EP1389231A1 - Bio-active de-inking or cleaning foam - Google Patents
Bio-active de-inking or cleaning foamInfo
- Publication number
- EP1389231A1 EP1389231A1 EP02732894A EP02732894A EP1389231A1 EP 1389231 A1 EP1389231 A1 EP 1389231A1 EP 02732894 A EP02732894 A EP 02732894A EP 02732894 A EP02732894 A EP 02732894A EP 1389231 A1 EP1389231 A1 EP 1389231A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- aqueous liquid
- product according
- product
- foam
- foamable aqueous
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 title claims description 60
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims description 11
- 230000000975 bioactive effect Effects 0.000 title description 5
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 51
- 102000004190 Enzymes Human genes 0.000 claims abstract description 31
- 108090000790 Enzymes Proteins 0.000 claims abstract description 31
- 239000004094 surface-active agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 239000004034 viscosity adjusting agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000012263 liquid product Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000003755 preservative agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 230000002335 preservative effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000003960 organic solvent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 claims abstract 2
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 claims description 40
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 34
- 229940088598 enzyme Drugs 0.000 claims description 30
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 claims description 20
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 claims description 15
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 claims description 12
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000004604 Blowing Agent Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 108090001060 Lipase Proteins 0.000 claims description 8
- 102000004882 Lipase Human genes 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000012669 liquid formulation Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- 108090000371 Esterases Proteins 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000004367 Lipase Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 235000014113 dietary fatty acids Nutrition 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000000194 fatty acid Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 229930195729 fatty acid Natural products 0.000 claims description 7
- 235000019421 lipase Nutrition 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000003925 fat Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 150000004665 fatty acids Chemical class 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004519 grease Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000002736 nonionic surfactant Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- -1 polyoxyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000003380 propellant Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004365 Protease Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- DBMJMQXJHONAFJ-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium laurylsulphate Chemical compound [Na+].CCCCCCCCCCCCOS([O-])(=O)=O DBMJMQXJHONAFJ-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000005273 aeration Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000003945 anionic surfactant Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 150000002632 lipids Chemical class 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920003171 Poly (ethylene oxide) Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000021355 Stearic acid Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- GSEJCLTVZPLZKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Triethanolamine Chemical group OCCN(CCO)CCO GSEJCLTVZPLZKY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- QIQXTHQIDYTFRH-UHFFFAOYSA-N octadecanoic acid Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC(O)=O QIQXTHQIDYTFRH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- OQCDKBAXFALNLD-UHFFFAOYSA-N octadecanoic acid Natural products CCCCCCCC(C)CCCCCCCCC(O)=O OQCDKBAXFALNLD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000003973 paint Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008117 stearic acid Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000230 xanthan gum Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000010493 xanthan gum Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001285 xanthan gum Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229940082509 xanthan gum Drugs 0.000 claims description 3
- 102000016938 Catalase Human genes 0.000 claims description 2
- 108010053835 Catalase Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 108010059892 Cellulase Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 108090000526 Papain Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 108091005804 Peptidases Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 102000003992 Peroxidases Human genes 0.000 claims description 2
- 108090000608 Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 102000004160 Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases Human genes 0.000 claims description 2
- 102100037486 Reverse transcriptase/ribonuclease H Human genes 0.000 claims description 2
- 108010055297 Sterol Esterase Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 102000000019 Sterol Esterase Human genes 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000003242 anti bacterial agent Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000003963 antioxidant agent Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000003078 antioxidant effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000872 buffer Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229940106157 cellulase Drugs 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000001050 lubricating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000003472 neutralizing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000003305 oil spill Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011368 organic material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000003002 pH adjusting agent Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229940055729 papain Drugs 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000019834 papain Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 108040007629 peroxidase activity proteins Proteins 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000019419 proteases Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- KSAVQLQVUXSOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium lauroyl sarcosinate Chemical compound [Na+].CCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)N(C)CC([O-])=O KSAVQLQVUXSOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000019333 sodium laurylsulphate Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000976 ink Substances 0.000 description 22
- 235000019198 oils Nutrition 0.000 description 19
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 12
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 12
- 239000002585 base Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000008158 vegetable oil Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000012634 fragment Substances 0.000 description 5
- 235000015112 vegetable and seed oil Nutrition 0.000 description 5
- ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propane Chemical compound CCC ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000012736 aqueous medium Substances 0.000 description 4
- 235000019197 fats Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 4
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 4
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000002834 transmittance Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000001273 butane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000012459 cleaning agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229940110456 cocoa butter Drugs 0.000 description 2
- 235000019868 cocoa butter Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000000326 densiometry Methods 0.000 description 2
- MOTZDAYCYVMXPC-UHFFFAOYSA-N dodecyl hydrogen sulfate Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCCOS(O)(=O)=O MOTZDAYCYVMXPC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000002255 enzymatic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000002474 experimental method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 125000005313 fatty acid group Chemical group 0.000 description 2
- 238000005187 foaming Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-butane Chemical compound CCCC IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-pentane Natural products CCCCC OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000001294 propane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008685 targeting Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000012855 volatile organic compound Substances 0.000 description 2
