WO2017064527A1

WO2017064527A1 - Cleaning formulations with improved performances

Info

Publication number: WO2017064527A1
Application number: PCT/IB2015/001884
Authority: WO
Inventors: Fernanda GRIGOLETTO; Arthur MALHEIRO; Sergio Martins
Original assignee: Rhodia Poliamida E Especialidades Ltda
Priority date: 2015-10-15
Filing date: 2015-10-15
Publication date: 2017-04-20
Also published as: AR106327A1; WO2017064551A1; UY36945A

Abstract

The present invention relates to cleaning formulations, in particular for cleaning hard surfaces and textiles. The present invention more specifically focuses on the use of a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol to improve the cleaning performances and the fragrance solubilization of cleaning formulations containing it. The cleaning formulations of the present invention comprise the said composition comprising (2- (heptan-3-yl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, and at least one of the following components : a surfactant, a basifying agent, a cosolvent, a fragrance and water.

Description

CLEANING FORMULATIONS WITH IMPROVED PERFORMANCES

The present invention relates to cleaning formulations, in particular for cleaning hard surfaces and textiles. The present invention more specifically focuses on the use of a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol to improve the cleaning performances and fragrance solubilization of cleaning formulations containing it. The cleaning formulations of the present invention comprise the said composition comprising (2- (heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, and at least one of the following components: a surfactant, a basifying agent, a cosolvent, a fragrance and water.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A large variety of cleaning formulations intended for cleaning hard surfaces, such as the surfaces usually encountered in kitchens and bathrooms, is known in the field. Formulations for laundry detergence are also known.

These formulations usually contain surfactants, solvents, sequestrants, alkaline agents, solubilizers, preserving agents, bactericides, fragrances, dyes and water.

Laundry detergent compositions also generally contain: builders, anti-redeposition agents, enzymes, active oxygen bleachers, optical brighteners, foam regulators and processing aids. The solvent contained in these formulations is important in the final application of this type of product because it impacts directly on cleaning performance, ease of use, toxicity and evaporation of the product after applying it.

Solvents are also of fundamental importance in formulations of this type, since they act with the surfactants in reducing the surface tension of water and solubilizing the water-soluble and water-insoluble soiling materials. Moreover, as they are amphiphilic molecules, they act as micelle promoters, which reduce the repulsion of the hydrophilic heads of the surfactants. They also control evaporation and have the capacity of acting as hydrotropes by changing the polarity of the suspension/solution. Furthermore, solvents and alkaline agents increase the transparency of the system.

While a number of solvents for cleaning formulations are available and in commercial use, there remains a need in the art for new solvents that offer a favorable combination of water solubility, solubilization activity, volatility, toxicity, environmental profile and cost.

In addition, since many cleaning formulations are maintained at basic pH, there is a need for solvents that are chemically and thermally stable under basic conditions.

Further, there is an increasing need for "bio-sourced" solvents that can be used as replacements for petroleum-sourced solvents. Few bio-sourced solvents are available that can meet the increasingly demanding technical requirements for cleaning formulations. Even where such solvents are available, the solvents can have various drawbacks. For example, d-limonene, which has been used as a replacement for chlorinated solvents in degreasing applications, has a strong odor, is combustible, and is classified as an irritant and sensitizer. Similarly, ethanol is a versatile solvent that is readily available from bio-based sources, but its high flammability limits its use in solvent applications. A further drawback of these solvents is that the chemical and physical properties of the solvents can only be adjusted to a limited extent.

There accordingly remains a need in the art for alternative solvents for cleaning formulations, in particular bio-sourced solvents that offer an advantageous combination of solubilization activity, stability under basic conditions, volatility, toxicity, environmental profile, and cost. It would be advantageous if the bio-sourced solvent could provide cleaning formulations that meet one or more customer needs, such as appropriate viscosity, low odor, good solubilization activity, low toxicity and excellent cleaning performance. The inventors hereof have discovered that the use of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol in cleaning formulations allows to increase significantly the cleaning performances of said cleaning formulations. It also has the advantage of enhancing the fragrance solubilization of said cleaning formulations. Indeed, surprisingly, it has been found that the use of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, which presents a low odor, as solvent or carrier in combination with a fragrance component allows to control the volatility of such a fragrance compound in the formulation. It also enhances the odor of the fragrance, due to its low odor.

A further advantage is that (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is stable under basic conditions. Moreover, (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol can be derived from biological feedstock.

By "increase the cleaning performances", it is understood that the composition according to the invention is able to improve solubility of organic or inorganic substances like soil, dirt, oil, grease, polymer, wax, polish, ink, adhesive, mastic, photoresist, sealant, asphalt, sap, paint, varnish, or combinations thereof, on a substrate being a hard surface, such as tiles, metals, concrete, plastic and others, or a soft surface like leather or fabrics made of synthetic or natural fibers.

By "increase" or "improve", it means an increase of at least 5%, preferably at least 10% of the cleaning pathway ratio (Y/X) between a formulation that contain (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol compared to a formulation that does not contain (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (X) according to the evaluation method of the experimental part.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the use of a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol in a cleaning formulation, in particular to increase the cleaning performances and/or to promote the fragrance solubilization in cleaning formulations. (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is prepared by reaction between glycerol and 2- ethyl-hexanal, which are both commercially available.

