Storage stabilizers for stabilizing aqueous compositions, methods for stabilization and uses thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition upon storage, comprising at least two different sources of water-soluble or water-dispersible ions, the at least two different sources of water-soluble or water-dispersible ions are selected from a source of water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ions, a source of water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ions, a source of water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ions, a source of water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ions, and a source of water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ions. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an aqueous formulation comprising the storage stabilizer, a method for stabilizing an aqueous formulation on storage and the use of a storage stabilizer for stabilizing the pH of an aqueous formulation or preventing growth of microorganisms and viruses and / or bacteriophages or both.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage, comprising at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. In addition, the present invention relates to an aqueous formulation comprising the storage stabilizer, a method for stabilizing an aqueous formulation during storage, and the use of the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the pH value of an aqueous formulation or preventing the growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages, or both. Background Art

[0002] In practice, aqueous preparations, and especially suspensions, emulsions, dispersions or slurries of water-insoluble solids (e.g., minerals, fillers or pigments) are widely used in the paper industry, paint industry, rubber industry and plastics industry as paper coatings, fillers, extenders and pigments as well as water-based lacquers and paints. For example, suspensions or slurries of calcium carbonate, talc or kaolin are used in large quantities in the preparation of coated paper in the paper industry as fillers and / or as components. In addition, such aqueous preparations are also used as additives in the concrete industry and the agricultural industry. Typical aqueous preparations of water-insoluble solids are characterized in that they contain water, water-insoluble solid compounds, and optional additional additives such as dispersants, which are in the form of suspensions, slurries or dispersions, and have a water-insoluble solid content of 0.1% to 99.0% by weight based on the total weight of the preparation. Typical aqueous preparations are white mineral dispersions (WMD) with a solid content of 45.0% to 78.0% by weight. Water-soluble polymers and copolymers which can be used, for example, as dispersants and / or grinding aids in such formulations are described, for example, in US Pat. No. 5,278,248.

[0003] Other aqueous preparations commonly used as fiber preparations, food preparations, pharmaceutical preparations, cosmetic preparations, plastic preparations, plaster preparations, varnish preparations or caulking agent preparations are in the form of aqueous solutions, suspensions, emulsions, dispersions or slurries and contain organic compounds such as carbohydrates (e.g., starch, sugar, cellulose, modified cellulose and cellulose-based pulp), glycerol, hydrocarbons and mixtures thereof.

[0004] The above aqueous preparations are usually stored in bottles, tetra paks, etc. before transportation. TM, containers, large packages or cans. In addition, the above-mentioned aqueous preparations are also usually stored after being transported to retailers or final end consumers. However, during storage, there may be changes in the preparation characteristics, such as changes in pH. Other changes that may occur are changes in viscosity, discoloration or the reduction of other quality parameters, which have a negative impact on the commercial value of the above-mentioned aqueous preparations. In addition, during storage, microbial growth may occur in such aqueous preparations, which means that these aqueous preparations are subject to contamination caused by microorganisms (such as fungi, yeasts, molds, protozoa and / or aerobic and anaerobic bacteria) and viruses and / or bacteriophages. Such contamination caused by microorganisms and viruses and / or bacteriophages is risky to humans, animals and / or crops depending on the species.

[0005] Therefore, manufacturers of such aqueous formulations usually take measures to stabilize the suspensions, dispersions or slurries on storage by using storage stabilizers (e.g. pH stabilizers and / or biocides), since microorganisms in particular can strongly influence the pH by lowering the pH. However, such known storage stabilizers are often risky for the environment and for human or animal health in the amounts used.

[0006] In the art, several methods for improving the storage stability or storage quality of aqueous formulations have been proposed. For example, CA2081831 A1 relates to a method for preventing destabilization of aqueous PCC slurries of precipitated calcium carbonate resulting in harmful changes in their consistency, wherein a stabilizing factor selected from the group consisting of wet and dry hydroxyethyl cellulose, wet and dry hydrophobically modified hydroxyethyl cellulose, alkali-soluble acrylic acid polymers, alkali-swellable associative thickeners, attapulgite clay, alginates, salts of alginates, starches, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carbamate associative stabilizers, hydroxybutyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, guar gum and natural gum derivatives, carbon dioxide in gaseous form and mixtures thereof are added. DE102016002221 A1 relates to a dispersion paint comprising 1 to 15% by weight of pigment, 30 to 60% by weight of filler, 1 to 25% by weight of polymer, 0.1 to 3.5% by weight of alkali metal alkyl silicate, 25 to 70% by weight of water, wherein the pH value of the dispersion paint is 10 to 12. The pH value of the dispersion paint is stable for at least 4 weeks.

