GB2571184A

GB2571184A - Liquid detergent composition comprising hypochlorite bleach

Info

Publication number: GB2571184A
Application number: GB1820648.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Eissa Hesham; Ibrahim Shaima; Nahla Elghandour
Original assignee: Henkel AG and Co KGaA
Current assignee: Henkel AG and Co KGaA
Priority date: 2017-12-20
Filing date: 2018-12-18
Publication date: 2019-08-21
Also published as: GB201820648D0

Abstract

A liquid detergent composition comprising at least one hypochlorite (which may be sodium hypochlorite) in an amount from 1.5 % to 3.0 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition. The composition may contain at least one silicate (which may be sodium silicate) in an amount from 0.05 % to 0.5 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition. The composition may contain at least one anionic surfactant of formula R1-O-(A-O)n-SO3-X+, wherein R1 is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted (C8-C20)-alkyl group, an aryl group or an (C8-C20)-alkylaryl group, A denotes ethane-1,2-diyl- or propane-1,2-diyl, n is an integer from 1 to 50 and X+ is a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation. The composition may comprise at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides, and furthermore, may comprise at least one builder substance (preferably a phosphonate e.g. ATMP N-oxide). A second aspect is directed towards a method of cleaning textiles using the liquid detergent of the first aspect.

Description

LIQUID DETERGENT COMPOSITION COMPRISING HYPOCHLORITE BLEACH

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid detergent composition comprising at least one hypochlorite and optionally at least one silicate, which provides premium cleaning properties and high suds while meeting the consumer’s expectation of a clean and hygienic smell. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to the use of such a liquid detergent composition for the cleaning of laundry, as well as a process for the cleaning of laundry using said liquid detergent composition.

BACKGROUND [0002] Bleaches are widely used in cleaning products to enhance the cleaning performance and stain removal. In fact, they are so well established in certain regions that the olfactory impression of bleaching agents is perceived to be an indication for the cleaning performance and hygienic effects of a detergent product. For these reasons, consumers even tend to additionally add bleach to a given detergent in an attempt to boost the cleaning performance or provide the subjective impression of cleanliness associated with the bleach smell. This is not only inconvenient for the end users but also creates problems, as the added bleach may unfavorably or even dangerously interact with components in the detergent used.

[0003] It is therefore an aim of the present disclosure to provide a liquid detergent composition that meets the long-felt consumers’ need for detergent products that give the expected impression of high cleaning performance and good hygienic effects. In addition, the detergent composition should be a high suds composition, as this is from the consumer’s perspective similarly connected to giving the impression of high cleaning performance, as well as safe and effective for consumer use.

[0004] It has been found that this can be achieved by a specific detergent composition that comprises, in addition to its conventional components, at least one hypochlorite in an amount sufficient to give the expected impression of cleanliness on the consumer’s side while at the same time being safe and effective. Such a detergent composition has the advantage of low production costs of the resulting detergent formulation and allows for market placement at customer-friendly and -acceptable prices.

BRIEF SUMMARY [0005] Accordingly, in a first aspect the present disclosure relates to a iquid detergent composition comprising:

a) at least one hypochlorite, preferably sodium hypochlorite, in an amount of from about 1.5 % to about 3.0 % by weight, preferably 1.8 % to about 2.2 % by weight, or more preferably from about 1.9% to about 2.1 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition, and

b) optionally at least one silicate, preferably sodium silicate, in an amount of from about 0.05 % to about 0.5 % by weight, preferably from about 0.1 to about 0.3 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

[0006] Preferably, the at least one silicate is (a) present in an amount of from about 0.2 to about 0.25 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition; and/or (b) is an alkaline sodium silicate with a weight ratio of SiO2:Na2O in the range of from about 2.0:1 to about 2.85:1, or from about 2.0:1 to about 2.2:1.

