Compositions comprising alkali-swellable copolymers

Abstract

In one aspect, the composition comprises an alkali-swellable copolymer derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt % of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid; 30 to 70 wt % of an ethylenically unsaturated C 1‑2 alkyl carboxylate; and 15 to 40 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A); and less than or equal to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group. The composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6. The composition may optionally contain a surfactant.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 915,715 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 915,713, both filed on October 16, 2019. The related applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] In developing a composition that can have a long shelf life, achieving a desired viscosity profile can be challenging. For example, in certain cleaning compositions, it may be desirable to have a composition that maintains a uniform distribution during a long shelf life, which also exhibits sufficient shear thinning effect to allow the composition to be dispensed from its packaging. The property of having a much higher viscosity at low shear than at high shear (known as "shear thinning") can be imparted by many polymers when dissolved, including those in the family of hydrophobe-modified alkali-swellable emulsions of network vinyl polymers (HASE).

[0004] Although several hydrophobe-modified alkali-swellable emulsion polymers have been developed, further improvements are needed. Summary of the invention

[0005] Disclosed herein is a composition comprising an alkali-swellable copolymer.

[0006] In one aspect, the composition comprises an alkali-swellable copolymer. The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 weight percent (wt%) of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; 30 to 70 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 alkyl carboxylate; and 15 to 40 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) described below, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; and less than or equal to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. The composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6. The composition may optionally include a surfactant.

[0007] On the other hand, the composition comprises: 0.1 to 10 wt% of an alkali-swellable copolymer according to the total weight of the composition; and 5 to 50 wt% of at least one of a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant according to the total weight of the composition. The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% or 20 to 35 wt% of methacrylic acid and optional acrylic acid according to the total weight of the monomers in the mixture, wherein the optional acrylic acid is present in an amount less than or equal to 50 wt% according to the total weight of the methacrylic acid and the optional acrylic acid; 30 to 70 wt% or 35 to 55 wt% of ethyl (meth)acrylate according to the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; and 15 to 40 wt% or 15 to 35 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) described below according to the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; 0.01 to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group according to the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. The alkali-swellable copolymer is the product of aqueous emulsion polymerization. The composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6.

[0008] The above and other features are exemplified by the following detailed description and claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] It is often desirable that the composition contain a dispersion of insoluble components. These insoluble components may perform functions such as removing dirt, or they may provide aesthetic benefits by reflecting light or carrying fragrances. In the case of personal care compositions, the composition may typically contain insoluble components that impart, for example, tactile or cosmetic benefits to the skin, nails, or hair. In order to ensure a relatively uniform distribution of the insoluble components in the composition, the composition is dispersed at 0.01 reciprocal seconds (s -1 s) at low shear rates such that gravity or buoyancy forces acting on insoluble components are resisted over a time scale relevant to the shelf life of the product (e.g., a shelf life of one year). In addition, the composition should be capable of being rapidly dispensed from its container by gravity, with a viscosity of 10 to 100 s. -1 The viscosity at typical shear rates for pouring from a bottle should be relatively low, for example less than or equal to 10 Pa·s.

[0010] An alkali-swellable copolymer containing relatively low levels of multifunctional (crosslinking) monomers has been discovered that is capable of achieving a desired viscosity profile with strongly shear-thinning rheology and high low-shear viscosity values ​​associated with suspension of insoluble components.

[0011] The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% or 20 to 50 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; 30 to 70 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 alkyl carboxylate; and 15 to 40 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; and less than or equal to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. In other words, the alkali-swellable copolymer is polymerized from the monomers present in the mixture and contains corresponding amounts of ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid, ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 Residues of alkyl carboxylates, nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomers having formula (A), and multifunctional monomers.

[0012]

[0013] The alkali swellable copolymer may be considered a HASE copolymer. The composition may have a pH of 6 or greater.

[0014] In formula (A), R1 is a methyl group or hydrogen, each R2 is independently a methyl group or an ethyl group, and R3 is a straight chain C 8-14 An alkyl group, x is an integer from 0 to 3, y is an integer from 10 to 40, z is an integer from 0 to 5, and E is a difunctional group which may be -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)-, or -(C=O)-. E may be a difunctional group which may be selected from the group consisting of -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)-, or -(C=O)-. R3 may be a linear C 12-14 Alkyl group.

[0015] The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid, an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 Alkyl carboxylate, a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) and a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group.

[0016] The ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid may include at least one of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid. The ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid may include methacrylic acid. The ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid may include acrylic acid and methacrylic acid in a weight ratio of 1:1 to 1:4 or 1:1.5 to 1:3. The ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid may include less than or equal to 50 wt% of acrylic acid based on the total weight of the ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid.

[0017] Ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2The alkyl carboxylate may comprise at least one of ethyl acrylate, ethyl methacrylate, methyl acrylate or methyl methacrylate. 1-2 The alkyl group in alkyl carboxylates is limited to C 1-2 The alkyl group results in a composition having improved viscosity. For example, replacing the C4 alkyl group of butyl acrylate with the C4 alkyl group of butyl acrylate 1-2 Alkyl groups can lead to significant reductions in peak viscosity values.

[0018] The nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) comprises a vinyl end group, an ethylene oxide core and a lipophilic end group. The vinyl end group is reactive to allow for the reaction with an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid and an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 Alkyl carboxylates are polymerized. The vinyl end groups are linked to the ethylene oxide core via a linker E which is a difunctional group. The difunctional group can be -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)- or -(C=O)-.

