Water-soluble unit dose preparation comprising a first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant and a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant

Abstract

The present invention provides a water-soluble unit-dose product and a use method thereof. The water-soluble unit-dose product contains a non-soap anionic surfactant and a non-ionic surfactant.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention provides a water-soluble unit-dose product and a use method thereof. The water-soluble unit-dose product contains a non-soap anionic surfactant and a non-ionic surfactant. Background Art

[0002] Water-soluble unit dose products are favored by consumers for their ease of use and high efficiency. Such water-soluble unit dose products generally contain laundry detergent compositions. Without being bound by theory, when the water-soluble unit dose product is added to water, the membrane dissolves / disintegrates, releasing the internal contents into the surrounding water to produce a wash liquor.

[0003] WO2020132575 teaches a water-soluble unit dose preparation containing an alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having a mixed alkoxy chain (EO / PO). WO2020132575 proposes that the benefits provided by these nonionic surfactants relate to ensuring a preferred viscosity profile in the presence of sodium laureth sulfate.

[0004] Alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants, more particularly ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants, are often formulated into detergent compositions of water-soluble unit dose articles to provide fabric cleaning benefits. However, a problem with such materials is that they can deplasticize the film. Without being bound by theory, if the film is not sufficiently plasticized, it becomes brittle and tends to break prematurely and unexpectedly. This problem can be solved by reducing the level of alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants, but this is usually at the expense of the cleaning performance of the detergent composition.

[0005] Surprisingly, it has been found that careful formulation of the alkoxylated alcohol nonionic overcomes this problem. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the combination of a first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant with a low level / absence of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant according to the present invention allows for a desired level of alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant in the detergent composition to provide cleaning performance while still providing the desired film plasticizing properties. Summary of the invention

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention is a water-soluble unit dose product comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises:

[0007] a. 15% to 55% by weight of the laundry detergent composition of a non-soap anionic surfactant;

[0008] b. 2.5% to 30% by weight of the laundry detergent composition of a nonionic surfactant;

[0009] Wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises:

[0010] (i) a first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having the following structure;

[0011] (I)R1-O-(AO1)n-(AO2)m-(AO3)zH

[0012] wherein AO1 is a first alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, AO2 is a second alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, AO3 is a third alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, and wherein AO1 and AO2 are different from each other, and wherein if AO3 is present, AO2 and AO3 are different from each other; R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms; n is 1-30, m is 1-30 and z is 0-30, and the sum of n+m+z is at least 10;

[0013] (ii) between 2% and 10%, by weight of the laundry detergent composition, of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having the following structure;

[0014] (II)R2-O-(EO) p -H; wherein EO is an ethoxylate chain; R2 is a linear or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms; and p is 1-30.

[0015] The second aspect of the present invention is a method for washing fabrics, comprising the steps of: diluting the water-soluble unit dose product according to any preceding claim by 200 to 1000 times, preferably 300 to 2000 times with water to prepare a washing liquid, and contacting the fabrics to be treated with the washing liquid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 It is a water-soluble unit dose preparation according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Water-soluble unit dose products

[0018] The present invention discloses a water-soluble unit dose product, which comprises a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition. The water-soluble film and the liquid detergent composition are described in more detail below.

[0019] The water-soluble unit dose product comprises a water-soluble film, which is shaped so that the unit dose product comprises at least one internal compartment surrounded by the water-soluble film. The unit dose product may comprise a first water-soluble film and a second water-soluble film sealed to each other to define the internal compartment. The water-soluble unit dose product is configured so that the detergent composition does not leak out of the compartment during storage. However, when the water-soluble unit dose product is added to water, the water-soluble film dissolves and releases the contents in the internal compartment into the washing liquid.

[0020] Compartment should be understood to refer to the enclosed internal space in the unit dose article, which holds the detergent composition. During manufacture, the first water-soluble film can be formed to include an open compartment, in which the detergent composition is added. The second water-soluble film is then covered over the first film in an orientation close to the opening of the compartment. The first film and the second film are then sealed together along the sealing area.

[0021] The unit dose article may include more than one compartment, even at least two compartments, or even at least three compartments, or even at least four compartments. The compartments may be arranged in a superimposed orientation, i.e. one is positioned on top of another. In this orientation, the unit dose article will include at least three layers of film: top, one or more middle and bottom. Alternatively, the compartments may be positioned in a side-by-side orientation, i.e. one is oriented next to another. The compartments may even be oriented in a "tire and rim" arrangement, i.e. a first compartment is positioned close to a second compartment, but the first compartment at least partially surrounds the second compartment, but does not completely enclose the second compartment. Alternatively, a compartment may be completely enclosed in another compartment.

