EP1713896B1 - Microemulsions - Google Patents

Abstract

Methods comprising contacting a fabric in an automatic washing machine with a microemulsion comprising an oil and an emulsifier system, wherein the emulsifier system comprises a hydrophilic emulsifier and a lipophilic emulsifier; and microemulsions comprising: an oil, an antioxidant, and an emulsifier system; wherein the emulsifier system comprises a hydrophilic emulsifier and a lipophilic emulsifier; and wherein the microemulsion has a droplet size d<SUB>50 </SUB>less than 500 nm, which are suitable for use as fabric treatment agents.

Description

The invention relates to the use of special microemulsions containing natural oil (s) and a specific emulsifier system for textile treatment in the rinse cycle of an automatic washing machine, wherein the microemulsion from the dispensing compartment of a commercial automatic washing machine is flushed into the washroom. Furthermore, the invention relates to a special textile aftertreatment agent whose droplet size d _{50 is} less than 500 nm, and which comprises certain components.

Conventional textile treatment agents are essentially geared to the cleaning and care of textiles. In addition to the cleaning of textiles, it is mainly about improving the feel of textiles, softening them, smoothing them, preventing electrostatic charging of textiles, increasing the gloss and color brilliance of textiles, and textiles with the longest possible fragrance In addition, conventional textile treatment agents can also aid in ironing work, provide less fiber abrasion and improved color retention despite frequent fabric laundering. As can be seen, the focus of conventional textile treatment agents is almost exclusively on the textile. However, fabric treatment agents may also satisfy other consumer needs. Thus, the European patent publication EP 0 789 070 B1 the use of a fabric softening composition containing a benefit substance to the skin for delivering said substance to the skin and for conferring sensory and / or cosmetic benefits to the skin when textiles treated with the composition come into contact with the skin, wherein the fabric softening composition comprises 4 to 32 weight percent of a water-insoluble fabric softening quaternary ammonium compound having two C _12-26 alkyl or alkenyl groups attached to the N atom via one or more ester bonds. The use of a fabric softening composition containing a substance conferring an advantage on the skin for delivering this substance to the skin and for conferring sensory and / or cosmetic benefits to the skin when textiles treated with the composition come into contact with the skin wherein the skin benefit agent is a silicone is disclosed in the same document. In the examples of this patent, two corresponding agents are disclosed, each containing 4% by weight of a diesterquat and 1% by weight of a benefit skin silicone. So that reveals the EP 0 789 070 B1 a concept in which, although a performance for the treated textile is provided (textile softening), in addition, but also an added benefit for the skin, which in contact with the treated textile which goes beyond merely increasing the wearing comfort of the fabric by providing the skin with a cosmetic or sensory benefit.

In this context, it should also be considered that textile garments as such or on these remaining residues that z. B. remain after a cleaning process in the textile structures, can be harmful to the skin.

To reduce this problem z. B. for the removal of detergent residues sometimes detergent used to obtain skin-friendly textiles. That's how it describes DE 199 23 303 C2 Detergents containing certain minimum amounts of citric acid, lactic acid, cyclodextrin and ascorbic acid and are suitable for the production of skin-friendly textiles.

The prior art also includes the document WO 01/04254 A1 , This concerns an aqueous textile conditioning agent in the form of a microemulsion comprising one or more oils, one or more solvents and one or more cationic surfactants. However, the microemulsions mentioned there have only 0.5 to 35 wt .-% of water.

In the publication US 5,612,309 discloses a nitrogen-free softener composition consisting essentially of an anionic microemulsion comprising (i) 2 to 40% by weight of a hydrophobic, generally liquid, long chain hydrocarbon, said long chain hydrocarbon being a fatty acid ester of a polyol and (ii) 2 to 30% of an anionic surfactant. These microemulsions use an anionic surfactant, namely in particular magnesium paraffin sulfonate (MgPS) as a lipophilic surfactant.

The publication WO 00/66703 A1 describes a liquid composition comprising 15 to 95% by weight of lipophilic perfume, 0.05 to 5% by weight of dye, 4 to 50% by weight of a stabilizing agent comprising a cationic stabilizing agent and a water miscible solvent. However, the composition contains only 0.1 to 20 wt .-% water.

The publication US 6,376,455 B1 describes microemulsions which contain (a) certain cationic surfactants, (b) very specific solvation or coupling agents and blends thereof, and (c) an oil. The very specific "solvatropic or coupling agents" are a clear distinguishing feature of the present invention.

Against this background, the object of the present invention was to provide the consumer with an alternative method of textile treatment.

1. a) natürliche Öl(e)
   und ein
2. b) Emulgatorsystem aus wenigstens einem hydrophilen Emulgator, welcher ethoxylierter Fettalkohol ist, sowie wenigstens einem lipophilen kationischen Emulgator, sowie
3. c) 50 bis 90 Gew.-% Wasser, bezogen auf das gesamte Mittel,

zur Textilbehandlung im Spülgang einer automatischen Waschmaschine, wobei die Mikroemulsion aus der Einspülkammer einer handelsüblichen automatischen Waschmaschine in den Waschraum eingespült wird.This object is achieved by the use of a microemulsion which has a viscosity in the range from 5 to 300 mPas (measured with the Brookfield viscometer DV II at 22 ° C., 20 rpm, spindle 3)

1. a) natural oil (s)
   and a
2. b) emulsifier system of at least one hydrophilic emulsifier, which is ethoxylated fatty alcohol, and at least one lipophilic cationic emulsifier, and
3. c) 50 to 90% by weight of water, based on the total agent,

for textile treatment in the rinse cycle of an automatic washing machine, wherein the microemulsion from the dispensing compartment of a commercial automatic washing machine is flushed into the washroom.

The microemulsion is characterized in particular in that it has a droplet size d ₅₀ of less than 500 nm. The oils preferably have skin-protecting and / or skin-care and / or skin-healing properties. The droplet size d ₅₀ is understood to mean the feature value at which the distribution sum of the droplet diameter assumes the value 0.5 = 50%. For example, the statement "d ₅₀ = a μm" means that 50 (mass)% of the droplets considered have a diameter greater than a μm and 50 (mass)% a smaller diameter than a μm.

Microemulsions and their preparation have already been described in the patent literature. An overview of the preparation and use of microemulsions is given by H.Eicke in the SÖFW-Journal, 118, 311 (1992 ) and Th.Förster et al. in the SÖFW-Journal, 122, 746 (1996 ).

For example, the DE 37 16 526 C2 a stable oil-in-water microemulsion, which consists of 1 to 10 wt .-% of water-soluble anionic surfactant or 2 to 20 wt .-% of a mixture of water-soluble anionic and water-soluble nonionic surfactant, and from 2 to 10 wt .-% of a Cosurfactants selected from the group of polypropylene glycol ethers, monoalkyl ethers and certain esters of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, aliphatic mono- and dicarboxylic acids having 3 to 6 carbon atoms in the molecule, C ₉ - to C ₁₅ - Alkyletherpolyethenoxycarbonsäuren, and mono-, di- and triethyl, further from From 0.4 to 10% by weight of non-water soluble fragrant perfume containing 0 to 80% by weight of terpenes, and water, optionally with inorganic or organic polyvalent metal salt but no builder or solubilizing agent. Also disclosed in the same document are concentrated oil-in-water microemulsions comprising from 10 to 35% by weight of water-soluble anionic surfactant or from 18 to 65% by weight of a mixture of water-soluble anionic and water-soluble nonionic surfactant and from 2 to 30 % By weight of a cosurfactant selected from the group of polypropylene glycol ethers, monoalkyl ethers and certain esters of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, aliphatic mono- and dicarboxylic acids having 3 to 6 carbon atoms in the molecule, C ₉ to C ₁₅ alkyl ether polyethenoxycarboxylic acids, and mono-, di-, and triethyl phosphate, further comprising from 10 to 50% by weight of non-water soluble fragrant perfume containing 0 to 80% by weight of terpenes, and water, optionally with inorganic or organic polyvalent metal salt but no builder or solubilizer is. The in the DE 37 16 526 C2 described microemulsions act primarily as a stable, clear, suitable for hard surfaces all-purpose cleaning agents with particular effectiveness in removing oily and greasy soil.

The object of the present invention, however, is the use of a microemulsion for textile treatment in the rinse of an automatic washing machine as specified in claim 1. This item has several advantages. A very important advantage is that the alternative possibility of textile treatment offered to the consumer with the object of the invention is easily carried out in an automatic washing machine, since the use of the microemulsion is characterized, inter alia, by the fact that the microemulsion excels very well from the dispensing chamber commercially available automatic washing machine can be flushed into the laundry room. In addition, the dispersibility of the microemulsion is very good even in cold water. Another advantage of the invention is that the use of the microemulsion according to the invention has a dual benefit for the consumer. On the one hand, due to the oil (s) and emulsifiers, the microemulsion acts as a common textile treatment agent. z. Example, characterized in that the laundry thus treated in the washing machine is given a softer grip. On the other hand, as a result of the use according to the invention, the microemulsion also benefits the human skin by virtue of the fact that the textiles treated with the microemulsion are beneficial for the health of the skin in terms of skin health insofar as, for example, the risk of skin irritation results of the contact skin / treated textile is not additionally increased, but rather diminished, or so that already irritated or irritated or sensitized skin is not further damaged by the contact with the treated textile, but rather calmed. This is achieved by the subject matter of the invention in that the oil (s) contained in the microemulsion preferably at least partially pass over to the textile fibers when used in the washing machine and at least partially from the textile to the oils on contact of the treated textile fibers with human skin Soak the skin, so that the treated textile as a temporary host for the oils occurs. Supplying the skin with oil via this intermediate host is advantageous for the skin in the abovementioned manner, since the oil preferably has skin-protecting and / or skin-care and / or skin-healing properties. Thus, the skin can be provided at least a cosmetic or sensory benefit or benefit beyond.

For example, it can be advantageously counteracted such a drying of the skin and it can also be advantageously the flakiness of the skin can be reduced.

The oil is advantageously not completely, but only partly to the skin. The partial retention of the skin-healing and / or skin-protecting substance in the inventive sense on the textile fiber can be estimated as advantageous for two reasons:

On the one hand there are sometimes dermatological problems as a result of immediate skin intolerance of certain Fasergattungen. The fact that the oils, preferably oils with skin-protecting and / or skin-care and / or skin-healing properties, partially remain on the textile, there is a reduction of the contact between the fiber and the bare skin, so that the skin-healing substance in the broadest sense as a fiber cladding can be understood.

On the other hand, modern detergents have made it possible to achieve excellent optical cleaning effects even at relatively low wash temperatures. By lowering the washing temperature is to assume that certain, the natural skin flora of man detrimental microorganisms that are destroyed at higher temperatures, the wash cycle now survive. Antiseptic ingredients of the oils counteract this problem.

For the purposes of this application, emulsifiers are considered to be lipophilic essentially when they are advantageously predominantly soluble or miscible in C ₁₂ -C ₂₀ triglycerides. Lipophilicity can result, for example, when the emulsifiers have, for example, hydrocarbon radicals having 6 to 22 carbon atoms or contain aryl radicals, for example, to give illustrative but non-limiting examples. Lipophilic emulsifiers are essentially of a slightly polar, rather non-polar character. Lipophilic emulsifiers for the purposes of this invention are lipophilic, cationic emulsifiers. In contrast, emulsifiers in the sense of this application are essentially hydrophilic if they are advantageously predominantly soluble in water or miscible with it. Hydrophilic emulsifiers have essentially a polar character. Hydrophilicity may result, for example, when the emulsifier contains, for example, hydroxy group (s), ester group (s), ether group (s) or glycerine group (s), to give illustrative but non-limiting examples.

The terms skin care, skin protection and skin healing are to be distinguished. The skin care essentially achieves a cosmetic benefit in terms of sensory needs z. Softness or gloss of the skin under normal conditions.

On the other hand, the term "skin protection" is understood to mean everything that is necessary to maintain the normal performance of the skin in terms of its functions under specific stressful situations and goes beyond its own protective mechanisms. This concept also differs significantly from the skin care, because the skin care achieved only a cosmetic benefit in terms of sensory needs z. Softness or gloss under normal conditions. The skin protection, however, supports the skin with additional agents that help the skin, for example, even in adverse conditions, to fulfill their multifaceted functions. Such adverse conditions can z. As friction, cold, heat, UV radiation, aggressive ambient fluids, contact with skin-irritating materials. A skin-protecting active substance, has at the same time also a skin-caring function at the same time.

The term skin healing or the attribute skin-healing can be defined in the context of this invention most simply by the state of healthy human skin. Healthy human skin is characterized by the fact that it provides sufficient protection against microorganisms, germs and pathogens by means of their intact acid mantle that their buffering capacity and their alkali neutralizing power is sufficient to repel damaging influences of surrounding fluids, that there is a high degree of freedom from redness and that there is freedom from skin damage such as cuts, abrasions and burns, irritation, inflammation and allergies, and neither cracked nor dried out is. Furthermore, healthy skin is characterized by the fact that it takes on a depot function for fat, water and blood and an important role in the metabolism. If the skin is unable to take over the functions mentioned above or if it shows obvious damage or itching from the skin, it can no longer be classified as healthy. Skin healing in the context of the present invention is now all that helps the skin to return to its original state. It is also all skin-healing, which stimulates, trains, supports and promotes the self-regulation of the skin, so that it is able to fulfill their functions, in that it returns to the natural state of equilibrium. Furthermore, the term skin healing in the context of this invention is understood to mean all the influences which lead to at least alleviate, if not heal, obvious skin diseases such as eczema, rashes, redness, itching, swelling, blistering, oozing, crusting in various forms , A skin-healing active substance, has at the same time also a skin-protecting and skin-caring function at the same time.

As already mentioned, the good flushability of the microemulsion within the context of the use according to the invention is a significant advantage of the subject of the invention. The flushability of the microemulsion and its dispersibility even in cold water are especially good, if certain maximum values for the droplet size are not exceeded and certain minimum values are not exceeded. Advantageously, such microemulsions are also particularly stable.

