulsifying soiling particles within the fibersO It is postulated that within the foam are hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers which form a micelle to keep the solvents (water and organic~ and surfactants emulsified. These hydrophilic/hydrophobic interfaces of the present formulations of the invention apparently break down almost immediately upon being dispensed, causing the collapse of the first foam into the carpet fibers. Unexpectedly, this collayse resulted in thorough penetration of the fibers and promoted emulsi~ication and segregation of soiling particles in the fibers thereby.
Finally, as hereinbefore described, the volatile organic solvent component of the solvent/surfactant admixture volatilizes, causing the admixture to blow into a second foam. This brought about a second, surprising result: the previously emulsified, segregated, soiling particles appeared to have been elevated to substantially the surface of the carpet fibers. After drying, botn the soiling materials and the admixture may c~onveniently be vacuumed up or otherwise removed.
The foregoing examples, embodiments, and descriptions are ~y way of exemplification, and not intended to limit the scope and eyuivalents of the invention. E~uivalent embodiments which would be apparent to the reasonably skilled practitioner are encompassed withi-n the scope of this--invention.-- ~or example~ other fabrics may be eleaned using the method of this invention. The method may be modified to include a procedure for coatiny ~ahrics with waterproof or dirt resistant coatings.
3~2~53 Th~.s l.S a d:i.vi.sional application of applicatlon Serial No. ~97,389 filed ll December, 19~5.
BACKGROUND ~l~ THE INVE~ITION
Present methods of cleaning carpets, and compositions 5 appropriately suited therefor, include:
1. Aero ol Foams: Typical products are based on surfactant/solvent blends which, by means of gaseous propellants, blow into stiff, dry foams which adhere to the upper surface O~
carpet fioers but, owing to the relatively dry, high density oam, 10 are incapable oE independently penetrating the carpet fibers.
Thus, these foams rnust be driven into carpet fabric piles with wet sponge or other type mops. Thereafter, in order to separ~te the soil rrom the carpet ta~ric, vigorous, and sometlmes exhaustive, abrading of the carpet fibers with a brush must be accomplished.
Disadvantages of foam aerosols are a~parent. Aside Eroln sometimes arduous e~Eorts re~uired to drive such a cleaner in~o the car~et fabric, such aerosol Eoams actually remove relatively little soiling material Erom carpet tabric. ~urthermore, if one seeks to improve the emulsifying effects of the Eoam aerosol by 20 adding more water, either directly, or via the sponge mop, it appears the only results are the deleterious ones of thoroughly wetting the carpet backing, thus necessitating the need to dry out the carpet fibers over a longer period oE time, and further drivin~ the foam aerosol composition itself into the fibers.
25 ~hetner tnis type of cleaner is used with water or not, a tacky residue may be left on the surface oE the carpet Eibers. This tnen ~rolnotes re-soilirlg oE the carpet fibers. Tne result is that it such a carpet fa~ric surface is cleane~ with aerosol foams, the more often it must be re-cleaned.
~22~3 T~le only ap~arent advanta~e that ~oam aerosols have is ~hat they are relatively inexpensive and re~uire no special equipment.
However, economic benefits of these cleaners are obviously severely mitigated due to the re-soiling phenomenon.
2. Rotary ~rush Systems: lrhis system usually reyuires professional machinery, generally spe~king brushes mounted on a rotary drum wnich is driven by a motor housed ln an upright, broom-like appliance. This system is actually nothing more than a more effective way Ot driving in a cleaner such as the 10 aforementioned foam cleaners into carpet fabric piles. Because of the motor-driven action, this particular system is extremely wearing upon thick, pile and shag-type carpets. Many of the fibers are abraded out of the fabric of the car~et, and thus, uyon drying, the carpet does not ~fluff~ as readily as before.
lS Eventually, the life of the carpet may be decreased by the abrasive action of such cleaners. Further, previously expressed disadvantages of increased wetting, longer drylng time and relatively inefficient cleaning, are lessened, but, in view of the cost, and special e~uipment that need to be used in this system, 20 such system is not significantly better than cleaning with aerosol foams. Furthermore, even with the rotary brush system, there is significant re-soiling.
3. ~Steam Extraction": Although nominally called a Wsteam . . _ extraction~ system, this type of cleaner does not utilize steamr 25 but rather pressurized, neated water in com~ination with surfactants and other cleaning agents. In practice, the surfactant and other agents are dissolved in a solution of hot water, then injected directly into the carpet fabric via a pressurized delivery system. The surfactants wet the caryet 30 fabric pile, however, the hot water also aids in the penetration of the carpet fabric and in the emulsification of soiling agents and particles, as normally hiyher temperatures ~3~2~3 will cause an increase in surface wetting a~ilities o a given surfactant composition. After the surfactant solution has had sufficient time to emulsify and loosen soiling particles in the carpet fabric, it (and the water associated therewith) are physically rernoved from the carpet pile by means of the powerful vacuuming system generally available with this "steam extraction~
system. Thus, problems of drying are generally avoided by the physical removal of the water and surfactant solution by the vacuum. However, unless the carpet is then ~rinsed~ with clear 10 water solutions and re-vacuumeo, resoiling may again occur because the carpet has a tacky residue.
Tne major, ap~arellt disa~vantages of such a ~steam extraction~
system are the expenses of renting the ~steam extraction~ system, and purchasing the chemicals needed therefor. Furthermore, it is inconvenient for the ordinary consumer to have to go to the local supermarket or hardware store to o~tain these items.