[0022] In the case where the unit dose article comprises at least two compartments, one of the compartments may be smaller than another compartment. In the case where the unit dose article comprises at least three compartments, two of the compartments may be smaller than the third compartment, and preferably the smaller compartment is superimposed on the larger compartment. The superimposed compartments are preferably oriented side by side. The unit dose article may comprise at least four compartments, three of the compartments may be smaller than the fourth compartment, and preferably the smaller compartment is superimposed on the larger compartment. The superimposed compartments are preferably oriented side by side.

[0023] In a multi-compartment orientation, the detergent composition according to the invention may be contained in at least one of the compartments. It may, for example, be contained in only one compartment, or may be contained in two compartments, or may even be contained in three compartments, or may even be contained in four compartments.

[0024] Each compartment may contain the same or different compositions. The different compositions may all be in the same form, or they may be in different forms.

[0025] The water-soluble unit dose article may comprise at least two internal compartments, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition is contained in at least one of the compartments, preferably wherein the unit dose article comprises at least three compartments, wherein the detergent composition is contained in at least one of the compartments.

[0026] Figure 1 A water-soluble unit dose article (1) according to the present invention is disclosed. The water-soluble unit dose article (1) comprises a first water-soluble film (2) and a second water-soluble film (3) sealed together at a sealing area (4). A liquid laundry detergent composition (5) is contained within the water-soluble unit dose article (1).

[0027] Water soluble film

[0028] The film of the present invention is soluble or dispersible in water.The water-soluble film preferably has a thickness of 20 to 150 microns, preferably 35 to 125 microns, even more preferably 50 to 110 microns, most preferably about 76 microns.

[0029] Preferably, the membrane has a water solubility of at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, or even at least 95%, as measured by the method set forth herein, after using a glass filter with a maximum pore size of 20 microns:

[0030] 5 grams ± 0.1 grams of membrane material are added to a pre-weighed 3L beaker and 2L ± 5ml of distilled water are added. It is vigorously stirred for 30 minutes at 30°C on a magnetic stirrer Labline (model 1250) or equivalent and a 5cm magnetic stirrer (set to 600rpm). Then, the mixture is filtered via a folded qualitative porous glass filter with the above-mentioned specified pore size (maximum 20 microns). The moisture in the collected filtrate is dried by any conventional method, and the weight of the remaining material (the part that is dissolved or dispersed) is determined. Then, the percentage of solubility or dispersion can be calculated.

[0031] Preferred film materials are preferably polymeric materials. As known in the art, the film material can be obtained by, for example, casting, blow molding, extrusion or blown extrusion of the polymeric material.

[0032] Preferred polymers, copolymers or derivatives thereof suitable for use as pouch materials are selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyalkylene oxides, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinyl acetate, polycarboxylic acids and polycarboxylates, polyamino acids or peptides, polyamides, polyacrylamides, maleic acid / acrylic acid copolymers, polysaccharides including starch and gelatin, natural gums such as xanthan gum and carrageenan. More preferred polymers are selected from polyacrylates and water-soluble acrylate copolymers, methylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, dextrins, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, maltodextrins, polymethacrylates, and most preferably selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), and combinations thereof. Preferably, the level of polymer (e.g. PVA polymer) in the pouch material is at least 60%. The polymer may have any weight average molecular weight, preferably from about 1000 to 1,000,000, more preferably from about 10,000 to 300,000, and still more preferably from about 20,000 to 150,000.

[0033] Preferably, the water soluble film comprises a polyvinyl alcohol polymer or copolymer, preferably a blend of polyvinyl alcohol polymers and / or polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, preferably selected from sulfonated and carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, especially carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, most preferably a blend of polyvinyl alcohol homopolymers and carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymers.

[0034] Preferred membranes exhibit good solubility in cold water (which means unheated distilled water). Preferably, such membranes exhibit good solubility at a temperature of 24° C., even more preferably at 10° C. By good solubility, it is meant that the membrane exhibits a water solubility of at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, or even at least 95%, as measured by the method described herein after using a glass filter with a maximum pore size of 20 microns, as described above.

[0035] Preferred membranes are those supplied by Monosol under trade references M8630, M8900, M8779, M8310.

[0036] The film may be opaque, transparent or translucent.The film may include a printed area.

[0037] Printed areas may be achieved using standard techniques such as flexographic printing or inkjet printing.

[0038] The film may contain an aversive agent, such as a bittering agent. Suitable bittering agents include, but are not limited to, naringin, sucrose octaacetate, quinine hydrochloride, denatonium benzyl, or mixtures thereof. Any suitable amount of the aversive agent may be used in the film. Suitable amounts include, but are not limited to, 1 ppm to 5000 ppm, or even 100 ppm to 2500 ppm, or even 250 rpm to 2000 rpm.