The present invention is also directed to cleaning formulations comprising a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and at least one of the following components:

a. a surfactant,

b. a basifying agent,

c. a co-solvent,

d. a fragrance,

e. water.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the use of a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol in a cleaning formulation, in particular to increase the cleaning performances and/or to promote the fragrance solubilization. According to the invention, the cleaning formulation can be a hard surface cleaning formulation, such as dish washing formulation, glass cleaning formulation, oven cleaning formulation, concrete cleaning formulation, form cleaning formulation and industrial removing formulation, and also soft surface cleaning formulation, such as laundry formulation for leather or fabrics made of synthetic or natural fibers. Fabrics include woven or non-woven fabrics, for example carpet or textile. Synthetic fibers include polyester, polyamide, and others; natural fibres include cotton, silk, wool and others. This cleaning formulation is used for removing of substances like paints, graffiti, mold, inks, sealants, adhesives, mastic, photoresist, wax, polishes, asphalt, paraffin, sap, oil, grease or a combination thereof. The (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, which can come from renewable resources, has excellent combination of properties for use in these applications, including solubilizing activity, low flammability, non-corrosiveness, and low odor. The cleaning formulations can be in the form of a solid, a gel, a liquid, an emulsion. A single formulation can have more than one use, for example a single formulation can be used for cleaning both hard surfaces and soft surfaces. Non-limiting examples of surfaces that may be treated using the formulations of the present invention are surfaces of refractory materials such as glazed and unglazed tiles, bricks, porcelain, ceramic and stone, marble, granite, stones and other surfaces; glass, metals, plastics, for example polyester, vinyl, glass fibre, Formica®, Corian® and other known hard surfaces used in cupboards and work surfaces and also wall and floor surfaces.

The formulations of the present invention also find a use in the cleaning of metallic surfaces outside and inside kitchen and bathroom appliances, for example the metal surfaces of kitchen appliances, including, without being limited thereto, polished, chromium-plated, burnished surfaces or mat or brushed-metal surfaces as found on kitchen work surfaces, electrical appliance cases, the surfaces of appliances including external appliance surfaces such as doors, and also internal surfaces such as the internal spaces of dishwashers, ovens and cooking hobs.

The formulations of the present invention afford the cleaning and reduction of stains, tarnishing or other discolorations of metal, such as those caused by the accumulation of soiling and grease or the oxidation of treated metal surfaces. Non-limiting examples of metals that may be mentioned include aluminium, copper, steel, stainless steel, brass and metal alloys that may comprise one or more of the above mentioned metals, and also non- metallic substrates with a metallic or metallized surface.

The formulations of the present invention, when used in laundry detergency, afford removing stains and avoiding soils and dirt re-deposition without damaging the textile. The fibres of textiles used can include one or more of the materials listed: polyester, aramid, cotton, acrylic, wool, nylon, silk, Lycra®, polyurethane.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is present in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 30 % by weight, preferably from 0.1 to 10 % by weight even more preferably from 0.2 to 5% by weight and notably from 0.2 to 2% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

In a first embodiment, the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol further comprises a glycerol ketal derivative of formula I below:

wherein

R1 and R2, independently from one another, are selected in the group consisting of: a linear or branched C1-C12 alkyl, a C4-C12 cycloalkyl or an aryl.

R3 is H, a linear or branched alkyl, a cycloalkyl or a -C(=0)R4 group, with R4 being a linear or branched C1-C4 alkyl or a C5-C6 cycloalkyl.

In a preferred embodiment, R1 and R2, independently from one another, are selected in the group consisting of: methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, n-propyl, isobutyl, n-butyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl or phenyl.

Advantageously, in formula I above R3 is H or a -C(=0)R4 group, with R4 being methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, n-propyl, isobutyl, n-butyl or tert-butyl. One preferred embodiment is when R1 and R2 are methyl and R3 is H. In this case, the compound is commercially available, for example under the name Augeo® Clean Multi, Augeo® SL191 or Solketal. This compound can be synthesized by reaction between glycerol and acetone, under well-known classical conditions.

In another embodiment, R1 is methyl, R2 is isobutyl and R3 is H. In this case, the compound is commercially available, for example under the name Augeo® Clean Plus. This compound can be synthesized by reaction between glycerol and methyl-isobutyl ketone, under well- known classical conditions.

In a third embodiment, R1 is methyl, R2 is phenyl and R3 is H. In this case, the compound is commercially available, for example under the name Augeo® Film HB. This compound can be synthesized by reaction between glycerol and acetophenone, under well-known classical conditions.

In a fourth embodiment, R1 is isopropyl and R2 and R3 are H. In this case, the compound is named Augeo® Iso. This compound can be synthetized by reaction between glycerol and isobutyraldehyde, under well-known classical conditions. Another possibility is to have R1 and R2 are methyl and R3 is a -C(=0)R4 group, with R4 being methyl. In this case, the compound is commercially available, for example under the name Augeo® ACT. This compound can be synthesized by transesterification of Solketal with an alkyl acetate under well-known classical conditions. Glycerol can be obtained as a coproduct from biodiesel production during the transesterification of triglycerides. The compounds of formula I have very good performance in the application, low odor and no toxicity to humans or environment. In addition, their use induces no security issues because of their high flash point. Advantageously, the glycerol ketal derivative of formula I is chosen from the group comprising: 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2,2-diisobutyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-isobutyl-2-methyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol,2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-butyl- 2-ethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol and 2-methyl-2- phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-acetate and mixtures thereof.

Advantageously, the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is a blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and at least a glycerol ketal derivative chosen from the following group: 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2,2-diisobutyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-isobutyl-2-methyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-isopropyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-butyl-2-ethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- methanol and 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- acetate and mixtures thereof.

According to this embodiment, the blend can comprise from 15 to 95% by weight, preferably from 25 to 50% by weight of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, based on the total weight of the blend.