- 240000008791 Antiaris toxicaria Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001251094 Formica Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920000877 Melamine resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000001464 adherent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010775 animal oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 125000000129 anionic group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004071 biological effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000001720 carbohydrates Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000004925 denaturation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000036425 denaturation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006185 dispersion Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012153 distilled water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000975 dye Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007515 enzymatic degradation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000002148 esters Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000009408 flooring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010191 image analysis Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002085 irritant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000021 irritant Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 210000004185 liver Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N melamine Chemical compound NC1=NC(N)=NC(N)=N1 JDSHMPZPIAZGSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002480 mineral oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000252 nontoxic Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000003000 nontoxic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000014593 oils and fats Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000005416 organic matter Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000000496 pancreas Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000010451 perlite Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000019362 perlite Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 102000004169 proteins and genes Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 108090000623 proteins and genes Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 230000000241 respiratory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000000344 soap Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 241000894007 species Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000015096 spirit Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007480 spreading Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003019 stabilising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003756 stirring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009974 thixotropic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000013311 vegetables Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 1
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
- C11D3/0005—Other compounding ingredients characterised by their effect
- C11D3/0094—High foaming compositions
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D1/00—Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent
- C11D1/66—Non-ionic compounds
- C11D1/83—Mixtures of non-ionic with anionic compounds
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
- C11D3/16—Organic compounds
- C11D3/20—Organic compounds containing oxygen
- C11D3/2075—Carboxylic acids-salts thereof
- C11D3/2079—Monocarboxylic acids-salts thereof
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
- C11D3/16—Organic compounds
- C11D3/38—Products with no well-defined composition, e.g. natural products
- C11D3/386—Preparations containing enzymes, e.g. protease or amylase
- C11D3/38618—Protease or amylase in liquid compositions only
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
- C11D3/48—Medical, disinfecting agents, disinfecting, antibacterial, germicidal or antimicrobial compositions
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D1/00—Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent
- C11D1/02—Anionic compounds
- C11D1/04—Carboxylic acids or salts thereof
- C11D1/10—Amino carboxylic acids; Imino carboxylic acids; Fatty acid condensates thereof
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D1/00—Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent
- C11D1/02—Anionic compounds
- C11D1/12—Sulfonic acids or sulfuric acid esters; Salts thereof
- C11D1/14—Sulfonic acids or sulfuric acid esters; Salts thereof derived from aliphatic hydrocarbons or mono-alcohols
- C11D1/146—Sulfuric acid esters
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
- C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
- C11D1/00—Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent
- C11D1/66—Non-ionic compounds
- C11D1/72—Ethers of polyoxyalkylene glycols
-
- C11D2111/42—
Definitions
- the invention relates to bio-active foams, formulations, manufacture thereof and uses therefor.
- the foams may be used in cleaning and/or removing spills of inks, dyes, organic matter such as vegetable and/or animal oils and fats, hydrocarbons and paints in the printing, graphics and manufacturing industries and in domestic and/or industrial food preparation.
- the invention provides a bio-active foam comprising at least one enzyme so as to assist in the breakdown of substrates such as lipids, oils, fats and/or grease.
- a foamable aqueous liquid containing a surfactant and an enzyme.
- a foamable aqueous liquid product comprising a stabilising agent, a surfactant, optionally a viscosity modifier, an enzyme and optionally a preservative.
- the foamable aqueous liquid product does not have to, and preferably does not, contain any organic solvents.
- the present invention is concerned with the use of an aqueous liquid-based foam carrier for the carriage of a bio-active enzyme.
- the foam advantageously acts to hold onto the substrate where the foam is applied thereby improving efficiency of targeting.
- the foam provides a gas/liquid environment above the substrate surface so as to enhance the rate of enzymatic degradation of specific organic species on the substrate.
- the aqueous liquid component is water and more preferably distilled water. The water acts to solubilise/disperse the various components of the foamable liquid.
- the stabilising agent is preferably a fatty acid.
- Suitable examples of fatty acids include stearic acid and/or sodium dodecyl sulphate (syn. lauryl sulphate).
- the function of the stabilising agent in the foamable aqueous liquid is to stabilise the foam once it has been formed with the help of the surfactant component.
- Those products suitable for use as a fatty acid must also contain a base so as to neutralise the fatty acid(s) whereby salts/soaps are formed.
- the base is triethanolamine or another triolkanolamine.
- the product may optionally contain an acid, base or buffer as a pH modifier.
- the surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant which may optionally include an anionic surfactant; more preferably the non-ionic surfactant is a polyoxyethylene such as BrijTM, available in the UK from Aldrich Chemical Company.
- Suitable surfactants which are anionic for example includes sodium n-dodecyl sulphate or lauroylsarcosine sodium salt.
- Anionic surfactants are known to remove carbohydrate and protein type soils, whereas non-ionic surfactants are especially useful in removing greasy and oily food soils. Therefore, one embodiment of the invention is a mixture of surfactants to clean and remove complex soil types found on food preparation work surfaces and kitchen utensils.
- the surfactant not only aids in the dissolution or dispersion of the soil but also aids in the initial foaming of the aqueous liquid and is useful in stabilising the foam once it has formed.
- the viscosity modifier when present, is a gum or the like, such as xanthan gum and is present in preferred embodiments so as to thicken the foamable liquid and thus retard drainage from the formed foam.
- the preservative when present, is an antioxidant and/or an antibacterial agent and also acts to retard degradation of fats and other organic materials.
- the foamable aqueous liquid product comprises at least one enzyme preferably selected from the group consisting of catalase, cellulase, cholesterol esterase, esterase, lipase, papain, peroxidase, phosphatase and protease. It will be appreciated that where the foamable aqueous liquid is to be used to remove lipid or ester films from solid substrates or surfaces, Upases and esterases enzymes are of particular utility.
- the foam is preferably produced by aeration and more preferably by a suitable a propellant or blowing agent, such as a butane/propane mix, for example, A46 hydrocarbon.
- a suitable a propellant or blowing agent such as a butane/propane mix, for example, A46 hydrocarbon.
- the foam Once the foam is deposited onto the spill/oil film, it begins to undergo gravitational separation.
- the aqueous liquid, enzyme(s) and surfactant component parts of the foam drain towards and onto the surface of the spill/oil film.
