WO2023031606A1

WO2023031606A1 - Cellulosic pulp composition

Info

Publication number: WO2023031606A1
Application number: PCT/GB2022/052230
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Morris
Original assignee: Vernacare Limited
Priority date: 2021-09-02
Filing date: 2022-08-31
Publication date: 2023-03-09
Also published as: GB2610407A; GB202112533D0

Abstract

A detergent-resistant cellulosic pulp composition is disclosed, the composition being suitable for use in moulded articles, such as receptacles (e.g. wash basins). The cellulosic pulp composition comprises a biodegradable polyester-based detergent-proofing agent, thereby offering a wealth of environmental advantages over conventional fluorocarbon-based detergent-resistant moulded pulp articles.

Description

CELLULOSIC PULP COMPOSITION

INTRODUCTION

[0001] The present invention relates to cellulosic pulp compositions comprising a detergentproofing agent, as well as to moulded articles, particularly receptacles, made from them. The present invention also relates to processes for preparing moulded articles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] It is known to form disposable urine bottles, bed pans and the like from fibrous cellulosic material (e.g. paper pulp) which, after use, can be placed in a macerator to reduce the particles to a size where they can be discharged into the normal sewer system. It would also be desirable to form other articles, notably wash basins, from paper pulp so that they too are disposable. However, whilst the moulding of wash bowls and the like presents few technical problems, it has been found that the presence of soap or detergent in the water carried by the wash basin renders the moulded paper pulp article very absorbent, with the consequence that the article disintegrates rapidly, thereby rendering it unusable. For this reason, receptacles that are likely to come into contact with soap or detergent are usually formed from reusable plastics instead of paper pulp. These require thorough cleansing after each use, but even with very thorough cleaning, the risk of cross-contamination and cross-infection between patients remains.

[0003] Fluorocarbon-containing additives have been shown to confer detergent-proofing properties to moulded paper pulp articles. However, given that certain fluorocarbons are known to be highly persistent chemicals, the use of such additives in disposable articles poses environmental concerns, particularly when such articles are intended to be discharged into the normal sewer system after use.

[0004] The present invention was devised with the foregoing in mind.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a cellulosic pulp composition comprising:

85 - 97.5 wt.% of a fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of a water-proofing agent, and

0.5 - 7.0 wt.% of a detergent-proofing agent; wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters. [0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a moulded article comprising a cellulosic pulp composition of the first aspect of the invention.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a process for the preparation of a moulded article, the process comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension comprising: a fibrous cellulosic material, a water-proofing agent, and a detergent-proofing agent, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters; and b) moulding the aqueous suspension into a moulded article.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a moulded article obtained, directly obtained or obtainable by the process of the third aspect of the invention.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts comprising: a moulded article of the second or fourth aspects of the invention; and a detergent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Throughout the entirety of the description and claims of this specification, where subject matter is described herein using the term “comprise” (or “comprises” or “comprising”), the same subject matter instead described using the term “consist of’ (or “consists of” or “consisting of”) or “consist essentially of” (or “consists essentially of” or “consisting essentially of’) is also contemplated.

[0011] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0012] Features described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless clearly incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to the details of any of the specific embodiments recited herein. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0013] Unless otherwise specified, where the quantity or concentration of a particular component of a given product is specified as a weight percentage (wt.% or %w/w), said weight percentage refers to the percentage of said component by weight relative to the total weight of the product as a whole. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the sum of weight percentages of all components of a product will total 100 wt.%. However, where not all components are listed (e.g. where a product is said to “comprise” one or more particular components), the weight percentage balance may optionally be made up to 100 wt% by unspecified ingredients.

Cellulosic pulp composition

[0014] In a first aspect, the invention provides a cellulosic pulp composition comprising:

85 - 97.5 wt.% of a fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of a water-proofing agent, and

0.5 - 7.0 wt.% of a detergent-proofing agent; wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters.

