JP2010538182A - Fabric treatment composition - Google Patents

Abstract

  A composition for treating fabric. The compositions of the present invention can be used to improve various properties of the fabric, such as olfactory perception and / or fabric appearance, without the fabric having to go through a standard washing process. A method for treating a fabric is also disclosed.

Description

  The present invention is intended to improve various properties of fabrics, in particular to reduce malodor or restore or improve olfactory perception by freshening, and / or to restore appearance by removing wrinkles in wrinkled fabrics. In particular, it relates to a fabric care composition and a method for treating fabric so that the garment is suitable for wearing without the need for a standard laundry process.

  The normal wearing of the fabric, especially clothing, and in some cases the process of washing and storage, makes it no longer unsightly or unacceptable for the owner to wear the fabric, especially in terms of olfaction and vision. As a result, fabrics that do not have a clean / refreshing scent and / or are visually unattractive, especially from the standpoint of straw or static electricity, are subjected to standard time-consuming washing processes using washing machines and dryers. There has been a long-standing need for finding a “refresher” product that is simple and easy to use for the purpose of treating fabrics, especially clothing, in order to restore it to a wearable state without need. there were.

  Various compositions have been disclosed as wrinkle control compositions in the prior art. Commercially available wrinkle control compositions include those that tend to rely on silicone-containing materials to enable the removal of wrinkles. These commercially available compositions include those applied from a spray dispenser to a fabric.

  A drawback of these compositions is that they do not contain sufficient water soluble quaternary surfactant microemulsions, and Applicants have found excellent wrinkle removal and appearance of worn or wrinkled fabrics. It has been found that water-soluble quaternary surfactant microemulsions are useful for rapid recovery of water.

  The present invention is a quaternary microemulsion fabric refreshing composition, a fabric refreshing method, and such fabric refreshing, which is stable, preferably well dispersed, more preferably translucent, and even more preferably transparent. It relates to a product using the composition. The present invention relates to a fabric refresher product comprising a water soluble quaternary ammonium compound ("water soluble quat"). A mixture of water, a water soluble quaternary ammonium compound and a substantially water insoluble oil mix can surprisingly form a microemulsion that provides the desired effect of reducing wrinkles, malodors, and static electricity. It was discovered that it can be done.

The fabric refreshing composition of the present invention comprises:
A. Water added as the remainder of the ingredients listed below. Typically, water can be added at a concentration of about 30% to about 99.9%;
B. A typical minimum concentration of water soluble quaternary ammonium surfactant, a water soluble quaternary agent contained in the composition, is at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, more preferably While the typical maximum concentration of water-soluble quaternary agent is at most about 20%, preferably less than about 10%, more preferably less than about 3%, generally about 0%. In the range of 2% to about 1.0%;
C. A substantially water-insoluble oil component or oil mix, the oil component may have a clogP greater than 1. Typically, the minimum concentration of the oil component contained in the composition is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.005%, even more preferably at least 0.01%, Typical maximum concentrations of the oil component are up to about 5.0%, preferably less than about 3%, more preferably less than 1.5%, generally in the range of about 0.05% to about 1%;
D. If desired, an effective amount of a nonionic surfactant may be added to increase the desired physical properties. Typically, the minimum concentration of nonionic surfactant, when used, is at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, more preferably at least about 0.1%. A typical maximum concentration of ionic surfactant is up to about 5%, preferably up to about 3%, more preferably up to about 1.5%.
E. If desired, an effective amount of a buffer may be added to increase the pH change resistance of the composition, and when used, at least about 0.01% buffer is added, preferably at least about 0.05. %, More preferably at least about 0.1% is added, while the typical maximum concentration of buffer is up to about 3%, preferably less than about 1.5%, more preferably about 0. Less than 5%.
F. If desired, an effective amount of odor suppressor may be used to provide additional malodor scavenging / blocking effects, when used, the odor suppressor is about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0. 0.1%, more preferably at least about 0.2% in a minimum amount, while the typical maximum concentration of odor control agent is up to about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, more preferably about Less than 2%;
G. If desired, an effective amount of an antimicrobial agent may be used to kill or inhibit the growth of the microorganism, and when used, the antimicrobial agent is typically at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.1. Used at a minimum amount of 002%, more preferably at least about 0.005%, while the typical maximum concentration of antimicrobial agent is at most about 0.5%, preferably less than about 0.2%, more preferably Is less than about 0.1%;
H. If desired, an effective amount of a pH adjusting agent may be used to achieve a pH of about 3 to about 11, preferably about 4 to about 10, more preferably about 5 to about 9;
I. An effective amount of solubilized, water-soluble antimicrobial preservative, if desired, especially when the antimicrobial active is not sufficient to act as a preservative. Typically, when used, the minimum amount of these antimicrobial preservatives is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.002%, more preferably at least 0.005%, When used, typical maximum amounts are up to about 0.5%, preferably less than about 0.2%, more preferably less than about 0.1%;
J. et al. Optionally, other water-soluble solvents, when used, typical minimum amounts of these water-soluble solvents are at least about 0.05%, preferably at least about 0.1%, more preferably at least about 0.0. While, when used, typical maximum amounts are up to about 8%, preferably less than about 5%, more preferably less than about 3%;
Desirably, the composition is essentially free of any material that damages the fabric under the conditions of use.

  In one non-limiting embodiment, the fabric refresher composition described herein is incorporated into a spray dispenser and is effective, but easily recognized when dried on fabric with the exception of fade recovery. A product is made that can facilitate the treatment of fabrics and / or surfaces with an impossible amount of refresher composition. The spray dispenser comprises manually activated and non-manually operated (operated) spraying means and a container containing the fabric refresher composition. In one embodiment of the fabric refresher composition described herein, an inert, non-volatile gas is used as a propellant in an aerosol dispenser can.

  In one embodiment, the composition of the present invention is provided herein to a surface to be treated using an apparatus that produces small diameter droplets of the composition. Non-limiting examples of such devices include pressure atomizers, atomizers, and nebulizers. The selected device is preferably very small particles (droplets) having a weight average diameter particle size (diameter) of about 5 μm to about 300 μm, more preferably about 10 μm to about 200 μm, and even more preferably about 20 μm to about 150 μm. ) As a composition to fabrics and other surfaces.

  The present invention relates to a composition for treating fabric. The invention also relates to a process for producing the composition of the invention. The present invention further relates to articles comprising the composition of the present invention and methods of using the composition of the present invention. Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention. All percentages, ratios and proportions set forth herein are by weight unless otherwise indicated. Unless otherwise noted, all amounts including quantities, percentages, portions, and ratios are understood to be modified by the word “about” and the amounts are not intended to indicate significant figures. Unless stated otherwise, the articles “a”, “an”, and “the” mean “one or more”.

  As used herein, “comprising” means that other steps and other components that do not affect the final result may be included. This term encompasses the terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”. Compositions and methods / processes of the present invention include the essential elements and limitations of the invention described herein, as well as any additional or optional ingredients, components, steps, or restrictions described herein, Can consist of and can consist essentially of them.

  Any maximum numerical limitation set forth throughout this specification should be understood to include all lower numerical limits as if such lower numerical limits were expressly set forth herein. It is. Any minimum numerical limitation set forth throughout this specification includes any higher numerical limitation as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly set forth herein. Any numerical range stated throughout this specification shall be clearly stated herein, including any narrower numerical range that falls within such a wider numerical range, as if all such numerical ranges were narrower. Include as if.

  Also included herein are qualitative methods to demonstrate the prevention of static electricity in fabrics with these compositions. Static or static electricity is a charge imbalance on the surface of a fabric. This is typically caused by “friction charging” when the fabric material is brought into contact and then pulled apart, leaving the electrons exchanged by the material, leaving a relative positive charge on one side and a negative charge on the other. Friction between the two surfaces can enhance this charge separation process, and materials that are further separated in the “triboelectric charging series” tend to transfer electrons more efficiently.

  It has been discovered that the presence of static electricity on the surface of the fabric can be indicated by a non-contact AC voltage detector. Non-contact AC voltage detectors are used to detect AC voltage without being connected to or in contact with an active AC electrical wire. These devices are designed to be held stationary near an alternating electric field. For example, a common use is to place the probes of these devices at the AC power output to indicate the presence of an AC voltage. The device is held stationary and senses voltage changes, typically indicating the presence of the voltage with sound or light. It has been discovered that by moving the device over the surface of the fabric, a non-contact AC voltage detector can indicate the presence of static electricity in the fabric and is very effective. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that moving the device over a non-uniform electrostatic field present on the fabric simulates the change in the electric field of the AC line voltage. Typically, the device is moved over a fabric at a distance of less than about 30.5 cm (12 inches) and a speed of about 30.5 cm / sec (1 ft / sec). The presence of static electricity on the fabric is indicated in the usual way by the instrument. If the fabric is static free, the instrument does not indicate the presence of any voltage. A preferred example of this technology utilizes the Greenlee G-11 non-contact voltage detector distributed by Greenlee Textron (Rockford, Ill.). The compositions described herein can both remove static that is present in the fabric and prevent static accumulation.

Fabric refreshing:
As mentioned above, the present invention relates to a method and composition for fabric refreshing that is utilized in at least an effective amount to restore a fabric that is not refreshing, has a foul odor and / or wrinkles.

