Fabric softening composition

Abstract

This text describes novel fabric softening compositions, fabric softeners and conditioners, which comprise a formulation having a polyol (e.g., glycerol) and a nonionic cellulose ether (e.g., hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)) backbone and a plant-based softening agent, the plant-based softening agent comprising one or more agents selected from the group consisting of: a plasticizer, wherein the plasticizer is further selected from the group consisting of isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isodecyl neopentanoate, isodecyl oleate, and diisopropyl adipate, or a partially hydrolyzed plant protein. Methods of manufacture are also contemplated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention contemplates novel fabric softeners and conditioners that incorporate plant and plant-based sources. The formulations described herein include plant and plant-based sources, but in certain aspects (such as clarity and softening) can still be comparable to commercial fabric softeners that utilize synthetic ingredients. In one aspect, the present invention includes formulations having a polyol (e.g., glycerol), a non-ionic cellulose ether (e.g., hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)) backbone, and a plasticizer (e.g., isopropyl palmitate or cationic wheat protein). Background Art

[0002] Fabric softeners are used to make clothes soft, preserve color, and impart a lasting fragrance to clothes. They are widely used in households, laundry services, the textile industry, the hospitality industry, etc. The main active ingredient in conventional fabric softeners is fatty acid ester quaternary ammonium salts, which are cationic surfactants commonly known as TEA-ester quaternary ammonium salts in the market. The fatty components used to produce these cationic active substances can be of animal or plant origin, with the most commonly used being of animal origin. These active substances can improve the soft touch of most fabrics and can control static electricity in textile tissues.

[0003] In recent years, the changing consumer preferences have been continuously driven by the development of new and innovative formulations in the fabric softener market. One of the most important needs that consumers need to address is the demand for more environmentally friendly products. Consumers in the market are now looking for more sustainable products and are becoming increasingly interested in products containing ingredients derived from plants and plant-based sources. However, for any plant-based fabric softener, the challenge lies in finding new active substances and new combinations of ingredients to provide the same or similar appearance and performance advantages that consumers expect from products that usually contain more synthetic ingredients. For example, one of the challenges may be to find active substances and ingredients that result in a clear and transparent final product.

[0004] Therefore, due to the new consumer preferences and demands, there is a need for new plant-based fabric softeners that provide the same quality and performance as traditional non-plant-based softeners currently on the market. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, the present disclosure contemplates novel fabric softeners and conditioners that incorporate plant and plant-based sources and beneficially provide clear and transparent products. For example, the formulations described herein include plant and plant-based sources but in some aspects can still be consistent with commercial fabric softeners that utilize synthetic ingredients while still providing a clear and transparent appearance. In one aspect, the present disclosure includes formulations having a backbone of polyols (e.g., glycerol) and non-ionic cellulose ethers (e.g., hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC)). In terms of performance, it is believed that the formulations described herein can surprisingly provide softness to clothes during the rinse cycle of washing, e.g., when carried out at 40 °C and 20 °C at warm and low temperatures, respectively. And, with regard to softening ability, in at least one aspect, the softeners described herein can soften in a manner consistent with market products that employ synthetic ingredients.

[0006] In one aspect, the plant-based softener formulation uses a backbone that includes a blend of polyols (e.g., glycerol), non-ionic cellulose ethers (e.g., HEC), and plant-based softeners, the plant-based softeners including one or more plasticizers selected from including isopropyl palmitate or cationic wheat protein.

[0007] In one aspect, the plant-based softener formulation uses a backbone that includes a blend of polyols (e.g., glycerol), non-ionic cellulose ethers (e.g., HEC), plasticizers including isopropyl palmitate or cationic wheat protein, and further uses a decan-1-ol surfactant for fragrance emulsification. In this regard, it is believed that decan-1-ol provides a semi-transparent appearance to the product.

[0008] In yet another aspect, to maintain acceptable preservation, the formulation maintains a low pH (2 - 3.5) by adding organic acids (e.g., lactic acid and / or etidronic acid).

[0009] In still another aspect, the present invention contemplates the processing steps required to manufacture the novel plant-based formulations described herein.

[0010] In one aspect, the present invention contemplates a fabric softener composition (Composition 1.0). Composition 1.0 is a fabric softening composition that includes:

[0011] A natural thickener that includes a non-ionic cellulose ether (e.g., HEC)

[0012] A polyol (e.g., glycerol); and

[0013] A plant-based softener that includes one or more agents selected from:

[0014] ● A plasticizer, wherein the plasticizer is further selected from the group consisting of isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isodecyl neopentanoate, isodecyl oleate, and diisopropyl adipate, or

[0015] ● Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (e.g., partially hydrolyzed vegetable protein) (e.g., cationic wheat protein).

[0016] For example, in another aspect, the fabric softening composition of Composition 1.0 comprises the following aspects:

[0017] 1.1 The fabric softening agent composition according to 1.0, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is methyl cellulose ether, hydroxyethyl cellulose ether, or hydroxypropyl cellulose ether (e.g., 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt% of the total composition).

[0018] 1.2 The fabric softening agent composition according to 1.0 or 1.1, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is selected from: hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose; ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, and methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose.

[0019] 1.3 The fabric softening agent composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.2, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC).

[0020] 1.4 The fabric softening agent composition according to any of the foregoing, wherein the amount of the non-ionic cellulose ether is 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt% of the total composition. ((e.g., 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt% of HEC) (e.g., about 0.4% HEC))

[0021] 1.5 The fabric softening agent composition according to any of the foregoing, wherein the polyol is selected from: ethylene glycol, glycerin (glycerol), erythritol, threitol, arabitol, xylitol, ribitol, mannitol, sorbitol, galactitol, fucitol, iditol, inositol, heptitol, isomaltulose, maltitol, lactitol, maltotriol, maltotetrol, polyglycine

[0022] 1.6 The fabric softening composition according to 1.5, wherein the polyol is glycerin (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt%) (e.g., about 1.5 wt%).

[0023] 1.7 The fabric softening composition according to 1.5 or 1.6, wherein the amount of the polyol present is 0.5 wt% - 3.0 wt% of the total composition (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt% of glycerin) (e.g., about 1.5 wt% of glycerin).

[0024] 1.8 The fabric softening composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the fabric softener further comprises an organic acid (e.g., lactic acid or phosphonic acid);

[0025] 1.9 The fabric softener according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the organic acid is selected from lactic acid and phosphonic acid.

[0026] 1.10 The fabric softener according to 1.9, wherein the amount of the organic acid (e.g., lactic acid) is 0.05 wt% to 0.5 wt% (e.g., about 0.3 wt%) of the total composition.

[0027] 1.11 The fabric softener according to 1.10, wherein the organic acid is lactic acid (e.g., 0.05% to 0.5% lactic acid) (e.g., 0.1 wt%) (e.g., 0.3 wt%).

[0028] 1.12 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing, which further comprises a phosphonic chelating agent (e.g., etidronic acid)

[0029] 1.13 The fabric softener composition according to 1.12, wherein the phosphonic chelating agent is etidronic acid.

[0030] 1.14 The fabric composition according to 1.13, wherein the amount of etidronic acid is 0.05 wt% - 0.3 wt% of the total composition (e.g., about 0.1 wt% of the total composition).

[0031] 1.15 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing, wherein the plasticizer is isopropyl palmitate (e.g., in an amount of 0.05 wt% - 0.5 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.1 wt%).

[0032] 1.16 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.15, wherein the amount of the plasticizer is 0.05 wt% - 0.2 wt% of the total composition (e.g., about 0.1 wt%)

[0033] 1.17 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14, wherein the hydrolyzed vegetable protein is obtained from cereals of the Gramineae family, e.g., is partially hydrolyzed corn (maize, corn), wheat, rice, barley, oats or millet protein.

[0034] 1.18 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17, wherein the hydrolyzed vegetable protein is partially hydrolyzed wheat protein or hydrolyzed rice protein.

[0035] 1.19 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.18, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is obtained from wheat, rice, almond, potato, pea, soybean or a combination thereof.

[0036] 1.20 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.19, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is partially hydrolyzed wheat protein, which is substantially gluten-free.

[0037] 1.21 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.19, wherein the partially hydrolyzed plant protein is partially hydrolyzed wheat protein.

