TW201307633A - Improved cleaning apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides an apparatus and method for use in the cleaning of soiled substrates, the apparatus comprising: (a) housing means, having: (i) a first upper chamber having mounted therein a rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, and (ii) a second lower chamber located beneath the cylindrical cage; (b) at least one recirculation means; (c) access means; (d) pumping means; and (e) a multiplicity of delivery means, wherein the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage comprises a drum comprising perforated side walls, wherein up to 60% of the surface area of the side walls comprises perforations, and the perforations comprise holes having a diameter of no greater than 25.0 mm. The method involves cleaning the soiled substrate by treatment of the moistened substrate with a formulation comprising solid particulate cleaning material and wash water, the method being carried out using the apparatus of the invention. The apparatus and method find particular application in the cleaning of textile fabrics.

Description

Improved cleaning device and method

This invention relates to the aqueous cleaning of substrates using a cleaning system that requires the use of only a limited amount of energy, water and detergent. Most particularly, the present invention relates to the cleaning of textile fibers and fabrics by means of such a system, and to providing apparatus suitable for use in this context.

The aqueous washing process is the mainstay of household and industrial textile fabric washing. Assuming that a desired degree of cleaning is achieved, the performance of the process is typically characterized by its amount of energy, water, and detergent consumed. In general, the lower the demand for the three components, the more effective the washing process is considered. The downstream effects of reducing water and detergent consumption are also significant, thus minimizing the need for aqueous effluent treatment, which is extremely expensive and environmentally harmful.

These washing processes in turn involve aqueous immersion of the fabric, removal of contaminants, suspension of aqueous contaminants, and water rinsing. In general, the higher the amount of energy (or temperature), water, and detergent used, within the actual limits, the better the cleaning. However, the main problem is the water consumption, which therefore determines the energy demand (to heat the wash water), and the detergent dose (to achieve the desired detergent concentration). In addition, the amount of water defines the mechanical action of the process on the fabric, which is another important performance parameter; this mechanical action agitates the surface of the fabric during washing, which plays a major role in releasing the embedded contaminants. In an aqueous process, this mechanical action is provided by a combination of water usage and drum design for any particular washing machine. In general, the higher the amount of water in the drum, the better the mechanical action. Therefore, there are differences arising from the desire to improve the overall process efficiency (i.e., reduce energy, water, and detergent consumption) and the need for effective mechanical action in the wash. Especially for household washing, in addition to the obvious cost penalty associated with this use, there are definitions of washing performance standards that are specifically designed to prevent the use of such higher amounts of water in practice.

Current effective home washing machines have made significant improvements to minimize their energy, water and detergent consumption. EU Directive 92/75/CEE sets the standard for defining the energy consumption of washing machines expressed in kWh/cycle (cotton setting at 60 °C) so that effective household washing machines typically consume a washing load of <0.19 kWh/kg to obtain ' A' level. If water consumption is also considered, the 'A' machine uses a washing load of <9.7 litres/kg, while the most efficient current machine is now able to use even less water - for example the F1480FD6 model manufactured by LG (see www.lg. Com). This machine typically uses 63 liters per 7 kg of wash load, or 7 liters/kg.

In addition, the detergent dosage is determined by the manufacturer's recommendation, but again, in the home market, for concentrated liquid formulations, usually from 35 ml (or 37 g) (for 4-6 kg wash load, in soft and medium hardness water) Increase to 52 ml (or 55 g) (for 6-8 kg wash load, or in hard water or for extremely dirty matter) (for example, see for Small &Mighty's Unilever Packing Dose Description). Therefore, for a 4-6 kg wash load in soft/medium water hardness, this is equivalent to a detergent dose of 7.4-9.2 g/kg, and for a 6-8 kg wash load (either in hard water or for extremely dirty materials) This range is 6.9-9.2 g/kg.

However, the energy, water and detergent consumption in industrial washing processes (scrubber-extractors) are significantly different, and the application of energy and water is less limited by such environments, as these applications reduce cycle time The main factor - of course, the cycle time needs to be considered more than the family situation. However, there are similar requirements for the amount of detergent, but this is most likely due to the desire to reduce costs.

Thus, from the above discussion, it can be concluded that the performance values set for the highest standards for an effective fabric washing process are energy consumption < 0.19 kWh/kg, water usage is about 7 liters/kg, and detergent dosage is about 8 g/kg. . However, as already stated, it is increasingly difficult to reduce the amount of water (and thus energy and detergent) in the pure aqueous process due to the minimum need for adequate wetting of the fabric, to provide sufficient excess water to suspend the aqueous liquid. The need to remove contaminants and the final need for rinsing fabrics.

In addition, the main application of heating the water system energy is heated, and the detergent needs to have a minimum value to achieve an effective concentration at the operating wash temperature. The aqueous washing process can become significantly more effective (i.e., further reducing the consumption of energy, water, and detergent) if the manner of improving the mechanical action is achieved without increasing the amount of water used. It should be noted that the mechanical action itself has a direct effect on the amount of detergent, as the greater the degree of contaminant removal by physical force, the less detergent chemicals are required. However, increasing the mechanical action during the pure aqueous washing process has certain associated disadvantages. The fabric tends to wrinkle during such processes, and this causes stresses from the mechanical action of each wrinkling to accumulate, resulting in localized fabric damage. Preventing this fabric damage (i.e., fabric care) is a major concern for home consumers and industrial users.

Various ways of developing new cleaning technologies have been reported in the prior art, including methods based on ozone cleaning, ultrasonic technology or steam technology, which also rely on electrolytic cleaning or plasma cleaning. Thus, for example, WO-A-2009/021919 teaches the use of UV-generated ozone and plasma fabric washing and disinfecting processes. An alternative technique involves cold water washing in the presence of a given enzyme, and another way that is particularly beneficial is dependent on air scrubbing techniques and is disclosed, for example, in US-A-2009/0090138. In addition, a variety of carbon dioxide cleaning techniques have been developed, such as those described in US-B-7, 481, 893 and US-A-2008/0223406 using ester additives and dense phase gas treatments, but such methods are generally more suitable for dry cleaning. field. However, in particular, many of these technologies are technically complex and not readily adaptable to home applications.

In view of the difficulties associated with aqueous washing processes, the inventors have previously devised new ways to address this problem, which are technically simple and still overcome the deficiencies exhibited by prior art methods. The method provided eliminates the need to use larger volumes of water, but still provides an effective means of cleaning and stain removal while also providing economic and environmental benefits.

Thus, in WO-A-2007/128962, a method and formulation for cleaning a contaminated substrate is disclosed, the method comprising treating a wet substrate with a formulation comprising a plurality of polymeric particles, wherein the formulation is free of organic solvents. Preferably, the substrate is wetted to achieve a moisture content of between 1:0.1 w/w and 1:5 w/w, and optionally the formulation further comprises at least one detergent nature. The cleaning material usually includes a surfactant. In a preferred embodiment, the substrate comprises textile fibers and the polymeric particles may, for example, comprise particles of polyamine, polyester, polyolefin, polyurethane or copolymer thereof, but are preferably nylon fragments. form.