  A microemulsion is a macroscopically homogeneous mixture of oil, water, and surfactant, and at the macroscopic level is composed of individual regions of oil and water separated by a single layer of amphiphile. As used herein, “amphiphile” refers to a compound that has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. Microemulsions have been used for oil recovery, and microemulsions containing anionic surfactants and somewhat smaller nonionic alcohols have been extensively verified. There are a number of ways to describe microemulsions, but the more general properties that describe them are: 1) appearance, ie a visual appearance that is transparent to slightly opaque, and 2) complex phase behavior. 3) Ease of mixing and formation to make a stable solution, 4) Small particle size and large interfacial area per unit volume, 5) Solubility of organic and aqueous phases, 6) Excellent wetting With characteristics.

  However, the focus of this study is the use of quaternary ammonium surfactant-based microemulsions in the fabric context for wrinkle removal, malodor control, or static reduction. The key physical properties used to dimension these quaternary ammonium surfactant-based microemulsions are particle size and fabric wetting power, and transparent products are preferred for aesthetic purposes. A small oil-in-water particle size is desirable for these fabric-treated microemulsion compositions in order to promote penetration into fabric fibers and to provide adequate stability. In addition, a small particle size can provide some degree of homogeneity and / or transparency for aesthetic purposes. As used herein, the terms “homogeneous” and “stable” refer to compositions that are described as visually uniform in appearance over at least 48 hours after mixing or shaking. Preferably, the oil droplet particle size is about 300 nm or less, preferably about 100 nm or less, and most preferably about 50 nm or less. In the context of the present invention, typical oil droplet particle sizes can range from about 1 nm to about 300 nm.

  Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the specific surfactant and oil components and their molar ratios can be determinants in the production of microemulsions. Factors that contribute to obtaining an appropriate particle size are the solubility parameters of the components, their molecular size and molecular shape.

  Further, without being bound by theory, the highly effective wetting characteristics of the microemulsion of the composition is that the composition of the microemulsion in a quick and thorough manner by wetting the cotton fiber capillaries and pores more completely. Helps things penetrate into fabrics, especially cotton, thereby approaching more internal hydrogen bonds in the cellulosic structure. Breaking the hydrogen bonds that help preserve the existing soot is important for removing the soot. Rapid penetration for the fabric structure also helps promote better wrinkle removal in concert with tension, especially when tension is applied immediately after the composition is applied to the fabric. This rapid opening provides a positive reinforcement to consumers who can apply tension by pulling or pulling the fabric immediately after the composition is applied. Similarly, rapid wetting and composition development provides better coverage on fabrics and improves odor reduction efficiency through better contact with odor-causing components to be neutralized and complexed To do. Efficient wetting and coverage on the fabric further promotes the distribution of quaternary surfactants across the fabric surface and prevents static buildup on the fabric surface, especially in dry or low humidity environments.

  The wetting index may be used to describe the wetting behavior of a given treatment composition. Of particular interest is the ability to wet cotton clothing. The wetting index is a test that measures the wetting rate of the product composition on various fabrics. This test places a drop of the test product (water is the reference product) on the fabric sample and measures how long it takes for the drop of product composition to completely penetrate the fabric surface. Is included. Wetting index is defined as the time taken for the water control to completely penetrate the surface (seconds) divided by the time taken for the test product composition. A higher number of wetting indices indicates better wetting and can be thought of as representing how many times the product composition wets the fabric over water. The wetting index for cotton is preferably 2 or greater, more preferably greater than 5 and most preferably greater than 9.

  Another aspect of the present invention is the improvement in moisture management that can be achieved by pre-treating the fabric with the composition and allowing the fabric to dry. In this case, moisture management means the ability to better absorb water to a treated fabric compared to a fabric that has not been pretreated. This improved wicking ability translates into the ability to transfer water / sweat from the skin to a fabric / clothing that is in direct contact with the skin to accelerate drying and improve skin comfort.

  For the purposes of the present invention, a substantially water-insoluble oil component is defined as having a calculated log P ("clog P") greater than 1. The P value is a measurement of the octanol / water partition coefficient of the substance of interest and is the ratio between the concentration in octanol and water in its equilibrium state. Since the partition coefficients of the preferred components of the present invention have high values, it is more convenient to show them in the form of their logarithm, log P, base 10, which is known as the log P value. These values can be conveniently calculated to give a clogP value. ClogP values for many perfume ingredients have been reported, for example, Daylight Chemical Information Systems, Inc. (Daylight CIS) (Irvine, CA). Numerous clogP values are listed in the Pomona 92 database available from)) with references to the original literature. However, the clogP value can also be calculated by the “CLOGP” program also available from Daylight CIS. The “clog P value” is determined by the Hansch and Leo fragment approach (A. Leo, “Comprehensive Medicinal Chemistry”, Volume 4, C. Hansch. (C. Hansch), PG Sammens, JB Taylor, and CA Ramsden, 295, Pergamon Press, 1990. See).

  Another source of logP value calculation is by the LogP characteristic predictor (CSLogP) supplied by ChemSilo LLC (Tewksbury, MA, 01816).

A. Composition Water-soluble quaternary ammonium surfactant:
Typically, the minimum concentration of water-soluble quaternary ammonium compound contained in the composition of the present invention is at least about 0.01 wt%, preferably at least about 0.05, based on the total weight of the composition. % By weight, more preferably at least about 0.1% by weight, even more preferably at least about 0.2% by weight. Typically, the maximum concentration of the water-soluble quaternary agent contained in the composition is up to about 20%, preferably less than about 10%, more preferably less than about 3%, based on the total weight of the composition. It is. Typically, the agent is present in the composition in an amount of about 0.2% to about 1.0%.

を有する第四級アンモニウム界面活性剤が挙げられるが、これらに限定されない（式中、Ｒ_１及びＲ_２は独立して、Ｃ_１〜Ｃ_４アルキル、Ｃ_１〜Ｃ_４ヒドロキシアルキル、ベンジル、及び−（Ｃ_２Ｈ_４Ｏ）_ｘＨ（式中、ｘは約２〜約５の値を有する）からなる群から選択され、Ｘはアニオンであり、（１）Ｒ_３及びＲ_４は各々Ｃ_６〜Ｃ_１４アルキルであり、又は（２）Ｒ_３はＣ_６〜Ｃ_１８アルキルであり、Ｒ_４はＣ_１〜Ｃ_１０アルキル、Ｃ_１〜Ｃ_１０ヒドロキシアルキル、ベンジル、及び−（Ｃ_２Ｈ_４Ｏ）_ｘＨ（式中、ｘは２〜５の値を有する）からなる群から選択される）。本発明に好ましい非対称第四級化合物は、式中、Ｒ３及びＲ４が同一でない化合物であり、好ましくは一方は分枝鎖状であり、もう一方は直鎖状である。 Specifically, preferred water-soluble quaternary compounds are dialkly quaternary surfactant compounds. Suitable quaternary surfactants include the formula:

Quaternary ammonium surfactants having, but are not limited to: wherein R ₁ and R ₂ are independently C ₁ -C ₄ alkyl, C ₁ -C ₄ hydroxyalkyl, benzyl, and - (wherein, x is has a value of from about 2 to about _{5) (C 2 H 4 O} ) x H is selected from the group consisting of, X is an anion, (1) each _{R 3} and _{R 4} are C _{6 to} C ₁₄ alkyl, or (2) R ₃ is C _{6 to} C ₁₈ alkyl, R ₄ is C _{1 to} C ₁₀ alkyl, C _{1 to} C ₁₀ hydroxyalkyl, benzyl, and — (C ₂ H ₄ O) _x H (wherein x is selected from the group consisting of 2 to 5)). Preferred asymmetric quaternary compounds for the present invention are those in which R3 and R4 are not the same, preferably one is branched and the other is linear.

  An example of a preferred asymmetric quaternary compound is ARQUAD HTL8-MS, where X is a methyl sulfate ion, R1 and R2 are methyl groups, and R3 is more than 5% monounsaturated. It is a hydrogenated tallow group and R4 is a 2-ethylhexyl group. ARQUAD HTL8-MS is available from Akzo Nobel Chemical (Arnhem, The Netherlands).

  An example of a suitable symmetrical quaternary compound is UNIQUAT 22c50, where X is carbonate and bicarbonate ions, R1 and R2 are methyl groups, and R3 and R4 are C10 alkyl groups. is there. UNIQUAT 22c50 is a registered trademark of Lonza and is available in North America by Lonza Incorporated (Allendale, NJ).

Another example of a suitable water-soluble quaternary compound is BARQUAT CME-35, which is available from Lonza and is N-cetylethylmorpholinium ethosulphate having the formula It is.

Oil component:
The oil component of the present invention represents a substantially water-insoluble material that is incorporated into the composition by microemulsion. Typically, the minimum concentration of the oil component contained in the composition is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.005%, more preferably at least about 0.01%, typically oil The maximum concentration of the ingredients is up to about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, more preferably less than 1.5%, with typical concentrations ranging from about 0.05% to about 1%. The oil component can be a single component, but is typically a mixture and usually indicates the incorporation of some benefit agent into the composition. Typically, the oil component is a perfume made from a mixture of components, but can also be non-perfume materials such as substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbons and the like. With regard to the spraying means, the oil component or mix is preferably liquid at room temperature for ease of incorporation into the composition, and the nozzle is less likely to clog during drying.

  The oil component of the present invention is substantially insoluble in water and forms a microemulsion. Substantially water-insoluble means that the component clogP is greater than about 1. A clogP of about 1 indicates that the component has a tendency to separate about 10 times water in octanol. Some preferred but non-limiting ingredients in the oil mixture are branched chain hydrocarbons, and fragrances when fragrances are used.