[0019] The ethylene oxide core provides hydrophilicity to the alkali-swellable copolymer. The chain length of each ethylene oxide core can be 10 to 48 or 10 to 40 or 10 to 30 repeating units, and can optionally include methyl or ethyl side groups. In formula (A), x can be 0 to 3 or 1 to 3; y can be 10 to 40 or 10 to 30 or 20 to 30; and z can be 0 to 5 or 1 to 4. The individual ethylene oxide cores in the nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomers of formula (A) can vary, for example, such that at least 50% or 75 to 100% of the ethylene oxide cores have a chain length of 10 to 48 repeating units based on the total number of ethylene oxide cores. It should be noted that the ethylene oxide cores can be blocky, for example as shown in formula (A), or can be random.

[0020] The lipophilic end group can be a straight chain C 8-14 Alkyl groups, or derived from straight chain C 8-14 Alkyl alcohol or straight chain C 12-14 Alkyl alcohol straight chain C 12-14 The lipophilic end groups may be of synthetic or natural origin and may contain a range of different chain lengths. Thus, it will be appreciated that C 8-14 The alkyl chain length may be the major chain length of the lipophilic end groups present in the alkali-swellable copolymer, in an amount of at least 50% or 75 to 100% based on the total number of lipophilic end groups.

[0021] The nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer may include C 12-14 Methacrylates of linear alcohol ethoxylates.

[0022] The multifunctional monomer can be used to crosslink the alkali swellable copolymer, or to copolymerize the alkali swellable copolymer with different components containing reactive pendant groups. The multifunctional monomer can contain two or more reactive groups, for example, two or more vinyl groups. The multifunctional monomer can contain 2 to 6 or 2 to 4 or 2 to 3 vinyl groups. The multifunctional monomer may include ethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate, polyethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate, triethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate, 1,3-butanediol di(meth)acrylate, 1,6-butanediol di(meth)acrylate, 1,6-hexanediol di(meth)acrylate, neopentyl glycol di(meth)acrylate, 1,9-nonanediol di(meth)acrylate, trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate, trimethylolethane tri(meth)acrylate, pentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylate, tetramethylolmethane tri(meth)acrylate, ditrimethylolpropane tetra(meth)acrylate, tetramethylolethane tri(meth)acrylate, and the like. At least one of methyl methane tetra(meth)acrylate, pentaerythritol tetra(meth)acrylate, dipentaerythritol hexa(meth)acrylate, dipentaerythritol penta(meth)acrylate, allyl (meth)acrylate, diallyl phthalate, diallyl itaconate, diallyl fumarate, diallyl maleate, polyallyl ether of sucrose having 2 to 8 groups per molecule, pentaerythritol diallyl ether, pentaerythritol triallyl ether, pentaerythritol tetraallyl ether, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, trimethylolpropane triallyl ether, divinyl glycol, divinylbenzene, divinylcyclohexyl or methylenebisacrylamide. The multifunctional monomer may include at least one of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, divinylbenzene, allyl methacrylate, diacrylobutylene, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, or diallyl phthalate. The multifunctional monomer may include at least one of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, or diallyl phthalate.

[0023] The mixture may further include a hydrophilic comonomer, for example, having at least one of a hydroxyl, carboxylic acid, or sulfonic acid group; or at least one of the hydroxyl or carboxylic acid groups. The hydrophilic comonomer may include at least one of 2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate (HEMA or HEA), itaconic acid, or acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid. The hydrophilic comonomer may include at least one of 2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate (HEMA or HEA) or itaconic acid.

[0024] The alkali-swellable copolymer may be free of, for example, 0 to 0.5 wt % or 0 wt % of residues derived from sulfonate monomers, based on the total weight of monomers. The alkali-swellable copolymer may be free of, for example, 0 to 0.5 wt % or 0 wt % of residues derived from ethylenically unsaturated C 3-4 The residue of an alkyl carboxylate.

[0025] Alkali swellable copolymers can be prepared using known polymerization techniques, for example, via aqueous or reverse emulsification procedures, or precipitation or solution polymerization processes. Alkali swellable copolymers can be prepared using aqueous emulsion polymerization at a pH greater than or equal to 6, wherein such polymerization can result in alkali swellable copolymers that may not contain a core-shell structure. The polymerization reaction can be catalyzed via a free radical initiator (e.g., a peroxide) and an optional chain transfer agent. The free radical initiator can include at least one of a peroxide, a hydroperoxide, a persulfate, an organic peroxide or an initiator (such as azobisisobutyronitrile). The free radical initiator can be present in an amount of 0.01 to 3wt% by the total weight of the monomer. The chain transfer agent can include a compound with a sulfhydryl group (e.g., a long chain alkyl mercaptan or thioester (e.g., dodecyl-, octyl-, tetradecyl- or hexadecyl-mercaptan or butyl-, isooctyl- or dodecyl-mercaptoacetate)). The chain transfer agent may be present in an amount of 0.01 to 5 wt % or 0.1 to 1 wt % based on the total weight of the monomers.