[0015] Through rigorous investigations, the inventors have surprisingly determined that the ability of cellulosic pulp compositions to withstand the degradative action of soaps and detergents can be markedly improved by incorporating one or more biodegradable polyesters into the composition. The use of biodegradable polyesters in the place of fluorocarbon-containing additives presents a wealth of environmental advantages, particularly when the cellulosic pulp composition is designed to be discharged into the sewage system after use.

[0016] Within the cellulosic pulp composition, the fibrous cellulosic material, water-proofing agent and detergent-proofing agent are suitably present in an intimate and substantially homogenous mixture.

[0017] The detergent-proofing agent is suitably one or more biodegradable aliphatic polyesters.

[0018] The detergent-proofing agent may be one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(alkylene-succinate), a poly(alkylene-adipate), a poly(hydroxyalkanoate), poly(caprolactone), poly(lactide), poly(glycolide) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

[0019] Exemplary poly(alkylene-succinates) include poly(C2-C5alkylene-succinates), as well as copolymers thereof. Particularly suitably, the poly(alkylene-succinate) is poly(butylene- succinate). [0020] Exemplary poly(alkylene-adipates) include poly(C2-C5alkylene-adipates), as well as copolymers thereof. Particularly suitably, the poly(alkylene-adipate) is poly(butylene-adipate).

[0021] Exemplary poly(hydroxyalkanoates) include poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and poly(3- hydroxyvalerate), as well as a copolymer thereof (i.e. poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3- hyrdroxyvalerate).

[0022] The detergent-proofing agent is suitably one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(C2-C5alkylene-succinate), a poly(C2-Csalkylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof. More suitably, the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof. Even more suitably, the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene- succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate), poly(butylene- succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3- hyrdroxyvalerate).

[0023] Particularly suitably, the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene- succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate) and poly(butylene- succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

[0024] Particularly suitably, the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate) and poly(butylene- succinate-co-caprolactone).

[0025] Particularly suitably, the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate) and poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

[0026] It will be understood that the biodegradable polyesters described herein encompass linear and crosslinked versions thereof.

[0027] The cellulosic pulp composition may comprises 0.8 - 6.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent. More suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergentproofing agent. Most suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

[0028] The fibrous cellulosic material is suitably paper pulp. [0029] The cellulosic pulp composition may comprise 90.0 - 97.25 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material (e.g. paper pulp). More suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 91.5 - 97.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material. Even more suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 93.0 - 96.75 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material. Most suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 95.5 - 96.75 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material.

[0030] The water-proofing agent is suitably a wax and/or an alkyl ketene dimer.

[0031] The cellulosic pulp composition suitably comprises 1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent.

[0032] The cellulosic pulp composition may further comprise a biocide. The inclusion of a biocide may be advantageous where it is desirable to prevent the growth of microorganisms. The amount of biocide used is suitably sufficient to retard or eliminate the growth of microorganisms.

[0033] Suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises <2.0 wt.% of a fluorocarbon- containing compound. More suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises <1.0 wt.% of a fluorocarbon-containing compound. Even more suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition comprises <0.5 wt.% of a fluorocarbon-containing compound. Most suitably, the cellulosic pulp composition does not comprise any fluorocarbon-containing compounds.

[0034] Particular embodiments of the cellulosic pulp composition are outlined in the following numbered paragraphs 1) to 4):

1) The cellulosic pulp composition comprises:

90 - 97.25 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

0.8 - 6.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

2) The cellulosic pulp composition comprises:

91.5 - 97.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

3) The cellulosic pulp composition comprises:

93.5 - 96.75.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

4) The cellulosic pulp composition comprises:

93.5 - 96.75.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent. [0035] In any of the embodiments of numbered paragraphs 1) to 4), the fibrous cellulosic material is suitably paper pulp and the detergent-proofing agent is suitably one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene- succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate), poly(butylene- succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3- hyrdroxyvalerate). Most suitably, the fibrous cellulosic material is paper pulp and the detergentproofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene-succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate- co-butylene-adipate) and poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

Moulded articles

[0036] In a second aspect, the invention provides a moulded article comprising a cellulosic pulp composition of the first aspect of the invention.