Fragrance:
The fabric refresher compositions described herein can also provide a “scent signal” in the form of a pleasant odor that gives a fresh impression to the treated fabric. The aroma signal can be designed to provide a fragrance aroma that lasts or lasts longer. When a fragrance is added as an odor signal, the fragrance is only added at a very low concentration, for example from about 0.001% to about 0.01% by weight of the composition usage.

  Perfume can also be added as a stronger odor in the product and on the fabric. When it is preferable that the level of freshness of the fabric is high, a relatively high concentration of perfume can be added. These concentrations are minimally about 0.005%, preferably at least about 0.01%, more preferably at least about 0.1%, typically up to about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, more Preferably it can be a maximum concentration of less than about 1%.

  Suitable perfumes, perfume ingredients, and perfume carriers are described in US Pat. No. 5,500,138 (Bacon et al., Issued March 19, 1996) and US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0035053 (A1). (Published on March 21, 2002 in the name of Demeyere et al.).

  Any type of perfume can be incorporated into the compositions of the present invention. Preferred perfume ingredients are those suitable for use for application to fabrics and clothing. A typical example of such a preferred component is given in US Pat. No. 5,445,747 (issued August 29, 1995, Kvietok et al.).

  When it is desired that the fragrance of the fragrance is long lasting on the fabric, it is preferred to use at least an effective amount of a perfume component having a boiling point of about 240 ° C. or higher, preferably about 250 ° C. or higher. Non-limiting examples of such preferred components are given in US Pat. No. 5,500,138 (Bacon et al., Issued 19 March 1996). It is also preferred to use materials that can slowly release perfume ingredients after the fabric has been treated with the wrinkle control composition of the present invention. Non-limiting examples of this type of material are disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,531,910 (Severns et al., Issued July 2, 1996).

  Other perfume ingredients can act as solvents. In some cases, this can help facilitate the incorporation of other perfume or oil components into the overall composition. A particularly good example herein is benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol has been found to have limited water solubility (clog P of about 1.2) and to help facilitate the incorporation of other perfume ingredients into these compositions.

Branched chain hydrocarbons:
An effective amount of fully branched hydrocarbons is utilized to provide a highly aqueous microemulsion soot reduction composition that is stable, preferably well dispersed, more preferably translucent, and even more preferably transparent. To do. The hydrocarbon component may be saturated or unsaturated and preferably has a carbon content and structure such that it is liquid at room temperature as opposed to being volatile or solid.

  One non-limiting example of a suitable branched chain hydrocarbon is ISOPAR V available from ExxonMobile Incorporated (Irving, TX). Another suitable branched chain hydrocarbon is PERMETHYL 102A available from Presperse Incorporated (Somerset, NJ).

  Branched chain hydrocarbons are used in combination with water soluble quaternary surfactants, and preferably perfume ingredients, at concentrations suitable to make preferably transparent, stable microemulsions. Branched chain hydrocarbons can be premixed separately from or along with the perfume ingredients and incorporated into the refresher spray.

  Other optional but desirable ingredients that may optionally be used in the present invention include nonionic surfactants, buffers, odor suppressors, perfume microcapsules, cyclodextrins, low molecular weight polyols, metal salts, antibacterial and antiseptics Agents, pH adjusters, and other optional ingredients.

Nonionic surfactant:
Examples of optional but preferred nonionic surfactants include Surfynol 465, Surfynol 104 (2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyne-4,7-diol), and the two It is a mixture. A preferred mixture is Surfinol 465: Surfinol 104 = 3: 1. Surfinol surfactants are available from Air Products and Chemicals, Incorporated (Allentown, Pa.).

  Another preferred surfactant non-ionic class is alkyl polyglycoside surfactants. Examples of these surfactants are GLUCOPON 215, PLANTAREN 2000 N UP and glucopon 425 and the like. These surfactants are available from Cognis Oleochemicals (Selangor, Malaysia). These surfactants are particularly useful because they are stable over a wide range of pH when the pH of the composition is targeted out of neutral (pH 7).

Another class of nonionic surfactants that can be used when the pH is at or near 7 is SILWET silicone polyethers. Non-limiting examples of these silicone polyethers are SILWET® materials available from GE Silicones. A typical SILWET® silicone polyether containing only ethyleneoxy (C ₂ H ₄ O) groups is:

Non-limiting examples of SILWET® silicone polyethers containing both ethyleneoxy (C ₂ H ₄ O) and propyleneoxy (C ₃ H ₆ O) groups are the following: :

Non-limiting examples of SILWET® silicone polyethers containing only propyleneoxy (C ₃ H ₆ O) groups are the following:

  Preferred Silwet (R) can help color recovery and provide flexibility when included in the composition in sufficient concentration (this is because the silicone polymer is rough on the surface of the fabric) Particularly preferred when leaving a feel). Non-limiting examples of preferred Silwet (R) include L77, L7001, L7200, L7087, especially L-7600.

  Some non-limiting preferred Dow Corning® silicone polyethers include Dow Corning® DC Q2-5247, (dimethyl, methylhydroxypropyl, ethoxylated propoxylated siloxane, [CAS number 68937-55-3] mainly composed of siloxane, EO, and PO). Other non-limiting examples of silicone polyethers useful in the present invention include the following compounds available from Dow Corning®, 193, 112, 8600, FF-400 fluid, Q2 -5220, Q4-3667, PP5495, and SH3771C, SH3772C, SH3773C, SH3746, SH3748, SH3749, SH8400, SF8410, available from Toray Dow Corning Silicone Co., Ltd. And a compound known as SH8700, Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. KF351 (A), KF352 (A), KF354 (A), and KF615 (A), Toshiba Silicone Company) TSF4440, TSF4445, TSF4446, TSF 452, and the like. Another non-limiting example is the SLM 21200 from German Wacker.

  Some silicone polyethers (especially those that are more hydrophobic) may require additional emulsifiers to make a stable spray composition. Such emulsifiers are typically anionic, nonionic, cationic, amphoteric, or bipolar surfactants or mixtures thereof. Typically, emulsifiers and surfactants can also act as spreading agents on fabrics and spread active ingredients such as silicone polymers.

  Typically, the minimum concentration of nonionic surfactant is at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, more preferably at least about 0.1%, while nonionic The maximum surfactant concentration is at most about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, more preferably less than about 1.5%.

Optional buffer:
Buffering agents may be incorporated into the present invention to help control the pH of the product during manufacture or during use. If the product is formulated at an alkaline pH and sprayed at the time of use, a buffer in the preferred alkaline pH range will help prevent the pH from dropping as a result of mixing with carbon dioxide from the air during spraying. obtain. Maintaining the pH at the targeted value can also help neutralize dirt or odors on the fabric. Any suitable buffer, organic or inorganic, can be used for the desired product pH, if the buffer is used at a concentration that provides adequate stability to the mixture. Preferred alkaline buffering agents include, but are not limited to, triethanolamine, glycine, arginine, carbonate, bicarbonate (such as sodium bicarbonate), and the like.

Optional odor suppressors:
If desired, an effective amount of malodor control agent may be used if it is desired to provide an additional malodor scavenging / blocking effect.

  Compositions for suppressing odor are disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 5,534,165, 5,578,563, 5,663,134, 5,668,097, , 670,475, and 5,714,137.

Fragrance microcapsules:
In one embodiment, the perfume comprises perfume microcapsules. Suitable perfume microcapsules and perfume nanocapsules include US 2003/215417 (A1), 2003/216488 (A1), 2003/158344 (A1), 2003/1665692. (A1), 2004/071742 (A1), 2004/071746 (A1), 2004/072719 (A1), 2004/072720 (A1), 2003/202929. (A1), 2003/195133 (A1), 2004/087477 (A1), and 2004/0106536 (A1). US Pat. Nos. 6,645,479, 6,200,949, 4,882,220, 4,917,920, 4,514,461, US Those disclosed in issued patent No. 32713, US Pat. No. 4,234,627, and European Patent No. 1,393,706 (A1). For the purposes of the present invention, the term “perfume microcapsules” refers to both perfume microcapsules and perfume nanocapsules. In another embodiment, the perfume comprises the perfume microcapsules described above and an unencapsulated perfume.

Cyclodextrin:
As used herein, the term “cyclodextrin” refers to unsubstituted cyclodextrins containing 6 to 12 glucose units, in particular α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, γ-cyclodextrin, and And / or any of the known cyclodextrins such as derivatives thereof and / or mixtures thereof. α-cyclodextrin consists of 6 glucose units, β-cyclodextrin consists of 7 glucose units, and γ-cyclodextrin consists of 8 glucose units arranged in a donut-shaped ring. The specific coupling and higher order structure of the glucose unit results in a rigid, conical molecular structure with a specific volume of hollow interior in cyclodextrin. The unique shape of the cavity and the physico-chemical properties of the cavity allow the cyclodextrin molecule to absorb (form an inclusion complex) an organic molecule or part of an organic molecule that can fit in the cavity. Become. Many odor molecules can fit into the cavity, such as many malodorous molecules and perfume molecules. Thus, a mixture of cyclodextrins and especially cyclodextrins with cavities of different sizes can be used to suppress odors caused by broad-spectrum, odor-generating organic substances that may contain reactive functional groups . Complexation between cyclodextrins and odor molecules occurs easily in the presence of water. However, the degree of complex formation also depends on the polarity of the absorbed molecule. In an aqueous solution, a highly hydrophilic molecule (very water-soluble) is only partially absorbed even if it is absorbed. Thus, cyclodextrins do not efficiently complex with some very low molecular weight organic amines and acids when present at low concentrations on wet fabrics. However, when water is removed, for example when the fabric is completely dried, some low molecular weight organic amines and acids have a higher affinity and more easily complex with cyclodextrins.