[0039] Preferably, the water-soluble film or the water-soluble unit dose article or both are coated with a lubricant, preferably, wherein the lubricant is selected from talc, zinc oxide, silicon dioxide, siloxane, zeolite, silicic acid, aluminum oxide, sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, sodium citrate, sodium tripolyphosphate, potassium citrate, potassium tripolyphosphate, calcium stearate, zinc stearate, magnesium stearate, starch, modified starch, clay, kaolin, gypsum, cyclodextrin or mixtures thereof.

[0040] Preferably, the water-soluble film or their respective individual components independently contain between 0 ppm and 20 ppm, preferably between 0 ppm and 15 ppm, more preferably between 0 ppm and 10 ppm, even more preferably between 0 ppm and 5 ppm, even more preferably between 0 ppm and 1 ppm, even more preferably between 0 ppb and 100 ppb, most preferably 0 ppb of dioxane. Those skilled in the art will be aware of known methods and techniques for determining the dioxane content in water-soluble films and their components.

[0041] Liquid laundry detergent compositions

[0042] The water-soluble unit dose article comprises a liquid laundry detergent composition. The term "liquid laundry detergent composition" refers to any laundry detergent composition comprising a liquid capable of wetting and treating fabrics, and includes but is not limited to liquids, gels, pastes, dispersions, etc. Liquid compositions may include solids or gases in appropriately divided form, but liquid compositions do not include generally non-fluid forms, such as tablets or granules.

[0043] The liquid detergent compositions can be used in hand fabric washing operations or can be used in automatic machine fabric washing operations.

[0044] The liquid laundry detergent composition comprises from 15% to 55% by weight of the laundry detergent composition of a non-soap anionic surfactant. Preferably the detergent composition comprises between 20% and 55%, more preferably between 25% and 50% of a non-soap anionic surfactant.

[0045] Preferably, the non-soap anionic surfactant comprises a linear alkylbenzene sulfonate. Preferably, the linear alkylbenzene sulfonate comprises C 10 -C 16Alkylbenzene sulfonate, C 11 -C 14 Alkylbenzene sulfonate or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the alkylbenzene sulfonate is an amine neutralized alkylbenzene sulfonate, an alkali metal neutralized alkylbenzene sulfonate or mixtures thereof. The amine is preferably selected from monoethanolamine, triethanolamine or mixtures thereof. The alkali metal is preferably selected from sodium, potassium, magnesium or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises between 1% and 40%, preferably between 3% and 40%, more preferably between 6% and 35% of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition.

[0046] Preferably, the non-soap anionic surfactant comprises an alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant, wherein the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant is selected from alkyl sulfate, alkoxylated alkyl sulfate or a mixture thereof. The alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant may be a primary alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant or a secondary alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant, or a mixture thereof, preferably a primary alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant. Preferably, the alkoxylated alkyl sulfate comprises an ethoxylated alkyl sulfate, a propoxylated alkyl sulfate, a mixed ethoxylated / propoxylated alkyl sulfate or a mixture thereof, more preferably an ethoxylated alkyl sulfate. Preferably, the ethoxylated alkyl sulfate has an average ethoxylation degree between 0.1 and 5, preferably between 0.5 and 3. Preferably, the ethoxylated alkyl sulfate has an average alkyl chain length between 8 and 18, more preferably between 10 and 16, most preferably between 12 and 15. Preferably, the alkyl chain of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant is linear or branched or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the branched alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant is a branched primary alkyl sulfate, a branched secondary alkyl sulfate or a mixture thereof, preferably a branched primary alkyl sulfate, wherein the branch is preferably in the 2-position, or alternatively may be further present under the alkyl chain, or may be multi-branched, wherein the branch is distributed throughout the alkyl chain. The weight average degree of branching of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant may be from 0% to 100%, preferably from 0% to 95%, more preferably from 0% to 60%, most preferably from 0% to 20%. Alternatively, the weight average degree of branching of the alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant may be from 70% to 100%, preferably from 80% to 90%. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from materials of natural origin, materials of synthetic origin or mixtures thereof. Preferably, materials of synthetic origin include oxo-synthesized materials, Ziegler-synthesized materials, Guerbet-synthesized materials, Fischer-Tropsch–synthesized materials, isoalkyl-synthesized materials or mixtures thereof, preferably oxo-synthesized materials. Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises between 1% and 35%, preferably between 3% and 30%, more preferably between 6% and 20% by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition of an alkyl sulphate anionic surfactant.

[0047] Preferably, the non-soap anionic surfactant comprises linear alkylbenzene sulfonate and alkoxylated alkyl sulfate, more preferably, wherein the weight ratio of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate to alkoxylated alkyl sulfate is 1:2 to 9:1, preferably 1:1 to 7:1, more preferably 1:1 to 5:1, most preferably 1:1 to 4:1.