[0007] The liquid detergent composition may further comprise at least one, and preferably two or more other substance selected from surfactants, detergency builders, other bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, enzymes, non-aqueous solvents, pH adjusting agents, perfumes, fluorescing agents, dyes, hydrotopes, silicone oils, anti-redeposition agents, anti-gray agents, shrinkage preventers, wrinkle protection agents, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial active substances, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing adjuvants, proofing and impregnation agents, swelling and anti-slip agents, softening compounds, complexing agents and UV absorbers.

[0008] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition comprises at least one surfactant in an amount of from about 1 to about 20 wt.%, or from about 1.5 to about 10.0 wt.% of said liquid detergent composition.

[0009] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I)

Ri_O-(A-O)n-SO₃ - X⁺ (I) wherein

Ri is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted (C8-C20)-alkyl group, an aryl group or an (C8-C20)-alkylaryl group, preferably an unsubstituted (C8-C20)-alkyl group

A is ethane-1,2-diyl- or propane-1,2-diyl, preferably ethane-1-2-diyl, n is an integer from about 1 to about 50, preferably from about 1 to about 20, or more preferably from about 2 to about 10, or 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8, X⁺is a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation.

[0010] Preferably, the at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I) is present in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 7.0 % by weight, and more preferably from about 1.5 to about 6.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0011] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides. Preferably, the at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides is present in an amount of from about 0 to about 5.0 wt.-%, preferably from about 0.5 to about 3.0 wt.-% of the composition.

[0012] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one builder substance. Preferably, the at least one builder substance is or comprises a phosphonate. The phoephonate is preferably selected from 1-hydroxyethane-1,1diphosphonate (HEDP), ethylenediamine “'tetramethylene phosphonate (EDTMP), diethylenetriamine “pentamethylene phosphonate (DTPMP), lysine tetramethylene phosphonate (LTMP) and aminotrimethylene phosphonate (ATMP) including its N oxidized derivative ATMP N-oxide, most preferably ATMP N-oxide. Preferably, the at least one builder substance is present in amounts of from about 0.01 to about 10.0 wt.-%, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 5.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0013] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition is an aqueous liquid laundry detergent composition.

[0014] In a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for cleaning textiles, wherein a washing liquor comprising the liquid detergent composition as described supra contacts the textile in at least one method step.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0015] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure or the application and uses of the subject matter as described herein. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or the following detailed description.

[0016] In a first aspect, the present disclosure thus relates to a liquid detergent composition comprising:

a) at least one hypochlorite, preferably sodium hypochlorite, in an amount of from about 1.5 % to about 3.0 % by weight, preferably from about 1.8 to about 2.2 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition, and

[0017] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for cleaning textiles, wherein a washing liquor comprising the liquid detergent composition of the disclosure contacts the textile in at least one method step.

[0018] “At least one”, as used herein, relates to one or more, such as 2, 3, 4, 5 or more. In relation to a compound or group of compounds, this means that at least one type of compound of said group is present. As a specific example, “at least one hypochlorite” may mean sodium hypochlorite alone or in combination with other hypochlorites, such as potassium hypochlorite.

[0019] All percentages given herein are, if not indicated otherwise, weight percentages relative to the total weight of the respective composition, typically the detergent composition of the disclosure.

[0020] The liquid detergent composition according to the present disclosure comprises at least one hypochlorite, in particular sodium hypochlorite (NaHClO), preferably in an amount of from about 1.9 % to about 2.1 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition. It has been found that this concentration is sufficient to lead to the desired perception of cleanliness and hygiene. As used herein, the term “about” when used in conjunction with a numerical value should be construed as encompassing the specified numerical value, and allows for minor deviations therefrom. For example, the term “from about 1.9% to about 2.1% by weight” axiomatically includes the range from 1.9% to 2.1% by weight, and extends to values near the extremities of the range.

[0021] In addition to the hypochlorite, a silicate, preferably sodium silicate may be included in the composition according to the present disclosure. These can function as a corrosion inhibitor and/or dye stabilizer.