Microemulsions with a droplet size d ₅₀ not greater than 400 nm, preferably not greater than 300 nm, advantageously not greater than 250 nm, in a further advantageous manner not greater than 200 nm, more preferably not greater than 150 nm, in particular a value not exceeding 100 nm are therefore particularly preferred, and accordingly, the use of these preferred microemulsions is a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention.

Likewise, it is also extremely advantageous for the dispensability of the microemulsion and its dispersibility even in cold water, especially if certain minimum values of the droplet size are not violated.

Microemulsions having a droplet size d ₅₀ not smaller than 10 nm, preferably not smaller than 25 nm, advantageously not smaller than 40 nm, especially not lower than 60 nm, are therefore particularly preferred, and accordingly, the use of these preferred microemulsions is a particular one advantageous embodiment of the invention.

The use of a microemulsion according to the invention which contains cationic polymer, preferably in amounts of less than 10 wt .-%, advantageously less than 5 wt .-%, more preferably in amounts of less than 3 wt .-%, in still more preferably in amounts of less than 1 wt .-%, but in particular in amounts of less than 0.5 wt .-%, wherein preferably a lower limit of 0.05 wt .-%, advantageously of 0.1 wt is not exceeded provides also a preferred embodiment of the invention. Advantageously, cationic polymers are able to further contribute to the stability of the microemulsion and at the same time they serve the treated textile and the skin in that they can be applied as thin films in the textile treatment on the textile fibers. Thus, the visual impression of the textile can be upgraded, in that it appears silky shiny and the textile is protected by the film from harmful environmental influences. With contact Textile / skin one can also notice an improved grip of the textile. In addition, the cationic polymers can be released at least partially to the skin even when the treated textile contacts the skin, so that the skin is in turn directly protected by a cationic polymer film.

Particularly advantageous cationic polymers in the context of the invention are polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds, preferably selected from copolymers of quaternized vinylimidazole and vinylpyrrolidone, copolymers of vinylcaprolactam, vinylpyrrolidone and quaternized vinylimidazole and / or quaternized copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylates. A particularly preferred polymer is the 3-methylvinylimidazoline chloride-vinylpyrrolidone copolymer, available as Luviquat® Excellence from BASF AG.

As already described, an important advantage of the subject invention is that, as a result of the use according to the invention, a textile treated with a corresponding microemulsion is beneficial to the health of the skin. It is therefore advantageous if the microemulsions to be used according to the invention have further ingredients which are beneficial for the well-being of the skin.

An ingredient that is also useful in this context is urea and / or its derivatives.

Urea and / or its derivatives promote the health of the skin, as they can be antimicrobial, water-binding, quenching itching, dandruff, skin-smoothing and can inhibit excessive cell growth. Furthermore, they can serve the skin as a moisturizing factor, i. H. they can help the skin to retain moisture.

The microemulsions to be used according to the invention can therefore contain urea and / or its derivatives.

Advantageously, the microemulsions to be used according to the invention may comprise moisturizing factors, for example those selected from the following group: amino acids, chitosan or chitosan salts / derivatives, ethylene glycol, glucosamine, glycerol, diglycerol, triglycerol, uric acid, honey and hardened honey, polyaspartic acid, creatinine, Cleavage products of collagen, lactitol, polyols and polyol derivatives (for example, butylene glycol, erythritol, propylene glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, polyethylene glycols such as PEG-4, PEG-6, PEG-7, PEG-8, PEG-9, PEG-10 , PEG-12, PEG-14, PEG-16, PEG-18, PEG-20), pyrrolidonecarboxylic acid, sugar and sugar derivatives (for example, fructose, glucose, maltose, maltitol, mannitol, inositol, sorbitol, sorbitylsilanediol, sucrose, trehalose, xylose , Xylitol, glucuronic acid and its salts), ethoxylated sorbitol (sorbeth-6, sorbeth-20, sorbeth-30, sorbeth-40), hardened starch hydrolysates and mixtures of hardened wheat protein and PEG-20 acetate copolymer he, especially panthenol. Such microemulsions are very advantageous because they are particularly useful for moisture regulation of the skin, and the use of such microemulsions is a preferred embodiment of the invention.

The moisturizing factors mentioned are advantageous because they can help to regulate the moisture content of the skin. It is known that textiles, which generally have a certain absorbency, may also lose moisture on contact of the textile with the skin of the latter. The skin can be so by simply wearing laundry, which lying directly on the body or comes into contact with it, moisture is removed. The presence of moisturizing factors in the microemulsion can now advantageously lead to at least compensate for this loss, if not to overcompensate it. In turn, the textile treated with the microemulsion in the course of a laundry treatment in an automatic washing machine, which acts as an intermediate host, first absorbs the substances having a moisturizing function in order to then release them to the skin upon contact with the skin, in particular when it rubs against the skin , It is particularly advantageous to supply the skin via the treated textile both with oils or lipids and with moisturizing factors. Particularly irritated skin can be relieved so advantageously, because the effect of the oils and the moisturizing factors reinforcing supports.

In the overall context of the invention, it is furthermore very advantageous if the microemulsions used contain complexing agents.

Microemulsions containing complexing agents, preferably selected from the group of citrates, citric acid, gluconates, gluconic acid phosphates, phosphonates, carboxylates, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and / or its salts, nitrilotriacetic acid and / or its salts, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid and / or its salts, propylenediaminetetraacetic acid and / or their salts, alaninediacetic acid and / or their salts, methylglycinediacetic acid and / or their salts, iminodisuccinic acid and / or salts thereof and / or the trisodium salt of ethylenediamine-N, N'-disuccinic acid, the citrates and / or citric acid being most preferred are therefore particularly advantageous and accordingly, the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The complexing agents are preferably present in certain proportions.

Microemulsions containing complexing agents in amounts of at least 1.5% by weight, advantageously of at least 2.5% by weight, more preferably in amounts of at least 4% by weight, more preferably in amounts of at least 6 Wt .-%, but especially in amounts of at least 7.5 wt .-%, wherein preferably an upper limit of 25 wt .-%, advantageously of 20 wt .-%, more preferably 17 wt .-%, in more preferably not more than 15% by weight, in particular 12% by weight, are particularly advantageous and correspondingly within the scope of the invention the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

Against the background of the invention, to enable the consumer an alternative way of textile treatment, in which, as has been described, not only the textile is given a soft grip, but also gives the skin an advantage, are especially the citric acid and Citrates are very helpful as complexing agents because they also have a skin-functional relationship.

The ingredients citric acid and / or citrates serve u. a. to support or renew the natural acid mantle or hydrolipid film of the skin. The hydrolipidic film of the skin is attacked or destroyed by alkaline influences, resulting in a loss of the barrier function of the skin, so that microorganisms or pollutants can more easily penetrate into the skin. By citric acid in the inventive compositions can be z. B. Remove residual alkali from clothing and adjust the pH of the textiles to a pH range, for example by 5. In addition, water hardness and dirt are bound or complexed by citric acid and / or citrate. In addition, citric acid and citrates are fully biodegradable up to the mineral end products carbon dioxide and water.

Microemulsions in which at least citrate (s) and / or at least citric acid are present, preferably exclusively citrate (s) and / or citric acid, wherein the citrate (s) and / or citric acid are preferably used in amounts of from 1% to 16% by weight .-% are included as a complexing agent, are particularly advantageous and accordingly, the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The oil contained in the microemulsion has both a very important role to play in softening the textile to be treated and, in particular, the relationship with the skin as described.

The natural oil contained in the microemulsion is preferably selected from the group of vegetable and / or animal fatty oils, and / or essential oils and, accordingly, the use of these particularly preferred microemulsions constitutes a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention.

In a further particular embodiment, a skin-protecting substance is used. This skin-protecting substance is advantageously a skin-protecting oil, eg. B. also to a carrier oil, in particular selected from the group algae oil Oleum Phaeophyceae, Aloe vera oil Aloe vera brasiliana, apricot kernel oil Prunus armeniaca, Arnica montana oil, Persica americana avocado oil, Borago offcinalis borage oil, calendula oil Calendula officinalis, camellia oil Camellia oleifera, safflower Carthamus oil tinctorius, Echium oil, Peanut oil Arachis hypogaea, Hemp oil Cannabis sativa, Hazelnut oil Corylus avellana, Hypericum perforatum, Jojoba oil Simondsia chinensis, Caraway oil Daucus carota, Blackcurrant seed oil, Coconut oil Cocos nucifera, Pumpkin seed oil Curcubita pepo, Kukui nut oil Aleurites moluccana, Macadamia nut oil Macadamia ternifolia, Almond oil Prunus dulcis, Evening primrose oil, Olea europaea olive oil, Prunus persica peach kernel oil, Brassica oleifera rapeseed oil, Ricinus communis castor oil, Nigella sativa black seed oil, Sesamium indicum sesame oil, Helianthus annus sunflower oil, Vitis vinifera grape seed oil, Trichod esma oil, walnut oil Juglans regia, wheat germ oil Triticum sativum, of which in particular borage oil, hemp oil and almond oil are advantageous.

All of the oils just listed are natural emollients, d. H. Means that soften and soften body tissues and reduce the roughness of the skin. So these oils also have a skin-conditioning effect. On the other hand, it is precisely these oils which have further specific effects which result in a synergistic interaction with the skin and its self-regulating forces and also enable protection under adverse conditions.

Another preferred oil is almond oil. It is characterized by the fact that it can enhance the action of other oils, which is why it is advantageously used in combination with other oils. But also the use of almond oil in the microemulsion without the addition of other fatty oils may also be preferred.

The emulsifier system contained in the microemulsions is particularly advantageous for the stability and also for the flushability of the microemulsions to be used according to the invention.

The Applicant could surprisingly find that the microemulsion shows very advantageous properties in terms of stability but also with regard to its flushing behavior, if it contains certain emulsifiers.

Microemulsions in which at least one lipophilic cationic emulsifier is contained are particularly advantageous. Such microemulsions are particularly stable.

As already described, the microemulsion to be used according to the invention not only has an emulsifier. It is of great benefit for the stability and the flushability of the microemulsions, if in addition to at least one cationic also a nonionic hydrophilic emulsifier is present.

Microemulsion, in which at least one nonionic emulsifier is contained, in particular a hydrophilic nonionic emulsifier, wherein, if cationic emulsifier is simultaneously contained, the ratio cationic to nonionic emulsifier advantageously in the range of 70: 1 to 3: 1, in particular from 50: 1 to 8: 1, preferably from 30: 1 to 10: 1, and more preferably from 20: 1 to 12: 1 are therefore particularly preferred, and accordingly, the use of these particularly preferred microemulsions is a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention Such microemulsions are particularly stable and very good from the dispensing compartment of a washing machine, especially from the compartment for the aftertreatment agent (eg fabric softener), in which usually the "siphon effect" is applied, einspülbar. The "siphon effect" will be briefly explained below.

The flushability and the stability of the microemulsions can be even further improved if very specific nonionic emulsifiers are used.

Microemulsions in which the nonionic emulsifier contained therein is selected from ethoxylated fatty alcohols are particularly advantageous. With regard to the ethoxylated fatty alcohols, the addition products of 5 to 40 are particularly preferred

Ethylene oxide units on C _6-22 fatty alcohols, with Eumulgin® B3 (cetylstearyl alcohol + 30 EO, available from Cognis Deutschland GmbH) in particular being highly preferred. Particularly preferred with regard to usable ethoxylated fatty acid alkanolamides are preferably the ethoxylated Kokosfettsäuremonoethanolamide, especially Kokosfettsäuremonoethanolamide plus 4 ethylene oxide units, which corresponds for example to the commercial product Eumulgin® C4 (available from Cognis Germany GmbH). When using nonionic emulsifiers according to this preferred embodiment, in particular when using Eumulgin B3, it is possible to provide microemulsions according to the invention with outstanding stability, outstanding flushability and outstanding dispersibility in water.

Likewise, the Einspülbarkeit and stability of the microemulsions to be used according to the invention can be further improved, although also very specific cationic emulsifiers are used.

Microemulsions in which the cationic emulsifiers contained therein are quaternary ammonium compounds, advantageously alkylated quaternary ammonium compounds, preferably having one, two or three hydrophobic groups which are linked in particular via ester or amido bonds to a quaternized di- or triethanolamine or an analogous compound, are particularly advantageous, and accordingly, the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

hierbei steht R für einen aliphatischen Alkylrest mit 12 bis 22 Kohlenstoffatomen mit 0, 1, 2 oder 3 Doppelbindungen; R¹ steht für H, OH oder insbesondere O(CO)R⁴, R² steht unabhängig von

• R¹ für H, OH oder O(CO)R⁵, wobei R⁴ und R⁵ unabhängig voneinander jeweils für einen aliphatischen Alkylrest mit 12 bis 22 Kohlenstoffatomen mit 0, 1, 2 oder 3 Doppelbindungen steht, a, b und c können jeweils unabhängig voneinander den Wert 1, 2 oder 3 haben, X- ist ein passendes Anion, vorzugsweise ein Halogenid-, Methosulfat-, Methophosphat- oder Phosphation sowie Mischungen aus diesen sein,
  und/oder der Formel (II) ist:
  
• wobei R⁶, R⁷ und R⁸ unabhängig voneinander für eine C_1-4-Alkyl-, Alkenyl- oder Hydroxyalkylgruppe steht, R⁹ und R¹⁰ jeweils unabhängig ausgewählt eine C_8-28-Alkylgruppe mit 0, 1, 2 oder 3 Doppelbindungen darstellt und u eine Zahl zwischen 0 und 5 ist, X- ist ein passendes Anion, vorzugsweise ein Halogenid-, Methosulfat-, Methophosphat- oder Phosphation sowie Mischungen aus diesen sein,

sind im Rahmen der Erfindung sehr vorteilhaft, und dementsprechend stellt die Verwendung dieser sehr vorteilhaften Mikroemulsionen eine besonders bevorzugte Ausführungsform der Erfindung dar.Microemulsions in which the cationic emulsifier contained is a quaternary ammonium compound selected from the following formulas (I):

where R is an aliphatic alkyl radical having 12 to 22 carbon atoms with 0, 1, 2 or 3 double bonds; R ¹ is H, OH or in particular O (CO) R ⁴ , R ² is independent of

• R ^{1 is} H, OH or O (CO) R ⁵ , wherein R ⁴ and R ⁵ are each independently an aliphatic alkyl radical having 12 to 22 carbon atoms with 0, 1, 2 or 3 double bonds, a, b and c may respectively independently of one another have the value 1, 2 or 3, X - is a suitable anion, preferably a halide, methosulfate, methophosphate or phosphate ion and mixtures of these,
  and / or the formula (II) is:
  
• wherein R ⁶ , R ⁷ and R ⁸ independently represent a C _1-4 alkyl, alkenyl or hydroxyalkyl group, R ⁹ and R ¹⁰ each independently selected a C _8-28 alkyl group of 0, 1, 2 or 3 Represents double bonds and u is a number between 0 and 5, X - is a suitable anion, preferably a halide, methosulfate, methophosphate or phosphate ion, and mixtures of these,

are very advantageous in the context of the invention, and accordingly, the use of these very advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

Microemulsions in which the cationic emulsifier contained therein is N-methyl-N (2-hydroxyethyl) -N, N- (ditallowacyloxyethyl) ammonium methosulfate or N-methyl-N (2-hydroxyethyl) -N, N are (dipalmitoylethyl) ammonium methosulfate, are very advantageous, and accordingly, the use of these very advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The content of cationic emulsifier, preferably lipophilic cationic emulsifier can be adjusted advantageously.

