EP2989191A1 - Fabric softener - Google Patents

Fabric softener

Info

Publication number
EP2989191A1
EP2989191A1 EP14718726.4A EP14718726A EP2989191A1 EP 2989191 A1 EP2989191 A1 EP 2989191A1 EP 14718726 A EP14718726 A EP 14718726A EP 2989191 A1 EP2989191 A1 EP 2989191A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fabric softener
softener composition
composition according
fabric
biocidal agent
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP14718726.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
George Costa
Tony Wilson
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Intelligent Fabric Technologies PLC
Original Assignee
Intelligent Fabric Technologies PLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Intelligent Fabric Technologies PLC filed Critical Intelligent Fabric Technologies PLC
Publication of EP2989191A1 publication Critical patent/EP2989191A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D1/00—Detergent compositions based essentially on surface-active compounds; Use of these compounds as a detergent
    • C11D1/38—Cationic compounds
    • C11D1/62—Quaternary ammonium compounds
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D17/00—Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties
    • C11D17/04—Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties combined with or containing other objects
    • C11D17/041—Compositions releasably affixed on a substrate or incorporated into a dispensing means
    • C11D17/047—Arrangements specially adapted for dry cleaning or laundry dryer related applications
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D17/00—Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties
    • C11D17/04—Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties combined with or containing other objects
    • C11D17/049—Cleaning or scouring pads; Wipes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
    • C11D3/0005—Other compounding ingredients characterised by their effect
    • C11D3/001—Softening compositions
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
    • C11D3/0005—Other compounding ingredients characterised by their effect
    • C11D3/001—Softening compositions
    • C11D3/0015—Softening compositions liquid
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
    • C11D3/16—Organic compounds
    • C11D3/37—Polymers
    • C11D3/3703—Macromolecular compounds obtained otherwise than by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
    • C11D3/3719—Polyamides or polyimides
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C11—ANIMAL OR VEGETABLE OILS, FATS, FATTY SUBSTANCES OR WAXES; FATTY ACIDS THEREFROM; DETERGENTS; CANDLES
    • C11D—DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL
    • C11D3/00—Other compounding ingredients of detergent compositions covered in group C11D1/00
    • C11D3/48—Medical, disinfecting agents, disinfecting, antibacterial, germicidal or antimicrobial compositions

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a fabric softener comprising an active ingredient which provides the fabric with biocidal properties.
  • fabric softening compositions that include surfactants and low quantities of optional ingredients such as perfumes, stabilisers, preservatives and colorants.
  • the softeners are usually conveniently added to a washing machine in liquid form.
  • Fabric softeners contain surfactants which have lubricant properties and are electrically conductive.
  • the surfactants prevent static electricity and make the fabrics feel smoother.
  • the softener compositions can often provide a thin coating on the fabric fibres to make the fabric fluffier, softer and better smelling.
  • fabric softener There are two main types of fabric softener; those that use cationic surfactants and those that use anionic surfactants.
  • the choice of softener can vary depending on the fabric to be treated. Some softeners are more suitable for cellulose-based fibres, whilst others have a higher affinity to hydrophobic materials such as nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile, etc.
  • Softener compositions are usually prepared as an emulsion, as the surfactants are frequently hydrophobic.
  • the lubricating properties of the cationic softeners are due to the positive charges of the surfactants within the softener composition.
  • Surfactants are usually acidic and the positively charged particles of the surfactant attract the negatively charged particles within the fabric.
  • the negative charge of the fabric is neutralized, creating a lower frictional resistance. This reduces the static cling and the fabric feels softer to touch.
  • the molecules of these surfactants tend to have long aliphatic chains which are oriented towards the outside of the fibre, providing lubrication.
  • cationic surfactants can impact the water adsorption properties of the fabric, they are often combined with other chemicals which have a lower affinity to the fibres.
  • anionic surfactants are incompatible with the anionic surfactants used in detergents, with which they tend to form a solid precipitate. Therefore, they have to be added during a separate cycle, typically the rinse cycle of a conventional domestic washing machine.
  • anionic softeners can be directly combined with anionic surfactants.
  • anionic surfactants and antistatic agents are salts of monoesters and diesters of phosphoric acid and the fatty alcohols. They can also be combined with more conventional cationic softeners. This has led to the development of two-in-one formulations, where the fabric softener is combined with the detergent.