However, the use of this method of cleaning requires the removal of fragments or beads that are effectively separated from the washed substrate at the end of the wash, and this problem was first proposed in WO-A-2010/094959, WO-A-2010/094959 A novel design of the cleaning device that requires the use of two internally rotatable barrels that can be rotated independently and that is suitable for both industrial and household cleaning processes.

However, in order to provide a simpler, more economical way to solve the problem of effectively separating the cleaning medium from the substrate at the end of the cleaning process, another device is disclosed in co-pending PCT Patent Application No. PCT/GB2010/051960 in. The apparatus of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/GB2010/051960 is suitable for both industrial and domestic washing processes, comprising a perforated drum and a removable outer drum film, the removable outer drum film being adapted to prevent rotation The fluid inside the cylinder and the solid particulate matter flow in or out. The cleaning method entails attaching the skin to the drum during the first wash cycle and then removing the skin prior to operating the second wash cycle, followed by removal of the wash matrix from the drum.

The apparatus and method of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/GB2010/051960 can be found to be extremely effective in successfully cleaning a substrate, but the need to attach and remove the skin detracts from the overall process efficiency, and the inventors seek to solve the cleaning. This aspect of the operation provides a way to eliminate the need for this program step. Thus, by providing a continuous cycle of cleaning debris during the cleaning process, it has been found that the need to provide a skin can be eliminated.

Thus, in accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for cleaning a contaminated substrate is provided, the apparatus comprising:

(a) an outer casing member having:

(i) a first upper chamber in which is mounted a rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, and

(ii) a second lower chamber located below the cylindrical cage;

(b) at least one recirculating member;

(c) pick and place components;

(d) pumping components; and

(e) multiple delivery components,

Wherein the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage comprises a drum having perforated side walls, wherein up to 60% of the surface area of the side walls comprises perforations, and the perforations comprise holes having a diameter of no more than 25.0 mm.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, no more than 50%, more preferably no more than 40% of the side walls comprise perforations.

Preferably, the perforations comprise holes having a diameter of from 2 mm to 25 mm, preferably from 4 mm to 10 mm, optimally from 5 mm to 8 mm.

The pick and place member typically includes a hinged door mounted in the housing that can be opened to access the interior of the cylindrical cage and that can be closed to provide a substantially sealed system. Preferably, the door comprises a window. Optionally, the door also includes at least one additional crucible that facilitates the addition of material to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage.

The rotatably mounted cylindrical cage can be mounted vertically within the outer casing member, but is preferably horizontally mounted within the outer casing member. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pick and place member is located in front of the device to provide a front loading facility. When the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is vertically mounted within the outer casing member, the pick and place member is located at the top of the device to provide a top loading facility. However, for the purpose of further illustrating the invention, it will be assumed that the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is horizontally mounted within the outer casing member.

The rotation of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is affected by the use of a drive member that typically includes an electrically driven member in the form of an electric motor. The operation of the drive member is affected by a control member that can be programmed by an operator.

The rotatably mounted cylindrical cage has dimensions found in most commercially available washing machines and drum dryers and may have a capacity in the range of 10 liters to 7,000 liters. Typical capacities for home washing machines range from 30 liters to 120 liters, while for industrial scrubber-extractors, any capacity in the range of 120 liters to 7000 liters is possible. Typical dimensions in this range are suitable for a 50 kg wash load, where the drum has a volume of 450 to 650 liters, and in such cases the cage typically comprises a diameter ranging from 75 cm to 120 cm, preferably A cylinder of 90 cm to 110 cm in length and between 40 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 60 cm and 90 cm. Typically, the cage has a volume of 10 liters per kg of wash load to be washed.

The apparatus is designed to operate with a contaminated substrate and a cleaning medium comprising solid particulate material, preferably in the form of a plurality of polymeric particles. It is desirable to effectively recycle the polymeric particles to promote efficient cleaning and the device thus preferably comprises a recycle member. Accordingly, the inner surface of the cylindrical side wall of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage preferably includes a plurality of elongate projections spaced substantially perpendicularly from the inner surface. Preferably, the protrusions additionally comprise air amplifiers that are typically pneumatically driven and adapted to facilitate circulation of the air stream within the cage. Typically, the device comprises from 3 to 10, optimally four of the protrusions, which are commonly referred to as lifters.

In operation, agitation is provided by rotating the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, additional agitation members are also provided to facilitate efficient removal of residual solid particulate material at the end of the cleaning operation. Preferably, the agitating member comprises an air nozzle.

The rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is located within the first upper chamber of the outer casing and a second lower chamber serving as a collection chamber for the cleaning medium is located below the first upper chamber. Preferably, the lower chamber comprises an enlarged sedimentation tank.

The outer casing member is coupled to a standard piping component, thereby providing at least one recirculating member in addition to the plurality of delivery members, by means of which (at least) water and optionally detergent (e.g., surfactant) can be introduced into the device in. The apparatus may additionally include means for circulating air within the outer casing member and for adjusting the temperature and humidity therein. The component can typically include, for example, a recirculating fan, an air heater, a water atomizer, and/or a steam generator. Additionally, sensing members may be provided to specifically determine temperature and humidity values within the device and for communicating this information to the control member.

Accordingly, the apparatus includes at least one recirculating member thereby facilitating recirculation of the solid particulate material from the lower chamber to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage for reuse in the scrubbing operation. Preferably, the first recirculation member includes a conduit connecting the second chamber and the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. More preferably, the conduit includes a separate member separating the solid particulate material from water and a control member adapted to control the entry of the solid particulate material into the cylindrical cage. Typically, the separating member comprises a filter material, such as a wire mesh in a receiving container above the cylindrical cage, and the control member includes a valve located in the feed member, the feed member preferably being attached thereto The container is received and connected to the form of a feed conduit inside the cylindrical cage.

Recycling solid particulate matter from the lower chamber to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage by using a pumping member included in the first recirculation member, wherein the pumping member is adapted to deliver the solid particulate matter The separation member and the control member are adapted to control the solid particulate matter to re-enter the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. Preferably, the apparatus additionally includes a second recirculating member to return water separated by the separating member to the lower chamber, thereby facilitating reuse of the water in an environmentally beneficial manner.

Preferably, the lower chamber includes an additional pumping member in addition to the heating member to facilitate circulation and mixing of its contents to increase the contents to a preferred temperature for operation.

In operation, during a typical cycle, contaminated clothing is first placed in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. The solid particulate material and the desired amount of water, as well as any additional detergent required, are then added to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. If desired, the materials are heated to a desired temperature in the outer casing including the lower chamber and introduced into the cylindrical cage via the first recirculation member. Alternatively, the detergent and water may be premixed, for example, and added via an added crucible mounted to the pick and place member or via the separate member positioned above the cylindrical cage. This water can be heated as needed. At a later stage during the wash cycle, additional detergents (where bleach is typical) and more heated water as needed may be added using the same components.

During agitation by the rotating cage, the fluid and a quantity of solid particulate material fall through the perforations into the cage and into the lower chamber of the device. The solid particulate material can then be recycled via the first recirculation member to the separation member, the solid particulate material being returned to the cylindrical cage from the separation member in a manner controlled by the control member to continue for the washing operation . This process of continuous circulation of the solid particulate material is continuously performed throughout the washing operation until it is thoroughly washed.