The preferred blends according to the invention are the following:

- A blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane- 4-methanol, preferably comprising from 20 to 50% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and from 50 to 80% of 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, and even more preferably a blend comprising from 30 to 40% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and from 60 to 70% of 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, - A blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane- 4-acetate, preferably comprising from 30 to 50% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and from 50 to 70% of 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-acetate, and even more preferably a blend comprising from 35 to 45% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and from 55 to 65% of 2,2-dimethyl-l ,3-dioxolane-4-acetate,

- A blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol and 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, preferably comprising from 20 to 45% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, from 20 to 45% of 2- methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol and from 20 to 40% of 2-isopropyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol, and even more preferably a blend comprising from 30 to 40% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, from 30 to 40% of 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol and from 55 to 65% of 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol,

- A blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- methanol, preferably comprising from 40 to 60% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol, and from 40 to 60% of 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, and even more preferably a blend comprising from 45 to 55% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and from 45 to 55% of 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol,

- A blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3- dioxolane-4-methanol and 2,2-dimethyl-l , 3-dioxolane-4-acetate, preferably comprising from 60 to 80% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, from 2 to 20% of 2-methyl- 2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol and from 10 to 30% of 2,2-dimethy!-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- acetate, and even more preferably a blend comprising from 65 to 75% of (2-(heptan-3-yl)- 1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, from 5 to 15% of 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- methanol and from 15 to 25% of 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-acetate.

The above % are in % by weight based on the total weight of the blend. According to a second embodiment, the composition consists in (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol. In other words, (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is the sole component of the composition. The cleaning formulation of the invention generally further comprises at least one of the following components:

a. a surfactant,

b. a basifying agent,

c. a co-solvent,

d. a fragrance,

e. water.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cleaning formulation comprises at least 50%, preferably at least 75% and even more preferably at least 90% by weight of water based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

In any case, the amount of water is the amount that is necessary to achieve 100% of the weight of the formulations of the present invention.

A wide variety of surfactants may be used in the formulations of the present invention, such as non-ionic, anionic, cationic, zwitterionic and amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof. Examples of such surfactants are described in the publication by McCutcheon: Emulsifiers & Detergent, North American Edition (1995).

According to the invention; the surfactant is a non-ionic, an anionic and/or cationic surfactant, advantageously it is a mixture of non-ionic and anionic surfactant.

A surfactant or combination of surfactants can be present in order to improve wetting of the surface to be cleaned and to hasten penetration of the active components. In addition, a surfactant can facilitate water rinsing and water clean-up of the substrate after removal of the soil or coating. The appropriate non-ionic surfactants comprise alkylamine oxides, for example C8-20 alkyldimethylamine oxides, alkylphenol ethoxylates, linear and branched alcohol ethoxylates, carboxylic acid esters, alkanolamides, alkylpoiyglycosides, copolymers of ethylene oxide/propylene oxide, etc. Among these surfactants, linear and secondary alcohol ethoxylates, octylphenol and nonylphenol ethoxylates, alkanolamides and alkylpoiyglycosides are particularly preferred. A combination comprising at least one of the foregoing can be used. The zwitterionic/amphoteric surfactants that are useful comprise alkylaminopropionic acids, alkyliminopropionic acids, imidazoline carboxylates, alkylbetaines, sulfobetaines and sultaines. A combination comprising at least one of the foregoing can be used.

The cationic surfactants that are useful comprise primary amine salts, diamine salts, quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated amines. A combination comprising at least one of the foregoing can be used.

The anionic surfactants that are useful, which are preferably used only in combination with a nonionic surfactant, comprise carboxylic acid salts, alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, secondary n-alkanesulfonates, a-olefin sulfonates, dialkyl oxydiphenylene sulfonates, sulfosuccinate esters, isethionates, linear alcohol sulfates such as alkyl sulfates, for instance sodium lauryl sulfate, and linear ethoxyalcohol sulfates, water- soluble salts of alkylbenzene sulfonates. A combination comprising at least one of the foregoing can be used.

The formulations typically comprise from 0.1% to 35% by weight of surfactants, preferably the surfactant is present in an amount of 1 to 15% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation. A basifying agent can also be present in the formulation. The basifying agent used in the formulations of the present invention is any chemical compound or group of compounds that are capable of increasing the pH of the medium of the formulation to above 7. Suitable examples that may be mentioned, without this list being limiting, include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, trisodium phosphate, and mono-, di- or triethanolamine, and mixtures thereof. A suitable amount of basifying agent may be necessary to bring the pH to 8-12. Advantageously, the basifying agent is a solution of NaOH, KOH or NH₄OH.

When present, the basifying amount is from 0.5 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

In the formulations of the invention, a co-solvent can be present and it is advantageously chosen from dioxolane derivatives, glycol ethers especially glycol mono-, di- or triethers, alcohols such as C1-C6 alcohols and glycols such as C2-C6 glycols.

Among the glycol mono-, di- or triethers that are useful in the present invention, examples that may be mentioned, without this list being limiting, include:

ethylene glycol monobutyl (or n-butyl or t-butyl) ether

ethylene glycol monoethyl ether

- ethylene glycol monopropyl (or isopropyl) ether

ethylene glycol monophenyl ether

ethylene glycol monobenzyl ether

ethylene glycol hexyl ether

diethylene glycol monoethyl ether

- diethylene glycol mono-n-butyl ether

diethylene glycol diethyl ether

diethylene glycol dimethyl ether

ethylene glycol diethyl ether ethylene glycol dibutyl ether

ethylene glycol methyl ether acetate

ethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate

ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate

- propylene glycol monobutyl (or isobutyl or t-butyl) ether

propylene glycol monoethyl ether

propylene glycol monomethyl ether

propylene glycol mono-n-propyl ether

propylene glycol monophenyl ether

- propylene glycol dimethyl ether

dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, and

triethylene glycol monobutyl ether.

The C1-C6 alcohols may in particular be ethanol, propanol or isopropanol, and/or mixtures thereof.

The C2-C6 glycols may in particular be ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or hexylene glycol, and/or mixtures thereof.