Professional cleaners may utilize either this system or the prior, rotary brush system. By using pr~essional cleaners, even more expense is added.
Disclosure of the Inv~ntion .
Tne newly-discovered invention ~rovides a colnposition for cleaning fa~rics, which comprises:
(a) approxi~ately 0.1% to 30.0~ be weicJht of a foam forming surfactant;
(b) approxi~ately 0.5% to 20.0% by weight of a volatile organic solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air;
:~3122~3 (c) a~L roximately 3.~'~ to SO.U'~ by wei~nt of a propellant;
(d) approximately 0.5~ to 20.U~ by weight o a builder: and (e) the remainder as water.
~uct~er, the newly-discovered invention relates to a method for cleaning soiled fabrics having Eibers containing soi.ling particles, comprising:
~ a) ap~lying to said fibers an aqueous, solvent/surfactal1t admixture, said solvent having a cOnsistent evaporation rate in amDient air and said surractant beiny ~oaln ~orming;
(b) collapsing without abrasion said admixture into said fibers and emulsifying and se~regatiny said soiling par~icles during a controlled residence time;
(c) evaporating said solvent so as to Eorm said admixture into a foam, elevatincJ said soiling particles substantially ~o the lS surface of said Ei~ers.
In yet another aspect oE the invention, whj.~h is t.he subjec~. of thls d.ivj.slonal applical;i~on,.~.s pl~ovided a dispenser ~or a Eabric cleaner, said dispenser comprising:
dis~en~in~ means containing an a~ueous, solvent/sur~actant ~dmixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in 20 ambient air ~nd said surfactant being oaln ~orminy:
said dispensinq means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a ~a~ric surLace, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial oam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time;
13~22~3 said solvent in said admixture evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise up through said fabric sur~ace; and said surfactant present in an amount o~ about 0.1% to 3~.0%
by weighti said solvent present in an amount of about 0.5% to 30% by weight: and said propellant present in an amount of about 1.0~ to 30.0% by weight.
Brief Description_of the Drawings Fig. 1 depicts the dispensing of the cleaner of the invention from a pressurized dispenser as a rather porous, quickly collapsing foam.
Fig. 2 depicts the foam immediately after collapse.
~ig. 3 depicts the formation of a secondary foam rise.
Detailed Description of the Invention The disadvantages of the present carpet cleaning methods and compositions used therein have been previously~described at length. The instant invention surprisingly appears to address and remedy substantially nearly all o~ the heretofore mentioned disadvantages.
In addressing initially the cleaning problems experienced with the prior art cleaners, especially, aerosol foams, and rotary brush systems, it was discovered that not only was penetration of the carpet fabric and emulsification of the soils lodged therein problematic, but also sufficiently loosening such soilinq particles so that they could be vacuumed up along with the surfactant used via an ordinary carpet vacuum cleaner. Generally, although some soil could be loosened from the carpet fabric, it will only be that superficial soil near to the surface of the carpet fabric.
_5_ ~3122~3 It was postulated that a proper solvent/surfactant admixture which could penetrate the fibers and emulsify the soiling particles lodged therein would solve the problem if the thus dislodged soiling particles and the solvent/surfactant admixture could be made to rise to the surface of the carpet fibers where it could be easily picked up by vacuum cleaners, brooms, etc.
It was proposed that in said solvent/surfactant admixture, a solvent be included which had a consistent evaporation rate.
The solvent of concern should be a volatile organic solvent 10 which, after being dispensed, will volatilize. Suprisingly, due to volatilization of the solvent, the solventls vapor pressure causes the fabric cleaner of this invention to "blow~ into a foam, carrying the solvent/surfactant admixture and the emulsified soiling particles substantially to the surface of the carpet fibers.
It is important that the evaporation rate of this organic, volatile solvent be consistent, but delayed long enough so that the surfactant has suitable time to penetrate the carpet fabric and emulsify the soiling particles lodged therein. ~his is called 20 controlled residence time. Finally, after this controlled residence time period, a secondary re-oaming occurs during a consistent blow-up time. This further novel aspect of the invention, the consistent blow-up or reforming time, is the time from initial application of the cleaner until the time a secondary foam rises and attains equilibrium at the carpet surface.
Surprisingly, it has been found that unlike the physical abrasion methods of foam aerosols and rotary brush systems, no brushing in or other means of physically driving this ~3~2~
solvent/surfactant admixture into carpet fabric pile is needed.
In ~act, it may be disadvantageous to physically drive the admixture of the invention into carpet fabric piles. It is speculated that brushing in the solvent/surfactant admixture may hinder its re-foaming capacity because more rapid volatilization of the solvent is promoted, or the solvent is physically separated from the solvent/surfactant admixture. q~his theory is for the purposes of explanation and not meant to restrict the scope of embodiments o this invention.
1. Surfactants A substantial number of diverse, non-analogous surfactants may be utilized in this invention. For example, nonionicr anionic, cationic and amphoteric suractants may be used in the present invention. The only requirement for the particular surfactant 15 chosen is that it must form a foam. Therefore, those skilled in the art would know that certain surfactants, particularly those having defoaming properties, would not be suitable for use in this invention.
Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants may include 20 polyoxyethylenes, polyoxypropylenes; alkylpolyoxyethylenes;
alkylarylpolyoxyethylenes; ethoxylated alkylphenols; carboxylic acid esters such as glycerol esters of fatty acids, certain polyethylene gIycol esters, anhydrosorbitol esters, ethoxylated anhydrosorbital esters, ethylene and methylene glycol esters, 25 propanediol esters, and ethoxylated natural fats and oils (e.g.
tall oils, linseed oils, coco oils, etc.); carboxylic amides such as 1:1 amine acid diethanolamine condensates, 2:1 amine/acid diethanolamide condensates, and monoalkanolamine condensates such as ethanolamine condensates, and isopropanol-amine condensates;
~3122~
polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides; certain polyalkylene oxide block co-polymers such as polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene block co-polymers; and other miscellaneous nonionic surfactants such as organosilicones.
suitable anionic surfactants may include anionic aminocarboxylates, such as N-acyl- sarcosinates, alkyl, aryl, alkoyl, and alkylol sarcosinates, and acylated protein hydrolysates; sulfonates such as alkyl, aryl, alkyl aryl - (e.g., alkyl benzenesulfonates), whether branched, or linear (e.g., ~LAS,~ or linear dodecylbenzene sulEonate), alkoyl-, or alkylol-sulfonates, N-acyl - N - alkoyltaurates, sulfoethyl esters of fatty acids, and alpha-olefin sulfonates, sulfates such as alkyl, aryl, alkylaryl, alkoyl, and alkylol sulfates, sulfates o natural fats and oils (e.g.; castor, coconut, tallow oils), sulfated diunsaturated fatty acids, sulfated alkanolamides, sulfated esters, ethoxylated and sulfated alkylphenols, ethoxylated and sulfated alcohols (also known as alkyl ether sulfates); and phosphate esters, which are generally phosphorylated nonionics such as ethoxylated alcohols, ethoxylated alkylphenols, and polyoxythylene-polyoxypropylene block co-polymers.
.
Particularly preferred anionic surfactants used in this invention are alkyl sarcosinates and alkyl ether sulfates, or combinations thereof. It is not generally understood why these particular surfactants have been found so effective, but the interaction between the solvents and these surfactants results in optimal foaming, collapse and refoaming in the practice of the invention. Commercially available alkyl ether sulfates include those sold by Alcolac Chemical Company under the trademark Sipon ES. Alkyl sarcosinates are manufactured by, among others, W. R.
Grace & Co., Hampshire Chemical Division using the trademark Hamposyl.
1~22~3 Suitable cationic surfactants may include a wide range of classes of compounds, including non-oxygen-containing alkyl mono-, di and polyamines, and resin derived amines; oxygen-containinq amines, such as amine oxides (which appear to act as cationics in acidic solutions, and as nonionics in neutral or alkaline solutions);.polyoxyethylene alkyl and alicyclic amines;
substituted alkyl, alkylol imidazolines, such as 2-alkyl-l-(hydroxyethyl)-2- imidazolines; amide linked amines, and quaternary ammonium salts (~quatsa).
~urther, possibly appropriate, ampho~eric surfactan~s containing both acidic and basic hydrophilic moieties in their structure, may include alkyl betaines, amino carboxylic acids and salts thereof, amino-carboxylic acid este.rs, and others. Further 1.
surfactants may be selected from those disclosed in Kirk-Othmer, Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Third ~d., Vol. 22, pp.
347-387, and McCutcheon'-s Deterqents and Emulsifiers, North . _ .. . . .
American Ed., 1983.
. - -It is preferred to use a range of about 0.1 to 30.0~, more preferabl~ 0.1 to 25.0%, and most preferably 0.1 to 10.0~
surfactant in the formulas of this invention. These ranges are preferred to achieve optional cleaning, foaming and refoaming characteristics.
2 SolVents As herein before mentioned, the solvents of the invention include any suitable, volatile, organic solvent with a consistent : evaporation rate, thereby providing the required controlled residence time, and blow-up or refoaming time of this invention.
These organic, volatile solvents may include saturated alkanes of _9_ ~3~22~
1 to 12 carbons, preferably 2 to B carbon atoms, one example of which is hexane. other solvents which are appropriate for use are substituted alkanes, such as the halogenated alkanes, such as the chlorofluorohydrocarbons commonly sold under the trademark ~reon, by E. I. du Pont de Nemours, carbon tetrachloride, and perchloroethylene mixtures of alkanes, and substituted alkanes, and mixtures of any of the foregoing are also included in the present invention.
Further, the preferred solvents of this invention appear to fit certain characteristics. For example, as shown in T~BLE I
below, preferred solvents appear to have temperatures of no more than about 100 at lOOmm of mercury, and no more than about 175C at 760mm of mercury, as defined in the Handbook of Chemistry and Physics:
~312~3 TABLE I
Temperatures at Which 100 mm & 760 mm Pressures Exist C at C at Solvent 10~mm 760mm 5 Hexane . 16 69 Chloroform 10 61 l'richloro methyl Silane 12 66 Methanol 21 65 Acetonitrile 27 82 10 1-2 dichloroethane 29 82 1,1 Dichloroethane 17 57 Acrylonitrile 23 79 Methyl acetate 9 58 Ethyl Formate 5 54 15 Bromopropane 18 71 l-Propane Thiol 15 67 Propyl Amine 0.5 48 Isopropyl Formate 18 68 Sec/Iso Butyl chloride 14 68 20 Diethyl, difluorosilane 10 58 Isobutyl amine 19 69 Tetramethyl-di-Borane lS 69 Methyl cyclopentane 18 72 2-or 3~Methyl pentane 18(8) 72(60) 25 Diisopropyl ether 14 68 C at C at 100mm 760mm Pentane -13 36 Hexane 16 69 30 Heptane 42 98 Octane 66 126 Nonane 88 151 ~ . , .
