EP3638841B1 - Composition and use thereof for the finishing of fibres and textiles - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to compositions comprising at least one cationic polyelectrolyte, at least one anionic compound and at least one nonionic surfactant and to their use for finishing textiles.

Nowadays, textiles are subject to ever higher demands. Depending on the application, textiles should be hydrophobic, hydrophilic, flame-retardant, antistatic, crease-resistant, oil-repellent, weatherproof, etc. These requirements can no longer be met by simply selecting a suitable fiber material. In this field, the surface of the fibers and/or textiles is therefore increasingly being chemically modified, i.e. treated, in order to tailor the properties of the textile to the application. The treatment is usually carried out directly by the manufacturers on an industrial scale.

• geringere Knitterneigung
• hohe Reiß- und Scheuerfestigkeit
• hohe Variabilität der Eigenschaften durch Wahl der Monomere
• geringes Gewicht
• geringe Herstellungskosten

Textiles are usually made from fibers, whereby a distinction is made between natural fibers, i.e. fibers obtained without chemical modification from plant fibers, e.g. cotton, or animal fibers, e.g. wool or silk, and synthetic fibers. In contrast to natural fibers, most synthetic fibers have significant advantages:

• less tendency to crease
• high tear and abrasion resistance
• high variability of properties through choice of monomers
• low weight
• low production costs

As a result, more synthetic fibers than natural fibers are currently being processed into textiles worldwide. Despite the advantages, synthetic fibers also have disadvantages. Synthetic fibers are more electrostatically charged than natural fibers. Synthetic fibers also hardly absorb moisture, which has a negative effect on wearing comfort. Textiles made from synthetic fibers cannot therefore be used at all or only to a limited extent in certain areas, e.g. by combining them with natural fibers.

In order to give synthetic fibers antistatic and/or hydrophilic properties, so-called finishing agents can be used, which are applied to the surface of the fibers or textiles. However, it is usually difficult to fix the finishing agents to synthetic fibers in a way that is permanent after washing, since synthetic fibers have few or no functional groups that can permanently bind the finishing agent to the fiber or textile, e.g. through covalent, ionic or v.d.Waals interactions. To solve the problem, finishing agents are used in most cases that are self-crosslinking or can be crosslinked by another component. While such finishing agents usually have a higher wash permanence, the textile feel of textiles treated in this way is not satisfactory. In addition, the crosslinking reaction usually takes place at higher temperatures, e.g. at 150°C. Such reaction conditions are not suitable for all fibers and can lead to undesirable yellowing, chemical degradation reactions and changes in the shape of the fiber and/or textile. Cross-linkable finishing agents are also being criticized for health reasons, as the functional groups of the cross-linking agents, e.g. epoxy, chlorohydroxyl or (blocked) isocyanate groups, are suspected of being hazardous to health or even toxic. Finally, the high energy consumption for the finishing is ecologically questionable.

Alternatively, equipment with complexes of cationic and anionic preparations is proposed to achieve the corresponding To achieve wash permanence on a fiber or textile. This is usually done in a two-step process in which cationic and anionic components are applied one after the other.

In EP 0 603 987 A1 A two-stage process is described in which a layer of cations and anions is applied to a substrate one after the other. The best wash permanence is achieved with a stoichiometric ratio between anions and cations, although under these circumstances the hydrophilicity is insufficient. By varying the charge ratio between anions and cations the hydrophilicity can be improved, but the wash permanence is negatively affected to the same extent. Acceptable hydrophilic properties and at the same time acceptable wash permanence are not achieved by the systems described.

In WO 2006/015080 A1 Substrates are treated alternately with cationic and anionic agents. In order to avoid deposits in the individual baths, a washing step is carried out between each step. The disadvantage of this process is that the polymers are not absorbed quantitatively, so that precipitates form in the liquor, which settle on the fibers or textiles and cause stains. The washing step also involves a great deal of additional work and product loss.

In US 6,060,410 B A solution consisting of a strongly substoichiometric ratio of cationic and anionic molecules is applied to a substrate. The still free ionic groups are mixed with an oppositely ionic hydrophobic component in a second bath.

Also in US 5,208,111 B and US 2004/0185284 A1 Two-step processes for the formation of complexes are proposed.

The two-stage processes described involve high production costs, while at the same time it is difficult to ensure process stability to ensure that the formation of insoluble complexes in the liquor creates the risk of unwanted deposits on the fibre or textile.

Water-insoluble cation-anion complexes can also be used as solids. For this purpose, the complexes are usually precipitated as ion pairs in aqueous systems and then separated, dried and/or granulated. The products can be used in plastic moldings or other non-aqueous formulations. These dried, water-insoluble complexes are not suitable for equipment in aqueous media because they are not sufficiently finely distributed to avoid deposits and stains.

US6,596,678 B2 describes a powdered cleaning agent composition with a polyelectrolyte complex made of cationic and anionic polymers. The polyelectrolyte complex is present in the washing liquor as particles that deposit on the textiles to be cleaned and protect them during the washing process. The complex is washed out again during subsequent rinsing.

In WO 2011/131728 A1 An anion-cation complex precipitated in water is dried after filtration and used as an additive in plastic moldings.

The anion-cation complexes described above are all unsuitable for finishing textiles, as a homogeneous application to the fiber or textile is not possible or may even cause stains on the textile.

US 3,622,378 B describes mixtures of anionic and cationic surfactants and an amphoteric surfactant. The complexes precipitate as soon as the mixture is diluted. In addition, the treated fibers and textiles do not have the desired wash permanence.

In DE 19 852 584 A1 and US$6,060,410 B describes aqueous dispersions of cation-anion complexes. The dispersions are homogenized mechanically, e.g. by ultrasound. However, the liquor is only metastable and has a strong tendency to agglomerate. This means that the liquor is only of limited use as a finishing agent, also because there is a risk of deposits and stains forming on the textile to be finished.

EP 0 603 987 B1 relates to a permanent hydrophilic-cationic surface coating. The surface to be coated is dipped into an aqueous solution of a cationic surfactant and/or polymer. To form the ion complex, an anionic surfactant and/or polymer is applied to the surface. Alternatively, a dispersion of the anion-cation complex is proposed for coating filters. The ion complex described is not suitable for coating fibers or textiles because sufficiently stable liquors cannot be produced.