[0007] However, as already explained above, it is important on the one hand to stabilize the aqueous preparation against pH changes for a determined amount of time, but on the other hand it is also important to stabilize the aqueous preparation against microorganisms and viruses and / or bacteriophages and to prevent or reduce their growth and / or reproduction.

[0008] In the art, several methods for improving the microbial quality of aqueous preparations have been proposed. For example, EP1139741 describes an aqueous suspension or dispersion of a mineral, a filler and / or a pigment, which comprises a reagent in the form of a solution and a phenol derivative in the form of partial neutralization. US20060111410 mentions a mixture comprising 1,2-benzisothiazolinone (BIT) and tetramethylolacetylene diurea (TMAD) for protecting industrial materials and products from attack and destruction caused by microorganisms. In addition, this area suggests adding a material releasing formaldehyde to such aqueous preparations for improving microbial quality. For example, US4655815 mentions an antimicrobial composition comprising a formaldehyde donor. EP2374353A1 relates to a method for preserving an aqueous preparation (such as a calcium carbonate preparation) of a mineral material. EP2596702 A1 relates to a method for stabilizing an aqueous mineral formulation, comprising the step of adding at least one aldehyde-containing and / or aldehyde-releasing and / or phenolic and / or isothiazolinyl biocide to the aqueous mineral formulation. US20040168614 A1 relates to a paint and / or coating composition comprising an anticorrosive pigment comprising a metal salt containing a metal cation and an anion, and a metal oxide or a metal hydroxide, wherein the molar ratio of total metal to anion is in the range of 1:4 to 1:120.

[0009] Jon L. Hobman et al., "Bacterial antimicrobial metal ion resistance", Journal of Medical Microbiology, 2014, 64, 471-497 discloses the use of metals (e.g., mercury, arsenic, copper and silver) as antimicrobial agents. EP1109562 B1 relates to composite particles comprising a biocidally active oxidized metal in a core and a shell comprising a 2-thiopyrithione salt of a core metal, the 2-thiopyrithione salt of the core metal having a biocidal activity complementary to the activity of the core. The metal in the core may be selected from copper. However, zinc, bismuth, silver or zirconium are also mentioned. AU2001282982 discloses a coating composition for a surgical device comprising a therapeutic water-soluble glass and a biocompatible polymer. The therapeutic water-soluble glass may contain an auxiliary antimicrobial agent, such as silver. EP3627987 discloses an antimicrobial composition comprising a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible lithium ion source. WO2017029482 A1 discloses a composition comprising an inorganic particulate mineral and an antimicrobial metal, wherein the antimicrobial metal is incorporated into the particles of the inorganic particulate mineral, and the antimicrobial metal herein is selected from silver, cobalt, nickel, copper, iron, mercury, lead, zinc, zirconium, molybdenum, bismuth, gold, aluminum, magnesium, niobium, silicon, tantalum, hafnium, lanthanum, tungsten, calcium, titanium, vanadium, cerium, strontium, tin, lithium and combinations thereof. EP2982247 A1 relates to a method for preparing an anticorrosive product, an anticorrosive product obtainable by the method, an anticorrosive inorganic powder composition, an anticorrosive polymer product, and a combination of one or more lithium ion sources and one or more sodium ion sources for preparing an anticorrosive product effective against microbial contamination.

[0010] However, the use of storage stabilizers in aqueous formulations is subject to increasing restrictions. In particular, in the case of storage stabilizers that prevent or reduce microbial growth, restrictions on their concentrations are increasing. However, at reduced biocide concentrations, the efficacy of the corresponding biocide against bacteria, fungi, yeasts, algae and / or molds is generally no longer satisfactory compared to the antimicrobial efficacy observed at higher concentrations of the same biocide, and therefore, the antimicrobial effect obtained at reduced biocide concentrations is generally not sufficient to stabilize aqueous formulations against microbial growth.