- the aqueous medium is unable to penetrate through the film to separate it from the underlying solid surface. It is therefore believed thought that due to the presence and biological activity of the enzymes in the aqueous liquid the enzymatic action starts to "thin" the spill/oil film at the interface, allowing the aqueous liquid to penetrate the oil film and separate it from the underlying solid surface. The process is assisted by the presence of surfactants. As a consequence of the enzymatic action, the film can be lifted from the solid surface in small "crazy paving" type fragments.
- the film fragments Once the film fragments are separated from the solid substrate they begin to float up (oil being lighter than water) through the aqueous medium and to some degree (if they are small enough) through the lamellae of the foam, so that they are trapped at the gas/liquid interface.
- the foam is thus believed to act advantageously in several ways: i) as a targeting aid; ii) as a reservoir for the enzyme(s) and surfactant; iii) as a controlled means of dispensing enzyme and surfactant to the oil film surface and; iv) as a trap for the released oil film fragments.
- the foamable aqueous liquid product is contained within and dispensed from a pressurised container or canister.
- a pressurised container or canister may be reusable and capable of being re- ⁇ ressurised.
- the foamable aqueous liquid may be contained within a tank storage vessel and piped/dispensed under pressure from a directing nozzle to the area/ apparatus in need of cleaning.
- the viscosity of the foamable aqeuous liquid is desirably selected so that the liquid is able to drain from the lamellae of the foamed liquid in a slow controlled manner. If the viscosity is low then the rate of drainage (gravitational separation) will be fast and the foam will collapse quickly.
- the foamable aqueous liquid has a viscosity in the range 2 to 10 centipoise.
- the foam is achieved by pressurising the aqueous liquid with a liquified "blowing agent" in a canister.
- a liquified "blowing agent” in a canister.
- the liquid blowing agent becomes dissolved in the foam liquid and expands as it gassifies.
- the blowing agent is uniformly mixed/dispersed with the foam liquid so that bubbles of relatively uniform size are produced from the foamable liquid ideally resulting in a formed foam with a bubble size within a specific size range in order to effect stability of the formed product. If there are a wide range of bubble diameters within the foam this can lead to instability and rapid foam collapse.
- the bubble size is desirably selected to be quite small e.g.
- the formed foam has bubbles of diameter within the range of 100-1000 ⁇ m (for example 100-500 ⁇ m, e.g. about 200 ⁇ m) and more preferably the standard deviation is within the range + 10-30% and more preferably still ⁇ 20%.
- a formulation comprising about 80 to 90 wt.% of an aqueous medium, about 5 to 15 wt.% of a stabilising agent, about 2 to 5wt.% of a base, about 1 to 5 wt.% of a surfactant, about 0.05 to 0.5 wt.% of a viscosity modifier, an enzyme in the range of 0.1 to 1.0 wt.%, and optionally about 0.01 to 0.05 wt.% of a preservative, the formulated product being in the form of a foamable liquid.
- the formulation may contain up to 5 wt.%, preferably up to 3 wt.% and more preferably up to 1 wt.%, of other additives or components. The percentages of all components add up to 100%.
- the foam is formed by aeration with a propellant/blowing agent, such as foam 2 to 5 wt.% of a butane/propane mix (e.g. A46 hydrocarbon).
- a propellant/blowing agent such as foam 2 to 5 wt.% of a butane/propane mix (e.g. A46 hydrocarbon).
- the preferred concentration of enzyme within the formulation varies between 0.1 and 1.0% by weight and its selection is dependent on a user's requirements.
- the invention therefore includes a liquid having the characteristics of a foamable liquid obtained by the above method.
- steps (i) to (v) may be performed sequentially as steps (i) to (v), simultaneously or in a variety of combinations either separately or in combination, the sequences of which is not intended to limit the scope of the method.
- the resulting mixture when the resulting mixture is completed, it is provided in a container from where it may be dispensed under pressure.
- the foamable liquid is aerated in order to form the foam and that aeration may be by agitation or by passing an appropriate blowing agent/propellant therethrough, preferably under pressure.
- a foamable liquid as hereinbefore described for use as a cleaning product in the printing and graphic arts industries.
- the foamable liquid of the present invention is of particular use where it can be used to "wash-up” i.e. clean print machine rollers and to clean small scale spill residues of oil-based and quick-set inks in printing works.
- the foamable liquid of the present invention does not have to contain any volatile organic solvents and therefore may be safe for use in the workplace within the terms of the European Union Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Directive and the Environmental Protection Agency and OSHA regulations in the United States.
- VOC European Union Volatile Organic Compounds
- the foam clean up system advantageously constitutes a completely solvent-free printing system.
- a foamable liquid as herein before described for use in the food preparation and manufacturing industries.
- the foamable liquid and formed foam are non-toxic and non- hazardous when in use.
- the foam may also be used as an industrial and/or domestic cleaning agent in the manufacture, retail and preparation of foods as a de-greasing agent for surfaces such as, for example, counters, floors and walls in addition to use as a cleaning agent in conventional and microwave ovens.
- the foams are of particular use in de- greasing/removing oil films from food preparation equipment and in the removal of solid oil residues, at room temperature from worktops and food preparation surfaces.
- a foamable liquid as herein before described for use in removing lubricating and diesel oil-spill residues, grease residues and non-dried, oil-based paint residues after small scale spills.
- the foams are of particular use in removing such spill/residues from flat and porous surfaces.
- the viscosity modifier (when used) is dispersed in the aqueous liquid under action of mild heat.
- the surfactant may be added at the same time or after the viscosity modifier has dispersed.
- the surfactant if solid, is allowed to melt and the stabilising agent and base added to the mixture with stirring.
- the enzyme(s) may be added and optionally the preservative may be included in the mixture.
- the mixture can then be dispensed into appropriate containers for subsequent use.