13~ 2~3 100mm 760mm Decane 109 174 Undecane 128 196 Dodecane Tridecane 163 234 Tetradecane 179 253 Pentadecane 194 271 Hexadecane 209 288 Heptadecane 223 303 10 Octadecane 236 317 Nonadecane 248 330 1, 1, 1, Trichloroethane 20 74 Trichloroethylene 31 87 ~ 12 ~ ~ ~~ t~Y~
i3~2~3 3. ~ropellants In order to deliver and build the first foam for use ir~ this particular embodiment of the invention, it is preferable to deliver the solvent/surfactant admixture via a ~aseous propeliant. Additionally, it appears that the propellant, which of necessity is itself a solvent, interacts with the solvents used in the invention to cause the necessary action to prornote initial foam formation, collapse and refoaming. Such propellant could be, but need not be, a hydrocarbon, of'from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, such as Inethane, ethane, n-propane, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, or isopentane and mixtures thereof. The propellant may also be selected from halogenated hydrocarbons including, but not limited to flurocarbons, chlorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbons, and mixtures thereof. Still further propellants in~lu~e haloyenate~ alkenes, for e'xample vinyl chloride and vinyl fluoride; and dimethyl ether. Some of these latter examples are ~uickly flammable and may need to be combined with another gas, eg. CC12P2, to bring them into a non-flammable state. These exemplary gases belong generally to the group of colnpounds calle~ liquefiable gases.
However, for this particular embodiment of the invention, the propellant to be used is not restricted to these particular gases. Various compresed tnon-liquefiable) gases which are applicable for use include nitrous oxide, nitroqen, carbon dioxide, and inert, Noble gases, such as helium and neon.
A~though pressure within the dispenser, i.e., can pressure, does not appear to be critical, a preferred range of about 5 to 130 lbs./in , more preferably 10 to 130 lbs./in , and most preEerably 50 to 130 lbs./in . lrhe am~urlt oE ~ropellant is adjusted to take into consideration the effects of added solvent, ~312~3 hornoyeneity of the ingredients, dispenser size, etc. Other exemplary propellants are depicted in M.A. 30hnson, The Aerosol Handboo~, 1st Ed., (Wayne ~. Dorland Co.) (1~72), pages 270, 276-77, 2B2, 321, 324, 329, and 344-45 4. Builders Tne surfactant/solvent admixture of the present invention may also include at least one builder. ^Such a builder would tend to promote the emulsification of the surfactant into the foa~ phase.
10 Examples of such builders include those of alkaline nature (pH
7.0+), such as potassium silicate, commonly sold under the trademark Kasil by PQ Corporation, soda ash (sodium carbonate), and other alkali metal salts of silicates, phosphates, and carbonates. Other builders such as ethylene diamine-tetraacetate 15 (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) an~ organic builders such as the alkali metal salts of sulfosuccinates, succinates, acetates and maleates. The types of builders used are not limited but they should be substantially water soluble or dispersible. Materials which are not soluble may have ~eleterious effect on both 20 dispensins and cleaning properties of the invention. It is for this particular reason that abrasive materials, such as silica sand, perlite and the like are avoided in the invention.-It has been found that the following ranges of thesolvent/aqueous surfactant/propellant admixture may be preferred:
:~3~2~3 0.1% to 10.0~ by weight of (100~) surfactant;*
0.1~ to 70 0% by weight of volatile organic solvent;
1.0% to 30.0% by weight of the propellant;
preferably, 0.0~ to 20.0% by weight of the builder; and the remainder as water.
In further embodiments o~ this invention, 0.5% to 10.0~ of cleaning adjuvants may be added, selected from such adjuvants as dyes, fragrances and antimicrobially active agents, such as the substituted phenols sold by Dow Chemical Company under the 10 trademark Dowicide, and by Monsanto Chemical Company under the trademark santophen, and fabric softeners, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, e.q., such as those sold by Lonza Chemical Company under the trademark 8ardac (these types of quaternary ammonium surfactants apparently also Inay act as ~ermicidal agents), . Dlspenser In yet another embodiment of the inven~ion, which is the subjec~ of this divisional application, a dispenser is provided to deli.ver the fabrlc cleaners. As a means of delivering -the novel composi-tions of this inven-tion, a typical pressurized dispensing means comprises:
~Those skilled in the art know that ~any commercial surfactants, such as anionic surfactants, are typically sold as queous solutions containing certain percentages of active (i.e., 100%) surfactant.
.
13122 ~
a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head, said dispensing means containing an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and said surfactant being foam-orming, said dispensing means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time, and said solvent in said mixture thereafter evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise through said fabric surface.
By referring to the drawings, this dispensing means is most aptly illustrated in action, delivering the composition. Figs.
l,2 and 3 show in sequence (l) the delivery of the composition, which breaks into an initial foam; (2) the collapse of the initial foam into the selected fabric surface; and (3) the formation of the secondary foam after a controlled residence period Although again, it is not precisely understood why the invention performs in the manner shown, it is speculated that the propellant, which is a volatile organic solvent itself, may volatilize, rapidly leaving the foam. This may cause the foam to ~break~ or collapse for reasons of lessened surface tension.