Thus, solid particulate material that falls into the wall of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via the perforation and enters the lower chamber is carried to the top side of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, wherein the solid particulate material is rendered by gravity The cleaning operation is continued by the separating member and by the operation of the control member through the feeding member and back into the cage.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of cleaning a contaminated substrate, the method comprising treating the substrate with a formulation comprising a solid particulate cleaning material and wash water, wherein the method is in the first aspect of the invention Implemented in the device.

Preferably, the method comprises the steps of:

(a) introducing the solid particulate cleaning material and water into the second lower chamber of the apparatus of the first aspect of the invention;

(b) agitating and heating the solid particulate cleaning material and water;

(c) loading at least one contaminated substrate into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via a pick and place member;

(d) closing the pick-and-place member to provide a substantially sealed system;

(e) introducing the solid particulate cleaning material and water into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via a recirculating member;

(f) operating a device for a washing cycle, wherein the rotatably mounted cylinder is rotated and wherein the fluid and solid particulate cleaning material falls into the controlled manner via the perforations in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage In the second lower chamber;

(g) operating the pumping member to deliver fresh solid particulate cleaning material and recycling the used solid particulate cleaning material to the separation member;

(h) operating the control member to add the fresh and recycled solid particulate cleaning material to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage in a controlled manner;

(i) Continue to perform steps (f), (g) and (h) as needed to clean the contaminated substrate.

Preferably, an additional detergent is used in the process. The additional detergent may be added to the lower chamber of the apparatus having the solid particulate cleaning material, heated to a desired temperature therein, if desired, and introduced into the cylindrical cage via the first recirculation member. Preferably, however, the additional detergents are premixed with water, the mixture may be heated as needed, and then added to the cylindrical cage via an additional crucible mounted on the access door. This addition can be carried out using a spray head to better distribute the detergents in the wash load, as desired. Alternatively, the detergents can be added via separate members located above the cage.

Preferably, the fresh and recycled solid particulate cleaning material is pumped at a rate sufficient to maintain the same amount of cleaning material in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage throughout the cleaning operation, and to ensure washing The ratio of net material to contaminated substrate remains substantially constant until the wash cycle is completed.

The combination of the ability to produce a suitable G force and solid particulate cleaning material is a major factor in achieving an appropriate degree of cleaning of the contaminated substrate. G varies with the cage size and the rotational speed of the cage, and in particular the ratio of the centripetal force generated on the inner surface of the cage to the static weight of the wash load. Therefore, for a cage having an inner diameter of r (m), a rotation of R (rpm), a washing load of mass M (kg), and an instantaneous tangential rate of the cage of v (m/s), and g is regarded as gravity Acceleration 9.81 m/s ² :

Centripetal force = Mv ² /r

Washing load static weight = Mg

v=2πrR/60

Therefore, G=4π ² r ² R ² /3600rg=4π ² rR ² /3600g=1.18 x 10 ^-3 rR ²

Usually, when r is expressed in centimeters instead of meters, then:

G=1.118 x 10 ^-5 rR ²

Therefore, for a drum with a radius of 49 cm and rotating at 800 rpm, G = 350.6.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a cylindrical drum having a diameter of 98 cm is rotated at a speed of 30-800 rpm to produce a G force of 0.49-350.6 at different stages during the washing process. In an example of an alternate embodiment of the invention, a 48 cm diameter drum rotating at 1600 rpm produces 687 G, while a 60 cm diameter drum rotating at the same speed produces 859 G.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the claimed method is additionally used to separate and recover the solid particulate cleaning material, and the solid particulate cleaning material can then be reused in subsequent washing.

The rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is preferably rotated during a wash cycle at a rotational speed of G < 1, which requires a rotational speed of up to 42 rpm for a 98 cm diameter cage, preferably at a rotation rate of 30 rpm. Between 40 rpm.

Once the washing cycle is completed, the supply of the solid particulate cleaning material to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is stopped and the rotational speed of the cage is initially increased to dry the substrate to a certain extent, thereby producing between 10 and 1000, more Specifically, the G force is between 40 and 400. Typically, for a 98 cm diameter cage, rotate at speeds of up to 800 rpm to achieve this effect. Subsequently, the rotational speed is reduced and returned to the speed of the wash cycle to remove the solid particulate wash material.

Optionally, after the bead removal operation, the method may additionally include a rinsing operation in which additional water may be added to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage to completely remove any additional detergent used in the cleaning operation . Water may be added to the cylindrical cage via the added crucible mounted on the access door. Also, it may be added by means of a spray head as needed to better distribute the flushing water in the washing load. Alternatively, the addition may be carried out via a separate member or by filling the second, lower chamber of the device with water such that water enters the first, upper chamber and thereby partially immerses the rotatably Install the cylindrical cage and enter the cage. After rotating at the same speed as during the wash cycle, the water is removed from the cage by reducing the water content to an appropriate value, and regardless of the flushing water addition method used, then the rotation speed of the cage is increased to achieve a certain degree of drying of the substrate. . Typically, for a 98 cm diameter cage, the rotation speed is as high as 800 rpm to achieve this effect. Subsequently, the rotational speed is reduced and returned to the speed of the wash cycle, thereby ultimately removing any remaining solid particulate wash material. These flushing and drying cycles can be repeated as often as needed.

The flush cycle can be used for matrix processing purposes as needed, which involves the addition of treatment agents such as anti-redeposition additives, optical brighteners, perfumes, lubricants, and starches to the rinse water.

Preferably, the solid particulate cleaning material is subjected to a cleaning operation in the lower chamber by washing the chamber with clean water in the presence or absence of a detergent (e.g., a surfactant). This water can be heated as needed. Alternatively, the solid particulate cleaning material can be washed in a separate stage in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage using water that is also optionally heated.

Typically, any remaining solid particulate cleaning material on the at least one substrate can be readily removed by shaking the at least one substrate. However, if desired, other remaining solid particulate cleaning materials may be removed by a suction member, preferably including a vacuum short rod.

The invention will now be further elucidated with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The device of the present invention can be used to clean any of a wide range of substrates including, for example, plastic materials, leather, paper, cardboard, metal, glass or wood. In practice, however, the device is primarily designed for washing substrates comprising textile fiber garments and has been shown to be particularly successful in effectively cleaning, for example, textile fibers including: natural fibers (eg cotton), or artificial and synthetic Textile fibers (eg nylon 6,6, polyester, cellulose acetate, or fiber blends thereof).

Most preferably, the solid particulate cleaning material comprises a plurality of polymeric particles. Typically, the polymeric particles include polyolefins that are foamable or non-foamable (e.g., polyethylene and polypropylene), polyamides, polyesters, or polyurethanes. Additionally, the polymers can be linear or crosslinked polymers. Preferably, however, the polymeric particles comprise polyamidamide or polyester particles, most particularly particles of nylon, polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate, most preferably beads Granular form. These polyamines and polyesters have been found to be particularly effective for aqueous stain/contaminant removal, while polyolefins are particularly useful for removing oil-based stains.