Microemulsions containing less than 20% by weight, preferably less than 15% by weight, advantageously less than 10% by weight, very advantageously less than 5% by weight, more preferably less than 4% by weight. -%, more preferably less than 3.5 wt .-%, most advantageously less than 3 wt .-%, in an extremely advantageous manner less than 2.5 wt .-%, most advantageously less than 2 wt .-%, but at least 0.1 wt .-%, advantageously at least 0.5 wt .-%, in particular at least 1 wt .-% of cationic , preferably lipophilic cationic emulsifiers, are extremely advantageous and, accordingly, the use of these highly advantageous microemulsions constitutes a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The content of nonionic, preferably hydrophilic nonionic surfactants can be adjusted advantageously.

A microemulsion containing less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 3% by weight, advantageously less than 2% by weight, most preferably less than 1.5% by weight, more preferably less than 1.0 wt.%, More preferably less than 0.75 wt.%, Most advantageously less than 0.6 wt.%, Most preferably less than 0.45 wt.% , in an advantageous manner less than 0.35 wt .-%, but at least 0.15 wt .-%, advantageously at least 0.2 wt .-%, in particular at least 0.25 wt .-% of nonionic, preferably hydrophilic nonionic emulsifiers is to be classified as very advantageous in the context of this invention, so that the use of these very advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The importance of the oil in the context of this invention has already been pointed out. According to the Applicant's knowledge, it is the case that the microemulsions to be used according to the invention are very advantageous with regard to flushability, stability, and also with regard to skin health, if certain quantitative ranges are adhered to.

Microemulsions which at least 0.5 wt .-%, preferably at least 2.5 wt .-%, advantageously at least 5 wt .-%, in particular 10 wt .-%, but not more than 50 wt .-%, preferably not more than 45% by weight, advantageously not more than 40% by weight, most advantageously not more than 35% by weight, more preferably not more than 32% by weight, most advantageously not more than 28 wt .-%, most advantageously not more than 25 wt .-% of oils, each based on the total microemulsion, are classified as very advantageous, so that the use of these very advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

In order to improve the stability of the microemulsions still further, they may contain thickeners.

A microemulsion comprising at least 0.05% by weight, preferably at least 0.1% by weight, advantageously at least 0.15% by weight, in particular at least 0.2% by weight, but not more than 10% by weight. -%, preferably not more than 3 wt .-%, advantageously not more than 2.5 wt .-%, very advantageously not more than 2.0 wt .-%, more preferably not more than 1.5 Wt .-%, in an extremely advantageous manner not more than 1.0 wt .-%, in particular not more than 0.75 wt .-%, most advantageously not more than 0.5 wt .-% of hydrophilic and / or contains lipophilic thickening agents, is classified as very advantageous in this sense, so that the use of these very advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

1. a) Polysaccharide, insbesondere Xanthan-Gum, Guar-Derivate, Gummi ara-bicum, Karaya-Gummi, Traganth, Taragummi, Gellan, Carrageen, Johannisbrotkernmehl, Agar-Agar, Alginate, Pektine und/oder Dextrane,
2. b) organische vollsynthetische Verdickungsmittel, insbesondere Polyacrylate, Polyacrylamide, Polyvinylpyrrolidon, Polyvinylalkohol, Polyethylenglykole, hydrophob modifizierte Polyether, Polyurethane, Styrol-Maleinsäureanhydrid-Copolymerisate, deren Salze und/oder Derivate,
3. c) nichtionische und/oder anionische Cellulose-Derivate, insbesondere Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carboxymethylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl-methylcellulose, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Ethylhydroxyethyl-cellulose, Methylcellulose,
4. d) Stärke-Fraktionen und Derivate, insbesondere Amylose, Amylopektin und Dextrine,
5. e) Tone, insbesondere Bentonit.
6. f) Fettsäuren, Fettalkohole, Silikonöle, Wachse,
7. g) Mischungen der vorgenannten

auszuwählen, und die entsprechenden Mikroemulsionen sind sehr vorteilhaft, vor allem hinsichtlich der Stabilität der Emulsion, und dementsprechend ist die Verwendung dieser sehr vorteilhaften Mikroemulsionen eine besonders bevorzugte Ausführungsform der Erfindung.The thickener contained in the microemulsion is preferably selected from the group of

1. a) polysaccharides, in particular xanthan gum, guar derivatives, gum ara-bicum, karaya gum, tragacanth, tara gum, gellan, carrageenan, locust bean gum, agar-agar, alginates, pectins and / or dextrans,
2. b) organic fully synthetic thickeners, in particular polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycols, hydrophobically modified polyethers, polyurethanes, styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers, their salts and / or derivatives,
3. c) nonionic and / or anionic cellulose derivatives, in particular hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose,
4. d) starch fractions and derivatives, in particular amylose, amylopectin and dextrins,
5. e) clays, in particular bentonite.
6. f) fatty acids, fatty alcohols, silicone oils, waxes,
7. g) mixtures of the aforementioned

and the corresponding microemulsions are very advantageous, especially with regard to the stability of the emulsion, and accordingly the use of these very advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

Very preferred thickening agents are the fatty acids. These are not only able to further stabilize the emulsion, but surprisingly, the combination of the oils with the fatty acids causes the oils to better attract the treated textiles. The fatty acids can advantageously increase the efficiency of oil loading of the textile to the extent that almost 100 percent of the amount of oil contained in the microemulsion can be applied to the textile in the textile treatment. Advantageously, the microemulsions therefore contain fatty acid (s), preferably in amounts of up to 10% by weight, in a further advantageous manner in amounts of up to 5% by weight, in particular in amounts of from 2 to 4% by weight.

Particularly suitable here are C12-C16 fatty acids, in particular myristic acid.

As dispersing agents, the microemulsions to be used according to the invention comprise water in which the oil phase is preferably distributed. The water content can be adjusted advantageously.

Microemulsion which is at least 50% by weight, but preferably not more than 85% by weight, advantageously not more than 80% by weight, very advantageously not more than 75% by weight, more advantageously not more as 70% by weight, most advantageously not more than 68% by weight, most advantageously not more than 65% by weight of water, in each case based on the total agent, are advantageous and, accordingly, the use These advantageous microemulsions a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

As already described, the oils they contain not only serve to soften the fabric, but also serve to provide the skin with benefits through the textile acting as a temporary host. This benefit is very advantageous just when the oils have certain properties.

Microemulsions containing at least one oil with skin-protecting and / or skin-care and / or skin-healing properties are particularly advantageous in this context, accordingly, the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

Likewise, microemulsion in which at least one of the oils contained in the microemulsion is antiseptic effective, advantageous, so that consequently also the use of these advantageous microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. In the context of this invention, the attribute of antiseptic efficacy means an effect that is beneficial to the self-regulating forces of human skin. This effectiveness is not in their expression with that of classical germicidal or germicidal agents such. As phenols, halogens, alcohols, with which z. As skin and mucous membranes, wounds or even medical instruments treated to achieve asepsis (sterility) to compare. The classical antiseptic includes antimicrobial measures at the point of origin or at the portal of entry of a possible infection or at the site of infection on the body surface. However, such strong effectiveness is not sought in the context of the invention, as it would undoubtedly lead to the elimination of harmful germs o. Ä., But it would also affect the natural skin flora of humans.

The particular advantage of the antiseptic active substances which can be used according to the invention results from a synergistic interaction of these substances with the general functional mechanisms of human skin, since these substances have a mildly antiseptic action, eg. B. germs, including harmful germs reduce, but not perfect, so to sterility, destroy. So there are enough germs on the skin that are sufficient to train and strengthen the self-regulating powers of human skin. The interaction of the self-regulating forces of the skin with the antiseptic capacity of the active ingredients in the middle of the skin supports the general functioning of the skin. This is of great advantage, especially with regard to already irritated and / or otherwise damaged skin. In already irritated and / or sensitized and / or otherwise damaged or even particularly sensitive skin, the self-regulatory powers of the skin are sometimes no longer able, even temporarily, to ensure skin health on their own. In synergistic interaction with the agents to be used according to the invention, these self-regulating forces are supported, trained and strengthened. In this way, the textile treatment agent or the laundry treated with it supports the natural skin flora of humans.

In order not to affect the natural skin flora of humans, it is important to exclude (largely) those substances that are highly disinfectant or antiseptic effective, such. As glutaraldehyde, but at the same time hold a high allergy potential and skin and mucous membrane are irritating.

This antiseptic oil is preferably an essential oil, which is especially selected from the group of Angelica fine - Angelica archangelica, anise - Pimpinella anisum, Benzoin siam - Styrax tokinensis, Cabreuva - Myrocarpus fastigiatus, Cajeput - Melaleuca leucadendron, Cistus - Cistrus ladaniferus, Copaiba balm - Copaifera reticulata, Costus root - Saussurea discolor, Edeltann needle - Abies alba, Elemi - Canarium luzonicum, Fennel - Foeniculum dulce Spruce Needle - Picea abies, Geranium - Pelargonium graveolens, Ho Leaves - Cinnamonum camphora, Immortelle (Strawflower) Helichrysum ang., Ginger - Zingiber off., St. John's Wort - Hypericum perforatum, Jojoba, Chamomile German - Matricaria recutita, Chamomile blue fine - Matricaria chamomilla , Chamomile roman - Anthemis nobilis, Chamomile wild - Ormensis multicaulis, Carrot - Daucus carota, Mountain pine - Pinus mugho, Lavandine - Lavendula hybrida, Litsea cubeba - (May Chang), Manuka - Leptospermum scoparium, Melissa - Melissa officinalis, Sea pine - Pinus pinaster, Myrrh - Commiphora molmol, Myrtle - Myrtus communis, Neem - Azadirachta, Niaouli - (MQV) Melaleuca quin. viridiflora, Palmarosa - Cymbopogom martini, patchouli - Pogostemon patchouli, Peru balsam - Myroxy-Ion balsamum var. pereirae, Raventsara aromatica, rosewood - Aniba pink odora, sage - Salvia officinalis Horsetail - Equisetaceae, yarrow extra - Achillea millefolia, plantain lanceolate - Plantago lanceolata, Styrax - Liquidambar orientalis, Tagetes (Marigold) Tagetes patula, Tea Tree - Melaleuca alternifolia, Tolu Balsam - Myroxylon Balsamum L., Virginia Cedar - Juniperus virginiana, Frankincense (Olibanum) - Boswellia carteri, Silver Fir - Abies alba.

Another advantage of the aforementioned essential oils lies in their particular multifunctionality, which, in addition to the described mild antiseptic activity, results from a multitude of other desirable organoleptic properties attributable to these oils. These oils are in most cases given an expectorant effect because they exert on the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs a mild, positive stimulus. Furthermore, a desirable feeling of warmth can be established. Deodorizing, analgesic, circulation-promoting, calming effects could be observed in connection with the use according to the invention of these designated oils by the applicant and be recognized as particularly advantageous. The organoleptic properties of these oils are usually not influenced by the main components, but by the minor or trace constituents, which can often go into the hundreds and sometimes interact synergistically. Another advantage associated with the oils mentioned is their harmonious fragrance and scent, which in many cases leads to positive feelings in humans.

In this way, the textile treatment agent or the laundry treated with it not only supports the natural skin flora of humans, but also helps the human organism to obtain additional advantages of the type just described.

A microemulsion in which at least one of the oils contained has a minimum content of γ-linolenic acid of 0.1% by weight, based on the oil in question, is particularly advantageous for the invention and in particular is at least one of the oils, preferably at least two of them Oils selected from hemp oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, blackcurrant seed oil, echium oil, trichodesma oil and / or black cumin oil. Accordingly, the use of these particularly advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

A particularly preferred oil in the context of this invention is z. B. the hemp oil. Hemp oil, which contains a high proportion of essential fatty acids and also contains up to 6% by weight of the valuable γ-linolenic acid (GLA), also has anti-inflammatory, slightly analgesic, healing, nourishing, improving skin structure, preventing signs of aging. It improves tissue regeneration processes and has a high regenerative effect on injured tissue. In addition, it may increase the care properties or other properties of other oils in particular of all oils explicitly mentioned here. Since essential fatty acids are significantly involved in maintaining the barrier function of the skin, because they help to regulate and normalize the transepidermal water loss through the skin, the hemp oil for the purposes of this invention, as a result of its high GLA content, a special role, since In case of disturbed transepidermal water loss, topical treatment with GLA leads to the greatest reduction in transepidermal water loss.

Another preferred oil for the purposes of this invention is the borage oil. Due to its high GLA content (up to 25% by weight) it has comparable properties and advantages to hemp oil. The same applies to the evening primrose oil, which is also a preferred oil.