[0022] Particularly preferred are sodium silicates with a weight ratio of SiO2:Na2O in the range of from about 2.0:1 to about 2.85:1, preferably from about 2.0:1 to about 2.2:1, i.e. alkaline sodium silicates. These are preferably included in amounts of from about 0.05 % to about 0.5 % by weight, preferably from about 0.1 to about 0.3 % by weight, more preferably from about 0.2 to about 0.25 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

[0023] In addition to the afore-mentioned components, the composition may further comprise other ingredients typically used in detergent compositions. In the context of the present disclosure, the liquid detergent composition may additionally comprise one or more substances selected from the group of, without limitation, surfactants, detergency builders, other bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, enzymes, non-aqueous solvents, pH adjusting agents, perfumes, fluorescing agents, dyes, hydrotopes, silicone oils, antiredeposition agents, anti-graying agents, shrinkage preventers, wrinkle protection agents, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial active substances, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing adjuvants, proofing and impregnation agents, swelling and anti-slip agents, softening compounds, complexing agents and UV absorbers.

[0024] The liquid detergent composition preferably comprises at least one surfactant in an amount of from about 1 to about 20 wt.% (particularly preferred of from about 1.5 to about 10.0 wt.%) of said liquid detergent composition. Said surfactants are preferably selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants or mixtures thereof. It is particularly preferred that the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one anionic surfactant and at least one nonionic or amphoteric surfactant.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the liquid detergent compositions comprise at least one anionic surfactant, such as an alkylether sulfate.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the liquid detergent composition comprises at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I)

Ri_O-(A-O)n-SO₃- X⁺ wherein [0027] R¹ represents a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted (Cs-C2o)-alkyl group, an aryl group or an (Cs-C2o)-alkylaryl group, preferably a linear, unsubstituted (CsC2o)-alkyl group,

A represents ethane-1,2-diyl- or propane-1,2-diyl, preferably ethane-1-2-diyl, n represents an integer from about 1 to about 50, preferably from about 1 to about 20, especially from about 2 to about 10, most preferably for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8, X⁺ means a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation.

[0028] According to formula (I) R¹ denotes preferably a group selected from decyl-,

nonadecyl-, eicosyl group or mixtures thereof, whereas the before mentioned groups having an even number of carbon atoms are particularly preferred. Most preferred residues R¹ are derived from Cn-Cis-fatty alcohols. Examples are Coco fatty alcohol, tallow fatty alcohol, lauryl-, myristyl-, cetyl- oder stearyl alcohol or from Cio-C2o-Oxoalcohols.

[0029] X⁺ of formula (I) is preferably selected from alkali metal ions, especially Na⁺ or K⁺, whereas Na⁺ is most preferred. Other cations X⁺ may be selected from NH4⁺, % Zn²⁺,’/2 Mg²⁺,!/2 Ca²⁺,’/2 Mn²⁺, or mixtures thereof.

[0030] Preferred liquid compositions of this disclosure comprise an anionic surfactant of formula I, selected from at least one anionic surfactant of formula (1-1)

(1-1) wherein k is an integer of from about 11 to about 19, and n preferably is 2-8, preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.

[0031] Particularly preferred liquid detergent compositions comprise an anionic surfactant of formula (I) chosen from sodium-Ci2-i4 fatty alcohol ether sulfate with two units of ethylene oxide (according to formula (1-1) k means an integer of from about 11 to about 13 and n is 2).

[0032] Preferred the liquid detergent compositions according to this disclosure comprise said portion of anionic surfactant of formula (I) in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 7.0 wt.%, preferably of from about 1.5 to about 6.0 wt.%, of said liquid detergent composition.

[0033] In various embodiments, the liquid detergent compositions comprise additionally at least one alkylbenzene sulfonate as an anionic surfactant. For example, the liquid detergent composition may comprise at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I) and at least one alkylbenzene sulfonate.

[0034] The alkylbenzene sulphonate, if present, is preferably a linear alkylbenzene sulphonate having an alkyl chain length of Cs-Cis. In particular, the linear alkylbenzene sulphonate is a C9-C13 alkyl benzene sulphonate, a C10-C13 alkyl benzene sulphonate or a C10C15 alkyl benzene sulphonate. The amount of linear alkylbenzene sulphonate in the liquid detergent composition may preferably range from about 1.5 to about 8.0 wt.%, preferably from about 2.5 to about 6.0 wt.%, of said liquid detergent composition.