Various nylon or polyester homopolymers or copolymers may be used, including but not limited to nylon 6, nylon 6,6, polyethylene terephthalate, and polybutylene terephthalate. Preferably, the nylon comprises a resistance ranging from 5,000 Daltons to 30,000 Daltons, preferably from 10,000 Daltons to 20,000 Daltons, and most preferably from 15,000 Daltons to 16,000 Daltons. Lun 6,6 homopolymer. The polyester typically has a molecular weight corresponding to an intrinsic viscosity measurement ranging from 0.3 to 1.5 dl/g as measured by solution techniques such as ASTM D-4603.

Copolymers of the above polymeric materials may be used for the purposes of the present invention, as desired. In particular, the properties of the polymeric material can be tailored to meet specific needs by incorporating monomeric units that impart specific properties to the copolymer. Thus, the copolymer may be adapted to attract a particular stained material by including monomeric units in the polymer chain, which are especially ionically charged, or comprise polar moieties or unsaturated organic groups. Examples of such groups may include, for example, an acid or an amine group, or a salt thereof, or a side alkenyl group.

The polymeric particles are shaped and sized such that they have good flow and are in intimate contact with the textile fibers. Particles of various shapes can be used, such as cylindrical, spherical or cubic; suitable cross-sectional shapes can be used, including, for example, a torus, a dog bone, and a circle. Preferably, however, the particles comprise cylindrical or spherical beads.

The particles may have a smooth or irregular surface structure and may have a solid or hollow configuration. The granules are sized such that the average mass is from 1 to 35 mg, preferably from 10 to 30 mg, more preferably from 12 to 25 mg, and the surface area is from 10 to 120 mm ² , preferably from 15 to 50 mm ² , more preferably 20-40 mm ² .

In the case of cylindrical beads, the preferred particle size ranges from 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, more preferably from 1.5 mm to 4.0 mm, optimally from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, and the bead length is preferably in the range of 1.0 mm. Up to 4.0 mm, more preferably 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm, and the optimum range is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

Generally, for spherical beads, the preferred diameter of the sphere ranges from 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, more preferably from 2.0 mm to 4.5 mm, optimally from 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm.

Water is added to the system to provide additional lubrication to the cleaning system and thereby improve the transport properties within the system. Thus, it is advantageous to transfer the at least one cleaning material more efficiently to the substrate and to more easily remove dirt and stains from the substrate. If desired, the contaminated substrate can be wetted by wetting with mains water or tap water prior to loading into the apparatus of the present invention. In either case, water is added to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage of the apparatus of the present invention to effect a washing process to achieve a preferred between 2.5:1 w/w and 0.1:1 w/w. Water to matrix ratio; more preferably, the ratio is between 2.0:1 and 0.8:1, with particularly advantageous results at ratios such as 1.75:1, 1.5:1, 1.2:1, and 1.1:1. . Most conveniently, the desired amount of water is introduced into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage of the apparatus of the present invention after loading the contaminated substrate into the cage. During the cycle of the solid particulate cleaning material, an additional amount of water will migrate into the cage, but the amount of carryover will be minimized by the action of the separating members.

In one embodiment, although the method of the present invention contemplates cleaning the contaminated substrate by treating the wetted substrate with a formulation consisting essentially of only a plurality of polymeric particles in the absence of any other additive, in other embodiments the blending is used. The article may additionally include at least one detergent as needed. The at least one detergent may comprise at least one cleaning material. Preferably, the at least one cleaning material comprises at least one detergent composition. The at least one cleaning material is mixed with the polymeric particles as needed, but in a preferred embodiment, each of the polymeric particles is coated with the at least one cleaning material.

The main components of the detergent composition include a cleansing component and a post-treatment component. Typically, the cleaning component comprises a surfactant, an enzyme, and a bleach, and the post-treatment component comprises, for example, an anti-redeposition additive, a fragrance, and an optical brightener.

However, the detergent formulation may optionally contain one or more other additives, such as synergists, chelating agents, dye transfer inhibiting agents, dispersing agents, enzyme stabilizers, catalytic materials, bleach activators, polymeric dispersants, clay removers, Suds suppressors, dyes, structural elastomers, fabric softeners, starches, carriers, hydrotropes, processing aids and/or pigments.

Examples of suitable surfactants may be selected from nonionic and/or anionic and/or cationic surfactants and/or amphoteric and/or facultative and/or semi-polar nonionic surfactants. The surfactant is typically present in an amount of from about 0.1% by weight, from about 1% by weight, or even from about 5% by weight to about 99.9% by weight of the cleaning composition, about 80% by weight, about 35% by weight of the cleaning composition. % by weight, or even about 30% by weight.

The composition may comprise one or more detergent enzymes that provide cleaning performance and/or fabric care benefits. Examples of suitable enzymes include, but are not limited to, hemicellulases, peroxidases, proteases, other cellulases, other xylanases, lipases, phospholipases, esterases, keratinolytic enzymes, pectinase, keratin Nuclease, reductase, oxidase, phenol oxidase, lipoxygenase, ligninase, pullulanase, tannase, pentosanase, malanase, [β]-glucanase, An arabinosidase, hyaluronidase, chondroitinase, laccase, and amylase, or mixtures thereof. Typical combinations may include enzymes such as proteases, lipases, keratinolytic enzymes and/or cellulases, and mixtures of amylases.

Enzyme stabilizers may also be included in the cleansing component, as desired. In this regard, enzymes for use in detergents can be stabilized by various techniques, such as by incorporating a water soluble calcium and/or magnesium source into the composition.

The composition may comprise one or more bleaching compounds and related activators. Examples of such bleach compounds include, but are not limited to, peroxy compounds, including hydrogen peroxide, inorganic peroxy salts (eg, perborates, percarbonates, perphosphates, perrhenates, and monopersulfates (eg, Sodium perborate tetrahydrate and sodium percarbonate)), and organic peroxyacids (eg peracetic acid, monoperoxydecanoic acid, diperoxydodecanedioic acid, N,N'-p-xylylenediyl-di (6-Aminoperoxyhexanoic acid), N,N'-phthalic acid aminoperoxycaproic acid and mercapto peroxyacid). Bleach activators include, but are not limited to, carboxylates such as tetraethylamethylenediamine and sodium decylbenzenesulfonate.

Suitable synergists may be included in the formulation and include, but are not limited to, alkali metal, ammonium and alkanolammonium salts of alkali polyphosphates, alkali metal silicates, alkaline earth metals and alkali metal carbonates, Aluminosilicate, polycarboxylate compound, ether hydroxy polycarboxylate, copolymer of maleic anhydride with ethylene or vinyl methyl ether, 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene-2,4,6-three Various alkali metal, ammonium and substituted ammonium salts of sulfonic acid, and carboxymethyl-oxysuccinic acid, polyacetic acid (eg, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and nitrilotriacetic acid), and polycarboxylates (eg, Benzoic acid, succinic acid, oxydisuccinic acid, polymaleic acid, benzene 1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid, carboxymethyloxysuccinic acid, and soluble salts thereof).

The composition may also optionally contain one or more copper, iron and/or manganese chelating agents and/or one or more dye transfer inhibiting agents.