[0037] The moulded articles of the invention may, in addition to be resistant to the degradative action of detergents and soaps, also be capable of maintaining their shape and rigidity when brought into contact with engine oil, cooking oil, paint and/or wallpaper paste.

[0038] The moulded article may be a receptacle. Most suitably, the moulded article is a wash basin. Wash basins will be familiar to one of ordinary skill in the art as taking the form of an opentopped bowl comprising a generally planar base and an upstanding peripheral enclosing wall, defining a containing volume.

[0039] The moulded article is suitably maceratable. The term “maceratable” means capable of being disposed of in a macerator, which reduces the particles of the article to a size where they can be discharged into the normal sewer system.

[0040] The moulded article is suitably a single-use article.

[0041] In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a process for the preparation of a moulded article, the process comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension comprising: a fibrous cellulosic material, a water- proofing agent, and a detergent-proofing agent, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters; and b) moulding the aqueous suspension into a moulded article. [0042] It will be understood that the fibrous cellulosic material, water-proofing agent, detergentproofing agent and moulded article of the third aspect may, as applicable, have any of those definitions outlined hereinbefore in relation to the first and second aspects.

[0043] The aqueous suspension suitably comprises >90 wt.% water. More suitably, the aqueous suspension comprises >95 wt.% water. Most suitably, the aqueous suspension comprises >97 wt.% water. The aqueous suspension may comprise <99 wt.% water.

[0044] The aqueous suspension may comprise 0.8 - 6.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent relative to the mass of dry fibrous cellulosic material. Suitably, the aqueous suspension comprises 1.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent relative to the mass of dry fibrous cellulosic material.

[0045] The aqueous suspension may further comprise one or more of a coagulant, a defoamer and a biocide.

[0046] Those of ordinary skill in the art will be familiar of techniques by which the aqueous suspension of step a) can be formed into a moulded article according to step b). Suitably, step b) involves moulding the aqueous suspension into a moulded article using a vacuum forming pulp moulding machine.

[0047] The process suitably further comprises the following additional step: c) drying the moulded article resulting from step b).

[0048] Step c) is suitably conducted at a temperature of 100 - 220°C for 2 minutes to 2 hours. Suitably, step c) is conducted at a temperature of 150 - 200°C for 5 to 15 minutes.

[0049] In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a moulded article obtained, directly obtained or obtainable by the process of the third aspect of the invention.

Kit of parts

[0050] In a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts comprising: a moulded article of the second or fourth aspects of the invention; and a detergent.

[0051] The kit may further comprise instructions for how to use the detergent in the moulded article (e.g. wash basin). For example, the instructions may specify a given volume of water into which the detergent should be mixed prior to adding the resulting mixture to the moulded article. Alternatively, the instructions may specify filling the moulded article with a given volume of water prior to mixing in the detergent.

[0052] Suitably, the quantity of detergent is sufficient for a single use of the moulded article. [0053] The term “detergent” used herein refers to a surfactant-containing product formulated to clean a surface. Non-limiting examples of a detergent include soaps, shampoos, shower gels, washing up liquid, laundry detergent and other household cleaning products.

[0054] The following numbered statements 1 to 49 are not claims, but instead define particular aspects and embodiments of the claimed invention:

1. A cellulosic pulp composition comprising:

85 - 97.5 wt.% of a fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of a water-proofing agent, and

2. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 1, wherein the fibrous cellulosic material, water-proofing agent and detergent-proofing agent are present in an intimate and substantially homogenous mixture.

3. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 1 or 2, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable aliphatic polyesters.

4. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 1, 2 or 3, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(alkylene-succinate), a poly(alkylene-adipate), a poly(hydroxyalkanoate), poly(caprolactone), poly(lactide), poly(glycolide) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

5. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, wherein the poly(alkylene-succinate) is a poly(C2-C5alkylene-succinate) or a copolymer thereof.

6. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 5, wherein the poly(C2-Csalkylene- succinate) is poly(butylene-succinate).

7. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, 5 or 6, wherein the poly(alkylene- adipate) is a poly(C2-Csalkylene-adipate) or a copolymer thereof. 8. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 7, wherein the poly(C2-C5alkylene-adipate) is poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate).

9. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 4 to 8, wherein the poly(hydroxyalkanoate) is selected from the group consisting of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) poly(3- hydroxyvalerate) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hyrdroxyvalerate).

10. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(C2- Csalkylene-succinate), a poly(C2-Csalkylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

11. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene- succinate), poly(butylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

12. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene- succinate), poly(butylene-succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene- adipate) and poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

13. The cellulosic pulp composition of statement 4, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene- succinate-co-caprolactone) and poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

14. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the composition comprises 0.8 - 6.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

15. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the composition comprises 1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

16. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the composition comprises 1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

17. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the fibrous cellulosic material is paper pulp. 18 The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 90.0 - 97.25 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material.

19. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 91.5 - 97.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material.

20. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 93.0 - 96.75 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material.

21. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 95.5 - 96.75 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material.

22. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the water-proofing agent is a wax and/or an alkyl ketene dimer.

23. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, wherein the cellulosic pulp composition comprises 1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent.

24. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 1-13, 17 and 22, wherein the composition comprises:

90 - 97.25 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

0.8 - 6.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

25. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 1-13, 17 and 22, wherein the composition comprises:

91.5 - 97.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

26. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 1-13, 17 and 22, wherein the composition comprises:

93.5 - 96.75.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent. 27. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 1-13, 17 and 22, wherein the composition comprises:

93.5 - 96.75.0 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

28. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of statements 1-13, 17 and 22, wherein the composition comprises:

94.5 - 96.8 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

29. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding statements, further comprising a biocide.

30. A moulded article comprising a cellulosic pulp composition as defined in any one of the preceding statements.

31. The moulded article of statement 30, wherein the moulded article is a receptacle.

32. The moulded article of statement 31 , wherein the receptacle is a wash basin.

33. The moulded article of statement 30, 31 or 32, wherein the article is a single use article.

34. The moulded article of any one of statements 30 to 33, wherein the article is maceratable.

35. A process for the preparation of a moulded article, the process comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension comprising: a fibrous cellulosic material, a water-proofing agent, and a detergent-proofing agent, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters; and b) moulding the aqueous suspension into a moulded article.

36. The process of statement 35, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises >90 wt.% water. 37. The process of statement 35, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises >95 wt.% water.

38. The process of statement 35, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises >97 wt.% water.

39. The process of any one of statements 35 to 38, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises 0.8 - 6.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent relative to the mass of the dry fibrous cellulosic material.

40. The process of any one of statements 35 to 38, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises 1.5 - 2.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent relative to the mass of the dry fibrous cellulosic material.

41. The process of any one of statements 35 to 40, wherein the aqueous suspension further comprises one or more of a coagulant, a defoamer and a biocide.

42. The process of any one of statements 35 to 41 , further comprising the following step: c) drying the moulded article resulting from step b).

43. The process of statement 42, wherein step c) is conducted at a temperature of 100- 220°C for 2 minutes to 2 hours.

44. A moulded article obtained, directly obtained or obtainable by the process of any one of statements 35 to 43.

45. A kit of parts comprising: a moulded article as defined in any one of statements 30 to 34 and 44; and a detergent.

46. The kit of parts of statement 45, further comprising instructions for how to use the detergent in the moulded article.

47. The kit of parts of statement 46, wherein the instructions specify a given volume of water into which the detergent should be mixed prior to adding the resulting mixture to the moulded article. 48. The kit of parts of statement 46 or 47, wherein the instructions specify filling the moulded article with a given volume of water prior to mixing in the detergent.

49. The kit of parts of any one of statements 45 to 48, wherein the quantity of detergent is sufficient for a single use of the moulded article.