[0038] 1.22 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.21, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is selected from: hydrolyzed wheat gluten, almond flour hydrolyzate, wheat protein fatty acid condensate (e.g., sodium cocoyl hydrolyzed wheat protein), and cationic wheat protein hydrolyzate (e.g., lauryl dimethyl hydroxypropyl hydrolyzed wheat protein), hydrolyzed soybean protein, hydrolyzed pea protein, hydrolyzed rice protein, hydrolyzed almond flour, and combinations thereof.

[0039] 1.23 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.22, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is cationic wheat protein (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 1 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.25 wt% of the total composition)

[0040] 1.24 The fabric softener composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.14 or 1.17 to 1.23, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in an amount of 0.1 wt% - 0.5 wt% of the total composition (e.g., about 0.25 wt%).

[0041] 1.25 The fabric softener composition according to any of the foregoing, wherein the fabric softener comprises:

[0042] Hydroxyethyl cellulose (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 1.0 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.4 wt% of the total composition)

[0043] Glycerin (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt% of glycerin) (e.g., about 1.5 wt% of glycerin); and

[0044] Isopropyl palmitate (e.g., in an amount of 0.05 wt% - 0.2 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.1 wt%).

[0045] 1.26 The fabric softening agent composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.26, wherein the fabric softening agent comprises:

[0046] Hydroxyethyl cellulose (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 1.0 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.4 wt% of the total composition);

[0047] Glycerol (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt% of glycerol) (e.g., about 1.5 wt% of glycerol); and

[0048] Cationic wheat protein (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 0.5 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.25 wt% of the total composition).

[0049] 1.27 The fabric softening agent composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.26, wherein the fabric softening agent comprises

[0050] Hydroxyethyl cellulose (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 1.0 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.4 wt% of the total composition)

[0051] Glycerol (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt% of glycerol) (e.g., about 1.5 wt% of glycerol); and

[0052] Isopropyl palmitate (e.g., in an amount of 0.05 wt% - 0.2 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.1 wt%).

[0053] Etidronic acid, the etidronic acid being present in an amount of 0.05 wt% - 0.4 wt% of the total composition (e.g., about 0.1 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.15 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.2 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.3 wt% of the total composition); and

[0054] Water

[0055] 1.28 The fabric softening agent composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.26, wherein the fabric softening agent comprises:

[0056] Hydroxyethyl cellulose (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 1.0 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.4 wt% of the total composition);

[0057] Glycerol (e.g., 1.0 wt% - 2.0 wt% of glycerol) (e.g., about 1.5 wt% of glycerol);

[0058] Cationic wheat protein (e.g., 0.1 wt% - 0.5 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.25 wt% of the total composition).

[0059] Etidronic acid, present in an amount of 0.05 wt% - 0.4 wt% of the total composition (e.g., about 0.1 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.15 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.2 wt% of the total composition) (e.g., about 0.3 wt% of the total composition); and

[0060] Water

[0061] 1.29 The fabric softening composition according to any one of the foregoing, which further comprises an aromatic emulsifier.

[0062] 1.30 The fabric softening composition according to 1.31, wherein the aromatic emulsifier is a linear fatty alcohol.

[0063] 1.31 The fabric softening composition according to 1.31, wherein the linear fatty alcohol is decan-1-ol.

[0064] 1.32 The fabric softening composition according to any one of the foregoing, wherein the plasticizer comprises isopropyl palmitate and does not contain or substantially does not contain cationic wheat protein.

[0065] 1.33 The fabric softening composition according to any one of 1.0 to 1.31, wherein the plasticizer comprises cationic wheat protein and does not contain or substantially does not contain isopropyl palmitate.

[0066] 1.34 The fabric softening composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the composition further comprises a quaternary ammonium compound.

[0067] 1.35 The fabric softening composition according to 1.34, wherein the quaternary ammonium compound is an ester quaternary ammonium salt.

[0068] 1.36 The fabric softening composition according to 1.34, wherein the ester quaternary ammonium salt is selected from: monoester quaternary ammonium salts, diester quaternary ammonium salts, triester quaternary ammonium salts, and combinations thereof.

[0069] 1.37 The fabric softening composition according to 1.34, wherein the quaternary ammonium compound is a polyquaternary ammonium compound.

[0070] 1.38 The fabric softener composition according to 1.37, wherein the polyquaternary ammonium compound is selected from: polyquaternium-1, polyquaternium-2, polyquaternium-3, polyquaternium-4, polyquaternium-5, polyquaternium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquaternium-8, polyquaternium-9, polyquaternium-10, polyquaternium-11, polyquaternium-12, polyquaternium-13, polyquaternium-14, polyquaternium-15, polyquaternium-16, polyquaternium-17, polyquaternium-18, polyquaternium-19, polyquaternium-20, polyquaternium-21, polyquaternium-22, polyquaternium-23, polyquaternium-24, polyquaternium-25, polyquaternium-26, polyquaternium-27, and polyquaternium-28.

[0071] 1.39 The fabric softener composition according to 1.38, wherein the polyquaternary ammonium compound is polyquaternium-7.

[0072] 1.40 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, further comprising a fragrance (e.g., an encapsulated fragrance) (e.g., a fragrance capsule).

[0073] 1.41 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the cloud point evaluation at low temperature results in turbidity at a temperature as low as between -1°C and -4.5°C (e.g., whether or not a fragrance is present).

[0074] 1.42 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the suspended particles are invisible.

[0075] 1.43 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the viscosity of the softener is between 70 - 180 cps.

[0076] 1.44 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the softener has a phabrometer score higher than 3.0 (e.g., between 3.0 - 4.0).

[0077] 1.45 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the NTU (nephelometric turbidity unit) is between 1.8 - 3.5 (e.g., between 1.95 - 3.45).

[0078] 1.46 The fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, comprising lactic acid and etidronic acid (e.g., 0.05% - 0.5% lactic acid and 0.05% - 0.5% etidronic acid) (e.g., about 0.3% lactic acid and about 0.15% etidronic acid) (e.g., about 0.3% lactic acid and about 0.2% etidronic acid) (e.g., about 0.3% lactic acid and about 0.3% etidronic acid).

[0079] 1.47 A fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, which comprises lactic acid and octanediol (e.g., 0.05%-0.5% lactic acid and 0.05%-0.5% octanediol) (e.g., about 0.3% lactic acid and 0.3% octanediol).

[0080] 1.48 A fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, wherein the fabric softener is free or substantially free of quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0081] A fabric softener composition according to any one of the foregoing compositions, which further comprises a synthetic preservative (e.g., isothiazolinone) (e.g., a mixture of isothiazolinones of OIT / MIT / CIT). In yet another aspect, the present invention contemplates a method of manufacturing any fabric softener of composition 1.0 etc. In one aspect, the manufacturing method. In this regard, any fragrance added to the fabric softener exhibits acceptable dispersibility when added partially during the manufacturing process.

[0082] In one aspect, the manufacture of fabric softener composition 1.0 etc. can be accomplished using one or two parts of water in DI water between 20 and 50 °C. Using one part of water at room temperature (29 - 31 °C) is the most recommended process. The stirring for acceptable ingredient incorporation can be set between 100 and 400 rpm. The order of addition of ingredients may affect the final appearance of the product, resulting in turbidity or transparency. In one aspect, fabric softener composition 1.0 etc. can be made by first adding glycerol and hydroxyethyl cellulose to the total amount of water. Then caustic soda can be added to achieve the base pH, which helps the good hydration of hydroxyethyl cellulose and thus provides good consistency to the product. In one aspect, lactic acid and etidronic acid can then be added, which may help to lower the pH and preserve the product. In one aspect, a pre-mixture of fragrance with decanol and isopropyl palmitate can be added to the total batch. Adding the pre-mixture helps to maintain good transparency of the final product. The last step can be to add color and defoamer. In a particular aspect, during all manufacturing steps, the stirring is maintained between 100 and 400 rpm.

[0083] As used herein, the term "fabric softener" or "fabric softener composition" or "fabric conditioner" refers to a product added to the wash or rinse cycle of a laundry process for the express or primary purpose of imparting one or more conditioning benefits. The fabric conditioning compositions employed in accordance with the present invention may be provided in the form of liquid and / or solid formulations. For solid formulations, the fabric conditioning composition, for example, any one of Composition 1.0 etc., may take the form of a dilutable fabric softener, which may be a molded solid, tablet, powder, block, bar, or any other solid fabric softener form known to those skilled in the art.