If the pH of the microemulsion, in particular the pH of a 1% aqueous solution of the microemulsion at a temperature of T = 20 ° C is not greater than 6.5, preferably not greater than 5.5, it is Accordingly, the use of these particularly preferred microemulsions is a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention.

A pH of the microemulsion (textile treatment agent) between 2 to 6.5, preferably between 3 to 5.5, measured at a temperature of 20 ° C, in particular on a 1% aqueous solution of the textile treatment agent is advantageous in terms of pH Value of the skin of a healthy person. Such microemulsions are preferred.

Because in the area of the large sweat glands, which are e.g. exist in the genital area and in the armpits, the skin surface is only weakly acidic (pH 5.5 - 6.5), just there is a reduced defenses against germs or bacteria, so that it is particularly advantageous in the context of the invention, if the pH of the fabric treatment agent is not greater than pH 5.5 measured at a temperature of 20 ° C on a 1% aqueous solution of the fabric treatment agent.

Another benefit of this pH range for the fabric treatment agent is related to personal hygiene. If the body is washed with soap, the pH of the washed skin increases to about 9, so that the natural protective coat of the skin is massively disturbed. Their self-regulatory powers allow the skin to re-adjust the acidic pH. However, this process can take up to 3 hours, but usually at least 30 minutes. This differs from skin type to skin type and runs z. B. in infants very slowly.

Particularly advantageous is such a pH range in terms of a group of people with particularly sensitive skin, such as babies or toddlers, or a group of people with existing skin problems, such. B. Allergy sufferers. For example, baby skin is significantly thinner than the skin of an adult human. Since the sebum production of the baby skin is significantly reduced, it has only an incomplete barrier function and a very thin hydrolipid film. There is a particular need here for the textile treatment agents according to the invention.

The advantage of the textile treatment agent having a pH as described above is that textiles treated therewith are able to assist the skin's self-regulating powers in terms of its alkali neutralizing ability, in that the textile contacting skin such as e.g. , As a Abtrockentuch or underwear, has a skin-optimal pH.

In this way, the textile treatment agent or the laundry treated with it supports the natural skin flora of humans.

It is furthermore particularly advantageous if the agents to be used according to the invention are dye-free, although colorant-containing agents, such as are commercially available, can lead to slightly irritated skin only in extremely rare exceptional cases, if appropriate, for particularly sensitive people. Therefore, in order to further reduce the hypothetical potential for incompatibility from this side, it is therefore advantageous to minimize the dye content in the compositions to be used according to the invention, at best up to dye-free purity. If dyes are desired, for example, for optical reasons, the usual colorants are used. The colorant content is preferably below 0.002% by weight of the composition, in particular it is 0% by weight.

Thus, if the microemulsion is free of dye, then it is an advantageous microemulsion, accordingly, the use of these advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

Likewise, microemulsions containing only natural flavors, but preferably no additional fragrances or other perfume oils, are of great advantage, so that the use of such microemulsions represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

This is particularly advantageous since certain fragrances or perfume oils which are not skin-healing, skin-care and / or skin-protecting active substances in the sense of the invention and natural aromas, if only very small groups of people with extremely sensitive skin and predisposition, are in very good Rarely, minor, subjectively perceived intolerance reactions which would counteract the present invention.

Although the compositions according to the invention are preferably free of the aforementioned fragrances, it may be desirable to produce a particularly attractive fragrance which can not be generated solely from the active compounds according to the invention and their inherent odor effects. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment it is possible to add a small amount of such fragrances, which are not active substances according to the invention, to the respective agents.

The usual fragrances or perfume oils include e.g. the synthetic products of the ester type, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols and hydrocarbons. Fragrance compounds of the ester type are known e.g. Benzyl acetate, phenoxyethyl isobutyrate, p-tert-butylcyclohexyl acetate, linalyl acetate, dimethylbenzyl carbinyl acetate, phenylethyl acetate, linalyl benzoate, benzyl formate, ethylmethylphenyl glycinate, allyl cyclohexyl propionate, styrallyl propionate and benzyl salicylate. The ethers include, for example, benzyl ethyl ether to the aldehydes z. B. the linear alkanals with 8-18 C-atoms, citral, citronellal, citronellyloxyacetaldehyde, cyclamen aldehyde, hydroxycitronellal, lilial and bourgeonal, to the ketones z. As the Jonone, α-isomethylionone and methyl cedrylketone to the alcohols anethole, citronellol, eugenol, geraniol, linalool, phenylethyl alcohol and terpineol, the hydrocarbons include mainly the terpenes such as limonene and pinene. Perfume oils may also contain natural fragrance mixtures such as are available from vegetable sources, e.g. Pine oil, muscatel, clove oil, cinnamon leaf oil, lime blossom oil, juniper berry oil, vetiver oil, galbanum oil and labdanum oil as well as orange blossom oil, orange peel oil.

When the microemulsion contains an ironing facilitator and / or wrinkle reducing agent, such a microemulsion is considered to be advantageous, and likewise, therefore, the use of these microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. The advantage of this embodiment is that can be reduced by the Bügelerleichterungs- and crease reduction effect, the ironing time, so that the valuable ingredients of the textile treatment agent according to the invention are not exposed to excessive thermal stress by ironing, and thus retain their full effectiveness.

The microemulsions may advantageously contain a deodorizing agent, so that the use of such microemulsion is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

It should be noted that many of the already named oils, especially essential oils, as such also have a deodorizing effect. The particular advantage of adding one or more deodorizing agents to the fabric treatment composition of the present invention is that these ingredients, together with the said oils, provide a particularly enhanced, because of synergistic, effect on deodorizing activity. The effect is only in one facet of the covering of evil-smelling or unpleasant odors. In connection with the effect of the agent on the skin, caused by the contact skin / treated textile occurs an additional Effect, which is based on the synergistic interaction of the active substances in the context of the invention with the added deodorizing agent and the self-regulatory forces, so that not only the symptom, the malodor, but the moment triggering this odor is eliminated. These are usually bacteria that are located on the skin or in hair or pubic hair in varying numbers. These bacteria can proteins and fats, z. B. from body sweat, decompose into malodorous sulfur compounds. These bacteria are effectively counteracted by the synergistic interaction of these factors.

At the same time, the self-regulating powers of the skin are stimulated and trained.

A microemulsion which contains a terpene-containing plant extract, preferably an extract of plant parts of one or more plants of the family Myrtacea, the extract advantageously being tea tree oil, the extract being present in particular in an amount of at least 0.006% by weight. is contained in the microemulsion to a maximum of 1 wt .-%, can be regarded as particularly advantageous, so that it is therefore also in the use of such microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

The tea tree oil is of great advantage for the subject invention because it combines germicidal, antiseptic, fungicidal, antiviral, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, scarring-promoting effects in itself.

If the microemulsion contains at least 0.03% by weight, advantageously 0.04 to 4% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 1.5% by weight, in particular 0.05 to 1% by weight of natural antioxidants, in particular selected from terpene-containing antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A, selenium and / or their derivatives or mixtures thereof, this is considered to be advantageous in the context of this invention, so that it is therefore also when using sol-cher microemulsions um a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is. The addition of the antioxidant contributes very well to the product stability. The Applicant has found that this also relates to the stability of the oil which is on the fibers of the treated textile after the textile treatment. If a microemulsion according to the invention contains no antioxidants, after 4 weeks storage of the treated textile, the content of C-18: 2 (linoleic acid, measured via the methyl ester) is about half of the original value. At a level of 0.2% by weight of tocopherol in the microemulsion, on the other hand, there is no decrease in the content of C-18: 2 on the fiber.

As an antioxidant in particular the vitamin E (collective name for chemical compounds from the group of tocopherols) is predestined. Surprisingly, it has been found that textiles which have been treated with a vitamin E-containing microemulsion according to the invention are advantageous in terms of the prevention of body odor as a result of sweat secretion. It could be found that the secreted sweat does not cause a fetus, which is very beneficial. This freedom from fetid smells affects both the textile and the skin. Fetid odors are thus counteracted without suppressing the sweating itself. Advantageously, the vitamin E is contained in amounts of less than 1.5 wt .-%.

The use of microemulsions according to the invention containing an acidic buffer, preferably an organic buffer system, which preferably buffers the microemulsion and the textile treatment bath in a pH range of 2 to 6.5, in particular 3 to 5.5, likewise constitutes a preferred embodiment of the invention The advantage of the acidic buffer is that it contributes to the stability of the microemulsion.

Preferably, the buffer system acids, in particular selected from formic acid citric acid, acetic acid, sulfonic acid - thereby advantageously sulfamic acid - and / or derivatives thereof or mixtures thereof.

If the buffer system contains at least one salt of the acid (s) contained in the buffer system, preferably sodium citrate, this is likewise preferred.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the buffer system contains polyacrylates, polymethacrylates and / or copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid, preferably having a molecular weight of 2,000 to 10,000.

A microemulsion which additionally contains nonaqueous solvents, preferably hydroxy derivatives of aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons, in particular ethanol, advantageously in amounts greater than 0.5% by weight, very advantageously in amounts greater than 1% by weight, but with a maximum Amount of 10 wt .-%, preferably 7.5 wt .-%, in particular 4 wt .-% is not exceeded, is considered in the context of this invention as advantageous so that it is therefore also in the use of such microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

If formic acid and / or salts thereof are preferably present in amounts of less than 0.15% by weight, advantageously less than 0.1% by weight, in particular less than 0.075% by weight, this is advantageous, and the use of such microemulsions is just as advantageous. which represents a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. Formic acid can further increase the stability of the microemulsion substantially in terms of preservation.

If lactic acid and / or salts thereof are present in the microemulsion, preferably in amounts of less than 5% by weight, advantageously less than 3% by weight, in particular less than 2% by weight, this is advantageous because lactic acid and / or its salts skin functionally effective. Lactic acid is an important and moisture-binding component of an intact epidermis. Supplied from the outside, lactic acid can even improve the water-binding capacity of the skin. The skin-smoothing properties of lactic acid also have a positive influence on our skin texture. Since lactic acid supports the detachment of dander (keratolysis) it ensures a smooth, even skin. This property is especially important for the care of dry, flaky skin. Accordingly, the use of such microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the microemulsions further contain preservatives which are preferably added at low concentrations, advantageously below 0.5% by weight, to retard microbial spoilage. For example, salicylic acid, benzoic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, propionic acid, acetic acid, fumaric acid and / or sorbic acid and / or their derivatives and / or salts may serve as preservatives. In particular, salicylic acid, sorbic acid, its derivatives and / or salts are suitable.

Microemulsions in which such active ingredients are contained, which are beneficial to the fiber elasticity, shape retention and tear resistance of the textile fibers, in particular aminosiloxanes, cellulose derivatives and / or carboxylic esters, are very advantageous in the overall context of the invention, so that the use of such microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment represents the invention.

The viscosity of the microemulsions can be determined by standard methods (for example Brookfield Viscometer LVT-II at DV II at 22 ° C, 20 rpm, spindle 3) are measured and is in a range of 5 to 300 mPas.

The viscosity of the microemulsion to be used according to the invention is of particular interest with regard to the stability of the microemulsion, in particular microemulsions having viscosities in the range of preferably between 20 and 180 mPas and in particular between 25 and 120 mPas, measured with the Brookfield viscometer DV II at 22 ° C, 20 rpm, spindle 3, are particularly advantageous. Consequently, the use of these microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. Such microemulsions can advantageously also be flushed into the washing machine very well.

Advantageously, in the case of the abovementioned viscosities, the microemulsions according to the invention not only have good stability, but also good dispersibility in water.

The Applicant has found that, for good dispensability of a post-treatment agent (e.g., fabric softener), high viscosity values of the post-treatment agent are detrimental to the dispensing performance. For good Einspülbarkeit a viscosity value of the post-treatment agent of preferably 300 mPAs should not be exceeded. This is due to the fact that when rinsing in rinsing agents, such. Fabric softener (e.g., softener) in the washing machine in general, the so-called "siphon effect" is used. The rinse aid, which should come to the laundry at the end of the washing, is liquid and would therefore run into the machine immediately at the beginning. Therefore, it usually comes in a separate compartment with a kink tube, a "siphon". At the end of the washing process, when the rinse aid is needed, the machine simply adds some water and the rinse aid then runs by itself through the tube into the washer. However, if the rinse aid is too viscous, then the rinse aid can not drain off completely, since the flowing out of the chamber water column (mixture of zufliesendem water and rinse) breaks off.

At viscosities below 300 mPas, however, normal emulsions with droplet sizes greater than 500 nm or not even stable in the micrometer range. Such normal emulsions require viscosities of more than 500 mPas at 22 ° C to be sufficiently stable in the usual temperature range of 10 to 45 ° C. Furthermore, a normal emulsion is too hydrophobic.

The flushability of normal emulsions having a viscosity of 300 mPas is, however, at best sufficient in comparison to the microemulsions according to the invention, these emulsions being unstable to this effect. The flushability of normal emulsions, which are stable, d. H. have a viscosity of over 500 mPas, however, is deficient to insufficient. Such adverse emulsions must then be given by the consumer in a separate container intended for use directly in the drum.

In comparison, the Applicant has now found that the Einspülbarkeit of rinse aid from the designated dispensing compartment of a washing machine in the microemulsions according to the invention, which are also stable and well distributed in water, is very good.

Also of interest for the flushability and stability of the microemulsion is its density, wherein a microemulsion having a density in the range 0.900 to 1.050 g / cm ³ , preferably between 0.950 and 1.030 g / cm ³ and in particular between 0.980 and 1.015 g / cm ³ at 22 ° C can be considered very beneficial. As a result, the use of such microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

With regard to the skin-functional aspect of the invention, the use of corresponding silicones in the microemulsion is also important. A microemulsion containing a silicone, advantageously a substantially linear di- (C _1-5 ) alkylpolysiloxane or (C _1-5 ) alkylarylpolysiloxane, most preferably polydimethylsiloxane, wherein the silicone is preferably present in amounts up to 10% by weight, especially in amounts of 0.1 to 5 wt .-% is contained in the microemulsion, is to be evaluated as advantageous against this background, and accordingly, the use of such advantageous microemulsions is a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the microemulsions further contain protein (s) such as soy proteins, wheat proteins, potato proteins, pea proteins, rice proteins, silk proteins, keratin, actin, elastin, albumins, globulins, (milk) casein or their derivatives, and / or protein hydrolysates, such as collagen. These attract well to the fibers during textile treatment, thereby protecting the fibers and can also be used by them on the fibers Skin and thereby on the skin and protect it, as well as improve the physical properties of the skin and its moisture retention capacity. Protein (derivative) s and / or protein hydrolysates are in a preferred embodiment in a total amount of preferably 0.1 to 25 wt .-%, advantageously 1 to 20 wt .-%, more preferably 1.5 to 15 parts by weight. %, more preferably 2 to 10 wt .-%, in particular in a total amount to 5 wt .-%, based on the total microemulsion included.