AlternatiVely, it is possible that with the propellant having left, the solvent itself may temporarily act as a ~defoamer.~
Next, the solvent, which may be somewhat less volatile than the propellant, appears to volatilize, causing the secondary foam rise or "blow.~ Reasons oe this secondary foam rise are also speculative.
~12~3 This best mode depiction of the invelltion can be accomplished by adapting many prior art dispensers and by means known to those skilled in the art. For example, prototypical dispensers are disclosed in Monson, U.S. 3,541,581, column 10, lines 55~75, column 11, lines 1-7S and column 12, lines 1-64.
Unlike the materials therein disclosed, namely post-foaming gels, applicant does not require isolation of his compositions from the aerosol delivery systems.
In fact, applicant believes that there is a cooperative interaction between the solvent/sur~actant admixture and the propellants used which result in the unusual first foam/collapse/
second foam characteristics of the invention.
The following EXAMPLE I exemplifies one preferred embodiment of the compositions of this invention:
In~edient Weight %
Sipon ES t75% H20; 25% sodium 4.0 lauryl ether sulfate) KaSil #1 (2otassium silicate) 6.0 Hexane tSolvent) 26.0 Propellant A-70 (hydrocarbon mix)20.0 Water ~.o TOTAL 100.0 Use of this formula embodied in EXAMPLE I proved a fair representative of the first foam forming, collapsing, and second foam blowing admixture of this invention.
~3~22~3 A further example depicting the ranges of the preferred carpet cleaner compositions follows:
Component Ranges Hamposyl (sodium alkyl sarcosinate) 0.0- 3.0%
7s.0% water; 25.0~) Sipon ES (Sodium lauryl ether sulfate) 2.0-12.0%
KaSil ~1 (potassium silicate) 0.0- 8.0%
Hexane (solvent) 1.0-35.0~
A-70 Propellant (hydrocarbon mix) 5.0-20.0%
Water 92.0-22.0%
In the examples 3-48 in TABLE II, combinations of the following preferred ranges of components comprising embodiments of the .invention are set out:
.~ J~JJ'~
13~22~3 TA~LE II
. .
~XAMPLES:
~ HAMPOSYLl KASIL~l A70 PROP %SR5 % SIPON ES2 HEXANE WATER
-3 0.0 2.00.0 10.0 5.0 83.0 -133.23 4 0.0 2.00.0 10.0 20.0 ~8.0 -40.01 0.0 2.00.0 35.0 5.0 58.0 -69.02 6 0.0 ~.00.0 35.0 20.0 43.0 -43,26 7 0.0 2.08.0 10.0 5.0 75.0 49.58 8 0.0 2.08.0 10.0 ~0.0 60.0 31.18 9 0.0 2.08.0 35.0 5.0 50.0 ~0.92 0.0 2.08.0 35.0 20.0 35.0 15.61 11 0.0 1~.00.0 `10.0 5.0 73.0 -52.21 12 0.0 12.00.0 10.0 20.0 58.0 -54.08 13 0.0 ` 12.0 0.0 35.0 5.0 48.0 -3~.56 14 0.0 12.00.0 35.0 20.0 33.~ -39.77 0.0 12.08.0 10.0 5.0 65.0 26.93 16 0.0 12.08.0 10.0 20.0 50.0 7.77 17 0.0 12.08.0 35.0 5.0 40.0 -10.60 18 0.0 12.08.0 35.0 20.0 ~5.0 9.13 19 3.0 2.00.0 10.0 5.0 80.0 ~105.59 2~ 3.0 2.00.0 10.0 20.0 65.0 -165.61 21 3.0 2.00.0 35.0 5.0 55~0 - -116.07 22 3.0 2.00.0 35.0 20.0 ~0.0 -16~.43 23 3.0 2.0~.0 10.0 5.0 72.0 13.02 24 3.0 2.08.0 10.0 20.0 57.0 15.23 3.0 2.08.0~ 35.0 5.0 47.0 69.95 26 3.0 2.08.0 35.0 20.0 32.0 4.54 27 3.0 12.00.0 10.0 5.0 70.0 -91.78 28 3.0 12.00.0 10.0 20.0 55.0 103.21 29 3.0 12.00~0 35.0 5.0 45.0 39.89 - 19 - ~ ~, I ~JJ~)g~
1 3122~3 3.0 12.0 0.0 35.020.0 30.0-80.62 31 3.0 12.0 ~.0 10.0 5.0 62.0-32.65 32 3.0 12.0 8.0 10.020~0 47.028.39 33 3.0 12.0 8.0 35.0 5.0 37.039.21 34 3.Q 12.0 8.0 35.020.0 22.011~35 0.0 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 54.0lg.7~
36 3.0 7.~ 4.0 22.512.5 51.01.14 37 1.5 2.0 4.0 22.512.5 57.530.~9 38 1.5 12.0 4.0 22.512.5 47.5-34.21 39 1.5 7.0 0.0 22.512.5 56~5-101.65 1.5 7.0 8.0 22.512.5 48.5-4.95 41 1.5 7.0 4.0 10.012.5 65.0-40.~6 42 1.5 7.0 4.0 35.012.5 4~.0-16.92 43 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.5 5.0 60.0-2.42 44 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.520.0 45.0-24.~1 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-32.04 46 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-1~.26 47 1.5 7.0 4.0 22.512.5 52.5-~.97 ., 1. Hamposyl is W.R. Grace & Company, Hampshire Chemical Division's trademark for sodium alkyl sarcosinate 2. Sipon ES is Alcolac Chemical Corporation's trademark for sodium lauryl ether sulfate.
