WO2025224271A1

WO2025224271A1 - Aqueous composition

Info

Publication number: WO2025224271A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/061278
Authority: WO
Inventors: Natalija Smolko Schwarzmayr; Albertus Jacobus Maria Bouwman; Olof Borgland
Original assignee: Nouryon Chemicals International BV
Current assignee: Nouryon Chemicals International BV
Priority date: 2024-04-26
Filing date: 2025-04-24
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-26

Abstract

An aqueous composition includes a fatty alcohol ethoxylate having a polydispersity index of less than about 1.15, present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05 to about 60 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition, and having the following formula: R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)_nCH₂CH₂OH, wherein R is a branched alcohol moiety having from about 8 to about 12 carbon atoms and a degree of branching of from about 0.8 to about 2.5 and n is a number of from about 2 to about 6; a water soluble hydrotrope present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.01 to about 40 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; a chelating agent present in the composition in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; and water.

Description

AQUEOUS COMPOSITION CROSS-REFERENCE TO REEATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/639,028 filed April 26, 2024, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to aqueous compositions that are low foaming. More particularly, this disclosure relates to aqueous compositions that include fatty alcohol ethoxylates that have low poly dispersity indices.

BACKGROUND

[0003] It is well known that an amount of foam that is created during a cleaning process is an important factor for many cleaning formulations. Extensive and stable foams can result in problems in automated cleaning systems. For example, excessive foam can interfere with the proper functioning of automated machines. In dishwashers, excessive foam can cause leaks or overflow, leading to water damage. Similarly, in washing machines, excessive foam can result in poor rinsing and cleaning performance. Moreover, stable foams require much more water to be used for rinsing which reduces sustainability and increases costs.

[0004] Foam residues left behind by cleaning products can also accumulate in machines over time, leading to clogs in hoses, filters, and drainage systems. This buildup can impede water flow and decrease the efficiency of the machines. For example, for Cleaning In Place (CIP) and automated cleaning systems, low foam is desirable, as foam can reduce pump efficiency leading to pressure differences, bacterial growth, and creation of haze or visual defects, thereby resulting in lower cleaning performance.

[0005] Foam can also be harsh and may corrode or damage internal components of automated machines such as rubber seals, plastic parts, and electronic circuitry. Over time, this can lead to premature wear and tear and reduce the lifespan of the automated machines.

[0006] Foams may also not break down easily in wastewater treatment systems and can contribute to water pollution. Additionally, some foam suppressants used to control foam in automated cleaning products may contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Accordingly, there remains an opportunity to form low foaming compositions.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] This disclosure provides an aqueous composition that includes: A. a fatty alcohol ethoxylate present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05 to about 60 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition and having the following formula:

R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)_nCH₂CH₂OH wherein R is a branched alcohol moiety having from about 8 to about 12 carbon atoms and a degree of branching of from about 0.8 to about 2.5 and n is a number of from about 2 to about 6;

B. a water soluble hydrotrope present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.01 to about 40 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition;

C. a chelating agent present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 50 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; and

D. water, wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of less than about 1.15.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The present disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a line graph of Foam Height (mm) as a function of Time (sec) of various mixtures of the Examples; and

[0010] FIG. 2 is a line graph of Area (%) as a Function of Moles of Ethylene Oxide (EO) of various Examples.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the current composition. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or the following detailed description.

[0012] Embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directed to aqueous compositions and methods for forming the same. For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to making polymers that may be included in such composition may not be described in detail herein. Moreover, various tasks and process steps described herein may be incorporated into a more comprehensive procedure or process having additional steps or functionality not described in detail herein. In particular, various steps in the manufacture of polymers and associated compositions are well-known and so, in the interest of brevity, many conventional steps will only be described briefly herein or will be omitted entirely without providing the well-known process details. [0013] In this disclosure, the terminology “about” can describe values ± 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10%, in various embodiments. Moreover, it is contemplated that, in various non-limiting embodiments, it is to be appreciated that all numerical values as provided herein, save for the actual examples, are approximate values with endpoints or particular values intended to be read as “about” or “approximately” the value as recited. It is also contemplated that all isomers and chiral options for each compound described herein are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein in various non-limiting embodiments.