[0011] Furthermore, these known antimicrobial agents are generally not able to stabilize the pH of aqueous formulations. Furthermore, these antimicrobial agents are generally toxic and / or harmful to humans, animals and / or the environment.

[0012] Therefore, there is still a need in the art for storage stabilizers that maintain aqueous formulations (e.g., solutions, suspensions, dispersions and slurries) against microorganisms and viruses and / or bacteriophages but avoid or at least reduce the use of conventional antimicrobial agents (e.g., phenols, halogenated phenols, halogen-containing compounds, halogen-releasing compounds, isothiazolinones, aldehyde-containing compounds, aldehyde-releasing compounds, guanidines, sulfones, thiocyanates, pyrithione, antibiotics such as β-lactam antibiotics, quaternary ammonium salts, peroxides, perchlorates, amides, amines, heavy metals (except zinc ions), biocidal enzymes, biocidal polypeptides, azoles, carbamates, glyphosate, sulfonamides and mixtures thereof). Alternatively, these storage stabilizers should provide additional beneficial properties and, in particular, stabilize the pH of the aqueous composition.

[0013] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage stabilizer that prevents or reduces the growth of microorganisms in aqueous formulations (e.g., solutions, suspensions, dispersions, and slurries). Another object of the present invention is to provide a storage stabilizer that avoids or at least reduces the use of conventional antimicrobial agents (e.g., phenols, halogenated phenols, halogen-containing compounds, halogen-releasing compounds, isothiazolinones, aldehyde-containing compounds, aldehyde-releasing compounds, guanidines, sulfones, thiocyanates, 2-thiopyridinium oxides, antibiotics such as β-lactam antibiotics, quaternary ammonium salts, peroxides, perchlorates, amides, amines, biocidal enzymes, biocidal polypeptides, azoles, carbamates, glyphosate, sulfonamides, and mixtures thereof). Another object of the present invention is to provide a storage stabilizer that stabilizes the pH of an aqueous composition or prevents the growth of microorganisms and viruses and / or bacteriophages or both. In addition, another object of the present invention is that the storage stabilizer is easy to handle, inexpensive, and non-toxic to humans, animals, and / or the environment. Furthermore, the storage stabilizer should be insensitive to decay caused by pH or temperature and should be inert towards chemical reactions. Summary of the invention

[0014] These and other objects of the present invention are achieved by the storage stabilizer, the aqueous formulation comprising the storage stabilizer, the method and the use as described in the present invention and defined in the claims.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage, the storage stabilizer comprising at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0016] The inventors unexpectedly discovered that the storage stabilizers of the present invention are capable of stabilizing aqueous compositions during storage. More precisely, the storage stabilizers stabilize the aqueous compositions against pH changes for a determined amount of time or prevent the growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages or both. Furthermore, no additional antimicrobial agent is required in addition to the storage stabilizer to prevent or reduce the growth and / or reproduction of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages. Furthermore, the storage stabilizers of the present invention are easy to handle, inexpensive, and non-toxic to humans, animals and / or the environment. Furthermore, the storage stabilizers are insensitive to attenuation caused by pH or temperature and are inert to chemical reactions.

[0017] A second aspect of the present invention relates to aqueous preparations comprising the storage stabilizer according to the invention, preferably paper preparations, paper coating preparations, fiber preparations, food preparations, pharmaceutical preparations, cosmetic preparations, plastic preparations, plaster preparations, varnish preparations, caulking agent preparations, adhesive preparations, metalworking fluids, coolants, primers, leveling agents and / or paint preparations.

[0018] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for stabilizing an aqueous formulation on storage, the method comprising the steps of:

[0019] a) providing an aqueous preparation, preferably a paper preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation,

[0020] b) providing a storage stabilizer according to the invention, and

[0021] c) contacting the aqueous formulation of step a) with the storage stabilizer of step b) in any order and mixing to obtain a stable aqueous formulation.

