EP4054394B1 - Wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or surfaces. The invention further relates to a dispenser with the aforementioned wipe. The invention also relates to a method for producing a wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or surfaces.

For wipes, a certain storage capacity for a cleaning or disinfectant agent is generally desired. This is particularly the case with floor wipes. Therefore, many wipes contain cellulose-based fibers such as cotton fibers or viscose fibers, which can absorb water and temporarily bind it within their fibers, giving them good storage capacity.

Disinfectants that contain a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) as an antimicrobial active component are used for surface disinfection. Quaternary ammonium compounds are ionic, nitrogen-containing compounds and are positively charged. Conventional cellulose-based fibers, on the other hand, are normally negatively charged. If a wipe with conventional cellulose-based fibers is combined with a QAC-containing disinfectant, ionic attraction forces cause the positively charged quaternary ammonium compound to bind to the negatively charged fibers of the wipe. By binding the quaternary ammonium compound, the wipe removes the antimicrobially active ingredient from the disinfectant, which impairs the effectiveness of the disinfection process. For this reason, wipes with a high proportion of conventional cellulose-based fibers are now generally considered incompatible with QAC-containing disinfectants.

Wipes made of synthetic fibers, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene (PP) fibers, do not retain quaternary ammonium compounds and are therefore chemically compatible with disinfectants containing QACs. However, the wipes then have only a low storage capacity, as the synthetic fibers are not absorbent and water storage can only be achieved by capillary bonding between the fibers. In order to ensure sufficient storage capacity, especially in floor wipes, a lot of fiber material must be used. This leads to thick wipes that are unwieldy and expensive and are therefore only used as reusable items. In the field of clinical hygiene, however, the use of reusable items has emerged in recent years as one of the main causes of germ spread and nosocomial infections.

EN 10 2007 028 039 A1 discloses a cleaning article comprising a bicomponent nonwoven fabric. In a preferred embodiment, the nonwoven fabric comprises 60 to 70 wt.% viscose fibers, 15 to 20 wt.% bicomponent fibers and 10 to 20 wt.% polypropylene fibers. EP 3 315 659 A1 reveals cationic viscose fibers called Danufil ^® DeepDye. The EP 3 360 993 A1 reveals a disposable, absorbent surface protection mat.

The object of the present invention was to provide a wipe for the medical field which is particularly suitable for surface disinfection using a QAC-containing disinfectant. In addition, the wipe should have good cleaning performance. These objects are achieved with a wipe according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 19.

The wipe according to the invention is intended for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or inanimate surfaces in the medical field. It can be provided that the wipe is held in the hand, for example when it is used for cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces other than floor surfaces. Such a wipe held in the hand when wiping and cleaning is also referred to here as a "surface wipe". However, the wipe can also be intended for cleaning and disinfecting floor surfaces, in which case it is usually used in conjunction with a corresponding cleaning device ("mop"). Such a wipe intended for cleaning and disinfecting floor surfaces is also referred to here as a "floor wiper." Any differences between the surface and floor wipers (such as in size and shape or thickness) are described below in connection with the preferred embodiments of the invention.

• 35 Gew.-% bis 75 Gew.-% positiv geladene Regenerat-Cellulosefasern
• 15 Gew.-% bis 55 Gew.-% synthetische Schmelzbindefasern
• 5 Gew.-% bis 35 Gew.-% synthetische Mikrofasern

According to the invention, the wiping cloth comprises a liquid-storing base material. The base material can be understood as the material from which the cloth is essentially made. Liquid-storing means that the base material can absorb liquid, whereby the base material can typically also release liquid again when wiping and cleaning. The base material is in the form of a fiber mixture. This means that the base material consists of various fibers that are mixed together and not separated from one another. The base material or fiber mixture comprises the following three components:

• 35 wt.% to 75 wt.% positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres
• 15 wt.% to 55 wt.% synthetic melt binding fibers
• 5 wt% to 35 wt% synthetic microfibers

The above three fiber materials provided according to the invention are typically staple fibers.

The regenerated cellulose fibers according to the invention are chemically modified by an additive compared to conventional regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose fibers so that they are positively charged overall. The expression "positively charged" is to be understood as meaning that the fiber material is positively charged overall. The regenerated cellulose fibers according to the invention can therefore also contain negative charges through corresponding chemical functional groups; however, these are compensated by the positive charges which are clearly present in excess and do not lead to any significant QAC binding. The exact nature of the regenerated cellulose fibers according to the invention is described in more detail below.

The melt-bonding and microfibers according to the invention do not contain any naturally occurring polymers, such as cellulose in particular, and are also not based on naturally occurring polymers, which is what the term "synthetic" is intended to express.

Because the regenerated cellulose fibers are positively charged, quaternary ammonium compounds are not bound to the fibers or are bound only in small quantities. This means that the wipe can be compatible with QAC-containing disinfectants, while at the same time the regenerated cellulose fibers do not lose their advantage of storage capacity or absorbency due to the chemical modification. By using the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers, the wipe according to the invention can therefore be compatible with QAC-containing disinfectants and have a high level of liquid storage capacity. These two advantages, which are crucial for surface disinfection, are not present in many conventional wipes from the state of the art, as previously described.

Another advantage of the wiping cloth according to the invention is the synthetic microfibers. The microfibers allow the wiping cloth to absorb dirt better and improve its cleaning performance.

Finally, according to the invention, synthetic melt-binding fibers are also provided in the fiber mixture. They can be brought into a softened and flowable state by the influence of heat, which enables other fibers to be partially embedded. The melt-binding fibers can thus give the wiping cloth the strength required for wiping and cleaning. The melt-binding fibers therefore serve to make the wiping cloth stable and resilient, so that it remains intact during wiping and cleaning.

Another advantage of the wiping cloth according to the invention is that it can be produced relatively inexpensively and contains a high proportion of biodegradable material in the form of positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers. Further advantages of the invention emerge from the preferred embodiments described below.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the wipe is intended as a disposable item. If the wipe is used for cleaning and disinfection in the medical field and is disposed of after a single use according to this preferred embodiment, the spread of germs and nosocomial infections can be better prevented.

The wipe according to the invention can be provided to the user in a dry state by the manufacturer. However, it can also be advantageous for handling if the wipe is provided by the manufacturer pre-moistened with a disinfectant. The present wipe was developed specifically for use with QAC-containing disinfectants. Accordingly, the disinfectant used for pre-moistening preferably comprises a quaternary ammonium compound as an antimicrobial agent. A QAC-containing disinfectant suitable for pre-moistening is Mikrobac forte from Bode Chemie (Hamburg, Germany). The pre-moistening of the surface wipe with the disinfectant could, for example, be 300% to 400% by weight, based on a dry weight of the surface wipe. If the surface wipe weighs 7 g dry, for example, and 28 g pre-moistened, this would correspond to a pre-moistening of 300% by weight. For the floor wipe, a higher range for pre-moistening can be advantageous, for example 750% by weight to 900% by weight, based on a dry weight of the floor wipe. The above-mentioned ranges for pre-moistening represent an actual degree of impregnation of the wipes with the disinfectant. This must be distinguished from the maximum degree of impregnation described below, which is a material-specific parameter and basically indicates the maximum amount of liquid with which the corresponding material can be impregnated.