  The cavities within the cyclodextrin in the solution compositions described herein are essentially empty in solution so that the cyclodextrin can absorb various odor molecules when the solution is applied to the surface ( The cyclodextrin should remain uncomplexed). Underivatized (standard) β-cyclodextrin can be present at room temperature at a concentration of about 1.85% of its solubility limit (about 1.85 g in 100 g water). β-cyclodextrin is not preferred in compositions that require a concentration of cyclodextrin above its solubility limit. Non-derivatized β-cyclodextrin is generally not preferred when the composition contains a surfactant because it affects the surface activity of most preferred surfactants compatible with the derivatized cyclodextrin.

  In order to suppress odors on the fabric, the composition is preferably used as a spray. The use composition of the present invention preferably contains a low concentration of cyclodextrin so that no visible stains appear on the fabric at normal use concentrations. Preferably, the solution used to treat the surface under the conditions of use is substantially unrecognizable when dry. Typical concentrations of cyclodextrin in the use composition at the use conditions are from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 4%, more preferably from about 0.01% to about 5% by weight of the composition. About 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Higher concentrations of the composition may leave an unacceptable visible stain on the fabric as the solution evaporates from the fabric. This is particularly a problem with thin, colored synthetic fibers, and it is preferred to treat the fabric at a concentration of less than about 5 mg cyclodextrin per gram of fabric to avoid or minimize the occurrence of fabric stains, more Preferably the fabric is treated at a concentration of less than about 2 mg / g fabric. The presence of the surfactant can improve the appearance by minimizing local spots.

Low molecular weight polyol:
Low molecular weight polyols having a relatively high boiling point compared to water, such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and / or glycerol, to improve the odor control performance of the composition of the present invention when cyclodextrin is present. Preferred optional ingredients. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the incorporation of a small amount of low molecular weight glycol into the composition of the present invention promotes the formation of cyclodextrin inclusion complexes when the fabric is dried.

  It is believed that the ability of the polyol to remain on the fabric for longer than water allows the cyclodextrin and some malodorous molecules to form ternary complexes when the fabric dries. The addition of glycol is believed to fill the space within the cyclodextrin cavity that cannot be filled by some of the smaller odor molecules. Preferably, the glycol used is glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol or mixtures thereof, more preferably ethylene glycol and / or propylene glycol. Cyclodextrins prepared by processes that produce some such polyols are highly desirable because they can be used without removing the polyol.

  Such polyols, such as dipropylene glycol, are also useful in promoting the solubilization of some perfume ingredients in the compositions of the present invention.

  Typically, glycols are present in the compositions of the present invention from about 0.01% to about 3%, preferably from about 0.05% to about 1%, more preferably of the composition. It is added at a concentration of about 0.1% to about 0.5% by weight. The preferred weight ratio of low molecular weight polyol to cyclodextrin is about 2: 1,000 to 20: 100, more preferably about 3: 1,000 to about 15: 100, and even more preferably about 5: 1,000 to About 10: 100, most preferably about 1: 100 to about 7: 100.

Metal salt:
If desired, the present invention can include metal salts to add odor absorption and / or antimicrobial effects of the cyclodextrin solution when cyclodextrin is present. The metal salt is selected from the group consisting of copper salts, zinc salts, and mixtures thereof.

  When metal salts are added to the compositions of the present invention, they are typically from about 0.05% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 3%, by weight of the use composition, More preferably it is present at a concentration of about 0.2% to about 2% by weight. When zinc salts are used as metal salts and a clear solution is desired, it may be necessary to adjust the pH of the solution to less than about 7 in order to keep the solution clear.

  When optional odor control agents are added to the compositions of the present invention, they are typically from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 3%, by weight of the composition. It is present in a concentration by weight, more preferably from about 0.2% to about 2% by weight.

Antibacterial and preservatives:
Optionally, the refresher composition of the present invention includes an effective amount of an antimicrobial agent to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, and when used, the amount of antimicrobial active agent is preferably about about the amount of the composition used. 0.001 wt% to about 0.5 wt%, more preferably about 0.002 wt% to about 0.2 wt%, even more preferably about 0.005 wt% to about 0.1 wt%. An effective antimicrobial active can function as a disinfectant / cleaner and is useful to provide protection from organisms attached to the fabric.

  Examples of additional preservatives include hydantoin chemicals. Suitable examples of hydantoin chemicals are exemplified by Dantogard 2000 and Dantogard Plus available from Lonza Group Ltd. (Basel, Switzerland). Examples include dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (DMDMH) preservative.

  Another non-limiting example of a suitable preservative that can be used alone or in combination is 2-methyl-4-, exemplified by Neolone M-10 supplied by Rohm & Haas. Isothiazolin-3-one and 2-methyl-3 (2H) isothiazoline; 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one-based materials exemplified by Koralone B-119 by Rohm &Haas; Thor / Mixtures of methylisothiazolinone and benzisothiazolinone compounds exemplified by Acticide MBS; methylchloroisothiazolinone and methyl exemplified by Kathon GC supplied by Rohm & Haas A mixture with isothiazolinone; and supplied by Arch Chemicals 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one exemplified by Proxel GXL.

pH adjuster:
Acidic substances can be utilized to reduce the pH of the composition to a desired level. Non-limiting examples of suitable acids are small organic acids such as citric acid, and inorganic acids such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid. Preferably, the acid used and the final pH of the composition are selected to provide a chemically and physically stable mix.

  Basic materials can be utilized to raise the pH of the composition to a desired level. A non-limiting example of a suitable base is typically a low molecular weight inorganic base such as sodium hydroxide. Preferably, the base used and the final pH of the composition are selected to provide a chemically and physically stable mix. Preferably, the compositions of the present invention have a pH of about 3 to about 11, preferably about 4 to about 10, more preferably about 5 to about 9.

Other optional ingredients:
The composition of the present invention may optionally contain, in addition to silicone molecules, auxiliary odor suppressors, chelating agents, antistatic agents, softening agents, insect and moth repellents, coloring agents, antioxidants, chelating agents, Sticky agent, pleats and shape control agent, smoothing agent, wrinkle inhibitor, detergent, disinfectant, bacteria inhibitor, mold inhibitor, mildew suppressant, antiviral agent, desiccant, stain prevention agent, soil release agent, Odor control agent, fabric refreshing agent and freshness extending agent, chlorine bleach odor control agent, dye fixing agent, dye transfer inhibitor, color preservation agent, fluorescent whitening agent, color recovery / regeneration agent, color fading prevention Agents, whiteness enhancers, antifriction agents, antiwear agents, fabric integrity agents, antiwear agents, anti-pilling agents, antifoaming agents and antifoaming agents, UV protection agents for fabrics and skin , Solar degradation inhibitor, antiallergic agent, enzyme, waterproofing , Functional microcapsules containing active substances such as fabric comfort agents, anti-shrink agents, stretch inhibitors, stretch recovery agents, perfumes, silicones, skin care agents, glycerin, and aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter Natural active substances such as, as well as mixtures thereof. The total concentration of optional ingredients is low, preferably less than about 5%, more preferably less than about 3%, even more preferably less than about 2% by weight of the composition used. These optional components exclude other components specifically described above. By incorporating an auxiliary odor suppressor, the ability to suppress the odor of cyclodextrin can be enhanced and the range of odor types and molecular weight sizes that can be suppressed can be expanded. Such materials include, for example, metal salts, water soluble cationic and anionic polymers, zeolites, water soluble bicarbonates, and mixtures thereof.

Career:
The preferred carrier of the present invention is water. The water used can be distilled water, deionized water, or tap water. Water is the main liquid carrier because of its low cost, effectiveness, safety, and environmental compatibility. Aqueous solutions are also preferred when wrinkle control and odor control effects are desired.

  Water is very useful for removing or reducing fabric wrinkles. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that water breaks many intra- and inter-fiber hydrogen bonds that keep the fabric wrinkled. It also swells, lubricates and relaxes the fibers and assists in the wrinkle removal process.

  Water also functions as a liquid carrier for cyclodextrin, facilitating the complexing reaction between the cyclodextrin molecules and any malodorous molecules present on the fabric when processed. The dilute aqueous solution also provides maximum separation of the cyclodextrin molecules on the fabric, thereby maximizing the chance that the odor molecule interacts with the cyclodextrin molecule. In recent years, it has been discovered that water itself has an unexpected odor control effect. It has been discovered that treating odor-stained fabrics with aqueous solutions reduces the intensity of the odor produced by some polar, low molecular weight organic amines, acids and mercaptans. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that water solubilizes these polar, low molecular weight organic molecules and lowers their vapor pressure, thereby reducing odor intensity.

  The concentration of the liquid carrier in the composition of the present invention is typically at least about 80%, preferably greater than about 90%, more preferably greater than about 95% by weight of the composition. When a concentrated composition is used, the concentration of the liquid carrier is typically about 50% or less by weight of the composition, preferably about 40% or less by weight of the composition, more preferably about 30% by weight of the composition. It is as follows.