  • a further development is the ability to add a fabric conditioner to fabrics in a tumble dryer.
  • Fabric softener is applied to a flexible substrate that carries the fabric softener and is added to the drying cycle.
  • the advantages of this method of conditioning the fabric include avoiding a separate wash cycle for the addition of a fabric softener, and avoiding any undesired interactions of the softening agents with detergents.
  • the present invention relates to a fabric conditioner that imparts antibacterial properties to the fabric.
  • a fabric softener comprising a carrier or bulking agent, at least one surfactant, and at least one biocidal ingredient.
  • the surfactant can be a quaternary ammonium salt, for example.
  • the fabric softener may take the form of a liquid formulation, or alternatively the liquid formulation may be applied to a suitable substrate for use in a tumble-dryer. It is also possible to formulate the fabric softener composition as a dry powder, for dispersion in a liquid during a conventional wash/rinse cycle.
  • a suitable composition for the fabric softener of the present invention comprises a quaternary ammonium salt (the surfactant); a carrier; and an active ingredient which provides biocidal properties.
  • the biocide may be an antimicrobial or antibacterial agent, for example. More than one biocidal agent may be combined.
  • the biocide is preferably an effective fungicide.
  • the formulation may further comprise one or all of the following; viscosity modifiers, preservatives and/or perfume.
  • the fabric softener contains at least one active ingredient which lends biocidal properties to the softener.
  • the biocide is used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoans.
  • the biocidal properties imparted by the fabric softener prevent the growth of mildew or bacteria on the fabric. As these are common causes of malodour, the biocide helps to keep the fabric smelling freshly washed. This effect lasts longer than it would if an ordinary fabric softener, without additional biocidal ingredients, were to be used. It also has a stronger and longer lasting effect than that provided by any preservatives included in an ordinary fabric softener composition.
  • the primary aim of the preservatives used in ordinary fabric conditioners is to improve the shelf-life of the product, rather than to prevent bacterial, protozoan or fungal growth on the treated fabric.
  • Combinations of biocidal ingredients can be used to deliver targeted action against different types of organisms.
  • Particularly preferred forms of the invention include fabric softeners intended for use during the wash cycle or final rinse of a wash cycle in the form of liquids or powders.
  • the terms "fabric conditioner” and “fabric softener” should be understood to be interchangeable in the context of this application.
  • the fabric softener can also be applied to a substrate for use in a dryer, where the fabric softening properties of the formulation are imparted to the fabric articles during a drying step.
  • the dryer may be a tumble-type dryer or equivalent.
  • the fabric softener can be used in either residential machines, or in industrial and institutional settings. This includes fabric or textile laundering operations in commercial or service industries, including for example, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, health clubs, prisons, etc., as well as the preparation of fabrics in a factory setting.
  • one component of the fabric softener composition is a quaternary ammonium compound, acting as a surfactant to provide the lubricating properties expected from a fabric softener.
  • suitable quaternary ammonium compounds include alkylated quaternary ammonium compounds, alkoxylated quaternary ammonium compounds, ring or cyclic quaternary ammonium compounds, aromatic quaternary ammonium compounds, di-quaternary ammonium compounds, amidoamine quaternary ammonium compounds, ester quaternary ammonium compounds and triethanolamine based esterquats. A mixture of one or more of these compounds could also be used.
  • Many quaternary ammonium compounds, particularly those with ester linkages in the aliphatic chains have demonstrated improved biodegradation kinetics, lowering the environmental bioaccumulation levels.
  • the quaternary ammonium compounds may use any counter ion that has fabric softening properties.
  • suitable counter ions include chloride, methyl sulphate, ethyl sulphate and sulphate.
  • Particularly preferred surfactants include di-hydrogenated tallow hydroxyethylmonium metho sulphate, dimethyl distearic ammonium chloride, bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethylammonium chloride, and dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium metho sulphate.
  • the amount of quaternary ammonium component can be in the range of approximately 2% to 30% by weight of the final product. More preferably, the quaternary ammonium content can be from approximately 5% to 20% by weight, from approximately 10% to 15% by weight or most preferably, from 11 to 13% by weight of the final product.
  • the carrier for the formulation is preferably water. This may be tap water, but is more preferably de-ionised water. Optionally distilled, purified or filtered water can be used.