[0048] The liquid laundry detergent composition comprises from 2.5% to 30% by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition of a nonionic surfactant. Nonionic surfactants are described in more detail below.

[0049] Preferably, the weight ratio of non-soap anionic surfactant to nonionic surfactant is from 1:1 to 13:1, preferably from 1.25:1 to 10:1, more preferably from 1.5:1 to 7.5:1.

[0050] Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises fatty acids, preferably neutralized fatty acid soaps, preferably fatty acid salts, more preferably amine-neutralized fatty acid salts, wherein preferably the amine is an alkanolamine, more preferably selected from monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, or mixtures thereof, more preferably monoethanolamine. The liquid detergent composition may comprise between 1.5% and 20%, between 2% and 15%, between 3% and 12%, or between 4% and 10% fatty acids by weight of the liquid detergent composition.

[0051] Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises between 1% and 20%, preferably between 5% and 15% water by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition.

[0052] Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises between 10% and 40%, preferably between 15% and 30% of a non-aqueous solvent by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition, preferably wherein the non-aqueous solvent is selected from 1,2-propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.

[0053] Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises adjunct ingredients selected from the group comprising builders, perfumes, enzymes, citrates, bleaches, bleach catalysts, dyes, hueing dyes, brighteners, cleaning polymers including alkoxylated polyamines and polyethyleneimines, soil release polymers, fabric care polymers including cationic hydroxyethylcellulose and cationic polyglucans, surfactants, solvents, dye transfer inhibitors, chelants, encapsulated perfumes, polycarboxylates, structurants, pH modifiers, antioxidants including Ralox 35, and mixtures thereof.

[0054] Preferably, the laundry detergent composition comprises other enzymes selected from the group comprising the following: hemicellulase, peroxidase, protease, cellulase, xylanase, lipase, phospholipase, esterase, cutinase, pectinase, cutinase, reductase, oxidase, phenoloxidase, lipoxygenase, ligninase, pullulanase, tannase, pentosanase, melanase, beta glucanase, arabinase, hyaluronidase, chondroitinase, laccase, xyloglucanase, mannanase and amylase, nuclease or their mixture, preferably comprising other enzymes selected from the group comprising the following: protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase, xyloglucanase, mannanase and their mixture. Preferably, the other enzyme is lipase.

[0055] As used herein, the term lipase includes enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of fats (lipids). Lipases are a subclass of esterases. Lipases suitable for the present invention include phospholipases, acyltransferases or perhydrolases, such as acyltransferases homologous to Candida antarctica lipase A, acyltransferases from Mycobacterium smegmatis, perhydrolases from the CE 7 family, and variants of Mycobacterium smegmatis perhydrolases, particularly the S54V variant used in the commercial product Gentle Power Bleach from Huntsman Textile Effects Pte Ltd. Suitable esterases and cutinases include those of bacterial or fungal origin. Chemically modified or protein engineered mutant enzymes are included. Examples include lipases from Thermomyces, e.g., from T. lanuginosus (formerly named Humicola lanuginosa); cutinases from Humicola, e.g., H. insolens; lipases from strains of Pseudomonas (some of these now renamed Burkholderia), e.g., P. alcaligenes or P. pseudoalcaligenes, P. cepacia, P. sp. strain SD705, P. wisconsinensis; GDSL-type Streptomyces lipases; lipases from Magnaporthe oryzae, e.g., P. oryzae spp.; grisea); cutinase from Pseudomonas mendocina; lipase from Thermobifida fusca; Geobacillus stearothermophilus lipase, lipase from Bacillus subtilis; and lipases from Streptomyces griseus and S. pristinaespiralis. Typically, the lipase is present in the composition in an amount of 0.001% to 0.03%, preferably 0.0025% to 0.025%, and more preferably 0.005% to 0.02% enzyme active protein by weight of the composition. Without being bound by theory, the enzyme is provided in the form of a formulation comprising the enzyme and other ingredients. The enzyme itself is a protein that catalyzes a reaction. Enzymatic active protein refers herein to an enzyme that can actively catalyze the relevant reaction.

[0056] Preferably, the liquid laundry detergent composition has a pH between 6 and 10, more preferably between 6.5 and 8.9, most preferably between 7 and 8, wherein the pH of the laundry detergent composition is measured at 10% product concentration in demineralized water at 20°C.

[0057] Liquid laundry detergent compositions can be Newtonian or non-Newtonian. Preferably, liquid laundry detergent compositions are non-Newtonian. Without being bound by theory, non-Newtonian liquids have different properties from Newtonian liquids, more specifically, the viscosity of non-Newtonian liquids depends on the shear rate, while Newtonian liquids have a constant viscosity that is independent of the applied shear rate. The reduction in viscosity when shear is applied to non-Newtonian liquids is considered to further facilitate the dissolution of the liquid detergent. The liquid laundry detergent compositions described herein can have any suitable viscosity, depending on factors such as the formulation ingredients and the purpose of the composition.