[0022] A further aspect of the present invention relates to the use of the storage stabilizers according to the invention for stabilizing the pH value of aqueous preparations and / or for protecting aqueous preparations against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages.

[0023] Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is at least one bismuth salt, preferably at least one bismuth salt is selected from bismuth carbonate, bismuth basic carbonate, bismuth oxide, bismuth hydroxide, bismuth chloride, bismuth iodide, bismuth phosphate, bismuth citrate, bismuth acetate, bismuth lactate, bismuth basic salicylate, polymer salts of bismuth and mixtures thereof, and the polymer salt of bismuth is preferably selected from bismuth salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source is at least one magnesium salt, preferably at least one magnesium salt selected from magnesium carbonate, magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium citrate, magnesium maleate, magnesium acetate and magnesium lactate; polymer salts of magnesium and mixtures thereof, the polymer salt of magnesium is preferably selected from magnesium salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is at least one sodium salt, preferably at least one sodium salt is selected from sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium maleate, sodium acetate and sodium lactate; polymer salts of sodium and mixtures thereof, the polymer salt of sodium is preferably selected from sodium salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

[0027] The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source is at least one potassium salt, preferably at least one potassium salt selected from potassium carbonate, potassium chloride, potassium hydroxide, potassium phosphate, potassium citrate, potassium maleate, potassium acetate and potassium lactate; potassium polymer salts and mixtures thereof, the potassium polymer salt is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and potassium salts of mixtures thereof.

[0028] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is at least one zinc salt, more preferably at least one zinc salt selected from zinc carbonate, zinc oxide, zinc chloride, zinc hydroxide, zinc phosphate, zinc citrate, zinc maleate, zinc acetate and zinc lactate; polymer salts of zinc and mixtures thereof, the polymer salts of zinc are preferably selected from zinc salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the invention, the storage stabilizer comprises water, and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the pH value of the storage stabilizer is in the range of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11.

[0031] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the weight ratio of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the invention, the storage stabilizer is free of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible lithium ion source.

[0033] According to another embodiment of the invention, the storage stabilizer comprises further additives selected from the group consisting of dispersants, viscosity agents, thickeners, rheology additives and defoamers.

[0034] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are (i) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or (ii) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0035] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer according to the invention is present in the aqueous formulation in such an amount that the pH value of the aqueous formulation is stabilized and the aqueous formulation is kept against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days, preferably for at least 20 days, more preferably for at least 30 days, even more preferably for at least 60 days, and most preferably for 90 days.

[0036] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous formulation further comprises (i) at least one inorganic particulate material, preferably at least one inorganic particulate material is selected from natural ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, surface-modified calcium carbonate, dolomite, kaolin, clay, barite, talc, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, titanium dioxide, hydromagnesite, perlite, sepiolite, brucite and mixtures thereof, and most preferably at least one inorganic particulate material is selected from natural ground calcium carbonate and / or precipitated calcium carbonate, and / or (ii) at least one organic material, preferably at least one organic material is selected from carbohydrates (e.g. starch, sugar, cellulose, modified cellulose and cellulose-based pulp), glycerol, hydrocarbons and mixtures thereof.

[0037] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous formulation has (i) a pH value of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11, and / or (ii) a solids content of up to 85.0 wt.-%, preferably 10.0 wt.-% to 82.0 wt.-%, and more preferably 20.0 wt.-% to 80.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the aqueous formulation.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the invention, the aqueous formulation is a papermaking formulation, a paper coating formulation, a fiber formulation, a food formulation, a pharmaceutical formulation, a cosmetic formulation, a plastic formulation, a plaster formulation, a varnish formulation, a caulking agent formulation, an adhesive formulation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint formulation.

[0039] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the microorganism is selected from the group comprising at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, molds, yeasts, algae and mixtures thereof.

[0040] It should be understood that for the purposes of the present invention, the following terms have the following meanings:

[0041] In the meaning of the present invention, a storage stabilizer is an agent that stabilizes an aqueous composition on storage. "Stable on storage" means that the aqueous composition is stabilized against pH changes and / or against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for a determined amount of time. More precisely, stable on storage means that an aqueous composition stored statically at 25° C. does not exhibit a pH value change of more than ±2 ph units, preferably not more than ±1 ph unit and / or does prevent or reduce the growth and / or reproduction of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days.