Water-soluble solvent:
If desired, in addition to water, the carrier can contain a low molecular weight organic solvent that is substantially soluble in water. Non-limiting examples are ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, tertiary butyl alcohol debrominated acetone, acetone, and the like, and mixtures thereof. Low molecular weight alcohol can assist in quickly drying the treated fabric. Other solvents such as ethylene glycol and propylene glycol ethers (eg, ethylene glycol monohexyl ether) and glycols such as glycerin, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, and ethylene glycol can also be used. Other non-limiting examples include 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, 1,2,3-propanetriol, propylene carbonate, phenylethyl alcohol, 2-methyl 1,3-propanediol, hexylene glycol, sorbitol Polyethylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,4 butanediol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, pinacol, 1,5-hexanediol, 1, 6-hexanediol, 2,4-dimethyl-2,4-pentanediol, 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol (and ethoxylate), 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, phenoxyethanol (And ethoxylates), other glycol ethers And butyl carbitol and dipropylene glycol n- butyl ether), an ester solvent (adipic acid, glutaric acid, and dimethyl esters of succinic acid), and mixtures thereof. Optimal solvents are also useful for solubilizing some shape-retaining polymers and some of the aforementioned silicone polymers. The optional water soluble low molecular weight solvent may be up to about 8% by weight of the total composition, typically from about 0.05% to about 8%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 5%, and more. Preferably, it can be used at a concentration of about 0.2 wt% to about 3 wt%. Factors that need to be considered when using high concentrations of solvent in the composition are cost, odor, flammability, and environmental impact. If the intended use of the composition is to dispense it into an automatic clothes dryer (eg spray), a flammable organic solvent is not preferred.

B. Products The present invention may also include a composition and a dispenser for dispensing the composition. Non-limiting examples of suitable dispensers for dispensing or containing compositions include self-pressurized spray containers (such as aerosol containers); sprayers such as trigger sprayers; US Pat. No. 7,059,065 (Gerlach) (Gerlach et al., Issued June 13, 2006), 7,043,855 (Heilman et al., Issued May 16, 2006), US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0143994 (Baron ( Dispensers such as those disclosed in Barron) et al. On July 29, 2004) and 2004/0123489 (published on 1 July 2004 in the name of Pancheri et al.) As well as nebulizers; substrates that carry / contain the composition, such substrates include wipes or pads, or rollers (this 1 One non-limiting example is a substrate such as a lint roller, as well as combinations thereof. If desired, the composition may be dispensed directly onto the fabric to be treated.

  An effective amount of the liquid composition is preferably sprayed onto the fabric, especially clothing. When the composition is sprayed onto the fabric, it is typically from about 0.05% to about 150% by weight of the fabric to be sprayed, preferably until the fabric becomes wet or fully saturated with the composition. Should have an effective amount of about 1.0% to about 75%, more preferably about 2% to about 25% by weight deposited on the fabric. Once sprayed, the fabric is preferably stretched as desired and for the purpose of wrinkle removal. Tensioning can be applied by mechanical means such as by weights, pulleys, etc., or by hand with pulling and pulling action. The fabric is stretched, typically perpendicular to the heel or along the vertical axis of the garment if the fabric hangs down using gravity as tension. The fabric can also be manually stretched and / or shaken after being sprayed to remove the wrinkles.

  Alternatively or in addition, the composition may be added directly and / or dispensed into the fabric treatment device, a non-limiting example of this fabric treatment device includes a fabric cleaning device. (A non-limiting example is a washing machine), a fabric dryer (one non-limiting example is a tumble dryer), a fabric refreshing device (one non-limiting example is a US patent) No. 6,726,186 (Gaaloul et al., Issued on April 27, 2004), No. 6,893,469 (Van Hauwermeiren et al., Issued on May 17, 2005) And No. 6,840,068 (Pasin et al., Issued on Jan. 11, 2005).

1. Self-Pressurized Spray Product In one non-limiting embodiment, the present invention may be a self-pressurized spray product.
(1) A dispensing container capable of maintaining a desired pressure inside the container without causing rupture or deformation;
(2) propellant;
(3) To provide effects such as soot removal and deodorization, which contain water-soluble dialkyl quaternary ammonium compounds, oils containing fragrances and / or hydrocarbons, fully branched hydrocarbons, and optional components described above. An aqueous treatment formulation of
(4) Valve, nozzle opening, and actuator assembly that supplies a uniform aerosolized cone spray with uniform surface coverage during operation.

Pressurized Dispensing Container The dispensing container of the present invention can be any container suitable for holding components under pressure caused by a propellant and is typically referred to as an aerosol container. The design of such containers in the form of metal cans is well known and includes both steel (tinplate) and aluminum aerosol containers. More recently, even plastic containers that can be used to maintain the pressure caused by the propellant in the container have been developed.

  Since aerosol containers are pressurized containers, the specification of such containers is regulated in many countries according to the pressure contained. This has become a number of standard industry specifications for aerosol containers. For example, standard aerosol containers in the United States are typically classified as nonspecification, 2P or 2Q containers. These specifications specify a minimum buckling and bursting pressure for the container and a minimum wall thickness. For example, an aerosol product that exhibits a pressure of less than 1070 kilopascals (“kPa”) at 54.5 ° C. (130 ° F.) is classified as a nonspecification container and is typically not identified. Aerosol systems that exhibit pressures of 1070 kPa to 1200 kPa at 54.5 ° C. are required to use can structures having 2P specifications or higher. Aerosol systems that exhibit pressures of 1200 kPa to 1340 kPa at 54.5 ° C. are typically required to use can structures having 2Q specifications or higher. Similar standards exist in Europe, with alternative designations including the 1200 kPa (12 bar) and 1800 kPa (18 bar) can standards. These industry standards have been developed to maintain tight control over the structure of the aerosol container.

  In the present invention, an aluminum can that satisfies the 2Q specification is desirable. Such cans include, but are not limited to, the CCL Container Aerosol Division (Hermitage, PA) or Exal Container (Youngstown, Ohio). From aerosol container manufacturers.

  The dispensing container can have any suitable shape. For example, cylindrical aerosol cans are well known in the art. In fact, the dimensions of industrial standard cans have also been established on the condition that they are in the range of storage can sizes. These cans are typically specified according to the overall diameter and overall height of the can. Necked cans are commonly used where the container tapers to the inside toward the top of the can. A can having a shoulder may be used. In various embodiments, the container can have many shapes, but a necked cylindrical can shape tends to be ergonomically desirable. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a necked cylindrical can shape having a diameter of 53 mm and a height of about 205 mm may be used.

  Most cans include a coating or liner to protect the container from corrosion and to help protect the product from any possible chemical reaction with the container itself. Even a slight reaction between the product in the container and the container metallurgy can cause excessive pressure conditions due to fragrance changes, color changes, loss of critical component chemical activity, and reactions that generate additional gases. obtain. Therefore, the industry has developed a wide range of coatings and liners to prevent such interactions. These include, but are not limited to, enamel and liners made from the following types of resins: acrylic, male, polyamideimide, alkyd, vinyl, polybutadiene, phenol, epoxy-amine, epoxy-ester, Epoxy-phenol, oil-containing resin, and others. The choice of coating or liner depends on the product characteristics and the metallurgy of the aerosol container. One embodiment using a polyamideimide liner coating is sold as PAM 8460N available from PPG Packaging Coatings, HOBA Division (Grabenstrabe, Germany).

Propellants The propellants of the present invention can maintain a total can pressure of over 446 kPa (50 psig) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.) and over 377 kPa (40 psig) after using 75% of the formulation. The propellant can be selected from a number of propellants commonly used in the aerosol industry. These are typically classified as either liquefied gas propellants or compressed gas propellants. Suitable compressed gas propellants include, but are not limited to, compressed air, nitrogen, laughter, carbon dioxide, and mixtures thereof. Suitable liquefied gas propellants include hydrocarbon propellants such as propane, isobutane, isopropane, isobutene, n-butane, dimethyl ether (“DME”), and mixtures thereof, and hydrofluorocarbons such as HFC152a and HFC134a. However, it is not limited to these.

  The choice of propellant is the main factor that affects the gas pressure in the can during valve operation, and in turn, similarly affects the delivery and impact pressure associated with the spray. In certain embodiments, as the gas volume of the can increases due to product consumption, the liquid phase propellant evaporates and maintains the pressure, thus tending to better maintain the pressure in the can throughout the use of the product. As such, liquefied gas injection may be preferred over compressed gas propellant. If it is desired to control the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOC) emitted by the spray, a compressed gas such as nitrogen may be desired.

  Generally, the propellant is mixed to achieve the desired can pressure. The mixture of propellants can contain propane, isobutane, and n-butane. In various embodiments of the present invention, a mixture of propane and isobutane having a vapor pressure of from about 483 kPa (70 psig) to about 689 kPa (100 psig) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.) may be desirable. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a propane called Aeron A85, available from Diversified CPC International, Inc. (Channahon, Ill., USA) A general blend of isobutane may be used. This blend contains 68.9 mole% propane and 31.1 mole% isobutane and provides a vapor pressure of 586 kPa (85 psig) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.).

  If desired, barrier packaging systems have been developed to separate the propellant from the product in the aerosol container when it is necessary to avoid undue interaction between the propellant and the product. These include CCL Containers, Advanced Monoblock Aerosol Division (ACL) Advanced Barrier System available from CCL Container, Advance Monobloc Aerosol Division (Hermitage, PA). Such piston barrier packaging and bag-in-can packaging. In certain embodiments, these barrier packaging approaches can be employed to obtain more consistent product characteristics throughout the life of the product.