[0058] Nonionic surfactants

[0059] The liquid laundry detergent composition comprises from 2.5% to 30% nonionic surfactant by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition. Preferably the laundry detergent composition comprises from 3.5% to 20%, preferably from 5% to 15% nonionic surfactant by weight of the laundry detergent composition.

[0060] The nonionic surfactant includes a first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant conforming to the following structure:

[0061] (I)R1-O-(AO1) n -(AO2) m -(AO3) z -H

[0062] Among them, AO1 is a first alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, AO2 is a second alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, and AO3 is a third alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain.

[0063] AO1 and AO2 are different from each other.

[0064] AO2 and AO3 (if present) are different from each other.

[0065] R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from a material of natural origin, a material of synthetic origin, or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the material of synthetic origin includes an oxo-synthesized material, a Ziegler-synthesized material, a Guerbet-synthesized material, a Fischer-Tropsch-synthesized material, an isoalkyl-synthesized material, or a mixture thereof. R1-O- is derived from a primary alcohol, a secondary alcohol, or a mixture thereof, preferably a primary alcohol.

[0066] n is 1-30, m is 1-30 and z is 0-30, and the sum of n+m+z is at least 10.

[0067] Preferably, the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant is selected from those having formula (III) or (IV) or mixtures thereof, preferably selected from those having formula (IV);

[0068] (III)R1-O-(EO) x -(PO) y -(AO3) z -H; or

[0069] (IV)R1-O-(PO) y -(EO) x -(AO3) z -H;

[0070] Wherein, EO is an ethoxylate group, PO is a propoxylate group, and AO3 is selected from an ethoxylate group, a propoxylate group or a butoxylate group, preferably an ethoxylate group or a propoxylate group.

[0071] Each x is independently 1-30, preferably 3-25, more preferably 5-20.

[0072] Each y is independently 1-30, preferably 1-20, more preferably 2-10.

[0073] Each z is independently 0-30, preferably 0-27, more preferably 0-25.

[0074] Each R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18, preferably 8 to 14, more preferably 8 to 12 carbon atoms. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from materials of natural origin, materials of synthetic origin, or mixtures thereof. Preferably, materials of synthetic origin include oxo-synthesized materials, Ziegler-synthesized materials, Guerbet-synthesized materials, Fischer-Tropsch-synthesized materials, isoalkyl-synthesized materials, or mixtures thereof. R1-O- is derived from a primary alcohol, a secondary alcohol, or a mixture thereof, preferably a primary alcohol.

[0075] Preferably, the sum of x+y+z is at least 10, preferably 10-50, more preferably 10-40.

[0076] More preferably, the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant has the formula:

[0077] (V)R1-O-(PO) y -(EO) x -H

[0078] Wherein EO is an ethoxylate group and PO is a propoxylate group.

[0079] x is from 3 to 30, preferably from 5 to 20, even more preferably from 5 to 15, most preferably from 7 to 11.

[0080] y is 2-10, preferably 3-9, more preferably 4-8, most preferably 5-7.

[0081] Preferably, the sum of x+y is from 10 to 40, preferably from 10 to 30, more preferably from 10 to 20.

[0082] R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 10 carbon atoms. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from a material of natural origin, a material of synthetic origin, or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the material of synthetic origin includes an oxo-synthesized material, a Ziegler-synthesized material, a Guerbet-synthesized material, a Fischer-Tropsch-synthesized material, an isoalkyl-synthesized material, or a mixture thereof. Alternatively, the material of synthetic origin is derived from a secondary alcohol. More preferably, R1 is 2-ethylhexyl or 2-propylheptyl, most preferably 2-ethylhexyl.

[0083] The liquid laundry detergent composition may comprise between 2.5% and 20%, preferably between 2.5% and 15%, more preferably between 3% and 10% by weight of the liquid detergent composition of the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant.

[0084] Suitable examples of the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant are commercially available from BASF in the Plurafac series, from Dow in the Ecosurf series or from Clariant in the Genapol series. Most preferably, the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant comprises an alkyl chain of Guerbet origin, such as is commercially available from BASF in the Plurafac SLF series and from Dow in the Ecosurf EH series. The most preferred commercially available first alkoxylated nonionic surfactants are commercially available as Plurafac SLF180, Ecosurf EH 9 and Ecosurf EH14, especially Ecosurf EH9.