[0084] For solid or liquid formulations, the fabric conditioning composition may also take the form of a fabric softener, which is intended for application to articles without substantial dilution and is sold in any form known to those skilled in the art as a potential vehicle for delivering such fabric softener to the industrial and institutional markets. For example, powders directly applied to fabrics are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. However, these examples are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0085] As used herein, "substantially free" of a material may refer to a composition in which the material is present in an amount less than 0.1 wt%, less than 0.05 wt%, less than 0.01 wt%, less than 0.005 wt%, less than 0.001 wt% or less than 0.0001 wt% based on the total weight of the composition. Detailed Description

[0086] Hydrolyzed vegetable protein

[0087] In at least one aspect, Composition 1.0 etc., including hydrolyzed vegetable protein, is derived from plants, such as from edible plant parts, such as proteins from wheat, rice, almonds, potatoes, peas, soybeans or combinations thereof, such as proteins from grains (such as corn, wheat, rice, barley, oats and millet). In certain embodiments, the hydrolyzed vegetable protein is derived from wheat or rice.

[0088] Hydrolyzed wheat protein is generally obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat protein using endoproteases and exoproteases. Hydrolyzed wheat protein can also be obtained by acid or base hydrolysis. Methods for preparing hydrolyzed wheat protein will be known to those skilled in the art of protein chemistry. However, hydrolyzed wheat protein is also commercially available, such as W20, Gluadin W40 from BASF Corporation, and from Ikeda Corporation Or COLTIDE HQS of Croda. Gluadin W20 is a partially hydrolyzed product obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat gluten. It contains at least 20.0% dry matter. Gluadin W40 is a partially hydrolyzed product obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat gluten. It contains at least 40.0% dry matter.

[0089] In one aspect, 1.0 and the like fabric compositions incorporate wheat protein cations with the trade name WQ PP. In this regard, WQ PP is a quaternized protein hydrolyzed wheat protein, in which the care effect of the cationic substance is combined with the positive dermatological effect of the protein derivative. In one aspect, the typical concentration used is 0.25 wt% - 5 wt% of the total fabric softening composition. The chemical composition is based on a quaternized wheat protein hydrolyzate from plant wheat gluten (INCI: Lauryl ammonium hydroxypropyl hydrolyzed wheat protein), which is also known as protein hydrolyzate, wheat germ, [3-(dodecyldimethylammonio)-2-hydroxypropyl], chloride.

[0090] In another embodiment, the hydrolyzed plant protein is made from gluten-free processed wheat protein.

[0091] The hydrolyzed plant protein used in the compositions and methods herein is not completely hydrolyzed and is therefore sometimes referred to as "partially hydrolyzed" to emphasize this point. "Partially hydrolyzed" means that at least some (but not all) peptide bonds are hydrolyzed.

[0092] In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in the composition in an amount of 0.01 wt% to 3 wt%. In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in the composition in an amount of 0.1 wt% to 3 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 2 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 1 wt%. In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in the composition in an amount of 0.05 wt% to 1 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 0.5 wt%. In further embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in the composition in an amount of 0.5 wt% to 3 wt%, or 0.5 wt% to 2 wt%, or 0.5 wt% to 1 wt%. In still further embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the hydrolyzed plant protein is present in the composition in an amount of 1 wt% to 3 wt%, or 1 wt% to 2 wt%.

[0093] In one arrangement, the composition of the present invention comprises hydrolyzed wheat protein and hydrolyzed rice protein. In this arrangement, the hydrolyzed wheat protein and the hydrolyzed rice protein may be present in the composition in the amounts defined above. Optionally, based on the total weight of the composition, the total amount of the hydrolyzed wheat protein and the hydrolyzed rice protein in the composition is 0.1 wt% to 3 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 2 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 1 wt%, or 0.1 wt% to 0.5 wt%. In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the composition, the total amount of the hydrolyzed wheat protein and the hydrolyzed rice protein in the composition is 1 wt% to 3 wt%, or 1 wt% to 2 wt%.

[0094] Fabric softening composition

[0095] In some embodiments, the fabric softening composition such as Composition 1.0 further comprises a quaternary ammonium compound. Among them, in some aspects, the fabric softening composition such as Composition 1.0 further comprises a biodegradable fatty acid quaternary ammonium compound, which is called esterquat. As used herein, "esterquat" may be a quaternary ammonium compound having two long (C(16)-C(18)) fatty acid chains, which has 2 weak ester bonds. In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound imparts fabric softening properties to the FS composition. The fabric care composition such as Composition 1.0 contains one or more fabric softeners. In certain embodiments, the fabric softener is a quaternary ammonium compound selected from the following: esterquat, imidazolium quaternary ammonium salt, di-fatty diamide methyl sulfate, bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethyl sulfate fatty acid ester, 1,2-bis(acyloxy)-3-trimethyl propane ammonium chloride, N,N-bis(stearoyloxyethyl)N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, N,N-bis(tallowoyloxyethyl)N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, N,N-bis(stearoyloxyethyl)N-(2-hydroxyethyl)N-methyl methyl sulfate, 1,2-bis(stearoyloxy)3-trimethyl propane ammonium chloride, dicanola dimethyl ammonium chloride, di(tallow)dimethyl ammonium chloride, dicanola dimethyl methyl sulfate, 1-methyl-1-acylimidoethyl-2-stearoyl imidazoline ammonium methyl sulfate, 1-tallowamido-2-tallowoyl imidazoline, dipalm methyl hydroxyethyl methyl sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0096] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound is derived from the reaction of an alkanolamine and a fatty acid derivative, followed by quaternization (fully or partially) of the product. In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound is a dialkyl ester of triethanol methyl sulfate. In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound comprises a compound having the structure of Formula I:

[0097]

[0098] Wherein:

[0099] Q is a carboxyl group, and its structure is selected from -OCO-; and -COO;

[0100] R 1 is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having 8 to 22 carbon atoms. Preferably, C 10 to C 20 alkyl;

[0101] R 2 is selected from Q-R 1 and -OH;

[0102] q, r, s, t each independently represent a number from 1 to 3; and

[0103] X -a is an anion having a valence of "a". Preferred anion materials include chloride, bromide, and methyl sulfate.

[0104] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a quaternary ammonium compound of formula I, wherein one of the R 2 groups is Q-R 1 . Further embodiments provide a quaternary ammonium compound of formula I, wherein both of the two R 2 groups are Q-R 1 . Still further embodiments provide a quaternary compound of formula I, wherein both of the two R 2 groups are -OH.

[0105] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound includes a mixture of monoester, diester, and triester. In some embodiments, the normalized percentage of the monoester compound in the quaternary ammonium compound is 28% to 34%; the normalized percentage of the diester compound is 55% to 62%, and the normalized percentage of the triester compound is 8% to 14%, all percentages being by weight.

[0106] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound is a low-polyester-based quaternary ammonium salt, which can be obtained by reacting an alkanolamine with (i) a polycarboxylic acid; and (ii) a fatty alcohol or a fatty acid or a mixture of a fatty alcohol and a fatty acid, followed by partial quaternization to form a mixture of a low-polyester amine and an ester-based quaternary ammonium salt. In some embodiments, the alkanolamine is triethanolamine. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid is a polycarboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid is a dicarboxylic acid. An example of such an ester-based quaternary ammonium salt material is the ester-based quaternary ammonium salt commercially available from Kao Chemicals or Stepan.

[0107] In one aspect, ester quats can be produced by reacting about 1.65 (1.5 to 1.75) moles of fatty acid methyl ester with one mole of alkanolamine and then quaternizing with dimethyl sulfate (further details of this preparation method are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,915,867, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference). Using this ratio, the amount of each of the mono-ester quats, di-ester quats, and tri-ester quats in the composition can be controlled. In certain embodiments, the alkanolamine includes triethanolamine. In certain embodiments, it is desirable to increase the amount of di-ester quats and minimize the amount of tri-ester quats to increase the softening ability of the composition. By selecting a ratio of about 1.65, the tri-ester quats can be minimized while increasing the mono-ester quats.