According to a preferred embodiment, the microemulsions further contain tea extracts, in particular tea extract from green tea, in a total amount of preferably 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, advantageously 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, in particular 0.1 to 3 Wt .-%, based on the total microemulsion.

In a further embodiment, the microemulsions to be used according to the invention comprise one or more of all those active substances which have been used in the EP 0 789 070 A1 are active substances from the groups of waxes, the hydrophobic plant extracts, certain hydrocarbons, higher fatty acids and esters, essential oils, lipids, vitamins, sunscreens, phospholipids, derivatives of alpha-hydroxy acids and / or mixtures of aforementioned components each in the scope mentioned there and beyond, wherein preferably less than 4 wt .-% of quaternary ammonium compounds or other relevant fabric softening compounds are included. The substantial absence of relevant fabric softening compounds in the just mentioned context is advantageous if a possible reduction of the fiber suction capacity is to be excluded.

A further subject of the invention is a textile aftertreatment agent which comprises at least the components a) antioxidant, b) at least one lipophilic cationic emulsifier, c) at least one hydrophilic emulsifier, which is ethoxylated fatty alcohol, and d) natural oils, preferably oils with skin-protecting and / or or skin care and / or skin-healing properties, wherein the agent is present as a microemulsion having a droplet size d ₅₀ below 500 nm and a viscosity in the range of 5 to 300 mPas (measured with the Brookfield viscometer DV II at 22 ° C, 20 rpm Spindle 3), wherein it contains 50 to 90 wt .-% water, based on the total agent, wherein it preferably contains less than 5 wt .-% of cationic surfactants.

Textile aftertreatment agents having viscosities in the range of preferably from 20 to 180 mPas, in particular from 25 to 120 mPas represent a preferred embodiment of the invention. These low viscosities are particularly advantageous with regard to the aftertreatment agents (eg fabric softeners), as described above in connection with US Pat "Suction lifters" could already be shown.

With regard to the nature of the oils and of the emulsifiers, reference is made to the preceding description, to which reference is hereby made. In particular, the oils listed there by name can be used with great advantage.

Also with respect to other ingredients, such as of the essential oils, reference is expressly made to the preceding description with regard to the microemulsions to be used according to the invention.

Such an agent is advantageous for many reasons. It is particularly advantageous that a very good flushability from the dispensing compartment of a washing machine of the agent is made possible by the dosage form of the microemulsion and the specific droplet size. In this case, a good stability of the emulsion is ensured. In addition, the good dispersibility of the agent already comes in cold water. Also particularly advantageous is the high ecological compatibility of the agent, which, among other things, stems from the fact that preferably an upper limit of 5% by weight of cationic surfactant is not exceeded. Cationic surfactants commonly used are quaternary ammonium compounds. Such ammonium compounds, like all N-containing compounds, even though they can now be biologically degraded better, still represent a polluting factor. Due to its composition, however, the composition according to the invention makes it possible to achieve a good softness performance which makes it possible to reduce the cationic surfactant content to less than 5% by weight. Despite the small amount of cationic surfactant, the softness performance is still good. It is even comparable to that of conventional fabric softeners, which usually have quite high levels of cationic surfactant, for example, 15-20 wt .-% cationic surfactant. The cationic surfactant can simultaneously serve as a cationic, preferably lipophilic emulsifier or co-emulsifier.

In sum, the composition according to the invention is a very skin and environmentally friendly product, which has a good textile softening effect and which is able to serve the skin also by the fact that the oils contained in a textile treatment process in one Washing machine at least partially raise the textile drum located in the washing drum and are given at least partially in contact of these tissues with human skin from the textile fabric to the skin and thereby provide at least a cosmetic or sensory benefit. The fact that the agent according to the invention is in the form of a stable microemulsion, the good flushability of the agent is ensured in the washing machine. This good flushability of the agent is a not to be underestimated advantage. The same applies to the good dispersibility of the agent in water.

In a preferred embodiment, the agents contain as antioxidants only natural antioxidants, in particular selected from terpene-containing antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A and / or selenium and / or derivatives thereof, vitamin E being the most preferred. With regard to the antioxidants, the statements already made above also apply here, to which reference is made here.

In a preferred embodiment, the agents contain an acid buffer, preferably an organic buffer system, in particular citric acid and / or citrate (s). Such agents, which contain an acidic buffer, which preferably buffers the microemulsion and the textile treatment bath in a pH range of 2 to 6.5, in particular 3 to 5.5, likewise constitute a preferred embodiment of the invention referenced above and referenced.

In a preferred embodiment, the compositions comprise cationic polymer, preferably in the form of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds, in particular selected from copolymers of quaternized vinylimidazole and vinylpyrrolidone, copolymers of vinylcaprolactam, vinylpyrrolidone and quaternized vinylimidazole and / or quaternized copolymers from vinyl pyrrolidone and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylates. Here, too, reference is made in particular to the statements made above and reference is made to this.

The term textile treatment bath is understood here to mean, in particular, the washing liquid with which the textile comes into contact and stands during the treatment in an automatic washing machine.

A preferred embodiment is also present when the buffer system contains acid, preferably selected from formic acid citric acid, acetic acid, sulfonic acid - advantageously sulfamic acid - and / or derivatives thereof or mixtures thereof.

If the buffer system contains at least one salt of the acid (s) contained in the buffer system, preferably sodium citrate, then a preferred embodiment is also present.

Also, agents having a buffer system containing polyacrylates, polymethacrylates and / or copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid, preferably having a molecular weight of 2,000 to 10,000, are a preferred embodiment.

An inventive composition in which a total amount of cationic surfactant of 4 wt .-%, preferably of 3 wt .-%, advantageously of 2.5 wt .-%, in particular of 2 wt .-% is not exceeded, therefore, a preferred embodiment of the invention.

A composition according to the invention which contains fatty acids, preferably in the range from 2 to 4% by weight, constitutes a preferred embodiment of the invention. As has already been described above, the fatty acids can stabilize the agent even further and, in addition, raise the oils Support the textile, so that almost all the oil contained can be applied to the textile. Here, too, reference is made in particular to the statements made above and reference is made to this.

An inventive agent containing moisturizing factors, such as. As glycerol or polyaspartic acid, represents a preferred embodiment of the invention. As already described above, these substances, which have already been described above, support the skin balance and prevent drying of the skin. Here too Reference is made in particular to the statements made above and referred to.

Accordingly, a very preferred textile aftertreatment agent according to the invention contains, in addition to the components a) antioxidant, b) lipophilic emulsifier, c) hydrophilic emulsifier and d) oils also e) fatty acid (s) and f) an acidic buffer containing the agent and also the textile treatment bath in a pH range of advantageously from 2 to 6.5, preferably from 3 to 5.5 buffers, and optionally g) moisturizing factor (s) and optionally other components which have been listed in the course of this description, such as volatile oil. With regard to these further components, reference should be made in particular to the statements made above and reference is made thereto.

According to a preferred embodiment, the agents further contain protein (s) e, e.g. Soy proteins, wheat proteins, potato proteins, pea proteins, rice proteins, silk proteins, keratin, actin, elastin, albumins, globulins, (milk) casein or their derivatives, and / or protein hydrolysates, e.g. Collages. These attract well to the fibers during the textile treatment, thereby protecting the fibers and can be released from these to the skin and thereby raise the skin and then protect it, and improve the physical properties of the skin and its moisture retention. Protein (derivative) s and / or protein hydrolysates are in a preferred embodiment in a total amount of preferably 0.1 to 25 wt .-%, advantageously 1 to 20 wt .-%, more preferably 1.5 to 15 parts by weight. %, more preferably 2 to 10 wt .-%, in particular in a total amount to 5 wt .-%, based on the total agent included.

According to a preferred embodiment, the microemulsions further contain tea extracts, in particular tea extract from green tea, in a total amount of preferably 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, advantageously 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, in particular 0.1 to 3 Wt .-%, based on the total microemulsion.

It is also possible to use an agent according to the invention as liquid detergent.

The possible liquid detergent may contain, in addition to the previously described components of the textile aftertreatment agent or of the microemulsion, all such components which are expedient and / or customary for a liquid detergent. These components are well known to those skilled in the art. If necessary, he can also take you from relevant reviews, z. B. E. Smulders, "Laundry Detergents", Wiley-VCH, 2nd edition, 2001 , Likewise, the aftertreatment agent according to the invention, in particular as a fabric softener or rinse aid, can contain all such components which are expedient and / or customary for such a composition.

Liquid detergents advantageously contain surfactant (s), wherein anionic, nonionic, cationic and / or amphoteric surfactants can be used. From an application point of view, preference is given to mixtures of anionic and nonionic surfactants. The total surfactant content of the liquid detergent is preferably below 40% by weight and more preferably below 35% by weight, based on the total liquid detergent.

The nonionic surfactants used in the liquid detergents are preferably alkoxylated, advantageously ethoxylated, especially primary alcohols having preferably 8 to 18 carbon atoms and an average of 1 to 12 moles of ethylene oxide (EO) per mole of alcohol, in which the alcohol radical is linear or preferably 2- Position may be methyl branched or contain linear and methyl-branched radicals in the mixture, as they are usually present in Oxoalkoholresten. In particular, however, alcohol ethoxylates with linear radicals of alcohols of native origin having 12 to 18 carbon atoms, for example of coconut, palm, tallow or oleyl alcohol, and on average 2 to 8 EO per mole of alcohol are preferred. The preferred ethoxylated alcohols include, for example, C _12-14 alcohols with 3 EO, 4 EO or 7 EO, C _9-11 alcohols with 7 EO, C _13-15 alcohols with 3 EO, 5 EO, 7 EO or 8 EO, C _12-18 -alcohols with 3 EO, 5 EO or 7 EO and mixtures of these, such as mixtures of C _12-14 -alcohol with 3 EO and C _12-18 -alcohol with 7 EO. The degrees of ethoxylation given represent statistical means which, for a particular product, may be an integer or a fractional number. Preferred alcohol ethoxylates have a narrow homolog distribution (narrow range ethoxylates, NRE). In addition to these nonionic surfactants, fatty alcohols with more than 12 EO can also be used. Examples include tallow fatty alcohol with 14 EO, 25 EO, 30 EO or 40 EO. Nonionic surfactants containing EO and PO groups together in the molecule can also be used according to the invention. Here, block copolymers with EO-PO block units or PO-EO block units can be used, but also EO-PO-EO copolymers or PO-EO-PO copolymers. Of course, it is also possible to use mixed alkoxylated nonionic surfactants in which EO and PO units are not distributed in blocks, but randomly are. Such products are available by the simultaneous action of ethylene and propylene oxide on fatty alcohols.

In addition, as further nonionic surfactants and alkyl glycosides of the general formula RO (G) _x can be used in which R is a primary straight-chain or methyl-branched, especially in the 2-position methyl-branched aliphatic radical having 8 to 22, preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms and G is the symbol which represents a glycose unit having 5 or 6 C atoms, preferably glucose. The degree of oligomerization x, which indicates the distribution of monoglycosides and oligoglycosides, is any number between 1 and 10; preferably x is 1.2 to 1.4.

Another class of preferred nonionic surfactants which can be used are alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated or ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, preferably having 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain, especially fatty acid methyl esters, as described for example in Japanese Patent Application JP 58/217598 are described or preferably according to the in the international patent application WO 90/13533 be prepared described methods.

Nonionic surfactants of the amine oxide type, for example N-cocoalkyl-N, N-dimethylamine oxide and N-tallowalkyl-N, N-dihydroxyethylamine oxide, and the fatty acid alkanolamides may also be suitable. The amount of these nonionic surfactants is preferably not more than that of the ethoxylated fatty alcohols, especially not more than half thereof.

in der RCO für einen aliphatischen Acylrest mit 6 bis 22 Kohlenstoffatomen, R¹ für Wasserstoff, einen Alkyl- oder Hydroxyalkylrest mit 1 bis 4 Kohlenstoffatomen und [Z] für einen linearen oder verzweigten Polyhydroxyalkylrest mit 3 bis 10 Kohlenstoffatomen und 3 bis 10 Hydroxylgruppen steht. Bei den Polyhydroxyfettsäureamiden handelt es sich um bekannte Stoffe, die üblicherweise durch reduktive Aminierung eines reduzierenden Zuckers mit Ammoniak, einem Alkylamin oder einem Alkanolamin und nachfolgende Acylierung mit einer Fettsäure, einem Fettsäurealkylester oder einem Fettsäurechlorid erhalten werden können.Further suitable surfactants are polyhydroxy fatty acid amides of the formula (III)

wherein RCO is an aliphatic acyl group having 6 to 22 carbon atoms, R ^{1 is} hydrogen, an alkyl or hydroxyalkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms and [Z] is a linear or branched polyhydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms and 3 to 10 hydroxyl groups. The polyhydroxy fatty acid amides are known substances which can usually be obtained by reductive amination of a reducing sugar with ammonia, an alkylamine or an alkanolamine and subsequent acylation with a fatty acid, a fatty acid alkyl ester or a fatty acid chloride.

in der R für einen linearen oder verzweigten Alkyl- oder Alkenylrest mit 7 bis 12 Kohlenstoffatomen, R¹ für einen linearen, verzweigten oder cyclischen Alkylrest oder einen Arylrest mit 2 bis 8 Kohlenstoffatomen und R² für einen linearen, verzweigten oder cyclischen Alkylrest oder einen Arylrest oder einen Oxy-Alkylrest mit 1 bis 8 Kohlenstoffatomen steht, wobei C_1-4-Alkyl- oder Phenylreste bevorzugt sind und [Z] für einen linearen Polyhydroxyalkylrest steht, dessen Alkylkette mit mindestens zwei Hydroxylgruppen substituiert ist, oder alkoxylierte, vorzugsweise ethoxylierte oder propoxylierte Derivate dieses Restes.The group of polyhydroxy fatty acid amides also includes compounds of the formula (3),

in the R is a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl radical having 7 to 12 carbon atoms, R ^{1 is} a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl radical or an aryl radical having 2 to 8 carbon atoms and R ^{2 is} a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl radical or an aryl radical or an oxyalkyl radical having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, with C _1-4 alkyl or phenyl radicals being preferred and [Z] being a linear polyhydroxyalkyl radical whose alkyl chain is substituted by at least two hydroxyl groups, or alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated or propoxylated Derivatives of this residue.