[0035] The alkylbenzene sulphonate can be present in the form of the sodium, potassium, or ammonium salts and as soluble salts of organic bases such as mono-, di-, or triethanolamine. The alkylbenzene sulphonate are preferably present in the form of their sodium or potassium salts; in particular in the form of the sodium salts.

[0036] In some embodiments, the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one anionic surfactant of formula (II) +

wherein the combination of R and R comprises from about 9 to about 19, preferably from about 11 to about 15 carbon atoms,

Y⁺ means a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation. Particularly preferred is an anionic surfactant of formula (II-1)

[0037] The liquid detergent composition of this disclosure may additionally comprise as a surfactant a fatty acid compound selected from fatty acid, fatty acid salt or mixtures thereof.

The fatty acid compound can be the sole additional anionic surfactant. It may be preferred that the liquid detergent composition comprises at least anionic surfactant of formula (I), at least one alkylbenzene sulfonate and at least one fatty acid compound.

[0038] According to this disclosure a fatty acid is a monocarboxylic acid comprising from about 10 to about 20 carbon atoms. Preferred fatty acids are selected from Coco fatty acid, tallow fatty acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid or mixtures thereof.

[0039] The fatty acid compound is preferably selected from fatty acid salts. The sodium, potassium, or ammonium salts as well as soluble salts of organic bases such as mono-, di-, or triethanolamine are appropriate. The fatty acid compounds are particularly preferably present in the form of sodium or potassium salts of fatty acids; in particular in the form of the sodium salts of fatty acids.

[0040] If present, the liquid detergent composition preferably comprises fatty acid compound in an amount of from about 0.005 to about 4,0 wt.%, particularly preferred from about 0.05 to about 3,0 wt.%, most preferred from about 0,5 to about 2,0 wt.%, of said liquid detergent composition.

[0041] In a further embodiment it may also be preferred that the liquid detergent composition additionally comprises a nonionic detergent active compound. The presence of a nonionic detergent active compound may improve the cleaning power of the fabric washing liquid composition and help to stabilize the liquid detergent composition.

[0042] The nonionic active detergent species that may be used are by preference alkoxylated, advantageously ethoxylated, in particular primary alcohols having by preference 8 to 18 carbon atoms and an average of from about 1 to about 12 mol ethylene oxide (EO) per mol of alcohol, in which the alcohol residue can be linear or preferably methyl-branched in the 2-position, or can contain mixed linear and methyl-branched residues, such as those that are usually present in oxo alcohol residues. Particularly preferred, however, are alcohol ethoxylates having linear residues made up of alcohols of natural origin having from about 12 to about 18 carbon atoms, e.g. from coconut, palm, tallow, or oleyl alcohol, and an average of from about 2 to about 8 EO per mol of alcohol. The preferred ethoxylated alcohols include, for example, C12-14 alcohols with 3 EO, 4 EO, 5 EO, or 7 EO, C9-11 alcohols with 7 EO, C13-15 alcohols with 3 EO, 5 EO, 7 EO, or 8 EO, C12-18 alcohols with 3 EO, 5 EO, or 7 EO, and mixtures thereof, such as mixtures of C12-14 alcohol with 3 EO and C12-18 alcohol with 7 EO. The degrees of ethoxylation indicated represent statistical averages, which can correspond to an integral or a fractional number for a specific product. Preferred alcohol ethoxylates exhibit a restricted distribution of homologs (narrow range ethoxylates, NRE). In addition to these nonionic active detergent species, fatty alcohols with more than 12 EO can also be used. Examples of these are tallow fatty alcohol with 14 EO, 25 EO, 30 EO, or 40 EO. Nonionic active detergent species that contain EO and PO groups together in the molecule are also usable according to the present disclosure. Block copolymers having EO-PO block units or PO-EO block units, but also EO-PO-EO copolymers or PO-EO-PO copolymers, can be used in this context. Also usable, of course, are mixed alkoxylated nonionic active detergent species in which EO and PO units are distributed statistically rather than in block fashion. Such products are obtainable by the simultaneous action of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide on fatty alcohols. These nonionic active detergent species are obtainable, for example, under the commercial name Dehydol® (from Cognis).