JP 2006-183012 A relates to a composition for the antistatic treatment of fibers, comprising a polycation with an average molecular weight of 3,000 - 200,000 Da, a metal salt of an anionic polymer with a molecular weight of 10,000 - 300,000 Da and a crosslinker with a polyfunctional group.

US 3,361,718 A relates to an antistatic agent for finishing textile materials, comprising a substantially water-insoluble compound consisting of a cationic polymer with high molecular weight and anionic groups.

EN 10 2014 119664 A1 relates to a composition for the permanent hydrophilic finishing of textiles, consisting of an anionic Surfactant, a non-ionic consistency agent, a hydrophilically modified polyalkylsiloxane and, if necessary, a hydrotropic dispersing agent.

US2017/0044425 describes polyelectrolyte nanoparticles to stabilize foams for use in petroleum recovery. The liquid dispersion comprises a polyelectrolyte material and surfactant in water, wherein the polyelectrolyte material is formed from nanoparticles formed by cationic and anionic polyelectrolytes.

• aufwändige Mehrstufenprozesse bei der Applikation
• Ausrüstung nicht beim Endverbraucher durchführbar
• Griffverhärtung
• thermische Vergilbung
• Verwendung physiologisch bedenklicher Ausgangsprodukte
• mangelnde Waschpermanenz
• Gefahr von Fleckenbildung durch unkontrollierte Ablagerungen

In summary, the state of the art equipment has the following disadvantages:

• complex multi-stage processes in the application
• Equipment not feasible at the end user
• Grip hardening
• thermal yellowing
• Use of physiologically harmful starting materials
• lack of wash permanence
• Risk of staining due to uncontrolled deposits

End users often also want to give existing textiles certain properties or to refresh certain properties of textiles. For example, additives are known that are simply added to the washing solution during the wash cycle, e.g. in (household) washing machines. Textiles treated in this way are said to have an improved water-repellent effect after washing. The additives can be used as a replacement or addition to conventional detergents. Alternatively, the additives can also be added to the wash load in dosing units. The dosing unit ensures a controlled release of the additive during application, ie during the wash cycle. The dosing units enable the controlled release of the additive, for example continuously over the entire wash cycle or gradually under certain conditions, e.g. when a predetermined temperature or under mechanical stress (e.g. when spinning). Such dosing units are known to those skilled in the art and include, for example, so-called wash cloths, dosing balls, tabs, pods or caps.

US 4,095,946 A discloses an article for cleaning, softening and controlling the static charge of fabrics for use in the washing machine and dryer.

So far, it has not been possible to provide additives for the end consumer market that can give a textile permanent antistatic and/or hydrophilic properties. When the additive is used in the home, i.e. when washing by hand and in (household) washing machines, the highest requirements are also placed on environmental compatibility and toxicity, as the washing liquor contaminated with the additive usually ends up in the wastewater untreated.

1. (A) mindestens einen kationischen Polyelektrolyt,
2. (B) mindestens eine anionische Verbindung,
3. (C) mindestens ein nichtionisches Tensid und
4. (D) ggf. mindestens ein flüssiges Medium umfasst,

• wobei die Zusammensetzung in Form eines Kolloids vorliegt und das Verhältnis der Nettoladung in Komponente (A) zur Nettoladung in Komponente (B) 1:10 - 10:1 ist,
• wobei Komponente (A) 4-62 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht,
• wobei die Komponente (B) 15-85 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht, und
• wobei Komponente (C) 20-80 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht und
• wobei Komponente (D) 40-80 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtzusammensetzung ausmacht.

Surprisingly, the problem can be solved by providing a composition that

1. (A) at least one cationic polyelectrolyte,
2. (B) at least one anionic compound,
3. (C) at least one non-ionic surfactant and
4. (D) optionally comprising at least one liquid medium,

• wherein the composition is in the form of a colloid and the ratio of the net charge in component (A) to the net charge in component (B) is 1:10 - 10:1,
• where component (A) accounts for 4-62 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C),
• wherein component (B) makes up 15-85 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C), and
• where component (C) makes up 20-80 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C) and
• wherein component (D) accounts for 40-80 wt.% based on the total composition.

The colloid particles preferably have an average diameter of 5 nm to 3 µm, more preferably 10 nm to 2 µm, even more preferably 40 nm to 1.5 µm and even more preferably 40 nm to 500 nm. The composition is preferably optically transparent or opaque.

Polyelectrolytes are polymers with side or chain ionic groups. Thus, the cationic polyelectrolyte (A) is a polymer with side and/or chain cationic groups, in particular with side cationic groups. Preferably, the cationic group in the polyelectrolyte is permanently cationic, i.e. independent of the reaction conditions, for example independent of the pH value.

The cationic group in the polyelectrolyte (A) is preferably an ammonium, pyridinium, imidazolium, pyrrolidonium group or an N-substituted heteroaromatic group, particularly preferably a quaternary ammonium group.

The polyelectrolyte (A) is preferably obtainable by (i) polymerization of at least three monomer units, each having a permanent cationic charge and/or (ii) by condensation reactions which lead to at least three cationic groups and/or (iii) by alkylation of at least three amino functions in a polymer to permanently cationic groups.

The polyelectrolyte (A) can be a homo- or a copolymer. In the case that the polyelectrolyte is a copolymer, the copolymer can contain at least comprise a repeating unit which is derived from a comonomer selected from the group consisting of styrene, acrylonitrile, (meth)acrylic acid ester, (meth)acrylamide, (meth)acrylic acid, vinyl acetate and allyl alcohol derivative. If the comonomers contain a chemically ionizable group, this can be converted to a permanently cationic group after polymerization. Chemically ionizable groups are preferred, eg amino groups, which can be converted to quaternary ammonium ions, eg by alkylation.

The permanently cationic charge in the monomer unit in (i) is preferably an ammonium, pyridinium, imidazolium, pyrrolidonium group or an N-substituted heteroaromatic group, particularly preferably a quaternary ammonium group.