3. KaSil is PQ's trademark for potassium silicate, a builder.
4. A-70 propellant is a mixture of three hydrocarbons: isobutane, propane and butane, with an average vapor pressure of 72 psig.
5. SR is % Soil Removal, determined according to the soiling tests in TEST I, below.
- 20 - ~ J~)3 ~3122~3 TEST I
CARPET SOILING AND COMPARATIVE CLEANING METHODOLOGY
A Cleaning Comparison Study .
Swatches of test carpet measuring 15.7cm x 12.6cm were cut from Karastan Monticello "Opalite~ (an off-white, polyester car~et). All were aligned with the nap going from top to bottom.
Three replicates were used for all tests.
Soilin~ and Resoiling Procedure Swatches were placed in a clean 15 centimeter (~cm") x 21.5cm 10 Norton ceramic ball-mill jar with 45 2cm x 2cm balls; 0.2000 ~
.0002 gram (~9~) of a modified Sanders & Lambert soil (see below) was added to the jar. The jar was set on a roller-type tumbler for 15 minutes. The jar's orientation was reversed, and tumbled for an additional 15 minutes. The swatch was rernoved from the 15 jar, and vacuumed in the direction of the nap four passes with a Eureka ~odel S Two-Speed Cordaway vacuum cleaner.
Resoiled swatches were rehumidified in a 31.5 C, 90-95% relative humidity room for two hours. These were then removed, and allowed to re-equilibrate to ambient conditions for approximately one half 20 hour. The swatches were then soiled using the procedure described above.
The performance of WOOLITE (trademark of American Home Products Corp.) and the invention of this application were compared in three different tests, consisting of six swatches each (tllree per treatment). In the first test, unsoiled swatches were treated five times. Another test used carpet soiled once and subsequently yiven five treatments. The third test used carpet sub]ected to five complete cycles o soiliny and cleaning.
Swatches were soiled witll 0.20g of a rnodified Sanders & Lambert 30 soil forrnulation.
; _ ~,~
~3:~2253 Modified Sanders & Lambert Soil Formula~ion Portland Cement 27.7%
Silica, 200 mesh 27.7%
Bandy ~lack Clay 29.3%
5 Decolorizing Carbon 1.5%
Ferric Oxide 0.3%
Stearic Acid 1.5%
Oleic Acid 1.5%
Palm Oil 3.0%
10 Cholesterol 1.0%
Squalene 1.0 Octadecane 1.0 Octadecene 1.0~
Linoleic Acid 2.G%
15 Paraffin Oil 1.5%
100 . 0%
100 grams of soil were prepared for this test. 150 grams of deionized water were added to the mixture. All ingredients were mixed in a Norton ceramic ball mill containing 50 balls for 2 20 hours. The mixture was remoYed from the ball mill and dried overnight. The soil was returned to a clean ball mill, and tumbled again for 2 hours. The soil was ground and sieved in a No. 3-sieve.
Only one aerosol can of either the invention or WOOLITE was used 25 throughout the experiment. After cleaning, the swatches were vacuumed six passes with a Eureka Model S two-speed Cordaway, and then instrumentally graded on a Gardner XL031 colorimeter.
~3~22~3 B. Colorimetric Ana~
Color reflectance data was obtained from all swatches after each treatment and vacuuming. The most important reflectance parameter in this study is the degree of lightnesstL). Readings taken after soiling (Ls) or cleaning (Lw) were compared with that o~ an untreated swatch (Lo). Changes in L-values represent the amount of svil deposited or removed after treatment, and are reported in TABLES II and III as % SOil Removed (S.R.).
Swatches were read on a Gardner XL-31 colorimeter that was 10 connected to a Hewlett-Packard 9815A calculator/printer. The YXZ, large beam was used. Five sequential readings were taken in a 5cm x Scm square in the center of each swatch.
` TEST II
FLAMMABILITY ~ESTS
~lammability may be tested by any one or more of ive representative methods:
1. Flame Projection: An open flame is placed in the middle of a laboratory table. A straight edge rule is centered with respect to tlie flame tip. The composition to be tested is sprayed towards 20 the open flame. Under current laboratory standards, ignition 12 inches from the center of the flame is acceptable. Ignition from 18 inches, however, may indicate unacceptable flammability.
~ 2~ ~7~ ` J /)~J~
~312253 2. Elash Point Determination: Plash point is de~ined as ~he lowest temperature at which the vapors emanating from a combustible substance will i~nite when exposed to a small 1ame.
Among the various methods used are: closed-up, open-cup, tag closed-cup, tag open-cup, and Cleveland open cup methods, all of which are known to practitioners skilled in this art.
3. Closed Drum Test: A 55 gallon drum, or other suitable container, is fitted with a hinged lid. A source of ignition is placed on the bottom floor of the container. The combustible 10 substance is introduced, usually by spraying into the container.
4. Tower Test: A long graduated cylinder with apertures at 1 . _ inch intervals running along its length, is set up. Pieces of masking tape cover reach aperture. Some of the combustible substance to be tested is introduced into the bottom of the 15 cylinder. To test degree of flammability/ the pieces of tape are pulled off the`apertures, beginnin~ from the top, and the uncovered aperture is exposed to a flame to test ignition. The height at which ignition occurs is recorded.