[0043] Also suitable nonionic active detergent species are mixtures of a (more) branched ethoxylated fatty alcohol and a non-branched ethoxylated fatty alcohol, such as mixtures of C16-18 fatty alcohol having 7 EO and 2-propylheptanol having 7 EO.

[0044] The liquid detergent composition may also additionally comprise an amphoteric active detergent compound. The amphoteric active detergent compound is particularly preferably present in the liquid detergent composition in an amount of from about 0 to about 5.0 wt.%, preferably from about 0.5 to about 3.0 wt.-% of said liquid detergent composition.

[0045] The amphoteric detergent active compound may preferably include a (CsC2o)alkylamido-(C2-C3)-alkyl betaine. The presence of an amphoteric detergent active compound, especially of a betaine improves the cleaning power of the cleaning liquid composition and enhances the foam level of the fabric washing liquid composition.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the amphoteric active detergent compound is a betaine. A betaine is any neutral chemical compound with a positively charged cationic functional group such as a quaternary ammonium or phosphonium cation (generally: onium ions) which bears no hydrogen atom and with a negatively charged functional group such as a carboxylate group which may not be adjacent to the cationic site.

[0047] Suitable betaines comprise compounds represented by the following formula R³-CONH-(CH2)o-N⁺(CH3)2-CH2COO· (III), wherein

R³ is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl-, aryl- or alkylarylgroup, and o is an integer of from about 1 to about 4, preferably 3.

[0048] Especially suitable surfactants represented by formula (III) are those wherein R³ is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted Cs-Cis-alkylgroup, preferably an alkylgroup which is derived from coconut oil, and o is 3.

[0049] A betaine suitable for use in the liquid detergent composition is cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), an organic compound derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the amphoteric surfactant may be an amine oxide. Accordingly, the compositions described herein may comprise at least one amine oxide, but may also comprise a plurality of amine oxides. In principle, all amine oxides established for these purposes in the prior art, therefore compounds having the formula R¹ R²R³NO, where each R¹, R², and R³ independently of the others is an optionally substituted C1-C30 hydrocarbon chain, can be used in this regard. Amine oxides preferably used are those in which R¹ is C12-C18 alkyl and R² and R³ are each independently C1-C4 alkyl, particularly C12Ci8 alkyl dimethylamine oxides. Exemplary representatives of suitable amine oxides are Ncoco alkyl-N,N-dimethylamine oxide, N-tallow alkyl-N,N-dihydroxyethylamine oxide, myristyl-/cetyldimethylamine oxide, or lauryldimethylamine oxide.

[0051] In preferred embodiments, the compositions of the disclosure may further comprise a builder system. The builder system may be a phosphate-free builder system. However, the composition may comprise phosphonates. Accordingly, the term “phosphate-free”, as used herein does not refer to phosphonates.

[0052] If the compositions comprise phosphonates, the phosphonates are preferably hydroxyalkane and/or amino alkane phosphonates, such as 1-hydroxy ethane-1,1diphosphonate (HEDP), ethylenediamine tetramethylene phosphonate (EDTMP), diethylenetriamine pentamethylene phosphonate (DTPMP), lysine tetramethylene phosphonate (LTMP) and aminotrimethylene phosphonate (ATMP) including its N oxidized derivative ATMP N-oxide. The phosphonates are preferably used as sodium salts. ATMP Noxide is particularly preferred and commercially available as Sequion® CLR from Bozetto.

[0053] If present, phosphonates are used in amounts of from about 0.01 to about 10.0 wt.-%, preferably from about 0.1 to about 5.0 wt.-%. The total phosphorus content of the detergents is preferably less than 0.5% by weight.