[0042] According to the present invention, the expression "preventing microbial growth" means that no significant growth of microorganisms (e.g. at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, mold, yeast, algae and mixtures thereof) and viruses and / or bacteriophages is observed in the aqueous formulation when the storage stabilizer is present. This preferably does not result in an increase in the cfu value of the treated aqueous formulation compared to the formulation immediately before treatment, more preferably the value is reduced to less than 100 cfu / 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation using the bacterial counting method described in the Examples section herein, and even more preferably the value is reduced to 80 to 100 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation. It should be understood that the final aqueous formulation (i.e. comprising the storage stabilizer) is diluted 10 times and then 100 μl of the diluted composition is plated to assess microbial growth.

[0043] According to the present invention, the expression "reducing microbial growth" means that when a storage stabilizer is present, the growth of microorganisms (e.g., at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, mold, yeast, algae, and mixtures thereof) and viruses and / or bacteriophages in the aqueous formulation is slower. This preferably results in a lower cfu value for the treated aqueous formulation compared to the formulation without the storage stabilizer before treatment, more preferably less than 100 cfu / 1 ml or 1 g of the aqueous formulation using the bacterial counting method described in the Examples section herein. It should be understood that the final aqueous formulation (i.e., containing the storage stabilizer) is diluted 10 times and then 100 μl of the diluted composition is plated to assess microbial growth.

[0044] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "microorganism" or "germ" refers to an organism of microscopic size, and in particular refers to bacteria, fungi, molds, yeasts, algae and mixtures thereof.

[0045] The term "virus" within the meaning of the present invention is a microscopic infectious agent that contains genetic material (DNA or RNA) and must invade a host in order to multiply.

[0046] The term "bacteriophage" (also called "phage") is a virus that infects and replicates in bacteria and archaea. Phages are composed of proteins that encapsulate a DNA or RNA genome and can have different structures. After the genome of the phage is injected into the cytoplasm of the bacteria, the phage replicates in the bacteria.

[0047] For the purposes of this application, "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" materials are defined as those materials that, when mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, provide less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. "Water-soluble" materials are defined as materials that produce greater than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether a material is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is greater than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0048] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "viscosity" or "Brookfield viscosity" refers to Brookfield viscosity. For this purpose, Brookfield viscosity is measured by a Brookfield DV-II+Pro viscometer using an appropriate spindle of the Brookfield RV spindle set at 25°C ± 1°C at 100 rpm and is stated in mPa·s. Based on his technical knowledge, the skilled person will select a spindle from the Brookfield RV spindle set that is suitable for the viscosity range to be measured. For example, for a viscosity range of 200 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s, spindle No. 3 can be used; for a viscosity range of 400 mPa·s to 1600 mPa·s, spindle No. 4 can be used; for a viscosity range of 800 mPa·s to 3200 mPa·s, spindle No. 5 can be used; for a viscosity range of 1000 mPa·s to 2000000 mPa·s, spindle No. 6 can be used; and for a viscosity range of 4000 mPa·s to 8000000 mPa·s, spindle No. 7 can be used.

[0049] For the purposes of the present invention, the "solids content" of a liquid composition is a measure of the amount of material remaining after all solvent or water has been evaporated. If necessary, the "solids content" of a suspension in the meaning of the present invention, given in % by weight, can be determined using a moisture analyzer HR73 from Mettler-Toledo (T = 120 ° C, automatic switch off 3, standard drying), with a sample amount of 5 g to 20 g.

[0050] A "suspension" or "slurry" within the meaning of the present invention comprises undissolved solids and water and optionally further additives and generally contains a large amount of solids and is therefore more viscous and may have a higher density than the liquid from which it is formed.