Preferred monomer units in (i) are α,β-unsaturated hydrocarbon compounds which have a permanent cationic charge. Particularly preferred monomer units in (i) are selected from the group consisting of diallyldialkylammonium salt, in particular diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), trialkylammonium alkyl (meth)acrylate salt and trialkylammonium alkyl (meth)acrylamide salt.

mit

• R₁ = -C_1-4-Alkyl, bevorzugt -CH₃,
  oder
  
  mit
• R₂ = -H oder -C_1-4-Alkyl, bevorzugt -CH₃, und
• R3 =
  

Particularly preferred monomer units in (i) are structurally represented below:

with

• R ₁ = -C _1-4 -alkyl, preferably -CH ₃ ,
  or
  
  with
• R ₂ = -H or -C _1-4 -alkyl, preferably -CH ₃ , and
• R3 =
  

mit

• R₁ wie oben definiert
• R₄ = -CH₃, -C₂H₅, -C₃H₇, -C₄H₉,
• p = 2-6.

Alternatively, the cationic polyelectrolyte (A) can be prepared by condensation reactions which lead to at least three cationic groups. Such a condensation reaction (ii) preferably comprises a reaction of at least one dialkylamine, tertiary alkyl and/or (hetero)aryl diamine with at least one epihalohydrin and/or bishalide. The epihalohydrin is preferably epichlorohydrin or epibromohydrin, more preferably epichlorohydrin. The bishalide is preferably an α,ω-bishalide, preferably α,ω-bisalkyl halide or α,ω-bishaloalkyl ether. Preferred amino-functional compounds for the condensation reaction (ii) with epihalohydrin and/or bishalide include:

with

• R ₁ as defined above
• R ₄ = -CH ₃ , -C ₂ H ₅ , -C ₃ H ₇ , -C ₄ H ₉ ,
• p = 2-6.

In a further alternative, the polyelectrolyte (A) can be obtained by polymerizing at least three monomer units, each of which has at least one chemically and/or physically ionizable group. Preferably, the chemically ionizable group is an amino group, which can be converted to a quaternary ammonium ion by alkylation. Preferably, in alternative (iii), the polyelectrolyte (A) is obtained by alkylating at least three amino functions in a polymer to permanently cationic groups.

oder

wobei

• R₂ unabhängig voneinander wie oben definiert ist und
• n 3-100.000 ist.

Preferred polymers are those having at least three amino functions, selected from the group consisting of linear or branched polyalkyleneimine, in particular polyethyleneimine. Alternatively, polymers having at least three amino functions can be obtained by polymerizing at least three monomer units, each of which has at least one amino function, in particular diallyldialkylamine, vinylamine, vinylpyrazole, vinylimidazole and/or aziridine. Preferred polymers having at least three amino functions are:

or

where

• R ₂ is independently defined as above and
• n is 3-100,000.

The conditions and alkylating reagents for the alkylation of the amino functions in the polymer are well known to the person skilled in the art. Preferred alkylating reagents are, for example, dimethyl sulfate, diethyl sulfate, methyl halogen, benzyl halogen, methyl tosylate, or 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (CHPTAC).

The polyelectrolyte (A) preferably has a number average molecular weight of 1,000-5,000,000 g/mol, more preferably of 1,000-1,000,000 g/mol, even more preferably of 1,500-1,000,000 g/mol and even more preferably of 2,000-500,000 g/mol.

The polyelectrolyte (A) is preferably constructed such that 30-100 mol%, preferably 50-100 mol%, of the repeating units have a cationic group.

In a preferred embodiment, the cationic charge density of the cationic polyelectrolyte (A) is 2.0-14.0 meq/g, more preferably 2.3-13 meq/g, and most preferably 2.5-12 meq/g.

The composition contains the polyelectrolyte (A) at 4-62 wt.%, preferably 5-55 wt.%, based on the total mass of components A, B and C.

The anionic compound (B) preferably has at least one, more preferably 1-3, i.e. 1, 2 or 3, anionic group(s). In another preferred embodiment, the anionic compound (B) is an anionic polyelectrolyte.

Preferably, the anionic compound (B) comprises at least one phosphate, phosphonate, sulfate, sulfonate, carboxylate, sulfoacetate, sulfosuccinate and/or taurate group.

In a further preferred embodiment, the anionic compound (B) is selected from mono-, di-(C _4-22 -alkyl(alkoxy))phosphate, mono-, di-(C _4-22 -alkyl)phosphonate, C _4-22 -alkylaminophosphonate, C _4-22 -alkyl(alkoxy)sulfate, secondary alkylsulfonate, petroleumsulfonate, C _4-22 -alkylsulfonate, C _4-22 -alkylarylsulfonate, fatty alcohol ether carboxylate, fatty acid salt, fatty alkyl sulfoacetate, fatty acid amide ether sulfate, fatty alcohol ether carboxylate, nonylphenol ether sulfate, fatty alkyl ether sulfate, C _4-22 -alkylpolyalkoxylene phosphate and C _4-22 -alkylpolyalkoxylene sulfate.

wobei

• R₂ unabhängig voneinander wie oben definiert ist,
• Ra, unabhängig voneinander ein gesättigter oder ungesättigter Kohlenwasserstoffrest mit 4-18 Kohlenstoffatomen ist,
• n_A unabhängig voneinander 0-20 ist.

Preferred mono- or dialkyl(alkoxy)phosphates or hydrogenphosphates are derived from the following acids:

where

• R ₂ is independently defined as above,
• Ra, independently of each other, is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 4-18 carbon atoms,
• n _A is independently 0-20.

wobei

• R_A2 ein gesättigter oder ungesättigter Kohlenwasserstoffrest mit 8-18 Kohlenstoffatomen ist, und
• n_A2 unabhängig voneinander 0-10 ist.

A preferred alkyl alkoxy sulfate is derived from the following acid:

where

• R _A2 is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 8-18 carbon atoms, and
• n _A2 is independently 0-10.

wobei
R_A3 ein gesättigter oder ungesättigter Kohlenwasserstoffrest mit 8-20 Kohlenstoffatomen ist.A preferred alkylarylsulfonate is derived from the following acid:

where
R _A3 is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 8-20 carbon atoms.

Alternatively, the compound (B) can be an anionic polyelectrolyte. The polyelectrolyte (B) is preferably a polymer with pendant anionic groups. Such polyelectrolytes are preferably obtainable by polymerization of at least three monomer units (iv), each of which has at least one chemically ionizable group.