[0026] Alternatively, the alkali-swellable copolymer can be polymerized using known polymerization techniques, wherein the reactant monomers and initiator are dissolved in a suitable solvent (e.g., at least one of toluene, xylene, or tetrahydrofuran). The polymerization can be completed at a given reaction temperature for a necessary time, for example, 60 to 80 degrees Celsius (° C.) for 2 to 24 hours. The alkali-swellable copolymer can be isolated by conventional separation techniques, including solvent stripping.

[0027] The polymerization temperature may be 60 to 90° C. The alkali swellable copolymer may be recovered by filtration, and the copolymer may be dried. Examples of polymerization methods may be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,384,096, 4,663,385, 4,429,097, and 4,514,552. The weight average molecular weight of the uncrosslinked alkali swellable copolymer may be 100,000 to 1 million g / mole based on polystyrene standards.

[0028] The composition may include 0.1 to 10 wt % of the alkali-swellable copolymer, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0029] The composition may include a surfactant. The surfactant may be present from emulsion polymerization and may include at least one of an anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant. Additional surfactants may be present in the composition, such as at least one of a cationic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant (e.g., comprising both anionic and cationic groups) or a zwitterionic surfactant, provided that they are compatible with the composition. The total amount of surfactant that may be present may be greater than 0 to 50 wt%, or 5 to 50 wt%, or 15 to 50 wt%, or 15 to 35 wt% by the gross weight of the composition. Examples of surfactants include C 8-18 Fatty acids or their water-soluble salts, C 8-18 Water-soluble sulfates of alcohols, sulfonated alkylaryl compounds (e.g., dodecylbenzenesulfonate), alkylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol (e.g., 7-18 The surfactant may be an alkylene oxide, e.g., propylene oxide ...

[0030] The surfactant may include at least one of an anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant. The surfactant may include an anionic surfactant. The anionic surfactant may include at least one of a carboxylate, sulfonate, sulfate or phosphate solubilizing group. The anionic surfactant may include C 9-13 Alkylbenzene sulfonate, C 12-15 Alkane sulfonate, C 10-18 Isethionate, C 10-18 Glutamate or C 10-18 The anionic surfactant may include at least one of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium tridecyl ether sulfate, dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt or alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate sodium salt.

[0031] The surfactant may include a nonionic surfactant. The nonionic surfactant may include at least one of an amide group, a hydroxyl group, or an alkylene oxide chain. The nonionic surfactant may include a linear or branched C 8-30At least one of fatty alcohol ethoxylates (e.g., caprylic alcohol ethoxylates, lauryl alcohol ethoxylates, myristyl alcohol ethoxylates, cetyl alcohol ethoxylates, stearyl alcohol ethoxylates, cetearyl alcohol ethoxylates, sterol ethoxylates, oleyl alcohol ethoxylates, or behenyl alcohol ethoxylates), alkylphenol alkoxylates (e.g., octylphenol ethoxylates), alkyl polyglucosides, or ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymers. The nonionic surfactant may include at least one of lauryl alcohol ethoxylates, alkylaryl polyether alcohols, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymers, or alkyl polyglucosides.

[0032] Anionic surfactants may be present in an amount greater than 0 to 50 wt% or 0.5 to 30 wt% by the total weight of the composition. Nonionic surfactants may be present in an amount greater than 0 to 50 wt% or 0.5 to 15 wt% by the total weight of the composition. The composition may include both anionic surfactants and nonionic surfactants in a weight ratio of 2.5:1 to 1.5:1.

[0033] The surfactant may include a cationic surfactant, for example, including at least one of an amine or ammonium solubilizing group. The cationic surfactant may include at least one of lauryl pyridinium chloride, octyl benzyl trimethyl-ammonium chloride, dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride or a fatty acid primary amine alkylene oxide condensate. On the contrary, the surfactant may be free of a cationic surfactant, for example, including 0wt% of a cationic surfactant by the total weight of the surfactant.

[0034] The surfactant may comprise an amphoteric surfactant, for example, at least one of an alkali metal salt, alkaline earth metal salt, ammonium salt or substituted ammonium salt of alkylamphodipropionate, alkylamphoacetate, alkylamphodiacetate, alkylamphoglycinate, alkylamphopropionate, alkyliminopropionate, alkyliminodipropionate or alkylamphopropylsulfonate. The amphoteric surfactant may include at least one of cocoamphoacetate, cocoamphopropionate, cocoamphodiacetate, lauroamphoacetate, lauroamphodiacetate, lauroamphodipropionate, lauroamphodiacetate, cocoamphopropylsulfonate, caproamphodiacetate, caproamphoacetate, caproamphodipropionate, stearamphoacetate, cocamidopropylhydroxysulfobetaine, sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium lauroamphopropionate, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate or disodium cocoamphodiacetate. Conversely, the surfactant may be free of amphoteric surfactants, for example, including 0 wt% of amphoteric surfactants based on the total weight of the surfactant.