[0051] In the meaning of the present invention, "aqueous composition" refers to a composition comprising water. More precisely, the term "aqueous" composition refers to a system in which the liquid phase comprises water, preferably consisting of water. However, the term does not exclude that the liquid phase of the aqueous composition comprises a small amount of at least one water-miscible organic solvent, which is preferably selected from the group comprising methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran and mixtures thereof. If the aqueous composition comprises at least one water-miscible organic solvent, the liquid phase of the aqueous composition comprises at least one water-miscible organic solvent in an amount of 0.1% to 40.0% by weight, preferably 0.1% to 30.0% by weight, more preferably 0.1% to 20.0% by weight, and most preferably 0.1% to 10.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the liquid phase of the aqueous composition. For example, the liquid phase of the aqueous composition consists of water.

[0052] In the meaning of the present invention, a "salt" is a chemical compound composed of an ionic combination of cations (positively charged ions) and anions (negatively charged ions) such that the product is electrically neutral (has no net charge).

[0053] Where the term "comprising" is used in the present description and claims, it does not exclude other elements. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "consisting of" is considered to be a preferred embodiment of the term "comprising". If a group is defined hereinafter as comprising at least a certain number of embodiments, this is also to be understood as disclosing a group that preferably consists only of these embodiments.

[0054] Terms such as "obtainable" or "definable" and "obtained" or "definable" are used interchangeably. This means, for example, that unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "obtained" is not intended to indicate that, for example, an embodiment must be obtained by, for example, the sequence of steps following the term "obtained", even though such a restrictive understanding is always included as a preferred embodiment by the term "obtained" or "definable".

[0055] Whenever the terms "including" or "having" are used, these terms are meant to be equivalent to "comprising" as defined above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] According to the present invention, there is provided a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage, which comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0057] In the following preferred embodiments, the storage stabilizers according to the invention are explained in more detail. It is to be understood that these embodiments and details also apply to the aqueous formulations according to the invention and to their use, as well as to the method according to the invention for stabilizing aqueous formulations.

[0058] Storage stabilizer

[0059] A storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage is provided, which comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0060] Therefore, one requirement of the storage stabilizer of the present invention is that it contains at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources. In the meaning of the present invention, "at least two different" means that two or more, for example three or all four water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are present in the storage stabilizer of the present invention. In the meaning of the present invention, "different" means that if the storage stabilizer contains at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source as a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. Alternatively, if the storage stabilizer contains at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source as a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. Alternatively, if the storage stabilizer contains a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source as one water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. Alternatively, if the storage stabilizer contains at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source as one water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source. Finally, if the storage stabilizer comprises at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source as one water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source.

[0061] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source means that the source comprises, preferably consists of, one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source comprises one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, preferably consisting of one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source. Alternatively, the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources. For example, the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source comprises two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, preferably consisting of two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources. Preferably, the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources.

[0063] It is to be understood that the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source of the storage stabilizer may be any material comprising, preferably consisting of, bismuth ions as cations.

[0064] At least one bismuth ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" or "dispersible in water" refers to a system in which only a portion of the bismuth ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., only a portion of the particles of at least one bismuth ion source is dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one bismuth ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-soluble" or "soluble in water" refers to a system in which the bismuth ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., the particles of at least one bismuth ion source are dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one bismuth ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides more than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of said liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether the bismuth ion source is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is greater than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0065] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "source" of bismuth ions refers to a compound comprising, preferably consisting of, bismuth ions (ie bismuth cations).

[0066] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is provided in the form of at least one bismuth salt. Preferably, the anionic group of at least one bismuth salt is selected from the group consisting of carbonate, oxide, chloride, hydroxide, iodide, phosphate, citrate, acetate, lactate, salicylate, and mixtures thereof. In particular, at least one bismuth salt is selected from bismuth carbonate, bismuth subcarbonate, bismuth oxide, bismuth hydroxide, bismuth chloride, bismuth iodide, bismuth phosphate, bismuth citrate, bismuth acetate, bismuth lactate, bismuth subsalicylate, polymer salts of bismuth, and mixtures thereof.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is preferably bismuth carbonate, bismuth oxide or bismuth hydroxide. Preferably, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is bismuth oxide.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is present as a polymer salt of bismuth (e.g., acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers, such as copolymers of acrylic acid with maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates, and mixtures thereof, which have a plurality of acid sites that can be partially or completely neutralized with bismuth ions). The polymer salt of bismuth is preferably bismuth polyacrylate.