[0108] Mono-ester quats are more soluble in water than tri-ester quats. Depending on the AI, more or less mono-ester quats are needed. At higher AI levels (generally at least 7%), more mono-ester quats are needed compared to tri-ester quats so that the ester quats are more soluble in water so that the ester quats can be delivered to the fabric during use. At lower AI levels (generally at most 3%), fewer mono-ester quats are needed because during use, it is desirable for the ester quats to leave the solution and deposit on the fabric to achieve fabric softening. Depending on the AI, the amounts of mono-ester quats and tri-ester quats are adjusted to balance the solubility and delivery of the ester quats.

[0109] In certain aspects, the reaction product is 50 - 65 wt% di-ester quats, 20 - 40 wt% mono-esters, and 25 wt% or less tri-esters. In other embodiments, the amount of di-ester quats is 52 - 60, 53 - 58, or 53 - 55 wt%. In other embodiments, the amount of mono-ester quats is 30 - 40 or 35 - 40 wt%. In other embodiments, the amount of tri-ester quats is 1 - 12 or 8 - 11 wt%.

[0110] As described above, the percentages (by weight) of the monoester, diester, and triester quaternary ammonium salts are determined by the quantitative analysis method described in the following publication: "Characterisation of quatemized triethanoiamine esters (esterquats) by HPLC, HRCGC and NMR" by A. J. Wilkes, C. Jacobs, G. Walraven, and J. M. Talbot - Colgate Palmolive R&D Inc. - 4th World Surfactant Congress, Barceione, 3 - 7 VI 1996, page 382, which is incorporated herein by reference. The weight percentages of the monoester, diester, and triester quaternary ammonium salts measured on the dry sample are normalized on the basis of 100%. Normalization is required because of the presence of 10% to 15% (by weight) of non - quaternized materials such as ester amines and free fatty acids. Thus, the normalized weight percentage refers to the pure esterquat component of the raw material. In other words, for the weight percentage of each of the monoester quaternary ammonium salt, diester quaternary ammonium salt, and triester quaternary ammonium salt, the weight % is based on the total amount of the monoester quaternary ammonium salt, diester quaternary ammonium salt, and triester quaternary ammonium salt in the composition.

[0111] In certain embodiments, based on the total weight of the fatty acids, the percentage of saturated fatty acids is 45 - 75%. Esterquat compositions using such percentages of saturated fatty acids are not affected by the processing drawbacks of 100% saturated materials. When used for fabric softening, these compositions provide good consumer - perceived fabric softness while maintaining good fragrance delivery. In other embodiments, the amount is at least 50, 55, 60, 65, or 70 up to 75%. In other embodiments, the amount does not exceed 70, 65, 60, 55, or 50 down to 45%. In other embodiments, the amount is 50 - 70%, 55 - 65%, or 57.5 - 67.5%. In one embodiment, by weight of the fatty acids, the percentage of the saturated fatty acid chain is about 62.5%. In this embodiment, this can be obtained from a 50:50 ratio of stearic acid:oleic acid.

[0112] Hard fatty acids mean that the fatty acids are nearly completely hydrogenated. In some embodiments, the completely hydrogenated fatty acids have an iodine value of 10 or less. Soft means that the fatty acids are not more than partially hydrogenated. In some embodiments, the not-more-than-partially hydrogenated fatty acids have an iodine value of at least 40. In some embodiments, the iodine value of the partially hydrogenated fatty acids is from 40 to 55. The iodine value can be measured by ASTM D5554-95(2006). In some embodiments, the ratio of hard fatty acids to soft fatty acids is from 70:30 to 40:60, and in other embodiments, the ratio is from 60:40 to 40:60 or from 55:45 to 45:55. In one embodiment, the ratio is about 50:50. Since in these specific embodiments, each of the hard fatty acids and the soft fatty acids covers a different range of saturation (hydrogenation), the actual percentage of the fully saturated fatty acids can vary.

[0113] In some embodiments, soft tallow contains about 47 wt% of saturated chains. The percentage of saturated fatty acids can be achieved by preparing ester quaternary ammonium salts using a mixture of fatty acids, or can be achieved by blending ester quaternary ammonium salts with different amounts of saturated fatty acids.

[0114] The fatty acids can be any fatty acids used to manufacture ester quaternary ammonium salts for fabric softening. Examples of fatty acids include, but are not limited to, coconut oil, palm oil, tallow, rapeseed oil, fish oil, or chemically synthesized fatty acids. In some embodiments, the fatty acid is tallow. For example, the ester quaternary ammonium salt can be a hydrogenated tallow ester quaternary ammonium salt such as TETRANYL L1 / 90, which is commercially available from Kao chemicals, Tokyo, Japan.

[0115] Although the ester quaternary ammonium salt can be provided in solid form, it is usually present in a solvent in liquid form. In solid form, the ester quaternary ammonium salt can be transferred from a dryer sheet in a laundry. In some embodiments, the solvent includes water. In one aspect, the ester quaternary ammonium salt can be considered a cationic surfactant. In some embodiments, the fabric care composition is substantially free of surfactants other than the fabric softener. For example, the fabric care composition is substantially free of surfactants other than the ester quaternary ammonium salt. In some embodiments, the fabric care composition is substantially free of detergency surfactants. In another embodiment, the fabric care composition is substantially free of anionic surfactants.

[0116] AI refers to the active weight of the combined amount of mono-ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-ester quaternary ammonium salts, and tri-ester quaternary ammonium salts. The delivered AI refers to the mass (in grams) of the ester quaternary ammonium salts used in the laundry load. The load is 3.5 kg of fabric weight. As the load size changes, e.g., using a smaller or larger size load in a washing machine, the delivered AI is adjusted proportionally. In some embodiments, the delivered AI is 2.8 to 8 grams per load. In other embodiments, the delivered AI is 2.8 to 7, 2.8 to 6, 2.8 to 5, 3 to 8, 3 to 7, 3 to 6, 3 to 5, 4 to 8, 4 to 7, 4 to 6, or 4 to 5 grams per load.

[0117] Cationic polymer

[0118] In some embodiments, the fabric softening composition such as Composition 1.0 etc. may further comprise one or more cationic polymers. In some aspects, the fabric softening composition such as Composition 1.0 etc. may further comprise amine salts or quaternary ammonium salts, e.g., polyquaternary ammonium polymers. Preferably, they are quaternary ammonium salts. They include cationic derivatives of natural polymers such as some polysaccharides, gums (e.g., cationic guar gum), starches, and certain cationic synthetic polymers such as polymers and copolymers of cationic vinyl pyridine or vinyl pyridine halides.

[0119] In some aspects, the polymer is water-soluble, e.g., to an extent of at least 0.5 wt% at 20 °C. Preferably, they have a molecular weight of from about 600 to about 1,000,000, more preferably from about 600 to about 500,000, even more preferably from about 800 to about 300,000, and particularly from about 1000 to 10,000. As a general rule, the lower the molecular weight, the higher the degree of substitution (D.S.) of the cation (usually a quaternary group), which is desirable, or correspondingly, the lower the degree of substitution, the higher the molecular weight required, but there does not appear to be an exact relationship. Generally, the cationic polymer should have a charge density of at least about 0.01 meq / gm., preferably from about 0.1 to about 8 meq / gm, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 7, and even more preferably from about 2 to about 6. Suitable and desirable cationic polymers are disclosed in the following document: "CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary", Fourth Edition, Editors: J.M. Nikitakis et al., Publisher: Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, 1991, which is incorporated herein by reference. In one aspect, the fabric softener composition of Composition 1.0 etc. can comprise a polyquaternary ammonium compound selected from the following: polyquaternium-1, polyquaternium-2, polyquaternium-3, polyquaternium-4, polyquaternium-5, polyquaternium-6, polyquaternium-7, polyquaternium-8, polyquaternium-9, polyquaternium-10, polyquaternium-11, polyquaternium-12, polyquaternium-13, polyquaternium-14, polyquaternium-15, polyquaternium-16, polyquaternium-17, polyquaternium-18, polyquaternium-19, polyquaternium-20, polyquaternium-21, polyquaternium-22, polyquaternium-23, polyquaternium-24, polyquaternium-25, polyquaternium-26, polyquaternium-27, and polyquaternium-28.