System The self-pressurized spray refreshing article of the present invention may be used alone as a refreshing article or, if desired, with a system for removing wrinkles and odors from the fabric. For example, in one non-limiting example, a self-pressurized candy and odor refreshing article may be used in connection with a laundry process to remove odors prior to washing. For example, self-pressurized wrinkle and scent refreshing articles can be used in connection with fabric cleaning devices, including but not limited to washing machines, where the fabric is treated with self-pressurized wrinkle and odor refreshing articles, Then, it is washed with a fabric washing machine. Alternatively, the fabric can be refreshed with a refreshing device, including, but not limited to, a refreshing cabinet, either before or after treatment with self-pressurized folds and odor refreshing articles. An example is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,726,186. If desired, the self-pressurized wrinkle and odor refreshing article may be used as part of a pre-treatment to pre-treat fabric stains or particularly odorous areas prior to washing and / or refreshing. In addition, if desired, the fabric can be processed in the fabric article drying device either before or after treatment with the self-pressurized wrinkle and odor refreshing article, One non-limiting example is a tumbler dryer.

  In addition, the self-pressurizing refreshing article forms part of a series of fabric treatment products that are useful to provide a fabric treatment effect without the need to rely on a laundry wash process, if desired. May be used, sold, and / or classified with other fabric treatment products. For example, in one non-limiting example, the self-pressurizing refreshing article may be a product for refreshing fabric and / or a product for removing stains and / or a color appearance enhancing product (US Patent Application Publication No. 12/008). , 427 and 12/008504 (both disclosed on Jan. 11, 2008), all of which are applied as part of the laundry cleaning process. It may be applied to the fabric without need. The series of fabric treatment products are also available in different forms. For example, the refreshing product and / or the stain removal product may be in the form of a cloth, wipe, pad, sponge, tape (a non-limiting example is a lint roller or stain removal pen) or in the form of a spray. There may be. Similarly, the color appearance enhancing product may be in the form of a spray or substrate.

Tension When refreshing a fabric article, it is advantageous and preferred to combine the application of tension and product application to reduce the amount of wrinkles in the fabric article. It is particularly advantageous to apply tension during “opportunity” times when the damp fabric is “movable” (can be stretched) and / or remains dry. As used herein, the term “tension” refers to the force applied to a fabric to cause the fiber matrix to stretch, pull or flatten. The tension can be applied in a non-uniform or uniform manner. Examples of non-uniform tension include, but are not limited to, tumble in the dryer and line-drying by wind. Uniform pulling includes, but is not limited to, gravity, hand manipulation in a particular direction (eg, pulling, wrinkling, pulling), ironing, weighting or application of another mechanical pulling system. The magnitude of the combing / reducing effect is proportional to the nature, amount, and duration of the applied tension. In general, the final result is that a uniform tension is superior to a non-uniform tension, and a uniform tension is a large force while a non-uniform tension is a small force.

  The compositions of the present invention can also be used as an ironing aid. An effective amount of the composition can be sprayed onto the fabric, and the fabric is ironed at the normal temperature to be ironed. The fabric can be sprayed with an effective amount of the composition, allowed to dry as it is, and then ironed or ironed immediately after spraying.

  In yet another aspect of the present invention, the composition can be sprayed onto the fabric by a home scraping chamber containing the fabric to be scraped and / or to be deodorized as desired. Can be made easier. Conventional personal and industrial deodorizing and / or scavenging devices are suitable for use herein. Traditionally, these devices operate by a steam process that results in fiber relaxation alternately, even if the fabric is sprayed with a refreshing composition and subsequently exposed to a heated and / or dry environment. Good. An example of a home scavenging chamber is a shower room. Next, spraying of the composition or compound onto the fabric can be performed in the chamber of the device or prior to placing the fabric in the chamber. Again, the spraying means should preferably be capable of providing droplets having a weight average diameter of about 8 to about 100 μm, preferably about 10 to about 50 μm. Preferably, the moisture load on the fabric made of natural and synthetic fibers is from about 0.05% to about 150%, preferably from about 1% to about 75%, more preferably from the sprayed fabric. About 2% to about 25% by weight. Other conventional processes, such as heating and drying, that can be carried out in the scraping device can be applied. Preferably, for optimal benefit, the temperature profile inside the chamber ranges from about 30 ° C to about 80 ° C, more preferably from about 40 ° C to about 70 ° C, and even more preferably from about 50 ° C to about 80 ° C. is there. The preferred length of the drying cycle is from about 3 to about 60 minutes, more preferably from about 10 to about 30 minutes. The steaming step in the scoring apparatus is also omitted if the composition is maintained at a temperature in the range of about 22 ° C. (about 72 ° F.) to about 76 ° C. (170 ° F.) prior to spraying. Also good.

Self-educating merchandise The present invention also includes self-pressurized spray scouring and odor refreshing articles. In connection with the article, a set of instructions may be included that instruct the user to follow a method for removing wrinkles and odors from the fabric with the article. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, such instructions may instruct the user to apply the spray to an area of the fabric where wrinkles have occurred. In another non-limiting embodiment, the instructions may instruct the user to apply the spray to areas of the fabric where wrinkles have been generated or malodorous. In yet another embodiment, the instructions may instruct the user to apply the spray at a distance of about 2 inches to about 8 inches from the surface of the fabric. In yet another embodiment, the instructions may instruct the user to focus the spray on a wrinkled or odorous area and move the spray slowly outward from the center of the area. Good. In yet another embodiment, the instructions may instruct the user to apply the spray to the area of the fabric wrinkle and then apply tension as described above.

  As used herein, “associated with” refers to such instructions, whether the instructions are printed directly on the article, directly on the packaging of the article, or on the packaging for the article. Either printed on an attached label or presented in a different manner, including but not limited to brochures, print advertisements, electronic advertisements, broadcast or internet advertisements, and / or other media. It means that a series of explanations are communicated to the consumer of the article.

Fabric Treatment Methods with Self-Pressurized Spray Soot and Scent Refreshing Articles of the Invention The present invention also includes methods of use for fabric soot and scent refreshing with self-pressurized spray articles of the invention. This includes actuating the spray article such that the spray stream is in contact with the wrinkles or odor areas on the fabric. The method of use optionally includes wiping, blotting, or washing the fabric after the fabric has been contacted by the article.

Test Method Wetting Index Test The wetting index is a test that measures the wetting rate of the product on various fabrics. This test involves placing a drop of the test product (water is the control product) on the fabric sample and measuring the time it takes for the product drop to completely penetrate the fabric surface. . Wetting index is defined as the time taken for the water control to fully penetrate the surface (seconds) divided by the time taken for the test product. A higher number of wetting indices indicates better wetting and can be thought of as representing how many times the product wets faster than water.

This method consists of the following steps:
1) A standard 15.2 cm (6 ″) diameter embroidery ring / hoop is used to hold the fabric material. Place a fabric sample larger than the hoop on the inner hoop so that it lies flat. Place the outer / second hoop on the swatch and push down onto the inner hoop that sandwiches the fabric between the two hoops. This should leave the fabric sample in a flat state that is held at a position between the two hoops with a slight tension.
2) Place the hoop along with the fabric carefully on the horizontal surface so that it does not fold when the fabric outside the hoop is placed on the horizontal surface. The intent is to make the fabric horizontal (vertical or vertical in the direction of gravity) for testing.
3) Mount a VWR 20-200 microliter pipette so that the dispensing tip is 1/4 ± 1/16 inch (0.64 ± 0.16 cm) above the fabric surface (the pipette is perpendicular to the surface). Set pipette to dispense 30 μL drops.
4) Implement a light source to illuminate the fabric at an angle of about 45 degrees to the surface in order to clearly observe drop penetration and determine the end point.
5) Distribute 30 μL drops from the pipette to start the test. As soon as the drops are dispensed and contact the fabric, a timer is started. The end point is established when no free product remains on the surface, as measured by the disappearance of the visible surface reflectivity from the ambient light source. The reflection of light from the product surface as a spot of light is no longer observed, but only the fabric surface is visible. At this point the timer is stopped and the wetting time (T) is recorded.
6) time measurement procedure performed in distilled water, indicating the wetting time as T _w. The time measurement procedure is also performed on the test product and the wetting time is indicated as T _p .
7) wetting index is calculated as WI _{= T} w / T _p.

The following fabric samples were used for the tests reported herein.
100% cotton woven fabric: Style 400 Cotton Print Cloth available from Testfabrics, Inc. (Middlesex, NJ).
75% polyester, 25% cotton woven fabric: Style PC 49 PolyCotton available from Empirical Manufacturing Company (Cincinnati, Ohio).
100% polyester fabric available from Empirical Manufacturing (Cincinnati, Ohio).
100% wool cloth available from Empirical Manufacturing (Cincinnati, Ohio).

Moisture Management Test The use of the fabric refresher composition on the fabric resulted in improved moisture management properties of the treated fabric. Properties commonly used to assess overall moisture management capabilities include wetting time, absorption rate, maximum wetting radius, deployment rate, and unidirectional transport dynamism. The wetting rate is a parameter that teaches the process by which moisture leaves the skin to improve comfort. This measurement is easily performed in the laboratory, as shown in the wetness control test herein.