[0069] The polymer salt of bismuth is preferably partially or completely neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising bismuth ions and optionally other alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals, preferably neutralized to a degree of 5.0% to 100.0%, preferably neutralized to a degree of 25.0% to 100.0%, and optimally neutralized to a degree of 75.0% to 100.0%. According to a preferred embodiment, the acid sites of the polymer salt of bismuth are neutralized using a neutralizing agent containing only bismuth. Particularly suitable are neutralized polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates having an average molecular weight of no more than 50,000, preferably an average molecular weight in the range of 1,000 to 25,000, and more preferably in the range of 3,000 to 12,000.

[0070] Such sources of bismuth ions are known to the skilled person and are commercially available, for example, from Sigma Aldrich under the trade name Bismuth(III) oxide, purity ≥98.0% (KT), 95381.

[0071] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source means that the source comprises, preferably consists of, one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources.

[0072] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source comprises one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, preferably consisting of one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source. Alternatively, the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources. For example, the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source comprises two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources. Preferably, the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources.

[0073] It is to be understood that the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source of the storage stabilizer may be any material comprising, preferably consisting of, magnesium ions as cations.

[0074] At least one magnesium ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" or "dispersible in water" refers to a system in which only a portion of the magnesium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e. only a portion of the particles of at least one magnesium ion source is dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one magnesium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-soluble" or "soluble in water" refers to a property in which the magnesium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e. the particles of at least one magnesium ion source are dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one magnesium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides more than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of said liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether the magnesium ion source is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is greater than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0075] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "source" of magnesium ions refers to a compound comprising, preferably consisting of, magnesium ions (ie magnesium cations).

[0076] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source is preferably provided in the form of at least one magnesium salt. Preferably, the anionic group of at least one magnesium salt is selected from the group comprising carbonate, chloride, oxide, hydroxide, phosphate, citrate, maleate, acetate, lactate and mixtures thereof. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one magnesium salt is selected from magnesium carbonate, magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium citrate, magnesium maleate, magnesium acetate and magnesium lactate; polymer salts of magnesium and mixtures thereof.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source is preferably magnesium carbonate.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions is present as a polymeric salt of magnesium (e.g., acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers, e.g., copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates, and mixtures thereof, which have a plurality of acid sites that can be partially or fully neutralized with magnesium ions. The polymeric salt of magnesium is preferably magnesium polyacrylate.

[0079] The polymer salt of magnesium is preferably partially or completely neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising magnesium ions and optionally other alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals, preferably neutralized to a degree of 5.0% to 100.0%, preferably neutralized to a degree of 25.0% to 100.0%, and most preferably neutralized to a degree of 75.0% to 100.0%. In one embodiment, the acid sites of the polymer salt of magnesium are neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising only magnesium. Particularly suitable are neutralized polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates having an average molecular weight of no more than 50,000, preferably an average molecular weight in the range of 1,000 to 25,000, and more preferably in the range of 3,000 to 12,000.

[0080] Such magnesium ion sources are known to the skilled person and are commercially available, for example, from Sigma Aldrich under the trade name Magnesiumcarbonat (tested according to Ph. Eur., heavy), 63032.

[0081] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source means that the source comprises, preferably consists of, one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources.

[0082] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source comprises one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, preferably consisting of one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source. Alternatively, the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources. For example, the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source comprises two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources. Preferably, the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, preferably consisting of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources.

[0083] It is to be understood that the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source of the present storage stabilizer may be any material comprising, preferably consisting of, sodium ions as cations.

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one sodium ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible.

[0085] At least one sodium ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" or "dispersible in water" refers to a system in which only a portion of the sodium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., only a portion of the particles of at least one sodium ion source is dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one sodium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-soluble" or "soluble in water" refers to a system in which the sodium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., the particles of at least one sodium ion source are dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one lithium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides greater than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of said liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether the sodium ion source is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is greater than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0086] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "source" of sodium ions refers to a compound comprising, preferably consisting of, sodium ions (ie sodium cations).