The ionizable group in the monomer unit (iv) is preferably a group which has an acidic proton, e.g. an acid group with ionically bound hydrogen. Such acid groups can be deprotonated in an acid-base reaction by adding a base. Preferred examples of the monomer unit (iv) are (meth)acrylic acid, maleic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS), allylsulfonic acid and styrenesulfonic acid.

In a preferred embodiment, the polyelectrolyte (B) is a homo- or copolymer. The polyelectrolyte copolymer can comprise at least one repeating unit which is derived from a comonomer, e.g. selected from the group consisting of styrene, acrylonitrile, (meth)acrylic acid ester and (meth)acrylamide.

The anionic polyelectrolyte (B) is preferably constructed such that 30-100 mol%, preferably 50-100 mol%, of the repeating units have an anionic group.

The anionic compound (B) makes up 15-85 wt.%, preferably 20-80 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C).

Component (A) and component (B) form an ionic complex with each other. This ionic complex forms a core to which the non-ionic surfactant (C) is bound via hydrophobic interactions.

The ratio of the net charge in component (A) to the net charge in component (B) is 1:10 to 10:1, more preferably 1:7 to 7:1. The net charge of component (A) is equal to the sum of all positive charges minus the sum of any negative charges present. The net charge of component (B) is equal to the sum of all negative charges minus the sum of any positive charges present.

1. (A) mindestens einen kationischen Polyelektrolyt,
2. (B) mindestens eine anionische Verbindung,
3. (C) mindestens ein nichtionisches Tensid und
4. (D) ggf. mindestens ein flüssiges Medium,

• wobei die Zusammensetzung in Form eines Kolloids vorliegt und das Verhältnis der Nettoladung in Komponente (A) zur Nettoladung in Komponente (B) 1:10 - 10:1 ist,
• wobei Komponente (A) 4-62 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht,
• wobei die Komponente (B) 15-85 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht, und
• wobei Komponente (C) 20-80 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtmasse der Komponenten (A), (B) und (C) ausmacht und
• wobei Komponente (D) 40-80 Gew.-% bezogen auf die Gesamtzusammensetzung ausmacht.

The composition according to the invention comprises:

1. (A) at least one cationic polyelectrolyte,
2. (B) at least one anionic compound,
3. (C) at least one non-ionic surfactant and
4. (D) if necessary, at least one liquid medium,

• wherein the composition is in the form of a colloid and the ratio of the net charge in component (A) to the net charge in component (B) is 1:10 - 10:1,
• where component (A) accounts for 4-62 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C),
• wherein component (B) makes up 15-85 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C), and
• where component (C) makes up 20-80 wt.% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C) and
• wherein component (D) accounts for 40-80 wt.% based on the total composition.

Component (C) is preferably an alkoxylation product of fatty acid, fatty acid ester, fatty acid amine, fatty acid amide, fatty alcohol, aliphatic mono-, di- or tri-alcohol, mono-, di- or tri-glyceride, alkylphenol, sorbitan fatty acid and sugar derivatives or trialkylphenol polyalkoxyls or a block copolymer, e.g. poly(ethylene oxide-co-propylene oxide).

In a more preferred embodiment, the nonionic surfactant (C) is selected from the group consisting of alkoxylated C ₉ -C ₂₅ fatty alcohols, alkoxylated C _9-25 fatty acid amines, alkoxylated C ₉ -C ₂₅ fatty acid amides, C ₈ -C ₂₅ fatty acids alkoxylated at the carboxylate function, alkoxylated C ₈ -C ₂₅ fatty acid esters, alkoxylated C ₈ -C ₂₅ alkylphenols and alkoxylated mono-, di- or triglycerides of C ₈ -C ₂₅ fatty acids and/or their esterification products with C ₈ -C ₂₅ fatty acids or trialkylphenyl polyalkoxyls or a block polymer, e.g. poly(ethylene oxide-co-propylene oxide), or fatty alcohol-poly(ethylene oxide-co-propylene oxide) and mixtures thereof. The number of alkoxylene groups in the nonionic surfactant is at least 8, preferably 8-85, more preferably 10-85 and most preferably 10-80 repeat units. The alkyl groups can each independently be branched or straight-chain, saturated or unsaturated.

wobei

• R_B ein gesättigter oder ungestättigter Kohlenwasserstoffrest mit 8-22 Kohlenstoffatomen ist,
• R₅ unabhängig voneinander
  
  ist,
• R₆, R₇ und R₈ unabhängig voneinander -H oder ein gesättigter oder ungesättigter Kohlenwassertoffrest mit 8-18 Kohlenstoffatomen sind,
• n_B 8-80 ist,
• a+b+c 10-115 ist und
• m 10-200 ist.

Preferred nonionic surfactants (C) are as follows:

where

• R _B is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 8-22 carbon atoms,
• R ₅ independently
  
  is,
• R ₆ , R ₇ and R ₈ are independently -H or a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon radical having 8-18 carbon atoms,
• n _B 8-80 is,
• a+b+c is 10-115 and
• m is 10-200.

The composition contains 20-80 wt.%, preferably 30-60 wt.%, of component (C) based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C).

The composition according to the invention can contain at least one liquid medium (D). The liquid medium is preferably a solvent, in particular water, or a polar organic solvent or a mixture thereof. Preferred polar organic solvents are alcohol, glycol, glycol ether, ether, ketone or mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred organic solvents are ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, glycerin, monoethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, butyl diglycol, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, mono-, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, N-methylpyrrolidone, acetone or mixtures thereof.

The composition according to the invention contains 40-80 wt.%, preferably 50-80 wt.%, of component (D) based on the total composition.

Component (D) can be introduced into the composition separately or together with the components from (A), (B) and (C). The composition can be present as a concentrate (e.g. 40-75% by weight of component (D) based on the total composition) or in diluted form.

The composition may further contain at least one textile auxiliary agent, e.g. an antistatic agent, hydrophilizing agent, flame retardant, softening agent, anti-wrinkle agent, lubricant, UV resistance agent, corrosion inhibitor or fluorine-free or fluorine-containing hydrophobizing agent.