[0014] Throughout this disclosure, the terminology percent "actives" is well recognized in the art and means the percent amount of active or actual compound or molecule present as compared to, for example, a total weight of a diluted solution of a solvent and such a compound. Some compounds, such as a solvent, are not described relative to a percent actives because it is well known to be approximately 100% actives. Any one or more of the values described herein may be alternatively described as percent actives as would be understood by the skilled person.

[0015] In various embodiments, the terminology “free of’ describes embodiments that include less than about 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.5, or 0.1, weight percent (or weight percent actives) of the compound or element at issue using an appropriate weight basis as would be understood by one of skill in the art. In other embodiments, the terminology “free of’ describes embodiments that have zero weight percent of the compound or element at issue.

[0016] The terminology “consists essentially of’ may describe various non-limiting embodiments that are free of one or more optional compounds described herein and/or free of one or more polymers, surfactants, additives, solvents, etc.

[0017] It is to be understood that the subscripts of polymers are typically described as average values because the synthesis of polymers typically produces a distribution of various individual molecules.

[0018] The polymers and compositions disclosed herein may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the components, elements, and process delineations described herein. The embodiments illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

[0019] This disclosure provides an aqueous composition that includes: A. a fatty alcohol ethoxylate present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05 to about 60 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition and having the following formula:

C . a chelating agent present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 50 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; and

In some embodiments, the composition produces a foam height of less than about 4 mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition.

[0020] In one embodiment, the composition is or includes (A)-(D) above.

[0021] In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially of (A)-(D) above. The terminology “consists essentially of’ describes that the composition may be free of, or include less than about 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, or 0.1, weight percent, of one or more polymers not described herein or described herein as optional, one or more additives not described herein or described herein as optional, etc.

[0022] In another embodiment, the composition consists of (A)-(D) above.

[0023] In other embodiments, the composition includes (A)-(D) and one or more additives described herein.

[0024] In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially of (A)-(D) and one or more additives described herein. The terminology “consists essentially of’ describes that the composition may be free of, or include less than about 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, or 0.1, weight percent, of one or more polymers not described herein or described herein as optional, one or more additives not described herein or described herein as optional, etc.

[0025] In another embodiment, the composition consists of (A)-(D) and one or more additives described herein. [0026] In one embodiment, the composition is or includes (A), (B), and (D) above.

[0027] In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially of (A), (B), and (D) above. The terminology “consists essentially of’ describes that the composition may be free of, or include less than about 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, or 0.1, weight percent, of (C) and/or of one or more polymers not described herein or described herein as optional, one or more additives not described herein or described herein as optional, etc.

[0028] In another embodiment, the composition consists of (A), (B), and (D) above.

[0029] In other embodiments, the composition includes (A), (B), and (D) and one or more additives described herein. In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially of (A), (B), and (D) and one or more additives described herein. The terminology “consists essentially of’ describes that the composition may be free of, or include less than about 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, or 0.1, weight percent, (C) and/or of one or more polymers not described herein or described herein as optional, one or more additives not described herein or described herein as optional, etc.

[0030] In another embodiment, the composition consists of (A), (B), and (D) and one or more additives described herein.

[0031] In various embodiments, the composition is free of (C) the chelating agent.

(A) Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0032] The fatty alcohol ethoxylate has the following formula:

R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)_nCH₂CH₂OH wherein R is a branched alcohol moiety having from about 8 to about 12 carbon atoms and a degree of branching of from about 0.8 to about 2.5 and n is a number of from about 2 to about 6. More specifically, R may have 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 carbon atoms. Moreover, a mixture of R groups may be utilized such that some molecules have 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 carbon atoms and other molecules have a different number of carbon atoms of from about 8 to about 12. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0033] It is contemplated that a single fatty alcohol ethoxylate may be utilized or a combination of two or more fatty alcohol ethoxylates may be utilized. The fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a degree of branching as described above. The degree of branching is typically defined as a number of methyl groups in the fatty alcohol ethoxylate minus one. The degree of branching is typically an average number such that the number may be a fraction or a whole number. In various embodiments, the degree of branching of an alcohol refers to the number of branches or side chains attached to the carbon atom of alkyl chain bonded to the hydroxyl (-OH) group. In simpler terms, the degree of branching may describe how many other carbon atoms are directly attached to the carbon atom of alkyl chain that is also bonded to the hydroxyl group. For example, in a primary alcohol, there are no branches on the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl group. In a secondary alcohol, there is one branch on the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl group. In a tertiary alcohol, there are two branches on the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl group. The fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a degree of branching of from about 0.8 to about 2.5. In other embodiments, this value is from about 0.9 to about 2.4, about 1 to about 2.3, or about 1.9 to about 2.2. In other embodiments, the degree of branching is from about 0.8 to about 2.2, about 1.8 to about 2.15, about 1.8 to about 2.5, about 1.9 to about 2.1, or about 2.1. In other embodiments, the degree of branching is about 1.8, 1.85, 1.9, 1.95, 2, 2.05, 2.1, 2.15, 2.2, 2.25, 2.3, 2.35, 2.4, 2.45, or 2.5. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein. [0034] In one embodiment, R is a CIO alkyl group having a degree of branching of from about 1.8 to about 2.2.