The ratio of composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol to cosolvent can vary widely depending on the cosolvent, and the intended use, and can be from 1 :99 to 99:1 , specifically from 10:90 to 90:10, more specifically from 20:80 to 80:20, from 30:70 to 70:30, or from 40:60 to 60:40, all by volume. It is to be understood that a single additive can have more than one function, and that characterization of an additive as having that function (e.g. as a cosolvent) does not exclude the additive from performing another function. The concentrations of the individual additives of the cleaning formulations can be varied as depending upon components of the cleaning formulation, the type of material to be removed, and the rate at which material removal is to be effected. In a preferred embodiment, the co-solvent is present in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

A fragrance composition can also be present in the formulation. A fragrance can be composed by components extracted from plants and flowers, synthetic recreations (synthetic duplications of natural fragrances) and/or synthetic innovations (variations of naturally- occurring material which have unique olfactory properties). Those components can be alcohols, terpenics molecules, hydrocarbons, esters, ethers and ketones with different carbon chain length.

We can cite essential oils, aroma chemicals, perfumes, and the like, for example, ambergris, borneol and its esters, carvone, castoreum, civet, cinnamaldehyde, citrals, clove oil, galbanum, jasmine, limonene, linalool and its esters, pinenes (alphas, betas, etc.), rosemary oil, sandalwood, terpineols, terpinenes, and the like, benzaldehyde, benzoin, isoamyl acetate (banana); isobutyl propionate (rum); methyl anthranilate (grape); benzyl acetate (peach), dipentene, methyl butyrate (apple); ethyl butyrate (pineapple); octyl acetate (orange); n- propyl acetate (pear); ethyl phenyl acetate (honey), and the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the fragrance is present in an amount of 0.5 to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation. The formulations of the present invention optionally comprise other ingredients such as, without this list being limiting, a plurality of abrasive particles, an organic amine, antioxidant, biocide, colorant, corrosion inhibitor, defoamer, dye, enzyme, light stabilizer, odor masking agent, plasticizer, preservative, rust inhibitor, surfactant, thickener, soil suspending agent, builder or chelating agent, bleach, bleach activator, bleach stabilizer, and pH control agent, hydrotrope, fabric softening ingredient, pH adjusters like buffers, fragrance solubilizers, viscosity modifiers, optical brighteners, opacifiers, antistain agents, hydrotropes, and sequestrants. The total amounts of these optional additives are generally less than 2% by weight relative to the total weight of the formulation. Exemplary plasticizers include phthalate esters, for example dibutyl phthalate, diethylhexyl phthalate, and diethyl phthalate; aliphatic diesters, for example dioctyl adipate; terephthalate esters, for example dioctyl terephthalate; citrate esters, for example acetyl triethyl citrate and acetyl tri-n-butyl citrate; ketal based plasticizers, such as those described in PCT Application WO 2010/151558, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing. When used, the plasticizer is present in an amount from about 0.1 to about 10 weight percent, based on the total weight of the formulation. Thickeners can be present to adjust the rheological properties of the cleaning formulations. For example, the removal of partially dried paint removal from automotive paint spray booths is generally performed by spraying a cleaning formulation such as coatings remover onto the spray booth. The coatings remover must be thin enough to spray easily but must rapidly build in viscosity under low shear conditions to effectively cling to vertical surfaces. A higher viscosity formulation is generally desired if the coatings remover is to be painted on while a low viscosity formulation containing no added thickener can be used where the coated substrate is to be soaked in a tank. Thickeners can also serve to increase the effectiveness of the coatings removers by decreasing the rate of evaporation of the volatile components after application to a coated substrate. Use of a thickener in the formulation enables the formulation to be applied onto vertical surfaces without any attendant dripping or run-off therefrom, and also inhibits dissipation of the formulation into porous substrates such as brick or concrete.

Exemplary thickeners are natural or synthetic clays including bentonite, hectorite, smectite and other silicates such as available grades of BENTOLITE™, CLAYTONE™ and GELWHITE™ bentonites, PERMON™ smectites, CLOISITE™ magnesium aluminum silicates, LAPONITE™ silicates and GARAMITE™ silicates (all available from Southern Clay Products, Inc.) and available grades of OPTIGEL™ bentonites, hectorites, smectites and other clays (all from Sued-Chemie Group); stearates of organoclay compounds such as tetraalkyi ammonium bentonite; gums and other polysaccharides such as carrageenan gum (e.g., GENUVISCO™ X-906-02 (from CP Kelco)), cassia gum, diutan gum (e.g., GEOVIS™ XT, KELCO-CRETE™ 80, KELCO-CRETE 200 and KOC617 (all from CP Kelco)), gellan gum (e.g., KELCOGEL™, KELCOGEL F and KELCOGEL LT 100 (all from CP Kelco)), guar gum, Gum Arabic, Gum Tragacanth, locust bean gum, whelan gum and Xanthan gum (e.g., KELZAN™, KELZAN AR, KELZAN ASX, KELZAN ASX T, KELZAN CC, KELZAN HP, KELZAN RD, KELZAN S, KELZAN ST, KELZAN T, KELTROL™, KELTROL T and KELTROL TF (all from CP Kelco) and VANZAN™ and VANZAN D (both from R.T. Vanderbilt Co.)); hydrocolloids such as NOVEGUM™ C865, NOVEGUM C866 and NOVEGUM G888 (all from Noveon, Inc.); alginates such as agar; cellulose ethers such as ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, and other alkyl or hydroxyalkyl cellulose ethers, commercially available, e.g., as METHOCEL™ K15MDGSE, METHOCEL K4MDGSE, METHOCEL 311 , METHOCEL F4M PRG and METHOCEL OS (all from Dow), XDS 8898.5 cellulose ether (from Dow), and KLUCEL™ H, KLUCEL M or KLUCEL G (all from Ashland, Inc.); acrylic acid homopolymers or copolymers, e.g., those which can be neutralized with a salt including associative or non- associative thickeners such as ACUSOL™ 801s, ACUSOL 810, ACUSOL 81 OA, ACUSOL 820, ACUSOL 823 and ACQSOL 830 acrylate polymers (all from Rohm and Haas Co.) or those which can be crosslinked (e.g., with a polyalkenyl polyether) including CARBOPOL™ 674, CARBOPOL 676, CARBOPOL ETD 2691 , CARBOPOL ETD 2623, CARBOPOL EZ- 3, CARBOPOL EZ-3A, CARBOPOL EZ-4 and CARBOPOL ULTREZ™ 21 (all from Noveon, Inc.); PEMULEN™ 1622 copolymer (from Noveon, Inc.); polyethylene oxides (e.g., high molecular weight polyethylene oxides) such as polyethylene glycols and methoxypolyethylene glycols; polyvinyl alcohols; polyvinyl pyrrolidone; starches; polyurethanes including RHEOLATE™ 266 (from Elementis Specialties, Inc.), and available grades of OPTIFLO™ associative thickeners (all available from Sud-Chemie Group); and methyl vinyl ether/maleic anhydride copolymers. Other possible thickeners include hydrophobe-modified ethoxy urethane (HEUR) thickeners, hydrophobe-modified alkali soluble emulsion (HASE) thickeners, hydrophobe-modified hydroxyethyl cellulose (HM- HEC) thickeners, and HEUR-ASE combination thickeners. A combination comprising at least one of the foregoing can be used.