[0120] In one aspect, the cationic polymer is a co-softening agent. The co-softening agent can be a polyquaternium polymer, for example, a cationic polyquaternium polymer. According to one embodiment, the co-softening agent is a stable, water-soluble and liquid polyquaternium polymer. In one aspect, for example, the co-softening agent can be polyquaternium-7. Polyquaternium-7 has a CAS number: 26590-05-6, and an empirical formula: (C8H16NC3H5NOCl)x. Polyquaternium-7 is a polymeric quaternary ammonium salt composed of acrylamide and dimethyldiallylammonium chloride monomers. Polyquaternium-7 is commercially available as NOVERITE 300 from Lubrizol Corporation, Wickliffe, Ohio, and as FLOCARE L.S737 from SNF Floerger, Andrezieux, France.

[0121] In one embodiment, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition contains up to 0.30 wt% of the co-softening agent (e.g., polyquaternium-7). In other embodiments, the fabric care composition contains 0.05 wt% to 0.25 wt% of the co-softening agent or 0.05 wt% to 0.20 wt% of the co-softening agent. For example, the fabric care composition can contain 0.05 wt% to 0.25 wt% of polyquaternium-7.

[0122] In another embodiment, the amount of the co-softening agent in the fabric care composition can be determined by the amount of the fabric softening agent to be replaced. That is, the inventors surprisingly found a method that reduces the content of the fabric softening agent (e.g., ester quaternary ammonium salt) in a known fabric care composition having established performance characteristics (e.g., softness, fragrance delivery, ease of ironing, reduction of shrinkage, dispersion, etc.) by replacing it with a co-softening agent (e.g., PQ7), while maintaining similar or superior performance characteristics.

[0123] Plasticizer

[0124] In some embodiments, Composition 1.0 etc. can include but are not limited to plant-based plasticizers selected from: isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isodecyl neopentanoate (such as obtained commercially under the brand name Schercemol TM 105 Ester obtained commercially from Lubrizol Corporation (Wickliffe, Ohio)), isodecyl oleate, and diisopropyl adipate (such as obtained commercially under the brand name Schercemol TM DIA Ester obtained commercially from Lubrizol Corporation (Wickliffe, Ohio)).

[0125] In some embodiments, the composition of Composition 1.0 etc. includes at least two plant-based plasticizers.

[0126] Suitable plasticizers can be provided in solid, liquid, or emulsion form depending on the specific parameters of the application. Like tallow, in one aspect, the role of the plasticizer component is to lower the melting temperature of the composition.

[0127] Chelating agent

[0128] A chelating agent, or "sequestering agent", is a molecule capable of forming a stable complex with metal ions. Thus, in hard water, calcium and magnesium ions are inactivated and the water is effectively softened. A fabric care composition of 1.0 etc. can comprise any one selected from the following: phosphonic chelating agents (e.g., etidronic acid (1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid)), citric acid (CA), EDTA, hydroxyaminopolycarboxylic acids (HACA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulfate (THPS), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), and glutamic acid-diacetic acid (GLDA).

[0129] Water

[0130] A fabric care composition of 1.0 etc. can comprise an aqueous carrier. For example, the fabric care composition can comprise water as the carrier. In certain embodiments, by weight of the composition, the amount of water is at least 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%. In one embodiment, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition comprises 25% by weight or more of water. In other embodiments, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition comprises 50% by weight or more of water or 75% by weight or more of water.

[0131] In some embodiments, the fabric care composition can be a low-water or "concentrate" formulation for dilution before use. In such embodiments, the fabric care composition comprises a lower amount of the aqueous carrier. In certain embodiments, by weight of the composition, the amount of water does not exceed 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 15%, or 10%. For example, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition can comprise 50% by weight or less of water or 30% by weight or less of water.

[0132] The fabric care composition can also comprise a small amount of other components commonly used in fabric care compositions to enhance the appearance or performance of the fabric care composition. For example, the fabric care composition can comprise thickeners, fragrances, preservatives, colorants (such as dyes or pigments), bluing agents, bactericides, and opacifiers.

[0133] In some embodiments, the fabric care composition must be easy to pour by the end user. Thus, for ready-to-use fabric care compositions, the viscosity of the fabric care composition should not exceed 500 centipoise (cP), preferably not exceed 250 cP, and for fabric care compositions to be diluted before use, the viscosity should not exceed 10,000 cP. In one embodiment, unless otherwise stated, the fabric care composition has a pour viscosity of 30 to 500 cP or 50 to 200 cP, and the viscosity is measured at 25 °C at 50 rpm using a Brookfield RVTD digital viscometer with spindle #2.

[0134] Polymer

[0135] In some embodiments, fabric softeners such as Composition 1.0 can include polyethylene glycol polymers or polyethylene glycol alkyl ether polymers. In some embodiments, the polyethylene glycol polymers or polyethylene glycol alkyl ether polymers prevent the gelation of the composition. As used herein, the polyethylene glycol polymer has a molecular weight of at least about 200 and at most about 8,000. Useful polymers include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol methyl ether polymers sold by Aldrich Chemicals. The useful amount range of the polymer in the composition is from about 0.1 wt% to about 5 wt%. A range of about 0.5 wt% to about 1.5 wt% is preferred.

[0136] Thickener

[0137] To adjust the viscosity, fabric care compositions such as Composition 1.0 can include one or more thickeners. The one or more thickeners can include water-soluble and high molecular weight cationic polymer thickeners. For example, the thickener can be a crosslinked cationic polymer such as FLOSOFT DP200. FLOSOFT DP200 is commercially available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals and is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,864,223 to Smith et al. FLOSOFT DP200 is a water-soluble crosslinked cationic polymer polymerized from 5 to 100 mole percent of cationic vinyl addition monomers, 0 to 95 mole percent of acrylamide, and 70 to 300 ppm of a bifunctional vinyl addition monomer crosslinker.

[0138] Other suitable thickeners are water-soluble crosslinked cationic vinyl polymers crosslinked with a crosslinking agent of a bifunctional vinyl addition monomer, the level of the crosslinking agent being from 70 to 300 ppm, preferably from 75 to 200 ppm, and most preferably from 80 to 150 ppm. These polymers are further described in U.S. Patent No. 4,806,345, and other polymers that may be used are disclosed in WO 90 / 12862. Generally, such polymers are prepared as water-in-oil emulsions, where the crosslinked polymer is dispersed in a mineral oil, which may contain a surfactant. During the manufacture of the finished product, upon contact with the aqueous phase, the emulsion inverts, causing the water-soluble polymer to swell. The most preferred thickener may be a crosslinked copolymer of quaternary ammonium acetate or methacrylate and acrylamide comonomers. The thickener can provide long-term stability of the fabric care composition during storage and allow the presence of relatively high levels of electrolytes without affecting the stability of the composition. In addition, the fabric care composition remains stable when subjected to shear forces. In certain embodiments, the amount of such thickened polymer is at least 0.001 wt 3 / 4. In other embodiments, the amount is from 0.001 to 0.35 wt%.

[0139] In one aspect, the thickener of the fabric softener composition such as Composition 1.0 etc. comprises a cellulose ether substrate. In one aspect, the cellulose ether substrate for forming the modified cellulose ether for Composition 1.0 etc. can be any nonionic water-soluble cellulose ether substrate, such as, for example, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, and methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. In one aspect, the cellulose ether substrate is hydroxyethyl cellulose.

[0140] The amount of nonionic substituents (such as methyl, hydroxyethyl, or hydroxypropyl) of the substrate does not seem to be important as long as there is sufficient amount to ensure that the cellulose ether substrate is water-soluble.

[0141] The cellulose ether substrate to be modified preferably has a low to medium molecular weight, i.e., less than about 800,000, and preferably between about 20,000 and 500,000, more preferably between 20,000 and 100,000. In some aspects, based on the weight of the total composition, the cellulose ether substrate (e.g., HEC) can preferably be at most about 0.8%, such as, for example, from 0.1% to 0.6% (e.g., about 0.4 wt%) in order to provide an acceptable viscosity level over time.

[0142] In one embodiment, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition comprises 0.5 wt% or less of a thickener. In other embodiments, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition comprises 0.1 wt% or less of a thickener or 0.05 wt% or less of a thickener.