[Z] is preferably obtained by reductive amination of a sugar, for example glucose, fructose, maltose, lactose, galactose, mannose or xylose. The N-alkoxy- or N-aryloxy-substituted compounds can then, for example, according to the teaching of the international application WO-A-95/07331 be converted by conversion with fatty acid methyl esters in the presence of an alkoxide as catalyst into the desired Polyhydroxyfettsäureamide.

The total content of nonionic surfactants in the case of the liquid detergents is preferably 5 to 30% by weight, preferably 7 to 20% by weight and in particular 9 to 15% by weight, in each case based on the total agent.

Suitable ingredients of liquid detergents are also anionic surfactants. As anionic surfactants, for example, those of the sulfonate type and sulfates are used. The surfactants of the sulfonate type are preferably C _9-13 -alkylbenzenesulfonates, olefinsulfonates, ie mixtures of alkene and hydroxyalkanesulfonates and disulfonates, as are obtained, for example, from C _12-18 -monoolefins having terminal or internal double bonds by sulfonation with gaseous sulfur trioxide and subsequent alkaline or acid hydrolysis of the sulfonation products into consideration. Also suitable are alkanesulfonates which are obtained from C _12-18 alkanes, for example by sulfochlorination or sulfoxidation with subsequent hydrolysis or neutralization. Also suitable are the esters of α-sulfo fatty acids (ester sulfonates), for example the α-sulfonated methyl esters of hydrogenated coconut, palm kernel or tallow fatty acids.

Further suitable anionic surfactants are sulfated fatty acid glycerol esters. Fatty acid glycerol esters are to be understood as meaning the mono-, di- and triesters and mixtures thereof, as obtained in the preparation by esterification of a monoglycerol with 1 to 3 moles of fatty acid or in the transesterification of triglycerides with 0.3 to 2 moles of glycerol. Preferred sulfated fatty acid glycerol esters are the sulfonation products of saturated fatty acids having 6 to 22 carbon atoms, for example caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid or behenic acid.

Alk (en) ylsulfates are the alkali metal salts and in particular the sodium salts of the sulfuric monoesters of C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ fatty alcohols, for example coconut fatty alcohol, tallow fatty alcohol, lauryl, myristyl, cetyl or stearyl alcohol or the C ₁₀ -C ₂₀ oxo alcohols and those half-esters of secondary alcohols of these chain lengths are preferred. Also preferred are alk (en) ylsulfates of said chain length, which contain a synthetic, produced on a petrochemical basis straight-chain alkyl radical, which have an analogous degradation behavior as the adequate compounds based on oleochemical raw materials. Of washing technology interest, the C ₁₂ -C ₁₆ alkyl sulfates and C ₁₂ -C ₁₅ alkyl sulfates and C ₁₄ -C ₁₅ alkyl sulfates are preferred. Also 2,3-alkyl sulfates, which, for example, according to the U.S. Patents 3,234,258 or 5,075,041 are manufactured and can be obtained as commercial products from Shell Oil Company under the name DAN ^®, are suitable anionic surfactants.

The sulfuric acid monoesters of straight-chain or branched C _7-21 -alcohols ethoxylated with from 1 to 6 mol of ethylene oxide, such as 2-methyl-branched C _9-11- alcohols having on average 3.5 mol of ethylene oxide (EO) or C _12-18 . Fatty alcohols with 1 to 4 EO are suitable. Due to their high foaming behavior, they are preferably used only in relatively small amounts, for example in amounts of from 1 to 5% by weight.

Further suitable anionic surfactants are also the salts of alkylsulfosuccinic acid, which are also referred to as sulfosuccinates or as sulfosuccinic acid esters and the monoesters and / or diesters of sulfosuccinic acid with alcohols, preferably fatty alcohols and in particular ethoxylated fatty alcohols. Preferred sulfosuccinates contain C _8-18 fatty alcohol residues or mixtures of these. Particularly preferred sulfosuccinates contain a fatty alcohol residue derived from ethoxylated fatty alcohols, which in themselves constitute nonionic surfactants (see description below). Sulfosuccinates, whose fatty alcohol residues are derived from ethoxylated fatty alcohols with a narrow homolog distribution, are again particularly preferred. Likewise, it is also possible to use alk (en) yl-succinic acid having preferably 8 to 18 carbon atoms in the alk (en) yl chain or salts thereof.

Suitable anionic surfactants may also be soaps. Suitable are saturated and unsaturated fatty acid soaps, such as the salts of lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, (hydrogenated) erucic acid and behenic acid and, in particular, soap mixtures derived from natural fatty acids, for example coconut, palm kernel, olive oil or tallow fatty acids.

The anionic surfactants, including the soaps, may be in the form of their sodium, potassium or ammonium salts and as soluble salts of organic bases, such as mono-, di- or triethanolamine. The anionic surfactants are preferably present in the form of their sodium or potassium salts, in particular in the form of the sodium salts.

The content of possible liquid detergent to anionic surfactants is advantageously from 2 to 30 wt .-%, preferably 4 to 25 wt .-% and in particular 5 to 22 wt .-%, each based on the total agent. It is particularly preferred for the amount of fatty acid soap to be at least 2% by weight and more preferably at least 4% by weight and especially preferably at least 6% by weight.

In addition to the ingredients mentioned may contain other ingredients that further improve the performance and / or aesthetic properties of the agent on. In the context of the present invention, preferred agents may additionally comprise one or more substances from the group of builders, bleaches, bleach activators, enzymes, electrolytes, nonaqueous solvents, pH adjusters, perfumes, perfume carriers, fluorescers, dyes, hydrotopes, foam inhibitors, silicone oils, antiredeposition agents , optical brighteners, grayness inhibitors, anti-shrinkage agents, anti-wrinkling agents, color transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial agents, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, ironing aids, repellents and impregnating agents, swelling and anti-slip agents and UV absorbers.

Builders which may be present in the liquid detergents are, in particular, silicates, aluminum silicates (in particular zeolites), carbonates, salts of organic di- and polycarboxylic acids and mixtures of these substances.

Suitable crystalline layered sodium silicates have the general formula NaMSi _x O _{2x + 1} .H ₂ O, where M is sodium or hydrogen, x is a number from 1.9 to 4 and y is a number from 0 to 20 and preferred values for x 2, 3 or 4 are. Such crystalline sheet silicates are described, for example, in the European patent application EP-A-0 164 514 described. Preferred crystalline Phyllosilicates of the formula given are those in which M is sodium and x takes the values 2 or 3. In particular, both β- and δ-sodium disilicates Na ₂ Si ₂ O ₅ · yH ₂ O are preferred, wherein β-sodium disilicate can be obtained, for example, by the process described in International Patent Application WO-A-91/08171 is described.

It is also possible to use amorphous sodium silicates with a Na ₂ O: SiO ₂ modulus of from 1: 2 to 1: 3.3, preferably from 1: 2 to 1: 2.8 and in particular from 1: 2 to 1: 2.6, which Delayed and have secondary washing properties. The dissolution delay compared with conventional amorphous sodium silicates may have been caused in various ways, for example by surface treatment, compounding, compaction / densification or by overdrying. In the context of this invention, the term "amorphous" is also understood to mean "X-ray amorphous". This means that the silicates do not yield sharp X-ray reflections typical of crystalline substances in X-ray diffraction experiments, but at most one or more maxima of the scattered X-rays which have a width of several degrees of diffraction angle. However, it may well even lead to particularly good builder properties if the silicate particles provide blurred or even sharp diffraction maxima in electron diffraction experiments. This is to be interpreted as meaning that the products have microcrystalline regions of size 10 to a few hundred nm, with values of up to a maximum of 50 nm and in particular up to a maximum of 20 nm being preferred. Such so-called X-ray amorphous silicates, which likewise have a dissolution delay compared to the conventional water glasses, are described, for example, in the German patent application DE-A-44 00 024 described. Particularly preferred are compacted / compacted amorphous silicates, compounded amorphous silicates and overdried X-ray amorphous silicates.

The finely crystalline, synthetic and bound water-containing zeolite used is preferably zeolite A and / or P. As zeolite P, zeolite ^MAP® (commercial product from Crosfield) is particularly preferred. Also suitable, however, are zeolite X and mixtures of A, X and / or P. Commercially available and preferably usable in the context of the present invention is, for example, a cocrystal of zeolite X and zeolite A (about 80% by weight of zeolite X) which is sold by SASOL under the brand name VEGOBOND AX ^® and by the formula),

nNa ₂ O • (1-n) K ₂ O • Al ₂ O ₃ • (2-2.5) SiO ₂ • (3.5-5.5) H ₂ O

n = 0.90 - 1.0

can be described. The zeolite can be used as a spray-dried powder or else as undried, still moist, stabilized suspension of its preparation. In the event that the zeolite is used as a suspension, it may contain minor additions of nonionic surfactants as stabilizers, for example 1 to 3 wt .-%, based on zeolite, of ethoxylated C ₁₂ -C ₁₈ fatty alcohols having 2 to 5 ethylene oxide groups , C ₁₂ -C ₁₄ fatty alcohols having 4 to 5 ethylene oxide groups or ethoxylated isotridecanols. Suitable zeolites have an average particle size of less than 10 μm (volume distribution, measuring method: Coulter Counter) and preferably contain 18 to 22% by weight, in particular 20 to 22% by weight, of bound water.

Of course, a use of the well-known phosphates as builders is possible, unless such use should not be avoided for environmental reasons. Particularly suitable are the sodium salts of orthophosphates, pyrophosphates and in particular tripolyphosphates.

Among the compounds serving as bleaches in water H ₂ O ₂ , sodium perborate tetrahydrate and sodium perborate monohydrate are of particular importance. Other useful bleaching agents are, for example, sodium percarbonate, peroxypyrophosphates, citrate perhydrates and H ₂ O ₂ -producing peracidic salts or peracids, such as perbenzoates, peroxophthalates, diperazelaic acid, phthaloiminoperacid or diperdodecanedioic acid.

In order to achieve an improved bleaching effect when washing at temperatures of 60 ° C and below, bleach activators can be incorporated into the detergents. As bleach activators, it is possible to use compounds which, under perhydrolysis conditions, give aliphatic peroxycarboxylic acids having preferably 1 to 10 C atoms, in particular 2 to 4 C atoms, and / or optionally substituted perbenzoic acid. Suitable substances are those which carry O- and / or N-acyl groups of the stated C atom number and / or optionally substituted benzoyl groups. Preference is given to polyacylated alkylenediamines, in particular tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), acylated triazine derivatives, in particular 1,5-diacetyl-2,4-dioxohexahydro-1,3,5-triazine (DADHT), acylated glycolurils, in particular tetraacetylglycoluril (TAGU), N- Acylimides, in particular N-nonanoylsuccinimide (NOSI), acylated phenolsulfonates, in particular n-nonanoyl or isononanoyloxybenzenesulfonate (n- or iso-NOBS), carboxylic anhydrides, in particular phthalic anhydride, acylated polyhydric alcohols, in particular triacetin, ethylene glycol diacetate and 2,5-diacetoxy- 2,5-dihydrofuran.

In addition to or in place of the conventional bleach activators, so-called bleach catalysts can also be incorporated into the liquid detergents. These substances are to bleach-enhancing transition metal salts or transition metal complexes such as Mn, Fe, Co, Ru - or Mo-salene complexes or -carbonylkomplexe. Mn, Fe, Co, Ru, Mo, Ti, V and Cu complexes with nitrogen-containing tripod ligands and Co, Fe, Cu and Ru ammine complexes can also be used as bleach catalysts.

Particularly suitable enzymes are those from the classes of hydrolases such as the proteases, esterases, lipases or lipolytic enzymes, amylases, cellulases or other glycosyl hydrolases and mixtures of the enzymes mentioned. All of these hydrolases in the wash contribute to the removal of stains such as proteinaceous, greasy or starchy stains and graying. In addition, cellulases and other glycosyl hydrolases may contribute to color retention and to enhancing the softness of the fabric by removing pilling and microfibrils. Oxireductases can also be used for bleaching or inhibiting color transfer. Particularly suitable are bacterial strains or fungi such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Streptomyceus griseus and Humicola insolens derived enzymatic agents. Preferably, subtilisin-type proteases and in particular proteases derived from Bacillus lentus are used. In this case, enzyme mixtures, for example from protease and amylase or protease and lipase or lipolytic enzymes or protease and cellulase or from cellulase and lipase or lipolytic enzymes or from protease, amylase and lipase or lipolytic enzymes or protease, lipase or lipolytic enzymes and cellulase, but in particular protease and / or lipase-containing mixtures or mixtures with lipolytic enzymes of particular interest. Examples of such lipolytic enzymes are the known cutinases. Peroxidases or oxidases have also proved suitable in some cases. Suitable amylases include in particular α-amylases, iso-amylases, pullulanases and pectinases. As cellulases are preferably cellobiohydrolases, endoglucanases and β-glucosidases, which are also called cellobiases, or mixtures thereof used. Since different cellulase types differ by their CMCase and avicelase activities, the desired activities can be set by targeted mixtures of the cellulases.