5. Trough Test: The combustible substance is introduced-into 20 a very narrow trough and ignited. If flame burns the length of the trough,, tne substance is deemed 1ammable.
In TABLE III,, below, examples 50-76 show the % soil removal in accordance with the methodology of TEST I and flammability in accordance with TEST II, above.
In this particular series, the "Tower Test" was used to test flammability. Additionally, comparative test results were obtained in these areas or the aerosol carpet cleaner sold under the trademark "WOOLITE~ by American Home Products Corp.(Example 77).
- 2~ -~3~22~
TAELE I I I
Soil Removal and Flammabili~
~
Exarnple KASIL ~1 A-70 PROP. ~SOIL REMVL
~ SIPON ES HEXANE WATER FLAMMABILITY
48 0.06.0 5.0 5.0 84.015.7 3.5 49 0.06.0 5.0 20.0 69.0~0.0 1.5 0.06.0 25.0 5.0 64.0-1.6 1.0 51 0.06.0 25.0 20.0 ~.019.4 0.0 52 0.010.0 5.0 5.0 80.04.4 0.0 53 0.010.0 5.0 20.0 65.0g.8 1.0 5~ 0.010.0 25.0 5.0 60.014.6 1.0 0.010.0 25.0 20.0 45.09.1 2.0 56 4.06.0 5.0 5.0 80.048.8 1.5 57 ~.06.0 5.0 20.0 65.032.3 5.5 58 4.06.0 25.0 5.0 60.043,3 4.5 59 4.06.0 25.0 20.0 45.045.2 7.5 4.010.0 5.0 5.0 76.045.6 A.0 61 4.010.0 5.0 20.0 61.044.9 5.0 62 4.010.0 25.0 5.0 56.057.9 5.0 63 4.010.0 25.0 20.0 410064.2 7.5 64 0.08.0 15.0 12.5 64.513.4 2.5 4.08.0 15.0 12.5 60.548.0 7.5 66 2.06.0 15.0 12.5 64.546.3 5O0 67 2.010.0 15.0 12.5 60.560.6 7.0 68 2.08.0 5.0 12.5 72.552.5 5.0 69 2.08.0 25.0 12.5 52.54~.0 5.5 2.08.0 15.0 5.0 7~.056.7 2.0 71 2.08.0 15.0 20.0 55.052.6 5.0 72 2.08.0 15.0 12.5 62.548.4 5.5 73 2.08.~ 15.0 12.5 62.552.2 6.5 74 2.08.0 15.0 12.5 62.547.0 5.5 1312~3 Table IV below shows in detail numerous examples in which the method of this invention was practiced. In this methodology, formulations as shown in Examples 48-74 of Table IV, were initially applied from aerosol containers onto a strip of Karastan ~Emperor~ Forest Palm carpet. A11 formulations were dispensed in a S minute burst to ensure uniformity in data. TWQ trials were performed for each formulation.
After initial application, time for foam collapse was recorded, and height of the initial and collapsed foam column was 10 recorded additionally, penetration of collapsed foam into the carpet strip was measured.
Then, the start (collapse), and finish (Development o ~ull Blow) of the secondary foam blow was recorded, as well as the edge width and final height of the secondary foam.
The ~controlled residence time phase" alluded to earlier is determined as the difference between the collapse time and the full blow time. The slgnificance of this controlled residence time phase is that this is when the cleaning composition has substantially penetrated below the surface of the carpet, and causes soiling materials adhering to the carpet fibers to become segregated and emulsified. When the secondary foam rise commences, these soiling particles are believed to be carried to the surace of the carpet fibers along with the secondary foam rise. Therefore~ this controlled residence time is particularly 25 significant, and as emplrically determined, should last at least 1 minute, and ranges upward to about 1 hour's time. Preferably, this controlled residence time is from 2-30 minutes, more preerably 2-20 minutes.
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~3~2~3 Cleaniny results obtained within the foregoing examples exceeded conventional aerosol foams and were substantially the same as steam extraction for Sanders-Lambert Test. Compared with a commercially available carpet cleaner, WOOLITE, the formulation of this invention clearly outperformed WOOLITE in cleaning results.
Costs for the method of this invention were substantially less than for other rotary brush or steam extraction cleaning methods as well. Further, as indicated, no special equipment is needed to practice the method of this invention.
Examples of the invehtion wherein diferent solvents are used Gbo~
J are shown in TABLE V, be~ Note that cleaning results are still superior to that for American Home Products Woolite cleaner in direct comparison tests.
2 ~
PREFERRED MET~ D
In the preferred method of practicing this invention, it has been found desirable to form a first, substantially low viscosity foam, by:
Delivering the solvent/surfactant admixture of the present invention via a hydrocarbon or other propellant, and applying said first foam to a soiled carpet surface,.having fibers containing soiling particles;
Collapsing said first foam without abrasion into said fibers and emulsifyinq and segregating said soiling particles during a controlled residence time phase; and Evaporatlng the solvent of the solvent/surfactant admi.xture so-as to blow the emulsified soil and surfactant into a second foam, elevating said soiling particles su-bstanti-ally to the surface of said fibers.
. .
The pressurized delivery of solvent/surfactant to the surface of the carpet fibers forms the emulsive phase necessary to build the first foam.