[0143] Fragrances, perfumes, colors, and dyes

[0144] In one aspect, Composition 1.0 etc. can contain one or more fragrances, essential oils or perfumes. As used herein, the term "fragrance" is used in its ordinary sense to refer to and include any water-insoluble fragrant substance or mixture of substances, including natural (i.e., obtained by extracting flowers, herbs, blossoms or plants), artificial (i.e., mixtures of natural oils or oil components) and synthetically produced odoriferous substances. As used herein, a fragrance or perfume refers to an odoriferous material capable of imparting a desired fragrance to a fabric, and encompasses conventional materials commonly used in detergent compositions to provide a pleasant fragrance and / or counteract malodors. Fragrances are typically in a liquid state at ambient temperature, but solid fragrances can also be used. Fragrance materials include but are not limited to materials such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, etc., which are commonly used to impart a pleasant fragrance to laundry compositions. Naturally occurring vegetable oils and animal oils are also commonly used as components of fragrances.

[0145] Composition 1.0 etc. can also contain perfumes. As used herein, the term "perfume" is used in its ordinary sense to refer to and include any water-insoluble substance or mixture of substances, including natural (i.e., obtained by extracting flowers, herbs, blossoms or plants), artificial (i.e., mixtures of natural oils or oil components) and synthetically produced odoriferous substances. Generally, a perfume is a complex mixture or blend of various organic compounds, such as alcohols, aldehydes, ethers, aromatic compounds and varying amounts of essential oils (e.g., turpentine), which essential oils themselves are volatile, odoriferous compounds and are also used to dissolve other components of the perfume.

[0146] The fabric care composition can contain free fragrance, encapsulated fragrance or a mixture of both. In one aspect, the fabric softening composition of 1.0 etc. contains fragrance capsules.

[0147] In other embodiments, the fabric care composition can be provided as a fragrance-free composition. The amount of fragrance can be any desired amount, depending on the user's preference. In certain embodiments, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the total amount of fragrance is from 0.3 wt% to 3 wt%. The fragrance can be in free form, encapsulated or both.

[0148] Preservatives

[0149] Fabric care compositions such as Composition 1.0 etc. may further comprise one or more organic acids, such as lactic acid or phosphonic acid. For example, the fabric care composition may comprise a preservative system that includes a combination of food-grade lactic acid and aminotrimethylphosphonic acid. In certain embodiments, the fabric care composition may further comprise isothiazolinone as a preservative. For example, one or more preservatives may comprise an (OIT / MIT / CIT) isothiazolinone mixture. Suitable isothiazolinone preservatives include those sold under the trademark KATHON DP3 and available from Rohm & Haas.

[0150] In one embodiment, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition such as Composition 1.0 etc. comprises 0.35 wt% or less of the preservative system. In other embodiments, based on the total weight of the fabric care composition, the fabric care composition comprises 0.15 wt% or less of the preservative or 0.10 wt% or less of the preservative.

[0151] Nonionic surfactant

[0152] In certain aspects, fabric softener compositions such as Composition 1.0 etc. may contain a nonionic surfactant as a fabric softening component. In one aspect, the nonionic surfactant may be suitable as a rinse aid surfactant.

[0153] The nonionic surfactant may be, for example, a fatty alcohol polyglycol ether or a fatty alcohol ethoxylate, an alkylphenol ethoxylate, a copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, an amine oxide, an alkylamine, an alkanolamine, a polyglycerol ester, an alkyl polyglucoside, and a fatty acid N-alkylglucamide. Preferred nonionics are fatty alcohol polyglycol ethers or fatty alcohol ethoxylates. In one aspect, Composition 1.0 etc. includes a nonionic surfactant (e.g., a fatty alcohol polyglycol ether) in an amount of 1.0 wt% - 5.0 wt% (e.g., about 3.0 wt%) of the total composition.

[0154] A class of preferred nonionic surfactants are alkyl chains in the range of C10 to C18 linked to repeating ethoxylate groups; most preferably, the alkyl chain has a chain length in the range of C12 to C15. It will be understood that the melting point of the nonionic is affected by the chain length or the nature of the chain length (i.e., the branching and number of ethoxylate / propoxylate groups).

[0155] The greater the number of repeating ethoxylate groups, the greater the melting point of the nonionic surfactant. Preferred nonionic surfactants are C10 to C18 alkyl chains covalently bonded to at least 40 EO; the linkage between the ethoxylate and the alkyl chain can be an ester (fatty alcohol ethoxylate) or an ether bond (fatty alcohol polyglycol ether).

[0156] The present invention will now be described in connection with the following non-limiting examples. Unless otherwise stated, all percentages of composition components given in this specification are on a 100% weight basis, based on the total composition or formulation weight.

[0157] It will be understood that in some cases, one ingredient can perform multiple functions.

[0158] As is customary in the art, the compositions and formulations provided herein are described and claimed in combination with their ingredients. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the ingredients may react with each other in some cases such that the true composition of the final formulation may not exactly correspond to the ingredients listed. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the invention extends to the products of the combinations of the ingredients listed.

[0159] Ranges used throughout are used as shorthand expressions for each and every value within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the endpoint of the range. Additionally, all references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event of a conflict between the definitions in the present disclosure and those of the cited references, the present disclosure shall control.

[0160] Examples

[0161] Example 1

[0162] Softening, pH, and viscosity properties compared to the synthetic softener (Polyquaternium-7) of test formulations 1-5

[0163] The pH, viscosity, appearance, and softening properties of various formulated plant-based ingredients were compared to a synthetic softener: Polyquaternium-7. The formulations were named "1-5" and, as shown in Table 1, their characteristics are given in Table 1B.

[0164] The prototype using HEC showed a viscosity as high as 100 cps. Thus, this thickener helps to achieve the target viscosity of 100 - 180 cps. Options 2 and 4 contain cationic guar gum and exhibit very slight turbidity. This is thought to be due to incomplete dispersion of this gum. In terms of performance, Option 3 (using glycerol / isopropyl palmitate backbone as the softener) and Option 5 (using glycerol / cationic wheat protein as the softener) showed comparable softening performance compared to a market softener that does not use a plant-based softener. The softness was tested using an internal panel and a phabrometer, and the results are detailed in Table 1B. In the consumer panel for softness, the market softener was scored "46". When testing softness using a phabrometer, the market softener was scored "3.1" and the sample containing only the detergent was scored "2.4".

[0165] The phabrometer test is used to quantify the sensory perception in contact with human skin. The principle of the phabrometer system is to insert / extract a circular fabric through a nozzle. All the information related to the fabric by hand is reflected in the resulting load-displacement extraction curve. The instrument provides a final softness score between 1 and 10, and a significant test of sample differences is performed based on the instrument model significance and the differences between samples judged by the panel significance model. Compared with the detergent, options 3, 5 and the market softener show excellent softening performance, and the performance among them is consistent.

[0166] The softening performance is tested by phabrometer (SOP) and internal panel tests. The internal panel test uses various commercial dryers. The treated towels are evaluated by an internal untrained panel, where a pair of towels is presented - the softer towel = 2, and the other towel = 1. Each test formulation is compared with the other test formulations 8 times. The softness of each prototype is defined according to the final rate. Statistical comparisons are made to determine significance, and the scores are listed in Table 1B.

[0167] The best prototypes identified from this experiment are options 3 and 5 in Table 1. These options contain glycerin and isopropyl palmitate or cationic wheat protein. The last formulation is actually a positive control because it uses polyquaternium-7, which is a proven synthetic softener.

[0168] Table 1

[0169]

[0170] *All values in Table 1 are provided as wt% of the total composition. Water is not listed but is included in Formulations 1-5 and the positive control for balance.

[0171] Table 1B

[0172]

[0173] Example 2

[0174] Turbidity

[0175] The dispersibility of various fragrances was tested in the 5 prototypes described in Table 1 above. The turbidity of the evaluation samples (in NTU, Table 2) and their cloud points at hot and cold temperatures were considered. On the one hand, considering that the limit value of NTU (nephelometric turbidity unit) in cleaning products is less than 5.0, the turbidity values of all the tested samples were very low. The turbidity measurement was carried out using a 2100Q portable turbidimeter, which measures the intensity of the light scattered at 90 degrees when the light beam passes through the liquid sample, thus giving a direct response in NTU. NTU is the unit for measuring the lack of transparency of a liquid and is used in water and sewage treatment plants, such as ocean research. For example, the turbidity of water containing 1 mg of finely divided silica per liter is 1 NTU. The water to be measured is placed in a standard container. The light beam passes through the water and hits the sensor on the other side of the container. A second sensor is installed at a right angle to the light beam, thus measuring the light scattered by the particles in the water. According to the ratio of the light intensities of the two sensors, the turbidity in NTU can be calculated.