[0035] The surfactant may include a zwitterionic surfactant. The zwitterionic surfactant may include at least one of a betaine surfactant or a sulfobetaine surfactant. The zwitterionic surfactant may include decyl dimethyl betaine, undecyl dimethyl betaine, dodecyl dimethyl betaine, tridecyl dimethyl betaine, tetradecyl dimethyl betaine, cocoyl dimethyl betaine, hexadecyl dimethyl betaine, heptadecyl dimethyl betaine, octadecyl dimethyl betaine, dodecyl amidopropyl dimethyl betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, cocamidopropyl dimethyl betaine, oleyl amidopropyl At least one of betaine, lauryl dihydroxypropyl glycinate, lauryl di(hydroxy-poly(ethoxy))glycinate, lauryl bis-(2-hydroxy-ethyl) carboxymethyl betaine, stearyl bis-(2-hydroxy-propyl) carboxymethyl betaine, cocoyl dimethyl sulfopropyl betaine, stearyl dimethyl sulfopropyl betaine, lauryl dimethyl sulfoethyl betaine, lauryl bis-2-hydroxy-ethyl) sulfopropyl betaine or cocamidopropyl hydroxysulfonate.

[0036] The composition may include an insoluble component. The insoluble component may perform a function that may provide an aesthetic benefit by reflecting light or carrying a fragrance / active substance. The insoluble component may serve as an opacifying material, a pearlescent material, a cosmetic agent (e.g., a vitamin for nourishing the skin or hair) or an exfoliating agent in a personal care composition. In the case of a personal care composition, the composition may contain an insoluble component that imparts a tactile or cosmetic benefit to the skin or hair. The insoluble component may be derived from at least one of an inorganic, organic, natural and synthetic source. The insoluble component may include silicone, bubbles, an anti-dandruff agent (e.g., zinc pyrithione or 2-hydroxypyridine-1-oxide), almond meal, apricot seed meal, barley flour, corn cob meal, corn cob meal, corn flour, corn meal, corn starch, oat bran, oat flour, oat flakes, peach kernel meal, pecan shell meal, jojoba seed meal, pumice, rice bran, rye flour, soy flour, walnut shell meal, wheat bran, wheat flour, wheat starch, loofah, clay, fuller's earth, alumina, aluminum oxide, aluminum silicate, magnesia stone, bismuth oxychloride, boron nitride, calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, calcium pyrophosphate, calcium sulfate, cellulose chalk, chitin, diatomaceous earth, calcium hydrogen phosphate, calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, hydrated dichloride, calcium dioxide, calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, calcium pyrophosphate, calcium sulfate, cellulose chalk, chitin, diatomaceous earth, calcium hydrogen phosphate, calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, calcium dioxide, calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, calcium pyrophosphate, calcium sulfate, cellulose chalk, chitin, diatomaceous earth, calcium hydrogen phosphate, calcium phosphate dihydrate, calcium dioxide, calcium phosphate dihydrate ... Silicon, hydroxyapatite, kaolin, iron oxide, magnesium trisilicate, tin oxide, mica, titanium dioxide, titanium dioxide coated mica, tricalcium phosphate zirconium silicate, microcrystalline cellulose, montmorillonite, polybutene, polyethylene, polyisobutylene, polymethylstyrene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyhalogenated olefins, hydrogenated products of jojoba oil, transesterification products of jojoba oil, sericite, silica, silk, sodium bicarbonate, sodium aluminosilicate, synthetic hectorite, talc, wax (e.g., paraffin, carnauba, ozocerite, candelilla), resin (e.g., urea formaldehyde). The insoluble component may include at least one of clay (e.g., swelling clay), liposomes, granular sponges, cosmetic beads or encapsulants (e.g., designed to break during use). The shape of the insoluble component in the composition is not limited, and may be in the form of spheres, ovoids, flakes, coacervates, irregular shapes, etc. The composition may be a cleaning composition, and may include an insoluble component. The composition may be a personal care composition, and may include an insoluble component.

[0037] The composition may include additives. The additives may include at least one of an enzyme, a dispersant polymer, a conditioning polymer, a solvent (e.g., water or an alkyl alcohol), a hydrotropic electrolyte, an oxygen bleach, a bleach activator, an inorganic builder, an organic builder, a foam inhibitor, an antimicrobial agent, a bactericide, a fungicide, an antioxidant, an antistatic agent, an ironing aid, an ultraviolet light absorber, a fatty acid, a fatty acid salt, a silicone fluid, an optical brightener, a dye transfer inhibitor, a dye, a fragrance, a salt, or a preservative.

[0038] The composition may include an alkali-swellable copolymer. The alkali-swellable copolymer may be derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid based on the total weight of monomers in the mixture; 30 to 70 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 alkyl carboxylate; 15 to 40 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; and less than or equal to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. The composition may have a pH greater than or equal to 6. The composition may include 0.1 to 10 wt% of an alkali swellable copolymer. The ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid may include at least one of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid. The ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 The alkyl carboxylate may include at least one of ethyl acrylate, ethyl methacrylate, methyl acrylate, or methyl methacrylate. The nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer may include C 12-14Methacrylate of linear alcohol ethoxylate. The multifunctional monomer may include at least one of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether or phthalic acid diallyl ester. The alkali swellable copolymer may not contain residues derived from sulfonate monomers. The composition may include a surfactant. The composition may include a surfactant greater than 0 to 50wt% by the total weight of the composition. The surfactant may include an anionic surfactant. The anionic surfactant may include at least one of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium tridecyl ether sulfate, sodium sulfosuccinate dioctyl ester or sodium alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate. The composition may include an anionic surfactant, which may be present in an amount of 0.5 to 30wt% by the total weight of the composition. The surfactant may include a nonionic surfactant. The nonionic surfactant may include at least one of lauryl alcohol ethoxylate, alkyl aryl polyether alcohol, alkyl polyglucoside or ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymer. The nonionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 0.5 to 15wt% by the total weight of the composition. The surfactant may include a zwitterionic surfactant. The zwitterionic surfactant may include at least one of dimethyl dodecylamine N-oxide or cocamidopropyl betaine. The zwitterionic surfactant may be present in an amount of 0.5 to 15wt% by the total weight of the composition. The alkali swellable copolymer may be the product of aqueous emulsion polymerization. The composition may be a cleaning composition, for example, a liquid laundry detergent or a liquid dishwashing detergent. The composition may be a personal care detergent. The composition may be a disposable personal care product. The composition may be a personal care product and may include a zwitterionic surfactant. The composition may further include at least one of an enzyme, a dispersant polymer, a conditioning polymer, a solvent, a hydrotropic electrolyte, an oxygen bleach, a bleach activator, an inorganic builder, an organic builder, a fatty acid, a fatty acid salt, a silicone fluid, an optical brightener, a dye transfer inhibitor, a dye, a fragrance, a salt or a preservative. The composition may further include an insoluble component.