To further improve the cleaning performance, the wipe can have an abrasive coating. The abrasive coating is usually applied to the base material, for example using a gravure printing process. The abrasive coating can be applied to just one side or to both sides of the base material. Furthermore, the abrasive coating is preferably designed in strip form, whereby the strips can advantageously also be patterned in a grid shape. The height of the abrasive coating can be 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm, which can be measured with a microscope. The height refers to the extent of the coating perpendicular to the direction of the surface extension of the wipe. Furthermore, the abrasive coating can be a synthetic polymer (plastic) such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), an amorphous polyalphaolefin (APAO), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVAC), a polyamide (PA), an olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE-O), a cross-linked olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE-V), a thermoplastic copolyester (TPE-E), a urethane-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE-U), a thermoplastic copolyamide (TPE-A), a styrene-based thermoplastic block copolymer (TPE-S), a styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene polymer (SEBS), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) or styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene (SEPS) or consist of such a polymer. In particular, the abrasive coating comprises or consists of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The material of the abrasive coating also preferably has a Shore A hardness of 50 to 100, in particular 70 to 100, determined according to DIN 53505:2000-08 and ISO 868:2003(E).

As mentioned above, the wipe consists essentially of the base material. If the aforementioned abrasive coating is present, then the wipe usually consists of the base material, the abrasive coating, optionally a liquid disinfectant (if it is the pre-moistened wipe) and optionally a suture material (if the wipe is sewn as described below). However, it is also possible that the wipe consists only of the base material, optionally the liquid disinfectant and optionally the suture material, in which case the aforementioned abrasive coating would not be provided.

In addition to the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers, the synthetic melt-binding fibers and the synthetic microfibers, the base material of the wipe could also contain one or more other fiber materials in an amount of preferably no more than 15% by weight. In this context, for the desired compatibility of the wipe with QAC-containing disinfectants, it should be noted that the base material typically does not contain any fibers made from a naturally occurring polymer and, with the exception of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers, also does not contain any fibers based on a naturally occurring polymer. The base material particularly preferably consists of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers, the synthetic melt-binding fibers and the synthetic microfibers.

Preferred embodiments of the invention can also be specified with regard to the weight ranges of the three fiber materials provided according to the invention.

• 40 Gew.-% bis 65 Gew.-% der positiv geladenen Regenerat-Cellulosefasern
• 15 Gew.-% bis 50 Gew.-% der synthetischen Schmelzbindefasern
• 5 Gew.-% bis 25 Gew.-% der synthetischen Mikrofasern

Preferably, the base material comprises or consists of:

• 40 wt.% to 65 wt.% of positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres
• 15 wt.% to 50 wt.% of the synthetic melt binding fibers
• 5% to 25% by weight of synthetic microfibers

• 45 Gew.-% bis 60 Gew.-% der positiv geladenen Regenerat-Cellulosefasern
• 15 Gew.-% bis 35 Gew.-% der synthetischen Schmelzbindefasern
• 10 Gew.-% bis 25 Gew.-% der synthetischen Mikrofasern

More preferably, the base material comprises or consists of:

• 45 wt.% to 60 wt.% of positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres
• 15 wt.% to 35 wt.% of the synthetic melt binding fibers
• 10% to 25% by weight of synthetic microfibers

• circa 50 Gew.-% der positiv geladenen Regenerat-Cellulosefasern
• circa 35 Gew.-% der synthetischen Schmelzbindefasern
• circa 15 Gew.-% der synthetischen Mikrofasern

Even more preferably, the base material comprises or consists of:

• approximately 50% by weight of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres
• approximately 35% by weight of the synthetic melt binding fibres
• approximately 15% by weight of synthetic microfibers

• circa 55 Gew.-% der positiv geladenen Regenerat-Cellulosefasern
• circa 30 Gew.-% der synthetischen Schmelzbindefasern
• circa 15 Gew.-% der synthetischen Mikrofasern

In particular, the base material comprises or consists of:

• approximately 55% by weight of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres
• approximately 30 wt.% of the synthetic melt binding fibres
• approximately 15% by weight of synthetic microfibers

The base material is preferably a nonwoven fabric. Nonwoven fabrics can be produced relatively easily and inexpensively. The base material, especially as a nonwoven fabric, is usually consolidated by needling using high-pressure water jets (spunlace process). This can reduce the tendency for the surface to pill. In addition, the base material is normally consolidated by partially melting the melt binding fibers. This can be used to adjust the tear resistance of the base material.

The base material can advantageously also be provided with an embossed pattern. According to this particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the base material therefore has an embossed pattern. This can improve the sliding properties of the wiping cloth, which can be particularly important for the floor wiping cloth. The embossed pattern is preferably diamond-shaped, rod-shaped or honeycomb-shaped. In particular, the rod-shaped design of the embossed pattern is preferred here. The base material is usually provided with the embossed pattern essentially over its entire surface. The embossed pattern can be formed, for example, by depressions on the side of the base material intended for wiping, with the depressions being introduced into the base material, for example, using a corresponding embossing roller. In particular, the embossed pattern is created in the base material using a hot calender. This allows a particularly durable embossing to be achieved.

For the wipe, in particular for its base material, advantageous values can also be specified for size and shape, thickness, basis weight, density, sinking time, water retention capacity, maximum degree of impregnation, area performance, tear resistance, QAC compatibility and coefficient of friction. The values refer in particular to the base material without any abrasive coating that the wipe may contain.

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can be essentially rectangular and have a length of 10 cm to 60 cm and a width of 10 cm to 60 cm. As a surface wiping cloth, it can advantageously have a length of 18 cm to 40 cm, in particular of approximately 30 cm, and a width of 18 cm to 40 cm, in particular of approximately 30 cm. As a floor wiping cloth, it can advantageously have a length of 40 cm to 60 cm, in particular of approximately 43 cm, and a width of 10 cm to 20 cm, in particular of approximately 13 cm. The preferred strip-like shape of the floor wiping cloth fits the wiping cloth holders of conventional mop systems.

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. As a surface wiping cloth, it can advantageously have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 0.8 mm to 1.1 mm. A particularly high absorbency is desired for the floor wiping cloth, which is why it advantageously has a thickness of 2 mm to 4 mm, preferably 2.5 mm to 3.2 mm. The preferably higher values for the thickness also result in a higher basis weight and an advantageously higher tear resistance of the floor wiping cloth compared to the surface wiping cloth. The specified values for the thickness refer to the dry, single-layer (i.e. not folded or placed on top of one another) wiping cloth or base material. The thickness of the wiping cloth can be determined using a specific measuring pressure of 0.5 kPa on a probe area of 25 cm ^2. In particular, a DMT thickness gauge from Schröder can be used. Furthermore, the thickness can be determined in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9073-2: 1995.

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can have a basis weight of 40 g/m ² to 400 g/m ² . As a surface wiping cloth, it can advantageously have a basis weight of 50 g/m ² to 100 g/m ² , preferably 70 g/m ² to 90 g/m ² . As a floor wiping cloth, it can advantageously have a basis weight of 200 g/m ² to 400 g/m ² , preferably 220 g/m ² to 300 g/m ² . The stated values for the basis weight refer to the dry, single-layer (i.e. not folded or The basis weight can be determined in accordance with DIN EN 29073-1:1992, whereby the test specimens have an area of 100 cm ² instead of 500 cm ² .