[0176] Test Formulations 2 and 4 - using cationic guar gum - were not entirely clear in appearance. For example, on the one hand, some very small suspended transparent particles were detected by the naked eye. It is believed that this gum could not be completely dispersed.

[0177] Regarding the cloud points, almost all the values were as high as 50 °C for testing at high temperatures and were not considered to be significantly different for each of the fragrances tested. A higher cloud point of the base (without fragrance) could be observed. For the cloud points at low temperatures, almost all the values were below 0 °C and were not considered to be significantly different among each of the fragrances tested. Lower cloud points were observed in Option 3, 5, and the positive control, which were the most stable at lower temperatures. The cloud point results helped to gain a preliminary understanding of the stability of the samples at high and low temperatures during the aging process.

[0178] The formulation descriptions of Test Formulations 1 - 5 and the positive control are listed in Tables 2, 3, and 4, as described in Table 1 of Example 1 above. Fragrances A, B, C, and D were added to each of Test Formulations 1 - 5. Fragrances A, B, C, and D represent different scents. The results of adding the fragrances to Test Formulations 1 - 5 and the positive control are listed in Tables 2, 3, and 4.

[0179] Table 2

[0180] Turbidity (NTU)

[0181] Test Formulation Formulation Backbone Fragrance A Fragrance B Fragrance C Fragrance D 1 Glycerin, IPP 2.7 2.9 ND ND 2 Glycerin, IPP, Guar Gum 3.19 3.61 3.13 3.63 3 Glycerin, HEC, IPP 3.44 3.3 2.75 3.27 4 Glycerin, HEC, Guar Gum 4.57 4.15 3.73 3.12 5 Glycerin, HEC, Cationic Wheat Protein 2.65 3.05 1.99 2.64 Positive Control Glycerin, HEC, PQ7 2.84 2.8 1.97 2.65

[0182] “IPP”: Isopropyl Palmitate

[0183] Table 3

[0184] Cloud Point Evaluation at High Temperature (“R” = Recovery) (“C” = Cloudy)*

[0185]

[0186]

[0187] *All data are in degrees Celsius.

[0188] Table 4

[0189] Cloud Point Evaluation at Low Temperature (“R” = Recovery) (“C” = Cloudy)*

[0190]

[0191]

[0192] *All data are in degrees Celsius.

[0193] The above test formulations 3, 5 with different fragrances and the positive control were respectively exposed to continuous light at 725 W / m2 / 300 to 800 nm using filter C at 55 °C BPT for 16 hours (i.e., “Sun Test”). Test formulations 3 and 5 and the positive control (P.C) were stable under said conditions, and no changes in color, turbidity and consistency were detected.

[0194] Based on the data obtained in Tables 1 - 4, two formulations were identified as Formulation 3 and Formulation 5. Both Test Formulations 3 and 5 exhibited acceptable appearance, viscosity, pH after preparation, and were consistent with the market formulation in terms of softening performance. In addition, Formulation 3 and Formulation 5 did not show color change in the “Sun Test” and did not show cloudiness in the cloud point test at hot and cold temperatures.

[0195] Example 3

[0196] Preservative Efficacy

[0197] Base composition for generating batches for the sample antibacterial experiment

[0198]

[0199] *All values in Table 1 are provided as wt% of the total composition.

[0200] Then Base Formulation A and Formulation B were modified to include various preservative combinations identified in Tables 5a and 5b. The amounts of the preservative combinations in Tables 5a and 5b are the total amounts in the “Final Composition” and are relative to the total weight of the “Final Composition”:

[0201] Table 5a

[0202] (*Using Base Formulation A)

[0203] Preservative Combination Final Composition Naming 0.1% Lactic Acid Formulation A(1) 0.3% Lactic Acid Formulation A(2) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.15% Etidronic Acid Formulation A(3) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.3% Caprylyl Glycol Formulation A(4) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.3% Phenoxyethanol Formulation A(5) 0.1% Lactic Acid (No Fragrance) Formulation A(6) 0.5% Lactic Acid (0.55% Fragrance) Formulation A(7)

[0204] Table 5b

[0205] (*Using base formulation B)

[0206] Preservative Combination Final Composition Naming 0.1% Lactic Acid (No Fragrance) Formulation B(1) 0.1% Lactic Acid Formulation B(2) 0.3% Lactic Acid Formulation B(3) 0.5% Lactic Acid Formulation B(4) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.2% Etidronic Acid Formulation B(5) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.3% Caprylyl Glycol Formulation B(6) 0.3% Lactic Acid and 0.1% Sodium Benzoate Formulation B(7)

[0207] The modified base formulations (i.e., “final compositions”) listed in Table 5a and Table 5b were separately subjected to tests to evaluate the microbiological robustness in the Antimicrobial Preservation Efficacy Test (APET) and the Acidic Antimicrobial Preservation Effectiveness Test (AAPET). The AAPET analysis was conducted substantially in accordance with the guidelines described in Quality Microprogram (QMIC) 0058 - Acidophilic Bacteria > 99.9%). According to the AAPET analysis, a pool of bacteria was added to the compositions listed in Table 5, homogenized, and incubated for seven days. After incubation, aliquots were taken and the number of viable microorganisms / bacteria was counted. After seven days, a new pool of bacteria was added to the sample and incubated for another seven days. After seven days (a total of 14 days), another aliquot was taken and the number of viable microorganisms / bacteria was counted. This procedure was repeated for a total of 35 days.

[0208] The Antimicrobial Preservation Efficacy Test (APET) is a 28 - day test that involves inoculating two product samples with separate pools: a pool of bacteria and a pool of molds. Subsequently, the samples were homogenized and incubated for seven days. After incubation, aliquots were taken and the number of viable molds and microorganisms / bacteria was counted. Next, a new pool of bacteria was added to the sample and incubated for another seven days. After seven days (a total of 14 days), another aliquot was taken and the number of viable microorganisms / bacteria was counted. This procedure was repeated for a total of 28 days.

[0209] For the acceptance criteria in the APET and AAPET assays, the conventional and acidophilic bacteria must show a log reduction of at most 3.0, as determined on the 7th day after each inoculation, and no increase on the 7th day after the second inoculation. Regarding molds, the acceptance criterion is that the sample must demonstrate a log reduction of at most 1.0, as determined on the 7th day after inoculation. Additionally, there should be no increase on the 7th day after the second inoculation. Generally, for acceptable preservative efficacy, APET is greater than a 3 - log reduction for conventional bacteria and greater than a 1 - log reduction for molds. Acceptable preservative efficacy is AAPET greater than a 3 - log reduction for acidophilic bacteria. Table 6 - 17 shows the efficacy of the following preservative combinations (e.g., in combination with a formulation containing fragrance A):

[0210] 1. Formulation A:

[0211] ● Formulation A(3) (0.3% lactic acid and 0.15% etidronic acid); and

[0212] ● Formulation A(4) (0.3% lactic acid and 0.3% caprylyl glycol).

[0213] 2. Formulation B:

[0214] ● Formulation B(5) (0.3% lactic acid and 0.2% etidronic acid)

[0215] ● Formulation B(6) (0.3% lactic acid and 0.3% caprylyl glycol); and

[0216] ● Formulation B(7) (0.3% lactic acid and 0.1% sodium benzoate).