[0035] Referring now to “n”, “n” typically describes the degree of ethoxylation of the alcohol minus one. For example, n is typically a value of from about 2 to about 6, about 3.5 to about 6, about 4 to about 6, about 4.5 to about 5.5, about 4 to about 5, etc. In other embodiments, n is 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6. In other embodiments, n is from about 3 to about 4, from about 3 to about 3.5, or from about 3.5 to about 4. In other embodiments, n is from about 4 to about 5, from about 4 to about 4.5, or from about 4.5 to about 5. In other embodiments, n is from about 5 to about 6, from about 5 to about 5.5, or from about 5.5 to about 6. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0036] The fatty alcohol ethoxylate is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05 to about 60 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the amount is from about 0.05 to about 10, about 0.05 to about 5, about 0.05 to about 1, about 0.05 to about 0.5, about 0.05 to about 0.1, about 0.1 to about 5, about 0.1 to about 1, about 0.5 to about 5, about 0.5 to about 1, about 1 to about 10, about 2 to about 9, about 3 to about 8, about 4 to about 7, about 5 to about 6, about 5 to about 60, about 10 to about 55, about 15 to about 50, about 20 to about 45, about 25 to about 40, about 30 to about 35, etc., weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the amount is from about 3 to about 15, about 4 to about 14, about 5 to about 13, about 6 to about 12, about 7 to about 11, about 8 to about 10, or about 9 to about 10, weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0037] In various embodiments, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of less than about 1.15, 1.1, or 1.05. In other embodiments, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of about 1. In other embodiments, this value is from about 1 to about 1.15, about 1 to about 1.1, or about 1.1 to about 1.15. In other embodiments, this value is about 1, 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.1, 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.14, or 1.15, or any range thereof. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0038] The fatty alcohol ethoxylate is not limited relative to method of making. However, to form a fatty alcohol ethoxylate having a low polydispersity index, typically a “narrow range catalyst” method is used.

[0039] As is known in the art, fatty alcohol ethoxylates are formed by the reaction of fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide in the presence of a catalyst. A standard or typical catalyst, such as KOH or another basic catalyst, catalyzes a reaction that produces a broad range of ethoxylates having a polydispersity index typically greater than 1.5 or even greater than 2. However, use of a narrow range catalyst with specific properties, e.g. specific pore sizes and/or active sites or of Lewis acid type, allows for more precise control over the addition conditions and results in obtaining an alkoxylate having a polydispersity index of less than about 1.15, 1.1, or 1.05, or even about 1.