[0039] In a specific example, the composition may include 0.1 to 10 wt% of an alkali-swellable copolymer, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% or 20 to 35 wt% of methacrylic acid and optionally acrylic acid, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture, wherein the optional acrylic acid is present in an amount less than or equal to 50 wt% based on the total weight of the methacrylic acid and the optional acrylic acid; 30 to 70 wt% or 35 to 55 wt% of ethyl (meth)acrylate, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; 15 to 40 wt% or 15 to 35 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A), based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; wherein R1 is a methyl group or hydrogen, each R2 is independently a methyl group or an ethyl group, and R3 is a linear C 12-14 alkyl group, x is an integer from 0 to 3, y is an integer from 10 to 40, z is an integer from 0 to 5, and E is -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)- or -(C=O)-; and 0.01 to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. The composition may include 5 to 50 wt% of at least one of a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant, based on the total weight of the composition, the alkali swellable copolymer may be a product of aqueous emulsion polymerization; and the composition may have a pH greater than or equal to 6.

[0040] The method for forming the composition is not particularly limited. The example of forming the composition includes mixing the alkali swellable copolymer with deionized water to form a dispersion. The pH of the dispersion can be adjusted during the dispersion formation (e.g., by adding a first amount of deionized water, adjusting the pH and adding a second amount of deionized water) or after the dispersion is formed. The remaining components, such as surfactants or additives, can be added before or after adjusting the pH. Forming the dispersion before forming the composition can allow for easier and more accurate adjustment of viscosity.

[0041] The composition can be thickened by adjusting the pH. For example, the pH can be adjusted to greater than or equal to 6, or greater than or equal to 7; or 6 to 13. A neutralizer can be used to adjust the pH. The neutralizer can include a base. The base can include at least one of an amine base, an alkali metal, or ammonium hydroxide. The base can include at least one of sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, or triethanolamine (TEA). Alternatively, the base-swellable copolymer can be first neutralized in an aqueous dispersion and then mixed to form the composition.

[0042] The composition can exhibit a non-Newtonian shear thinning viscosity, wherein the viscosity decreases over a range as the shear stress increases. -1The composition may have a viscosity greater than or equal to 20 Pa·s at a shear rate of 30 s. -1 The composition may have a viscosity greater than or equal to 1 Pa·s at a shear rate of 1.5 %. The composition may have a peak viscosity greater than or equal to 20 Pa·s, or 20 to 350 Pa·s, 25 to 320 Pa·s. The viscosity may be determined using a lower temperature-controlled stainless steel Peltier plate and an upper 40 mm stainless-steel 2 degree (°) cone according to the following procedure: conditioning at 25°C for 10 seconds, at 21 seconds -1 The flow step was repeated with a pre-shear of 10 seconds at 25°C and 300 seconds of equilibrium, oscillation at a constant strain of 1.0% at 25°C, and a logarithmic frequency sweep of 100 to 0.01 rad / s with 10 points per decade, a conditioning step, and a flow step. The flow step included a logarithmic stress sweep of 0.1 to 400 Pascals (Pa) with 10 points per decade at a temperature of 25°C, an equilibrium time of 20 seconds, an averaging time of 30 seconds, and a scaled time average factor of 1.0.

[0043] The composition can be stable wherein the one or more insoluble components remain suspended in the composition at a temperature of 23°C for greater than or equal to 6 months, or greater than or equal to 1 year.

[0044] The composition can be a personal care product, for example, a cosmetic, a shampoo, a conditioner, a two-in-one shampoo conditioner, a hair dye, a hair relaxer, a hair smoothing product, a leave-in hair care product (e.g., a conditioner, a serum, a spray or a gel), a hair styling product, a shower gel, a facial cleanser, a hand soap, a soap, a toner, an serum, a cleanser, a face cream, a shaving product, a wet wipe, a skin care product (e.g., an anti-acne product or an anti-aging protectant), a sunscreen, a complexion product, a foundation, a primer, a makeup remover, a bath product (e.g., a bath oil or a fragrance foam), a nail care product (e.g., a polish, a polish remover, a hardener, a nail remover or a softener), an oral care product (e.g., a toothpaste or a mouthwash), an air freshener. The personal care product can contain a surfactant, for example, a zwitterionic surfactant. As used herein, the term personal care product can refer to a product used on a biological organism.