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can have a density of 0.077 g/cm ³ to 0.104 g/cm ^3. The values given for the density refer to the dry wiping cloth or base material. The density can be determined from the basis weight and the thickness of the wiping cloth using the following formula: $$\mathrm{Density}\left[\mathrm{G}/{\mathrm{cm}}^3\right]=\mathrm{Basis\; weight}\left[\mathrm{G}/{\mathrm{m}}^2\right]/\left(\mathrm{thickness}\left[\mathrm{mm}\right]\times 1000\right)$$

The wipe, in particular the base material, can have a sinking time of a maximum of 10 seconds, preferably a maximum of 8 seconds and even more preferably a maximum of 5 seconds. The sinking time is a measure of how quickly the wipe can absorb liquid. A low sinking time can accelerate the cleaning or disinfection process. The sinking time is determined according to the test method described below.

The wipe, in particular the base material, can have a water retention capacity of at least 6 g/g, preferably at least 8 g/g and even more preferably at least 10 g/g. The water retention capacity is a measure of how much liquid can be absorbed by the wipe. The greater the water retention capacity, the more area can generally be cleaned and disinfected in one pass with the wipe. The water retention capacity is determined according to the test method described below.

The wipe, in particular the base material, can have a maximum degree of impregnation (maximum impregnation) of at least 600% by weight, preferably of at least 700% by weight and even more preferably of at least 800% by weight. The maximum degree of impregnation is, like the water retention capacity, a measure of how much liquid can be absorbed by the wipe. The greater the maximum degree of impregnation, the more area can generally be cleaned and disinfected in one pass with the wipe. The maximum degree of impregnation is determined according to the test method described below.

The wipe, in particular the base material, can have a surface performance of at least 16 m ² , preferably at least 18 m ² and even more preferably at least 20 m ² . These values refer to the floor wipe. The surface performance is a measure of how much area can be cleaned and disinfected in one go with the liquid-soaked wipe. The surface performance depends on the water retention capacity, the degree of impregnation and the surface weight, among other things. The surface performance is determined according to the test method described below.

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can have a tear strength in the longitudinal direction (machine direction, MD) of 25 N/25 mm to 40 N/25 mm as a surface wiping cloth and in the transverse direction (across the machine direction, CD) of also 25 N/25 mm to 40 N/25 mm. For the floor wiping cloth, the values are advantageously 50 N/25 mm to 80 N/25 mm (MD) and 70 N/25 mm to 90 N/25 mm (CD). The tear strength is a measure of the stability of the wiping cloth. A high tear strength ensures that the wiping cloth remains intact during wiping and cleaning. The tear strength is determined according to the test method described below.

The wipe, in particular the base material, can have a compatibility with a disinfectant comprising a quaternary ammonium compound as an antimicrobial agent of at least 80%, preferably at least 85% and particularly preferably at least 90%. Thus, after 24 hours of contact of the wipe, in particular the base material, with the disinfectant, at least 80%, preferably at least 85% and particularly preferably at least 90% of an initial concentration of the antimicrobial agent is still contained in the disinfectant. The compatibility can refer to the quaternary ammonium compound benzylalkyldimethylammonium chloride (BAC) and can be determined according to the test method described below.

The wiping cloth, in particular the base material, can have a friction coefficient of maximum 0.7 in the longitudinal direction and of maximum 0.6 in the transverse direction. A lower limit for the friction coefficient in both the longitudinal and transverse directions can be 0.4. The aforementioned values can refer to the static and/or dynamic, in particular only the static, friction coefficient. In addition, the aforementioned values refer in particular to the floor wiping cloth. The friction coefficient is a measure of the sliding ability of the wiping cloth. The lower its value, the easier the wiping cloth can be moved over a surface. With a The lower coefficient of friction means that the cleaning process with the wiper requires less force from the user. The coefficient of friction is determined using the test method described below.

The regenerated cellulose fibers can contain a cationic starch for the positive charge. The starch is in particular spun into a matrix of the regenerated cellulose fibers so that it cannot detach from the fibers. In other words, the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers can be fibers comprising or consisting of a regenerated cellulose and a cationic starch, in particular a mixture of a regenerated cellulose and a cationic starch. The regenerated cellulose is preferably viscose. The cationic starch is preferably (3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl)trimethylammonium chloride modified starch (systematic name: starch, 2-hydroxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propyl ether, chloride; CAS No. 56780-58-6 ). Such positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres are from the US 5,542,955 A (see example 2) and is commercially available under the name Danufil ^® QR (Kelheim Fibres, Kelheim, Germany).

The melt-binding fibers are preferably bicomponent fibers. These typically consist of a low-melting polymer component and a higher-melting polymer component, which preferably have a sheath-core arrangement. The sheath is formed by the low-melting component. The core is formed by the higher-melting component. The terms "low" and "higher" are to be understood with reference to the respective other polymer component.

The melt-binding fibers can consist of polyesters, polyolefins (such as polypropylene or polyethylene), polyamides or mixtures thereof. The melt-binding fibers preferably consist of polyesters, in particular polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene terephthalate-co-isophthalate. The latter copolymer has a melting point of 110 °C, which is significantly lower than that of PET (approx. 255 °C). The previously described sheath could therefore be formed by the copolymer. The previously described core could then be formed by the PET. It is also conceivable that the melt-binding fibers consist of polylactides (PLA).

The microfibers can have a fiber fineness of 1 dtex or less, in particular 0.9 dtex or less. The finer the fibers, the better the cleaning performance of the wiping cloth is generally. The microfibers can consist of a polyester, a polyolefin (such as polypropylene or polyethylene) or a polyamide. The microfibers are preferably made of a polyester, in particular polyethylene terephthalate. It is also conceivable that the microfibers consist of a polylactide.

The present invention also relates to a dispenser comprising one or more wipes according to the invention in all embodiments described in the present application and combinations thereof. The dispenser can be similar to, for example, WO 2008/122961 A1 shown comprise a bag, in particular a flowpack packaging. However, the dispenser can also be similar to the EP 2 727 507 A2 shown a container, in particular a bucket. The wipes are contained in the bag or container. The dispenser can protect the wipes from contamination and represent an easy-to-use storage option for the wipes, which can ideally be resealed after the first opening. According to the invention, the dispenser contains a QAC-containing disinfectant (for example by filling the bag or container of the dispenser with a disinfectant), so that the previously mentioned pre-moistened wipes can be obtained. Such a dispenser can then also be referred to as a wet wipe dispenser.

Furthermore, a cleaning device, in particular a mop, with a wiping cloth according to the invention is disclosed in all embodiments described in the present application and their combinations. The cleaning device comprises in particular a handle and a holder or holder for the wiping cloth. In order to be able to easily attach the wiping cloth to the holder, it advantageously has two pockets. These can be formed by folding the wiping cloth or its base material over at two opposite ends and sewing or ultrasonically welding the resulting two-layer area at the edge. Accordingly, in a further embodiment of the invention, the floor wiping cloth can have two pockets for attachment to a cleaning device, in particular a wiping mop.