  • the carrier can be formed from a mixture of water and water soluble organic solvents, such as short-chain alcohols. Ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, benzyl alcohol and mixtures of these solvents can be added to the water in quantities of up to approximately 10% by weight, more preferably up to approximately 5% by weight, of the carrier fluid.
  • Soluble organic solvents such as the alcohols mentioned above are used if it is desirable to increase the concentration of active ingredients in the fabric softener composition whilst still retaining the desired product viscosity. If a free flowing powder form of the fabric conditioner is required, it may be necessary to use atomised powders of the desired quaternary ammonium compounds.
  • US5,200,097 (Hughes et al) describes the advantages of adding processing aids such as polyoxyalkylene derivatives to quaternary ammonium compounds prior to atomisation. Any suitable bulking agent or carrier can be used in combination with the atomised quaternary ammonium compounds.
  • the fabric conditioner may also be provided on a substrate impregnated with the fabric softening ingredients, for use in a drying cycle.
  • the substrate can be a sponge, cloth (woven/knitted or non-woven), a porous sheet, paper or any other suitable vehicle for carrying the fabric softener.
  • the substrate will have an open or porous structure, and good absorbent properties.
  • the amount of conditioning composition affixed to the flexible substrate may vary depending on the size of the substrate and the degree of fabric conditioning desired.
  • the fabric conditioner is preferably applied in liquid form to the substrate, and this is commonly achieved by processes such as dipping or spraying. Following the application of the liquid fabric softener, the substrates are dried to evaporate any residual solvents (e.g. water).
  • viscosity modifiers or control agents can be used to reduce the viscosity of the formulation, in order to produce a pourable formulation with a viscosity that is acceptable to the consumer.
  • viscosity modifiers include fatty acids and esters, water-miscible solvents and water-soluble ionisable salts.
  • Water-soluble calcium salts are particularly suitable for use as viscosity modifiers.
  • Calcium chloride is one preferred example of a calcium salt suitable for use as a viscosity modifier, although alternatives such as magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium bromide and lithium chloride can also be used.
  • Ionisable salts also have the added advantage that they can often improve the performance of the surfactant. Relatively low concentrations tend to be required.
  • Viscosity agents can be present in liquid formulations in quantities of between 0.00 lwt% and lwt%, more preferably between 0.01wt% and 0.5wt%, and most preferably in the range of 0.01wt% and 0.1wt%.
  • the formulation may also include preservatives, anti-static agents, odour capturing agents and perfumes.
  • Perfumes may be formed from natural or synthetic ingredients.
  • Stabilisers or preservatives are used to improve the shelf-life of fabric softeners.
  • the stabilisers ensure the stability of the emulsion during storage, even at variable temperatures.
  • Stabilising agents may include antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid, propyl gallate and citric acid and reductive agents, such as sodium borohydride and hypophosphorous acid.
  • Preservatives can include anti-microbial agents such as isothiazolinone-based chemicals (in particular isothiazol-3-one biocides) or glutaraldehyde-based products.
  • preservatives can be present in a liquid formulation in quantities of up to about 0.3%, more preferably less than 0.2%.
  • the fabric softener composition may contain a mix of two or more stabilising agents and/or preservatives. As the active ingredient of the formulation is a biocidal agent, the use of an additional preservative becomes optional.
  • the active ingredient, the biocidal agent is present in liquid formulations in concentrations of between 0.00 lwt% and 10wt%, more preferably between 0. lwt% and 7wt% and most preferably between 0.5wt% and 5wt%.
  • the biocidal agent may be present in addition to or in the place of any preservatives that are ordinarily used. More than one biocidal agent may be used in combination to target different organisms.
  • the biocidal agent may be a pesticide, for example, a fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, algicide; an antimicrobial agent, for example, a germicide, antibiotic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiviral; an antiprotozoal agent; or a combination of one or more of these.
  • the biocidal agent is used to prevent growth of organisms (such as bacteria or fungi) on the surface of the fabric for a prolonged period of time after the fabric has been washed, thus keeping the fabric smelling and feeling fresher for a longer.
  • biocidal agents target a wide range of microorganisms.
  • suitable biocides for use in a fabric conditioner include glycol ethers, quaternary ammonium chlorides, polyhexinides, biguanides and amidines.