[0085] The nonionic surfactant comprises 10% or less, by weight of the laundry detergent composition, of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having the following structure:

[0086] (II)R2-O-(EO) p -H;

[0087] Wherein, EO is an ethoxylate chain. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from materials of natural origin, materials of synthetic origin, or mixtures thereof, and most preferably selected from materials of natural origin. Preferably, materials of synthetic origin include oxo-synthesized materials, Ziegler-synthesized materials, Guerbet-synthesized materials, Fischer-Tropsch-synthesized materials, isoalkyl-synthesized materials, or mixtures thereof.

[0088] R2 is a linear or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably a linear alkyl chain.

[0089] p is 1-30.

[0090] More preferably, the second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant has the formula:

[0091] (II)R2-O-(EO) p -H

[0092] Here, EO is an ethoxylate group.

[0093] p is an average of 5 to 12, preferably 6 to 10, more preferably 7 to 9 ethylene oxide units per mole of alcohol;

[0094] R2 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably 9 to 15 carbon atoms, more preferably 10 to 14 carbon atoms. Preferably, the alkyl chain is selected from materials of natural origin, materials of synthetic origin, or mixtures thereof, more preferably selected from materials of natural origin. Preferably, materials of synthetic origin include oxo-synthesized materials, Ziegler-synthesized materials, Guerbet-synthesized materials, Fischer-Tropsch-synthesized materials, isoalkyl-synthesized materials, or mixtures thereof.

[0095] The liquid laundry detergent composition may comprise between 0% and 8%, preferably between 2% and 6% by weight of the detergent composition of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant.

[0096] The liquid laundry detergent composition may comprise between 2% and 10%, preferably between 2% and 8%, more preferably between 2% and 6% by weight of the detergent composition of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant.

[0097] Preferably, the weight ratio of the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant to the second alkoxylated nonionic surfactant is from 1:1 to 7:1, preferably from 1:1 to 5:1, more preferably from 1:1 to 3:1.

[0098] The first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant can be added directly to the liquid laundry detergent composition. Alternatively, the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant can first be mixed with other ingredients to produce a premix. The premix (which includes the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant) can be added to the liquid laundry detergent composition. Alternatively, a portion of the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant can be added directly to the liquid laundry detergent composition, and the remainder can be added to the liquid laundry detergent composition as a part of the premix. Similarly, the second alkoxylated nonionic surfactant (if present) can be added directly to the liquid detergent composition, can be added as a part of the premix, or can be added directly in part and in part as a part of the premix.

[0099] Preparation method

[0100] Those skilled in the art will be aware of standard techniques for preparing liquid laundry detergent compositions and water-soluble unit dose products according to the present invention.Those skilled in the art will be aware of standard techniques and methods for preparing the ingredients of liquid laundry detergent compositions according to the present invention.

[0101] How to use

[0102] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for washing fabrics, comprising the steps of: diluting the water-soluble unit dose product according to the present invention by 200 to 3000 times, preferably 300 to 2000 times with water to prepare a washing liquid, and contacting the fabrics to be treated with the washing liquid.

[0103] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0104] Example

[0105] The effect of adding a mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant according to the present invention to a laundry detergent formulation suitable for use in a water-soluble unit dose product, comprising varying levels of ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant, on membrane swelling / deswelling upon aging has been evaluated using the Film Swelling Test Method described herein.

[0106] Test Method :

[0107] Membrane swelling :

[0108] Film samples of water-soluble PVOH films are prepared, which are intended to be used to form sealed compartments enclosing comparative compositions and liquid household detergent compositions according to the present invention as described herein. The film / juice ratio in the immersion is about 1:100; we usually use 5 repetitions / test. The bottom of a clean inert glass container is covered with a thin layer of liquid and the film to be tested is spread on the liquid; the bubbles trapped under the film are gently pushed to the side. The remaining liquid is then gently poured on top of the film so that the film is completely immersed in the liquid. The film should remain wrinkle-free and there should be no bubbles in contact with the film. The film is kept in contact with the liquid and stored at 50°C for 5 days and at 21°C for 1 night under closed container conditions. A separate glass container is used for each test. The film is then removed from the storage container and excess liquid is removed from the film. A piece of paper is placed on the film placed on top of the paper, and the film is then thoroughly wiped dry with dry paper directly before weighing. The weight of the membrane was measured before and after the immersion test under standard laboratory conditions and the relative weight gain / weight loss was calculated and expressed as % change according to the following formula:

[0109] % change = (final weight / starting weight)*100.

[0110] Test Materials :

[0111] Table 1 summarizes various detergent test compositions suitable for formulation into water-soluble unit dose products. Comparative compositions 1 to 3 do not contain mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants according to the present invention. Inventive compositions 1 and 2 contain a combination of mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants with low levels (inventive composition 1) or absence (inventive composition 2) of pure ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants and are therefore formulations according to the present invention, while comparative composition 4 contains mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants and excessively high levels of pure ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactants and is therefore a formulation outside the scope of the present invention. These different test formulations have been evaluated for their effect on film swelling of PVOH-based water-soluble films supplied by MonoSol, which contain a blend of mixed PVOH homopolymers-carboxylated PVOH copolymers.