- Xanthan gum (1.2 g) is dispersed completely in water (845 ml) by mixing vigorously. The mixture is then heated to a temperature of about 60°C. Next, Brij 35TM (21.5 g) is added and mixed until completely melted. Subsequently, stearic acid (65 g) is added and mixed until it has completely dissolved. The mixture is then warmed to about 75°C and triethanolamine (37 ml) poured in and mixed. Then lauryl sulphate (29g) is added for about 0.5h until all the components have combined thoroughly. The mixture is cooled to about 30°C and BHT (0.2 g) is added. The enzyme lipase (0.5 wt. %) derived from porcine pancreas is then added and entire mixture is mixed well to dissolve the enzyme. During the preparation, mixing is carried out at a low speed in order to minimize foaming.
- the final mixture is cooled to 20°C and dispensed into appropriate vessels/cans.
- a blowing agent is used (A46 hydrocarbon at 3.2 wt.%) to act as a propellant.
- the foamable liquid preparation is contained and dispensed in pressurised canisters or alternatively dispensed into larger refiUable re-pressurisable canisters.
- the foamable liquid is contained within a tank and piped under pressure to dispensing nozzles on, for example, a large printing machine.
- Example 2 The composition of Example 2 was prepared in the same way as Example 1 but the enzyme was an esterase (0.5 wt. %), derived from porcine liver.
- lipase For the removal of thin vegetable oil films, the addition of 0.5% by weight lipase is more efficient in terms of speed of removal and percentage removal of the film, than 0.5%) by weight esterase.
- esterase does have value in specific applications (eg. certain mineral oils) it is envisaged that lipase will be adopted as a standard enzyme for the application of the foam to most commercial-scale cleaning applications.
- ink film was applied to the rough sides of frosted microslides by spreading a thixotropic ink onto its surface. The ink was spread onto the slide so that the fissures on the rough surface filled up with the ink and produced an even layer was produced . The thickness of the ink layer was approximately 20 ⁇ m. Experiments were performed within a 25 by 12.5 cm square polypropylene box. Ink coated slides were supported so that they rested approximately 25 mm above the base of the box. In this way intimate contact with the foam was achieved whilst avoiding contact with the solution in the bottom of the box which results from drainage from the foam.
- the video camera was connected to a Joyce/Loebel Magiscan image analyser to perform the densitometry measurement.
- the results are tabulated below. Values are given as transmittance so that black i.e. no transmittance would have a value of 0 whereas white i.e. complete transmittance would have a value of 100. Thus, the higher the densitometer transmittance value the more effective the cleaning.
- Figure 1 B a control microslide ( Figure 1 B) covered with an ink film which received no treatment.
- Figure 1 A illustrates an ink film coated microslide to which the foam formulation of Example 1 without the presence of an enzyme was applied
- Figure 1C illustrates an ink film coated microslide to which the foam formulation of Example 1 including an enzyme ( 0.1% lipase) has been applied.
- Example 4 The results demonstrate that addition of the enzyme to the foam formulation greatly improves the ability and efficacy of the foam to lift ink spills compared to foam without an enzyme. In addition, following treatment with Example 1 foam with enzyme the residual ink film on the microslide was much "looser” and more amenable to being washed off in a water stream.
- Example 4 Following treatment with Example 1 foam with enzyme the residual ink film on the microslide was much "looser” and more amenable to being washed off in a water stream.
- the foamable liquid formulation incorporating 0.5% lipase and contained in a 400ml. pressurised canister has been tested in our kitchens and in large scale food preparation areas.
- the foam has been successfully used to remove both liquid and solid (crystalline) oil/grease films at room temperature (RT).
- the substrates tested included: vinyl flooring; stainless steel worktops/food preparation surfaces; melamine (Formica) worktops/food preparation surfaces; glass oven doors;
- the foam was deposited directly from the 400ml. pressurised canister and onto the surface of the residue. In some cases, the surface was vertical (eg. oven doors) and the foam had sufficiently high cohesive properties to remain on the surface without any slippage.
- the foam was left for about 4min. then gently removed/swept from the substrate using a flat straight edge such as a soft plastic flat-edge spatula or rubber flat- edged 'squeegee'. It was unnecessary to apply undue pressure to the spatula or
Abstract
A foamable aqueous liquid product comprising an aqueous liquid and a stabilising agent, a surfactant, optionally a viscosity modifier, an enzyme and optionally a preservative, which is void of organic solvent and having particular utility in the printing and graphic arts industries.
Description
BIO-ACTIVE DE-INKING OR CLEANING FOAM
The invention relates to bio-active foams, formulations, manufacture thereof and uses therefor. The foams may be used in cleaning and/or removing spills of inks, dyes, organic matter such as vegetable and/or animal oils and fats, hydrocarbons and paints in the printing, graphics and manufacturing industries and in domestic and/or industrial food preparation.
Background to the Invention
Small volume ink spills (for example < 5 litres) in printing works or graphic art studios are typically cleaned up with a conventional adsorbant such as sawdust or Perlite ™ a trade mark and product available in the UK from Zetmeelbedrijven de Bijenkorf BN (The Netherlands). However, the residues which persist require further treatment so as to remove them. Typically, the residues are mobilised either with an organic solvent such as white spirits or with vegetable oils. The drawbacks in using an organic solvent is that it can be a dermatological and/or respiratory irritant, moreover the solvent vapours given off can be harmful and create a potential fire risk in a work environment. In the instance of using a vegetable oil, once it has been applied to the residue it often produces a slippery surface and therefore creates a potential workplace hazard. A further problem with using organic solvents and/or oils as ink clean up products is that the ink is not completely mobilised where the surface to be cleaned is microporous (e.g. concrete) so typically clean up products only serve to drive the ink further into the surface.
Statement of the Invention
In its broadest aspect, the invention provides a bio-active foam comprising at least one enzyme so as to assist in the breakdown of substrates such as lipids, oils, fats and/or grease.