  • suitable compounds for use as the active ingredient in the fabric softener, the biocidal agent include: polyhexamethylene guanide (PHMG), polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride, poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) hydrochloride, or benzalkonium chloride (also known as alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, or ADBAC), phenoxyethanol, or a combination of two or more of these compounds.
  • the active ingredient could comprise a combination of benzalkonium chloride and polyhexamethylene biguanide.
  • the relative concentrations of the two may range between about 1:25 and 10: 1.
  • the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be in the range 0.001 - to 0.2wt% and the second biocidal agent may have a concentration in the range 0.02 - 5.5wt%. Further, the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be in the range of 0.01 - 0.03wt%, and the concentration of the second biocidal agent may be in the range of l-3wt%. For example, the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be approximately 0.024wt% and the concentration of the second biocidal agent may be approximately 1.25wt%, 2.45wt%, or 2.48wt%.
  • Benzalkonium chloride solutions have a moderately long duration of action and are active against bacteria, some viruses, fungi and protozoa.
  • Benzalkonium chloride is suitable for use with quaternary ammonium formulations and other cationic surfactants.
  • Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) is capable of killing bacteria and viruses and is capable of controlling algae and other microorganisms. It is often used in antimicrobial hand washes. Biocidal activity is not affected by the hardness of the water, or by water temperature.
  • a first example of a liquid fabric softener composition is a liquid fabric softener composition
  • Example 3 A second, fragrance-free, example of a liquid fabric softener composition: Example 3
  • a third example of a liquid fabric softener composition is a liquid fabric softener composition
  • Example 5 A fourth example of a liquid fabric softener composition: Example 5
  • a fifth example of a liquid fabric softener composition is a liquid fabric softener composition

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
  • Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Treatments For Attaching Organic Compounds To Fibrous Goods (AREA)

Abstract

A fabric softener comprising an active ingredient which provides the fabric with biocidal properties. The fabric softener may take the form of a liquid formulation, or alternatively the liquid formulation may be applied to a suitable substrate for use in a tumble dryer. It is also possible to formulate the fabric softener composition as a dry powder, for dispersion in a liquid.

Description

Fabric Softener
This invention relates to a fabric softener comprising an active ingredient which provides the fabric with biocidal properties.
It has become common in the consumer and residential sector to use fabric softening compositions that include surfactants and low quantities of optional ingredients such as perfumes, stabilisers, preservatives and colorants. The softeners are usually conveniently added to a washing machine in liquid form.
Fabric softeners contain surfactants which have lubricant properties and are electrically conductive. The surfactants prevent static electricity and make the fabrics feel smoother. In addition, the softener compositions can often provide a thin coating on the fabric fibres to make the fabric fluffier, softer and better smelling.
There are two main types of fabric softener; those that use cationic surfactants and those that use anionic surfactants. The choice of softener can vary depending on the fabric to be treated. Some softeners are more suitable for cellulose-based fibres, whilst others have a higher affinity to hydrophobic materials such as nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile, etc. Softener compositions are usually prepared as an emulsion, as the surfactants are frequently hydrophobic.
The lubricating properties of the cationic softeners are due to the positive charges of the surfactants within the softener composition. Surfactants are usually acidic and the positively charged particles of the surfactant attract the negatively charged particles within the fabric. The negative charge of the fabric is neutralized, creating a lower frictional resistance. This reduces the static cling and the fabric feels softer to touch. The molecules of these surfactants tend to have long aliphatic chains which are oriented towards the outside of the fibre, providing lubrication. As cationic surfactants can impact the water adsorption properties of the fabric, they are often combined with other chemicals which have a lower affinity to the fibres.
Many commercial fabric softeners are based on quaternary ammonium salts with one or two long alkyl chains, for example, dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium methosulfate. Other cationic compounds can be derived from imidazolium, substituted amine salts, or quaternary alkoxy ammonium salts. Early formulations commonly used dihydrogenated tallow dimethyl ammonium chloride (DHTDMAC). Fabric softeners containing quaternary ammonium salts operate well in conventional residential wash and dryer cycles and provide softness to textiles that are both woven and non-woven.