[0045] The composition can be a cleaning composition, such as a laundry detergent, a dishwashing detergent, a surface cleaner (e.g., for countertops, floors, sinks, or toilets). The cleaning composition can be used to clean textile or non-textile surfaces (e.g., comprising at least one of metal, paint, wood, plastic, ceramic, or tile). The cleaning composition can be a liquid, foam, gel, spray, emulsion (e.g., oil-in-water or water-in-oil), ointment, or paste. As used herein, the term cleaning composition can refer to a composition for cleaning non-biological objects.

[0046] The following examples are provided to illustrate the present disclosure. These examples are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit devices made according to the present disclosure to the materials, conditions or process parameters set forth therein.

[0047] Examples

[0048] The components used in the examples are listed in Table 1.

[0049]

[0050] Example 1: Preparation of alkali-swellable copolymer

[0051] Alkali-swellable copolymers 1 to 16 were prepared by copolymerizing monomers in the amounts shown in Table 2 using a known emulsion polymerization method.

[0052] Example 2: Preparation of surfactant mixture

[0053] Surfactant concentrates were prepared according to the amounts specified in Table 3. Unless otherwise stated, surfactant concentrates were prepared at ambient temperature and the actual amount of each ingredient added was recorded and used to calculate the amount of water added in the final step.

[0054]

[0055] The surfactant concentrate was prepared by charging deionized (DI) water into a beaker while stirring. SDBS was gradually added under rapid stirring at 300 to 500 rpm to avoid the formation of lumps. Propylene glycol and ethanol were added and the mixture was stirred for 5 minutes. SLES was melted by heating to 30°C and then gradually added to the mixture and the mixture was stirred for 5 minutes. Finally, AE-4 was added to the mixture and the mixture was stirred for 5 minutes.

[0056] Example 3: Preparation of composition

[0057] An amount of each polymer of polymers 1-16 was weighed and mixed with an initial amount of deionized water to ensure uniform dispersion of the concentrate. While mixing with an overhead stirrer at 500 rpm, an amount of the concentrate was slowly poured into a wide-mouth bottle. The pH was adjusted to 7.0 using sodium hydroxide (5% by volume in deionized water). Next, an amount of deionized water was added to achieve the desired final concentration, and the mixture was stirred for another hour. The amounts used are shown in Table 4 in grams (g) and the weight percent (wt%) of active ingredient in the indicated composition.

[0058]

[0059] Example 4: Rheological Analysis of the Polymer of Example 1

[0060] Prior to rheological analysis, the compositions containing each polymer were centrifuged at 5,000 rpm for 20 minutes to remove air bubbles.

[0061] After centrifugation, the samples were allowed to rest for at least 16 hours before rheological testing. The samples were analyzed on a DHR-3 rheometer (TA Instruments) with an initial frequency sweep at constant strain followed by flow rheology testing at increasing shear rates.

[0062]

[0063] The instrument parameters included a lower temperature-controlled stainless steel Peltier plate and an upper 40 mm stainless steel 2 degree (°) cone. The conditioning steps included conditioning at 25°C for 10 seconds, -1 ) for 10 seconds and equilibrate for 300 seconds. The oscillation step occurs at 25°C, 1.0% constant strain, and uses a logarithmic frequency scan from 100 to 0.01 rad / s, with 10 points per decade. The conditioning step is repeated, followed by a flow step. The flow step includes a logarithmic stress scan from 0.1 to 400 Pascals (Pa), with 10 points per decade at a temperature of 25°C, an equilibration time of 20 seconds, an averaging time of 30 seconds, and a scaled time average factor of 1.0.

[0064] The maximum viscosity value from the flow rheology curve is reported as "Peak Viscosity" in Table 2. -1 The viscosity is obtained by measuring the viscosity of the -1 The viscosities at the two shear rates were obtained by linear interpolation and are also reported in Table 2.

[0065] Examples 5 to 7: Preparation of Personal Care Leave-On Formulations (Facial Serum) Containing Wax Beads

[0066] The following components were added to a wide-mouth bottle containing 94.8 grams of deionized water while stirring: 3.0 g glycerol, 0.5 g preservatives (propylene glycol, diazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl n-butylamine formate, GERMALL TMPlus, Ashland) and 1.6 g of an emulsion containing 31.7 wt % of the polymer 1 of Example 1. The pH of the resulting composition was raised to 7.0 by the addition of triethanolamine, and 0.1 g of jojoba wax beads (FLORAPEARLS* Jojoba STD Evergreen, Floratech) were added. The resulting composition of Example 5 contained 0.5 wt % of the polymeric rheology modifier, had a Brookfield viscosity of 280 centipoise (cPs), was visually clear (except for the beads), and was able to maintain a suspension of the beads for three weeks.

[0067]

[0068] The leave-on skin facial serum compositions of Examples 6 and 7 were prepared according to Example 5, except that the amount of polymer was varied. The results are shown in Table 5.

[0069] Table 5 shows that small changes in the amount of polymer 1 lead to significant changes in the resulting viscosity.