According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a foamable aqueous liquid containing a surfactant and an enzyme.
According to a yet rfurther aspect of the invention, there is provided a foamable aqueous liquid product comprising a stabilising agent, a surfactant, optionally a viscosity modifier, an enzyme and optionally a preservative. The foamable aqueous liquid product does not have to, and preferably does not, contain any organic solvents.
Detailed Description of the Invention
The present invention is concerned with the use of an aqueous liquid-based foam carrier for the carriage of a bio-active enzyme. The foam advantageously acts to hold onto the substrate where the foam is applied thereby improving efficiency of targeting. In addition, the foam provides a gas/liquid environment above the substrate surface so as to enhance the rate of enzymatic degradation of specific organic species on the substrate. Preferably, the aqueous liquid component is water and more preferably distilled water. The water acts to solubilise/disperse the various components of the foamable liquid.
The stabilising agent is preferably a fatty acid. Suitable examples of fatty acids include stearic acid and/or sodium dodecyl sulphate (syn. lauryl sulphate). The function of the stabilising agent in the foamable aqueous liquid is to stabilise the foam once it has been formed with the help of the surfactant component. Those products suitable for use as a fatty acid must also contain a base so as to neutralise the fatty acid(s) whereby salts/soaps are formed. Preferably, the base is triethanolamine or another triolkanolamine. Irrespective of whether the stabilizing agent is a fatty acid, the product may optionally contain an acid, base or buffer as a pH modifier.
Preferably, the surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant which may optionally include an anionic surfactant; more preferably the non-ionic surfactant is a polyoxyethylene such as Brij™, available in the UK from Aldrich Chemical Company. Suitable surfactants which are anionic, for example includes sodium n-dodecyl sulphate or lauroylsarcosine sodium salt. Anionic surfactants are known to remove carbohydrate and protein type soils, whereas non-ionic surfactants are especially useful in removing greasy and oily food soils. Therefore, one embodiment of the invention is a mixture of surfactants to clean and remove complex soil types found on food preparation work surfaces and kitchen utensils. The surfactant not only aids in the dissolution or dispersion of the soil but also aids in the initial foaming of the aqueous liquid and is useful in stabilising the foam once it has formed.
Preferably, the viscosity modifier, when present, is a gum or the like, such as xanthan gum and is present in preferred embodiments so as to thicken the foamable liquid and thus retard drainage from the formed foam.
Preferably, the preservative, when present, is an antioxidant and/or an antibacterial agent and also acts to retard degradation of fats and other organic materials.
The foamable aqueous liquid product comprises at least one enzyme preferably selected from the group consisting of catalase, cellulase, cholesterol esterase, esterase, lipase, papain, peroxidase, phosphatase and protease. It will be appreciated that where the foamable aqueous liquid is to be used to remove lipid or ester films from solid substrates or surfaces, Upases and esterases enzymes are of particular utility.
The foam is preferably produced by aeration and more preferably by a suitable a propellant or blowing agent, such as a butane/propane mix, for example, A46 hydrocarbon.
In the case of oil-based film in contact with a solid (often porous) substrate, while not wishing to be bound by theory, the mode of action of the foam in removing the lipid layer is believed to be as described in the following paragraphs:
Once the foam is deposited onto the spill/oil film, it begins to undergo gravitational separation. The aqueous liquid, enzyme(s) and surfactant component parts of the foam drain towards and onto the surface of the spill/oil film. However, because the film is hydrophobic, the aqueous medium is unable to penetrate through the film to separate it from the underlying solid surface. It is therefore believed thought that due to the presence and biological activity of the enzymes in the aqueous liquid the enzymatic action starts to "thin" the spill/oil film at the interface, allowing the aqueous liquid to penetrate the oil film and separate it from the underlying solid surface. The process is assisted by the presence of surfactants. As a consequence of the enzymatic action, the film can be lifted from the solid surface in small "crazy paving" type fragments.
Once the film fragments are separated from the solid substrate they begin to float up (oil being lighter than water) through the aqueous medium and to some degree (if they are small enough) through the lamellae of the foam, so that they are trapped at the gas/liquid interface. The foam is thus believed to act advantageously in several ways: i) as a targeting aid; ii) as a reservoir for the enzyme(s) and surfactant; iii) as a controlled means of dispensing enzyme and surfactant to the oil film surface and; iv) as a trap for the released oil film fragments.
Preferably, the foamable aqueous liquid product is contained within and dispensed from a pressurised container or canister. These containers/canisters may be reusable and capable of being re-φressurised. Alternatively, in the instance of providing a fixed installation, the foamable aqueous liquid may be contained within a tank storage vessel and piped/dispensed under pressure from a directing nozzle to the area/ apparatus in need of cleaning.
The viscosity of the foamable aqeuous liquid is desirably selected so that the liquid is able to drain from the lamellae of the foamed liquid in a slow controlled manner. If the viscosity is low then the rate of drainage (gravitational separation) will be fast and the foam will collapse quickly. On the other hand, if the viscosity is high, then the rate at which the enzyme drains onto the oil film will be slow and the speed at which the oil film fragments rise through the liquid to the foam will also be slow. Preferably, the foamable aqueous liquid has a viscosity in the range 2 to 10 centipoise.