If necessary, pH regulators can be used to adjust the pH value of the composition. Suitable pH regulators are known to those skilled in the art.

1. a) Bereitstellen der Komponente (A), ggf. in einem flüssigen Medium,
2. b) Bereitstellen der Komponente (B), ggf. in einem flüssigen Medium,
3. c) Bereitstellen der Komponente (C), ggf. in einem flüssigen Medium,
4. d) ggf. Bereitstellen der Komponente (D) und
5. e) Mischen der in den Schritten a)-d) erhaltenen Produkte.

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a process for preparing the composition described above comprising the steps:

1. a) providing component (A), if necessary in a liquid medium,
2. b) providing component (B), if necessary in a liquid medium,
3. c) providing component (C), if necessary in a liquid medium,
4. d) if necessary, provision of component (D) and
5. e) Mixing the products obtained in steps a)-d).

Methods known to the person skilled in the art can be used to mix the products obtained in steps a) to d) (step e)). Step e) is preferably carried out using homogenizers known in the art, e.g. in the temperature range of 20-100 °C.

In a further aspect of the invention, the composition according to the invention is used for the antistatic and/or hydrophilic finishing of textiles, in particular linear or flat textiles, more preferably flat textiles.

A " textile " in the sense of the invention is made from several fibers. "Fibers" in the sense of the present invention are natural fibers as well as synthetic fibers. "Natural fibers" are preferably cotton, wool or silk. "Synthetic fibers" or " synthetic fibers" are synthetically made from natural or synthetic polymers and are preferably made from polyester, polyolefin, preferably polyethylene or polypropylene, more preferably polypropylene, polyamide, polyaramide, such as Kevlar ^® and Nomex ^® , polyacrylonitrile, elastane or viscose. According to the invention, textiles can also contain mixtures of natural fibers and synthetic fibers.

Preferably, the textile is flat. "Flat textiles" are preferably knitwear, fleece, felt, fabric, knitted fabric and braid.

"Antistatic" finishing and/or "antistatic finishing" in the sense of the present invention means increasing the electrical conductivity on the surface of the material to be finished in order to counteract electrostatic charging. The electrical resistance on the surface of the finished material is preferably 10 ⁹ to 9×10 ¹¹ Ohm (measured in accordance with DIN EN 1149-1).

Hydrophilicity in the sense of the present invention is the measure of the ability of a material to absorb water. A material is referred to as "hydrophilic" in the sense of the present invention if the absorbency of the material is 1-30 seconds according to the TEGEWA drip test.

Surprisingly, it has been shown that textiles can be treated simply by adding the composition according to the invention to the wash liquor, e.g. in (household) washing machines or when hand-washing. The composition can be added as a concentrate or in diluted form. The concentration of components (A), (B), (C) and optionally (D) in the wash liquor is preferably 0.1-10 g/l, more preferably 0.3-8 g/l.

Alternatively, the composition according to the invention can be provided in a dosing unit through which the composition according to the invention can be released in a controlled manner during the wash cycle, e.g. in a (household) washing machine. Such dosing units are known in the field and include so-called washcloths, tabs, caps, pods and dosing devices, e.g. dosing balls.

In one aspect, the invention therefore relates to a dosing unit comprising a composition according to the invention, in particular in the form of a washcloth, tabs, caps, pods or a dosing device.

In the case of tabs, the composition - preferably in solid form - is compressed into tablets (so-called tabs). The tabs gradually dissolve during the wash cycle and thus enable the composition to be continuously released into the laundry.

In the case of caps, the composition - preferably liquid - is packaged in bags, for example. The packaging is preferably designed in such a way that it becomes leaky at a predetermined temperature in the presence of water, so that the time of release of the composition during the wash cycle can be controlled. Alternatively, the packaging is designed in such a way that it becomes leaky when subjected to mechanical stress, e.g. during the spin cycle. The packaging is preferably made of polyethylene or polypropylene.

In the case of pods, the composition - preferably liquid - is packaged in bags, for example, similar to caps. The packaging is preferably designed in such a way that it dissolves without residue under the specified washing conditions. The packaging is therefore preferably made of degradable or soluble polymers, such as polyvinyl alcohol or polylactide.

In the case of the washcloth, a substrate is preferably impregnated with the composition according to the invention. The washcloth is added to the laundry in the drum of the (household) washing machine, preferably at the beginning of the wash cycle. During the wash cycle, the composition migrates into the wash liquor in a controlled manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the substrate is a fleece, woven fabric, knitted fabric or felt. The substrate is preferably made of cellulose, e.g. cotton or viscose, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyolefin, in particular polypropylene or polyethylene and/or polyacrylonitrile. The substrates of the washcloths are preferably made of polyolefins, particularly preferably polypropylene, due to their low price and low tendency to lint.

The washcloth preferably has an area of <1600 cm ² , more preferably 10-1600 cm ² , even more preferably 20-1000 cm ² .

The mass ratio of components (A), (B) and (C) in the composition to the substrate of the washcloth is preferably 1:1 or 10:1 to 0.5:1.

The high local concentration of the composition as well as the ratio of the active substances (A), (B) and (C) enables a continuous migration of the composition into the washing liquor.

In all dosing units according to the invention, the amount of the composition is to be selected such that the concentration of components (A), (B), (C) and optionally (D) in the wash liquor during the finishing wash cycle is 0.1-10 g/l, preferably 0.3-8 g/l. Preferably, after washing, the textile is finished with about 0.01-1% by weight, more preferably 0.01-0.8% by weight, of components (A), (B) and (C) based on the total mass of the textile.

The washcloths according to the invention can be used for one or more wash cycles, preferably for at least 1, 2, 5 or 10 wash cycles, e.g. at 95 °C. The washcloths can also be provided with other active substances, such as detergents, softeners, fabric softeners, fragrances, etc.

• (i) Bereitstellen eines Substrats,
• (i) Aufbringen der erfindungsgemäßen Zubereitung auf das Substrat und
• (iii) ggf. zumindest teilweises Entfernen des flüssigen Mediums (D) bei Temperaturen oberhalb Raumtemperatur und ggf. bei vermindertem Druck.