[0040] Typically, the narrow range catalyst is chosen based on its specific properties, such as reactivity and solubility in the fatty alcohol. The fatty alcohol (or a mixture of fatty alcohols) and the ethylene oxide are typically introduced into a reaction vessel including the narrow range catalyst. The catalyst provides sites for the reaction to occur, facilitating the formation of the fatty alcohol ethoxylates. The narrow range catalyst influences the distribution of ethoxylate products formed during the reaction which leads to the polydispersity index described above. After reaction, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate can be purified to remove any unreacted starting materials or by-products. This purification process may involve techniques such as distillation, extraction, or chromatography. In various non-limiting embodiments, the narrow range catalyst can be that as described in, for example, Nonionic Surfactants: Organic Chemistry in Surfactant Science Series volume 72, 1998, pp 1 -37 and 87-107, edited by Nico M. van Os; Marcel Dekker, Inc, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] Non-limiting examples of narrow range catalysts that can be used include Zeolites which are crystalline aluminosilicate minerals with well-defined pore structures. Zeolites can be used due to their high surface area and uniform pore size distribution, which allows for precise control over the reaction conditions and product selectivity. Supported Metal Catalysts that include transition metals (such as nickel, palladium, or platinum) supported on porous materials like alumina or silica can also be used and can provide active sites for the reaction to occur while offering control over the reaction kinetics and product distribution. Ion Exchange Resins that typically include crosslinked polymers with functional groups that can exchange ions can also be used. These resins can be engineered to have specific pore sizes and surface chemistries, allowing for tailored catalytic activity and selectivity. Organic Base Catalysts such as tertiary amines or quaternary ammonium salts can also be used to facilitate reaction between the fatty alcohol and ethylene oxide by deprotonating the fatty alcohol and activating it for nucleophilic attack by the ethylene oxide. Heterogeneous Catalysts including metal oxides, mixed metal oxides, and supported catalysts, can also be used. These catalysts offer advantages such as high stability, recyclability, and tunable catalytic properties.

[0042] The ethoxylation reaction that utilizes the narrow range catalyst is not particularly limited and may be any known in the art relative to reaction type, length, temperature and pressure conditions, etc.

(B) Water Soluble Hydrotrope

[0043] The water soluble hydrotrope is not particularly limited and may be any known in the art. Typically, the terminology “water soluble” describes that the hydrotrope completely dissolves in water as determined visually. For example, water solubility may be described as a 1 wt % aqueous solution of the hydrotrope being homogeneous and clear. Alternatively, light transmittance, e.g. as measured using a Turbiscan type instrument, may be utilized wherein a 1 wt% aqueous solution of the water soluble hydrotrope has a light transmittance of about 98, 99, or 100%. In various nonlimiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0044] The water soluble hydrotrope may be any known in the art. For example, the hydrotrope may be chosen from anionic hydrotropes, cationic hydrotropes, non-ionic hydrotropes, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the hydrotrope may be chosen from anionic hydrotropes, cationic hydrotropes, non-ionic hydrotropes, zwitterionic hydrotropes, and combinations thereof.

[0045] In various embodiments, the anionic hydrotrope may be chosen from sodium cumene sulfonate, sodium xylene sulfonate, sodium toluene sulfonate, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and combinations thereof.

[0046] In other embodiments, the cationic hydrotrope may be chosen from benzalkonium chloride, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), lauryl pyridinium chloride, and combinations thereof. [0047] In other embodiments, the non-ionic hydrotrope may be chosen from polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and combinations thereof.

[0048] In other embodiments, the zwitterionic hydrotrope may be chosen from betaines, N- dodecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-l -propanesulfonate, N-tetradecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio- 1 -propanesulfonate, N-hexadecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio- 1 -propanesulfonate, N-octadecyl- N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-l -propanesulfonate, and combinations thereof.

[0049] In various embodiments, the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic quaternary compound, e.g. as described in at least W02006/079598, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. [0050] In other embodiments, the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic amine oxide, e.g. as described in at least WO2023/247746A1, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] In other embodiments, the water soluble hydrotrope is a non-ionic alkyl amide ethoxylate, e.g. as described in EP 2 280 058 Al, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0052] In other embodiments, the water soluble hydrotrope is a non-ionic alkyl glucoside, e.g. as described in EP 2280 058 Al, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. [0053] The hydrotrope is present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.01 to about 40 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the amount is from about 0.01 to about 10, about 0.01 to about 5, about 0.01 to about 1, about 0.01 to about 0.5, about 0.01 to about 0.1, about 0.1 to about 5, about 0.1 to about 1, about 0.5 to about 5, about 0.5 to about 1, about 1 to about 10, about 2 to about 9, about 3 to about 8, about 4 to about 7, about 5 to about 6, about 5 to about 40, about 10 to about 35, about 15 to about 30, about 20 to about 25, etc. In other embodiments, the amount is from about 2 to about 13, about 3 to about 12, about 4 to about 11, about 5 to about 10, about 6 to about 9, or about 7 to about 8, weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

(C) Chelating Agent

[0054] The chelating agent is not particularly limited and may be any known in the art. For example, the chelating agent may be chosen from ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid, diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTP A), nitrilo triacetic acid (NT A), hydroxy ethyl ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA), trisodium citrate, sodium gluconate, a phosphonic acid (e.g., HEDP, ATMP, etc.), a polyaminocarboxylic acids (e.g., PCA, etc.), methylglycinediacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid diacetate (GLDA), and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the chelating agent is chosen from EDTA, GLDA, MGDA, and combinations thereof.