The thickener can be used in an amount from about 0.1 to about 30 weight percent, specifically about 2 to about 20 weight percent, and most specifically about 3 to about 10 weight percent, based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

A detergency builder is commonly present in laundry detergents, hard surface cleaner products and dishwashing liquids, and can be present in cleaning formulations of this disclosure. Examples of such builders include N-diethyleneglycol-N,N-diacetic (DID A) acid polyphosphates (e.g., potassium pyrophosphate), nitrilotriacetates (e.g., Na3NTA), sodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), sodium ethylenetriaminepentaacetate, sodium citrate, sodium carbonate, sodium metasilicate and zeolites, e.g., zeolites having a cation exchange capacity (measured as CaC03) of 200 mg or greater per gram of zeolite.

Enzymes such as proteases and amylases are also frequently present in cleaner formulations, especially laundry detergent products and prewash products.

The cleaning formulation can contain a bleach such as sodium hypochlorite, sodium perborate, diperoxydodecanedioic acid, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, m- chloroperoxybenzoic acid and peroxide based bleaches. An advantage of this disclosure is that the (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is stable in bleach solutions, and thus can add good solvency for oily soils into a bleach-containing formulation. A bleach-containing formulation of the disclosure can also contain one or more bleach activators such as tetra acetyl ethylene diamine and sodium nonanoyloxybenzene sulfonate.

The cleaning formulation can further contain one or more soil suspending agents such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose; one or more bleach stabilizers such as sodium diethylenetriamine- pentamethylenephosphonate and sodium diethyl enetriaminopentaacetate; one or more hydrotropes such as sodium toluene sulfonate, sodium cumene sulfonate and potassium xylene sulfonate; one or more fabric softening ingredients such as smectite clay and tallowdimethylammonium chloride.

A particularly preferred cleaning formulation according to the invention, comprises, in addition of the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol :

a. From 0.1 to 35% by weight of surfactant,

b. From 0.5 to 10% by weight of basifying agent,

c. From 0.1 to 10% by weight of co-solvent

d. From 0.5 to 5% by weight of fragrance,

e. at least 50% by weight of water based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

In a specific embodiment the cleaning formulation is a liquid laundry detergent that may be for hand or machine washing, and which comprises 50 to 95% by weight water; 0.1 to 25% by weight of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol; 0.1 to 35 % by weight of a surfactant; and a builder, a chelating agent, a chlorine bleach, a non-chlorine bleach, an abrasive, an anti-deposition agent, a brightening agent, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing. In liquid laundry products, the (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol may perform any or all of several functions, such as solubilizing or emulsifying the surfactant or other ingredients and functioning as an active cleaning agent.

For example, a liquid laundry formulation may contain, as percentages of the total formulation weight:

a) water: 50-95%;

b) (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol: 0.1-30%, more typically 1-25%, specifically 1- 10%;

c) one or more surfactant(s): 0.1-35%, specifically 1-35%, still more specifically 1-10%, but in some cases more specifically from 15- 35%; the surfactants advantageously being (1) at least one anionic surfactant, (2) a nonionic surfactant, (3) a mixture of at least one nonionic surfactant and at least one anionic surfactant, (4) one or more of an beta alkyl glycoside, an alkyl betaine or a sulfo succinate salt, or (5) a mixture of (4) with (1), (2) or (3);

h) one or more builders or chelating agents, particularly a chelating agent such as EDTA or DIDA: 0-30%, specifically, if present, 0.1-30%, more specifically, if present, from 1-25% and still more specifically, if present, from 1-10%;

i) one or more bleaches, including, for example, a chlorine bleach such as sodium hypochlorite or a non-chlorine bleach: 0-10%, specifically, if present 0.1-5%

o) one or more abrasives: 0-30% specifically if present 1-20%

p) one or more anti-redeposition additives, such as carboxymethylcellulose salts and cellulose acetate polymeric agents, 0-5%, specifically if present 0.1 to 2%; and

q) brightening agents, including optical brightening agents, fluorescent brightening agents and fluorescent whitening agents, including, for example, sulfonated triazine-stilbenes, coumarins, imidazolines, diazoles, triazoles, benzoxazolines and biphenyl stilbenes, 0-3%, specifically if present 0.1 to 1%.

In addition, a liquid laundry product may contain any of optional components for the cleaning formulations as described herein singly or in any combination of any two or more of them. Any or all of optional components may be omitted in any particular liquid laundry formulation. Some exemplary liquid laundry formulations in accordance with the disclosure follow. The indicated percentages are weight percents based on the total formulation weight. The function of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol in liquid laundry formulations is similar to those described before with respect to hard surface cleaners.

