JP7343550B2 - Apparatus and method for controlling mold - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for controlling mold. More particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for suppressing mold and musty odors within an internally occupied space.

Automotive air fresheners are widely used to provide a pleasant aroma in the vehicle environment. Hanging cardboard strips sprayed with air fresheners, aerosol air fresheners, air freshener cans filled with scented gel, plug-in air fresheners that can be plugged into a vehicle outlet, and vehicle vent louvers. There are various forms of automotive air fresheners, including attachable car vent air fresheners. In detail, the air freshener for car vents provides at least one Provide benefits. However, it is difficult to deal with the many sources of bad odors inside a car, and moldy odors are a particular problem. Mold odor is caused by mold caused by the use of air conditioning systems or heaters in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and the resulting condensation buildup within the evaporator of the air conditioning system. Mold odor enters the passenger compartment, creating an unpleasant and unhealthy environment for users inside the vehicle. Car vent air freshener products have been used against musty odors inside cars, but while these products can simply mask musty odors by providing fragrance, they do not necessarily prevent mold growth. It is not useful for preventing Additionally, there continues to be a need to provide users with a "balanced" scent experience, which typically includes high, middle, and base "notes" of a scent.

Thus, providing a volatile composition that helps inhibit mold growth (thereby reducing mold odors) while providing the balanced aroma that users expect to enjoy in premium automotive air freshener products. There is a need to provide a device that can be attached to the vents of a car to provide an experience.

The present invention is a device for suppressing mold odors in an internally occupied space, the device being operably connectable to a mounting portion for removably attaching the device to an air vent of a motor vehicle, the device comprising:
a reservoir containing a volatile composition in fluid communication with the substrate, the volatile composition comprising: (i) at least 0.2% by weight of the C5-C8 unbranched, unsubstituted linear chain; alkenal,
(ii) at least 0.2% by weight of a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal.

1 is a side sectional view of a device for suppressing mold odor according to the present invention; FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 1 in a vertical orientation when the device is placed on a support; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of the vapor phase of a volatile composition across the membrane of the device shown in FIG. 1 when the device is placed in a vent in fluid communication with an evaporator; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of the vapor phase of a volatile composition across the membrane of the device shown in FIG. 1 when the device is placed in a vent in fluid communication with an evaporator; FIG. Figure 4 shows a fourth step of the method, in which vapor molecules are attached to an evaporator placed in the space. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the components of a variant of the device for suppressing mold odors according to the invention; Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the assembled device shown in Figure 4, prior to operation; 5B is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 5A after activation; FIG. 5A and 5B are front perspective views of the apparatus of FIGS. 5A and 5B being used in an automotive environment; FIG.

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for continuously suppressing mold odor in an internally occupied space. In particular, the device comprises a reservoir for containing a liquid or solid phase of a volatile composition. The volatile composition comprises a mixture of C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals and C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals. This mixture can continuously evaporate under passive airflow conditions, can be deposited on mold-bearing surfaces to inhibit mold growth, and the musty odor evaporates back into the air over time. This can be suppressed. Surprisingly, attaching a device having a volatile composition to a vent of an air conditioning system in fluid communication with an evaporator allows for release of the volatile composition from the device through the vent, thereby: By allowing C5 to C8 unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenals and C9 to C14 unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenals to adhere to the evaporator on which mold has adhered, mold on the evaporator can be removed. It was found that the growth of was inhibited, thereby reducing the mold odor on the evaporator.

The technical effect of a volatile composition having a mixture of a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is that the volatile composition is by measurably inhibiting mold growth (e.g., by in vitro microbial testing by simulating the environment of the evaporator space in a car), rather than simply masking or masking mold odors. This is something that can be reduced. In the short term, the mold-inhibiting effects of volatile compositions can, for example, reduce the level of mold odors in the air that are currently perceived by humans. In the long term, the present invention can prevent mold odors from recirculating within the space and remaining on the surface of the car seat. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that C5-C8 and C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals have higher reactivity towards molds compared to other aromatic aldehydes; Therefore, it is considered to be effective in suppressing mold on inanimate surfaces.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenals do not have a carbonyl carbon functionality adjacent to the aromatic ring (present in Ligustraal). Therefore, the carbonyl group of an unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenal is more acidic/electrophilic. The higher electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon of an unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenal makes the linear alkenal more reactive towards aromatic aldehydes. Aromatic aldehydes (such as Ligustraal) have a carbonyl carbon group adjacent to the aromatic ring, and therefore the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon is enhanced by redistributing the electropositivity throughout the aromatic ring rather than only on the carbonyl carbon. becomes lower. The presence of at least a double bond improves the mold suppression effect. Furthermore, by having two types of unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenals instead of one type, each alkenal acts in sequence to continuously improve the overall mold control effect, thereby increasing the resistance. Synergistic effects occur because mechanisms are less likely to occur.

Furthermore, the C5-C8 unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenal and the C9-C14 unbranched, unsubstituted linear alkenal have different vaporization rates, and by acting in sequence, the overall Since the mold odor suppressing effect can be continuously improved, having two different types of alkenals instead of one type of alkenal increases the sustainability of the mold suppressing effect. Exemplary alkenals are listed in the legend below and are named according to the nomenclature for organic compounds recommended by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). .