Furthermore, a non-therapeutic use of a wipe according to the invention according to the embodiments described in the present application and their combinations for cleaning and/or disinfecting objects and/or inanimate surfaces is disclosed. The use takes place in particular in the medical field, especially in a hospital. The objects can accordingly be medical devices and furnishings that are usually found in patient rooms, treatment rooms and operating rooms in hospitals, which must be regularly wiped and disinfected (such as a hospital bed). The surfaces can be part of the aforementioned devices and furnishings or floor surfaces.

1. i. Bereitstellen einer Fasermischung umfassend oder bestehend aus
   • 35 Gew.-% bis 75 Gew.-% positiv geladenen Regenerat-Cellulosefasern,
   • 15 Gew.-% bis 55 Gew.-% synthetischen Schmelzbindefasern,
   • 5 Gew.-% bis 35 Gew.-% synthetischen Mikrofasern.
2. ii. Verfestigen der Fasermischung durch Vernadelung mittels Hochdruckwasserstrahlen (Spunlace-Verfahren) sowie durch partielles Schmelzen der Schmelzbindefasern, wobei ein flüssigkeitsspeicherndes Grundmaterial, insbesondere Vliesstoff-Grundmaterial, des Wischtuches gebildet wird.
3. iii. Optional Prägen des Grundmaterials, so dass das Grundmaterial mit einem Prägemuster versehen ist. Vorteilhafterweise erfolgt die Prägung dabei mittels Heißkalander.
4. iv. Optional Aufbringen einer abrasiven Beschichtung auf das Grundmaterial.
5. v. Optional Ausbilden von zwei Taschen zur Befestigung an einer Reinigungsvorrichtung, insbesondere einem Wischmopp, wobei die Taschen durch Vernähen des Grundmaterials oder durch Ultraschallschweißen des Grundmaterials ausgebildet werden.

Finally, the invention relates to a method for producing a wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or surfaces. The method comprises the following steps:

1. i. Providing a fibre mixture comprising or consisting of
   • 35 wt.% to 75 wt.% positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres,
   • 15 wt.% to 55 wt.% synthetic melt binding fibres,
   • 5 wt% to 35 wt% synthetic microfibers.
2. ii. Solidifying the fiber mixture by needling using high-pressure water jets (spunlace process) and by partially melting the melt-binding fibers, whereby a liquid-storing base material, in particular nonwoven base material, of the wipe is formed.
3. iii. Optionally embossing the base material so that the base material is provided with an embossed pattern. The embossing is advantageously carried out using a hot calender.
4. iv. Optional application of an abrasive coating to the base material.
5. v. Optionally forming two pockets for attachment to a cleaning device, in particular a mop, wherein the pockets are formed by sewing the base material or by ultrasonic welding of the base material.

For carrying out the individual steps, conventional techniques known to the person skilled in the art from the field of textile production, in particular nonwoven fabric production, such as the use of embossing rollers (with reference to step iii.), the screen printing process or the gravure printing process (with reference to step iv.) can be used. A synthetic thread (plastic thread) can be used as suture material to sew the base material.

The proposed method can also be used to produce the preferred embodiments of the wipe described in the present application (and combinations thereof). The wipes produced by this method thus optionally have the features of the previously described preferred embodiments of the wipe according to the invention.

Examples and figures

The examples and figures described below are intended to explain and illustrate the invention in more detail.

Manufacturing of wipes

Four different wipes were produced for cleaning and disinfecting floor surfaces in the medical field. For this purpose, the fiber blends shown in Table 1 were first produced. Table 1: Fiber blends Fibre material Fibre blend 1 for wipe 1 [wt.%] Fibre blend 2 for wipe 2 [wt.%] Fibre blend 3 for wipe 3 [wt.%] Fibre blend 4 for wipe 4 [wt.%] Cotton fibers 50 - - - positively charged viscose fibres - 50 55 60 Bicomponent polyester fibres 44 44 30 20 Polyester microfibers 6 6 15 20

Accordingly, fiber blend 1 consisted of 50 wt.% cotton fibers, 44 wt.% bicomponent fibers and 6 wt.% microfibers.

Fiber blend 2 consisted of 50 wt.% positively charged viscose fibers, 44 wt.% bicomponent fibers and 6 wt.% microfibers.

Fiber blend 3 consisted of 55 wt.% positively charged viscose fibers, 30 wt.% bicomponent fibers and 15 wt.% microfibers.

Fiber blend 4 consisted of 60 wt% positively charged viscose fibers, 20 wt% bicomponent fibers and 20 wt% microfibers.

The positively charged viscose fibres were the previously mentioned Danufil ^® QR fibres from Kelheim Fibres (Kelheim, Germany).

The bicomponent fibers had a sheath-core arrangement, with the sheath consisting of polyethylene terephthalate-co-isophthalate and the core consisting of polyethylene terephthalate. The microfibers had a fiber fineness of 0.9 dtex and consisted of polyethylene terephthalate.

The fiber mixtures were processed into wadding fleece layers. These were consolidated by high-pressure water jet needling (spunlace process) and partial melting of the bicomponent fibers. The consolidated fleece layers were coated with an abrasive coating of ethylene vinyl acetate as in Figure 1 In addition, a variant of wipe 3 was also produced for the gliding ability test, which was equipped with a rod-shaped embossed pattern as in Figure 3 The solidified and optionally coated and embossed fleece layers formed the wipes, which, as already mentioned, were intended as floor wipes.

Wipe 1 is not a wipe according to the invention because it does not contain any positively charged regenerated cellulose fibers. Wipe 1 serves only as a control or comparison sample. Wipes 2 to 4, on the other hand, are wipes according to the invention. The previously mentioned nonwoven layers of wipes 2 to 4 represent the base material according to the claims.

Wipes 1 to 4 were tested for sinking time, water retention capacity, maximum soaking level, area performance, tear resistance and compatibility with a disinfectant containing QAC. Wipes 2 to 4 were also tested for their slip properties. The tests are explained in more detail below before the test results are discussed.

Test for sinking time and water retention capacity

1. i. Aus dem Wischtuch wird Probenmaterial mit einem Stanzmesser (10 x 10 cm) gestanzt.
2. ii. Ein leerer, zylindrischer Drahtkorb aus Kupferdraht (Durchmesser des Drahts: 0,4 mm; Höhe des Korbs: 8 cm; Durchmesser des Korbs: 5 cm; Maschenweite des Korbs: 1,5 - 2 cm) wird gewogen (m₁).
3. iii. Mindestens 5 g Probenmaterial werden in den Korb eingelegt. Der mit Probenmaterial gefüllte Korb wird erneut gewogen (m₂).
4. iv. Ein Becherglas (Durchmesser: 11 - 12 cm) wird mit demineralisiertem Wasser bis zu einer Höhe von etwa 10 cm befüllt.
5. v. Der Korb wird aus einer Höhe von 10 cm horizontal auf das Wasser fallen gelassen.
6. vi. Mit einer Stoppuhr wird die Zeit bis zum Absinken des Korbes unter die Wasseroberfläche gemessen. Dies ist die Absinkdauer.
7. vii. Unmittelbar nach dem Absinken des Korbes unter die Wasseroberfläche wird der Korb aus dem Wasser gehoben und zum Abtropfen 30 Sekunden lang in seiner Längsachse horizontal gehalten.
8. viii. Nach dem Abtropfen wird der Korb in ein Becherglas mit der Masse m₃ gegeben und ein letztes Mal gewogen (m₄).