Aqueous Liquid Laundry Detergent

Sodium hydroxide 0-1%

Sodium chloride about 1%

Nonionic surfactant (e.g., ethoxylated alcohol) 0-20%, specifically 0.1-6%

Anionic surfactant (e.g., benzenesulfonic acid, alkylated) 1-20%, specifically 1-10 %

Builder(s) 0-10%t

Anti-redeposition agent 0-1% Proteolytic enzymes 0-2%

Brightener (fluorescing agent) 0-1 %

Buffer(s) 0-5%

(2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol 0.1-25%

Water (balance of total formulation)

Aqueous Laundry Stain Remover

Proteolytic enzyme 0 - < 1 %

Surfactant 10-20%

Chelating agent 0.5-1.5%

(2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol 1-10%

Water (balance of total formulation)

Aqueous Dry-cleaning Formulation

Water 60-95%

Polyacrylates 0.2-0.5%

Mixed glycol ethers 0-30%

(2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol 0.1-25%

Surfactant(s)> 0.1%

1 ,2-octanediol 0-5%

Any of the above mentioned liquid laundry formulations, can be prepared in concentrated form by reducing the amount of water, and correspondingly increasing the concentration of at least the surfactant, and advantageously the concentration of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4- yl)methanol and the surfactant.

In another specific embodiment the cleaning formulation is a hard surface cleaner having a general formulation as is known in the art, and which can be formulated for industrial, institutional, office or, home use. These can be formulated as, for example, general purposes hard surface cleaners, toilet cleaners, shower/bath/tile cleaners, disinfectants, soap scum removers, mildew removers, glass/mirror cleaners, or stain removers. Many of these cleaners are formulated as dilute solutions or emulsions, and many are applied by spraying. In hard surface cleaning formulations, the (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol can perform any or all of several functions, such as (1) soil dissolution and/or removal; (2) compatibilization of ingredients, particularly sparingly water-insoluble ingredients into water; (3) formation of a cosolvent mixture in which one or more other ingredients are dissolved or dispersed, (4) elimination or reduction of surfactants and/or organic solvents or others.

When used with cosolvents or other components, the cleaning formulations can be provided as a concentrate. The concentrates are usually diluted in water for use as a working water- based cleaning formulation.

The cleaning formulations can alternatively be formulated in other forms useful for removal or cleaning formulations, for example gels, wipes, aerosols, and the like. The removal formulations can be formulated in gel form by the addition of an effective amount of a gelling agent such as fumed silica, organic gums, polymers, copolymers, paraffin wax, bentonite clay, and cellulose ethers such as methyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose commercially available as METHOCEL® cellulose ethers, from Dow Chemical. Wipes are generally a natural or synthetic fabric piece impregnated with the gel or liquid removal formulation. When used as an aerosol, the cleaning formulations are formulated under pressure with a propellant as is known in the art.

A method of cleaning, for example, removing a substance such as a coating, soils and/or stains from a substrate comprises contacting the substance with a formulation comprising a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, said method comprising at least one of the foregoing under conditions that effect the removal, for example for a time effective to dissolve and/or lift the substance; and separating the dissolved and/or lifted material from the substrate. As used herein, "dissolved" includes partial dissolution of a material, often referred to as softening, such that the material can be further removed from the substrate by rinsing or mechanical action. Of course, the cleaning formulation can also be at least partially removed by separating the material. The cleaning formulations can be used to remove a wide variety of substances, generally those soluble or softenable by organic solvents. Examples include materials such as soils, stains, grease, inks for all types of substrates, including paper, wood, plastic, metal, textiles, ceramics, stone, skin, and for indoor or for outdoor use; adhesives and sealants, for example silicone, polyurethane, epoxy, polyvinyl acetate (including copolymers with ethylene), phenolic, amino resin, cyano acrylate, polyester, polyamide, rubber (styrene- butadiene and natural) or acrylic adhesives and sealants; mastics; photoresists; waxes, for example floor wax or bees wax; asphalts; saps (which as used herein includes pitches, rosins, tars, and natural resins such as tree sap); residual materials left in forms or molds, for example polymers such as alkyds, polyacetals, polyacrylates, polyacrylics, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyesters, polyethers, polyethylenes, polyimides, polystyrenes, polyurethanes, polyvinyls, silicones, natural and synthetic rubbers, and the like, and polymer additives; greases, for example silicone and petroleum-based greases; oils, including machine oil; and paints, finishes, and other coatings, for example, alkyd enamels, acrylic enamels, polyesters, polyurethanes, epoxy resin coatings, latex paints, oil-based paints, shellacs, phenolic coatings, gum varnishes, silicone coatings, polyvinyls, polyvinyl cinnamates, polyamides, polyimides, polyalkyl acrylates, polyalkyl methacrylates, drying oils, polyvinyl acrylates, and cellulosic resins.

The substrates that are treated with the cleaning formulations are reasonably resistant to the cleaning formulations, including natural and synthetic fabrics, wood, cardboard, and coated paper, especially if treated with a wax or other protective material, glass, thermoset resins, thermoplastic resins, ceramic, stone, masonry substrates, cement, or metals (e.g., aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, stainless steel, or galvanized steel).

Although the methods of contacting the surface with the cleaning formulation can be accomplished in a number of ways, for example, in aerosol form or other spraying means such as by standard spray nozzles; brush application; dipping; coating; application in gel form such as from a squeeze bottle or brush, and the like, but immersion and spraying can be specifically mentioned. If the surface to be cleaned is readily accessible, then spraying can be used. The spraying pressure will usually be from 1.3 bars to 8.0 bars absolute pressure. The mechanical force of the impinging removal formulation facilitates removal of the substance. On the other hand, if the surface to be cleaned has recesses or other shapes that are not readily accessible, immersion can be used. Of course, both methods can be used in combination and/or varied in ways apparent to those skilled in the art. During or after contacting, mechanical action, such as scraping, peeling, rubbing, wiping, and the like can be employed to increase contact and/or aid in dissolution and/or lifting.