One of the benefits is that the evaporator does not become a source of moldy odors. Therefore, by providing a device according to the invention in an internal space, it is possible to suppress mold and musty odors on the evaporator in a passive and continuous manner, so that over time mold odors become trapped in the air. It acts to reduce or prevent volatilization.

In the following description, the described apparatus evaporates volatile compositions within the interior space of a motor vehicle to prevent, freshen, and remove malodor from the air within the interior space, such as the passenger compartment space of the vehicle. or consumer products such as automotive air fresheners to provide various benefits such as fragrance. However, the device may be configured to be used in a variety of applications to deliver volatile compositions to effect interior occupancies such as rooms in homes and commercial establishments equipped with air conditioning systems. Conceivable devices include, but are not limited to, consumer products such as air freshening products, air fresheners, and the like.

The apparatus may also include a supply member configured to contain a liquid phase of the volatile composition and to evaporate the liquid phase of the volatile composition. The delivery member may include porous or semi-porous substrates including wicks, membranes, gels, felt pads. An exemplary delivery member may be a membrane, which is a semi-permeable material that allows certain components of the substance to pass through while blocking other components. For components passing through the membrane, the membrane modulates the permeability of the components (ie, certain components pass through more quickly than others). Such components can include molecules, ions, or particles.

For purposes of describing the invention in detail, the invention is described below as a non-energized device having a membrane in fluid communication with a volatile composition. However, it will be appreciated that the volatile composition may be delivered from the device through the wick to the space. Furthermore, the device of the invention may be energized or non-energized. Prior to describing the present invention in detail, the following terms will be defined for ease of understanding. Terms not defined should be given their ordinary meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

As used herein, "horizontal orientation" refers to the position of the device according to the invention in which the membrane faces the environment in an upward or downward position.

"Internally occupied space" refers to a finite volume of space in a residential, commercial, or vehicular environment.

As used herein, "membrane" refers to a semipermeable material that allows certain components of a substance to pass through while blocking other components. For components passing through the membrane, the membrane modulates the permeability of the components (ie, certain components pass through more quickly than others). Such components can include molecules, ions, or particles.

As used herein, "microporous membrane" refers to a material that has a network of pores.

"Non-energized" means that the device is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. In particular, the device need not be powered by a heat source, gas, or electrical current. The device may be configured as an energized device. An exemplary energized device may be an electrical device. The energy-applied device may be a motor vehicle electrical outlet or a battery having a wick and/or membrane as described in the legend below for transporting the volatile composition and/or vaporizing the volatile composition. It may be an actuated air freshener or other heating device (eg, a device powered by a chemical reaction such as a catalytic fuel system, a solar powered device, etc.).

As used herein, "touch point" refers to a point of contact or interaction between a volatile composition and a consumer of the volatile composition.

"Vertical" as used herein refers to the position of the device according to the invention facing the environment, such that the membrane is in a forward facing position or in a rearward facing position.

As used herein, the term "volatile material" refers to a material that can be volatile at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without the need for an additional energy source. Volatile compositions include, but are not limited to, air freshening, deodorization, odor removal, malodor neutralization, pest control, insecticidal, insect repellent, drug/medicine, disinfectant, disinfectant, mood-enhancing effect, aroma therapeutic aids, scented compositions, non-scented compositions, or any other use requiring volatile compositions that act to modulate, modify, or otherwise alter the atmosphere or environment. It can be configured to suit various uses, including: Furthermore, not all of the component materials of a volatile composition need be volatile. Any suitable volatile material in any amount or form can be used, including liquids, solids, gels, or emulsions. Materials suitable for use herein may include non-volatile compounds such as carrier materials (eg, water, solvents, etc.). When a volatile composition is referred to herein as being "supplied," "volatized," or "emitted," this refers to the volatilization of the volatile components of the volatile composition; It should also be understood that the non-volatile components of the volatile composition need not be volatilized.

FIG. 1 shows a side sectional view of the device 1 according to the invention in the horizontal direction, when the device 1 is arranged on a support. The device 1 can be configured as a disposable, single-use article or as an article that is refilled with volatile materials. The device 1 comprises a container 10 containing a reservoir 11 with a volatile composition 12 . Container 10 may be formed of a substantially vapor-impermeable material designed to resist vapor phase diffusion of volatile composition 12. For example, the container 10 may be made of metal, glass, ceramic, porcelain, tile, etc., including, but not limited to, thermoplastic materials, as well as other known materials suitable for thermoforming, injection molding, and blow molding. , and can be made of plastic. Membrane 13 can be disposed within container 10 and configured to be in fluid communication with volatile composition 12 . Device 1 may further include a vapor impermeable substrate 14 adjacent membrane 13, vapor impermeable substrate 14 configured to prevent release of volatile composition 12 prior to use. There is.

Volatile composition 12 comprises at least 0.2% by weight of volatile composition 12 of a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and at least 0.2% C9-C14 unbranched alkenal. and unsubstituted linear alkenals. The provision of a volatile composition having a mixture of alkenals in the above range in the process according to the invention and the effective inhibition of mold on surfaces is demonstrated in Example I. Specifically, the data for Example I shows that C6 alkenal ((E)-2-hexen-1-al) in an amount of 0.25% by weight of the composition and C10 alkenal in an amount of 0.25% by weight of the composition. (4-decen-1-al) gives a mold sporicidal efficiency higher than 99%. This compares to Comparative Composition E, which does not contain C6 alkenal ((E)-2-hexen-1-al) and C10 alkenal (4-decen-1-al), which has a mold sporicidal efficiency of 40%. This is an improvement.