The washcloths according to the invention can be manufactured according to the following steps:

• (i) providing a substrate,
• (i) applying the preparation according to the invention to the substrate and
• (iii) if necessary, at least partial removal of the liquid medium (D) at temperatures above room temperature and if necessary at reduced pressure.

The composition according to the invention can preferably be produced according to the known methods, eg by spraying, dipping, impregnating, brushing or sponge application or forced application, or exhaustion processes. The washcloths are preferably produced by treating the substrate with the concentrate of the composition according to the invention. The method according to the invention can further comprise a post-treatment step (iv) in which the impregnated substrate is completely dried and/or fixed. Step (iv) can be carried out at 80-160 °C, preferably at 100-130 °C.

Accordingly, a further subject matter of the invention is the use of the dosing unit according to the invention for the antistatic and/or hydrophilic finishing of textiles, preferably in washing machines, in particular in household washing machines.

Surprisingly, it has been found that the compositions according to the invention are suitable for making textiles antistatic and hydrophilic. In addition, it has been shown that the finish is wash-permanent. For the purposes of the present invention, "wash-permanent" means that the desired properties imparted by the finishing agent, e.g. antistatic properties and/or hydrophilic properties, are not or hardly reduced even after repeated washing in domestic washing machines. Preferably, the desired properties do not deteriorate after 10-20 or 5-10 washes in domestic washing machines, or deteriorate by no more than 20%.

Surprisingly, the wash-permanent finish could be achieved not only with natural fibers but also in particular with synthetic fibers such as PE, PA, PAN and PP, which are usually difficult to finish and can hardly be given a wash-permanent finish due to missing, fewer or inert functional groups. The compositions according to the invention can be applied in a simple process, e.g. in (household) washing machines. In addition, the composition according to the invention is stable in a wide concentration range. "Stable" in the sense of the invention means that no sediment is formed. In the case of the concentrate, no sediment formation is observed preferably after 3 months, more preferably after 6 months, even more preferably after 12 months, at 4°C, at 25-30°C or at 40°C. No sediment forms in the wash liquor either. This property of the composition means that the textiles can be finished homogeneously and no sediment or deposits form on the materials to be finished.

In the following, the invention is illustrated by means of examples.

materials

• Poly-DADMAC: Polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride, active substance 53% Copolymer DADMAC/diallylamine: active substance 38%
• Hostapur SAS 60: C13-C17 secondary alkanesulfonate, sodium salt, active substance 60 %
• Hordaphos 222: C12-C14 hydrocarbon residue, 4 EO, phosphate, active substance 100%
• Lutensol TO 20: C13 hydrocarbon residue, 20 EO, alkyl polyethylene glycol ether based, active substance 100 %
• Marlipal 16/18 - 25: C16-C18 hydrocarbon residue, 25 EO, alkyl polyethylene glycol ether based, active substance 100 %
• Dowanol DPM: Dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether

example 1

48 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer (stirring fish). 15 g of the fatty alcohol "Lutensol TO-20" (C13, 20EO) are added while stirring. The mixture is heated to 80°C and the surfactant is completely dissolved. Then 17 g of a secondary alkane sulfonate (Hostapur SAS 60) are added and dissolved. 10 g of Dowanol (dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether) and 10 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active substance 53%) are added one after the other. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

A liquor is prepared by diluting 40 g of the product obtained to 1000 ml of water. The textiles to be finished are dipped in the liquor and then squeezing (padded) with the product. The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 100%.

After 3, 5 and 10 household washes, the antistatic properties and hydrophilicity are measured according to DIN EN 1149-1 or TEGEWA drip test.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric): zero antistatic value 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] example 1 1.10E+11 4.60E+10 4.20E+11 5 8th 9

Polyamide 6.6, knitted fabric: zero antistatic value 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] example 1 9.50E+10 5.00E+10 2.90E+11 6 9 10

Polyacrylonitrile (woven fabric): zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 10 sec. equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] example 1 3.40E+10 6.00E+10 1.40E+10 3 3 5

Example 2: Washcloth Preparation of the composition

47.4 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer (stirring bar). 15 g of the fatty alcohol "Lutensol TO-20" (C13, 20EO) are added while stirring. Then 5 g of butyldiglycol are added. The mixture is heated to 90°C and the surfactant is completely dissolved. Then 13.8 g of an alkoxylated (4EO) phosphoric acid ester (Hordaphos 222) are added and dissolved. 1.66 g of sodium hydroxide solution (50%) and 9.2 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active substance 53%) are added one after the other. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

Production of the washcloth

The washcloth comprises a substrate made of polypropylene spun fiber fabric with an area of 900 cm ² . The substrate has a mass of 17.3 g.

The substrate is treated by dipping it into the resulting composition and then squeezing it (padding). The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 200%. The treated substrate is then dried for 2 minutes at 120°C.

Use of the washcloth and results

The washcloth obtained in this way is washed together with 0.6 kg of additional pack (household laundry at 40°C). The additional pack consists of 0.3 kg of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric) and 0.3 kg of polyamide (polyamide 6.6; knitted fabric)

After the domestic washing, the accessory pack is dried in air for 2 days and conditioned in a climate room for 3 days. Afterwards, antistatic and Hydrophilicity is measured. To ensure homogeneous equipment, the accessory pack is tested at four different points.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. PES insert Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 2.70E+10 3 3.40E+10 3 2.80E+10 4 2.50E+10 3

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric:

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. PA accessory pack Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 1.20E+11 2 9.50E+10 3 9.50E+10 2 1.10E+11 2

Example 3: Washcloth Preparation of the composition

43.0 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer (stirring fish). 30 g of the fatty alcohol "Lutensol TO-20" (C13, 20EO) are added while stirring. The mixture is heated to 90°C and the surfactant is completely dissolved. Then 17.0 g of a secondary alkanesulfonate sodium salt (Hostapur SAS 60, active ingredient 60%) are added and dissolved. The mixture is cooled to 60°C. At this temperature, 9.2 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active ingredient 53%) are added. added. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

Production of the washcloth

Analogous to example 2, the same proportions are used on a scale of 1:10.

The washcloth comprises a substrate made of polypropylene spun fiber fabric with an area of 90 cm ² . The substrate has a mass of 1.0 g.

The substrate is treated by dipping it into the resulting composition and then squeezing it (padding). The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 240%. The treated substrate is then dried for 2 minutes at 120°C.