[0054] Further suitable builders include, without limitation, inorganic builders, such as further silicates, aluminosilicates (particularly zeolite), and carbonates, as well as organic builders, such as organic di- and polycarboxylic acids, aminocarboxylic acids and combinations thereof. Preferred in liquid compositions are carbonates, di- and polycarboxylic acids and aminocarboxylic acids. Also suitable are alkali metal hydroxides, in particular sodium hydroxide, but these are, besides their use for pH control, not preferred. Suitable carbonates include alkali metal carbonates, hydrogen carbonates and sesquicarbonates, with alkali metal carbonates, in particular sodium carbonate being preferred.

[0055] Suitable organic builders include polycarboxylic acids which can be used as free acids or in form of their salts, including, but not limited to, citric acid, adipic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, malic acid, tartric acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, and sugar acids. In addition to their builder properties, the free acids can also be used for pH control. Preferred are citric acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid and gluconic acid, and combinations thereof. Particularly preferred is citric acid.

[0056] In addition or alternatively to the afore-mentioned builders, the compositions may also include aminocarboxylic acids or salts thereof, i.e. aminocarboxylates. In various embodiments, suitable aminocarboxylic acids/aminocarboxylates are selected from Lglutamic acid Ν,Ν-diacetic acid (GLDA), methyl glycine diacetic acid (MGDA), imino disuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediamine Ν,Ν'-disuccinic acid (EDDS), diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA), beta-alanine Ν,Ν-diacetic acid, hydroxyethylenediamine triacetic acid (HEDTA), and alkali metal salts thereof as well as combinations of any one of more of the afore-mentioned.

[0057] The detergent compositions of the disclosure may be aqueous liquid compositions and as such may comprise significant quantities of water, typically from about 10.0 to about 90.0 wt.-%, preferably from about 15.0 to about 90.0 wt.-%.

[0058] The pH value of the detergents as contemplated herein is generally in the range of from about 7 to about 12, preferably in the range from about 7 to about 10.5. Relatively high pH values, for example above 9, may be achieved by the use of small quantities of sodium hydroxide or alkaline salts, such as sodium carbonate. The liquid detergents are typically transparent, translucent, or opaque, are flowable, and may be poured under the sole effect of gravity without any need for other shear forces to be applied. Their viscosity is generally in the range of 100-1000 mPas (Brookfield viscosimeter, spindle 2, 20 rpm, 20° C), preferably in the range of between 150 and 400 mPas.

[0059] In various embodiments, the detergents may contain at least one, preferably two or more other substances selected from pH adjusting agents, perfumes, dyes and colorants. All of these ingredients are well-known in the art and readily available.

[0060] Preferably, the liquid detergent composition is a liquid laundry detergent composition or a liquid cleaning detergent composition and most preferred the liquid detergent composition is an aqueous liquid laundry detergent composition.

[0061] Liquid or pasty detergents as contemplated herein in the form of solutions containing conventional solvents are generally produced by simply mixing the constituents, which may be introduced into an automatic mixer as an undissolved material or as a solution.

[0062] The disclosure further encompasses methods for cleaning textiles, wherein a washing liquor containing the detergent composition as contemplated herein contacts the textile in at least one method step. These include both manual and machine methods, wherein machine methods are preferred, due to their being more precisely controllable, for example in terms of the quantities used and periods of exposure. Methods for cleaning textiles are in general distinguished in that in two or more method steps various substances with a cleaning action are applied onto the material to be cleaned and, after the period of exposure, are washed off, or that the material to be cleaned is treated in some other manner with a washing agent or a solution or dilution of this agent. Any conceivable washing methods may be enhanced in at least one of the method steps by application of a detergent composition as contemplated herein and then constitute embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] In various embodiments, the method is carried out at a temperature of between 10°C and 60°C, preferably between 20°C and 50°C and more preferably of between 30°C and 50°C.

[0064] All factors, aspects and embodiments which have been described for detergent compositions as contemplated herein are also applicable to this aspect of the disclosure. Express reference is therefore made at this point to the disclosure at corresponding points, it being pointed out that this disclosure also applies to the above methods as contemplated herein.