[0070] Examples 8 to 10: Preparation of Leave-In Color Toners

[0071] The following components were added to a wide-mouth bottle containing 94.8 grams of deionized water while stirring: 3.0 g glycerol, 0.5 g preservatives (propylene glycol, diazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl n-butylamine formate, GERMALL TM Plus, Ashland) and 1.6 g of an emulsion containing 31.7 wt% of the polymer of Example 1. The pH of the resulting dispersion was raised to 6.8 by the addition of triethanolamine. 0.1 g of pigment particles (COLORONA TM SynCranberry synthetic fluorphlogopite, iron oxide, EMD Chemicals.) The resulting composition of Example 8 contained 0.5 wt% of a polymeric rheology modifier, had a Brookfield viscosity of 200 cPs, was homogeneous, and was able to maintain a suspension of particles for three weeks.

[0072] The compositions of Examples 9 and 10 were prepared according to Example 8, except that the amount of polymer was varied. The results are shown in Table 6.

[0073]

[0074] Table 6 shows that small changes in the amount of polymer 1 lead to significant changes in the resulting viscosity.

[0075] Set forth below are non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure.

[0076] Aspect 1: A composition comprising an alkali-swellable copolymer. The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid based on the total weight of monomers in the mixture; 30 to 70 wt% of an ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 Alkyl carboxylate; 15 to 40 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A) based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; wherein R1 is a methyl group or hydrogen, each R2 is independently a methyl group or an ethyl group, and R3 is a linear C 8-14 An alkyl group, x is an integer from 0 to 3, y is an integer from 10 to 40, z is an integer from 0 to 5, and E is a difunctional group that can be -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)- or -(C=O)-. And less than or equal to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group based on the total weight of monomers in the mixture. The composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6. The composition may optionally include a surfactant.

[0077] Aspect 2: The composition according to aspect 1, wherein the composition comprises 0.1 to 10 wt% of the alkali-swellable copolymer.

[0078] Aspect 3: The composition of any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid comprises at least one of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid.

[0079] Aspect 4: A composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the ethylenically unsaturated C 1-2 The alkyl carboxylate includes at least one of ethyl acrylate, ethyl methacrylate, methyl acrylate, or methyl methacrylate.

[0080] Aspect 5: A composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer comprises C 12-14 Methacrylates of linear alcohol ethoxylates.

[0081] Aspect 6: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the multifunctional monomer comprises at least one of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, or diallyl phthalate.

[0082] Aspect 7: The composition of any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is free of residues derived from sulfonate monomers.

[0083] Aspect 8: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the composition comprises greater than 0 to 50 wt % of the surfactant based on the total weight of the composition.

[0084] Aspect 9: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the surfactant is present and comprises an anionic surfactant.

[0085] Aspect 10: The composition according to aspect 9, wherein the anionic surfactant comprises at least one of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium tridecyl ether sulfate, dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt, or alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate sodium salt.

[0086] Aspect 11: The composition according to any one or more of aspects 9 to 10, wherein the anionic surfactant is present in an amount of 0.5 to 30 wt % based on the total weight of the composition.

[0087] Aspect 12: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the surfactant is present and comprises a nonionic surfactant.

[0088] Aspect 13: The composition according to aspect 12, wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises at least one of lauryl alcohol ethoxylate, alkyl aryl polyether alcohol, alkyl polyglucoside or ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymer.

[0089] Aspect 14: The composition of any one or more of Aspects 12 to 13, wherein the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of 0.5 to 15 wt % based on the total weight of the composition.

[0090] Aspect 15: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is the product of aqueous emulsion polymerization.

[0091] Aspect 16: A composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, further comprising at least one of an enzyme, a dispersant polymer, a conditioning polymer, a solvent, a hydrotropic electrolyte, an oxygen bleach, a bleach activator, an inorganic builder, an organic builder, a fatty acid, a fatty acid salt, a silicone fluid, an optical brightener, a dye transfer inhibitor, a dye, a fragrance, a salt or a preservative.

[0092] Aspect 17: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the surfactant is present and comprises a zwitterionic surfactant. The composition may be a personal care product which may comprise the zwitterionic surfactant.

[0093] Aspect 18: The composition of aspect 17, wherein the zwitterionic surfactant comprises at least one of dimethyldodecylamine N-oxide or cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0094] Aspect 19: The composition of any one or more of Aspects 17 to 18, wherein the zwitterionic surfactant is present in an amount of 0.5 to 15 wt % based on the total weight of the composition.

[0095] Aspect 20: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the composition further comprises an insoluble component.

[0096] Aspect 21: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the composition is a personal care cleanser or a leave-on personal care product.

[0097] Aspect 22: The composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, wherein the composition is a cleaning composition. The cleaning composition may be a liquid laundry detergent or a liquid dishwashing detergent.

[0098] Aspect 23: For example, a composition according to any one or more of the preceding aspects, comprising: 0.1 to 10 wt% of an alkali-swellable copolymer, based on the total weight of the composition; and 5 to 50 wt% of at least one of a nonionic surfactant or an anionic surfactant, based on the total weight of the composition. The alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 15 to 50 wt% or 20 to 35 wt% of methacrylic acid and optional acrylic acid, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture, wherein the optional acrylic acid is present in an amount less than or equal to 50 wt% based on the total weight of the methacrylic acid and the optional acrylic acid; 30 to 70 wt% or 35 to 55 wt% of ethyl (meth)acrylate, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; and 15 to 40 wt% or 15 to 35 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A), based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; wherein R1 is a methyl group or hydrogen, each R2 is independently a methyl group or an ethyl group, and R3 is a linear C 12 -14 alkyl groups, x is an integer from 0 to 3, y is an integer from 10 to 40, z is an integer from 0 to 5, and E is a difunctional group which can be -(CH2)-, -(CH2CH2)- or -(C=O)-. And 0.01 to 0.15 wt% of a multifunctional monomer containing more than 1 vinyl group, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture. The alkali swellable copolymer is the product of aqueous emulsion polymerization. The composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6.