However, it is not entirely understood why this first foam collapses and penetrakes into the carpet fibers, thereby emulsifying soiling particles within the fibersO It is postulated that within the foam are hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers which form a micelle to keep the solvents (water and organic~ and surfactants emulsified. These hydrophilic/hydrophobic interfaces of the present formulations of the invention apparently break down almost immediately upon being dispensed, causing the collapse of the first foam into the carpet fibers. Unexpectedly, this collayse resulted in thorough penetration of the fibers and promoted emulsi~ication and segregation of soiling particles in the fibers thereby.
Finally, as hereinbefore described, the volatile organic solvent component of the solvent/surfactant admixture volatilizes, causing the admixture to blow into a second foam. This brought about a second, surprising result: the previously emulsified, segregated, soiling particles appeared to have been elevated to substantially the surface of the carpet fibers. After drying, botn the soiling materials and the admixture may c~onveniently be vacuumed up or otherwise removed.
The foregoing examples, embodiments, and descriptions are ~y way of exemplification, and not intended to limit the scope and eyuivalents of the invention. E~uivalent embodiments which would be apparent to the reasonably skilled practitioner are encompassed withi-n the scope of this--invention.-- ~or example~ other fabrics may be eleaned using the method of this invention. The method may be modified to include a procedure for coatiny ~ahrics with waterproof or dirt resistant coatings.
Claims
THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION IN WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OR
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A dispensing means which comprises:
a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head;
said dispensing means containing an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and said surfactant being foam-forming;
said dispensing means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time;
said solvent in said mixture thereafter evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise through said fabric surface;
and said surfactant present in an amount of about 0.1% to 30.0% by weight; said solvent present in an amount of about 0.5%
to 30% by weight; and said propellant present in an amount of about 1.0% to 30.0% by weight.
2. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said solvent is selected from the group consisting essentially of saturated, substituted, or halogenated alkane of 1 to 12 carbon atoms, and mixtures thereof.
3. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said surfactant is selected from the group consisting essentially of anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof.
4. The dispensing means of claim 3 wherein said surfactant is an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting essentially of alkali metal salts of (a) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sulfates;
(b) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sulfonates;
(c) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sarcosinates; and mixtures thereof.
5. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said propellant is a liquefiable or compressed gas propellant.
6. The dispensing means of claim 5 wherein said propellant is a compressible propellant selected from the group of saturated hydrocarbons consisting of methane, ethane, iso-propane, n-propane, iso-butane, n-butane, pentane, hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, decane, dodecane, and mixtures thereof.
7. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said solvent/surfactant admixture includes about 0.0% to 20.0% by weight of a builder selected from the group consisting essentially of alkali metal salts of silicates, phosphates, and carbonates.
8. The dispensing means of claim 7 wherein in addition to said surfactant/solvent admixture, said propellant and said builder, the remainder comprises water.
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A dispensing means which comprises:
a closed container, propellant and solvent/surfactant admixture-containing chamber and dispensing head;
said dispensing means containing an aqueous solvent/surfactant admixture, said solvent having a consistent evaporation rate in ambient air and said surfactant being foam-forming;
said dispensing means delivering under pressure said solvent/surfactant admixture onto a fabric surface, whereupon said solvent/surfactant admixture forms an initial foam, then collapses without abrasion during a controlled residence time;
said solvent in said mixture thereafter evaporating, causing a second foam to form and rise through said fabric surface;
and said surfactant present in an amount of about 0.1% to 30.0% by weight; said solvent present in an amount of about 0.5%
to 30% by weight; and said propellant present in an amount of about 1.0% to 30.0% by weight.
2. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said solvent is selected from the group consisting essentially of saturated, substituted, or halogenated alkane of 1 to 12 carbon atoms, and mixtures thereof.
3. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said surfactant is selected from the group consisting essentially of anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof.
4. The dispensing means of claim 3 wherein said surfactant is an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting essentially of alkali metal salts of (a) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sulfates;
(b) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sulfonates;
(c) alkyl, aryl, or alkylaryl sarcosinates; and mixtures thereof.
5. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said propellant is a liquefiable or compressed gas propellant.
6. The dispensing means of claim 5 wherein said propellant is a compressible propellant selected from the group of saturated hydrocarbons consisting of methane, ethane, iso-propane, n-propane, iso-butane, n-butane, pentane, hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, decane, dodecane, and mixtures thereof.
7. The dispensing means of claim 1 wherein said solvent/surfactant admixture includes about 0.0% to 20.0% by weight of a builder selected from the group consisting essentially of alkali metal salts of silicates, phosphates, and carbonates.
8. The dispensing means of claim 7 wherein in addition to said surfactant/solvent admixture, said propellant and said builder, the remainder comprises water.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US06/682,029 US4652389A (en) | 1984-12-14 | 1984-12-14 | Carpet cleaner |
| US06/062,029 | 1984-12-14 | ||
| CA000497389A CA1259880A (en) | 1984-12-14 | 1985-12-11 | Carpet cleaner |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000497389A Division CA1259880A (en) | 1984-12-14 | 1985-12-11 | Carpet cleaner |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1312253C true CA1312253C (en) | 1993-01-05 |
Family
ID=25670862
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000604297A Expired - Fee Related CA1312253C (en) | 1984-12-14 | 1989-06-28 | Dispenser for carpet cleaner |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1312253C (en) |
-
1989
- 1989-06-28 CA CA000604297A patent/CA1312253C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |