KR20100042291A - Compositions for treating fabric - Google Patents

Abstract

Compositions for treating fabric. The compositions of the present invention may be used to improve various properties of fabrics such as the olfactory perception and/or appearance of the fabric without requiring that the fabrics be put through an entire standard laundry process. Methods of treating the fabrics are also disclosed.

Description

Composition for textile processing {COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING FABRIC}

The present invention is suitable for wearing fabric care compositions and corrugated fabrics without the need to recover or improve olfactory perception through various properties of the fabric, in particular odor reduction or freshening, and / or undergo a standard washing process. To a fabric, in particular a method of treating the fabric to improve appearance recovery through wrinkle removal in garments.

Routine wear, and in some cases the process of washing and storing fabrics, especially garments, can lead to fabrics that are no longer tacky or satisfactory for the owner to wear, especially in terms of olfactory and visual aspects. As a result, the fabric is not clean / no smelly and / or not visually attractive in terms of wrinkles or static electricity, in order to restore the fabric to a wearable state without having to go through a standard time-consuming washing process using a washing machine and a dryer. For a long time there has been a need to find a "refresher" product that is simple and easy to use, especially for the purpose of processing apparel articles.

Various compositions are described in the art as wrinkle control compositions. Commercially available wrinkle control compositions include those that tend to rely on silicone-containing materials that can enable wrinkle removal. Such commercial compositions include those applied to fabrics from a spray dispenser.

A disadvantage of this composition is that the composition does not sufficiently contain the water soluble quaternary surfactant microemulsions found by the applicant to be useful for providing good wrinkle removal and appearance restoration of worn or wrinkled fabrics.

The present invention is stable, preferably well dispersed, more preferably transparent, even more preferably a clean quaternary microemulsion fabric refreshing composition, fabric refreshing method, and articles of manufacture using such fabric refreshing compositions. manufacture). The present invention relates to a textile refresher product comprising a water soluble quaternary ammonium compound (“water soluble quat”). It has been surprisingly found that mixtures of water, water soluble quarts and substantially water insoluble oil mixes can form microemulsions that provide the desired benefits of reducing wrinkles, odors and static electricity.

Fabric refreshing compositions of the present invention include:

A. Water added as balance of the components listed below. Typically water may be added at a level of about 30% to about 99.9%.

B. Typical minimum levels of water soluble quaternary agents included in the composition are at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, more preferably at least about 0.1%, and typical maximum levels of water soluble quaternary agents are up to about 20 Water-soluble quaternary ammonium surfactant in the range of%, preferably less than about 10%, and more preferably less than about 3% and generally from about 0.2% to about 1.0%.

C. A substantially water insoluble oil component or oil mix in which the oil component may have more than one clogP. Typically the minimum level of oil component included in the composition is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.005%, and even more preferably at least about 0.01%, and the typical maximum level of oil component is at most about 5.0%, preferably Preferably less than about 3%, more preferably less than 1.5%, and generally in the range of about 0.05% to about 1%.

D. Optionally, an effective amount of nonionic surfactant can be added to enhance the desired physical properties. Typically, the minimum level of nonionic surfactant in use is at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, and more preferably at least about 0.1%, in which case a typical maximum level of nonionic surfactant is at most about 5 %, Preferably about 3% or less, and more preferably about 1.5% or less.

E. Optionally, a buffer may be added in an amount effective to increase the resistance of the pH change of the composition, in which case at least about 0.01% of the buffer is used, preferably at least about 0.05% is added, more preferably Preferably at least about 0.1% is added, and typical maximum levels of buffer are at most about 3%, preferably less than about 1.5%, and more preferably less than about 0.5%.

F. Optionally, an odor control agent may be used in an amount effective to provide additional odor trapping / isolation effects, in which case the odor control agent, when used, is about 0.01%, preferably about 0.1% And, more preferably, in a minimum amount of at least about 0.2% and a typical maximum level of odor control agent is at most about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, and more preferably less than about 2%.

G. Optionally, an effective amount of an antimicrobial agent may be used to kill the microorganisms and reduce the growth of the microorganisms, in which the antimicrobial agent, when used, is typically at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.002%, and more preferably Preferably in a minimum amount of at least about 0.005% and typical maximum levels of antimicrobial agent are at most about 0.5%, preferably less than about 0.2%, and more preferably less than about 0.1%.

H. Optionally, an effective amount of pH adjuster that can be used to achieve a pH of about 3 to about 11, preferably about 4 to about 10, and more preferably about 5 to about 9.

I. Optionally, an effective amount of solubilized water soluble antimicrobial preservative, particularly when the antimicrobial active agent is not sufficient to act as a preservative. Typically, the minimum amount of these antimicrobial preservatives in use is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.002%, and more preferably at least about 0.005%, and the typical maximum amount in use is at most about 0.5%, preferably about 0.2% Less than about 0.1%, and more preferably less than about 0.1%.

J. Optionally, a typical minimum amount of at least about 0.05%, preferably at least about 0.1%, and more preferably at least about 0.2% and a typical maximum amount of at most about 8%, preferably less than about 5%, and More preferably less than about 3% other water soluble solvents.

In this case, it is preferred that the composition is essentially free of any material that can damage the fabric under the conditions of use.

In one non-limiting embodiment, the fabric refresher compositions described herein are fabricated using a refresher composition at a level that is effective but not easily discerned when dried on the fabric, except for color fade restoration. And / or into a spray dispenser to produce an article of manufacture that can facilitate the treatment of the surface. The spray dispenser includes a container containing manually operated and non-manually powered (actuated) spray means and fabric refresher composition. In one embodiment of the fabric refresher composition described herein, an inert, nonvolatile gas is used as a propulsion agent in an aerosol dispenser can.

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

The present invention relates to a composition for treating a fabric. The invention also relates to a process for preparing the composition of the invention. The invention further relates to articles comprising the compositions of the invention and methods of using the compositions of the invention. Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention. All percentages, ratios, and ratios herein are by weight unless otherwise indicated. Except where noted otherwise, all amounts, including amounts, percentages, parts, and ratios, are understood to be modified by the word “about”, and the amounts are not intended to represent significant figures. Except where noted, singular nouns means “one or more”.

As used herein, "comprising" means that other steps and other ingredients may be added that do not affect the final result. This term includes the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of". The compositions and methods / processes of the invention include, or include, the essential elements and limitations of the invention described herein, and any additional or optional ingredients, components, steps, or limitations described herein. It may consist of or consist essentially of these.

It is to be understood that all maximum numerical limits given throughout this specification include these lower limit values as if all lower limit values were explicitly described herein. All minimum threshold values given throughout this specification will include these higher threshold values as if all larger threshold values were expressly described herein. All numerical ranges given throughout this specification will include all narrower numerical ranges that fall within such broader numerical ranges as if all narrower numerical ranges are all expressly described herein.

Also included herein are quantitative methods for indicating the prevention of static on fabrics with such compositions. Static or static electricity is an imbalance of charge on the surface of the fabric. This is typically caused by "tribocharging" in which electrons are exchanged by the fabric material when the fabric material is in contact and then separated, leaving a positive charge on either one and a negative charge on the other. Friction between the two surfaces can enhance this charge separation process and the material further separated on the "triboelectric series" tends to transfer electrons more effectively.

It was found 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 with or without contact with live AC wires. The device is designed to remain stationary near an alternating electric field. For example, a common use is to place a probe of this device into an AC power outlet to indicate the presence of an AC voltage. The device remains stationary, which senses the alternating voltage and typically indicates the presence of the voltage as sound or light. It has been found that by moving the device over the surface of the fabric it is possible and very effective for the non-contact AC voltage detector to indicate the presence of static on the fabric. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a device moving over an uneven electrostatic field present on a fabric simulates an alternating electric field of AC line voltage. Typically, the device travels over a fabric at a speed of about 30.5 cm / sec (1 ft / sec) at a distance of less than about 12 inches. The presence of static on the fabric is manifested by the meter in the normal way. Without static on the fabric, the meter will indicate that no voltage is present. A preferred example of such a technique uses a GREENLEE G-11 contactless voltage detector supplied by Greenlee Textron of Rockford, Ill., USA. The composition described in the present invention can not only prevent build up of static electricity but also eliminate existing static electricity present on the fabric.

Fabric Refreshing:

As discussed above, the present invention relates to a method and composition for fabric refreshing that is at least used in an amount effective to recover a neaky, malodorous and / or corrugated fabric.

Microemulsions are macroscopically homogeneous mixtures of oil, water and surfactants composed of separate domains of water and oil separated by a single layer of amphiphile at the microscopic level. As used herein, "amphoteric material" refers to a compound that possesses both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. Microemulsions have been used for oil recovery, and microemulsions comprising anionic surfactants and some small nonionic alcohols have been widely evaluated. There are a number of ways to describe microemulsions, the more common features of which describe 1) appearance, i.e. transparent to slightly opaque visual appearance, 2) complex phase behavior, 3) mixing and forming to produce a stable solution. Ease of use, 4) small particle size and large interfacial area per unit volume, 5) solubilizing capacity of organic and aqueous phases, and 6) good wetting properties.

However, the focus of the present invention is to use quaternary ammonium surfactant based microemulsions from the fabric point of view for wrinkle removal, odor control or static reduction. Important physical properties used to dimension these quaternary ammonium surfactant based microemulsions on fabrics are particle size and fabric wetting power, and transparent products are favored aesthetically. These textile treated microemulsion compositions are preferably small in oil-in-water particle size to facilitate penetration into textile fibers and provide suitable stability. In addition, the small particle size may provide some level of homogeneity and / or clarity for aesthetic purposes. As used herein, the terms “homogeneous” and “stable” refer to a composition that is described as visually uniform in appearance for 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. For the present invention, typical oil droplet particle sizes can range from about 1 nm to about 300 nm.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the specific surfactant and oil components and their molar ratios can be determining factors in the production of microemulsions. Factors contributing to achieving a suitable particle size are the solubility parameters of the components, the molecular size and molecular shape of these components.

In addition, without wishing to be bound by theory, the highly effective wetting properties of the microemulsions of the compositions of the present invention help the compositions penetrate into fabrics, especially cotton, in a quick and complete manner, which means that the capillary and It is thought to be due to the more complete wetting of the pores and thereby access to more internal hydrogen bonds in the cellulose structure. Breaking hydrogen bonds to help keep wrinkles in place is important for wrinkle removal. In addition, rapid penetration of the fabric structure helps to facilitate better wrinkle removal in cooperation with elongation, especially when tensioning is applied immediately after the composition is applied to the fabric. This rapid release provides positive reinforcement for consumers who can exert stretch by pulling or pulling the fabric immediately after the composition is applied. In a similar manner, rapid wetting and spreading of the composition provides better coverage on the fabric and improves the efficiency of malodor reduction by better contact with malodor causing components that will neutralize or form a composite. Effective wetting and coverage on the fabric further facilitates the distribution of quaternary surfactants on the fabric surface, while preventing static buildup on the fabric surface, especially in dry or low humidity environments.

Wetness index can be used to describe the wetting behavior of a given treatment composition. Of particular importance is the ability to wet cotton garments. Wetness index is a test that measures the wetting ratio of the product composition to various fabrics. This test involves dropping a drop of test product (water is the control product) onto the fabric sample and time how long it takes for the drop of product composition to fully penetrate the fabric surface. The wetness index is defined as the time in seconds the water control takes to fully penetrate the surface divided by the time taken for the test product composition. Larger wetting index values can be understood to indicate better wetting and indicate how many times faster the product composition wets the fabric than water. The wetness index of cotton is preferably at least 2, more preferably greater than 5, and most preferably greater than 9.

Another aspect of the invention is an improvement in moisture management that can be achieved by pretreating the fabric with a composition and drying it. In this case, moisture management means the ability to wick water better into the treated fabric as compared to the untreated fabric. This improved wicking ability is the ability to move water / sweat away from the skin and into fabrics / clothes that are in direct contact with the skin to promote 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 (“clogP”) greater than one. The P value is a measure of the octanol / water partition coefficient of the material of interest and is the ratio between the equilibrium concentration in octanol and the equilibrium concentration in water. Since the partition coefficients of the preferred components of the present invention have high values, they are more conveniently provided in the form of logP, logP with a base of 10, which is known as the logP value. These values can be conveniently calculated to provide clogP values. The clogP values of many perfume ingredients have been reported: For example, Pomona 92 available from Daylight Chemical Information Systems, Inc. (Daylight CIS), Irvine, CA, USA. The database contains many clogP values with reference to the original literature. However, the clogP value can also be calculated by the "CLOGP" program available from Daylight CIS. The "clogP value" is typically determined by Hansch and Leo's fragment approach (A. Leo, in Comprehensive Medicinal Chemistry, Vol. 4, C. Hansch, PG Sammens, JB). Taylor and CA Ramsden, Eds., P. 295, Pergamon Press, 1990).

Another source for calculating logP values is through the Log P characteristic predictor (CSLogP) supplied by Chemsilo LLC, Tewicksbury, 01816, Massachusetts.

A. Composition

Water soluble quaternary ammonium surfactants:

Typically, the minimum level of water soluble quart included in the composition of the present invention is at least about 0.01% by weight, preferably at least about 0.05% by weight, more preferably at least about 0.1% by weight, even more based on the total weight of the composition Preferably at least about 0.2% by weight. Typically, the maximum level of water soluble quaternary agent included in the composition is up to about 20%, preferably less than about 10%, and more preferably less than about 3%, based on the total weight of the composition. Typically, the agent is present in the composition in an amount of about 0.2% to about 1.0%.

Specifically, preferred water soluble quaternary compounds are dialkyl quaternary surfactant compounds. Suitable quaternary surfactants include, but are not limited to, quaternary ammonium surfactants having the formula:

Wherein R 1 and R 2 are individually selected from the group consisting of C 1 -C 4 alkyl, C 1 -C 4 hydroxy alkyl, benzyl, and — (C 2 H 4 O) × H, where x has a value of about 2 to about 5; X is an anion; (1) R3 and R4 are each C6-C14 alkyl or (2) R3 is C6-C18 alkyl, and R4 is C1-C10 alkyl, C1-C10 hydroxy alkyl, benzyl, and-(C2H4O) xH (where x has a value from 2 to 5). Preferred asymmetric quaternary compounds for the present invention are compounds in which R3 and R4 are not identical and preferably one is branched and the other is linear.

Examples of preferred asymmetric quaternary compounds include X being a methyl sulfate ion, R1 and R2 being methyl groups, R3 being a tallow group having a mono unsaturation of less than 5%, and R4 being 2 ARQUAD HTL8-MS is an ethylhexyl group. Arquad HTL8-MS is available from Akzo Nobel Chemical, Arnham, The Netherlands.

Examples of suitable symmetric quaternary compounds are UNIQUAT 22c50 where X is a carbonate and bicarbonate, R1 and R2 are methyl groups, and R3 and R4 are C10 alkyl groups. Uniquat 22c50 is a registered trade name Lonza and is available from Lonza Incorporated of Allendale, NJ, in North America.

Another example of a suitable water soluble quaternary compound is BARQUAT CME-35, an N-cetyl ethyl morpholinium etosulphate available from Lonza and having the following structure:

Oil Ingredients:

The oil component of the present invention represents a substantially water insoluble material incorporated into the composition by microemulsion. Typically, the minimum level of oil component included in the composition is at least about 0.001%, preferably at least about 0.005%, more preferably at least about 0.01%; Typically, the maximum moisture of the oil component is at most about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, more preferably less than 1.5%, and typical levels range from about 0.05% to about 1%. The oil component may be a single component, but is typically a mixture and usually indicates the inclusion of some effect agent into the composition. Typically the oil component is a fragrance made from a mixture of components, but can also be a non-fragrance material such as substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbons. In the case of spray products, it is preferred that the oil component or mix is liquid at room temperature for ease of incorporation into the composition and that there is less likelihood of nozzle clogging upon drying.

The oil component of the present invention is substantially water insoluble and forms a microemulsion. Substantially water insoluble means that the clogP of the components is greater than about 1. A clogP of about 1 indicates that the components tend to partition into octanol about 10 times more than water. Some preferred but non-limiting components in the oil mixture are branched hydrocarbons and perfumes (when perfumes are used).

Spices:

The fabric refresher compositions described herein can also provide a "scent signal" in the form of a refreshing odor that gives a fresh impression to the treated fabric. The fragrance signal can be designed to provide a perfume scent that lasts for a short time or longer. When the perfume is added as a fragrance signal, it is added only at very low levels, such as from about 0.001% to about 0.01% by weight of the amount of the composition used.

Perfume can also be added as a stronger odor in the product and on the fabric. When higher levels of fabric freshness are desired, relatively higher levels of fragrance may be added. This level can be at least about 0.005%, preferably at least about 0.01%, more preferably at least about 0.1%, and typically the maximum level is at most about 5%, preferably less than about 3%, and more preferably May be less than about 1%.

Suitable flavorings, flavoring ingredients, and flavoring carriers are described in US Pat. Nos. 5,500,138 to Bacon et al., March 19, 1996, and US patents published in the name of Demeyere et al., March 21, 2002. Published application application 2002 / 0035053A1.

Any type of fragrance can be included in the compositions of the present invention. Preferred perfume ingredients are those suitable for use in the application on fabrics and garments. Typical examples of such preferred ingredients are provided in US Pat. No. 5,445,747 to Kvietok et al. On August 29, 1995.

When a long-lasting fragrance odor is required on the fabric, it is desirable to use at least an effective amount of perfume component having a boiling point of at least about 240 ° C. and preferably at least about 250 ° C. Non-limiting examples of such preferred ingredients are provided in US Pat. No. 5,500,138, issued March 19, 1996, to Bacon et al. It is also desirable to use materials capable of slowly releasing the perfume component 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 to Severns et al. On July 2, 1996.

Other perfume ingredients can act as the solvent. In some cases, this may help to facilitate the inclusion of other flavoring or oil components into the overall composition. A particularly good example here is benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol has been shown to help include other flavor component mixes into these compositions with limited water solubility (clogP of about 1.2).

Branched hydrocarbons:

An effective amount of hydrocarbon is used with sufficient branching to provide a stable, preferably well dispersed, more preferably transparent, even more preferably clean, highly aqueous microemulsion wrinkle reduction composition. The hydrocarbon component may be saturated or unsaturated, and preferably has a certain carbon content and structure to be liquid at room temperature, unlike being volatile or solid.

One non-limiting example of a suitable branched hydrocarbon is ISOPAR V available from ExxonMobile Incorporated, Irving, Texas. Another suitable branched hydrocarbon is PERMETHYL 102A, available through Presperse Incorporated, Somerrest, NJ.

Branched hydrocarbons, together with water soluble quaternary surfactants and preferably flavoring components, are preferably used at levels suitable to produce a clean, stable microemulsion mixture. Branched hydrocarbons can be premixed with or with the fragrance component and incorporated into a refresher spray.

Other optional but preferred components that may optionally be used in the present invention include nonionic surfactants, buffers, odor control agents, perfume microcapsules, cyclodextrins, low molecular weight polyols, metal salts, antibacterial and preservatives, pH adjusters as well as other optional ingredients. Also included.

Nonionic  Surfactants:

Examples of optional but preferred nonionic surfactants are SURFYNOL 465, Surfinol 104 (2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-dekin-4,7-diol) and mixtures of the two. Preferred mixtures are those wherein Servinol 465 versus Sufinol 104 is 3: 1. Surfinol surfactants are available from Air Products and Chemicals, Incorporated, Allentown, Pennsylvania.

Another preferred nonionic class of surfactants is alkyl polyglycoside surfactants. Examples of such surfactants are GLUCOPON 215, PLATAREN 2000 N UP and Clocophone 425. These surfactants are available through Cognis Oleochemicals, Selangor, Malaysia. These surfactants are particularly useful when they aim to deviate from the neutral (pH 7) pH of the composition because they are stable over a wide range of pH.

Another nonionic surfactant group that can be used when the product pH is at or near 7 is SILWET silicone polyether. Non-limiting examples of these silicone polyethers are silwet® materials available from GE Silicones. Representative Sylwet® silicone polyethers containing only ethyleneoxy (C ₂ H ₄ O) groups are as follows:

Non-limiting examples of silwet® silicone polyethers having both ethyleneoxy (C ₂ H ₄ O) groups and propyleneoxy (C ₃ H ₆ O) groups are as follows:

Non-limiting examples of silwet® silicone polyethers containing only propyleneoxy (C ₃ H ₆ O) groups are as follows:

Preferred SILWETS® aids in color recovery when included in the composition in sufficient concentrations, and can also provide particularly desirable softness when the silicone polymer leaves a rough touch on the surface of the fabric. have. Non-limiting examples of preferred Sylwetz® include L77, L7001, L7200, L7087 and especially L-7600.

Some non-limiting preferred Dow Corning® silicone polyethers include Dow Corning® DC Q2-5247, (dimethyl, methylhydroxypropyl, ethoxylated propoxylated siloxane, primarily [CAS # 68937-55-3] consisting 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, FF400 fluid, Q2-5220, Q4-3667, PP 5495 as well as SH3771C, SH3772C , SH3773C, SH3746, SH3748, SH3749, SH8400, SF8410 as well as compounds available from Toray Dow Corning Silicone Co., Ltd., also known as SH8700, and Shin-Etsu Chemical Company Limited (Shin-Etsu Chemical Limited) Chemical Co., Ltd.), KF351 (A), KF352 (A), KF354 (A) and KF615 (A), TSF4440, TSF4445, TSF4446, TSF4452 from Toshiba Silicone Company. Another non-limiting example is Wacker's SLM 21200 from Germany.

Some silicone polyethers (particularly in more hydrophobic versions) may require additional emulsifiers to produce stable spray compositions. Such emulsifiers are typically anionic, nonionic, cationic, amphoteric, or zwitterionic surfactants or mixtures thereof. Typically, emulsifiers and surfactants can also act as spreading agents on fabrics to spread active ingredients such as silicone polymers.

Typically, the minimum level of nonionic surfactant is at least about 0.01%, preferably at least about 0.05%, more preferably at least about 0.1%, and the typical maximum level of nonionic surfactant is at most about 5%, preferably Is less than about 3% and more preferably less than about 1.5%.

Optional buffer:

Buffers can be included within the invention to assist in adjusting the pH of the product during manufacture and use. If the product is prepared at alkaline pH and sprayed during use, a buffer in the preferred alkaline pH range can help prevent the pH decrease due to mixing with carbon dioxide from air during spraying. Maintaining the pH at the target may also help to neutralize dirt or odors on the fabric. Any suitable buffer (organic or inorganic) can be used for the desired product pH, provided that the mixture has the appropriate stability at the level used. Preferred alkaline buffers include, but are not limited to, triethanolamine, glycine, arginine, carbonate salts, bicarbonate salts such as sodium bicarbonate and the like.

Selective Odor Controls:

Optionally, an effective amount of malodor control agent can be used to provide additional malodor capture / isolation effects, if desired.

US Pat. No. 5,534,165 for malodor control compositions; 5,578,563; 5,578,563; 5,663,134; 5,663,134; 5,668,097; 5,670,475; 5,670,475; And 5,714,137.

Fragrance Microcapsules:

In one embodiment, the fragrance comprises fragrance microcapsules. Suitable perfume microcapsules and perfume nanocapsules include US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/215417 A1; 2003/216488 A1; US2003 / 158344 A1; 2003/165692 A1; 2004/071742 A1; US 2004/071746 A1; US 2004/072719 A1; US 2004/072720 A1; 2003/203829 A1; 2003/195133 A1; 2004/087477 A1; Included are those disclosed in 2004/0106536 A1. See also US Pat. No. 6,645,479; No. 6,200,949; 4,882,220; 4,882,220; 4,917,920; 4,917,920; 4,514,461; Reissued patent number RE 32713; 4,234,627; 4,234,627; And those disclosed in European Patent No. 1,393,706 A1. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "fragrance microcapsules" describes both perfume microcapsules and perfume nanocapsules. In another embodiment, the fragrance comprises fragrance microcapsules and unencapsulated fragrances as described above.

Cyclodextrin :

As used herein, the term "cyclodextrin" refers to an unsubstituted cyclodextrin, in particular alpha-cyclodextrin, beta-cyclodextrin, gamma-cyclodextrin, and / or derivatives thereof, comprising 6 to 12 glucose units. And / or any known cyclodextrins, such as mixtures thereof. Alpha-cyclodextrin consists of six glucose units, beta-cyclodextrin consists of seven glucose units, and gamma-cyclodextrin consists of eight glucose units arranged in a donut-shaped ring. Specific coupling and conformation of glucose units gives the cyclodextrin a rigid, conical molecular structure with a hollow interior of a specific volume. The unique shape and physico-chemical properties of the cavity allow the cyclodextrin molecule to absorb (form a capture complex with these molecules) an organic molecule or a portion of the molecule that may fit within the cavity. Many odorous molecules can fit into the cavity, including many malodorous molecules and perfume molecules. Thus, cyclodextrins, and especially mixtures of cyclodextrins having cavities of various sizes, can be used to control the odor caused by a wide range of organic odor generating materials, which may include reactive functional groups. Complex formation between cyclodextrin and odor generating molecules occurs rapidly in the presence of water. However, the degree of complex formation also depends on the polarity of the absorbed molecules. In aqueous solutions, strong hydrophilic molecules (those that are highly water soluble) are only partially absorbed, even if absorbed. Thus, cyclodextrins do not effectively complex with some very low molecular weight organic amines and acids present at low levels on wet fabrics. However, as water is removed, such as when the fabric is dried, some low molecular weight organic amines and acids will have a higher affinity and more readily form complexes with cyclodextrins.

In the solution compositions described herein, the cavities in the cyclodextrins must remain essentially unfilled while in solution to allow the cyclodextrin to absorb various odor molecules when the solution is applied to the surface. In the absence of forming a complex). Non-derivatized (normal) beta-cyclodextrin may be present at levels up to a solubility limit of about 1.85% (about 1.85 g in 100 grams of water) at room temperature. Beta-cyclodextrin is undesirable in compositions that require a level of cyclodextrin that is higher than its water solubility limit. Non-derivatized beta-cyclodextrins are generally not preferred when the composition comprises a surfactant because this affects the surface activity of most preferred surfactants that are compatible with the derivatized cyclodextrins.

To control the odor on the fabric, the composition is preferably used as a spray. The use compositions of the present invention preferably comprise low levels of cyclodextrins such that no visible stains appear on the fabric at normal levels of use. Preferably, the solution used to treat the surface under the conditions of use is virtually not identified when dried. Typical levels of cyclodextrin in the use composition for use conditions are from about 0.01% to about 5%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 4%, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of the composition. . Compositions with higher concentrations may leave unacceptable visible stains on the fabric as the solution evaporates from the fabric. This is particularly a problem in thin, colored synthetic fabrics and the fabric preferably has less than about 5 mg cyclodextrin per gram of fabric, more preferably about 2 per gram of fabric in order to prevent or minimize the occurrence of staining of the fabric. Treated with less than mg cyclodextrin. The presence of surfactants can improve appearance by minimizing localized spotting.

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, are the preferred optional ingredients for improving the odor control performance of the compositions of the present invention when cyclodextrin is present. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that incorporation of small amounts of low molecular weight glycols into the compositions of the present invention enhances the formation of cyclodextrin trapping complexes when the fabric dries.

The ability of the polyols to remain in the fabric for longer periods than water when the fabric dries is believed to enable quaternary complex formation of cyclodextrins with some odor generating molecules. The addition of glycols is understood to fill the voids in the cyclodextrin cavities that cannot be filled by some malodor generating molecules of relatively smaller size. 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 produced by processes leading to the level of such polyols are highly desirable because they can be used without removal of these polyols.

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

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

Metal salt:

Optionally, the present invention may include metal salts for additional odor absorption and / or antimicrobial benefit to the cyclodextrin solution when cyclodextrin is present. This 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%, more preferably from about 0.2% to about 2, based on the weight of the composition used It exists at the level of%. When zinc salt is used as the metal salt and a clear solution is required, it may be necessary to adjust the pH of the solution to less than about 7 to keep the solution transparent.

When any 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%, and more preferably about 0.2% by weight of the composition To about 2%.

Antibacterial and Preservatives:

Optionally, the refresher composition of the present invention comprises an amount of antimicrobial active agent effective to kill microorganisms or reduce their growth, wherein the amount of antimicrobial active agent in use is preferably about 0.001% by weight of the composition used. To about 0.5%, more preferably about 0.002% to about 0.2%, even more preferably about 0.005% to about 0.1%. Effective antimicrobial actives can act as disinfectants / sterilizers and are useful for providing protection against organisms that adhere to the fabric.

Examples of additional preservatives include hydantoin chemistry based materials. Suitable examples of hydantoin chemicals include dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydan, exemplified by Dantogard 2000 and Dantogard Plus, available from Lonza Group Ltd., Basel, Switzerland. Toyne (DMDMH) -based preservatives are included.

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

pH regulator:

Acidic materials may be used to lower the composition pH to the 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 chosen to provide a stable mix both chemically and physically.

Basic materials can be used to raise the composition pH to the desired level. Non-limiting examples of suitable bases are typically low molecular weight inorganic bases such as sodium hydroxide. Preferably, the base used and the final pH of the composition are chosen to provide a stable mix both chemically and physically. Preferably, the composition of the present invention has a pH of about 3 to about 11, preferably about 4 to about 10, and more preferably about 5 to about 9.

Other optional ingredients:

The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain auxiliary odor-controlling materials, chelating agents, antistatic agents, emollients, insect repellents and moth repellents, colorants, antioxidants, chelating agents, bodying agents, drape and shape control agents. , Smoothing agent, anti-wrinkle agent, disinfectant, disinfectant, germ control agent, mold control agent, white mold control agent, antiviral agent, desiccant, antifouling agent, antifouling agent, odor control agent, fabric refreshing agent and lasting freshness Freshness extending agents, chlorine bleach odor control agents, dye fixatives, dye inhibitors, color retainers, optical brighteners, color recovery / regeneration agents, anti-bleaching agents, whiteness enhancers, anti-abrasion agents, Anti-wear agents, fabric integrity agents, anti-wear agents, anti-pilling agents, antifoams and antifoams, fabric and skin UV blockers, sun fade inhibitors, anti-allergic agents Bases, enzymes, repellents, fabric comfort agents, anti-shrinkage agents, anti-shrinkage agents, elastic recovery agents, natural actives such as aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter, and fragrances, silicones, skin care agents, glycerin Functional microcapsules containing an active substance such as, and mixtures thereof, and may further comprise silicon molecules. The total level of optional components is low and is preferably less than about 5%, more preferably less than about 3%, and even more preferably less than about 2% by weight of the composition used. These optional ingredients exclude other ingredients specifically mentioned above. The inclusion of an auxiliary odor-controlling substance can broaden the range of odor types and molecular sizes that can be controlled, as well as improve the capacity of the cyclodextrins to control odors. For example, such materials include metal salts, water soluble cationic and anionic polymers, zeolites, water soluble bicarbonate salts, and mixtures thereof.

carrier :

Preferred carriers of the invention are water. The water used may be distilled water, deionized water or tap water. Water is the main liquid carrier because of its low cost, availability, safety, and environmental coexistence. Aqueous solutions are also preferred when wrinkle control and odor control benefits are desired.

Water is very useful for removing or reducing fabric wrinkles. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that water breaks intra- and inter-fiber hydrogen bonds that keep the fabric in a corrugated state. It also swells, smooths and softens the fibers to aid in the wrinkle removal process.

Water also acts as a liquid carrier of the cyclodextrin and, when treated, facilitates the complex forming reaction between any malodorous molecules on the fabric and the cyclodextrin molecules. The diluted aqueous solution also provides maximum separation of the cyclodextrin molecules on the fabric, thereby maximizing the chance that the odor molecules will interact with the cyclodextrin molecules. It has also recently been found that water has its own unexpected odor control effect. It has been found that the intensity of odor generated by slight polarity, low molecular weight organic amines, acids, and mercaptans is reduced when the odor contaminated fabric is treated with an aqueous solution. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that water solubilizes these polar, low molecular weight organic molecules and reduces their vapor pressure to reduce odor intensity.

The level of 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 level of liquid carrier is typically about 50% or less by weight of the composition, preferably about 40% or less by weight of the composition, and more preferably by weight of the composition About 30% or less.

Water Soluble Solvent:

Optionally, in addition to water, the carrier may comprise a low molecular weight organic solvent that is substantially soluble in water. Non-limiting examples are ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, t-butyl alcohol deodorized acetone, acetone and the like, and mixtures thereof. Low molecular weight alcohols can help the treated fabric to dry faster. Ethers of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol (eg, ethylene glycol monohexyl ether) and glycols such as glycerin, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, ethylene glycol and the like 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), other glycol ethers such as 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, phenoxyethanol (and ethoxylate), butyl carbitol and dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether, adipic acid, glutar Acid, and ester solvents such as dimethyl ester of succinic acid, and mixtures thereof. Optional solvents are also useful for the solubilization of some form retaining polymers and some silicone polymers described above. The optional water soluble low molecular weight solvent is at most about 8%, typically about 0.05% to about 8%, preferably about 0.1% to about 5%, more preferably about 0.2% to about 3% by weight of the total composition Can be used at the level of. Factors that need to be considered when high levels of solvent are used in the composition are cost, odor, flammability, and environmental impact. If the intended use of the composition is to dispense (eg, spray) it into an automatic clothes dryer, flammable organic solvents are not preferred.

B. Manufactured Goods

The present invention may also include a composition and a dispenser for dispensing the composition. Non-limiting examples of dispensers suitable for dispensing or containing compositions include injectors, eg, self-pressurized spray containers (eg, aerosol containers), trigger injectors, dispensers, eg, Gerlach, dated June 13, 2006. US Patent No. 7,059,065 to US Pat. US Patent No. 7,043,855 to Heilman et al. On May 16, 2006; US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0143994, published July 29, 2004, in the name of Barron et al .; And those described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0123489, published on July 1, 2004 in the name of Pancheri et al .; inspirator; Substrates carrying / comprising the compositions (one non-limiting example of which includes a substrate such as a wipe or pad, or a roller (one non-limiting example is a lint roller)); Or combinations thereof. If desired, the composition can be dispensed directly to the fabric to be treated.

An effective amount of liquid composition is preferably sprayed onto the fabric, in particular the garment. When the composition is sprayed onto the fabric, typically from about 0.05% to about 150%, preferably from about 1.0% to about 75%, more, based on the weight of the fabric being sprayed, so that the fabric is moistened or completely wetted with the composition. Preferably an effective amount should be deposited on the fabric to be from about 2% to about 25%. Once sprayed, the fabric is preferably stretched selectively and for wrinkle removal. Elongation can be applied by hand, either by physical means, such as by weight, pulley, or the like, or by a tug & pull approach. If suspended using gravity as the stretch force, the fabric is typically stretched perpendicular to the pleats or along the vertical axis of the garment. The fabric can also be flattened and / or shaken by hand after being sprayed to remove wrinkles.

Alternatively or additionally, the composition may be added and / or dispensed directly into the fabric processing apparatus, including, but not limited to, a fabric laundry apparatus (one non-limiting example being a washing machine); Fabric drying apparatus (one non-limiting example being a tumble dryer); Textile refreshing devices (one non-limiting example is US Pat. No. 6,726,186 to Gauloul et al. On April 27, 2004; Van Hauwermeiren et al. On May 17, 2005). US Pat. No. 6,893,469; disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,840,068 to Pasin et al. On Jan. 11, 2005).

Self Pressurized  Spraying products

In one non-limiting embodiment, the invention can be a self pressurized spray product:

(1) a dispensing vessel capable of maintaining a desired pressure inside the vessel, without bursting or deformation;

(2) propellants;

(3) an aqueous treatment to provide benefits such as wrinkle removal and deodorization, comprising water soluble dialkyl quarts, perfumes and / or hydrocarbons including hydrocarbons, and fully branched hydrocarbons and optional ingredients as described above. Formulations;

(4) An actuator assembly that delivers a valve, nozzle opening, and, when actuated, a uniformly aerosolized spray cone with flat surface coverage.

Pressurized  Distribution container

The dispensing vessel of the present invention may be any container suitable for holding the components under the pressure created by the propellant, and is typically called an aerosol container. Such container designs in the form of metal cans, including both steel (tin) and aluminum aerosol containers, are well known. More recently, plastic containers have been developed that can be used to maintain the pressure generated by the propellant even inside the container.

Because aerosol containers are pressurized containers, the specifications for these containers are regulated in many countries depending on the pressure they contain. This has led to numerous 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 the minimum buckling and burst pressure and minimum wall thickness for the vessel. For example, aerosol products that exhibit pressures below 1070 kilopascals (“kPa”) at 54.5 ° C. (130 ° F.) are classified as non-standard containers and are not typically identified. Aerosol systems exhibiting pressures between 1070 kPa and 1200 kPa at 54.5 ° C. are required to use can structures having a 2P specification or greater. Aerosol systems exhibiting pressures between 1200 kPa and 1340 kPa at 54.5 ° C. are typically required to use can structures having a 2Q specification or greater. Similar standards exist in Europe with alternative markings including 1200 bar (12 bar) and 1800 bar (18 bar) can standards. These industry standards have been developed to maintain tight control over the structure of aerosol containers.

For the present invention, aluminum cans that meet the 2Q specification are preferred. Such cans can be obtained from numerous aerosol container manufacturers, including but not limited to the CCL Container Aerosol Division, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, or Exal Container, Youngstown, Ohio. have.

The dispensing vessel may be of any suitable shape. For example, cylindrical aerosol cans are well known in the art. In fact, industry standard can dimensions are also established, which provide a range of storage can sizes. These cans are typically specified according to the overall diameter and overall height of the can. Necked cans are generally used in which the vessel is tapered inwards towards the top of the can. Cans with shoulders may also be used. The container may have a number of shapes in different embodiments, but the necked cylindrical can shape tends to be ergonomical. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a necked cylindrical can shape having a 53 mm diameter and about 205 mm height can be used.

Most cans contain a coating or liner that prevents the container from corroding and helps the product prevent any possible chemical reaction with the container itself. Even a slight reaction between the product in the container and the container metallurgy can cause over-pressure conditions through reactions that change direction, change color, loss of chemical activity of critical components, and even produce additional gas. Therefore, the industry has developed a range of coatings and liners to prevent this interaction. These include, but are not limited to, enamels and liners made of the following types of resins: acrylic resins, maleic acid resins, polyamide imide resins, alkyd resins, vinyl resins, polybutadiene resins, phenolic resins, epoxy-amine resins, Epoxy-ester resins, epoxy-phenol resins, oleo resins, and the like. The choice of coating or liner depends on the metallurgical and product properties of the aerosol container. One embodiment using a polyamide imide liner coating is sold as PAM 8460N available from PPG Packaging Coatings, HOBA Division, Grabenstrabe, Germany.

Propellant

The propellant of the present invention can maintain a total can pressure of greater than 446 kPa (70 psig) and greater than 377 kPa (40 psig) at 75 ° C. at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.). Propellants can be selected from a number of propellants commonly used in the aerosol industry. These are typically classified as liquefied gas propellants or compressed gas propellants. Suitable compressed gas propellants include, but are not limited to, compressed air, nitrogen, nitrous oxide, 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 hydrofluoros such as HFC 152a and HFC 134a. Carbon is included but is not limited thereto.

The choice of propellant is a major factor influencing the gas pressure inside the can, which affects the impact pressure and delivery rate associated with the spray during operation of the valve. In certain embodiments, liquefied gas propellants tend to maintain better pressure inside the can throughout the use of the product and because the liquid propellant boils to maintain pressure as the gas volume of the can increases due to product consumption. It may be preferred over compressed gas propellants. If it is desired to control the level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the spray, a compressed gas such as nitrogen may be needed.

Propellants are typically mixed to achieve the required can pressure. The mixture of propellants may comprise propane, isobutane, and n-butane. In various embodiments of the invention, a mixture of propane and isobutane having a vapor pressure of between about 483 kPa (70 psig) and about 689 kPa (100 psig) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.) may be desirable. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, propane and iso are available from Diversified CPC International, Inc., Chanahorn, Ill., And are referred to as Aeron A85. Conventional blends of butane may be used. This blend contains 68.9 mol% propane and 31.1 mol% isobutane and provides a vapor pressure of 586 kPa (85 psig) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.).

Optionally, when it is necessary to avoid excessive interaction between the propellant and the product, a barrier packaging system has been developed to separate the propellant from the product in the aerosol container. These include piston barrier packaging and bag-backs such as ABS® Advanced Barrier System, available from CCL Container, Advance Monobloc Aerosol Division, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, USA. It includes a bag-in-can package. In some embodiments, such barrier packaging methods can be used to obtain more consistent product characteristics throughout the use of the product.

system

The self-pressing refreshing article of the present invention may be used alone as a refreshing article, or optionally in combination with a system for removing wrinkles and odors from the fabric, if desired. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, self-pressing wrinkles and odor refreshing articles can be used with a laundry process to remove odors prior to washing. For example, self-pressing wrinkle and odor refreshing articles can be used with fabric laundry appliances including, but not limited to, washing machines, where the fabric is treated with self-pressing wrinkle and odor refreshing articles and then washed in a fabric washing machine. do. Alternatively, prior to or after treatment with a self-pressing pleat and odor refreshing article, the fabric may be refreshed in a refreshing apparatus, including but not limited to a refreshing cabinet, a non-limiting example of which is described in US Pat. No. 6,726,186. Is initiated. If desired, self-pressing wrinkles and odor refreshing articles can be used as part of a pretreatment process to pretreat stains or in particular odor generating areas on fabrics prior to washing and / or refreshing. Additionally, if desired, the fabric may be processed in a textile article drying apparatus, before or after treatment with a self-pressing pleat and odor refreshing article, one non-limiting example of which is a tumble dryer.

Additionally, self-pressing refreshing articles may be used in combination with other textile processing products and marketed to form part of a textile processing array of products useful for providing textile processing benefits without the need to rely on laundry laundry processes if necessary. / Or can be grouped. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, the self-pressurizing refreshing article may comprise a product (s) for refreshing the fabric and / or a product (s) for removing stains, and / or a color development enhancer product (s) ( Both may be provided with US patent applications 12 / 008,427 and 12/008504, filed Jan. 11, 2008, all of which need not be applied as part of a laundry laundry process. It can be applied to the fabric. The arrangement of textile treatment products may be used in other forms. For example, the refreshing product and / or stain removal product may be in the form of a spray or cloth, such as cloth, wipes, pads, sponges, tapes (non-limiting examples of which may be lint rollers or stain removal pens). Can be. Likewise, the color development enhancer product may be in the form of a spray or a substrate.

kidney

When refreshing a textile article, it is advantageous and desirable to combine the product application with the extensibility applied to reduce the amount of wrinkles in the textile article. It is particularly advantageous to exert stretch during a time “window” in which the wet fabric remains “mobile” (which can be pulled) but is not completely dry. As used herein, the term "tensile tension" refers to the force exerted on the fabric to stretch, pull or flatten the fiber matrix. The stretching force may be uneven or may be applied constantly. Examples of non-uniform stretching forces include, but are not limited to, tumbling in the dryer and line-drying with wind. Constant stretching forces include, but are not limited to, the application of gravity, manual manipulation (eg, dragging, flattening, pulling) in a particular direction, ironing, weights, or other mechanical stretching systems. The magnitude of the flattening / wrinkle reduction gain will be proportional to the nature, amount, and duration of applied stretch force. In general, the end result is better at constant elongation compared to non-uniform elongation and for larger forces over smaller forces.

The compositions of the present invention can also be used as ironing aids. An effective amount of the composition can be sprayed onto the fabric and the fabric is ironed at the normal temperature to be ironed. An effective amount of the composition may be sprayed on the fabric and ironed after the fabric is dried, or the composition may be sprayed and ironed immediately.

In another aspect of the invention, the composition may be sprayed onto the fabric in an in-home de-wrinkling chamber comprising the fabric to be wrinkled and / or selectively deodorized, thereby making it convenient Can provide work Conventional personal as well as industrial deodorant and / or wrinkle removal devices are suitable for use in the present invention. Traditionally, these devices are operated by a steam process that causes the fibers to relax, and alternatively a refreshing composition can be sprayed onto the fabric, which can then be exposed to a heating and / or drying environment. Examples of household wrinkle removal chambers include a shower stall. Subsequently, injection of the composition or compound onto the fabric may occur in or before placing the fabric into the chamber of the device. Again, the spraying means should preferably be able to provide droplets having a weight average diameter of about 8 to about 100 μm, preferably about 10 to about 50 μm. Preferably, the loading of moisture on fabrics made from natural and synthetic fibers is from about 0.05% to about 150%, preferably from about 1% to about 75%, more preferably based on the weight of the sprayed fabric. Preferably from about 2% to about 25%. Other conventional steps that can be performed in the wrinkle removal device, for example heating and drying, can be applied. Preferably, for optimum gain, the temperature profile in 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. to be. The preferred length of the drying cycle is about 3 to about 60 minutes, more preferably about 10 to about 30 minutes. In addition, the steam step in the wrinkle removal device can be removed if the composition is maintained at a temperature range of about 22 ° C. (about 72 ° F.) to about 76 ° C. (170 ° F.).

Self-explanatory product

The invention also includes self-pressing spray wrinkle removal and odor refreshing products. A set of instructions may be included in connection with the product that instructs the user to follow how to remove wrinkles and odors from the fabric using the product. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, these instructions can direct the user to apply the spray to the corrugated area on the fabric. In another non-limiting embodiment, the instructions can direct the user to apply the spray to the wrinkled or odorous areas on the fabric. In yet another embodiment, the instructions can direct the user to apply the spray at a distance of about 5.08 cm (2 inches) to about 20.32 cm (8 inches) from the surface of the fabric. In yet another embodiment, the instructions may direct the user to concentrate the spray on the wrinkled or odorous area and to slowly move the spray out from the center of the area. In yet another embodiment, the instructions may direct the user to apply the spray to the corrugated area of the fabric and then exert stretching force on the fabric as described above.

In this specification, when referring to these instructions, "in reference to" means that the instructions are printed directly on the article to convey a set of instructions to the consumer of the article; Printed directly on the package for the article; Printed on a label attached to the package for the article; Or presented in other ways, including, but not limited to, brochures, print advertisements, electronic advertisements, broadcast or Internet advertisements, and / or other media.

Self of the present invention Pressurized  Spray wrinkles and odors Refreshing  How to Treat Fabrics with Goods

The invention also includes a method of use for wrinkle and odor refreshing on fabrics with the self-pressing spray articles of the invention. This includes operating the spray article to bring the spray stream into contact with the wrinkle or malodor generating area on the fabric. The method of use may optionally include wiping, blotting or washing the fabric after contact with the article.

Test Methods

Wetting Index Test

Wetting index is a test that measures the rate of wetting of a product on various fabrics. This test involves dropping a drop of test product (water is a control product) onto a fabric sample and time how long it takes for a drop of product to fully penetrate the fabric surface. The wetness index is defined as the time in seconds the water control takes to fully penetrate the surface divided by the time taken by the test product. Thus, larger wetting indices can be understood to indicate better wetting and how many times the product wets faster than water.

The method consists of the following steps:

1) A standard 15.2 cm (6 ") diameter two-piece embroidery loop / hoop is used to support the fabric material. A fabric sample larger than the hoop is placed over the inner hoop so that it lays flat. Place on a swatch and press over the inner hoop so that the fabric wedges between the two hoops, which should be flat and held in place between the two hoops with some stretch.

2) Place the hoop with the fabric on a horizontal surface, taking care not to fold the fabric outside the hoop under the hoop when placed on a horizontal surface. This is to keep the fabric horizontal (perpendicular to or normal to the direction of gravity) for the test.

3) Mount a VWR 20-200 microliter pipette so that the dispensing tip is 0.64 ± 0.16 cm (¼ ± 1/16 inch) above the fabric surface and the pipette is perpendicular to the surface. Adjust the pipette to dispense 30 μLiter drops.

4) Mount a light source to illuminate the fabric at an angle of about 45 degrees to the surface to clearly visualize droplet penetration and determine the end point.

5) Dispense 30 μLiter drops from the pipette to begin the test. The timer is started as soon as the droplet is dispensed and in contact with the fabric. The endpoint is defined as the point at which no free product remains on the surface, as determined by the disappearance of visual surface reflectivity from the ambient light source. The reflection of light from the product surface as a point of light (or light spots) is no longer observed, only the fabric surface becomes visible. At this point the timer is stopped and the wet time (T) is recorded.

6) The time measurement procedure is performed using a distilled water control, and the water wet time is denoted by T _w . The time measurement procedure is also performed using the test product and the wet time is expressed as T _p .

7) Wetting index is calculated as WI = T _w / T _p .

For the tests reported herein, the following fabric samples were used:

100% cotton woven fabric: A piece of style 400 cotton print cloth available from Testfabrics, Inc. in Middlesex, NJ.

75% Polyester, 25% Cotton Woven Fabric: Style PC 49 Polycotton, available from the Imperial Manufacturing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.

100% polyester woven fabric available from the Empire Manufacturing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.

100% wool fabric available from the Imperial Manufacturing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Moisture management test

The use of fabric refresher compositions for fabrics alters the moisture management properties of the treated fabrics. Properties commonly used to evaluate overall moisture management performance include wetting time, water absorption, maximum wetting radius, spreading speed, and dynamism of one-way transport. The rate of wetting is a parameter that initiates the process of allowing moisture to escape from the skin to enhance comfort. Such measurements are readily made in the laboratory as mentioned herein in the wet control test.

The moisture management test is performed similar to the wetness index test described above, but in this test the product is sprayed onto the fabric surface while the product is kept in the hoop as a pretreatment and the pretreated fabric is allowed to dry for at least 2 hours. The product is sprayed onto the fabric using any suitable injector device at a distance sufficient to achieve uniform coverage on the fabric. For aerosol vessels and pressure trigger spray injectors, the spray distance is about 12.7 cm (5 inches). One to two grams of product are applied to a 6 "hoop test zone. Once the pretreated fabric is dried, the wet time for one drop (30 μLiter) of distilled water is surfaced in the manner as described in the wet index test. For the moisture management effect, the wetting time for a drop of water is faster after the fabric has been treated with the fabric refresher composition compared to pretreatment with water alone.

Products after the spray test pH

This test reports the final sprayed pH and measures the pH before and after spraying the product to determine the Δ or change in pH resulting from the spraying.

Samples before and after spraying using a VWR Symphony SP80PI pH meter equipped with a gel 3-in-1 gel pH electrode available from VWR International, West Chester, Pennsylvania. The pH of was measured. Prior to daily use, at least two buffered brackets were used to calibrate the pH range of the samples according to the manufacturer's procedures.

The pH of the test sample is first measured precisely or as is, prior to spraying (initial pH), and then 35-40 grams of test sample are pulled once with a standard swirl chamber atomizer. Spray into this cup at a distance of 15.2 cm (6 ") from the bottom of a suitable plastic cup using a Calmar pressure trigger sprayer dispensing about 1.0 to 1.5 cc per sugar.

Pull trigger quickly to facilitate best spraying. After the end of the injection, the final pH is measured. This procedure is repeated five 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 injection)-(initial pH)

If ΔpH is a positive value, the pH is increased by spraying, which may be undesirable for acidic products. If ΔpH is negative, the pH is reduced by spraying, which may be undesirable for alkaline products.

Odor Removal Test A

This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the composition in reducing or removing malodor from fabrics. The test fabric is first washed in a laundry washing machine using a non-odorous laundry detergent and then dried in a laundry dryer. Approximately 5 milliliters of diluted synthetic body odor composition is applied evenly over the 51.6 cm 2 (8 square inch) area of each test fabric. The malodor-treated test fabric is dried and then sealed in a bag and allowed to equilibrate overnight at ambient temperature. A certified odor grader evaluates the initial malodor level of malodor-treated test fabrics and assigns a malodor grade according to the Malodor Evaluation Scale below. The malodor-treated test fabric is then treated with the same amount of test composition by spraying an effective amount of the test composition (about 60% by weight) onto the test fabric and drying the test fabric. Once the test fabric has dried, a verified odor grader again evaluates the odor level of the test fabric and grades the odor according to the odor rating scale below. Initial malodor grades and post-treatment malodor grades are recorded and the difference between these grades is calculated to establish the "odor reduction" value.

Odor rating scale

0 No odor / fragrance present

10 Possible odor / scent

25 Slight odor / scents exist

50 Moderate odors / odors

75 Strong odor / scent

100 Very strong odor / odor

Odor Removal Test B

This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the composition in reducing or removing malodor from fabrics. Panelists are given new clothing to wear multiple times without washing between wear occasions. A proven odor grader evaluates the initial malodor level of malodor-treated test fabrics and assigns a malodor grade according to the Malodor Evaluation Scale above. The malodor-treated test fabric is then treated with the same amount of test composition by spraying an effective amount of the test composition (about 2-5% by weight) onto the test garment and drying the test garment. Once the test garment is dried, a validated odor grader again evaluates the odor level of the test fabric and grades the odor according to the odor rating scale above. Initial malodor grades and post-treatment malodor grades are recorded and the difference between these grades is calculated to establish 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. Test fabrics may have a smoothness appearance ("SA") (i.e., washing causes wrinkles) or wrinkle recovery (as defined by the American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorists (AATCC)). "WR") (ie wear causes wrinkles) to prepare. A validated wrinkle grader evaluates the initial wrinkle level of the fabric and grades the wrinkles according to AATCC Test Method 128 and Test Method 143. The test fabric is then treated with the same amount of test composition by spraying the test composition onto the test fabric. To improve wrinkle removal, for example, by stretching, dragging and / or smoothing the test fabrics, they can be stretched while they are wet, allowing the test fabrics to dry. Once the test fabric has dried, a validated wrinkle grader again evaluates the wrinkles according to the AATCC grade table.

Microemulsion  Grain size rating:

Average particle size is measured using a Melbourne Zetasizer Nano ZS dynamic light scattering unit. All measurements are made at 22 ° C. using a viscosity of 0.954 mPa-sec in a clean disposable 10 mm cuvette. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standard for testing at 100 nm dispersed in 10 mmol NaCl is used to demonstrate operation. Allow the sample to equilibrate for 10 minutes.

The instrument uses the internal optimization algorithm in the operating software to position the attenuation and measurement. For the results, 30 runs of 20 seconds each are averaged. Each sample is run three times for a total of three results per sample. Samples may be filtered through a 0.5 micron filter prior to analysis to remove any large contaminants.

The average particle diameter for each sample is reported as Z-Ave parameter by Melbourne software.

EXAMPLE

Example  1 and Example  2: remove odor and remove wrinkles

Composition A of Table 1 above is used. Hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin and TEA are added to purified water under agitation (mix A). In another vessel, permethyl 102A is added to Arquad HTL8 MS with stirring. The perfume is then added and the mixture is stirred to give a clear mixture of single phase (mix B). In another vessel, 104 pg of SURFYNOL is mixed in a ratio of 3: 2 with Surfinol 465 under agitation (Mix C). Mix B is added to Mix A under stirring. After stirring for 10 minutes, mix C is then added. The pH of this 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 to 29 dyne / 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, Pennsylvania, and allowed to evaporate. The can is equipped with a Moritz lockable aerosol actuator available from SeaquistPerfect Dispensing LLC of Cary, Illinois, USA. The actuator is equipped with an XT-96 valve type with a 0.016 cm valve stem orifice diameter and a 0.04 cm valve body orifice diameter. A DU3027 insertion type with 0.012 cm (0.012 inch) orifice diameter is used. The can is filled with approximately 60% volume with Composition A. Nitrogen is added through the valve stem to approximately 965 kPa (140 psi) at 21 ° C. (70 ° F.) and approximately 155 psi at 54 ° C. (130 ° F.). When operated, the product delivers a spray stream with a mass delivery rate of approximately 1.1 g / sec. The level of coverage is uniform so that wet patches of products that are obvious to the consumer can be avoided by proper use. Ease and convenience of application is superior to conventional manual injectors. As measured by the test methods described in the Test Methods section of this specification, effective malodor reduction and comfort delivery by the product is achieved, and effective wrinkle removal is also achieved by stretching the fabric.

WR  wrinkle

Example 3: Wrinkle Removal Test

Three different fabrics were evaluated for wrinkle removal using the SA wrinkle test method. According to the method outlined above, 100% cotton capri pants, 55/40 poly / cotton white female weave shirts, and 100% cotton weave blue cotton shirts are pre-pleated. The garment is sprayed with uniform coverage on one side using a pressure triggered manual sprayer from Calmar. Subsequently, the garment is stretched by hand while pulling and pulling the garment. The amount sprayed on the capri pants, white poly / cotton shirt, and blue cotton shirt is approximately 10 grams, 5 grams, and 8 grams, respectively. In each treatment, three replicates are sprayed onto each garment. The initial wrinkle grade and final grade are recorded by three judges and the total average delta of the wrinkle grade (mean final grade-average initial grade) for each garment type is calculated. Positive results for the overall mean delta rating indicate wrinkle removal, with larger values indicating better results (more wrinkle reduction).

These examples show that the compositions of the present invention can provide approximately 1 to 1.5 improvements in wrinkle ratings for such demanding garments. This is the level of improvement that consumers can perceive. It should be noted that the good wrinkle removal performance for these compositions is consistent with their good wetness index.

Example  4: spraying After the test  product pH

Composition C is prepared as above except for the absence of triethanolamine (TEA) buffer and repeated again. The pH of the sample was adjusted to 7.8 with diluted hydrochloric acid and the sample was allowed to equilibrate overnight.

result:

This example illustrates how buffer addition can help to lower the change in pH of the alkaline product when sprayed through air.

Example 5: Wet Index Test

Compositions C, D, E, F, G are prepared as above based on water soluble quarts and evaluated by a wet index test using a cotton substrate. After three reps, the average is obtained.

Example 6: Wet Index Test

Compositions C, D, E, F, G are prepared as above based on water soluble quarts and evaluated by a wet index test using a poly-cotton 75/25 substrate. After three reps, the average is obtained.

Example 7: Wet Index Test

Compositions C and D are prepared as above based on water soluble quarts and evaluated by a wet index test using polyester and wool substrates. After three reps, the average is obtained. In this test, water droplets are very slow to penetrate and after 3 minutes the test is suspended and the time is recorded as exceeding 180 seconds.

Example  8: moisture management test

Two fabrics of particular importance for moisture management are 100% cotton and 100% polyester. Compositions C and D are prepared as above based on water soluble quarts and evaluated by moisture management tests with polyester and cotton substrates. Perform 4 reps and average. In this test, water droplets on polyester are so slow to penetrate that after 5 minutes the test is stopped and the time is recorded as exceeding 300 seconds.

The data in this example show that some fabrics pretreated with the compositions of the present invention make an impressive difference in how quickly water is absorbed into the treated fabric surface.

Example  9: Microemulsion  Particle size analysis

Compositions H and I are prepared with the same surfactant levels and compositions H and I are excluded from cyclodextrins being removed in order to obtain as accurate readings as possible on the particle size of the formed microemulsion without significant interference from the added cyclodextrins. And are similar to Compositions C and D, respectively.

Three versions of Composition H are prepared using different levels of perfume. The oil component in this case constitutes a fragrance with a clogP of 3.79 and a permethyl 102A with a clogP of 6.58 as calculated by the LogP predictor from Chemsilo Ellc. The oil is mixed with Arquad HTL8 MS surfactant at room temperature and then added to the water and TEA mixture. Low shear prop mixing is used to obtain the final mixture. The pH is adjusted to the final value by titrating the H ₂ SO ₄ solution as the final step.

Three versions of Composition H are prepared using different levels of perfume. The oil component in this case constitutes a fragrance with 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. The pH is adjusted to the final value by titrating the H ₂ SO ₄ solution as the final step.

Three versions of Composition H and Composition I are analyzed via the particle size method described herein and the average of three replicates for each sample is taken as the final reported diameter in nanometers.

The data indicate that the quaternary surfactant system has limitations on the amount of oil that can allow and maintain microemulsion properties. If the average particle size exceeds about 300 nm, this system behaves as a macroemulsion where high opacity and heterogeneity is observed within two days.

Example 10 Static Control

This test demonstrates the characteristic static control of these compositions as demonstrated for 100% polyester shirts.

A representative 100% polyester women's blouse, Lady Edwards ™ style 5050-00 cut SN0414 is used for this test. The front of the shirt is divided into a left half and a right half by placing a line of masking tape vertically downward along the center of the shirt. The sleeve on each side of the shirt is rubbed in eight vertical strokes on the front half of each shirt over the entire length of the shirt to generate static electricity on each side of the shirt. Each side is evaluated for the presence of static electricity using the Greenley non-contact voltage detector model GT-11 as described above. Next, using a pressure trigger manual injector uniformly sprayed onto each side, the left half is sprayed with 6 grams of composition C of Table 1 and the right half is sprayed with 6 grams of distilled water. After spraying, wait 15 seconds before each side is evaluated for static electricity while still moist. The shirt is allowed to dry for 90 minutes, and the sleeve is then rubbed eight times on each side again in an attempt to regenerate static electricity. After rubbing, each side is again evaluated for static electricity using a GT-11 non-contact voltage detector.

The results of this test show that although water can temporarily remove the static electricity already formed on the fabric, it will not prevent subsequent static buildup. The quart based microemulsions will not only eliminate static electricity formed on the fabric surface, but will also prevent the subsequent generation of static electricity by the good wet coverage and quart properties provided by these compositions.

While 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. Accordingly, all such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the invention are intended to be included in the appended claims. All documents cited herein are incorporated by reference in their associated parts. Citation of any document should not be construed as an admission of this document as prior art to the present invention.

Claims (12)

A composition for treating a fabric comprising the following to make it homogeneous and stable:
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% nonionic surfactant;
d) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 3% buffer;
e) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 5% odor control agent;
f) optionally, from about 0.001% to about 0.5% antimicrobial active agent;
g) optionally, a pH adjuster sufficient to achieve a pH of about 3 to about 11;
h) optionally, from about 0.001% to about 0.5% of a preservative;
i) optionally from about 0.05% to about 8% of a substantially water soluble solvent; And
j) remaining water. The composition of claim 1, further comprising 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 wetting index for the cotton fabric is about 2. a) i) from 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; And
iii) providing a composition comprising a balance of water; And
b) applying the composition to the fabric. The method of claim 5 wherein the composition is applied to the fabric by spraying. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising stretching the fabric before or after applying the composition to the fabric. The method of claim 5, wherein the fabric is placed in a washing machine before or after applying the composition to the fabric. The method of claim 5, wherein the fabric is placed in a refreshing mechanism before or after applying the composition to the fabric. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the fabric is placed in a drying apparatus prior to applying the composition to the fabric. A self pressing fabric refreshing article comprising the composition of claim 1. 12. The self-pressing fabric refreshing article according to claim 11, wherein the article is part of a series of products further comprising a stain removal product or a color enhancement product.