The enzymes may be adsorbed to carriers to protect against premature degradation. The proportion of enzymes, enzyme mixtures or enzyme granules may be, for example, about 0.1 to 5 wt .-%, preferably 0.12 to about 2.5 wt .-%.

As electrolytes from the group of inorganic salts, a wide number of different salts can be used. Preferred cations are the alkali and alkaline earth metals, preferred anions are the halides and sulfates. From a manufacturing point of view, the use of NaCl or MgCl ₂ in the agents is preferred. The proportion of electrolytes in the agents is usually 0.5 to 5 wt .-%.

Non-aqueous solvents that can be used in the liquid detergents, for example, from the group of monohydric or polyhydric alcohols, alkanolamines or glycol ethers, provided that they are miscible in the specified concentration range with water. Preferably, the solvents are selected from ethanol, n- or i-propanol, butanols, glycol, propane or butanediol, glycerol, diglycol, propyl or butyl diglycol, hexylene glycol, ethylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol propyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether , Diethylene glycol ethyl ether, propylene glycol methyl, ethyl or propyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl or ethyl ether, diisopropylene glycol monomethyl or ethyl ether, methoxy, ethoxy or butoxy triglycol, 1-butoxyethoxy-2-propanol, 3-methyl-3-methoxybutanol , Propylene glycol t-butyl ether and mixtures of these solvents. Non-aqueous solvents may be used in the liquid detergents in amounts preferably between 0.5 and 15 wt .-%, but preferably below 12 wt .-% and in particular below 9 wt .-%.

Suitable foam inhibitors which can be used in the liquid detergents are, for example, soaps, paraffins or silicone oils, which may optionally be applied to support materials. Suitable anti-redeposition agents, which are also referred to as "soil repellents", are, for example, nonionic cellulose ethers such as methylcellulose and methylhydroxypropylcellulose with a proportion of methoxy groups of 15 to 30% by weight and of hydroxypropyl groups of 1 to 15% by weight, based in each case on nonionic cellulose ethers and the known from the prior art polymers of phthalic acid and / or terephthalic acid or derivatives thereof, in particular polymers of ethylene terephthalates and / or polyethylene glycol terephthalates or anionic and / or nonionic modified derivatives thereof. Especially preferred of these are the sulfonated derivatives of the phthalic and terephthalic acid polymers.

Optical brighteners (so-called "whiteners") can be added to the liquid detergents in order to eliminate graying and yellowing of the treated textile fabrics. These fabrics impinge on the fiber and cause whitening and bleaching by transforming invisible ultraviolet radiation into visible longer wavelength light, emitting the ultraviolet light absorbed from the sunlight as faint bluish fluorescence, and pure with the yellowness of the grayed or yellowed wash White results. Suitable compounds are derived, for example, from the substance classes of 4,4'-diamino-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonic acids (Flavonsäuren), 4,4'-distyryl-biphenylene, Methylumbelliferone, coumarins, Dihydrochinolinone, 1,3-Diarylpyrazoline, Naphthalsäureimide, benzoxazole, benzisoxazole and benzimidazole systems and substituted by heterocycles pyrene derivatives. The optical brighteners are usually used in amounts of between 0.03 and 0.3 wt .-%, based on the finished composition.

Grayness inhibitors have the task of keeping the dirt detached from the fiber suspended in the liquor and thus preventing the dirt from being rebuilt. Water-soluble colloids of mostly organic nature are suitable for this purpose, for example glue, gelatine, salts of ether sulfonic acids or cellulose or salts of acidic sulfuric acid esters of cellulose or starch. Also, water-soluble polyamides containing acidic groups are suitable for this purpose. It is also possible to use soluble starch preparations and starch products other than those mentioned above, for example degraded starch, aldehyde starches, etc. Polyvinylpyrrolidone is also useful. However, preference is given to using cellulose ethers such as carboxymethylcellulose (Na salt), methylcellulose, hydroxyalkylcellulose and mixed ethers such as methylhydroxyethylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulose, methylcarboxymethylcellulose and mixtures thereof in amounts of from 0.1 to 5% by weight, based on the compositions.

Since fabrics, particularly rayon, rayon, cotton and blends thereof, can tend to wrinkle because the individual fibers are susceptible to flexing, buckling, squeezing and squeezing across the grain, the compositions may contain synthetic crease inhibitors. These include, for example, synthetic products based on fatty acids, fatty acid esters, fatty acid amides, alkylol esters, -alkylolamides or fatty alcohols, which are usually reacted with ethylene oxide, or products based on lecithin or modified phosphoric acid ester.

For enhanced control of microorganisms, the liquid detergents may contain antimicrobial agents. Depending on the antimicrobial spectrum and mechanism of action, a distinction is made between bacteriostats and bactericides, fungistatics and fungicides, etc. Important substances from these groups are, for example, benzalkonium chlorides, alkylarylsulfonates, halophenols and phenolmercuric acetate, with the compounds according to the invention also being able to dispense entirely with these compounds in particular.

In order to prevent undesirable changes to the liquid detergents and / or the treated fabrics caused by the action of oxygen and other oxidative processes, the compositions may contain further antioxidants. Belong to this class of connection for example, substituted phenols, hydroquinones, catechols and aromatic amines and organic sulfides, polysulfides, dithiocarbamates, phosphites and phosphonates.

Increased comfort may result from the additional use of antistatic agents added to the compositions. Antistatic agents increase the surface conductivity and thus allow an improved drainage of formed charges. External antistatic agents are generally substances with at least one hydrophilic molecule ligand and give a more or less hygroscopic film on the surfaces. These mostly surface-active antistatic agents can be subdivided into nitrogen-containing (amines, amides, quaternary ammonium compounds), phosphorus-containing (phosphoric acid esters) and sulfur-containing (alkyl sulfonates, alkyl sulfates) antistatic agents. External antistatics are for example in the patent applications FR 1,156,513 . GB 873 214 and GB 839,407 described. The lauryl (or stearyl) dimethylbenzylammonium chlorides disclosed herein are useful as antistatics for textile fabrics or as an additive to laundry detergents, with a softening effect being additionally achieved.

To improve the water absorbency, the rewettability of the treated fabrics and to facilitate the ironing of the treated fabrics, for example, silicone derivatives can be used in the liquid detergents. These additionally improve the rinsing behavior of the agents by their foam-inhibiting properties. Preferred silicone derivatives are, for example, polydialkyl or alkylaryl siloxanes in which the alkyl groups have one to five carbon atoms and are completely or partially fluorinated. Preferred silicones are polydimethylsiloxanes, which may optionally be derivatized and are then amino-functional or quaternized or have Si-OH, Si-H and / or Si-Cl bonds. The viscosities of the preferred silicones are in the range between 100 and 100,000 mPas at 25 ° C, wherein the silicones in amounts between 0.2 and 5 wt .-%, based on the total agent can be used.

Finally, the liquid detergents may also contain UV absorbers that wick onto the treated fabrics and improve the lightfastness of the fibers. Compounds having these desired properties include, for example, the non-radiative deactivating compounds and derivatives of benzophenone having substituents in the 2 and / or 4 position. Also suitable are substituted benzotriazoles, phenyl-substituted acrylates (cinnamic acid derivatives) in the 3-position, optionally with cyano groups in the 2-position, salicylates, organic Ni complexes and natural substances such as umbelliferone and the body's own urocanic acid.

In order to avoid the catalyzed by heavy metals decomposition of certain detergent ingredients, substances that complex heavy metals can be used. Suitable heavy metal complexing agents are, for example, the alkali metal salts of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and alkali metal salts of anionic polyelectrolytes such as polymaleates and polysulfonates.

A preferred class of complexing agents are the phosphonates which are present in possible liquid detergents in amounts of from 0.01 to 2.5% by weight, preferably 0.02 to 2% by weight and in particular from 0.03 to 1.5% by weight .-% are included. These preferred compounds include, in particular, organophosphonates, such as, for example, 1-hydroxyethane-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP), aminotri (methylenephosphonic acid) (ATMP), diethylenetriaminepenta (methylenephosphonic acid) (DTPMP or DETPMP) and 2-phosphonobutane-1,2,4 -tricarboxylic acid (PBS-AM), which are mostly used in the form of their ammonium or alkali metal salts.

In addition to these constituents, a composition according to the invention, dispersed particles whose diameter along their greatest spatial extent is 0.01 to 10,000 microns, may contain.

Within the meaning of this invention, particles may be microcapsules as well as granules, compounds and fragrance beads, with microcapsules being preferred.

The term "microcapsule" is understood to mean aggregates which contain at least one solid or liquid core which is enclosed by at least one continuous shell, in particular a shell of polymer (s). These are usually finely dispersed liquid or solid phases coated with film-forming polymers, during the production of which the polymers precipitate on the material to be enveloped after emulsification and coacervation or interfacial polymerization. The microscopic capsules can be dried like powder. Besides mononuclear microcapsules, multinuclear aggregates, also called microspheres, are known, which contain two or more cores distributed in the continuous shell material. Mono- or polynuclear microcapsules can also be enclosed by an additional second, third, etc., sheath. Preferred are mononuclear microcapsules with a continuous shell. The shell may be made of natural, semi-synthetic or synthetic materials. Naturally, shell materials are, for example, gum arabic, agar agar, agarose, maltodextrins, alginic acid or its salts, for example sodium or calcium alginate, fats and fatty acids, cetyl alcohol, collagen, chitosan, lecithins, gelatin, albumin, shellac, polysaccharides, such as starch or dextran , Sucrose and waxes.

Semisynthetic shell materials include chemically modified celluloses, especially cellulose esters and ethers, e.g. Cellulose acetate, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and carboxymethylcellulose, as well as starch derivatives, in particular starch ethers and esters. Synthetic envelope materials are, for example, polymers such as polyacrylates, polyamides, polyvinyl alcohol or polyvinylpyrrolidone.

Inside the microcapsules preferably sensitive, chemically or physically incompatible as well as volatile components (= active ingredients) of the aqueous liquid detergent can be trapped stable storage and transport. In the microcapsules, for example, optical brighteners, surfactants, complexing agents, bleaching agents, bleach activators, dyes and fragrances, antioxidants, builders, enzymes, enzyme stabilizers, antimicrobial agents, grayness inhibitors, anti redeposition agents, pH adjusters, electrolytes, foam inhibitors and UV absorbers are located. In addition to the ingredients not mentioned above as ingredients of the aqueous liquid detergents according to the invention, the microcapsules may contain, for example, cationic surfactants, vitamins, proteins, preservatives, detergency boosters or pearlescing agents. The fillings of the microcapsules may be solids or liquids in the form of solutions or emulsions or suspensions.

According to a preferred embodiment, the agents contain preservatives, which are preferably added at low concentrations, advantageously below 0.5% by weight, in order to delay microbial spoilage. For example, salicylic acid, benzoic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, propionic acid, acetic acid, fumaric acid and / or sorbic acid and / or their derivatives and / or salts may serve as preservatives. In particular, salicylic acid, sorbic acid, its derivatives and / or salts are suitable.

The microcapsules may have any shape in the production-related framework, but they are preferably approximately spherical. Their diameter along their largest spatial extent, depending on the components contained in their interior and the application between 0.01 microns (not visually recognizable as a capsule) and 10,000 microns. Preference is given to visible microcapsules having a diameter in the range from 100 μm to 7000 μm, in particular from 400 μm to 5000 μm. The microcapsules are accessible by methods known in the art, with coacervation and interfacial polymerization being the most important. As microcapsules, it is possible to use all surfactant-stable microcapsules available on the market, for example the commercial products (the cladding material in each case is indicated) Hallcrest microcapsules (gelatin, gum arabic), Coletica thalaspheres (marine collagen), Lipotec millicapsules (alginic acid, agar-agar), induchem unispheres (lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose); Unicerin C30 (lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ), Kobo Glycospheres (modified starch, fatty acid esters, phospholipids), Softspheres (modified Agar Agar) and Kuhs Probiol Na nospheres (phospholipids).

Alternatively, it is also possible to use particles which have no core-shell structure but in which the active substance is distributed in a matrix of a matrix-forming material. Such particles are also referred to as "speckles".

A preferred matrix-forming material is alginate. To produce alginate-based speckles, an aqueous alginate solution, which also contains the active substance to be enclosed or the active ingredients to be enclosed, is dripped off and then cured in a precipitation bath containing Ca ²⁺ ions or Al ³⁺ ions.

It may be advantageous that the alginate-based speckles are subsequently washed with water and then washed in an aqueous solution with a complexing agent to free Ca ²⁺ ions or free Al ³⁺ ions, which undesirable interactions with ingredients of the liquid detergent , eg the fatty acid soaps, can be washed out. Subsequently, the alginate-based speckles are washed again with water to remove excess complexing agent.

Alternatively, other, matrix-forming materials can be used instead of alginate. Examples of matrix-forming materials include polyethylene glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polymethacrylate, polylysine, poloxamer, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polyethylene oxide, polyethoxyoxazoline, albumin, gelatin, acacia, chitosan, cellulose, dextran, ficoll®, starch, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hyaluronic acid, Carboxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, deacetylated chitosan, dextran sulfate and derivatives of these materials. The matrix formation in these materials takes place for example via gelation, polyanion-polycation interactions or polyelectrolyte-metal ion interactions and is well known in the art as well as the production of particles with these matrix-forming materials.

The particles can be stably dispersed in the aqueous liquid detergent. Stable means that the compositions are stable at room temperature and at 40 ° C for a period of at least 4 weeks, and preferably at least 6 weeks, without the medium creaming or sedimenting.

The release of the active ingredients from the microcapsules or speckles is usually carried out during the application of the agents containing them by destruction of the shell or the matrix due to mechanical, thermal, chemical or enzymatic action. The liquid detergents may contain identical or different particles in amounts of from 0.01 to 10% by weight, in particular from 0.2 to 8% by weight and very preferably from 0.5 to 5% by weight.