The test method for determining the settling time and water retention capacity is running as follows:

1. i. Sample material is punched out of the wipe using a punch knife (10 x 10 cm).
2. ii. An empty cylindrical wire basket made of copper wire (wire diameter: 0.4 mm; basket height: 8 cm; basket diameter: 5 cm; basket mesh size: 1.5 - 2 cm) is weighed (m ₁ ).
3. iii. At least 5 g of sample material is placed in the basket. The basket filled with sample material is weighed again (m ₂ ).
4. iv. A beaker (diameter: 11 - 12 cm) is filled with demineralized water to a height of about 10 cm.
5. v. The basket is dropped horizontally onto the water from a height of 10 cm.
6. vi. A stop watch is used to measure the time until the basket sinks below the water surface. This is the sinking time.
7. vii. Immediately after the basket has sunk below the water surface, the basket is lifted out of the water and held horizontally along its long axis for 30 seconds to allow it to drain.
8. viii. After draining, the basket is placed in a beaker of mass m ₃ and weighed one last time (m ₄ ).

• Wasserhaltevermögen in $$\frac{\mathrm{g}}{\mathrm{g}}=\frac{\mathrm{m4}-\left(\mathrm{m2}+\mathrm{m3}\right)}{\mathrm{m2}-\mathrm{m1}}$$
• Nimmt zum Beispiel im obigen Test 5 g trockenes Probenmaterial (m₂ - m₁) 30 g Wasser (m₄ - (m₂ + m₃)) auf, so ergibt sich ein Wasserhaltevermögen von 6 g/g.

The water retention capacity in g/g is then calculated using the following formula:

• Water retention capacity in $$\frac{\mathrm{G}}{\mathrm{G}}=\frac{\mathrm{m4}-\left(\mathrm{m2}+\mathrm{m3}\right)}{\mathrm{m2}-\mathrm{m1}}$$
• For example, if in the above test 5 g of dry sample material (m ₂ - m ₁ ) absorbs 30 g of water (m ₄ - (m ₂ + m ₃ )), the water holding capacity is 6 g/g.

The settling time and the water retention capacity are given as the mean value of three determinations.

Maximum impregnation level test

1. i. Das trockene Wischtuch wird gewogen (m₁).
2. ii. Das Wischtuch wird in ein mit demineralisiertem Wasser gefüllten Behälter eingebracht. Dort verbleibt das Wischtuch für circa 10 Minuten, damit es bis zur Sättigung mit Wasser getränkt ist.
3. iii. Dann wird das Wischtuch aus dem Wasserbehälter entfernt und für 30 Sekunden abtropfen gelassen.
4. iv. Abschließend wird das feuchte Wischtuch gewogen (m₂).

The test method for determining the maximum degree of impregnation (maximum impregnation) is as follows:

1. i. The dry wipe is weighed (m ₁ ).
2. ii. The wipe is placed in a container filled with demineralized water. The wipe is left there for approximately 10 minutes so that it is saturated with water.
3. iii. Then remove the wipe from the water tank and allow it to drain for 30 seconds.
4. iv. Finally, the wet wipe is weighed (m ₂ ).

The maximum degree of impregnation in wt.% is then calculated using the following formula: $$\mathrm{maximum}\mathrm{Soaking\; level}\mathrm{in}\mathrm{\%}=\left(\frac{\mathrm{m2}-\mathrm{m1}}{\mathrm{m1}}\right)\times 100$$ For example, if in the above test a dry wipe weighing 5 g (m ₁ ) absorbs 30 g of water (m ₂ - m ₁ ), the maximum impregnation level is 600 wt.%.

The maximum degree of impregnation is given as the mean of three determinations.

Area performance test

1. i. Das Wischtuch mit den Abmessungen 13 cm x 43 cm wird bis zur Sättigung mit demineralisiertem Wasser getränkt (wie bei der Prüfmethode für die Bestimmung des maximalen Tränkungsgrades) und danach für 30 Sekunden abtropfen gelassen.
2. ii. Das Wischtuch wird auf einen Mopp-Halter aufgespannt.
3. iii. Dann werden die folgenden Bodenflächen mit dem Wischmopp nacheinander gewischt:
   1. a. Kunststoffboden, circa 10,3 m² ("Labor")
   2. b. glanzpolierte Natursteinfliesen, circa 6,7 m² ("Flur")
   3. c. seidenmatte Steingutfliesen, circa 6,9 m² ("Toilette")
   Sobald der geschlossene Flüssigkeitsfilm dabei abreißt, gilt der Test als beendet. Die bis dahin gewischte Bodenfläche ist die Flächenleistung. Eine Flächenleistung von 24 m² bedeutet vorliegend, dass die Testbodenflächen a, b und c vollständig mit dem Wischtuch ohne ein Abreißen des Flüssigkeitsfilmes gewischt werden konnten. Bei ausreichender Restfeuchtigkeit des Wischtuches nach dem Wischen der Bodenflächen a bis c wird die Testbodenfläche b ("Flur") bis zum Abreißen des geschlossenen Flüssigkeitsfilmes weitergewischt und die gewischte Fläche nachfolgend bestimmt.

The test method for determining the area performance is defined by the following protocol:

1. i. The wiping cloth measuring 13 cm x 43 cm is soaked with demineralised water until saturated (as in the test method for determining the maximum degree of impregnation) and then allowed to drip dry for 30 seconds.
2. ii. The mop cloth is placed on a mop holder.
3. iii. Then the following floor areas are mopped one after the other with the mop:
   1. a. Plastic floor, approximately 10.3 m ² ("Laboratory")
   2. b. polished natural stone tiles, approx. 6.7 m ² ("hallway")
   3. c. silk-matt earthenware tiles, approx. 6.9 m ² ("toilet")
   As soon as the closed liquid film breaks off, the test is considered to be finished. The floor area mopped up to that point is the area performance. An area performance of 24 m ² means that the test floor areas a, b and c could be completely mopped with the wiper without the liquid film breaking off. If the wiper has sufficient residual moisture after wiping the floor areas a to c, the test floor area b ("corridor") is wiped until the liquid film breaks off. The wiped area is then determined after the liquid film has closed.

With this test method, particular attention is paid to ensuring that it is always carried out by the same person and in the same way. The area performance is given as the average of at least three determinations.

Tear resistance test

1. i. Aus dem Wischtuch wird eine Probe mit einer Breite von 25 mm und einer Länge von mindestens 30 mm, vorzugsweise von 50 mm, ausgestanzt. Dabei kann die Probe entweder in Längsrichtung (Maschinenrichtung, MD) oder Querrichtung (quer zur Maschinenrichtung, CD) gestanzt werden.
2. ii. Der Probenstreifen wird lotrecht und spannungsfrei in den Klemmen einer Zugprüfmaschine (gemäß DIN 51221) mit einer Einspannbreite von 25 mm und einer Einspannlänge (der Abstand zwischen den Klemmen) von 30 mm fixiert.
3. iii. Dann wird der Probenstreifen mit einer Geschwindigkeit von 100 mm/min in der Ebene seiner Erstreckung auseinanderbewegt. Dabei wird die in dieser Richtung wirkende Zugkraft gemessen. Unter der Reißfestigkeit wird diejenige maximale Kraft verstanden, bei der der Probenstreifen zerreißt. Die Angabe erfolgt in N/25mm. Wenn zuvor höhere Kraftspitzen im Zuge der Dehnung gemessen werden, so stellen diese die Reißfestigkeit im Sinne dieser Prüfung dar.