Generation of the foam is achieved by pressurising the aqueous liquid with a liquified "blowing agent" in a canister. When the pressure is released via a nozzle, the liquid blowing agent becomes dissolved in the foam liquid and expands as it gassifies. Ideally, the blowing agent is uniformly mixed/dispersed with the foam liquid so that bubbles of relatively uniform size are produced from the foamable liquid ideally resulting in a formed foam with a bubble size within a specific size range in order to effect stability of the formed product. If there are a wide range of bubble diameters within the foam this can lead to instability and rapid foam collapse. The bubble size is desirably selected to be quite small e.g. 200 μm so as to effect efficient "trapping" of oil film fragments. Preferably, the formed foam has bubbles of diameter within the range of 100-1000 μm (for example 100-500 μm, e.g. about 200 μm) and more preferably the standard deviation is within the range + 10-30% and more preferably still ± 20%.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a formulation comprising about 80 to 90 wt.% of an aqueous medium, about 5 to 15 wt.% of a stabilising agent, about 2 to 5wt.% of a base, about 1 to 5 wt.% of a surfactant, about 0.05 to 0.5 wt.% of a viscosity modifier, an enzyme in the range of 0.1 to 1.0 wt.%, and optionally about 0.01 to 0.05 wt.% of a preservative, the formulated product being in the form of a foamable liquid. The formulation may contain up to 5 wt.%, preferably up to 3 wt.% and more preferably up to 1 wt.%, of other additives or components. The percentages of all components add up to 100%.
Preferably, the foam is formed by aeration with a propellant/blowing agent, such as foam 2 to 5 wt.% of a butane/propane mix (e.g. A46 hydrocarbon). Typically, the preferred concentration of enzyme within the formulation varies between 0.1 and 1.0% by weight and its selection is dependent on a user's requirements.
According to a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided a liquid having foam-forming characteristics obtainable by:
(i) dispersing a viscosity modifier in an aqueous medium; (ii) adding a surfactant and a stabilising agent to the mixture;
(iii) adding a neutralising agent and optionally adding a lrurther stabilising agent to the mixture; (iv) adding a preservative to the mixture and; (v) adding at least one enzyme to the mixture.
The invention therefore includes a liquid having the characteristics of a foamable liquid obtained by the above method.
Preferably, the above mentioned steps may be performed sequentially as steps (i) to (v), simultaneously or in a variety of combinations either separately or in combination, the sequences of which is not intended to limit the scope of the method.
Preferably, when the resulting mixture is completed, it is provided in a container from where it may be dispensed under pressure. It will be appreciated that the foamable liquid is aerated in order to form the foam and that aeration may be by agitation or by passing an appropriate blowing agent/propellant therethrough, preferably under pressure.
According to a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided use of a foamable liquid as hereinbefore described for use as a cleaning product in the printing and graphic arts industries.
The foamable liquid of the present invention is of particular use where it can be used to "wash-up" i.e. clean print machine rollers and to clean small scale spill residues of oil-based and quick-set inks in printing works. It will be appreciated from the foregoing that the foamable liquid of the present invention does not have to contain any volatile organic solvents and therefore may be safe for use in the workplace within the terms of the European Union Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Directive and the Environmental Protection Agency and OSHA regulations in the United States. Indeed, if used in conjunction with UV polymerisable inks, the foam clean up system advantageously constitutes a completely solvent-free printing system.
According to a yet ftirther aspect of the invention there is provided use of a foamable liquid as herein before described for use in the food preparation and manufacturing industries. Preferably, the foamable liquid and formed foam are non-toxic and non- hazardous when in use.
The foam may also be used as an industrial and/or domestic cleaning agent in the manufacture, retail and preparation of foods as a de-greasing agent for surfaces such as, for example, counters, floors and walls in addition to use as a cleaning agent in conventional and microwave ovens. The foams are of particular use in de- greasing/removing oil films from food preparation equipment and in the removal of solid oil residues, at room temperature from worktops and food preparation surfaces.
According to a yet further aspect of the invention there is provided use of a foamable liquid as herein before described for use in removing lubricating and diesel oil-spill residues, grease residues and non-dried, oil-based paint residues after small scale spills. The foams are of particular use in removing such spill/residues from flat and porous surfaces.
Typically, in preparing the foamable liquid of the present invention, the viscosity modifier (when used) is dispersed in the aqueous liquid under action of mild heat.
The surfactant may be added at the same time or after the viscosity modifier has dispersed. The surfactant, if solid, is allowed to melt and the stabilising agent and base added to the mixture with stirring. When the mixture has cooled to a temperature below which denaturation of the particular enzymes employed and can occur, e.g. below 37°C and especially about 30°C or below, the enzyme(s) may be added and optionally the preservative may be included in the mixture. The mixture can then be dispensed into appropriate containers for subsequent use.
Specific aspects of the present invention are disclosed in even greater detail in the following examples. The examples are illustrative only, and are not intended to limit the scope thereof in any respect. All parts and percentages are provided in weight percent unless otherwise stated.
Example 1
Xanthan gum (1.2 g) is dispersed completely in water (845 ml) by mixing vigorously. The mixture is then heated to a temperature of about 60°C. Next, Brij 35™ (21.5 g) is added and mixed until completely melted. Subsequently, stearic acid (65 g) is added and mixed until it has completely dissolved. The mixture is then warmed to about 75°C and triethanolamine (37 ml) poured in and mixed. Then lauryl sulphate (29g) is added for about 0.5h until all the components have combined thoroughly. The mixture is cooled to about 30°C and BHT (0.2 g) is added. The enzyme lipase (0.5 wt. %) derived from porcine pancreas is then added and entire mixture is mixed well to dissolve the enzyme. During the preparation, mixing is carried out at a low speed in order to minimize foaming.
The final mixture is cooled to 20°C and dispensed into appropriate vessels/cans. A blowing agent is used (A46 hydrocarbon at 3.2 wt.%) to act as a propellant. For portable systems, the foamable liquid preparation is contained and dispensed in pressurised canisters or alternatively dispensed into larger refiUable re-pressurisable canisters. For fixed, static applications the foamable liquid is contained within a tank
and piped under pressure to dispensing nozzles on, for example, a large printing machine.