[0065] Particularly preferred embodiments of the disclosure are characterized by the following points:

1. Liquid detergent composition comprising:

2. The liquid detergent composition according to point 1, wherein the at least one hypochlorite is present in an amount of from about 1.9 to about 2.1 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

3. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about 2, wherein the at least one silicate is (a) present in an amount of from about 0.2 to about 0.25 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition; and/or (b) is an alkaline sodium silicate with a weight ratio of SiO2:Na2O in the range of from about 2.0:1 to about 2.85:1, preferably from about 2.0:1 to about 2.2:1.

4. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points 1 to 3, wherein the liquid detergent composition further comprises at least one, preferably two or more other substance selected from the group including of surfactants, detergency builders, other bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, enzymes, non-aqueous solvents, pH adjusting agents, perfumes, fluorescing agents, dyes, hydrotopes, silicone oils, anti-redeposition agents, anti-gray agents, shrinkage preventers, wrinkle protection agents, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial active substances, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing adjuvants, proofing and impregnation agents, swelling and anti-slip agents, softening compounds, complexing agents and UV absorbers.

5. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points 1 to 4, wherein said liquid detergent composition comprises at least one surfactant in an amount of from about 1 to about 20 wt.%, preferably from about 1.5 to about 10.0 wt.% of said liquid detergent composition.

6. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about

5, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I)

Ri_O-(A-O)n-SO₃' X⁺ wherein

R¹ is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted (Cs-C2o)-alkyl group, an aryl group or an (Cs-C2o)-alkylaryl group, preferably a linear, unsubstituted (Cs-C2o)-alkyl group,

A is ethane-1,2-diyl- or propane-1,2-diyl, preferably ethane-1-2-diyl, n is an integer from about 1 to about 50, preferably from about 1 to about 20, especially from about 2 to about 10, most preferably for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8,

X⁺ is a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation, preferably in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 7.0 % by weight, more preferably from about 1.5 to about 6.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

7. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about

6, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides, preferably in an amount of from about 0 to about 5.0, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 3.0 wt.-% of the composition.

8. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about

7, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one builder substance, preferably a phosphonate, more preferably selected from 1-hydroxy ethane1,1-diphosphonate (HEDP), ethylenediamine tetramethylene phosphonate (EDTMP), diethylenetriamine pentamethylene phosphonate (DTPMP), lysine tetramethylene phosphonate (LTMP) and aminotrimethylene phosphonate (ATMP) including its N oxidized derivative ATMP N-oxide, most preferably ATMP N-oxide, preferably in amounts of from about 0.01 to about 10.0 wt.-%, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 5.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

9. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about 8, wherein said liquid detergent composition is an aqueous liquid laundry detergent composition.

10. A method for cleaning textiles, wherein a washing liquor containing the liquid detergent composition according to any one of points from about 1 to about 8 contacts the textile in at least one method step.

[0066] Examples [0067] Example 1: Liquid detergent formulation according to the present disclosure [0068] Table 1

Raw Material Brand Name	El % in the formula a.s.
Perfume/Fragrance	0.25
Dye/Colorants	0.005
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate, ethoxylated with 2 EO	4.2
N-C12-18 Alkyl-N,Ndimethylamine N-oxide	2.0
Caustic soda	0.945
Sodium silicate (ratio 2.0)	0.22
ATMP N-oxide	0.4
Water	ad 100

[0069] Example 2: Comparison El/Ariel Gel GCC [0070] Washing results (Washing performance WEW 7.2-001) with El confirm better stain removal properties vis-a-vis existing commercially available products (Ariel Gel GCC) without the inventive components.