Suitable polymeric dye transfer inhibiting agents include, but are not limited to, polyvinylpyrrolidone polymers, polyamine N-oxide polymers, copolymers of N-vinylpyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole, polyvinyl oxazole Pyridone and polyvinylimidazole or mixtures thereof.

The detergent formulation may also contain a dispersing agent, as needed. Suitable water-soluble organic materials are homo- or co-polymeric acids or salts thereof, wherein the polycarboxylic acid may comprise at least two carboxyl groups derived from each other separated by not more than two carbon atoms.

The anti-redeposition additives have physicochemical effects and include, for example, materials such as polyethylene glycol, polyacrylate, and carboxymethyl cellulose.

The composition may also contain perfume, as desired. Suitable perfumes are generally multicomponent organic chemical formulations which may contain alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, esters, ethers and nitriles, and mixtures thereof. Commercially available compounds that provide sufficient directness to provide residual aromaticity include Galaxolide (1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexa Glutamic acid (g)-2-benzopyran), new liraaldehyde (Lyral) (3- and 4-(4-hydroxy-4-methyl-pentyl)cyclohexene-1-carbaldehyde) and dragon Ambroxan ((3aR,5aS,9aS,9bR)-3a,6,6,9a-tetramethyl-2,4,5,5a,7,8,9,9b-octahydro-1H- Benzo[e][1]benzofuran). An example of a commercially available fully blended fragrance Amour Japonais supplied by AG.

Suitable optical brighteners are classified into several organic chemical species, the most common of which are stilbene derivatives, and other suitable species include benzoxazole, benzimidazole, 1,3-diphenyl-2-pyrazoline , coumarin, 1,3,5-triazin-2-yl and naphthyl imine. Examples of such compounds include, but are not limited to, 4,4'-bis[[6-anilino-4(methylamino)-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl]amino]stilbene- 2,2'-disulfonic acid, 4,4'-bis[[6-anilino-4-[(2-hydroxyethyl)methylamino]-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl Amino]stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid disodium salt, 4,4'-bis[[2-anilino-4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1, 3,5-triazin-6-yl]amino]stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid disodium salt, 4,4'-bis[(4,6-diphenylamino-1,3, 5-triazin-2-yl)amino]stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid disodium salt, 7-diethylamino-4-methylcoumarin, 4,4'-double [(2-anilino-4-morpholinyl-1,3,5-triazin-6-yl)amino]-2,2'-stilbene disulfonic acid disodium salt, and 2,5- Bis(benzoxazol-2-yl)thiophene.

The agents can be used alone or in any desired combination and can be added to the wash system at appropriate stages during the wash cycle to maximize their effects.

However, in either case, when the process of the invention is carried out in the presence of at least one additional detergent, the amount of the detergent required to achieve satisfactory cleaning performance is significantly reduced compared to the amount required in prior art methods. small. This in turn has a beneficial effect in reducing the amount of flush water that needs to be subsequently used.

The ratio of solid particulate cleaning material to substrate is typically between 0.1:1 w/w and 10:1 w/w, preferably between 0.5:1 w/w and 5:1 w/w, wherein Particularly advantageous results are achieved when the ratio is between 1:1 w/w and 3:1 w/w, and especially about 2:1 w/w. Thus, for example, in one embodiment of the invention, to wash 5 g of fabric, 10 g of polymeric particles coated with a surfactant are used. The ratio of solid particulate cleaning material to substrate is maintained at a substantially constant value throughout the wash cycle.

The apparatus and method of the present invention can be used in small scale or large scale batch processes and in both domestic and industrial washing processes.

As indicated above, the process of the invention is particularly suitable for cleaning textile fibers. However, the conditions used in such a cleaning system allow for the use of significantly reduced temperatures compared to the temperatures typically used in conventional wet cleaning of textile fabrics, and thereby provide significant environmental and economic benefits. Thus, typical procedures and conditions for a wash cycle require that the fabric be treated in a substantially sealed system, for example, at a temperature of 5 ° C to 95 ° C for a duration of 5 minutes to 120 minutes, in accordance with the method of the present invention. Then, additional time is required to complete the rinsing and bead separation stages of the overall process so that the total duration of the entire cycle is typically 1 hour. The preferred operating temperature range for the process of the invention is from 10 ° C to 60 ° C and more preferably from 15 ° C to 40 ° C.

The cycle of removing the solid particulate material can be carried out at room temperature, and it has been determined that the best results are achieved between 2 minutes and 30 minutes, preferably between 5 minutes and 20 minutes.

The results obtained are in good agreement with the results observed when using woven fabrics for conventional wet (or dry) washing procedures. The degree of cleaning and stain removal achieved by the fabric treated by the method of the present invention is extremely good, with particularly significant results being achieved for hydrophobic stains and aqueous stains and soils which are often difficult to remove. The energy requirements, total volume of water used, and detergent consumption of the process of the present invention are significantly lower than those associated with the use of conventional water washing procedures, which also provide significant advantages in terms of cost and environmental benefits.

Additionally, reusable polymer particles have been shown which allow the same solid particulate cleaning material to have multiple wash performance. Reusing the granules in this manner to repeat the washing procedure provides significant economic benefits and helps to achieve satisfactory results after multiple washes by process nature, depending on the continuous cleaning of the particulate cleansing material as part of the procedure. However, it is generally found that a slight degradation in performance is observed.

In a typical example of the operating cycle of the process of the invention, the initially added solid particulate cleaning material (about 43 kg) is added to the washing load of the contaminated substrate in a 98 cm diameter rotatably mounted cylindrical cage (15 kg). ), then start rotating the cage at about 40 rpm. Then, other solid particulate cleaning material (10 kg) is pumped through the separation member and control member to the rotatably mounted cylinder every 30 seconds for the duration of the entire wash cycle, which typically lasts about 30 minutes. In the shape of a cage. The system is thus designed to maintain substantially the same value of the solid particulate cleaning material in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage throughout the wash (about 43 for weight of 43 kg beads and 15 kg of clothing: 1) Rate to pump and add solid particulate cleaning material.

Thus, during the wash cycle, the solid particulate cleaning material continues to detach from the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via perforations and is recycled and added via the separation member and control member along with the fresh cleaning material. This process can be controlled manually or automatically. The rate at which the solid particulate cleaning material exits from the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is substantially controlled by its specific design. The main parameters in this regard include the size of the perforations, the number of perforations, and the pattern of perforations.

Generally, the size of the perforations is about 2-3 times the average particle size of the solid particulate cleaning material, which in a typical example produces perforations having a diameter of no more than 10.0 mm.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage (98 cm in diameter and 65 cm in depth) will be drilled to have a 8.0 mm diameter perforated strip from the front to the The strip is then alternated with the solid portion by a strip of about 9 cm so that only about 34% of the surface area of the cylindrical wall of the cage includes perforations. The perforations are preferably confined to the strips on the cylindrical wall of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, or alternatively selected to be evenly distributed over the cage wall rather than only on, for example, half of the cage.