Use of the washcloth and results

The washcloth obtained in this way is washed together with 60 g of additional pack (household laundry at 40°C). The additional pack consists of 30 g of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric) and 30 g of polyamide (polyamide 6.6; knitted fabric). The additional pack simulates the end user's textiles to be finished.

After washing at home, the accessory pack is dried in air for 2 days and then air-conditioned in a climate-controlled room for 3 days. Antistatic properties and hydrophilic properties are then measured. To ensure that the equipment is homogeneous, the accessory pack is tested in three different places.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. PES insert Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 1.00E+10 3 1.10E+10 3 8.00E+09 3

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. PA accessory pack Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 4.80E+09 15 4.20E+09 11 3.60E+09 10

In order to test the wash permanence of the goods treated using this method (= accessory pack), the accessory pack was washed 3, 5 and 10 times. The mean value of the measurements is shown as the results in each case.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PES pack in example 3 5.50E+10 9.50E+10 5.50E+10 4 5 7

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PA accessory in example 3 3.40E+10 9.00E+10 1.00E+11 13 8th 21

Example 4: Washcloth Preparation of the composition

58.0 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer (stirring bar). 15 g of the fatty alcohol "Lutensol TO-20" (C13, 20EO) are added while stirring. The mixture is heated to 90°C and the surfactant is completely dissolved. Then 17.0 g of a secondary alkanesulfonate sodium salt (Hostapur SAS 60, active ingredient 60%) are added and dissolved. The mixture is cooled to 60°C. At this temperature 9.2 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active ingredient 53%) are added. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

Production of the washcloth

The washcloth comprises a substrate made of polypropylene spun fiber fabric with an area of 90 cm ² . The substrate has a mass of 1.0 g.

The substrate is treated by dipping it into the resulting composition and then squeezing it (padding). The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 240%. The treated substrate is then dried for 2 minutes at 120°C.

Use of the washcloth and results

The washcloth obtained in this way is washed together with 60 g of additional pack (household laundry at 40°C). The additional pack consists of 30 g of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric) and 30 g of polyamide (polyamide 6.6; knitted fabric). The additional pack simulates the end user's textiles to be finished.

After washing at home, the accessory pack is dried in air for 2 days and then air-conditioned in a climate-controlled room for 3 days. Antistatic properties and hydrophilic properties are then measured. To ensure that the equipment is homogeneous, the accessory pack is tested in three different places.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. PES insert Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 5.50 E+09 2 5.00 E+09 2 5.50 E+09 2

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. PA accessory pack Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 4.20E+09 3 4.80E+09 5 6.00E+09 3

In order to test the wash permanence of the goods treated using this method (= accessory pack), the accessory pack was washed 3, 5 and 10 times. The mean value of the measurements is shown as the results in each case.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PES insert in example 4 1.40E+11 1.10E+11 9.50E+10 3 4 8th

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PA accessory in example 4 7.00E+10 1.30E+11 2.60E+11 4 4 19

Example 5: Washcloth Preparation of the composition

55.37 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer. 15 g of the fatty alcohol "Lutensol TO-20" (C13, 20EO) are added while stirring. Then 5 g of butyldiglycol are added. The mixture is heated to 90°C, completely dissolving the surfactant. Then 13.8 g of an alkoxylated (4EO) phosphoric acid ester (Hordaphos 222) are added and dissolved. The mixture is cooled to 60°C. At this temperature, 1.66 g of sodium hydroxide solution (50%) and 9.2 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active substance 53%) are added one after the other. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

Production of the washcloth

The washcloth comprises a substrate made of polypropylene spun fiber fabric with an area of 90 cm ² . The substrate has a mass of 1.0 g.

The substrate is treated by dipping it into the resulting composition and then squeezing it (padding). The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 240%. The treated substrate is then dried for 2 minutes at 120°C.

Use of the washcloth and results

The washcloth obtained in this way is washed together with 60 g of additional pack (household laundry at 40°C). The additional pack consists of 30 g of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric) and 30 g of polyamide (polyamide 6.6; knitted fabric). The additional pack simulates the end user's textiles to be finished.

After washing at home, the accessory pack is dried in air for 2 days and then air-conditioned in a climate-controlled room for 3 days. Antistatic properties and hydrophilic properties are then measured. To ensure that the equipment is homogeneous, the accessory pack is tested in three different places.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. PES insert Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 2.10 E+08 2 2.40 E+08 2 2.80 E+08 2

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. PA accessory pack Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 1.30E+08 2 2.40E+08 2 2.10 E+08 2

In order to test the wash permanence of the goods treated with this method (= accessory pack), the accessory pack was washed again 3, 5 and 10 times washed. The mean value of the measurements is shown as the results.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PES insert in example 5 2.80E+10 3.80E+10 7.00E+10 4 5 11

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PA accessory in example 5 2.20E+10 8.00E+10 1.30E+11 4 10 10

Example 6: Washcloth Preparation of the composition

50.37 g of water are placed in a beaker with a stirrer (stirring bar). 15 g of "Marlipal 16/18-25" (C16-C18, 25EO) are added while stirring. Then 10 g of Dowanol DPM are added. The mixture is heated to 90°C and the surfactant is completely dissolved. Then 13.8 g of an alkoxylated (4EO) phosphoric acid ester (Hordaphos 222) are added and dissolved. The mixture is cooled to 60°C. At this temperature, 1.66 g of sodium hydroxide solution (50%) and 9.2 g of aqueous poly-DADMAC (active substance 53%) are added one after the other. The initially cloudy mixture is cooled while stirring. A clear colloid solution forms.

Production of the washcloth

The washcloth comprises a substrate made of polypropylene spun fiber fabric with an area of 90 cm ² . The substrate has a mass of 1.0 g.

The substrate is treated by dipping it into the resulting composition and then squeezing it (padding). The pressure on the padder is selected so that the wet absorption is 240%. The treated substrate is then dried for 2 minutes at 120°C.

Use of the washcloth and results

The washcloth obtained in this way is washed together with 60 g of additional pack (household laundry at 40°C). The additional pack consists of 30 g of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric) and 30 g of polyamide (polyamide 6.6; knitted fabric). The additional pack simulates the end user's textiles to be finished.