  The moisture management test is performed in the same way as the wetness index test described above, but in this test the product is sprayed onto the fabric surface as it is in the holding hoop as a pretreatment, and the pretreated fabric is the shortest. Let dry for 2 hours. The product is sprayed onto the fabric with a distance sufficient to obtain a uniform coverage on the fabric with any suitable spraying device. For aerosol containers and pressure-triggered atomizers, the spray distance is about 12.7 cm (5 inches). 1-2 grams of product is applied to the 15.2 cm (6 ″) hoop test area. Once the pretreated fabric has dried, the wetting time for one drop (30 μl) of distilled water is measured after application to the surface in the manner described in the wetting index test. With respect to the moisture management effect, the wetting time for a drop of water is faster after the fabric is treated with the fabric refresher composition compared to that pretreated with water alone.

Product pH after spray test
This test reports the final sprayed pH and measures the pH before and after spraying the product to determine Δ, the change in pH as a result of spraying.

  Samples before and after spraying using a VWR Symphony SP80 PI pH meter with a gel three in one gel pH electrode available from VWR International (West Chester, PA) The pH of was measured. Prior to use, each day, the instrument was calibrated for each manufacturer's procedure using a minimum of two buffers that combined the sample pH range.

  The pH of the test sample is first measured neat or as it is (initial pH) prior to nebulization, and then has a standard swirl chamber atomizer, approximately 1.0-1.5 cc each time it is pulled. Using a dispensing Calmar pressure trigger sprayer, 35-40 grams of test sample is sprayed into a suitable plastic cup at a distance of 15.2 cm (6 ″) above the bottom of the cup.

  Pulling the trigger quickly promotes optimal atomization. After spraying is complete, the final pH is measured. This procedure is repeated 5 times and averaged to obtain a representative initial pH and final pH after spraying.

The change in pH (ΔpH) is calculated as follows: ΔpH = (pH after spraying) − (initial pH)
If ΔpH is positive, spraying has increased the pH, which may be undesirable for acidic products. If ΔpH is negative, spraying has lowered the pH, which can be undesirable for alkaline products.

Odor removal test A
This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the composition in reducing or eliminating malodors from fabrics. The test fabric is first washed in a laundry washer using a non-scented laundry detergent and then dried in a laundry dryer. About 5 milliliters of diluted synthetic body odor composition is applied onto the 81.6 in ² area of each test fabric. The malodorized fabric is dried and then sealed in a bag and allowed to equilibrate overnight at ambient temperature. A qualified odor rating inspector evaluates the initial odor level of the odor treated test fabric according to the odor rating scale below and assigns the odor rating. The malodor treated test fabric is then treated with a corresponding amount of the test composition by spraying an effective amount of the test composition (approximately 60% by weight) onto the test fabric and allowing the test fabric to dry. Once the test fabric has dried, a qualified odor rating inspector will again evaluate the test fabric odor level and assign a odor rating according to the odor rating scale below. Record the initial odor rating and post-treatment odor rating and calculate the difference between these ratings to determine the “Odor Reduction” value.

Odor removal test B
This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the composition in reducing or eliminating malodors from fabrics. The sensory tester is given new clothing and allowed to wear several times without washing during the wearing occasion. A qualified odor rating inspector evaluates the initial odor level of the odor treated test fabric according to the odor rating scale described above and assigns a odor rating. Next, an effective amount of the test composition (about 2% to 5% by weight) is sprayed onto the test garment to allow the test garment to dry so that the malodor-treated test fabric is applied to the corresponding amount of test composition. Process with. Once the test garment has dried, a qualified odor rating inspector again evaluates the odor level of the test garment and assigns a odor rating according to the odor rating scale described above. Record the initial odor rating and post-treatment odor rating and calculate the difference between these ratings to determine the “Odor Reduction” value.

Wrinkle Removal Test This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the composition in reducing or removing wrinkles from fabrics. Smooth appearance (“SA”) (ie, wrinkles caused by washing) or wrinkle recovery (“WR”) (ie, according to the definition of the American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorists (“AATCC”)) (ie, Prepare a test fabric by causing any of wrinkles caused by wearing. A qualified heel rating inspector evaluates the initial heel level of the fabric and assigns a heel score according to AATCC Test Method 128 and Test Method 143. The test fabric is then treated with a corresponding amount of the test composition by spraying the test composition onto the test fabric. While the fabric is wet, the test fabric may be dried by applying tension, e.g., stretching, pulling and / or combing the fabric to promote wrinkle removal. Once the test fabric has dried, a qualified heel rating inspector will again assess the heel according to the AATCC scale.

Microemulsion particle size evaluation:
The average particle size is measured using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS dynamic light scattering unit. All measurements are made at 22 C using a viscosity of 0.954 mPa seconds in a clean disposable 10 mm cuvette. The operation is verified using checks of a 100 nm National Institute of Standards and Technology (“NIST”) standard dispersed in 10 mmol NaCl. Allow the sample to equilibrate for 10 minutes.

  The instrument is set to attenuation and measurement position using the operating software's internal optimization algorithm. The result of taking the average of 30 runs of 20 seconds. Three runs are performed for each sample to prepare a total of three results for each sample. The sample can be passed through a 0.5 micrometer filter prior to analysis to remove any large contaminants.

  The average particle diameter for each sample is reported by the Malvern software as the Z average parameter.

（１）アクゾ・ノーベル・ケミカル（Akzo Nobel Chemical）（オランダ、アーネム（Arnhem））から入手可能
（２）ダウ・コーニング社（Dow Corning Corporation）（ミシガン州ミッドランド（Midland））から入手可能
（３）プレスパース社（Presperse Inc.）（ニュージャージー州サマセット（Somerset））から入手可能
（４）エクソンモービル社（ExxonMobile Inc.）（テキサス州アーヴィング（Irving））から入手可能
（５）エアープロダクツ・アンド・ケミカルズ社（Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.）（ペンシルバニア州アレンタウン（Allentown））から入手可能
（６）ＧＥシリコーンズ（GESilicones）（コネチカット州ウィルトン（Wilton））から入手可能
（７）クローダ社（Croda Inc.）（ニュージャージー州エジソン（Edison））から入手可能
（８）ロンザ・グループ社（Lonza Group Ltd.）（スイス、バーゼル（Basel））から入手可能
（９）コグニス・オレオケミカルズ（Cognis Oleochemicals）（マレーシア、スランゴル（Selangor））から入手可能

(1) Available from Akzo Nobel Chemical (Arnhem, The Netherlands) (2) Available from Dow Corning Corporation (Midland, Michigan) (3) Available from Presperse Inc. (Somerset, NJ) (4) Available from ExxonMobile Inc. (Irving, Texas) (5) Air Products and Available from Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (Allentown, Pa.) (6) Available from GE Silicones (Wilton, Connecticut) (7) Croda Inc. (Edison, NJ) (8) Lonza Group (Lonz) a Group Ltd. (Basel, Switzerland) (9) Available from Cognis Oleochemicals (Selangor, Malaysia)

（１）アクゾ・ノーベル・ケミカル（Akzo Nobel Chemical）（オランダ、アーネム（Arnhem））から入手可能
（２）ダウ・コーニング社（Dow Corning Corporation）（ミシガン州ミッドランド（Midland））から入手可能
（３）プレスパース社（Presperse Inc.）（ニュージャージー州サマセット（Somerset））から入手可能
（４）エクソンモービル社（ExxonMobile Inc.）（テキサス州アーヴィング（Irving））から入手可能
（５）エアープロダクツ・アンド・ケミカルズ社（Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.）（ペンシルバニア州アレンタウン（Allentown））から入手可能
（６）ＧＥシリコーンズ（GESilicones）（コネチカット州ウィルトン（Wilton））から入手可能
（７）クローダ社（Croda Inc.）（ニュージャージー州エジソン（Edison））から入手可能
（８）ロンザ・グループ社（Lonza Group Ltd.）（スイス、バーゼル（Basel））から入手可能
（９）コグニス・オレオケミカルズ（Cognis Oleochemicals）（マレーシア、スランゴル（Selangor））から入手可能
（１０）ローム＆ハース（Rohm & Haas）（ペンシルバニア州フィラデルフィア（Philadelphia））から入手可能

(1) Available from Akzo Nobel Chemical (Arnhem, The Netherlands) (2) Available from Dow Corning Corporation (Midland, Michigan) (3) Available from Presperse Inc. (Somerset, NJ) (4) Available from ExxonMobile Inc. (Irving, Texas) (5) Air Products and Available from Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (Allentown, Pa.) (6) Available from GE Silicones (Wilton, Connecticut) (7) Croda Inc. (Edison, NJ) (8) Lonza Group (Lonz) available from a Group Ltd. (Basel, Switzerland) (9) Available from Cognis Oleochemicals (Selangor, Malaysia) (10) Rohm & Haas ( Available from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Examples 1 and 2: Malodor removal and soot removal Composition A in Table 1 above is used. While stirring, add hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin and TEA to purified water (mix A). Add Permethyl 102A to Arquad HTL8MS with stirring in a separate vessel. Perfume is then added and the mixture is stirred, resulting in a single-phase clear mixture (Mix B). While stirring in a separate container, 104 pg of SURFYNOL is mixed with Surfinol 465 in a 3: 2 ratio (Mix C). Add Mix B to Mix A with stirring. After stirring for 10 minutes, mix C is then added. The pH of the mixture is adjusted to 8.4 with HCl and the final mixture is stirred for an additional 10 minutes. The surface tension of this mixture is approximately 26-29 dynes / cm.