[0112] Table 1: Detergent formulations

[0113]

[0114]

[0115] * Ethoxylated polyethyleneimine having an average degree of ethoxylation of 20 / EO chain and a polyethyleneimine backbone with a MW of about 600

[0116] **Polyethylene glycol grafted polymer, comprising a polyethylene glycol backbone (Pluriol E6000) and hydrophobic vinyl acetate side chains, a polymer system comprising 40 wt% of a polyethylene glycol backbone polymer and 60 wt% of a polymer system grafted with vinyl acetate side chains

[0117] Test Results :

[0118] The water-soluble film % weight change data summarized in Table 2 show that comparative detergent compositions outside the scope of the present invention that do not include a mixed alcohol alkoxylate nonionic surfactant result in film deplasticization upon aging of the water-soluble film when the water-soluble film is in contact with the corresponding detergent composition.

[0119] Table 2: Formulations without mixed alkoxylated alcohols

[0120] Test formulations Weight change % Comparative composition 1 -12.50％ Comparative composition 2 -14.47％ Comparative composition 3 -2.76％

[0121] Table 3 shows the effect of either single variable addition of a series of mixed alkoxylated alcohols (Inventive Composition 1 vs. Comparative Composition 1, Comparative Composition 4 vs. Comparative Composition 3) or complete replacement of ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant by mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant (Inventive Composition 2 vs. Comparative Composition 2). In this context, single variable addition refers to the replacement of non-aqueous solvent (1,2-propylene glycol) with mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant one by one. The all-ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant replacement group has been added to understand whether the observed trend is driven by the insertion of mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant or by the partial removal of non-aqueous solvent (1,2-propylene glycol).

[0122] The weight change data summarized in Table 3 below clearly show that both the single variable addition of mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant and the complete replacement of ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant by mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant affect film deplasticization upon aging. The single variable addition of mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant has a consistent and significantly higher expected film deplasticization effect observed when co-formulated with low or even absent ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant than when the mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant is co-formulated with high levels of ethoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant. In the latter case, even further film deplasticization is observed for the specific case of Ecosurf LFE1410.

[0123] Table 3: Effect of mixed alkoxylated alcohol addition on film deplasticization (Δ weight change %)

[0124]

[0125] ***As defined by internal analytical analysis and supplier technical data sheets

[0126] The following are examples of multi-compartment water-soluble unit dose laundry detergent products comprising a larger bottom compartment with two smaller compartments stacked on top of the bottom compartment in a side-by-side configuration, according to as commercially available in the United Kingdom as of January 2020 and as Figure 1 The Ariel 3-in-1 Pods design shown. The overall water-soluble unit dose product includes an exemplary formulation (Table 2 and Table 3) comprising a surfactant system comprising a mixed alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant according to the present invention. The following composition is encapsulated in a water-soluble film based on polyvinyl alcohol, more specifically, encapsulated in a water-soluble film (obtained from MonoSol Corporation) comprising a blend of a polyvinyl alcohol homopolymer and a carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymer.

[0127] Table 2

[0128]

[0129]

[0130] *Nuclease as claimed in co-pending European patent application 19219568.3 **Added as a premix to the composition: (1 wt% lipase, 33 wt% sorbitol, 21 wt% water, 45 wt% glycerol) - premix components reflected in the above formulated composition

[0131] *** As a premix of the composition: (20 wt% anionic polyterephthalate, 56 wt% 1,2-propylene glycol, 8 wt% water, 16 wt% glycerol) - premix components reflected in the above formula composition

[0132] ****Added as a premix of the composition: (12 wt% hueing dye, 71.5 wt% Pdiol, 16.5% fatty alcohol ethoxylate nonionic surfactant) - premix components reflected in the above formula composition

[0133] Table 3

[0134]

[0135]

[0136] *Nuclease as claimed in co-pending European patent application 19219568.3

[0137] **Added as a premix to the composition: (1 wt% lipase, 33 wt% sorbitol, 21 wt% water, 45 wt% glycerol) - premix components reflected in the above formula composition

[0138] *** As a premix of the composition: (20 wt% anionic polyterephthalate, 56 wt% 1,2-propylene glycol, 8 wt% water, 16 wt% glycerol) - premix components reflected in the above formula composition

[0139] ****Added as a premix of the composition: (12 wt% hueing dye, 71.5 wt% Pdiol, 16.5% fatty alcohol ethoxylate nonionic surfactant) - premix components reflected in the above formula composition