The contact time needed to produce an effective degree of dissolution and/or lifting of the substance from a substrate will depend on the nature and thickness of the substance, the formulation of the cleaning formulation, including the ingredient concentrations, the temperature of the formulation, and other factors. With some substances and under some conditions, contact times of a few minutes (e.g., 2-3 minutes) to an hour can be sufficient. Operating temperature when using the removal formulations can be from 0 to 180 degrees centigrade or higher, specifically 15 to 90 degrees centigrade, or 21 to 55 degrees centigrade The treatment is most conveniently carried out at ambient temperature, but lift time can be shortened as desired by heating the cleaning formulations and/or substrate. Heating can be achieved by local application of heat such as with a heat gun, or more general application of heat, such as with an electric heater, infrared heater, and the like. It is to be understood however, that those skilled in the art can determine optimal conditions for particular removal applications by minimal experimentation. Higher temperatures generally increase the rate at which the substance is removed from the surface.

Specific language is used in the description so as to facilitate the understanding of the principle of the invention. It should, however, be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is envisaged by the use of this specific language. Modifications, improvements and perfections may especially be envisaged by a person skilled in the technical field concerned, on the basis of his own general knowledge. The term "and/or" includes the meanings "and", "or" and also all the other possible combinations of elements connected to this term.

Other details or advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly in the light of the examples given below, purely for indicative purposes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation 2(Y) vs formulation 3.2(X).

FIG. 2 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation 1.1 (Y) vs formulation 4.1 (X). FIG. 3 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation 1.2(Y) vs formulation 3.2(X).

FIG. 4 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation 5.2(Y) vs formulation 2(X).

FIG. 5 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation5.1 (Y) vs formulation 3.1(X).

FIG. 6 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation5.1(Y) vs formulation 4.2(X).

FIG. 7 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation6(Y) vs formulation 3.1 (X). FIG. 8 is a picture of the cleaning test performed for formulation6(Y) vs formulation 4.2(X).

EXPERIMENTAL SECTION

PREPARATION OF (2-(HEPTAN-3-YL)-1 ,3-DIOXOLAN-4-YL)METHANOL (OCTO)

A 1 L reaction flask, equipped with distillation column was charged with 196.22 g glycerol (2.13 mol), 298.66 g 2-ethyl-hexanal (2.32 mol - commercial) and 0.75 g methanesulfonic acid 70 wt% solution in water (0.16 % by weight of the total charge). The mixture was refluxed with agitation and water formed in the reaction was removed on the top of the distillation column. The completion of the reaction was indicated by the quantity of water formed. After 4 h, glycerol was completely converted. Subsequently, catalyst was neutralized and the reaction mass was distilled under vacuum. After removal of non-reacted 2-ethyl- hexanal, the desired product, isomer mixture of 2-ethyl-hexanal glycerol acetal, was recovered and purified by distillation. A yield of 83% based on glycerol is obtained. The product boils at 131-141°C at 14 mbar. The product was obtained with high purity, 99.6 wt%. FORMULATIONS

The formulations 1.1 to 6 described in table 1 below have been prepared.

Table 1 - formulations (% w/w)

OCTO = (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol

ACM = 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol

ACP = 2-isobutyl-2-methyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol

Blend 1 = 65% by weight of 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol and 35% by weight of (2- (heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol). Both components were mixed together with the weight indicated above, and then were added to the formulation.

Blend 2 = 35% by weight of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol), 35% by weight of 2- methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol (Augeo Film HB) and 30% by weight of 2- isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol. All the components of the blend were mixed together with the weight indicated above, and then were added to the formulation

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION - CLEANING WITHOUT EFFORT

The test for evaluating the cleaning efficacy and the materials for performing the test are described below.

Standard Soil Composition

Weigh the components listed on Table 2 at the same recipient and stir until complete solubilization of the carbon black.

Table 2. Standard soil composition

Substrate Preparation

Wash a white tile with mild soap (Extran) and then rewash with a lot of water to take off soap residuals. Put it on the oven at 1 10°C so it can dry during 24 hours. After taking the tile from the oven let them exposed to air for, at least, 6 hours at room temperature.

Separate the tile in two equal areas by dividing it in the middle, with a tape.

Standard Soil Application

• Roll for soil application: Brand "Tigre" (3,5 cm of diameter and 9,0cm of length)

- Substrate: White tile with dimensions of 19,8 cm x 29,5cm.

Using a syringe, add 1 mL of soil in the center of one of the sides of the tile. Use the roll to fill the area in a way that the soil will be uniformly applied in the tile. Repeat this procedure for the other side of the tile.

Cleaning procedure

This test has to be made right after the soil application. Put the tile into a 45° bracket. Pipette 5mL of the formulation to be tested in a becquer, and positioning it at the top of the tile, let the product flow into an uniform velocity.

Visual Evaluation

This test is comparative, so the standard product has to be tested on the left side and the product you want to compare it with, on the right side of the tile.

To verify the cleaning performance, you need to evaluate the opening of the cleaning path for each formulation. The bigger the opening, the better the cleaning performance.

Numerical Evaluation

To analyze the cleaning performance using numbers, we measure the opening of the cleaning path above the tile using a scale/ruler. The cleaning performance is directly connected with the opening of the cleaning path left by each formulation.