Cationic surfactants are incompatible with the anionic surfactants used in detergents, with which they tend to form a solid precipitate. Therefore, they have to be added during a separate cycle, typically the rinse cycle of a conventional domestic washing machine. In contrast, anionic softeners can be directly combined with anionic surfactants. Examples of anionic surfactants and antistatic agents are salts of monoesters and diesters of phosphoric acid and the fatty alcohols. They can also be combined with more conventional cationic softeners. This has led to the development of two-in-one formulations, where the fabric softener is combined with the detergent.
A further development is the ability to add a fabric conditioner to fabrics in a tumble dryer. Fabric softener is applied to a flexible substrate that carries the fabric softener and is added to the drying cycle. The advantages of this method of conditioning the fabric include avoiding a separate wash cycle for the addition of a fabric softener, and avoiding any undesired interactions of the softening agents with detergents.
The present invention relates to a fabric conditioner that imparts antibacterial properties to the fabric. According to the present invention, there is provided a fabric softener comprising a carrier or bulking agent, at least one surfactant, and at least one biocidal ingredient. The surfactant can be a quaternary ammonium salt, for example. The fabric softener may take the form of a liquid formulation, or alternatively the liquid formulation may be applied to a suitable substrate for use in a tumble-dryer. It is also possible to formulate the fabric softener composition as a dry powder, for dispersion in a liquid during a conventional wash/rinse cycle.
One example of a suitable composition for the fabric softener of the present invention comprises a quaternary ammonium salt (the surfactant); a carrier; and an active ingredient which provides biocidal properties. The biocide may be an antimicrobial or antibacterial agent, for example. More than one biocidal agent may be combined. The biocide is preferably an effective fungicide. The formulation may further comprise one or all of the following; viscosity modifiers, preservatives and/or perfume.
The fabric softener contains at least one active ingredient which lends biocidal properties to the softener. The biocide is used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoans. The biocidal properties imparted by the fabric softener prevent the growth of mildew or bacteria on the fabric. As these are common causes of malodour, the biocide helps to keep the fabric smelling freshly washed. This effect lasts longer than it would if an ordinary fabric softener, without additional biocidal ingredients, were to be used. It also has a stronger and longer lasting effect than that provided by any preservatives included in an ordinary fabric softener composition. The primary aim of the preservatives used in ordinary fabric conditioners is to improve the shelf-life of the product, rather than to prevent bacterial, protozoan or fungal growth on the treated fabric. Combinations of biocidal ingredients can be used to deliver targeted action against different types of organisms.
Particularly preferred forms of the invention include fabric softeners intended for use during the wash cycle or final rinse of a wash cycle in the form of liquids or powders. The terms "fabric conditioner" and "fabric softener" should be understood to be interchangeable in the context of this application. The fabric softener can also be applied to a substrate for use in a dryer, where the fabric softening properties of the formulation are imparted to the fabric articles during a drying step. The dryer may be a tumble-type dryer or equivalent. The fabric softener can be used in either residential machines, or in industrial and institutional settings. This includes fabric or textile laundering operations in commercial or service industries, including for example, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, health clubs, prisons, etc., as well as the preparation of fabrics in a factory setting.
As mentioned above, one component of the fabric softener composition is a quaternary ammonium compound, acting as a surfactant to provide the lubricating properties expected from a fabric softener. Examples of suitable quaternary ammonium compounds that could be used include alkylated quaternary ammonium compounds, alkoxylated quaternary ammonium compounds, ring or cyclic quaternary ammonium compounds, aromatic quaternary ammonium compounds, di-quaternary ammonium compounds, amidoamine quaternary ammonium compounds, ester quaternary ammonium compounds and triethanolamine based esterquats. A mixture of one or more of these compounds could also be used. Many quaternary ammonium compounds, particularly those with ester linkages in the aliphatic chains, have demonstrated improved biodegradation kinetics, lowering the environmental bioaccumulation levels.
The quaternary ammonium compounds may use any counter ion that has fabric softening properties. Examples of suitable counter ions include chloride, methyl sulphate, ethyl sulphate and sulphate. Particularly preferred surfactants include di-hydrogenated tallow hydroxyethylmonium metho sulphate, dimethyl distearic ammonium chloride, bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethylammonium chloride, and dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium metho sulphate.
The amount of quaternary ammonium component can be in the range of approximately 2% to 30% by weight of the final product. More preferably, the quaternary ammonium content can be from approximately 5% to 20% by weight, from approximately 10% to 15% by weight or most preferably, from 11 to 13% by weight of the final product.