EXAMPLES

[0055] Examples of the invention will now be described, for the purpose of illustration only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Fig. 1 shows Wash Basins 3 (left) and 4 (right) during soapy water testing.

Fig. 2 shows Wash Basin 9 prior to soapy water testing.

Laboratory scale

Preparation of moulded wash basins

[0056] Moulded Wash Basins 1-8 were prepared according to the following protocol:

1) Take 1500ml of pulp stock suspension containing approximately 2.4% paper fibre, 1.25% PAC 500 (coagulant) 7.9% DYMAR 902/17 (sizing/water proofing agent) and 0.8% defoamer.

2) Add detergent-proofing agent at ratio of 1 wt.% (Wash Basins 1 and 2), 4.5 wt.% (Wash Basins 3 and 4), 10 wt.% (Wash Basins 5 and 6) or 15 w.t% (Wash Basins 7 and 8) relative to the mass of dry paper fibre. The detergent-proofing agent used is Aquaspersions 270 (an aqueous dispersion of poly(butylene-succinate-co-caprolactone) containing 40 wt.% polymeric solids) or Aquaspersions 272 (an aqueous dispersion of poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate-co- caprolactone) containing 40 wt.% polymeric solids).

3) Add 1500ml of process water.

4) Stir the mixture for 30 seconds.

5) Produce 2 sample mouldings using a modified Tappi Handsheet former connected to vacuum to replicate the moulding process of a vacuum forming Pulp moulding machine.

6) Pass the samples twice through a drying oven, each pass taking approximately 9 minutes. The drying oven contains 4 zones, the first 3 zones being set at 180°C and the fourth being ambient air. [0057] Moulded Wash Basins 1-8 had the following compositions:

Table 1 - Compositions of Wash Basins 1-8 prepared on laboratory scale

Testing

[0058] Wash Basins 1 -8 were tested for their ability to withstand soapy water for 2 hours. Soap was added to 500 mL 45°C water at a ratio of 1:40 parts by volume. The soapy water was then added to the wash basin and observed. The results are reported below:

Table 2 - Ability of Wash Basins 1-8 to withstand soapy water for 2 hours

[0059] Figure 1 depicts Wash Basins 3 (left) and 4 (right) during testing.

Manufacturing scale

Preparation of moulded wash basins [0060] Wash Basins 9 and 10 were prepared on a manufacturing scale, using identical ratios of ingredients to Wash Basins 3 and 4, according to the following protocol:

1) 425 kg of over issue paper is added to a pulper along with 7600 L of process water. The pulper then beats the pulp for 3 minutes.

2) The pulp is then discharged from the pulper through a screening process (to remove large contamination (e.g. plastic, wood) into Tank 1.

3) Once all the pulp has been discharged a further 2800 litres of water is flushed through the screen into Tank 1 (giving a pulp concentration of 4%).

4) Tank 1 then feeds Tank 2 (pulp concentration of 2%), using a closed loop automatic level control system, which is maintained to 95% full.

5) From Tank 2, the pulp is pumped through another screen to remove any further contamination (e.g. staples). The screened pulp then passes through conduit that contains a consistency transmitter. Through a PLC control loop, water is added via a proportional valve to the inlet of the 2% pump to maintain the set consistency level. Coagulant is dosed into Tank 2 at a ratio of 1.2 wt.% relative to the mass of dry pulp. The coagulant is also used to stabilize the pH of the system.

6) The pulp from Tank 2 feeds Tank 3 and Tank 4 (pulp concentrations of 1 % and 1.6% respectively). Using a closed loop automatic level control system, the tank levels are maintained to 95% full. Prior to the pulp entering the tanks it passes through a flow meter. Using data from the flow meter and consistency transmitter, the sizing (waterproofing) agent is added proportionally at a ratio of 7.5 wt.% relative to the mass of dry pulp as it enters Tanks 3 and 4.