[0140] *****Added as a premix of the composition: (37 wt% cationic hydroxyethylcellulose, 60 wt% PPG400, 3 wt% Acusol 880) a - Premix components reflected in the above formulation composition

[0141] a Alternative premix: (37 wt% cationic hydroxyethylcellulose, 60 wt% Ecosurf EH9, 3 wt% Acusol 880)

[0142] ******Add as a premix to the composition: (40 wt% Ralox PA35, 60 wt% fatty alcohol ethoxylate nonionic surfactant such as C12-14EO7) b - Premix components reflected in the above formulation composition

[0143] b Alternative premix: (20 wt% Ralox PA35, 80 wt% Ecosurf EH9)

[0144] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Claims

1. A water-soluble unit dose product comprising a water-soluble film and a liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises: a. 15% to 55% by weight of the laundry detergent composition of a non-soap anionic surfactant; b. 2.5% to 30% by weight of the laundry detergent composition of a nonionic surfactant; The nonionic surfactants include: (i) between 2.5% and 20%, by weight of the laundry detergent composition, of a first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having the following structure; (I) R1-O-(AO1) n -(AO2) m -(AO3) z -H wherein AO1 is a first alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, AO2 is a second alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, AO3 is a third alkoxy chain selected from an ethoxylate chain, a propoxylate chain or a butoxylate chain, and wherein AO1 and AO2 are different from each other, and wherein if AO3 is present, AO2 and AO3 are different from each other; R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms; n is 1-30, m is 1-30 and z is 0-30, and the sum of n+m+z is at least 10; (ii) between 2% and 10%, by weight of the laundry detergent composition, of a second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant having the following structure; (III) R2-O-(EO) p -H; wherein EO is an ethoxylate chain; R2 is a linear or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms; p is 1-30, wherein the weight ratio of the first alkoxylated nonionic surfactant to the second alkoxylated nonionic surfactant is 1:1 to 7:1, and The water-soluble film comprises a carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymer.

2. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the laundry detergent composition comprises from 3.5% to 20% of the nonionic surfactant, by weight of the laundry detergent composition.

3. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant is selected from those having the following formula: (III)R1-O-(EO) x -(PO) y -(AO3) z -H; or (IV)R1-O-(PO) y -(E.O.) x -(AO3) z -H; in, EO is an ethoxylate group, PO is a propoxylate group, and AO3 is selected from an ethoxylate group, a propoxylate group or a butoxylate group; Each x is independently 1 to 30; Each y is independently 1 to 30; Each z is independently 0 to 30; Each R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms, where the sum of x+y+z is at least 10.

4. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 3, wherein the first alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant has the formula: (V)R1-O-(PO) y -(IS) x -H Wherein EO is an ethoxylate group and PO is a propoxylate group; x is 3 to 30; y is 2 to 10; R1 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 10 carbon atoms, and in, The sum of x + y is between 10 and 40.

5. The water-soluble unit dose product of claim 1, wherein the second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant has the formula: (II)R2-O-(EO) p -H, Wherein EO is an ethoxylate group; p is an average of 5 to 12 ethylene oxide units per mole of alcohol; R2 is a straight or branched alkyl chain having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms.

6. The water-soluble unit dose preparation of claim 1 comprising between 2% and 8% of the second alkoxylated alcohol nonionic surfactant by weight of the detergent composition.

7. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the detergent composition comprises between 20% and 55% of a non-soap anionic surfactant, wherein the non-soap anionic surfactant comprises linear alkylbenzene sulfonates and alkoxylated alkyl sulfates.

8. The water-soluble unit dose preparation according to claim 7, wherein the weight ratio of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate to alkoxylated alkyl sulfate is from 1:2 to 9:

1.

9. The water-soluble unit dose product according to claim 7, wherein the weight ratio of the non-soap anionic surfactant to the non-ionic surfactant is 1:1 to 13:

1.

10. The water-soluble unit dose preparation of claim 1 comprising between 1.5% and 20% fatty acid by weight of the detergent composition.

11. The water-soluble unit dose preparation of claim 10, wherein the fatty acid is a neutralized fatty acid soap.

12. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the liquid laundry detergent comprises between 1% and 20% water by weight of the liquid detergent composition.

13. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the liquid laundry detergent composition comprises between 10% and 40% of a non-aqueous solvent, by weight of the liquid laundry detergent composition, wherein the non-aqueous solvent is selected from 1,2-propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.

14. The water-soluble unit dose article of claim 1, wherein the water-soluble film comprises a blend of polyvinyl alcohol homopolymer and a carboxylated anionic polyvinyl alcohol copolymer.

15. A method for washing fabrics, the method comprising the steps of: The water-soluble unit-dose product according to any one of claims 1 to 14 is diluted 200 to 1000 times with water to prepare a wash liquid, and the fabric to be treated is contacted with the wash liquid.

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