Example:

The following composition according to the invention (textile treatment agent AA) consisting of water 55.75% by weight Citric acid * 1 H2O 3.50% by weight Na citrate * 2 H2O 1.75% by weight Dehyquart® AU 56 4.00% by weight Luviquat® Excellence 0.20% by weight Eumulgin® B3 0.25% by weight almond oil 30.00% by weight rosemary oil 0.40% by weight 96% ethanol 4.00% by weight formic acid 0.05% by weight Tocomix® L 70 (antioxidant) 0.10% by weight, was produced.

The composition was prepared with vigorous stirring at about 40 ° C in the form of a dispersion and then three times in succession by a high pressure homogenizer from. Niro Soavi (GEA, type NS 3006) at 500 bar and a temperature of 50 +/- 5 ° C. hazards. After cooling, a stable, readily dispersible in water and well einspülbare from the Einspülkammer a washing machine microemulsion is obtained. The droplet size d ₅₀ is about 120 nm.

Luviquat® Excellence corresponds to 3-methylvinylimidazoline chloride vinylpyrrolidone copolymer ex BASF AG; Dehyquart® AU 56 corresponds to dihydrogenated tallow hydroxyethylammonium methosulfate ex Cognis GmbH &Co.KG; Eumulgin® B3 corresponds to cetylstearyl alcohol + 30-EO (ethylene oxide adduct) ex Cognis GmbH & Co. KG, Tocomix® L 70 corresponds to D-mixed tocopherol in sunflower oil ex Jan Dekker Nederland B.V.

The pH of the composition is 3.5.

The viscosity of the composition (Brookfield, spindle 3, 20 rpm, 23 ° C.) is 48 mPas.

The stability of the composition is good after 1 h, also good after 1 day and good after 1 week. The Einspülbarkeit from the Einspülkammer (compartment for softener) an automatic washing machine is also good, also the dispersibility in water (already at 20 ° C).

Examination and proof of the transfer of components of the textile treatment agent AA of textile treated therewith to the skin:

With 50 ml of the textile treatment agent AA, 3 kg of fine ribbed cotton textiles were washed with water in an automatic washing machine, with the application of the textile treatment agent AA in the final rinse cycle. The textiles treated in this way were air-dried on a leash. The fabric pretreated in this way was then used to examine and demonstrate the transfer of components of the textile treatment agent of textile treated therewith to the skin. This textile is hereinafter referred to as "textile treated".

For comparison, in an automatic washing machine, 3 kg of fine ribbed cotton fabrics were washed with water, with no fabric treatment agent used, that is to say. the textile was only exposed to water. The textiles treated in this way were air-dried on a leash. The textile thus treated is hereinafter referred to as "textile untreated".

For the transfer detection test fields were determined on the forearms of five subjects. The right forearm of the subjects served as a test area for untreated textile, the left forearm as a test area for finished textile.

The test fields each occupied an area of 10 x 15 cm. The fields were given the field names p (proximal), m (medial) and d (distal).

The aim was to detect a measurable re-fatting after a friction or 24-hour wearing time of treated textiles (equivalent to "textile treated") by the determination of triglyceride (C18: 2).

These fields were first individually rubbed off with a gauze cloth soaked with 1 ml of isopropanol, 5 times (orientation value for the untreated situation). After that the degreased surfaces were rubbed off once more 5 times with a gauze cloth and 1 ml isopropanol (starting value for the fat-free situation).

Subsequently, the treatment 1 (rub test). The surface d was rubbed off 20 times with a 10x10 cm textile cloth. The textile cloth for the left arm corresponded in each case to "textile treated", the textile cloth for the right arm corresponded to "textile untreated". Subsequently, all surfaces were rubbed off individually with gauze cloths soaked in 1 ml isopropanol 5 times.

For the treatment 2 (24h wear test) a 5x10cm textile cloth (left arm: "textile treated", right arm: "textile untreated") was applied in each case, so that the test field p was completely covered. After 24 hours, the cloths were removed and the areas p and m were rubbed off with a gauze cloth and 1 ml of isopropanol 5 times.

Processing the samples:

The gauze towels were stirred with 5 ml of isopropanol and internal standard overnight. The organic phase was taken and transesterified with methanol-BF ₃ and analyzed by GC-MS-FID coupling.

The contents of C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester (in μg) can be found in the following tables: Subject 1 left UA right UA Textile treated μg / extract Textile untreated μg / extract Orientation value for the untreated situation p 5 10 m 4 5 d 3 5 Initial value for the fat-free situation p 5 5 m 5 4 d 4 4 Extraction after treatment 1: rub test d 8th 4 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 1 m 5 5 Extraction after treatment 2: 24 h wearing time p 17 4 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 2 after 24 h m 4 5 Test person 2 left UA right UA Textile treated μg / extract Textile untreated μg / extract Orientation value for the untreated situation p 5 3 m 3 3 d 5 4 Initial value for the fat-free situation p 5 4 m 3 4 d 4 5 Extraction after treatment 1: rub test d 8th 4 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 1 m 3 3 Extraction after treatment 2: 24 h wearing time p 5 2 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 2 after 24 h m 3 2 Test person 3 left UA right UA Textile treated μg / extract Textile untreated μg / extract Orientation value for the untreated situation p 8th 5 m 6 5 d 4 4 Initial value for the fat-free situation p 6 5 m 5 4 d 4 3 Extraction after treatment 1: rub test d 7 3 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 1 m 6 5 Extraction after treatment 2: 24 h wearing time p 10 4 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 2 after 24 h m 5 6 Subject 4 left UA right UA Textile treated μg / extract Textile not traded μg / extract Orientation value for the untreated situation p 9 9 m 9 7 d 9 10 Initial value for the fat-free situation p 6 8th m 5 5 d 4 5 Extraction after treatment 1: rub test d 6 3 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 1 m 3 3 Extraction after treatment 2: 24 h wearing time p 11 3 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 2 after 24 h m 6 5 Subject 5 left UA right UA Textile treated μg / extract Textile not traded μg / extract Orientation value for the unmastered situation p 6 6 m 6 6 d 5 6 Initial value for the fat-free situation p 5 4 m 5 4 d 4 5 Extraction after treatment 1: rub test d 8th 3 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 1 m 5 3 Extraction after treatment 2: 24 h wearing time p 17 4 Extraction of the zero value for treatment 2 after 24 h m 5 4

As the tables show, significantly more triglyceride on the skin could be detected in all subjects when the subjects' skin was treated with "treated textile".

• Proband 1: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Reiben mit "behandeltem Textil" um 100 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Reiben mit "unbehandeltem Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 2: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Reiben mit "behandeltem Textil" um 100 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Reiben mit "unbehandeltem Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 3: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Reiben mit "behandeltem Textil" um 133 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Reiben mit "unbehandeltem Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 4: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Reiben mit "behandeltem Textil" um 100 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Reiben mit "unbehandeltem Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 5: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Reiben mit "behandeltem Textil" um 166 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Reiben mit "unbehandeltem Textil" ergibt.

For the rub test, the following picture emerged:

• Panel 1: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester when rubbed with "treated textile" is 100% above the value obtained by rubbing with "untreated textile".
• Panel 2: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester when rubbed with "treated textile" is 100% above the value obtained by rubbing with "untreated textile".
• Panel 3: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester when rubbed with "treated textile" is 133% above the value obtained by rubbing with "untreated textile".
• Subject 4: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester when rubbed with "treated textile" is 100% above the value obtained by rubbing with "untreated textile".
• Panel 5: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester when rubbed with "treated textile" is 166% above the value obtained by rubbing with "untreated textile".

• Proband 1: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Tragen des "behandelten Textil" um 325 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Tragen des "unbehandelten Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 2: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Tragen des "behandelten Textil" um 150 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Tragen des "unbehandelten Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 3: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Tragen des "behandelten Textil" um 150 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Tragen des "unbehandelten Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 4: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Tragen des "behandelten Textil" um 266 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Tragen des "unbehandelten Textil" ergibt.
• Proband 5: Der Gehalt an resultierendem C18:2-Fettsäure-Methylester liegt beim Tragen des "behandelten Textil" um 325 % über dem Wert, der sich durch das Tragen des "unbehandelten Textil" ergibt.

For the "wearing test" I give an even clearer picture:

• Panel 1: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester is 325% greater than that resulting from wearing the "untreated fabric" when wearing the "treated fabric".
• Panel 2: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester is 150% higher than that resulting from wearing the "untreated fabric" when wearing the "treated fabric".
• Panel 3: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester is 150% higher than that resulting from wearing the "untreated fabric" when wearing the "treated fabric".
• Panel 4: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester is 266% higher than that obtained by wearing the "untreated fabric" when wearing the "treated fabric".
• Panel 5: The content of the resulting C18: 2 fatty acid methyl ester is 325% greater than that resulting from wearing the "untreated fabric" when wearing the "treated fabric".

Thus, it is clear that a transfer of components of the textile treatment agent AA takes place from the treated textile to the skin in contact therewith. This transfer is beneficial for the skin, as it is used for skin care.

Furthermore, it is also clear that in the textile treatment in the automatic washing machine, a transfer of components of the textile treatment agent AA takes place on the textile.

Claims (16)

1. Use of a micro-emulsion, which has a viscosity in the range from 5 to 300 mPa.s (as measured with the DV II Brookfield viscosimeter at 22°C, 20 rpm, spindle 3), containing

   a) natural oil(s)
   and

   b) an emulsifier system of at least one hydrophilic emulsifier which is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol, as well as at least one lipophilic cationic emulsifier, as well as

   c) 50 to 90% by weight of water, based on the total agent,

   for treating textiles in the rinsing cycle of an automatic washing machine, the micro-emulsion being washed into the washing space out from the detergent drawer of a commercially available automatic washing machine.
2. The use according to claim 1, characterised in that, the micro-emulsion has a droplet size d₅₀ of less than 500 nm.
3. The use according to any of claims 1 to 2, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains a cationic polymer, preferably in amounts less than 10% by weight, advantageously less than 5% by weight, more advantageously in amounts less 3% by weight, still more advantageously in amounts less than 1% by weight, in particular however in amounts less than 0.5% by weight, whereby preferably a lower limit of 0.05% by weight, advantageously 0.1% by weight is not exceeded.
4. The use according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the natural oil contained in the micro-emulsion is selected from vegetable and/or animal fatty oils and/or ethereous oils.
5. The use according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that, the quantitative ratio of cationic to non-ionic emulsifier is advantageously in the range from 70:1 to 3:1, in particular from 50:1 to 8:1, preferably from 30:1 to 10:1, and more preferably from 20:1 to 12:1.
6. The use according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that, as for the cationic emulsifiers contained in the micro-emulsion, these are quaternary ammonium compounds, advantageously alkylated quaternary ammonium compounds, preferably with one, two or three hydrophobic groups, which are in particular coupled via ester or amido bonds with a quaternised di- or tri-ethanol amine, or an analogous compound.
7. The use according to any claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains less than 20% by weight, preferably less than 15% by weight, advantageously less than 10% by weight, very advantageously less than 5% by weight, more advantageously less than 4% by weight, still more advantageously less than 3.5% by weight, most advantageously less than 3% by weight, extremely advantageously less than 2.5% by weight, advantageously less than 2% by weight, however at least 0.1% by weight, advantageously at least 0.5% by weight, in particular 1% by weight of cationic emulsifiers.
8. The use according to any claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 3% by weight, advantageously less than 2% by weight, very advantageously less than 1.5% by weight, more advantageously less than 1.0% by weight, still more advantageously less than 0.75% by weight, most advantageously less than 0.6% by weight, extremely advantageously less than 0.45% by weight, advantageously less than 0.35% by weight, however at least 0.15% by weight, advantageously at least 0.2% by weight, in particular at least 0.25% by weight of non-ionic emulsifiers.
9. The use according to any claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains at least 0.5% by weight, preferably at least 2.5% by weight, advantageously at least 5% by weight, in particular 10% by weight, however not more than 50% by weight, preferably not more than 45% by weight, advantageously not more than 40% by weight, very advantageously not more than 35% by weight, still more advantageously not more than 32% by weight, most advantageously not more than 28% by weight, advantageously not more than 25% by weight of oils, each based on the total agent.
10. The use according to any claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains at least 0.05% by weight, preferably at least 0.1% by weight, advantageously at least 0.15% by weight, in particular at least 0.2% by weight, however not more than 3% by weight, preferably not more than 2.5% by weight, advantageously not more than 2.0% by weight, very advantageously not more than 1.5% by weight, still advantageously not more than 1.0% by weight, most advantageously not more than 0.75% by weight, advantageously not more than 0.5% by weight of hydrophilic and/or lipophilic thickening agents.
11. The use according to any claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains not more than 85% by weight, advantageously not more than 80% by weight, very advantageously not more than 75% by weight, still more advantageously not more than 70% by weight, most advantageously not more than 68% by weight, advantageously not more than 65% of water, each based on the total agent.
12. The use according to any claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the micro-emulsion contains at least 0.03% by weight, in particular from 0.05% to 1% by weight, of natural antioxidants, in particular selected from terpene-containing antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin C, selenium and/or their derivatives or mixtures thereof.
13. The use according to any claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the viscosity of the micro-emulsion is between 20 to 180 mPa.s and in particular between 25 and 120 mPa.s, as measured with the DV II Brookfield viscosimeter at 22°C, 20 rpm, spindle 3.
14. The use according to any claims 1 to 13, characterised in that the density of the micro-emulsion is in the range from 0.900 to 1.050 g/cm³, preferably between 0.950 and 1.030 g/cm³, and in particular between 0.980 and 1.015 g/cm³ at 22°C.
15. A textile post-treatment agent, which comprises at least the components: a) an anti-oxidation agent, b) at least one lipophilic cationic emulsifier, c) at least one hydrophilic emulsifier, which is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol, as well as d) natural oils, characterised in that the agent exists as a micro-emulsion with a droplet size d₅₀ of less than 500 nm, and has a viscosity in the range from 5 to 300 mPa.s (as measured with the DV II Brookfield viscosimeter at 22°C, 20 rpm, spindle 3), wherein it contains 50 to 90% by weight of water, based on the total agent.
16. The agent according to claim 15, characterised in that an acid buffer is contained, preferably an organic buffer system, which buffers the micro-emulsion and the textile treatment bath in particular in a pH range from 3 to 5.5.