Composition A is sprayed onto the fabric from a 53 × 205 mm 2Q aluminum can with a PAM Liner available from CCL Container (Hermitage, Pa.). This can is mated with a Moritz locking aerosol actuator available from SeaquistPerfect Dispensing LLC (Cary, Ill.). This actuator is mated with an Xt-96 valve type having a 0.04 inch (0.016 inch) valve stem orifice diameter and a 0.04 cm (0.016 inch) valve body orifice diameter. A DU3027 insertion type with an 0.03 cm (0.012 inch) orifice diameter is used. Fill cans to approximately 60% by volume of Composition A. Nitrogen is added through the valve stem to approximately 965 kPa (140 psi) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.) and to approximately 1069 kPa (155 psi) at 54 ° C. (130 ° F.). When activated, the product emits a spray stream at a mass release rate of approximately 1.1 g / sec. The coverage concentration is uniform so that product wet patches that are apparent to the consumer are avoided with proper use. The ease and convenience of application is superior to conventional manual sprayers. Efficient odor reduction and refreshing delivery by the product is achieved, as measured by the test method described in the Test Method section of the present disclosure, and efficient wrinkle removal is also achieved when the fabric is pulled. .

Example 3: Wrinkle Removal Test Three different fabrics are evaluated for wrinkle removal using the SA wrinkle test method. By the method outlined above, wrinkles are pre-generated in 100% cotton Capri pants, 55/40 poly / cotton white woven shirt, and 100% cotton woven blue cotton shirt. Using a pressure-triggered manual sprayer from Calmar, spray the garment on one side with uniform coverage. The garment is then pulled by hand pulling and pulling. The amount sprayed on Capri pants, white poly / cotton shirt, and blue cotton shirt is approximately 10 grams, 5 grams, and 8 grams, respectively. For each treatment, spray three replicates of each garment. The initial heel grade and final grade are recorded by three judges and the overall average delta (average final grade-average initial grade) in the heel grade is calculated for each garment type. A positive result for the overall average delta grade indicates wrinkle removal and a larger number represents a better result (more wrinkle reduction).

  These examples show that the present composition can provide an improvement of approximately 1-1.5 in wrinkle grade in these different garments. This is the level of improvement that consumers can notice. It should be noted that the good soot removal performance for these compositions is consistent with these wetting indices.

Example 4 Product pH after spray test
Composition C is prepared as described above and repeated again, but without the triethanolamine (TEA) buffer. Adjust the pH of the sample to 7.8 with diluted hydrochloric acid and allow the sample to equilibrate overnight.

  The above examples show how the addition of a buffer can help reduce the pH change of an alkaline product when sprayed through air.

^＊水についての濡れ指数は、デフォルトで１．０である Example 5: Wetting index test Compositions C, D, E, F, G are prepared as described above based on water-soluble quaternary ammonium compounds and evaluated in a wetting index test using a cotton substrate. . Three iterations (Rep) are performed and then averaged.

^* The wetness index for water is 1.0 by default

^＊水についての濡れ指数は、デフォルトで１．０である Example 6: Wetting Index Test Compositions C, D, E, F, G are prepared as described above based on water soluble quaternary ammonium compounds and use a poly-cotton 75/25 substrate. It will be evaluated in the test. Three iterations (Rep) are performed and then averaged.

^* The wetness index for water is 1.0 by default

^＊水についての濡れ指数は、デフォルトで１．０である Example 7: Wetting Index Test Compositions C and D are prepared as described above based on water soluble quaternary ammonium compounds and evaluated in a wetting index test using polyester and wool substrates. Three iterations (Rep) are performed and then averaged. In this test, the water droplets penetrate very slowly, so the test is stopped after 3 minutes and the time is described as over 180 seconds.

^* The wetness index for water is 1.0 by default

Example 8: Moisture Management Test Two fabrics where moisture management is of particular interest are based on 100% cotton and 100% polyester. Compositions C and D are prepared as described above based on water soluble quaternary ammonium compounds and are evaluated in a wetting index test using polyester and cotton substrates. Four iterations (Rep) are performed and then averaged. In this test, the water droplets penetrate very slowly, so the test is stopped after 5 minutes and the time is described as over 300 seconds.

  The data in this example shows how water pre-absorbed by the treated fabric surface shows how pre-treatment of some fabrics with the disclosed composition creates an impression difference. It will be shown.

Example 9: Microemulsion particle size analysis Compositions H and I were prepared with the same surfactant concentration and are similar to compositions C and D, respectively, but H and I were added to the cyclohexane added. The cyclodextrin has been removed so as to obtain as accurate a reading as possible with the particle size of the microemulsion formed without possible interference from the dextrin.

Three versions of composition H are produced with different concentrations of perfume. The oil component in this case constitutes a perfume having a clogP of 3.79 and a permethyl 102A having a clogP of 6.58 as calculated by the LogP predictor from ChemSilo LLC. The oil is mixed with Arquad HTL8MS surfactant at room temperature and then added to the water and TEA mixture. Low shear propeller mixing is used to obtain the final mixture. As a final step, titrate the H ₂ SO ₄ solution to adjust the pH to its final value.

Three versions of Composition I are made with different concentrations of perfume. The oil component in this case constitutes a perfume having a CLogP of 3.79. The oil is mixed with the UNIQUAT 22c50 surfactant at room temperature and then added to the water and TEA mixture. Low shear propeller mixing is used to obtain the final mixture. As a final step, titrate the H ₂ SO ₄ solution to adjust the pH to its final value.

  Various versions of Composition H and Composition I are analyzed by the particle size method described herein, and the average of three replicates for each sample is taken as the final reported diameter (nanometers).

  The above data show that there is a limit to the amount of oil that the quaternary surfactant system can tolerate and maintain microemulsion properties. Beyond an average particle size of 300 nm, the system behaves as a microemulsion in which high opacity and heterogeneity are observed within 2 days.

Example 10: Static Control This test demonstrates the characteristic static suppression of these compositions as demonstrated on a 100% polyester shirt.

  The test uses a typical 100% polyester women's blouse, Lady Edwards ™ style 5050-00 cut SN0414. The front side of the shirt is divided into a left half and a right half by lowering the masking tape line vertically from the middle of the shirt. For 8 round trips along the length of the shirt, the sleeves on each side of the shirt are rubbed vertically with their front halves of the shirt sleeve to generate static electricity on that side of the shirt. As described above, each side is evaluated for the presence of static electricity using a Greenlee non-contact voltage detector model GT-11. Next, using a pressure-triggered manual sprayer, spray uniformly on each side, spray 6 grams of composition C in Table 1 on the left half, and spray 6 grams of distilled water on the right half. . After spraying, after waiting for 15 seconds, evaluate each side for static electricity while still wet. The shirt is allowed to dry for 90 minutes and then the sleeve is again rubbed 8 times on its respective side to attempt to regenerate static electricity. After friction, each side is evaluated for the presence of static electricity again using a GT-11 non-contact voltage detector.

  The results of this test show that water can temporarily dissipate pre-formed static electricity on the fabric, but water does not prevent subsequent static charge accumulation. Quaternary ammonium compound-based microemulsions not only dissipate the static electricity formed on the fabric surface, but the subsequent quaternary ammonium compound properties and the excellent wetting coverage that these compositions provide provides further static electricity. Prevents the generation of

  While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Let's go. Accordingly, it is intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention. All cited documents are incorporated herein by reference in the relevant part. Citation of any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.

Claims (12)

A composition for treating fabric, wherein the composition comprises:
a) about 0.01% to about 20% of a water-soluble quaternary ammonium surfactant;
b) about 0.001% to about 5% of a substantially water-insoluble oil component;
c) optionally from about 0.01% to about 5% of a nonionic surfactant;
d) optionally from about 0.01% to about 3% buffer;
e) optionally about 0.01% to about 5% odor control agent;
f) about 0.001% to about 0.5% of an antimicrobial agent, if desired;
g) optionally a pH adjusting agent sufficient to achieve a pH of about 3 to about 11;
h) optionally about 0.001% to about 0.5% preservative;
i) optionally from about 0.05% to about 8% of a substantially water-soluble solvent;
j) the remaining water,
Including
A composition wherein the composition is homogeneous and stable.   The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises a microemulsion having an average particle size of about 300 nm or less.   The composition of claim 2, wherein the composition is transparent.   The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition has a wetting index of about 2 in cotton fabric. A method for treating fabric, said method comprising:
a)
i) about 0.01% to about 20% of a water-soluble quaternary ammonium surfactant;
ii) about 0.001% to about 5% of a substantially water-insoluble oil component;
iii) the remaining water,
Providing a composition comprising:
b) applying the composition to a fabric;
Including a method.   The method of claim 5, wherein the composition is applied to the fabric by spraying.   The method of claim 6, further comprising pulling the fabric either before or after the step of applying the composition to the fabric.   The method of claim 5, wherein the fabric is placed in a washing machine either before or after the step of applying the composition to the fabric.   The method of claim 5, wherein the fabric is placed in a refreshing apparatus either before or after the step of applying the composition to the fabric.   The method of claim 5, wherein the fabric is placed in a drying apparatus prior to the step of applying the composition to the fabric.   A self-pressurizing fabric refreshing article, the self-pressurizing fabric refreshing article comprising the composition of claim 1.   The self-pressurizing fabric refreshing article according to claim 11, wherein the self-pressurizing fabric refreshing article is part of a series of products further comprising a product for stain removal or a product for color enhancement.