After measuring X (for formulation A) and Y (for formulation B) you can to calculate Y/X, and there is three options:

Y/X < 1 formulation A has better performance

Y/X = 1 -> both products have same performance

Y/X > 1 -^formulation B has better performance

PERFORMANCE RESULTS - CLEANING WITHOUT EFFORT

The cleaning tests have been performed twice for each formulation. The pathways for all the formulations indicated in Table 1 have been measured. In Table 3 below, the average value of the cleaning pathway has been reported:

Table 3 - results

Conclusion on OCTO alone:

1.2(Y) vs 2(X): Y/X = 1.03 - OCTO is working at lower concentration

2(Y) vs 3.2(X): Y/X = 1.12 - at same concentration OCTO is better than ACM - fig. 1

1.1 (Y) vs 3.1 (X): Y/X = 4.48 - at lower concentration OCTO is better than ACM

1.1 (Y) vs 4.1 (X): Y/X = 1.93 - at same concentration OCTO is better than ACP - fig. 2 1 1(Y) vs 4.2(X): Y/X = 1.87 - at lower concentration OCTO is better than ACP

1.2(Y) vs 3.2(X): Y/X = 1.15 - at lower concentration OCTO is better than ACM - fig. 3

Conclusion on blends:

5.2(Y) vs 2(X): Y/X = 0.96 - Blend 1 equivalent to OCTO alone - fig. 4

5.1 (Y) vs 3.1 (X): Y/X = 3.08 - at same concentration Blend 1 better than ACM - fig. 5 5.1 (Y) vs 4.2(X): Y/X = 1.28 - at same concentration Blend 1 better than ACP - fig. 6 5.2(Y) vs 3.2(X): Y/X = 1.08 - at same concentration Blend 1 better than ACM

6(Y) vs 3.1 (X): Y/X = 3.28 - at same concentration Blend 2 better than ACM - fig. 7 6(Y) vs 4.2(X): Y/X = 1.37 - at same concentration Blend 2 better than ACP - fig. 8

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION - SOLUBILIZATION OF FRAGRANCES

The solubility of different fragrances has been measured visually at 25°C.

The solubility is measure for a mixture 80% by weight of Augeo OCTO 20% by weight of Fragrance.

PERFORMANCE RESULTS - SOLUBILIZATION OF FRAGRANCES

The results are given in table 4 below:

Table 4 - solubility of fragrances at 25°C

Claims

1. Use of a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol in a cleaning formulation.

2. Use according to claim 1 , wherein the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is present in an amount of 0.1 to 30% by weight, preferably from 0.1 to 10 % by weight even more preferably from 0.2 to 5% by weight and notably from 0.2 to 2% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

3. Use according to claim 1 or 2, to increase the cleaning performances of the cleaning formulation.

4. Use according to claim 1 or 2 to promote the fragrance solubilization in cleaning formulations.

5. Use according to claim 1 to 4, wherein the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol further comprises a glycerol ketal derivative of formula I:

wherein

Ri and R₂, independently from one another, are selected in the group consisting of: a linear or branched C1-C12 alkyl, a C4-C12 cycloalkyl or an aryl.

R₃ is H, a linear or branched alkyl, a cycloalkyl or a -C(=0)R group, with R₄ being a linear or branched C1-C4 alkyl or a C5-C6 cycloalkyl.

6. Use according to claim 1 to 5, wherein the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol is a blend of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and at least a glycerol ketal derivative chosen from the following group: 2,2-dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- methanol, 2,2-diisobutyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-isobutyl-2-methyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4- methanol, 2-isopropyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2-butylⁱ2-ethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2- phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol and 2-methyl-2-phenyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, 2,2- dimethyl-1 ,3-dioxolane-4-acetate and mixtures thereof.

7. Use according to claim 6, wherein the blend comprises from 15 to 95% by weight, preferably from 25 to 50% by weight of (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, based on the total weight of the blend.

8. Use according to claim 1 to 4, wherein the composition consists in (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol.

9. Use according to claim 1 to 8, wherein the cleaning formulation further comprises at least one of the following components:

a. a surfactant,

b. a basifying agent,

c. a co-solvent,

d. a fragrance,

e. water.

10. Use according to claim 1 to 9, wherein the cleaning formulation comprises at least 50% by weight of water based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

11. Use according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the surfactant is a non-ionic, an anionic and/or cationic surfactant.

12. Use according to claims 9 to 11 , wherein the surfactant is present in an amount of 0.1% to 35% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

13. Use according to claim 9 to 12, wherein the basifying agent is a buffer solution or a solution of NaOH, KOH or NH₄OH.

14. Use according to claim 9 to 13, wherein the basifying agent is present in an amount of 0.5 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

15. Use according to claim 9 to 14, wherein the co-solvent is chosen from dioxolane derivatives, glycol ethers, alcohols and glycols.

16. Use according to claim 9 to 15, wherein the co-solvent is chosen from the group comprising glycol mono-, di- or triethers, C1-C6 alcohols and C2-C6 glycols.

17. Use according to claim 9 to 16, wherein the co-solvent is present in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

18. Use according to claim 9 to 17, wherein the fragrance is present in an amount of 0.5 to 5% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

19. Use according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning formulation is a hard surface cleaning formulation, such as dish washing formulation, glass cleaning formulation, oven cleaning formulation, concrete cleaning formulation, form cleaning formulation and industrial removing formulation, or a soft surface cleaning formulation, such as laundry formulation for leather or fabrics made of natural or synthetic fibres.

20. Use according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning formulation is a used for removing paints, graffiti, mold, inks, sealants, adhesives, mastic, photoresist, wax, polishes, asphalt, paraffin, sap, oil, grease or a combination thereof.

21. Cleaning formulation comprising a composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3- dioxolan-4-yl)methanol and at least one of the following components:

a. a surfactant,

b. a basifying agent,

c. a co-solvent,

d. a fragrance,

e. water.

22. Cleaning formulation according to claim 21 , comprising from 0.1 to 30% by weight of the composition comprising (2-(heptan-3-yl)-1 ,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol, based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.

23. Cleaning formulation according to claim 21 or 22, comprising :

a. From 0.1 % to 35% by weight of surfactant,

b. From 0.5 to 10% by weight of basifying agent,

c. From 0.1 to 10% by weight of co-solvent,

d. From 0.5 to 5% by weight of fragrance,

e. at least 50% by weight of water

based on the total weight of the cleaning formulation.