Where the fabric softener is a liquid, the carrier for the formulation is preferably water. This may be tap water, but is more preferably de-ionised water. Optionally distilled, purified or filtered water can be used. The carrier can be formed from a mixture of water and water soluble organic solvents, such as short-chain alcohols. Ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, benzyl alcohol and mixtures of these solvents can be added to the water in quantities of up to approximately 10% by weight, more preferably up to approximately 5% by weight, of the carrier fluid. Soluble organic solvents such as the alcohols mentioned above are used if it is desirable to increase the concentration of active ingredients in the fabric softener composition whilst still retaining the desired product viscosity. If a free flowing powder form of the fabric conditioner is required, it may be necessary to use atomised powders of the desired quaternary ammonium compounds. US5,200,097 (Hughes et al) describes the advantages of adding processing aids such as polyoxyalkylene derivatives to quaternary ammonium compounds prior to atomisation. Any suitable bulking agent or carrier can be used in combination with the atomised quaternary ammonium compounds.
The fabric conditioner may also be provided on a substrate impregnated with the fabric softening ingredients, for use in a drying cycle. The substrate can be a sponge, cloth (woven/knitted or non-woven), a porous sheet, paper or any other suitable vehicle for carrying the fabric softener. Preferably, the substrate will have an open or porous structure, and good absorbent properties. The amount of conditioning composition affixed to the flexible substrate may vary depending on the size of the substrate and the degree of fabric conditioning desired. The fabric conditioner is preferably applied in liquid form to the substrate, and this is commonly achieved by processes such as dipping or spraying. Following the application of the liquid fabric softener, the substrates are dried to evaporate any residual solvents (e.g. water).
For liquid formulations, viscosity modifiers or control agents can be used to reduce the viscosity of the formulation, in order to produce a pourable formulation with a viscosity that is acceptable to the consumer. Examples of viscosity modifiers include fatty acids and esters, water-miscible solvents and water-soluble ionisable salts. Water-soluble calcium salts are particularly suitable for use as viscosity modifiers. Calcium chloride is one preferred example of a calcium salt suitable for use as a viscosity modifier, although alternatives such as magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium bromide and lithium chloride can also be used. Ionisable salts also have the added advantage that they can often improve the performance of the surfactant. Relatively low concentrations tend to be required. Viscosity agents can be present in liquid formulations in quantities of between 0.00 lwt% and lwt%, more preferably between 0.01wt% and 0.5wt%, and most preferably in the range of 0.01wt% and 0.1wt%.
The formulation may also include preservatives, anti-static agents, odour capturing agents and perfumes. Perfumes may be formed from natural or synthetic ingredients.
Stabilisers or preservatives are used to improve the shelf-life of fabric softeners. For fabric softeners in liquid form, the stabilisers ensure the stability of the emulsion during storage, even at variable temperatures. Stabilising agents may include antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid, propyl gallate and citric acid and reductive agents, such as sodium borohydride and hypophosphorous acid. Preservatives can include anti-microbial agents such as isothiazolinone-based chemicals (in particular isothiazol-3-one biocides) or glutaraldehyde-based products. As a guide, preservatives can be present in a liquid formulation in quantities of up to about 0.3%, more preferably less than 0.2%. The fabric softener composition may contain a mix of two or more stabilising agents and/or preservatives. As the active ingredient of the formulation is a biocidal agent, the use of an additional preservative becomes optional.
The active ingredient, the biocidal agent, is present in liquid formulations in concentrations of between 0.00 lwt% and 10wt%, more preferably between 0. lwt% and 7wt% and most preferably between 0.5wt% and 5wt%. The biocidal agent may be present in addition to or in the place of any preservatives that are ordinarily used. More than one biocidal agent may be used in combination to target different organisms. The biocidal agent may be a pesticide, for example, a fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, algicide; an antimicrobial agent, for example, a germicide, antibiotic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiviral; an antiprotozoal agent; or a combination of one or more of these. The biocidal agent is used to prevent growth of organisms (such as bacteria or fungi) on the surface of the fabric for a prolonged period of time after the fabric has been washed, thus keeping the fabric smelling and feeling fresher for a longer.
Many biocidal agents target a wide range of microorganisms. Examples of suitable biocides for use in a fabric conditioner include glycol ethers, quaternary ammonium chlorides, polyhexinides, biguanides and amidines.