[0099] The compositions, methods and articles may alternatively comprise, consist of or consist essentially of any suitable material, step or component disclosed herein. The compositions, methods and articles may additionally or alternatively be formulated to lack or be essentially free of any material (or species), step or component that is otherwise not necessary to achieve the function or purpose of the compositions, methods and articles.

[0100] As used herein, "a", "an", "the", and "at least one" do not indicate a limitation of quantity, and are intended to cover both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, "an element" has the same meaning as "at least one element", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "at least one of" means that the list includes each element individually, as well as combinations of two or more elements of the list and combinations of at least one element of the list with unnamed similar elements. In addition, "composition" includes blends, mixtures, alloys, reaction products, and the like.

[0101] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "or" means "and / or". References throughout the specification to "aspect", "embodiment", "another embodiment", "some embodiments", etc. mean that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, step, or characteristic) described in conjunction with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the described elements may be combined in various embodiments in any suitable manner.

[0102] The endpoints of all ranges involving the same component or characteristic are inclusive of the endpoints, independently combinable, and include all intermediate points and ranges. For example, the range of "up to 25wt% or 5 to 20wt%" includes the endpoints and all intermediate values ​​of the range of "5 to 25wt%", such as 10 to 23wt%, etc. In addition, the stated upper and lower limits can be combined to form a range, such as "5 to 20wt% or 10 to 15wt%" can be combined into a range of "5 to 15wt%" or "10 to 20wt%.

[0103] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0104] Compounds are described using standard nomenclature. For example, any position not substituted by any designated group is understood to have its valency filled by the indicated bond or hydrogen atom. A dash ("-") that is not between two letters or symbols is used to indicate the point of attachment of a substituent. For example, -CHO is attached through the carbon of the carbonyl. As used herein, the term "(meth)acryloyl" encompasses both acryloyl and methacryloyl groups.

[0105] All publications, patent applications, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, if a term in this application contradicts or conflicts with a term in the incorporated reference, the term from this application takes precedence over the conflicting term from the incorporated reference.

[0106] Although specific embodiments have been described, alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents that are not currently foreseen or may not currently be foreseen may occur to the applicant or other skilled in the art. Therefore, the appended claims as filed and as they may be amended are intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and substantial equivalents.

Claims

1. A composition comprising: 0.1 to 10 wt% of an alkali-swellable copolymer, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is derived from a mixture comprising: 20 to 35 wt% of methacrylic acid and optionally acrylic acid based on the total weight of monomers in the mixture, wherein the optional acrylic acid is present in an amount less than or equal to 50 wt% based on the total weight of the methacrylic acid and the optional acrylic acid; 35 to 55 wt% of ethyl (meth)acrylate based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; 15 to 35 wt% of a nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer having formula (A), based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture; Where R 1 is a methyl group, each R 2 are independently a methyl group or an ethyl group, R 3 It is a straight chain C 12-14 An alkyl group, x is an integer from 0 to 3, y is an integer from 10 to 40, z is an integer from 0 to 5, and E is -(C=O)-, wherein the nonionic ethylenically unsaturated surfactant monomer comprises C 12-14 Methacrylates of linear alcohol ethoxylates; and 0.01 to 0.15 wt % of a multifunctional monomer having more than 1 vinyl group, based on the total weight of the monomers in the mixture, the multifunctional monomer comprising at least one of trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane diallyl ether, or diallyl phthalate; and 5 to 50 wt % of at least one of a nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, or zwitterionic surfactant, based on the total weight of the composition; wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is a product of aqueous emulsion polymerization; and wherein the composition has a pH greater than or equal to 6.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali-swellable copolymer is free of residues derived from sulfonate monomers.

3. The composition according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the surfactant comprises the anionic surfactant, and the anionic surfactant comprises at least one of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium tridecyl ether sulfate, dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt or alkyl aryl polyether sulfonate sodium salt.

4. The composition according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the surfactant comprises the nonionic surfactant, and the nonionic surfactant comprises at least one of lauryl alcohol ethoxylate, alkyl aryl polyether alcohol, alkyl polyglucoside or ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymer.

5. The composition of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the surfactant comprises the zwitterionic surfactant, and the zwitterionic surfactant comprises at least one dimethyldodecylamine N-oxide or cocamidopropyl betaine.

6. The composition of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the composition is a cleaning composition or a personal care composition.

7. The composition of any one of claims 1-2, further comprising at least one of an insoluble component, an enzyme, a dispersant polymer, a conditioning polymer, a solvent, a hydrotropic electrolyte, an oxygen bleach, a bleach activator, an inorganic builder, an organic builder, a fatty acid, a silicone fluid, an optical brightener, a dye transfer inhibitor, a dye, a fragrance, or a preservative.

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