[0217] The APET and AAPET test results are as follows:

[0218] Final composition A(1)-(6)

[0219] Table 6 (fresh samples)

[0220] Bacteria / log reduction (APET)

[0221] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 5.9 5.7 5.7 5.7 Pass Formulation A(2) 5.7 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(3) 5.7 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(4) 5.7 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(5) 5.7 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(6) 4 3.0 2.9 1.4 Fail

[0222] Table 7 (fresh samples)

[0223] Mold / log reduction (APET)

[0224] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.2 Fail Formulation A(2) 1.1 0.8 0.8 0.9 Fail Formulation A(3) 2.3 0.9 0 1.0 Fail Formulation A(4) 2.2 1.9 2.2 2.4 Pass Formulation A(5) 2.4 1.9 2.3 2.7 Pass Formulation A(6) 0.3 -0.2 -0.2 1.0 Fail

[0225] Table 8 (fresh samples)

[0226] Acidophilic bacteria / log reduction (AAPET)

[0227] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Day 35 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 4.7 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 Pass Formulation A(2) -0.1 -1.1 -0.8 -1.1 -1.0 Fail Formulation A(3) 4.7 1.3 -0.1 -0.7 -1.1 Fail Formulation A(4) 4.7 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 Pass Formulation A(5) 4.7 3.8 3.8 2.8 -1.1 Fail Formulation A(6) -0.2 0.8 -0.9 -1.2 -0.8 Fail

[0228] Table 9 (aged samples)

[0229] Bacteria / log reduction (APET)

[0230] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 5.9 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(3) 5.9 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(4) 5.9 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(5) 5.9 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formulation A(6) 5.9 4.2 2.9 1.9 Fail

[0231] Table 10 (aged samples)

[0232] Mold / log reduction (APET)

[0233] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 0.2 0.4 0.3 0.4 Fail Formulation A(3) 2 1.9 2.8 2.9 Pass Formulation A(4) 1.8 1.5 3.5 3.8 Pass Formulation A(5) 3.1 0.6 2.2 3.8 Fail Formulation A(6) 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.4 Fail

[0234] Table 11 (aged samples)

[0235] Acidophilic bacteria / log reduction (AAPET)

[0236] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Day 35 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation A(1) 0.7 -0.7 -0.6 0.0 -0.8 Fail Formulation A(3) 5.6 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formulation A(4) 5.6 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formulation A(5) 5.6 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formulation A(6) 0.8 -0.4 -0.3 -0.5 -0.8 Fail

[0237] Final Composition B(1)-(7)

[0238] Table 12 (Fresh Sample)

[0239] Bacteria / Log Reduction (APET)

[0240] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation B(2) 5.7 4.2 3.0 3.9 Fail Formulation B(3) 5.7 4.4 3.8 3.8 Fail Formulation B(4) 5.7 4.4 3.2 4.2 Fail Formulation B(5) 5.7 5.7 5.1 5.7 Pass Formulation B(6) 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 Pass Formulation B(7) 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 Pass Formulation B(1) 5.7 4 3.0 1.9 Fail Formulation A(7) 5.7 4.2 3.0 3.9 Fail

[0241] Table 13 (Fresh Sample)

[0242] Mold / Log Reduction (APET)

[0243] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formulation B(2) 3.6 0 0 0.7 Fail Formulation B(3) 3.6 -0.1 0.2 0.8 Fail Formulation B(4) 3.6 0.9 1.1 1.9 Fail Formulation B(5) 3.6 2.8 3.4 3.4 Pass Formulation B(6) 3.6 2.2 3.4 3.4 Pass Formulation B(7) 3.6 3.4 3.4 3.4 Pass Formulation B(1) 3.6 0.8 -0.1 0.7 Fail Formulation A(7) 3.6 -0.3 -0.2 -0.2 Fail

[0244] Table 14 (Fresh Sample)

[0245] Acidophilic Bacteria / Log Reduction (AAPET)

[0246] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Day 35 Overall Pass or Fail Formula B(2) 1.0 0.2 -0.6 0.7 -0.6 Fail Formula B(3) 5.2 5.2 0.8 -0.5 0.2 Fail Formula B(4) 5.2 5.2 5.2 3.4 1.3 Fail Formula B(5) 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formula B(6) 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formula B(7) 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 5.2 Pass Formula B(1) 0.6 0.3 -0.9 0.3 -0.9 Fail Formula A(7) 1.2 0.3 0.2 1.0 -0.6 Fail

[0247] Table 15 (Aged Sample)

[0248] Bacteria / Log Reduction (APET)

[0249] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formula B(2) 4 4 3.0 3.5 Fail Formula B(3) 4.8 3.6 3.6 3.0 Fail Formula B(4) 5.8 3.6 3.6 4.0 Fail Formula B(5) 5.8 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formula B(6) 5.8 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formula B(7) 5.8 5.8 5.8 5.8 Pass Formula B(1) 4 3 2.5 1.3 Fail Formula A(7) 4.8 2.3 2.0 2.3 Fail

[0250] Table 16 (Aged Sample)

[0251] Mold / Log Reduction (APET)

[0252] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Overall Pass or Fail Formula B(2) 3.4 0.8 0.8 0.8 Fail Formula B(3) 3.4 1 1 1 Pass Formula B(4) 3.4 2 2 2 Pass Formula B(5) 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 Pass Formula B(6) 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 Pass Formula B(7) 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 Pass Formula B(1) 3.5 -0.1 -0.2 0.0 Fail Formula A(7) 3.5 -0.1 0.0 0.8 Fail

[0253] Table 17 (Aged Sample)

[0254] Acidophilic Bacteria / Log Reduction (AAPET)

[0255] Sample Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Day 28 Day 35 Overall Pass or Fail Formula B(2) 1.1 0.4 -0.1 0.4 0.1 Fail Formula B(3) 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 Pass Formula B(4) 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 Pass Formula B(5) 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 Pass Formula B(6) 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 Pass Formula B(7) 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 Pass Formula B(1) 0.8 0.5 0.1 -0.4 -0.3 Fail Formula A(7) 0.2 0.4 0.1 -0.4 -0.1 Fail

[0256] Example 4

[0257] Representative Formulation

[0258] The following formulation is a representative fabric softener formulation of the present invention. All values are calculated as wt% of the total composition.

[0259]

Claims

1. A fabric softener composition comprising: a natural thickener which is a non-ionic cellulose ether, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is methyl cellulose ether, hydroxyethyl cellulose ether or hydroxypropyl cellulose ether, and wherein the amount of the non-ionic cellulose ether is 0.1 wt% to 1.0 wt% of the composition; a polyol, wherein the polyol is ethylene glycol, glycerol or a combination thereof, and wherein the amount of the polyol present is 0.5 wt% - 3.0 wt% of the composition; and a softener, the softener comprising one or more substances selected from: a.) a plasticizer, wherein the plasticizer is isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isodecyl neopentanoate, isodecyl oleate, diisopropyl adipate or any combination thereof, and wherein the amount of the plasticizer present is 0.05 wt% - 0.2 wt% of the composition, or b.) a hydrolyzed plant protein, wherein the hydrolyzed plant protein is a cationic wheat protein, and wherein the amount of the hydrolyzed plant protein present is 0.1 wt% - 0.5 wt% of the composition.

2. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether or methyl cellulose ether.

3. The fabric softener composition according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the non-ionic cellulose ether is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether.

4. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the polyol is glycerol.

5. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the plasticizer is isopropyl palmitate.

6. The fabric softener composition according to claim 5, wherein the amount of the plasticizer present is 0.1 wt% - 0.2 wt% of the composition.

7. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softener composition comprises: a. a natural thickener which is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether; b. a polyol which comprises glycerol; and c. a softener which comprises isopropyl palmitate.

8. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softener composition comprises: a. a natural thickener which is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether; b. a polyol which comprises glycerol; and c. a softener which comprises cationic wheat protein.

9. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softener composition comprises a. a natural thickener which is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether; b. a polyol which comprises glycerol; c. a softener which comprises isopropyl palmitate; d. etidronic acid, and the amount of etidronic acid present is 0.05 wt% - 0.4 wt% of the composition; and e. water.

10. The fabric softener composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softener composition comprises: a. a natural thickener which is hydroxyethyl cellulose ether; b. a polyol which comprises glycerol; c. A softening agent, the softening agent comprising cationic wheat protein; d. Etidronic acid, the amount of etidronic acid present being 0.05 wt% - 0.4 wt% of the composition; and e. Water.

11. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, wherein the plasticizer is isopropyl palmitate and the fabric softening agent composition does not contain cationic wheat protein.

12. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, the result of the cloud point evaluation at low temperature measured using a 2100Q portable turbidimeter being cloudy at a temperature between -1 °C and -4.5 °C.

13. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, wherein the viscosity of the fabric softening agent composition measured using a Brookfield RVTD digital viscometer with spindle #2 at 50 rpm is between 70 - 180 cps.

14. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softening agent composition has a phabrometer score higher than 3.

0.

15. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, the NTU measured using a 2100Q portable turbidimeter being between 1.8 - 3.

5.

16. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, which comprises lactic acid and etidronic acid.

17. The fabric softening agent composition according to claim 1, which comprises lactic acid and octyldodecanol.

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