The rate at which the solid particulate cleaning material exits from the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is also affected by the rotational speed of the cage, wherein a higher rotational speed increases the centripetal force to increase the tendency of the solid particulate cleaning material to exit the perforations. However, the higher cage rpm value also compresses the wash matrix to capture the wash material within its pleats. Therefore, it has been found that the optimum rotational speed is typically between 30 rpm and 40 rpm at a 98 cm cage diameter, or a G value of between 0.49 and 0.88. It was found that the maximum rotational speed to avoid capturing the beads in the garment was about 42 rpm (G = 0.97).

In addition, the moisture content of the wash also has an effect, wherein the moisturizing matrix tends to retain the cleaning material longer than the drier substrate. Thus, if desired, excessive wetting of the substrate can be used to further control the rate of separation of the solid particulate cleaning material.

After the washing cycle is completed, the addition of the solid particulate cleaning material to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is stopped, and the cage is rotated for a short time (about 2 minutes) at a low rpm (30-40 rpm; G = 0.49-0.88). To allow most of the solid particulate cleaning material to leave the cage. The cage was then spun at high speed (between 300 rpm and 800 rpm; G = 49.3-350.6) for about 2 minutes to extract some of the liquid and dry the substrate to some extent. The rotational speed is then returned to the same low rpm as in the wash cycle to complete the removal of the wash material; this typically takes about 20 minutes.

The process of the present invention has been shown to be particularly successful in removing the cleaning material from the washed substrate after washing, and the use of cylindrical polyester beads, and nylon beads (including nylon 6,6 polymer) has been shown to show beads. The potency was removed so that at the end of the bead separation cycle an average <20 beads/clothing remained in the wash load. Typically, this can be further reduced to an average of <10 beads/clothing, and in the optimized case of using a 20 minute separation cycle, an average <5 beads/clothing is typically achieved. After the bead removal operation, a series of rinses are performed in which additional water is sprayed into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage for complete removal of any additional detergent used in the cleaning operation. In this embodiment of the invention, a spray head is used which is mounted in the addition pocket on the pick and place door. It has been shown that the use of the spray head can better distribute the flushing water in the wash load. With this component, the total water consumption during the flushing operation can also be minimized (usually 3:1 flushing water per wash: cloth). Rotate the cage again at low speed during the addition of rinse water (30-40 rpm for the 98 cm diameter cage, G = 0.49-0.88), but after stopping this operation, increase the cage speed again to achieve a certain degree of drying of the substrate (300 -800 rpm, G=49.3-350.6). Subsequently, the rotational speed is reduced and returned to the speed of the wash cycle to eventually remove any remaining solid particulate wash material. These rinse and dry cycles (usually 3 times) can be repeated as often as needed.

Referring to the drawings provided herein, the apparatus of the present invention including the outer casing member (1) having a cylindrical cage in which a rotatably mounted rotator is mounted is shown in Figs. 1(a) and (b). (the perforation is not shown) the first upper chamber and the second lower chamber comprising the sedimentation tank (3) below the cylindrical cage. The apparatus additionally includes (as a first recirculation member) beads fed to the bead separation vessel (5) and an upright water pipe (4) comprising a filter material generally in the form of a wire mesh, and The bead delivery conduit (6) installed in the cage inlet (7) releases the bead release gate valve. The first recirculation member is driven by a bead pump (8). The additional recirculation member includes a return pipe (9) that allows water to return from the bead separation vessel (5) to the settling tank (3) under the influence of gravity. The device also includes a pick and place member shown as a loading door (10), but the cleaning material can be loaded into the drum (2).

Thus, Figure 1(a) depicts a portion of a first recirculation system in which solid particulate cleaning material in the form of beads is passed from a bead separation vessel (5) through a bead delivery conduit (6) and into a rotating drum (2) And Figure 1(b) shows the other part of the first recirculation system, wherein the bead pump (8) drives the solid particulate cleaning material comprising beads and water from the heated precipitation tank (3) through the beads and The upright water riser (4) reaches the bead separation vessel (5), and the separated water is returned from the bead separation vessel to the sedimentation tank under the influence of gravity via the return pipe (9). The main motor (20) of the device responsible for driving the drum (2) is also depicted.

In operation, the precipitation tank (3) and its contents (water and polymer beads) can be heated by a heater pad attached to the outer surface of the precipitation tank (3). The bead pump (8) passes the beads and water pump up through the riser (4) to the bead separation vessel (5), where the beads remain in the vessel (5) and the water discharged through the return pipe (9) Return to the sedimentation tank. The rigid filter material in the separation vessel causes the water carried by the beads to detach from the beads material, and the gate valve retains the beads in the container (5). The other beads can then be pumped into the separation vessel (5). The water is discharged from the vessel (5) and returned to the sedimentation tank (3). Upon opening the valve in the container (5), the beads pass through the valve and move down the bead delivery conduit (6) through the cage inlet (7) and into the drum (2). Cold water can be added to the contents of the bowl (2) via a cold water feed port located in the cage inlet (7). The washing load is placed in the drum (2) via the openable loading door (10), and the detergent is added to the system via the helium in the settling tank (3). The temperature of the system is monitored via a temperature probe preferably mounted in the bead delivery conduit (6), while the water pump circulates water around the precipitation tank (3).

Thus, the system provides a means to add polymer beads to the wash load, perform a wash cycle, and then separate the beads from the wash load after the wash cycle is completed. The washing process can be conveniently illustrated by illustrating a complete wash cycle.

Therefore, the polymer beads and the water required to achieve effective pumping are heated to the operating temperature in the precipitation tank (3) by a precipitation tank heating pad as needed, and water is used to recirculate the water through the beads. Make sure to achieve a uniform overall temperature. Immediately after the desired operating temperature is reached, the washing load is placed in the drum (2) and the loading door (10) is closed. Initially, cold water is added to the wash load via the cold water feed port to ensure that no stains (eg, eggs) are 'baked' onto the fabric upon introduction of the warm wash water and beads. A cleaning material such as a detergent may be added to the polymer beads in the precipitation tank, but is preferably added with water at this stage; the addition may be via a ruthenium attached to the door (10) (not shown) Or implemented via a bead separation vessel (5) and a bead delivery conduit (6). The wash load is gently agitated to evenly distribute the cold water in the load and completely wet the cloth. At a later stage during the wash cycle, additional wash material (where a typical example is a bleach) can be added along with the same additional components, as well as more water to be heated as needed.

After the beads and water in the settling tank reach the initial working temperature, the bead pump (8) pumps the mixture of beads and water up to the bead separation vessel (5). Excess water can be drained back to the precipitation tank (3) and the valve is then opened to release the beads into the drum (2) via the bead delivery conduit (6). This operation was repeated several times until the required amount of beads had been delivered into the drum (2).

The system then performs a wash cycle using a cage in a manner similar to a standard washing machine that rotates several turns in one direction at 30 rpm to 40 rpm (for a 98 cm cylindrical cage, G = 0.49-0.88) and then in the opposite direction Rotate a similar number of revolutions. Repeat this sequence for up to 60 minutes. During this time, the beads continue to fall through the cage perforations into the precipitation tank (3) and are pumped back to the bead separation vessel (5) by the bead pump (8), the beads being in the beads The separation vessel (if needed) is reintroduced into the drum (2) together with the fresh beads.