Examples of suitable compounds for use as the active ingredient in the fabric softener, the biocidal agent, include: polyhexamethylene guanide (PHMG), polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride, poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) hydrochloride, or benzalkonium chloride (also known as alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, or ADBAC), phenoxyethanol, or a combination of two or more of these compounds. For example, the active ingredient could comprise a combination of benzalkonium chloride and polyhexamethylene biguanide. When two biocidal agents are used, the relative concentrations of the two may range between about 1:25 and 10: 1. For example, the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be in the range 0.001 - to 0.2wt% and the second biocidal agent may have a concentration in the range 0.02 - 5.5wt%. Further, the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be in the range of 0.01 - 0.03wt%, and the concentration of the second biocidal agent may be in the range of l-3wt%. For example, the concentration of the first biocidal agent may be approximately 0.024wt% and the concentration of the second biocidal agent may be approximately 1.25wt%, 2.45wt%, or 2.48wt%. Benzalkonium chloride solutions have a moderately long duration of action and are active against bacteria, some viruses, fungi and protozoa. Benzalkonium chloride is suitable for use with quaternary ammonium formulations and other cationic surfactants. Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) is capable of killing bacteria and viruses and is capable of controlling algae and other microorganisms. It is often used in antimicrobial hand washes. Biocidal activity is not affected by the hardness of the water, or by water temperature.
It will be recognised by a person skilled in the art that numerous formulations can be produced according to the invention. Non-limiting examples of suitable formulations are provided below.
Example 1
A first example of a liquid fabric softener composition:
Example 2
A second, fragrance-free, example of a liquid fabric softener composition: Example 3
A third example of a liquid fabric softener composition:
Example 4
A fourth example of a liquid fabric softener composition: Example 5
A fifth example of a liquid fabric softener composition:

Claims

Claims
1. A fabric softener composition comprising a carrier or bulking agent, at least one surfactant, and more than one biocidal agent, where at least one biocidal agent is a biguanide compound, and a where second biocidal agent is benzalkonium chloride.
2. A fabric softener composition according to Claim 1, where the biguanide compound is polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB).
3. A fabric softener composition according to Claim 1, where the biguanide compound is polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride.
4. A fabric softener composition according to Claim 1, where at least one
biocidal agent is a polyhexinide compound.
5. A fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the total concentration of the biocidal agent is at least 0.5wt%.
6. A fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the total concentration of the biocidal agent is in the range of 0.5wt% to 10wt%.
7. A fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the total concentration of the biocidal agent is in the range of 0.5wt% to 7wt%.
8. A fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the total concentration of the biocidal agent is in the range of 2wt% to 8wt%.
9. A fabric softener according to any preceding claim, where the at least one surfactant is a quaternary ammonium salt.
10. A fabric softener according to Claim 8, where the quaternary ammonium salt is di-hydrogenated tallow hydroxyethylmonium metho sulphate.
11. A fabric softener according to Claim 8, where the quaternary ammonium salt is dimethyl distearic ammonium chloride.
12. A fabric softener according to Claim 8, where the quaternary ammoniums salt is bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethylammonium chloride.
13. A fabric softener according to any preceding claim, where the concentration of the surfactant is in the range of 5wt% to 30wt%.
14. The fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, further comprising a perfume.
15. The fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, further comprising a preservative.
16. The fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the carrier is a liquid solvent.
17. The fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, where the carrier comprises water, or is a mixture of water and an alcohol.
18. The fabric softener composition according to any preceding claim, further comprising a viscosity modifier.
19. A substrate impregnated with the fabric softener composition of any preceding claim.
20. The fabric softener composition according to any one of Claims 1-15, where the carrier is a bulking agent in dry powder form, further comprising at least one processing aid.
21. The fabric softener composition according to Claim 20, where at least one processing aid is a polyoxyalkylene compound.
EP14718726.4A 2013-04-24 2014-04-22 Fabric softener Withdrawn EP2989191A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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GB1307410.9A GB2513361A (en) 2013-04-24 2013-04-24 Fabric softener
PCT/GB2014/051244 WO2014174272A1 (en) 2013-04-24 2014-04-22 Fabric softener

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GB201307410D0 (en) 2013-06-05
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