After washing at home, the accessory pack is dried in air for 2 days and then air-conditioned in a climate-controlled room for 3 days. Antistatic properties and hydrophilic properties are then measured. To ensure that the equipment is homogeneous, the accessory pack is tested in three different places.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 180 sec. PES insert Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 5.00 E+11 3 1.80E+11 2 1.70E+11 2

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

Zero value antistatic 1.0 × 10 ¹⁴ Ohm, hydrophilicity > 80 sec. PA accessory pack Antistatic [Ohm] Sinking time [s] 7.50E+08 1 4.00E+08 1 4.60E+08 1

In order to test the wash permanence of the goods treated using this method (= accessory pack), the accessory pack was washed 3, 5 and 10 times. The mean value of the measurements is shown as the results in each case.

Polyester (polyethylene terephthalate, knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PES insert in example 6 2.60E+11 6.50E+11 8.00E+11 23 29 180

Polyamide 6,6; knitted fabric):

equipment Antistatic after 3 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 5 washes 40°C [Ohm] Antistatic after 10 washes 40°C [Ohm] Sinking time after 3 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 5 washes 40°C [s] Sinking time after 10 washes 40°C [s] PA accessory in example 6 4.80E+11 8.00E+11 1.10E+12 20 12 62

Claims (15)

1. Composition comprising:

   (A) at least one cationic polyelectrolyte,

   (B) at least one anionic compound

   (C) at least one non-ionic surfactant and

   (D) optionally, at least one liquid medium,

   wherein the composition is in the form of a colloid and the ratio of the net charge in component (A) to the net charge in component (B) is 1:10-10:1,

   wherein component (A) constitutes 4-62 wt.-% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C),

   wherein component (B) constitutes 15-85 wt.-% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C), and

   wherein component (C) constitutes 20-80 wt.-% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C), and

   wherein component (D) constitutes 40-80 wt.-% based on the total composition.
2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the colloid particles preferably have a mean diameter of 5 nm to 3 µm.
3. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyelectrolyte (A) is a polymer having pendant and/or chain cationic groups,
   preferably obtainable by (i) polymerisation of at least three monomer units, each having a permanently cationic charge and/or (ii) by condensation reactions leading to at least three cationic groups, and/or (iii) by alkylation of at least three amino functions in a polymer to permanent cationic groups.
4. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polyelectrolyte (A) is a homo- or copolymer,
   wherein the monomer units in (i) preferably comprise an ammonium, pyridinium, imidazolium, pyrrolidinium group or an N-substituted heteroaromatic group, and are in particular selected from the group consisting of diallyldialkylammonium salt, in particular diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), trialkylammoniumalkyl(meth)acrylate salt and trialkylammoniumalkyl (meth)acrylamide salt.
5. The composition according to claim 3, wherein the condensation reaction (ii) comprises a reaction of at least one di-alkylamine, tertiary alkyl and/or (hetero)aryl-diamine with at least one epihalohydrin and/or bis-halide.
6. The composition according to claim 3, wherein the polymer having at least three amino functions in (iii) is selected from the group consisting of linear or branched polyalkyleneimine, in particular polyethyleneimine, or is obtainable by polymerisation of at least three monomer units selected from the group consisting of diallyldialkylamine, vinylamine, vinylpyrazole, vinylimidazole and/or aziridine.
7. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the anionic compound (B) has at least one, preferably 1-3, anionic group(s) or is an anionic polyelectrolyte and preferably comprises at least one phosphate, phosphonate, sulphate, sulphonate, carboxylate, sulphoacetate, sulphosuccinate and/or taurate group, and
   is particularly selected from
   mono-, di-(C_4-22-alkyl (alkoxy)) phosphate, mono-, di-(C_4-22-alkyl) phosphonate, C_4-22-alkylaminophosphonate, C_4-22-alkyl (alkoxy) sulphate,
   secondary alkyl sulphonate, petroleum sulphonate, C_4-22-alkylsulphonate, C_4-22-alkylarylsulphonate, fatty alcohol ether carboxylate, fatty acid salt, fatty alkyl sulphoacetate, fatty acid amide ether sulphate, fatty alcohol ether carboxylate, nonylphenol ether sulphate, fatty alkyl ether sulphate, C_4-22-alkyl polyalkoxylene phosphate and C_4-22-alkyl polyalkoxylene sulphate.
8. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein component (A) and component (B) together form an ionic complex.
9. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio of the net charge in component (A) to the net charge in component (B) is 1:7 to 7:1.
10. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein component (C) is an alkoxylation product of fatty acid, fatty acid ester, fatty acid amine, fatty acid amide, fatty alcohol, aliphatic mono-, di- or tri-alcohol, mono-, di- or tri-glyceride, alkylphenol, sorbitan fatty acid and sugar derivatives, or trialkylphenol polyalkoxylene or a block copolymer, for example, poly(ethylene oxide-co-propylene oxide), and
    wherein component (C) preferably constitutes 20-80 wt.-% based on the total mass of components (A), (B) and (C).
11. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid medium (D) is selected from water, an organic solvent, preferably alcohol, glycol(ether), ether, ketone or mixtures thereof, and
    preferably constitutes 40-80 wt.-% based on the total composition.
12. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one finishing agent for textiles, e.g. an antistatic agent, a hydrophilising agent, a flame retardant, a softening agent, a de-wrinkling agent, a lubricant, a UV resistance agent, a corrosion inhibitor or a fluorine-free or fluorine-containing hydrophobising agent.
13. Dosing unit comprising a composition according to any one of claims 1-12, in particular in the form of a washcloth, preferably comprising a substrate, e.g. knitted fabric, a fleece, woven fabric, knittings or felt, tabs, caps, pods or a dosing device.
14. A method of making a washcloth according to claim 13 comprising the steps of

    (i) providing a substrate,

    (ii) applying the composition according to any one of claims 1-12 to the substrate and

    (iii) optionally, at least partially removing the liquid medium (D) at temperatures above room temperature and optionally at reduced pressure.
15. Use of the dosing unit according to claim 13 or the composition according to any one of claims 1-11 for antistatic and/or hydrophilising finishing of textiles, preferably in washing machines, in particular domestic washing machines.