After the completion of the washing cycle, the introduction of the beads into the drum (2) is stopped while the beads remain free to perforate through the cage and fall into the sedimentation tank (3). After a brief high-speed rotation to remove some of the liquid from the drum and partially dry the wash matrix, a series of slow rotations and reversals are performed to promote the beads to fall into the drum (2) via the perforations and return to the sedimentation tank (3). . This process continues until virtually all of the beads have been removed from the drum (2). At any point during this bead separation sequence, air can be blown into the drum to break and cause waves of the cloth to aid in bead removal. The washing load can then be removed from the drum (2) via the loading door (10).

In the preferred bead removal sequence, first rotate the drum (2) for 2 minutes at 300 rpm to 800 rpm (for a 98 cm diameter drum, G = 49.3-350.6) and then rotate for 20 minutes at 30 rpm to 40 rpm. The direction of rotation is reversed approximately every 30 seconds during this period of time to redirect the substrate and cause the beads to detach from the matrix, thereby performing effective bead removal.

In a separate optional step, the wash load can be rinsed with water after the wash cycle. In other optional stages, after removal from the spin basket and transfer to the settling tank, the beads can be washed by washing the settling tank with clean water in the presence or absence of a detergent (e.g., a surfactant). Alternatively, the beads can be washed by washing separately in a drum after removing the washing load.

The invention will now be further elucidated with reference to the following examples and the accompanying description, but not by way of limitation.

Instance Example 1

Contamination of cotton woven fabrics (194 gm ^-2 , Whaleys, Bradford, UK) using coffee, lipstick, ball pen, ketchup, shoe polish, grass, vacuum dust, curry sauce and red wine according to the methods described below:

(i) coffee

10 g at 70 ° C Deeply roasted coffee powder is dissolved in 50 ml of distilled water. A 1 cm ³ aliquot of the resulting solution was applied to the fabric using a synthetic sponge in a 5 cm diameter round plastic template; the soiled fabric was then dried at ambient temperature (23 ° C) and then used prior to use. Store in the dark for 4 days to age the fabric.

(ii) Lipstick

Using a synthetic sponge A copper frost shade was applied to the fabric to provide even coverage within a 5 cm diameter round plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(iii) Ball pen

Use Black Paper in a 5 cm diameter round plastic template Flex Grip Ultra ballpoint pen to evenly cover the fabric. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(iv) ketchup

Using a synthetic sponge Ketchup was applied to the fabric to provide even coverage within a 5 cm diameter round plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(v) shoe polish

Using a synthetic sponge Black shoe polish is applied to the fabric to provide even coverage within a 5 cm diameter round plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(vi) grass

The grass was collected manually from the source of MG7 (National Vegetation Classification). 10 g of grass was cut with scissors and blended with 200 ml of tap water using an electronic blender. The mixture was then filtered using a metal sieve and the filtrate was used as a dyeing medium. This medium was applied to the fabric using a synthetic sponge to provide uniform coverage within a 5 cm diameter circular plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(vii) vacuum dust

Vacuum dust is manually collected from a general household vacuum bag. Mix 25 g of vacuum dust with 100 ml of tap water and use the mixture to contaminate the fabric. This mixture was applied to the fabric using a synthetic sponge to provide uniform coverage within a 5 cm diameter circular plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(viii) curry paste

Using a synthetic sponge The own brand of curry sauce is applied directly to the fabric to provide even coverage within a 5 cm diameter round plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

(ix) red wine

Using a synthetic sponge will The purchased "Spanish Red Wine" was applied directly to the fabric to provide even coverage within a 5 cm diameter round plastic template. The fabric is then aged according to the procedure detailed for the coffee.

Each of the stains (i) - (ix) was applied to a single (36 cm x 30 cm) section of the cotton fabric in the pattern shown in Figure 2 to prepare a standard stain set.

A wash test was then performed using a set of test and control conditions, as shown in Table 1. The tests involve the use of a preferred apparatus ("Xeros-Gen 1" XP1) as defined above in accordance with the method of the invention, using a standard household washing machine ( WM5120W, XP2 and XP3) were used to perform the control wash test. In both cases (XP1, XP2 and XP3), a standard stain group was added at a wash load of 1 kg, and a simulated sebum stain of 10 g/kg wash load was also included in the form of an impregnated cotton material (WFK SBL2004). This coating was used to better simulate the home washing environment, where the collar and cuff grease were the main stains (constituting about 80% of the total stain load). Sebum is derived from the sebaceous glands of the skin. XP1-based process using 24 kg of cotton and polyester / cotton at ambient temperature (measured as 15 ℃) hybrid fabric washload, 28.8 liters of wash water (i.e., 1.2 liters / kg wash load) and 65 kg INVISTA ^TM 1101 polyester beads Granules (ie 2.7 kg/kg wash load) were implemented. A fourteen 18 liter rinse cycle was used (300 rpm in a 98 cm diameter drum; G = 49.3). Therefore, the total water consumption (including washing and rinsing) is only 100.8 liters, or 4.2 liters/kg of washing load. The detergent used is 3.7 g/kg washing load of Unilever Persil Small & Biological fluid. The total cycle time is 95 minutes.

Family control (XP2 and XP3) using 4 kg wash load, even if prescribed The WM5120W is a 5 kg machine. This is a widely accepted average wash load size for the European home market, and this in turn makes this control more stringent. Increasing the liquid level in the drum produces greater mechanical action and better washing performance. It should also be noted that although XP2 is implemented at ambient wash temperature (measured at 15 °C), XP3 operates at higher wash temperatures (40 °C). In addition, both XP2 and XP3 are operated with a detergent load of 9.3 g/kg, which is significantly larger for XP1 and has a higher water consumption (washing and flushing water consumption is 56 kg, or 14.0 liters). /kg wash load). Finally, using the process of the present invention, the total process cycle time for XP2 and XP3 is 127 minutes, which is significantly longer for XP1. These parameters follow The cycle of the machine (40 ° C, cotton) was chosen to vary, and it also significantly increased the stringency of the control. It should be noted that The WM5120W does not have an environmental cycle in its standard program selection; therefore, in this case, the environment cycle is achieved by disconnecting the heater from the machine and re-running at 40 °C cotton cycle, so that XP3 and XP2 have the same cycle time. .

The test parameters are summarized in Table 1.

Color measurements were used to evaluate the degree of wash achieved. Using a Datacolor Spectraflash SF600 spectrophotometer interfaced to a personal computer, using a 10° standard observer to measure the reflectance value of the sample under the illuminant D ₆₅ (which contains the UV component and does not include the specular component); 3 cm view hole. Measurements were made using a single thickness of fabric. Obtain the CIE L* color coordinates for each stain, and then record the average as 'enzyme' (average of grass and ketchup stains), 'Oxidise' (coffee, red wine, and ballpoint average), And 'Particles' (average of vacuum dust, shoe polish and lipstick stains), which individually measure curry sauce stains. The sebum stain removal and the degree of redeposition on the fabric (ie, the background whiteness of each stain group) were also measured separately.