The test method for determining the tear strength (maximum tensile force) is as follows:

1. i. A sample of 25 mm width and at least 30 mm length, preferably 50 mm, is punched from the wipe. The sample may be punched in either the longitudinal direction (machine direction, MD) or the transverse direction (cross machine direction, CD).
2. ii. The sample strip is fixed vertically and stress-free in the clamps of a tensile testing machine (according to DIN 51221) with a clamping width of 25 mm and a clamping length (the distance between the clamps) of 30 mm.
3. iii. The sample strip is then moved apart at a speed of 100 mm/min in the plane of its extension. The tensile force acting in this direction is measured. The tear strength is the maximum force at which the sample strip tears. It is given in N/25mm. If higher force peaks are measured beforehand during the stretching process, these represent the tear strength for the purposes of this test.

The tear strength is given as the average of five determinations using samples from different areas or across the entire width of the wiper.

Test for compatibility with a disinfectant containing QAC

1. i. Das Wischtuch wird in Anlehnung an die DIN 53923:1978-01 getränkt. Dabei wird das Wischtuch in eine Desinfektionswanne gelegt, welche anschließend mit einem Desinfektionsmittel (Mikrobac forte; Bode Chemie, Hamburg, Deutschland) befüllt wird. Das Wischtuch wird dabei mit einem Drahtnetz aus nichtrostendem Stahl beschwert, so dass es stets von der Flüssigkeit bedeckt ist und nicht auf der Flüssigkeitsoberfläche schwimmt. Das Desinfektionsmittel enthält Benzylalkyldimethylammoniumchlorid (BAC) als quartäre Ammoniumverbindung in einer Konzentration von 0,1 %.
2. ii. Nach einer Einwirkzeit von 60 Sekunden werden sowohl das Drahtnetz als auch das Wischtuch aus der Desinfektionswanne entnommen. Das Wischtuch wird für 120 Sekunden abtropfen gelassen.
3. iii. Unmittelbar danach wird das feuchte Wischtuch in eine zweite, leere Desinfektionswanne gelegt und die Wanne mit einem Deckel verschlossen. Dort verbleibt das Wischtuch für einen Zeitraum von 24 Stunden.
4. iv. Nach Ablauf der 24-stündigen Einwirkzeit wird das Wischtuch aus der Wanne entnommen. Das Wischtuch wird ausgewrungen. Die dabei von dem Wischtuch freigegebene Flüssigkeit (im Folgenden als "Prüflösung" bezeichnet) wird aufgefangen und für die nachfolgende Analyse verwendet.
5. v. Es wird eine HPLC-Analyse unter folgenden Bedingungen durchgeführt:
   • HPLC-Gerät: Agilent Technologies 1200 Series
   • stationäre Phase: Kieselgel RP-8 (Säule von Macherey-Nagel, Bezeichnung "150/4.6 Nucleodur 100-5 C8 ec"; erwärmt auf 40 °C)
   • mobile Phase: 65 % bidestilliertes Wasser und 35 % Acetonitril (Wasser und Acetonitril jeweils mit 0,1 % Phosphorsäure versetzt)
   • Druck: 130 bar
   • Volumenstrom: 1,5 ml/min
   • Probeninjektion: 0,02 ml/Probe
   • vermessenes Probenmaterial:
     • Probe 1: Probe mit BAC in bekannter Menge als externer Standard
     • Probe 2: Probe des verwendeten Desinfektionsmittels ohne Kontakt mit dem Wischtuch
     • Probe 3: Prüflösung

The test method for determining compatibility with a disinfectant containing QAC is as follows:

1. i. The wipe is soaked in accordance with DIN 53923:1978-01. The wipe is placed in a disinfection tub, which is then filled with a disinfectant (Mikrobac forte; Bode Chemie, Hamburg, Germany). The wipe is weighted down with a wire net made of stainless steel so that it is always covered by the liquid and does not lie on the Liquid surface floats. The disinfectant contains benzylalkyldimethylammonium chloride (BAC) as a quaternary ammonium compound in a concentration of 0.1%.
2. ii. After a contact time of 60 seconds, both the wire mesh and the wipe are removed from the disinfection tank. The wipe is left to drip dry for 120 seconds.
3. iii. Immediately afterwards, the wet wipe is placed in a second, empty disinfection tub and the tub is closed with a lid. The wipe remains there for a period of 24 hours.
4. iv. After the 24-hour exposure time, the wipe is removed from the tub. The wipe is wrung out. The liquid released from the wipe (hereinafter referred to as the "test solution") is collected and used for subsequent analysis.
5. v. HPLC analysis is carried out under the following conditions:
   • HPLC instrument: Agilent Technologies 1200 Series
   • stationary phase: silica gel RP-8 (column from Macherey-Nagel, designation "150/4.6 Nucleodur 100-5 C8 ec"; heated to 40 °C)
   • mobile phase: 65% bidistilled water and 35% acetonitrile (water and acetonitrile each mixed with 0.1% phosphoric acid)
   • Pressure: 130 bar
   • Volume flow: 1.5 ml/min
   • Sample injection: 0.02 ml/sample
   • measured sample material:
     • Sample 1: Sample with BAC in known amount as external standard
     • Sample 2: Sample of the disinfectant used without contact with the wipe
     • Sample 3: Test solution

The results of the HPLC analysis can be used to accurately determine the BAC concentration of the disinfectant without contact with the wipe (BAC concentration of sample 2) and the BAC concentration of the disinfectant after 24 hours of contact with the wipe (BAC concentration of sample 3 or the test solution). The QAC compatibility is then determined using the following formula: $$\mathrm{QAV}\mathrm{compatibility}\mathrm{in}\mathrm{\%}=\left(\frac{\mathrm{BAC}\mathrm{concentration}\mathrm{sample}\mathrm{3}}{\mathrm{BAC}\mathrm{concentration}\mathrm{sample}\mathrm{2}}\right)\times 100$$

The values for QAC compatibility indicate what percentage of the quaternary ammonium compound BAC is still contained in the disinfectant after 24 hours of contact with the wipe. The values therefore refer to the free QAC amount of the disinfectant that is still available for disinfection in relation to its initial concentration.

The QAV compatibility is given as the mean of two determinations.