7) The pulp is pumped to the production machines. As it leaves the tank more water is added and controlled using another consistency transmitter and proportional valve. Valves then meter pulp into the machine chests.

8) At the machine, extra dilution water is added, along with the detergent-proof agent. A peristaltic pump feeds the detergent-proofing agent into the dilution line through a non-return valve at an addition rate of 4.5 wt.% relative to the mass of dry pulp.

9) Mouldings are then produced and then passed twice through a drying oven, each pass taking approximately 9 minutes. The drying oven contains 4 zones, the first 3 zones being set at 180°C and the fourth being ambient air.

[0061] Moulded Wash Basins 9-10 had the following compositions:

Table 3 - Compositions of Wash Basins 9-10 prepared on manufacturing scale

[0062] Figure 2 depicts Wash Basin 9.

Testing

[0063] Wash Basins 9- 10 were tested for their ability to withstand soapy water for 2 hours. Soap was added to 500 mL 45°C water at a ratio of 1:40 parts by volume. The soapy water was then added to the wash basin and observed. The results are reported below:

Table 4 - Ability of Wash Basins 9-10 to withstand soapy water for 2 hours

[0064] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for the purpose of reference and illustration, various modifications will be apparent to a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cellulosic pulp composition comprising:

85 - 97.5 wt.% of a fibrous cellulosic material,

0.5 - 2.5 wt.% of a water-proofing agent, and

2. The cellulosic pulp composition of claim 1, wherein the fibrous cellulosic material, waterproofing agent and detergent-proofing agent are present in an intimate and substantially homogenous mixture.

3. The cellulosic pulp composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable aliphatic polyesters.

4. The cellulosic pulp composition of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(alkylene- succinate), a poly(alkylene-adipate), a poly(hydroxyalkanoate), poly(caprolactone), poly(lactide), poly(glycolide) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

5. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of a poly(C2-C5alkylene-succinate), a poly(C2-Csalkylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

6. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene-adipate), poly(hydroxybutyrate), poly(hydroxyvalerate), poly(caprolactone) and a copolymer of two or more thereof.

7. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate), poly(butylene-succinate-co-caprolactone), poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate) and poly(butylene-succinate-co-butylene-adipate- co-caprolactone).

8. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters selected from the group consisting of poly(butylene-succinate-co-caprolactone) and poly(butylene-succinate-co- butylene-adipate-co-caprolactone).

9. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 0.8 - 6.5 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

10. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 1.0 - 5.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

11. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

12. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fibrous cellulosic material is paper pulp.

13. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproofing agent is a wax and/or an alkyl ketene dimer.

14. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises:

94.5 - 96.8 wt.% of the fibrous cellulosic material,

1.0 - 2.0 wt.% of the water-proofing agent, and

1.2 - 3.0 wt.% of the detergent-proofing agent.

15. The cellulosic pulp composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a biocide.

16. A moulded article comprising a cellulosic pulp composition as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

17. The moulded article of claim 16, wherein the moulded article is a receptacle.

18. The moulded article of claim 17, wherein the receptacle is a wash basin.

19. The moulded article of claim 16, 17 or 18, wherein the article is a single use article and/or is maceratable.

20. A process for the preparation of a moulded article, the process comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous suspension comprising: a fibrous cellulosic material, a water-proofing agent, and a detergent-proofing agent, wherein the detergent-proofing agent is one or more biodegradable polyesters; and b) moulding the aqueous suspension into a moulded article.

21. The process of claim 20, wherein the aqueous suspension comprises 0.8 - 6.0 % of the detergent-proofing agent relative to the mass of the dry fibrous cellulosic material.

22. The process of claim 20 or 21 , wherein the aqueous suspension further comprises one or more of a coagulant, a defoamer and a biocide.

23. The process of claim 20, 21 or 22, further comprising the following step: c) drying the moulded article resulting from step b).

24. A kit of parts comprising: a moulded article as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19; and a detergent.

25. The kit of parts of claim 24, further comprising instructions for how to use the detergent in the moulded article.

19