[0055] In further embodiments, the chelating agent is chosen from aminocarboxylates, such as sodium nitrilotriacetate (Na3NTA), sodium ethylenediamine tetraacetate (Na4EDTA), sodium diethylenetriamine pentaacetate(Na5DTPA), sodium 1,3 -propylenediamine tetraacetate(Na4PDTA), methylglycinediacetic acid trisodium salt (Na3MGDA), glutamic acid diacetic acid tetratsodium salt(Na4GLDA) and sodiumhydroxyethylethylenediamine triacetate(Na3HEDTA); aminopolyphosphonates, such as nitrilotrimethylene phosphonate; organic phosphates; polycarboxylates, such as citrates; and alkali salts of gluconic acid, such as sodium or potassium gluconates.

[0056] The chelating agent is typically present in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In various embodiments, the amount is from about 1 to about 10, about 2 to about 9, about 3 to about 8, about 4 to about 7, about 5 to about 6, about 5 to about 50, about 10 to about 40, about 15 to about 35, about 20 to about 30, or about 25 to about 35, weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the weight is about 4 to about 20, about 6 to about 18, about 8 to about 16, about 10 to about 14, or about 10 to about 12, weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the composition is free of the chelating agent (e.g. zero weight percent) or includes less than 1, 0.5, or 0.1 weight percent actives of the chelating agent based on a total weight of the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

(D) Water

[0057] The composition also includes water. The amount of water is not particularly limited. The amount of water is typically calculated as 100 wt% - the weight percent actives of ((A), (B), and (C)) or of ((A) and (B)), e.g. if (C) is not utilized. In other words, the amount of water may be described as a balance, up to 100 wt%, added to the amounts of ((A), (B), and (C)) or of ((A) and (B)), e.g. if (C) is not utilized. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

(E) Additives

[0058] The composition may be acidic, neutral or alkaline. Accordingly, the composition may include, or be free of, one or more additives, such as those that would be used to form acidic, neutral, or alkaline composition. For example, the composition may include, or be free of, acid, alkali hydroxides, alkaline builders and/or complexing agents. The acid is typically HC1. The alkali hydroxides typically are sodium or potassium hydroxide. The alkaline builders may be an alkali carbonate or an alkali hydrogen carbonate, such as sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate or potassium hydrogen carbonate, an alkali salt of a silicate, such as sodium silicate or sodium metasilicate, or alkali salts of phosphates, such as sodium orthophosphate. Alkaline builders which act through complexation are, e.g., sodium pyrophosphate and sodium tripolyphosphate and the corresponding potassium salts. The builder/complexing agent may also be organic. In neutral and acidic compositions complexing agents may also be added, such as citric acid. The amounts of one or more additives may be any known in the art and can be chosen by the skilled person. [0059] In various non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the components, methods, techniques, etc. described herein may be as described in W02006079598A1, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Physical Properties:

[0060] The composition is not particularly limited relative to physical properties. In various embodiments, the composition produces a foam height of less than about 4 mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. Accordingly, the composition may be described as low foaming.

[0061] In other embodiments, the foam height described herein refers to (A)+(D) and not the entire composition, e.g. excluding (B) and (C). Therefore, any foam height described herein may alternatively be applied to just the combination of (A)+(D).

[0062] In other embodiments, the foam height is less than about 3.5, 3, 2.5, or 2, mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0063] In other embodiments, the foam height is less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, or 1, mm when measured about 50 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0064] In other embodiments, the foam height is less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.5, or 0.1, mm when measured about 100 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. It is contemplated that the foam height may be about zero mm when measured about 100 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0065] In other embodiments, the foam height is less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.5, or 0.1, mm when measured about 150 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. It is contemplated that the foam height may be about zero mm when measured about 150 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0066] In still other embodiments, the foam height is less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.5, or 0.1, mm when measured about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, or 150, seconds after combination of (A)- (D) (or (A)+(D)) at about 50°C. In various non-limiting embodiments, all values and ranges of values, both whole and fractional, including and between those set forth above are hereby expressly contemplated for use herein.