Gliding ability test

1. i. Eine Platte aus PVC wird auf einem Probentisch befestigt. Die PVC-Platte entspricht einem üblichen PVC-Fußboden wie er beispielsweise in Patientenzimmern in Krankenhäusern häufig vorzufinden ist.
2. ii. Aus dem Wischtuch wird eine Probe (120 mm x 80 mm) entnommen.
3. iii. Die Probe wird für eine Minute in Mikrobac forte 0,5 % (Bode Chemie, Hamburg, Deutschland) eingelegt und anschließend für zwei Minuten abtropfen gelassen. Mikrobac forte ist ein Flächendesinfektionsmittel und enthält wie bereits erwähnt Benzylalkyldimethylammoniumchlorid (BAC) als quartäre Ammoniumverbindung. Die zuvor genannte Konzentrationsangabe von 0,5 % bezieht sich hierbei auf die Menge des vom Hersteller gelieferten Konzentrates in der anwendungsfertigen Lösung (das heißt 5 ml Konzentrat werden mit 995 ml Wasser verdünnt). Dabei beträgt die BAC-Konzentration der anwendungsfertigen Lösung dann 0,1 % (wie bei dem Test zur QAV Kompatibilität).
4. iv. Die Probe wird auf die PVC-Platte gelegt und mit einem Reibklotz von bestimmten Abmessungen und einem bestimmten Gewicht belastet. Dabei wird die zum Wischen vorgesehenen Seite des Wischtuches (also die zum Bodenkontakt vorgesehene Seite) mit der PVC-Platte in Kontakt gebracht.
5. v. Die Probe wird mittels einer Schnur mit der Klemme einer Zugprüfmaschine verbunden und einer gleichförmigen Relativbewegung ausgesetzt (Einspannlänge 30 mm; Geschwindigkeit 100 mm/min).
6. vi. Der Reibungswiderstand, der bei der Reibbeanspruchung zwischen der PVC-Platte und der Probe entsteht, wird mit Hilfe eines Kraftmessaufnehmers aufgezeichnet und anschließend in den statischen Reibungskoeffizient µ_S oder dynamischen Reibungskoeffizient µ_D umgerechnet. Die Reibungskoeffizienten sind bekanntlich dimensionslose Größen. Bei einem Reibungskoeffizienten von 0 würde üblicherweise keine Haftung stattfinden. Bei einem Reibungskoeffizienten von 1 würde üblicherweise hingegen eine vollständige Haftung stattfinden, so dass keine Bewegung der Probe entlang der PVC-Platte möglich wäre.

The sliding ability is determined in accordance with DIN EN ISO 8295:2004-10. The test procedure can be briefly summarized as follows:

1. i. A PVC plate is attached to a sample table. The PVC plate corresponds to a standard PVC floor such as that often found in patient rooms in hospitals.
2. ii. A sample (120 mm x 80 mm) is taken from the wipe.
3. iii. The sample is placed in Mikrobac forte 0.5% (Bode Chemie, Hamburg, Germany) for one minute and then allowed to drip off for two minutes. Mikrobac forte is a surface disinfectant and, as already mentioned, contains benzylalkyldimethylammonium chloride (BAC) as a quaternary ammonium compound. The previously mentioned concentration of 0.5% refers to the amount of concentrate supplied by the manufacturer in the ready-to-use solution (i.e. 5 ml concentrate is diluted with 995 ml water). The BAC concentration of the ready-to-use solution is then 0.1% (as in the QAV compatibility test).
4. iv. The sample is placed on the PVC plate and loaded with a rubbing block of specific dimensions and weight. The side of the wiping cloth intended for wiping (i.e. the side intended for contact with the floor) is brought into contact with the PVC plate.
5. v. The sample is connected to the clamp of a tensile testing machine by means of a cord and subjected to a uniform relative movement (clamping length 30 mm; speed 100 mm/min).
6. vi. The frictional resistance that arises during the frictional stress between the PVC sheet and the sample is recorded using a force transducer and then converted into the static friction coefficient µ _S or dynamic friction coefficient µ _D. The friction coefficients are known to be dimensionless quantities. With a friction coefficient of 0, there would normally be no adhesion. With a friction coefficient of 1, on the other hand, there would normally be complete adhesion, so that no movement of the sample along the PVC plate would be possible.

The test method is carried out at 23 ± 2 °C and 50 ± 5 % relative humidity.

The sliding ability is determined in a similar way to the tear resistance in the longitudinal and transverse directions. "Longitudinal direction" means that the test direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the wipe. Accordingly, "transverse direction" means that the test direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the wipe. In addition, the sliding ability is determined from the resting position (static friction coefficient µ _S ) and (only) in motion (dynamic friction coefficient µ _D ). The values given for the friction coefficient are averages of triplicate measurements of the respective sample.

• als Oberfläche wird eine PVC-Platte ("PVC-Fußboden") verwendet
• die Abmessung der Probe beträgt lediglich 120 mm x 80 mm
• die Probe wird mit einem Desinfektionsmittel beaufschlagt und daher in einem feuchten Zustand getestet
• Anzahl der Proben: n = 2 je Wischtuch (1 x längs, 1 x quer)

The test method differs from the standard mentioned (DIN EN ISO 8295:2004-10) in the following points:

• A PVC board ("PVC floor") is used as the surface
• the dimensions of the sample are only 120 mm x 80 mm
• the sample is treated with a disinfectant and therefore tested in a moist state
• Number of samples: n = 2 per wipe (1 x lengthwise, 1 x crosswise)

Test results

Table 2 summarizes the results of the tests regarding the sinking time, water retention capacity, maximum impregnation level, area performance, tear resistance and QAV compatibility. Table 2 also lists the thicknesses and the basis weights. The values for area performance refer to the wipes with the abrasive coating (if present). Otherwise, the values refer to the fleece layers (the base material) of the wipes without an abrasive coating. None of the wipes in Table 2 had an embossed pattern (i.e. all values in Table 2 refer to wipes or fleece layers without an embossed pattern). Table 2: Test results parameter Wipe 1 (50% cotton, 44% bicomponent fibers, 6% microfibers) Wipe 2 (50% positively charged viscose fibers, 44% bicomponent fibers, 6% microfibers) Wipe 3 (55% positively charged viscose fibers, 30% bicomponent fibers, 15% microfibers) Wipe 4 (60% positively charged viscose fibers, 20% bicomponent fibers, 20% microfibers) Thickness [mm] 2.3 2.9 3 2.9 Basis weight [g/m ² ] 256 250 272 269 Sinking time [sec] 10.9 3.4 2.3 2.8 Water retention capacity [g/g] 9.6 10.6 10.2 13.4 Max. degree of impregnation [wt.%] 851 829 784 799 Area performance [m ² ] 17 24 24 19 Tensile strength [N/25 mm] 68 (MD) 64 (MD) 52 (MD) 25 (MD) 77 (CD) 103 (CD) 79 (CD) 53 (CD) QAV Compatibility [%] 69 89.6 89.0 89.7

As can be seen from Table 2, the wipes 2 to 4 according to the invention have a significantly shorter sinking time than the control wipe 1. This means that the wipes according to the invention can absorb liquid much faster than the cotton-containing control wipe 1. This can accelerate the cleaning or disinfection process.

The water holding capacity of wipes 1 to 3 is approximately the same, meaning they can absorb approximately the same amount of liquid. Wipe 4 has a higher water holding capacity than the other three wipes, which can be attributed to the high proportion of absorbent fiber material.

The surface performance of the wipes 2 to 4 according to the invention is higher than that of the control wipe 1. In particular, the wipes 2 and 3 show a particularly high surface performance. With the wipes according to the invention, a larger area can therefore be cleaned and disinfected in one go.

The QAC compatibility is significantly better for wipes 2 to 4 according to the invention than for control wipe 1. For example, after an incubation of 24 hours, about 90% of the quaternary ammonium compound is still present in solution for wipes 2 to 4, whereas only 69% of the quaternary ammonium compound is still present in solution for control wipe 1. This means that the wipes according to the invention only bind about 10% of the quaternary ammonium compound within 24 hours, whereas the control wipe binds more than 30% in the same period. This difference is considered to be the main advantage of the wipes according to the invention over the cotton-containing control wipe, because it enables reliable disinfection with a QAC-containing disinfectant in the first place. The advantageous behavior compared to QAC-containing disinfectants works synergistically with the other advantageous properties of the wipe, as described above (rapid liquid absorption and storage capacity, good surface performance).