Table 1
Example 2
The composition of Example 2 was prepared in the same way as Example 1 but the enzyme was an esterase (0.5 wt. %), derived from porcine liver.
Table 2
Both lipase (Example 1) and esterase (Example 2) enzymes have been trialled within the Basic Soap-Stabilised Foamable Liquid Formulation.
For the removal of thin vegetable oil films, the addition of 0.5% by weight lipase is more efficient in terms of speed of removal and percentage removal of the film, than 0.5%) by weight esterase.
While it is considered that esterase does have value in specific applications (eg. certain mineral oils) it is envisaged that lipase will be adopted as a standard enzyme for the application of the foam to most commercial-scale cleaning applications.
Example 3
An experiment to test the efficacy of the foamable liquid was conducted using the formulation of Example 1 compared to a control which comprised the formulation of Example 1 without the enzyme.
An ink film was applied to the rough sides of frosted microslides by spreading a thixotropic ink onto its surface. The ink was spread onto the slide so that the fissures on the rough surface filled up with the ink and produced an even layer was produced . The thickness of the ink layer was approximately 20 μm. Experiments were performed within a 25 by 12.5 cm square polypropylene box. Ink coated slides were supported so that they rested approximately 25 mm above the base of the box. In this way intimate contact with the foam was achieved whilst avoiding contact with the solution in the bottom of the box which results from drainage from the foam.
Each Foam (Example 1 and Example 1 minus enzyme) was scooped into a separate polypropylene box on top of the ink-coated slides. After a predetermined time (t=0 h and 89hrs) the slides were removed from the boxes and the surfaces freed from adherent foam. The residual ink was monitored photographically and using a densitometric technique. A third box with no foam was used as a further control.
Image analysis by densitometry was as follows: the slides bearing the ink layers were placed on a photographic light box and a black card mask with a rectangular aperture of the same dimensions as the deposited ink layer was placed over the slide. A video camera was focused on the slide/mask and the intensity of light transmitted was recorded. The video camera was connected to a Joyce/Loebel Magiscan image analyser to perform the densitometry measurement. The results are tabulated below. Values are given as transmittance so that black i.e. no transmittance would have a value of 0 whereas white i.e. complete transmittance would have a value of 100. Thus, the higher the densitometer transmittance value the more effective the cleaning.
With reference to the Figures, there is shown a control microslide (Figure 1 B) covered with an ink film which received no treatment. Figure 1 A illustrates an ink film coated microslide to which the foam formulation of Example 1 without the presence of an enzyme was applied whereas Figure 1C illustrates an ink film coated microslide to which the foam formulation of Example 1 including an enzyme ( 0.1% lipase) has been applied.
The results demonstrate that addition of the enzyme to the foam formulation greatly improves the ability and efficacy of the foam to lift ink spills compared to foam without an enzyme. In addition, following treatment with Example 1 foam with enzyme the residual ink film on the microslide was much "looser" and more amenable to being washed off in a water stream.
Example 4
The foamable liquid formulation incorporating 0.5% lipase and contained in a 400ml. pressurised canister has been tested in our kitchens and in large scale food preparation areas. The foam has been successfully used to remove both liquid and solid (crystalline) oil/grease films at room temperature (RT).
The substrates tested included: vinyl flooring; stainless steel worktops/food preparation surfaces; melamine (Formica) worktops/food preparation surfaces; glass oven doors;
The types of residues tested included: films of vegetable oil (liquid at RT); films of animal fats (solid at RT); Cocoa butter (solid at RT);
The foam was deposited directly from the 400ml. pressurised canister and onto the surface of the residue. In some cases, the surface was vertical (eg. oven doors) and the foam had sufficiently high cohesive properties to remain on the surface without any slippage. The foam was left for about 4min. then gently removed/swept from the substrate using a flat straight edge such as a soft plastic flat-edge spatula or rubber flat- edged 'squeegee'. It was unnecessary to apply undue pressure to the spatula or
'squeegee' onto the substrate, but only sufficient to effectively sweep away the foam bulk.
Our results showed that as the foam was removed, the oil/fat film could be seen to have lifted from the substrate and be trapped within the structure of the foam.
After the foam had been removed, the substrate had a dry, oil-free surface to the touch. The foam was effective in the removal of both solid (eg. cocoa butter) and liquid (eg. vegetable oil) films.
Those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings of the present invention as herein above set forth, can effect numerous modifications thereto. These modifications are to be construed as being encompassed within the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.
Claims
1. A foamable aqueous liquid product comprising: an aqueous liquid, a stabilising agent, a surfactant, optionally a viscosity modifier and an enzyme.
2. A product according to claim 1 further comprising a preservative.
3. A product according to either claim 1 or 2 void of any organic solvents.
4. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the aqueous liquid acts to solubilise/disperse various components within the foamable aqueous liquid product.
5. A product according to claim 4 wherein the aqueous liquid is water.
6. A product according to claim 5 wherein the water is distilled.
7. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the stabilising agent acts to stabilise the foam once it has been formed.
8. A product according to claim 7 wherein the stabilising agent comprises a fatty acid.
9. A product according to claim 8 wherein the fatty acid comprises stearic acid and/or sodium dodecyl sulphate.
10. A product. according to any preceding claim further comprising a base.
11. A product according to claim 10 wherein the base is triethanolamine.
12. A product according to any preceding claim further comprising an acid or buffer as a pH modifier.
13. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the surfactant comprises a non-ionic surfactant.
14. A product according to claim 13 wherein the non-ionic surfactant is polyoxyethylene.
15. A product according to claim 14 wherein the polyoxyethylene is Brij™.
16. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant.
17. A product according to claim 16 wherein the anionic surfactant is selected from sodium n-dodecyl sulphate or lauroylsarcosine sodium salt.
18. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the viscosity modifier acts to thicken the foamable aqueous liquid and product thus retard drainage from the formed foam.
19. A product according to claim 18 wherein the viscosity modifier is xanthan gum.
20. A product according to claim 2 or any of claims 3 to 19 when dependent thereon wherein the preservative is an antioxidant and/or an antibacterial agent which acts to retard degradation of fats or other organic materials.
21. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the enzyme is selected from the group consisting of a catalase, cellulase, cholesterol esterase, esterase, lipase, papain, peroxidase, phosphatase and protease and mixtures thereof.
22. A product according to any preceding claim provided as a foamable aqueous liquid product is contained within and dispensable from a pressurised container or canister.
23. A product according to claim 22 wherein the container/canister is reusable and capable of being re-pressurised.
24. A product according to any one of claims 1 to 21 provided in a fixed installation whereby foamable aqueous liquid product is contained within a tank/storage vessel and can be piped/dispensed under pressure from a directing nozzle to an area/ apparatus that needs to be cleaned.
25. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the foamable aqueous liquid product has a viscosity in the range 2 to 10 centipoise.
26. A product according to any preceding claim wherein the formed foam has bubbles of diameter within the range of 100 to 1000 μm.
27. A product according to claim 26 wherein the bubble diameter has a standard deviation in the range + 10-30%.
28. A product according to claim 26 wherein the bubble diameter has a standard deviation of ± 20%.
29. A foamable aqueous liquid formulation comprising about 80 to 90 wt.% of an aqueous liquid, about 7 to 12 wt.% of a stabilising agent, about 2 to 5 wt.% of a base, about 1 to 3 wt.% of a surfactant, and optionally about 0.05 to 0.5 wt.%) of a viscosity modifier, an enzyme in the range of about 0.1 to 1 ,0 wt.%, percentages of all components add up to 100%.
30. A formulation according to claim 29 further comprising about 0.01 to 0.05 wt.%) of a preservative
31. A formulation according to either claim 29, or 30 containing up to 5 wt.% of other additives or components.
32. A formulation according to claim 31 containing between 1 to 3 wt.% of other additives or components.
33. A formulation according to any one of claims 29 to 32 further including any one or more of the features recited in any one or more of claims 1 to 31.
34. A formulation according to any one of claims 29 to 33 wherein the foam is formed by aeration with a 3.2 wt.% propellant/blowing agent.
35. A method for obtaining a foamable aqueous liquid comprising the steps of:
(i) dispersing a viscosity modifier in an aqueous liquid; (ii) adding a surfactant and a stabilising agent;
(hi) adding a neutralising agent and optionally adding a further stabilising agent; (iv) adding a preservative and;
(v) adding at least one enzyme.
36. A method according to claim 35 wherein steps are performed sequentially as steps (i) to (v), simultaneously, or in a variety of combinations either separately or in combination.
37. A product or formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 35 comprising a foamable aqueous liquid formulation obtainable by the method according to either claim 36 or 37.
38. Use of a foamable aqueous liquid formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 35 as a cleaning product in printing and graphics industries.
39. Use of a foamable aqueous liquid formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 35 as a cleaning product in food preparation and manufacturing industries.
40. Use of a foamable aqueous liquid formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 35 as a cleaning product for removing lubricating and diesel oil-spill residues, grease residues and non-dried, oil-based paint residues after small scale spills.
41. A method of cleaning a surface comprising applying a foamable aqueous liquid product according to any one of claims 1 to 28 or a foamable aqueous liquid formulation according to any one of claims to 29 to 35 to the surface so as to remove lipids, fats and/or grease.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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GBGB0112286.0A GB0112286D0 (en) | 2001-05-19 | 2001-05-19 | Bio-active de-inking or cleaning foam |
GB1122860 | 2001-05-19 | ||
PCT/GB2002/002297 WO2002094973A1 (en) | 2001-05-19 | 2002-05-16 | Bio-active de-inking or cleaning foam |
Publications (1)
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EP1389231A1 true EP1389231A1 (en) | 2004-02-18 |
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EP02732894A Withdrawn EP1389231A1 (en) | 2001-05-19 | 2002-05-16 | Bio-active de-inking or cleaning foam |
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CA (1) | CA2447786A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB0112286D0 (en) |
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US5204016A (en) * | 1989-06-16 | 1993-04-20 | Golden Technologies Company, Inc. | Non-caustic oven cleaner, method for making and method of use |
EP0450702A3 (en) * | 1990-04-06 | 1993-06-02 | Unilever N.V. | Process for preparing liquid enzymatic detergent compositions |
GB2273893A (en) * | 1992-12-22 | 1994-07-06 | Unilever Plc | Delivering cleaning liquids to hand surfaces |
AU3896395A (en) * | 1994-10-11 | 1996-05-02 | James A. Monson | Dispensing apparatus for foaming compositions and method |
US6066614A (en) * | 1996-06-10 | 2000-05-23 | The Proctor & Gamble Company | Cleaning compositions |
EP0839905A1 (en) * | 1996-11-05 | 1998-05-06 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Foam detergent composition with enzymes |
US5998342A (en) * | 1998-08-26 | 1999-12-07 | Cottrell International, Llc | Foaming enzyme spray cleaning composition and method of delivery |
-
2001
- 2001-05-19 GB GBGB0112286.0A patent/GB0112286D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2002
- 2002-05-16 EP EP02732894A patent/EP1389231A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2002-05-16 WO PCT/GB2002/002297 patent/WO2002094973A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2002-05-16 CA CA002447786A patent/CA2447786A1/en not_active Abandoned
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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See references of WO02094973A1 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2447786A1 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
GB0112286D0 (en) | 2001-07-11 |
WO2002094973A1 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
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