[0067] The foaming profile (including foam height (mm)) of the composition can be determined using any method known in the art. Typically, the Ross-Miles test is used, as is known in the art, e.g. according to ASTM 1173, e.g. ASTM 1173-53 or ASTM D 1173-07, ISO 696:1975, and/or method AB46-1242. As is known in the art, the Ross-Miles foam test is a method used to evaluate the foaming properties of surfactant solutions. It is commonly employed to assess the effectiveness of surfactants in producing stable foam.

[0068] In various embodiments, a 0.05% surfactant solution is prepared in demineralized water. A surfactant solution is pre-heated to 50-55°C and then 50 ml of the tempered surfactant solution is poured at the bottom of the instrument. A Ross-Miles pipette (200mL) is filled and put into place at the top of the glass column. The tap of the Ross-Miles pipette is opened. When all liquid has left the pipette, a stopwatch is started and the foam height is measured after desired time intervals The operator then rinses the foam tube with distilled water after the measurement has been finished and then perform additional measurements. If the difference between the measurements is more than 10 mm, the tests are repeated. The foam stability data collected during the test can be analyzed to determine various parameters, such as foam height, initial foam height, foam stability index, and half-life of the foam. These parameters provide valuable insights into the foaming properties of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate. The Ross-Miles foam test is a standardized method that allows for the comparative evaluation of different compounds in terms of their foaming ability and stability.

Additional Embodiments

[0069] In other embodiments, the disclosure provides an aqueous composition comprising:

A. a fatty alcohol ethoxylate present in the composition in an amount of from about 25 to about 40 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition and having the following formula:

R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)_nCH₂CH₂OH wherein R is a branched alcohol moiety having about 10 carbon atoms and a degree of branching of from about 1.8 to about 2.5 and n is a number of from about 3 to about 4;

B. a water soluble hydrotrope present in the composition in an amount of from about 20 to about 35 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition and chosen from cationic hydrotropes, anionic hydrotropes, non-ionic hydrotropes, and combinations thereof;

C. a chelating agent present in the composition in an amount of from about 0 to about 5 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; and

D. water, wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of less than about 1.15. Typically, this composition produces a foam height of less than about 4 mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition. In such embodiments, the (C) chelating agent is optional such that the composition may be entirely free of the chelating agent. It is contemplated that, in such embodiments, all other aspects of the composition may be as described above relative to compounds, amounts of compounds, physical properties, etc.

EXAMPLES

[0070] A series of fatty alcohol ethoxylates are formed according to a standard technique and, in the alternative, according to a narrow range catalyst technique.

[0071] The standard (STD) technique is described as follows: 1 mole of isodecanol (DB = 2.1) and 0.5wt% of KOH (based on the amount of fatty alcohol (moisture is below 0.1wt%)) are added to the autoclave. 4 moles of ethylene oxide are added at 150-160°C keeping the pressure under 4Bar. The reaction is carried out at 150-160°C while the pressure is changing. The temperature is decreased to 100°C after the pressure in the reactor is constant for 30 min and the product is discharged. The degree of ethoxylation is evaluated by ¹ H- NMR technique.

[0072] The narrow range catalyst (NR) technique is described as follows:

[0073] 1 mole of isodecanol (DB = 2.1) and 0.2wt% of BF3 etherate (based on the amount of fatty alcohol (moisture is below 0.1 wt%)) are added to the autoclave. 4 moles of ethylene oxide are added at 100°C keeping the pressure under 3Bar. The reaction is carried out at 100°C while the pressure is changing. The product is discharged after the pressure in the reactor is constant for 30 min. The degree of ethoxylation is evaluated by ¹ H-NMR technique.

[0074] After formation, about 150 mg of a sample of the standard technique and about 150 mg of a sample of the narrow range catalyst technique were each independently dissolved in 10 ml Pyridine. 50 pl of these two solutions was derivatized with 100 pl BSTFA at 65 °C for 30 minutes. The derivatized samples were analyzed using High Temperature GC-FID for the EO distribution. GC-MS was applied to identify the peaks and to find the EO distribution pattern. The results are set forth below and also in FIG. 2 wherein Poly dispersity index (PDI) is calculated as follows:

Mw

PDI =

Mn

[0075] An additional series of fatty alcohol ethoxylates are formed and added to water to form a series of mixtures. These mixtures are then evaluated to determine foam height (mm) at various time points after formation.