Abrasive coating

Figure 1 shows one side of a wipe according to the invention in a preferred embodiment. The wipe is intended as a floor wipe. A ruler is placed on the wipe to illustrate the proportions. You can see in Figure 1 in particular the abrasive coating of the wipe. This consists of a material that is usually used as a hot melt adhesive, namely ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The abrasive coating is designed in stripes, with the stripes having a grid-like pattern. The abrasive coating can further improve the cleaning performance of the wipe, which can be particularly advantageous when stubborn dirt needs to be removed.

Embossed pattern

The Figures 2 to 4 show in the upper half of the picture further preferred embodiments of floor wipes according to the invention. These are in addition to the already mentioned in connection with Figure 1 The abrasive coating described above is also provided with an embossed pattern. The course of the embossed pattern is shown in the lower half of the Figures 2 to 4 additionally in the form of (not to scale) technical drawings The patterns are formed by depressions on the side of the wipes intended for floor contact and are embossed into the wipes using appropriate rollers. The embossed pattern from Figure 2 is described here as diamond-shaped. The embossed pattern of Figure 3 is referred to here as rod-shaped, although as can be seen from the figure, this also includes point-shaped embossing. The last embossing pattern shown as an example from Figure 4 is referred to as honeycomb-shaped. As can be seen from the figures, the embossed patterns are comparatively fine or closely meshed. The side length of the Figure 2 shown diamonds are actually only about 2.4 mm. The lengths of the "rods" made of Figure 3 is actually only about 3.2 mm or 4 mm. The side lengths of the honeycombs made of Figure 4 are in reality only about 6 mm. With a full-surface embossed pattern as in the Figures 2 to 4 The sliding properties of the floor wipes can be improved. This is demonstrated by the experimental data described below.

The Figures 5a to 5d show the test results regarding the sliding properties graphically in the form of bar charts. Wipe 2 was neither equipped with an abrasive coating nor with an embossed pattern. Wipe 3 was tested in two versions. Once with an abrasive coating as in Figure 1 and without embossed pattern. The second variant had, in addition to the abrasive coating, a rod-shaped embossed pattern as in Figure 3 This means that the two variants of wipe 3 only differ in the presence of the rod-shaped embossing. Wipe 4, like wipe 3, had the abrasive coating made of Figure 1 and was unembossed (i.e., in terms of surface finish, it was designed like the first version of wipe 3). The Figures 5a to 5d The values for the coefficient of friction shown clearly refer to the wipes with the surface properties described above (and not just to their base material without any coating or embossing that may be present). As already mentioned, the results show that the sliding behavior of the wipes according to the invention can be improved by an embossed pattern, particularly in the transverse direction.

Claims (19)

1. Wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or surfaces, having a liquid-storing base material in the form of a fibre mixture, characterized in that the fibre mixture comprises:

   - 35% to 75% by weight of positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres,

   - 15% to 55% by weight of synthetic fusible binding fibres,

   - 5% to 35% by weight of synthetic microfibres.
2. Wipe according to Claim 1, wherein the wipe has an abrasive coating, preferably an abrasive coating in strip form with in particular a lattice-like patterning.
3. Wipe according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the wipe

   - consists of the base material, the abrasive coating, optionally a liquid disinfectant and optionally a stitch material, or

   - consists of the base material, optionally a liquid disinfectant and optionally a stitch material.
4. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base material contains no fibres composed of a naturally occurring polymer and, except for the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres, no fibres either that are based on a naturally occurring polymer.
5. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base material consists of the regenerated cellulose fibres, the fusible binding fibres and the microfibres.
6. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base material comprises

   - 40% to 65% by weight of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres,

   - 15% to 50% by weight of the synthetic fusible binding fibres and

   - 5% to 25% by weight of the synthetic microfibres.
7. Wipe according to any of Claims 1 to 5, wherein the base material comprises

   - 45% to 60% by weight of the positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres,

   - 15% to 35% by weight of the synthetic fusible binding fibres and

   - 10% to 25% by weight of the synthetic microfibres.
8. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base material takes the form of a nonwoven.
9. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base material is provided with an embossed pattern, preferably an embossed pattern in diamond, rod or honeycomb form.
10. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material,

    - has a thickness of 0.5 mm to 5 mm and/or

    - has a basis weight of 40 g/m² to 400 g/m² and/or

    - has a density of 0.077 g/cm³ to 0.104 g/cm³.
11. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material, has a sinking time of not more than 10 seconds, preferably of not more than 8 seconds and more preferably still of not more than 5 seconds.
12. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material,

    - has a water retention capacity of at least 6 g/g, preferably of at least 8 g/g and more preferably still of at least 10 g/g and/or

    - has a maximum saturation level of at least 600% by weight, preferably of at least 700% by weight and more preferably still of at least 800% by weight.
13. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material, has a surface coverage of at least 16 m², preferably of at least 18 m² and more preferably still of at least 20 m².
14. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material,

    - has a machine direction (MD) tensile strength of 25 N/25 mm to 40 N/25 mm and a cross direction (CD) tensile strength of 25 N/25 mm to 40 N/25 mm, or

    - has a machine direction (MD) tensile strength of 50 N/25 mm to 80 N/25 mm and a cross direction (CD) tensile strength of 70 N/25 mm to 90 N/25 mm.
15. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material, has a compatibility with a disinfectant comprising a quaternary ammonium compound as active antimicrobial ingredient of at least 80%, preferably of at least 85% and with particular preference of at least 90%, so that after 24-hour contact of the wipe, more particularly of the base material, with the disinfectant still at least 80%, preferably still at least 85% and with particular preference still at least 90% of an initial concentration of the active antimicrobial ingredient in the disinfectant is present.
16. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wipe, more particularly the base material, has a coefficient of friction of not more than 0.7 in machine direction and of not more than 0.6 in cross direction.
17. Wipe according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the regenerated cellulose fibres contain a cationic starch for the positive charging, the starch more particularly being incorporated by spinning in a matrix of the regenerated cellulose fibres.
18. Dispenser including one or more wipes according to any of the preceding claims and a disinfectant comprising a quaternary ammonium compound as active antimicrobial ingredient.
19. Process for producing a wipe for cleaning and disinfecting objects and/or surfaces, comprising the following steps:

    i. providing a fibre mixture comprising or consisting of

    - 35% to 75% by weight of positively charged regenerated cellulose fibres,

    - 15% to 55% by weight of synthetic fusible binding fibres,

    - 5% to 35% by weight of synthetic microfibres,

    ii. consolidating the fibre mixture by needling by means of high-pressure water jets and by partial melting of the fusible binding fibres, to form a liquid-storing base material of the wipe,

    iii. optionally embossing the base material, so that the base material is provided with an embossed pattern,

    iv. optionally applying an abrasive coating to the base material,

    v. optionally forming two pockets for attachment on a cleaning apparatus, more particularly a mop, the pockets being formed by stitching of the base material or by ultrasonic welding of the base material.