These results are shown in Figures 3 through 6, with higher values indicating better cleaning performance, or redeposition control. A comparison of XP1 and XP2 shows that for each stain type (Fig. 3), and when averaging all stains (Fig. 4), washing is performed in the apparatus of the present invention to obtain excellent results even in XP1 compared to XP2. The amount of detergent and water used in the machine has been reduced, and although the XP2 cycle time is longer. Sebum removal using the method of the invention is significantly better (Fig. 5), while redeposition is similar (Fig. 6).

A comparison of XP1 and XP3 shows that for each stain type (Fig. 3 - slightly finer particles), and when averaging all the stains (Fig. 4), washing is performed in the apparatus of the present invention to obtain comparable performance. Even when compared with XP3, the amount of detergent and water used in XP1 is reduced and the washing temperature is significantly lower, and the cycle time of XP3 is longer. Sebum removal and redeposition were similar (Figures 5 and 6, respectively).

In the description of the specification and the scope of the claims, the words "including" and "including" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to", and it is not intended to (and not) exclude other parts, additives, Component, integer or step. Throughout the description and the claims, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, unless the context requires otherwise, the specification is to be construed as a

Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or groups set forth in connection with the specific aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention are to be understood as being applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein, unless Compatible. All of the features disclosed in the specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) and/or all of the steps of any of the methods or processes disclosed herein may be combined in any combination, but such features and/or Except for at least some of the mutually exclusive combinations of steps. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the above embodiments. The present invention extends to any novel feature or any novel combination of the features disclosed in the specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or any novel steps extending to the steps of any method or process so disclosed. Or any novel combination.

The reader is interested in all papers and documents that are presented to the public at the same time as or in conjunction with the present application, and the contents of all such papers and documents are hereby incorporated by reference.

1. . . Outer casing

2. . . Rot

3. . . Precipitation tank

4. . . Beads and upright riser risers

5. . . Bead separation container

6. . . Bead delivery pipe

7. . . Cage entrance

8. . . Bead pump

9. . . Return pipe

10. . . Loading door

20. . . Main motor

Figures 1 (a) and (b) show the apparatus of the present invention and illustrate the aspect of the recirculating member of the apparatus.

Figure 2 shows a standard set of stains prepared when a series of stains are applied to a section of a cotton fabric.

Figure 3 shows the extent to which the method of the present invention is evaluated by color measurement when applied to various specific stains.

Figure 4 shows the degree of wash across all stains in accordance with the method of the present invention using color measurement evaluation.

Figure 5 shows the degree of sebum stain removal achieved by the method of the present invention using color measurement evaluation.

Figure 6 shows the degree of redeposition on the garment observed with the method of the present invention using color measurement evaluation.

1. . . Outer casing

2. . . Rot

3. . . Precipitation tank

4. . . Beads and upright riser risers

5. . . Bead separation container

6. . . Bead delivery pipe

7. . . Cage entrance

8. . . Bead pump

9. . . Return pipe

10. . . Loading door

Claims (22)

A device for cleaning a contaminated substrate, the device comprising: (a) an outer casing member having: (i) a first upper chamber in which is mounted a rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, and (ii) a second a lower chamber located below the cylindrical cage; (b) at least one recirculation member; (c) a pick and place member; (d) a pumping member; and (e) a plurality of delivery members, wherein the rotatably mounted The cylindrical cage includes a drum having perforated sidewalls, wherein up to 60% of the surface area of the sidewalls includes perforations, and the perforations include holes having a diameter of no more than 25.0 mm. The device of claim 1 wherein the pick and place member is closable to provide a substantially sealed system. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is horizontally mounted within the housing. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein no more than 50% of the side walls of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage comprise perforations. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the perforations have a diameter of from 2 mm to 25 mm. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage has a capacity in the range of 10 liters to 7,000 liters. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotation of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage is performed by using a drive member, wherein the operation of the drive member is performed by a control member as needed. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, which comprises a circulation member. The device of claim 8, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical side walls of the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage comprises a circulation member comprising a plurality of elongated projections spaced substantially perpendicularly from the inner surface Objects, wherein the protrusions additionally include an air amplifier as needed. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second lower chamber is used as a collection chamber for the cleaning medium and includes a magnifying sedimentation tank. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one recirculation member causes recirculation of the solid particulate material from the lower chamber to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage for reuse in a cleaning operation, and includes joining The second chamber is connected to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage. The device of claim 11, wherein the conduit comprises a separate member for separating the solid particulate material from water, wherein the separation member comprises a container above the cylindrical cage as desired, wherein the container comprises a filter material and the The filter material includes a wire mesh as needed. The device of claim 11, wherein the conduit includes, as desired, a control member adapted to control entry of the solid particulate material into the cylindrical cage, wherein the control member is optionally included in the feed member to be coupled to the interior of the cylindrical cage Valve, and wherein the feed member includes a feed conduit as desired. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first recirculation member comprises a pumping member. A device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a second recirculation member, wherein the second recirculation member allows water separated by the separation member to return to the lower chamber. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lower chamber includes an additional pumping member to facilitate circulation and mixing of its contents. A method of washing a contaminated substrate, the method comprising treating the substrate with a formulation comprising a solid particulate cleaning material and a wash water, wherein the method is carried out in a device according to any one of claims 1 to 16. A method of washing a contaminated substrate, the method comprising the steps of: (a) introducing a solid particulate cleaning material and water into the second lower chamber of the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 16; (b) Agitating and heating the solid particulate cleaning material and water; (c) loading at least one contaminated substrate into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via a pick and place member; (d) closing the pick and place member to provide substantially a system for sealing; (e) introducing the solid particulate cleaning material and water into the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage via a recirculating member; (f) operating the device for a washing cycle, wherein the rotatably mounting Rotating the cylinder and wherein the fluid and solid particulate cleaning material falls into the second lower chamber through the perforations in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage in a controlled manner; (g) operating the pumping member to deliver fresh solids a particulate cleaning material and recycling the used solid particulate cleaning material to the separation member; (h) operating the control member to add the fresh and recycled solid particulate cleaning material to the rotatable ground in a controlled manner Means of the cylindrical cage; and (i) if necessary, continue with step (f), (g) and (h) for the cleaning of contaminated matrix. The method of claim 17 or 18, further comprising a rinsing operation, wherein additional water is added to the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage, wherein a matrix treating agent is added to the rinsing water during the rinsing operation as needed and The matrix treating agent is selected from the group consisting of anti-redeposition additives, optical brighteners, perfumes, softeners, and starches. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein at least one additional detergent is added to the device, wherein the at least one additional detergent optionally comprises at least one detergent composition and the at least one detergent composition comprises a wash The net component and the post-treatment component, wherein the cleansing component comprises a surfactant, an enzyme, and a bleaching agent, and the post-treatment component comprises an anti-redeposition additive, a fragrance, and an optical brightener. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein the solid particulate cleaning material is subjected to a washing operation in the lower chamber or subjected to washing in the rotatably mounted cylindrical cage by washing the lower chamber with clean water. Operation, and the method additionally includes the separation and recovery of the solid particulate cleaning material and its reuse in subsequent washing. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein the at least one contaminated substrate comprises at least one textile fiber garment and the solid particulate cleaning material comprises a plurality of polymeric particles.