[0071] Table 2

stain	better	Worse	same
15 bleachable	13	2	5
26 enzyme active	0	4	2
19 Fat-color pigment stains (cosmetics)	3	1	9
39 tested stains	16	7	16

[0072] Example 3: Comparison El/Ariel Gel GCC [0073] Foam test in toploader washing machines: TIWRC-F7-02 [0074] Table 3: Foam level in cm

	El	Ariel Gel GCC
0 minutes	28.0	4.0
10 minutes	18.0	0.0
20 minutes	3.0	0.0

[0075] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the various embodiments in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an exemplary embodiment as contemplated herein. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the various embodiments as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Liquid detergent composition comprising:

a) at least one hypochlorite in an amount of from about 1.5% to about 3.0% by weight of said liquid detergent composition, and

b) optionally at least one silicate in an amount of from about 0.05 % to about

0.5 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

2. The liquid detergent composition according to claim 1, wherein the at least one hypochlorite is sodium hypochlorite.

3. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the at least one hypochlorite is present in an amount of from about 1.8 % to about 2.2 % by weight, or from about 1.9 % to about 2.1 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

4. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one silicate is or comprises sodium silicate.

5. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one silicate is present in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 0.3 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition.

6. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one silicate is (a) present in an amount of from about 0.2 to about 0.25 % by weight of said liquid detergent composition; and/or (b) is an alkaline sodium silicate with a weight ratio of SiCUlSfeO in the range of from about 2.0:1 to about 2.85:1, or from about 2.0:1 to about 2.2:1.

7. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the liquid detergent composition further comprises at least one other substance selected from surfactants, detergency builders, other bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, enzymes, non-aqueous solvents, pH adjusting agents, perfumes, fluorescing agents, dyes, hydrotopes, silicone oils, anti-redeposition agents, anti-gray agents, shrinkage preventers, wrinkle protection agents, dye transfer inhibitors, antimicrobial active substances, germicides, fungicides, antioxidants, preservatives, corrosion inhibitors, antistatic agents, bittering agents, ironing adjuvants, proofing and impregnation agents, swelling and anti-slip agents, softening compounds, complexing agents and UV absorbers.

8. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said liquid detergent composition comprises at least one surfactant in an amount of from about 1 to about 20 wt.%, or from about 1.5 to about 10.0 wt.% of said liquid detergent composition.

9. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I)

Ri_O-(A-O)n-SO3' X+ wherein

R1 is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted (Cx-Cboj-alkyl group, an aryl group or an (Cs-C2o)-alkylaryl group,,

A means ethane-1,2-diyl- or propane-1,2-diyl„ n is an integer from about 1 to about 50,

X+ is a monovalent cation or an equivalent of a polyvalent cation.

10. The liquid detergent composition according to claim 9, wherein:

- R1 is a linear, unsubstituted (Cs-C2o)-alkyl group, and/or

A is ethane-1-2-diyl, and/or

- n is from about 1 to about 20, or from about 2 to about 10, or 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8.

11. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 9 or 10, wherein the at least one anionic surfactant of formula (I) is present in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 7.0 % by weight, or from about 1.5 to about 6.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

12. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides.

13. The liquid detergent composition according to claim 12, wherein the at least one amphoteric surfactant selected from betaines and amine oxides is present in an amount of from about 0 to about 5.0 wt.-%, or from about 0.5 to about 3.0 wt.-% of the composition.

14. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said liquid detergent composition additionally comprises at least one builder substance.

15. The liquid detergent composition according to claim 14, wherein the at least oe builder substance is or comprises a phosphonate.

16. The liquid detergent composition according to claim 15, wherein the phoephonate is selected from 1-hydroxyethane-1,1-diphosphonate (HEDP), ethylenediamine tetramethylene phosphonate (EDTMP), diethylenetriamine pentamethylene phosphonate (DTPMP), lysine tetramethylene phosphonate (LTMP) and aminotrimethylene phosphonate (ATMP) including its N oxidized derivative ATMP N-oxide.

17. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 15 or 16, wherein the phosphonate is ATMP N-oxide.

18. The liquid detergent composition according to claims 15 to 17, wherein the at least one builder substance is present in amounts of from about 0.01 to about 10.0 wt.-%, or from about 0.1 to about 5.0 wt.-% relative to the total weight of the composition.

19. The liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein said liquid detergent composition is an aqueous liquid laundry detergent composition.

20. A method for cleaning textiles, wherein a washing liquor comprising the liquid detergent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 19 contacts the textile in at least one method step.