Mixture 1 : Comparative Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0076] Mixture 1 is a comparative example that includes decanol alcohol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 0.2.

[0077] This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of approximately 1.05.

Mixture 2: Comparative Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0078] Mixture 2 is also a comparative example that includes an decanol alcohol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 0. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of approximately 1.05.

Mixture 3: Comparative Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0079] Mixture 3 is also a comparative example that includes an isodecanol or isodecyl alcohol that is ethoxylated using the standard technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 2.1. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of approximately 1.2.

Mixture 4: Inventive Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0080] Mixture 4 is an inventive example that includes a 2-propylheptanol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 5 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 1. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of approximately 1.09.

Mixture 5: Inventive Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0081] Mixture 5 is an inventive example that includes an isodecanol alcohol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 2.1. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of approximately 1.08.

Mixture 6: Inventive Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0082] Mixture 6 is an inventive example that includes an isodecanol alcohol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4.4 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 2.1. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of approximately 1.08.

Mixture 7: Inventive Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate

[0083] Mixture 7 is an inventive example that includes an isodecanol alcohol that is ethoxylated using the narrow range catalyst technique described above. The alcohol is ethoxylated with 4.8 moles of ethylene oxide and has a degree of branching of 2.1. This fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of approximately 1.09.

[0084] After formation, each of the above (alcohol ethoxylate in water) was evaluated using the Ross-Miles technique to determine a foaming profile after approximately 0.5 seconds, 10 seconds, 50 seconds, 100 seconds, and 150 seconds. The concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylates in the water that were evaluated to determine foaming profile was 0.05 wt% actives. The foaming tests were carried out at 50°C using the aforementioned Ross-Miles technique pursuant to ASTM 1173-53 . The results are set forth below.

[0085] The results show that the combination of narrow range ethoxylation (resulting in a low poly dispersity index) and degree of branching of a nonionic surfactant resulted in (1) a lower total foam height than would be expected and (2) that total foam declined after 50 s, which was also unexpected. Clearly, this is superior to what is otherwise known or expected.

[0086] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An aqueous composition comprising:

A. a fatty alcohol ethoxylate present in the composition in an amount of from about 0.05 to about 60 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition and having the following formula:

C. a chelating agent present in the composition in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition; and

2. The aqueous composition of claim 1 that produces a foam height of less than about 4 mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition.

3. The aqueous composition of claim 1 wherein n is a number of from about 4 to about 5.

4. The aqueous composition of claim 1 or 2 wherein the degree of branching is from about 1.8 to 2.5.

5. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of less than about 1.1.

6. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is present in an amount of from about 3 to about 15 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition.

7. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is chosen from cationic hydrotropes, anionic hydrotropes, non-ionic hydrotropes, and combinations thereof.

8. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic amine quaternary hydrotrope.

9. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic amine oxide.

10. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a non-ionic alkyl amide ethoxylate.

11. The aqueous composition of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a non-ionic alkyl glucoside.

12. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is present in an amount of from about 2 to about 13 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition.

13. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the chelating agent is chosen from EDTA, GLDA, MGDA, and combinations thereof.

14. The aqueous composition of any preceding claim wherein the chelating agent is present in an amount of from about 4 to about 20 weight percent actives based on a total weight of the composition.

15. An aqueous composition comprising:

R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)_nCH₂CH₂OH wherein R is a branched alcohol moiety having about 10 carbon atoms and a degree of branching of from about 1.8 to about 2.5 and n is a number of from about 4 to about 5;

D. water, wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a poly dispersity index of less than about 1.15; and wherein the composition produces a foam height of less than about 4 mm when measured about 10 seconds after combination of (A)-(D) at about 50°C and when the concentration of the fatty alcohol ethoxylate is about 0.05 weight percent actives in the composition.

16. The aqueous composition of claim 15 wherein the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has a polydispersity index of less than about 1.1.

17. The aqueous composition of claim 15 or 16 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic amine quaternary hydrotrope.

18. The aqueous composition of claim 15 or 16 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a cationic amine oxide.

19. The aqueous composition of claim 15 or 16 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a nonionic alkyl amide ethoxylate.

20. The aqueous composition of claim 15 or 16 wherein the water soluble hydrotrope is a nonionic alkyl glucoside.