The C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal may have one double bond, preferably the one double bond is at the C3, C4, or C5 position, more preferably at the C3 or at the C4 position, even more preferably at the C4 position. The C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal contains one double bond, preferably the one double bond is at the C2, C3 or C4 position, more preferably at the C2 or C3 position. , even more preferably at the C2 position. The C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal comprises from 0.2% to 10%, preferably from 0.2% to 8%, even more preferably 0.2% by weight of the composition. ~5% by weight. The C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal comprises from 0.2% to 10%, preferably from 0.2% to 8%, even more preferably 0.2% by weight of the composition. ~5% by weight. Still further, the volatile composition 12 may include a mixture of a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal; is an amount of 1.5% by weight of the composition.

The C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is a C9-C12, preferably C9-C11, more preferably C10 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal. The C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is a C5-C7, preferably C6 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal. Exemplary C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals that can be used include, but are not limited to, the alkenals shown in Table 1 below. Exemplary C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals that can be used include, but are not limited to, the alkenals shown in Table 2 below.

Table 3 shows a mixture of C5-C8 and C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals suitable for use in the volatile compositions of the present invention.

The volatile composition may optionally include odor masking agents, odor blocking agents, and/or diluents. "Odor blocking" refers to the ability of compounds to dull a person's sense of smell. "Odor masking" refers to the ability of a compound to mask or mask the odor of malodorous compounds. Odor masking can include compounds with non-offensive or pleasant odors that are administered to limit the ability to detect malodorous compounds. Odor masking may involve the selection of compounds that cooperate with the expected malodor to change the overall odor perception provided by the combination of odorant compounds. Exemplary diluents include dipropylene glycol methyl ether and 3-methoxy-3-methyl-1-butanol, and mixtures thereof. The volatile composition may optionally include perfume materials that merely provide a hedonic effect (ie, perfume materials that do not inhibit mold, but provide a pleasant odor). A volatile composition 12 may be included in the device 1 as shown in the figures according to the invention. For the purpose of explaining the invention in detail, the invention will be described below in the context of a motor vehicle. However, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be practiced within any interior occupancy that utilizes an HVAC system.

Referring to FIG. 1, a vapor impermeable substrate 14 can be removably attached to the outer periphery of the membrane 13 to form a peelable cover of the device 1. Vapor impermeable substrate 14 can be breakable to allow volatile composition 12 to pass through when broken. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, vapor impermeable substrate 14 is disposed adjacent membrane 13 and attached to the inner periphery of container 10 to form a sealed reservoir adjacent membrane 13. , can be a breakable substrate.

The device 1 can be configured to be used in any desired orientation, including but not limited to the vertical orientation, as shown in FIG. FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of the device 1 of FIG. 1. The device 1 is substantially the same as the device 1 of FIG. 1, except that during use of the device 1, the user is required to operate the device 1 as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. When the impermeable substrate 14 is removed, the membrane 13 has a first surface 20 disposed in fluid communication with the volatile composition 12 and a first surface 20 facing the environment and away from the volatile composition 12. The difference is that it includes a second surface 22 facing . To explain how volatile composition 12 provides mold control benefits to evaporators in accordance with the present invention, it is useful to understand how the vapor release rate of volatile composition 12 occurs. It is. The mold suppression method based on the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A to 3C. The method includes operably connecting an apparatus of the invention to a fitted portion and attaching the fitted portion to a vent in fluid communication with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

In Figures 3A, 3B and 3C the device 1 is in a substantially vertical position. Container 10 is partially filled with volatile composition 12. FIG. 3A shows a first step 3A of the method in which the device 1 is operably connected to a mounting part 23, followed by a space in which the mounting part 23 is located behind the dashboard and under the hood of a motor vehicle. A second stage 3B is shown attached to a vent 30 in fluid communication with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 31 located within 32. The device 1 can be activated before, during or after the connection with the mounting part 23. The vent 30 may include a plurality of louvers 33 and the device 1 may be attached to the vent 30 by engaging the mounting portion 23 with the louvers 33. HVAC system 31 includes an evaporator 34 located downstream of vent 30.

Referring to FIG. 3A, liquid phase 12A of volatile composition 12 passes through membrane 13 from first surface 121 until a sufficiently high concentration of molecules is absorbed within membrane 13. Liquid phase 12A of volatile composition 12 can wet membrane 13 by capillary flow of volatile composition 12 into the pores of membrane 13. When the membrane 13 is wetted, the liquid phase 12A of the volatile composition 12 is located near or at the second surface 22 of the membrane 13 such that the molecules near the second surface 22 are has sufficient kinetic energy to evaporate from the second surface 22 into a vapor phase of the volatile composition ("vaporization") and enter the space 32 through the vent 30 as shown in FIG. 3B. It forms a vapor 12B that passes through.

FIG. 3B shows a third step 3C of the method in which vapor 12B is formed in space 32, and FIG. , which shows the fourth step 3D of the method. Specifically, steam 12B is heated for an effective period of time that is sufficient to raise the concentration level of molecules in steam 12B to a concentration such that steam molecules 12C adhere to evaporator 34 as shown in FIG. 3C. , formed within the space 32. Specifically, the rate of vapor release of the vapor 12B into the space 32 is such that a predetermined amount of vapor molecules 12C of the vapor 12B adhere to the evaporator surface 35 of the evaporator 34. The amount of vapor molecules 12C deposited contains an effective amount of C5-C8 and C9-C14 unsubstituted and unbranched linear alkenals in the volatile composition 12 deposited on the evaporator surface. Thereby, the present invention achieves a reduction in the amount of mold as described in Example I and a reduction in mold odor as described in Example II.

By using the method of the present invention described above, a volatile mold control composition can be provided substantially continuously. Furthermore, the method may allow the delivery of a volatile composition with improved mold control effect over the intended use time of the device 1. Continuous volatilization of the volatile composition may include, but is not limited to, 20 days, 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, shorter or longer periods, or any period between 30 and 90 days. It may be.

The method of the present invention can be applied to mold inhibiting effects, fragrances, air fresheners, deodorants, deodorants, malodor neutralizers, insecticides, insect repellents, pharmaceutical substances, disinfectants, disinfectants, mood enhancers, and aroma Suitable for the purpose of providing therapy aids or for any other purpose in which substances are used which act to modulate, modify or otherwise alter the atmosphere or environment.

The method of the present invention is a method for suppressing mold odor in an internally occupied space, comprising:
A method can be provided that includes the steps of operably connecting a device of the invention to a mounting portion and attaching the mounting portion to a vent.

The method of the present invention is a method of demonstrating the effectiveness of a volatile composition for reducing mold odor, comprising:
operably connecting a device of the invention to a fitted portion; and attaching the fitted portion to a vent, wherein the volatile composition is determined according to the SIM test method described below in “Test Methods.” and having an average musty odor intensity value of 20 or less. The effect will be described in Example III below.

The apparatus 1 of the present invention supplies the volatile composition 12 to the atmosphere and/or the surface so long as the volatile composition 12 is able to evaporate from the membrane 13 and come into contact with the molded surface. It can be configured to be used in a variety of applications to prevent mold.

Accordingly, the particular physical properties of the membrane 13 make the particular physical characteristics of the device 1 designed to be actuated by peeling off the vapor-impermeable substrate 14 or by rupturing the vapor-impermeable substrate 14 The choice can be made based on the desired application. Membranes and vapor impermeable substrates designed to be removably attached are well known and will not be described further. Examples of suitable physical parameters of the membrane 13 and vapor impermeable substrate 14 suitable for a device 1 designed to be operated by rupturing the vapor impermeable substrate 14 are described below.

Membrane 13 can be a microporous membrane, about 0.01 to about 1 micron, about 0.01 to about 0.06 micron, about 0.01 to about 0.05 micron, about 0.01 to about It can have an average pore size of 0.04 micron, about 0.01 to about 0.03 micron, about 0.02 to about 0.04 micron, or about 0.02 micron. Additionally, membrane 12 may be filled with any suitable fillers and plasticizers known in the art. Fillers can include finely divided silica, clays, zeolites, carbonates, activated carbon, and mixtures thereof. An example of a filled membrane is a silica-filled ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) membrane, such as that described in US Pat. No. 7,498,369. Although any suitable filler material and weight percentage may be used, typical fill percentages for silica include from about 50% to about 80%, from about 60% to about 80%, of the total weight of the membrane. It can be about 70% to about 80%, or about 70% to about 75%. Examples of suitable film thicknesses include, but are not limited to, about 0.01 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.1 mm to 0.4 mm, about 0.15 mm to about 0.35 mm, or about 0.25 mm. Can be mentioned. Furthermore, the evaporation surface area of the membrane 12 is about 2 cm ² to about 100 cm ² , about 2 cm ² to about 25 cm ² , about 10 cm ² to about 50 cm ² , about 10 cm ² to about 45 cm ² , about 10 cm ² to about 35 cm ² , It can be about 15 cm ² to about 40 cm ² , about 15 cm ² to about 35 cm ² , about 20 cm ² to about 35 cm 2 , about 30 cm ² to about 35 cm ² , about 35 ^{cm 2 .}

Vapor-impermeable substrate 14 may be formed of any material that can be ruptured by the application of a predetermined force (with or without an element, such as a rupture element, to assist in such rupture). In embodiments where the vapor-impermeable substrate 40 is intended to contain the volatile composition when the device 1 is not in use, the vapor-impermeable substrate 40 prevents evaporation of the volatile composition 12. It can be formed of any suitable barrier material that reduces or prevents. Such materials can be impermeable to vapors and liquids. Suitable barrier materials for the vapor-impermeable substrate 40 include coated or uncoated materials, such as, but not limited to, polymeric films, webs, foils, and composite materials such as foil/polymer film laminates. An example is film. Examples of foils that can be used as barrier materials include micron scale aluminum, including nitrocellulose protective lacquer, polyurethane primer, and a 15 g/m ² polyethylene coating sold by Alcan Packaging (Lidfoil 118-0092). There is foil. Suitable polymeric films include, but are not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, acrylonitrile copolymer barrier films (such as those sold under the trademark Barex® by INOES), ethylene vinyl alcohol. films, and combinations thereof. It is also conceivable to use a coated barrier film as vapor-impermeable substrate 14. Such coated barrier films include, but are not limited to, metallized PET, metalized polypropylene, silica or alumina coated films.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of each component in a modification of the device 1 for controlling mold according to the present invention. The device 1 of FIG. 4 has substantially the same features as the device 1 of FIG. 1, and further components will be described below.

Referring to FIG. 4, the device 1 includes a housing 40 having a front cover 42 and a rear frame 44, the front cover 42 and the rear frame 44 defining an interior space. Rear frame 44 may have a pair of protrusions 48 positioned adjacent frame opening 46 and extending from rear frame 44 . Protrusion 48 may be shaped and sized to engage pin 25 extending from mounting portion 23 . The mounting part 23 can be attached to the device 1, movably attached, rotatably attached or pivotably attached. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting portion 23 may be configured to be movable relative to the housing 40 for actuating the device 1. In such an example, rear frame 44 may be provided with a frame opening 46 located approximately in the center of rear frame 44 . The mounting part 23 can be configured as a movable or elastic clip for attaching the device 1 to the vent 30 as shown in FIG.

If volatile composition 12 is a liquid volatile composition, device 1 is sealably attached to reservoir 11 to prevent volatile composition 12 from being released until device 1 is actuated. A breakable, vapor-impermeable substrate 14 can be provided that covers the reservoir 11. The breakable vapor-impermeable substrate 14 is broken to release the volatile composition 12 by actuating a breaking mechanism 50 located adjacent the breakable vapor-impermeable substrate 14. I can do it. The breaking mechanism 50 includes a movable member 52 movably attached to an outer frame 53 by an elastic member 54 . Resilient member 54 may be formed of one or more springs. One or more breaking elements 56 are positioned within the breaking mechanism 50 to puncture the breakable vapor-impermeable substrate 14 . Breaking element 56 may be a pin. Membrane 13 can be sealably attached to a flange 57 located on the outer periphery 58 of container 10 . Membrane 13 encloses container 10, volatile composition 12, breakable vapor impermeable substrate 14, and breaking mechanism 50. Membrane 13 may be configured to flex when pressure or actuation force is applied to membrane 13 by mounting portion 23 .

5A and 5B show the device 1 of FIG. 4 in assembled form with a volatile composition 12, in a first position before activation (FIG. 5A) and in a second position after activation (FIG. 5B). A certain condition is indicated. Referring to FIG. 5A, to operate the device 1, a user rotates the mounting portion 23 relative to the housing 40 to break the membrane 13 and at least a portion of the breakage element 56 into a vapor impermeable substrate. A portion of the volatile composition 12 is released from the container 10 by perforating the breakable vapor-impermeable substrate by moving it toward the device 14. evaporate from. The mounting portion 23 may be linearly or rotationally moved to move the membrane 13 and at least a portion of the rupture element 56 toward the breakable vapor-impermeable substrate 14 to perforate the breakable vapor-impermeable substrate. It will be appreciated that it can be constructed using known mechanical methods for kinetic movement. When the rupturable vapor-impermeable substrate 14 is perforated, the volatile composition 12 flows out of the container 10 and wets the membrane 13, which is then supplied to the surrounding atmosphere by evaporation from the membrane 13. Membrane 13 is configured to prevent the liquid phase of volatile composition 12 from escaping from membrane 13, but to allow the vapor phase of volatile composition 12 to evaporate from second surface 22. The volatile composition 12 is supplied to the environment and into the space 32 in which the evaporator is located (as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C).

The following examples are intended to more fully explain the invention and do not limit it, since many variations thereof are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. should not be construed as such.

All parts, percentages, and ratios herein are expressed as weight percent unless otherwise specified.

First, the test equipment/materials and test volatile composition are described in "Materials", then the "Test Method" is presented, and finally the results are discussed. Figure 2 presents data demonstrating the volatile compositions of the present invention have improved mold control effects on evaporators of HVAC systems. The equipment and materials used in the "Test Method" described below are shown in Table 4 below. The formulations of the composition of the present invention and the comparative composition are shown in Table 5 below. Each composition is prepared using conventional methods.

material

Table 5 shows the eight volatile compositions to be evaluated. Compositions A, B, C, D, and E of the present invention are compositions of the present invention, and comparative compositions F, G, and H are compositions for comparison. Compositions A, B, C, D, E of the present invention are composed of C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals, such as (E)-2-hexene-1-al CAS number 6728-26- 3) and a C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal (eg 4-decen-1-al CAS number 65405-70-1).
^* Accord ingredients are not disclosed by the manufacturer.

Test method/calculation A. P&G Mold Sporicidal Efficiency Test Method for Evaporative Actives This test method is for evaluating the mold sporicidal efficiency of the compositions of the present invention and comparative compositions. The test method is carried out in a test chamber under the following test conditions: average temperature of 25° C. and average relative humidity of 70%. The process for conducting the test includes the following:
Step 1: (Test Surface Preparation Treatment) A spore suspension of Aspergillus brasiliensis is prepared with an average mold concentration of approximately 1×10 ⁶ cfu/ml.
Step 2: Pipette 0.01 ml of the spore suspension onto the surface of the glass slide to obtain a mold/surface concentration of approximately 1×10 ⁴ cfu/surface. Step 2 is carried out using three glass slides, a first glass slide containing the spore suspension (the "first glass slide"), a second glass slide containing the spore suspension (the "second glass slide"), and a second glass slide containing the spore suspension (the "second glass slide"). A third glass slide with a spore suspension (“third glass slide”) is obtained.
Step 3: Dry the spore suspension on the glass slide under ambient conditions until it is visibly dry.
Step 4: (Product Treatment) Each glass slide from Step 3 is placed in a test chamber with the composition of the invention or the comparative composition and incubated for an incubation period of 45 days at an incubation temperature of 25°C. The composition of the invention or the comparative composition is contained in a device of similar construction to device 1 of FIG. 3A.
Step 5: Open the test chamber for 30 minutes each day from Monday to Friday during the 45-day incubation period to simulate air exchange in an automobile air conditioning system.
Step 6: (Calculation of mold spores on test surfaces) At the end of time point 0 (no incubation), remove the first glass slide from the test chamber and place it in a stomacher bag containing 9 ml of modified Letheen broth (MLBT). Insert the first glass slide.
Step 7: Rub the surface of the first glass slide from above the stomacher bag to wash off mold spores on the surface of the first glass slide during MLBT.
Step 8: Spread 0.1 ml and 0.01 ml of the solution from step 7 respectively onto two separate MLAT plates and incubate in an incubator for an incubation period of 3 days at an incubation temperature of 25°C.
Step 9: Count the colonies on the MLAT plate at the end of the 3 days to obtain a mold count.
Step 10: (Calculation results) At the end of the period, calculate the mold sporicidal efficiency (%) of the composition of the present invention/comparison composition according to the method for calculating mold sporicidal efficiency described below.

Repeat steps 6-10 for the 7th and 45th day periods. The 7th day corresponds to a period of 7 days from the 0th day. The 45th day corresponds to a period of 45 days from the 0th day. Since the experiments of Examples I and II are performed on days 0, 7 and 45 according to the method described above, three slides are prepared. However, it will be appreciated that the number of slides can be varied depending on the number of time points desired in determining the mold disinfection efficiency of the volatile composition.

B. Method for calculating mold sporicidal efficiency Mold sporicidal efficiency is calculated as follows.
(i) obtaining mold counts (with inventive composition/comparison composition in place) for periods of day 0, day 7, and day 45;
(ii) Calculate the mold sporicidal efficiency according to equation (1) below.
Mold sporicidal efficiency = (Mold count on day 0 (number of spores/surface) - Mold on day X (number of spores/surface)) / Mold on day 0 (number of spores/surface) x 100 (1)
However, day 0 is the beginning of the period in which the inventive composition/comparison composition was placed.
Day X is the end of the period in which the inventive composition/comparison composition was placed.

C. In-car mold odor performance sensory test method (“SIM test method”)
This test method is for evaluating the effectiveness of the composition of the present invention in suppressing mold odor in automobiles. The test method was conducted over a nine week test period on five test cars with musty odors, Test Vehicles 1-5, and the results of mold odor intensity are described in Example III. Test vehicles were selected based on the presence of a musty odor as assessed by three highly trained human sensory examiners (“sensory examiners”), and the acceptance criteria for selecting test vehicles were as follows: Table 6 Based on a musty odor intensity of at least 30 according to the standards. The process for conducting the test includes the following:
Step 1: Before installing the automotive air freshener of the present invention, a sensory tester inspected each of test cars 1 to 5 for mold odor at three touch points (when entering the car, immediately after turning on the air conditioner, and after turning on the air conditioner for 3 minutes). Then, one automotive air freshener of the present invention is placed in each test vehicle 1-5.
Step 2: Each of test vehicles 1 to 5 is driven for a minimum of 1 to 2 hours at least 3 to 4 times a week during the first and second weeks of using the automotive air freshener of the present invention.
Step 3: Weekly sensory evaluations were conducted by sensory testers in test vehicles 1 to 5, and each sensory tester evaluated the air in each passenger compartment of the test vehicle for musty odor, on the scale shown in Table 6 below. Each test vehicle is evaluated for musty odor according to an intensity rating based on the odor grade using Prior to the 1st and 2nd week sensory evaluations, the automotive air freshener of the present invention was removed from each air conditioner vent of test vehicles 1 to 5 to determine whether it would affect the evaluation of mold odor at touch points 2 and 3. Minimize possible masking effects of fragrances. For the first and second week sensory evaluations at touch point 1, the automotive air freshener of the present invention remains attached to the air conditioner vent, but the air conditioner vent is turned off. The evaluation will be conducted at the following four touch points.
Touch point 1: When entering the car Touch point 2: Immediately after turning on the air conditioning (A/C) without the automotive air freshener of the present invention Touch point 3: Automotive air freshener of the present invention 3 minutes after turning on the air conditioner without touch point 4: Attach the automotive air freshener of the present invention to the air conditioner vent and turn on the air conditioner.
Step 4: After the second week of sensory evaluation, the automotive air freshener of the present invention was removed from each test vehicle 1 to 5.
Step 5: From the 3rd week to the 9th week, test vehicles 1 to 5 are then driven without the automotive air freshener of the present invention for a minimum of 1 to 2 hours, at least 3 to 4 times a week.
Step 6: In the third and fourth weeks, weekly sensory evaluations were conducted by sensory testers in test vehicles 1 to 5, and each sensory tester evaluated the air in each passenger compartment of the test vehicle for mold odor. Each test vehicle is then evaluated for musty odor according to the odor grade-based strength evaluation using the scale shown in Table 6 below. Evaluation is performed at touch points 1, 2, and 3 mentioned in step 3.
Step 7: After 4 weeks and up to the 9th week, test vehicles 1-5 are driven without the automotive air freshener of the present invention for a minimum of 1-2 hours, at least 3-4 times a week. Sensory evaluation by a sensory tester is not performed from the 5th week to the 8th week.
Step 8: At the 9th week (7 weeks after removing the automotive air freshener of the present invention from each test vehicle 1 to 5), a sensory tester conducted a sensory evaluation on test vehicles 1 to 5, and each sensory tester , the air in each passenger compartment of the test vehicle is evaluated for musty odor, and each test vehicle is evaluated for musty odor according to the intensity rating based on odor grade using the scale shown in Table 6 below. Evaluation is performed at touch points 1, 2, and 3 mentioned in step 3.

(Example I)
Compositions A, B, C of the invention and the comparative compositions of Table 5 are evaluated according to the test method for mold sporicidal efficiency described herein above in "Test Methods".

Tables 7 and 8 below show the results of the mold sporicidal efficiency of compositions A, B, C of the present invention and comparative compositions F, G, H, measured at 7 days, and show the results of mold sporicidal efficiency of compositions A, B, C of the present invention and comparative compositions F, G, H, and the non-spore killing efficiency of C5 to C8. Branched unsubstituted linear alkenals (e.g. (E)-2-hexen-1-al) and C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals (e.g. 4-decen-1-al) The composition of the present invention having a mixture of a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal does not contain a comparative composition. It has been shown to have higher mold sporicidal efficiency compared to the above.

In particular, compositions A and B of the invention contain C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals, such as (E)-2-hexene-1, in an amount of 0.25% to 1%. Comparative composition E( 40%) at the end of 7 days.

Table 8 below shows that 1.5% by weight of the composition of a mixture of a C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal; 4-dimethylcyclohex-3-ene-1-carbaldehyde, 3,7dimethyloct-1,6-dien-3-ol, 3,7-dimethyloct-2,6-dienal, (2E)-3, Compound C of the invention having 10.1% of a specific perfume raw material group containing 7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-ol, and a C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and Figure 2 shows the mold sporicidal efficiency results of comparative compositions G and H that do not contain C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals. Comparative composition F has the same amounts of the specified perfume ingredients as composition C of the invention. Comparative composition H has increased amounts of specific perfume raw material groups.

Overall, the above results demonstrate that volatile compositions containing low concentrations of C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals and C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals -Has a higher mold sporicidal efficiency compared to a comparative volatile composition that does not contain a C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal. This shows that. Furthermore, the results in Table 5 (compositions of the invention relative to comparative compositions G) show that the volatile compositions of the invention have a higher 68%), giving an average mold spore sporicidal efficiency of greater than 99%. Furthermore, the results for Comparative Composition H indicate that even though the amount of the particular perfume ingredient group was increased by about 4.5% by weight of the composition (i.e., 44% of the initial amount), Comparative Composition H It has been shown to yield a lower average mold sporicidal efficiency of 80%.

Higher mold sporicidal efficiency with lower concentrations of C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals and C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenals compared to other specific fragrance ingredients , there is further scope for inclusion of other optional ingredients to provide further benefits to the consumer, including but not limited to odor blocking to further improve the delivery of freshness to the consumer. It means to exist. Having a higher mold sporicidal efficiency also results in a reduction in mold odor intensity in automobiles as demonstrated in Example II, described below.

(Example II)
Composition E of the invention in Table 5 is evaluated according to the test method for mold sporicidal efficiency described herein above under "Test Methods". The results in Table 9 below show that the mold sporicidal efficiency of the compositions of the invention at the end of the 7 day period is at least 99%. A mold sporicidal efficiency of at least 99% was maintained at the end of 45 days, demonstrating the durability of the mold inhibiting effect of the compositions of the present invention. The following results show that the composition of the present invention comprising a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal acting in sequence: This shows that the mold odor prevention effect is immediate on the 7th day, and the overall mold odor prevention effect is maintained for a period of 45 days or more.

The compositions of the invention contain at least 0.2% by weight of the volatile composition of a C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal and at least 0.2% by weight of a C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted alkenal. It will be appreciated that any form that functions as an air freshener may be adapted, including volatile compositions having linear alkenals. Such volatile compositions are preferably applied at the end of a period of 1 to 45 days, preferably at the end of a 2 day period, more preferably at the end of a 7 day period, even more preferably at the end of a 45 day period. Sometimes it has a mold sporicidal efficiency of at least 90%, preferably 95%, more preferably 99%, where the mold sporicidal efficiency is determined according to the mold sporicidal efficiency test method defined herein.

(Example III)
The automotive air freshener of the invention comprising Composition D of the invention of Table 2 is evaluated according to the SIM test method described hereinabove under "Test Methods". Table 10 below shows the average odor grades given by the panelists based on the odor grades (shown in Table 6) when the automotive air freshener of the present invention is placed in a test vehicle and driven by a consumer. Indicates mold odor intensity value.

The above results at the end of weeks 1, 2, 3, 4 and 9 show that the use of the automotive air freshener of the present invention in a car, over a period of 9 weeks and at the end thereof, is based on Table 6. According to the odor grade, it is shown to result in an average musty odor intensity value of less than 20 within the interior occupied space of a motor vehicle. Specifically, these results show that the average musty odor intensity values are significantly reduced at all touchpoints, as explained below.

At week 0, the average musty odor intensity value of the internally occupied space is 32. After using the automotive air freshener of the present invention for the first week, the average mold intensity value (week 0) is up to the average mold odor intensity value of 17 at the end of the first week, i.e. the mold odor intensity value It has decreased by about 47% to less than 20 (that is, according to Table 6, it is perceived as a slight odor, "I feel some odor, but I cannot identify the specific odor").

Furthermore, from week 1 to week 4, the average musty odor intensity decreased continuously at all touch points. Specifically, in the second week, the average musty odor intensity in the internally occupied space was 12, indicating a 63% decrease in the average musty odor intensity compared to the zero week; The average mold odor intensity in the internally occupied space was 9, indicating a 72% decrease in the average mold odor intensity compared to week 0. The lowest average musty odor intensity value of 3 and the highest musty odor intensity reduction rate of 91% are observed at week 4 (ie, 2 weeks after removing the automotive air freshener of the present invention). Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is possible that the musty odor is due to the odor of the ingredients present in the composition of the present invention which masks the musty odor when the automotive air freshener of the present invention is removed. This shows that the composition of the present invention evaporates and is removed by the effect of the composition of the present invention in contact with the mold on the evaporator of the automobile. Furthermore, at week 9, the average musty odor intensity within the internally occupied space was greater than the musty odor intensity value of 10 (i.e., perceived as a very slight odor that "I think it smells" according to Table 6). Low 8, which is a 75% reduction in average musty odor intensity relative to week 0.

Although the above results were demonstrated by the composition of the present invention placed in the automotive air freshener of the present invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the same or similar technical effects and reduction in mold odor intensity It will be appreciated that the results obtained by the compositions of the present invention alone are provided in the form of a gel or the like that can be attached to a vent using conventional attachment means such as clips, strings, etc. . The overall results show that the compositions of the present invention exhibited a reduction in average musty odor intensity of 40% to 95% at the end of the 9 week period, based on the average musty odor intensity values determined according to the SIM test method. , preferably a reduction in average mold odor intensity of 40% to 60% at the end of a one week period, more preferably a reduction in average mold odor intensity of 60% to 70% at the end of a two week period, and even more. Preferably, an average musty odor intensity reduction of 70% to 80% at the end of a 3 week period, even more preferably an average musty odor intensity reduction of 90% to 99% at the end of a 4 week period. More preferably, it has been shown to have a reduction in average musty odor intensity of 70% to 99% at the end of 9 weeks. However, the compositions of the present invention also provide 5% to 99%, preferably 50% to 90%, more preferably 70% over a period of 9 weeks, based on the average musty odor intensity value determined according to the SIM test method. % to 90% reduction in average musty odor intensity.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the precise numerical values recited. Instead, unless indicated otherwise, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

All documents cited in this application, including all cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent applications or patents to which this application claims priority or benefit, are not intended to be excluded or qualified. Unless otherwise stated, this application is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Citation of any document, alone or in combination with any other reference(s), shall not be construed as prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein. It may not be deemed to teach, suggest or disclose all such inventions. Further, if any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with the meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall control. shall be

Although particular embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, 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. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that come within the scope of this invention.

Claims (14)

A device for suppressing mold odors in an internally occupied space, the device being connectable to an attachment part for removably attaching the device to a vent in the internally occupying space, the device being capable of suppressing mold odor in an internally occupied space ; a reservoir containing a volatile composition and a supply member configured to evaporate a liquid phase of the volatile composition , the volatile composition comprising: (i) at least 0.0% of the volatile composition; 2% by weight of a C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal;
(ii) at least 0.2% by weight of a C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal;
The device, wherein the C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal has one double bond at the C3, C4 or C5 position. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the C9-C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal has one double bond at the C4 position. 3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal contains one double bond. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal constitutes from 0.2% to 10% by weight of the volatile composition. . Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal constitutes from 0.2% to 10% by weight of the volatile composition. . The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is a C9 to C12 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the C5-C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is a C5-C7 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal. The C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is 3-nonen-1-al, 4-nonen-1-al, 5-nonen-1-al, 3-decen-1-al, 4 -Decene-1-al, 5-decen-1-al, 3-undecen-1-al, 4-undecen-1-al, 5-undecen-1-al, 3-dodecen-1-al, 4-dodecene -1-al, 5-dodecen-1-al, 3-tridecen-1-al, 4-tridecen-1-al, 3-tetradecen-1-al, 4-tetradecen-1-al, 5-tetradecen-1 -R, and mixtures thereof. The C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is 2-penten-1-al, 3-penten-1-al, 4-penten-1-al, (E)-2-hexene-1 -R, (Z)-2-hexen-1-al, 3-hexen-1-al, 4-hexen-1-al, 2-hepten-1-al, 3-hepten-1-al, 4-heptene -1-al, 2-octen-1-al, 3-octen-1-al, 4- octen-1-al, and mixtures thereof. The device according to item 1. 1. The weight ratio of the C5 to C8 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal to the C9 to C14 unbranched unsubstituted linear alkenal is 5:1 to 1:5. - The device according to any one of items 6, 8 and 9 . Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10 , wherein the supply member is a membrane of semi-permeable material . A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is connected to the mounting part. A method for suppressing mold odor in an internally occupied space, the method comprising:
A method comprising the steps of: connecting a device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 to a mounting part; and attaching said mounting part to a vent. 1. A method of demonstrating the effectiveness of a volatile composition for reducing mold odors, the method comprising:
connecting a device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 to a fitted part; and attaching the fitted part to a vent, wherein the volatile composition is determined according to the SIM test method. A method in which the average musty odor intensity value obtained is 20 or less.