[0087] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is preferably provided in the form of at least one sodium salt. Preferably, the anionic group of the at least one sodium salt is selected from the group comprising carbonate, chloride, hydroxide, phosphate, citrate, maleate, acetate, lactate and mixtures thereof. In particular, at least one sodium salt is selected from sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium maleate, sodium acetate and sodium lactate, polymer salts of sodium and mixtures thereof.

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is preferably sodium carbonate.

[0089] Additionally or alternatively, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is present as a polymer salt of sodium (e.g., acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers, such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates, and mixtures thereof, which have a plurality of acid sites that can be partially or completely neutralized with sodium ions). The polymer salt of sodium is preferably selected from Li2Na2 polyphosphate, sodium lithium hexametaphosphate, or sodium polyacrylate.

[0090] The polymer salt of sodium is preferably partially or completely neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising sodium ions and optionally other alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals, preferably neutralized to a degree of 5.0% to 100.0%, preferably neutralized to a degree of 25.0% to 100.0%, and most preferably neutralized to a degree of 75.0% to 100.0%. In one embodiment, the acid sites of the polymer salt of sodium are neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising only sodium. Particularly suitable are neutralized polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates having an average molecular weight of no more than 50,000, preferably an average molecular weight in the range of 1,000 to 25,000, and more preferably in the range of 3,000 to 12,000.

[0091] Such sodium ion sources are known to the skilled person and are commercially available, for example, from Sigma Aldrich under the trade name Natriumcarbonat, powder, 99.5%, ACS reagent, 223530.

[0092] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source means that the source comprises, preferably consists of, one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources.

[0093] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source comprises one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, preferably consists of one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source. Alternatively, the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, preferably consists of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources. For example, the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source comprises two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, preferably consists of two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources. Preferably, the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, preferably consists of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources.

[0094] It is to be understood that the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source of the present storage stabilizer may be any material comprising, preferably consisting of, potassium ions as cations.

[0095] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one potassium ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible.

[0096] At least one potassium ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" or "dispersible in water" refers to a system in which only a portion of the potassium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., only a portion of the particles of the at least one potassium ion source is dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one potassium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-soluble" or "soluble in water" refers to a system in which the potassium ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., the particles of the at least one potassium ion source are dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one potassium ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides more than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of said liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether the potassium ion source is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is more than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0097] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "source" of potassium ions refers to a compound comprising potassium ions (ie potassium cations), preferably consisting of potassium ions (ie potassium cations).

[0098] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source is preferably provided in the form of at least one potassium salt. Preferably, the anionic group of the at least one potassium salt is selected from the group comprising carbonate, chloride, hydroxide, phosphate, citrate, maleate, acetate, lactate and mixtures thereof. In particular, the at least one potassium salt is selected from potassium carbonate, potassium chloride, potassium hydroxide, potassium phosphate, potassium citrate, potassium maleate, potassium acetate and potassium lactate, polymer salts of potassium and mixtures thereof.

[0099] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source is preferably potassium carbonate.

[0100] Additionally or alternatively, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source is present as a polymeric salt of potassium (e.g., acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates, and mixtures thereof, which have multiple acid sites that can be partially or fully neutralized with potassium ions).

[0101] The polymer salt of potassium is preferably partially or completely neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising potassium ions and optionally other alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals, preferably neutralized to an extent of 5.0% to 100.0%, preferably neutralized to an extent of 25.0% to 100.0%, and most preferably neutralized to an extent of 75.0% to 100.0%. In one embodiment, the acid sites of the polymer salt of potassium are neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising only potassium. Particularly suitable are neutralized polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates having an average molecular weight of no more than 50,000, preferably an average molecular weight in the range of 1,000 to 25,000, and more preferably in the range of 3,000 to 12,000.

[0102] Such potassium ion sources are known to the skilled person and are commercially available, for example, from Sigma Aldrich under the trade name Kaliumcarbonat, ACS reagent, ≥99.0%, 209619.

[0103] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source means that the source comprises, preferably consists of, one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources.

[0104] In one embodiment of the invention, the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source comprises one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, preferably consists of one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. Alternatively, the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources, preferably consists of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources. For example, the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source comprises two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources, preferably consists of two or three water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources. Preferably, the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source comprises two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources, preferably consists of two or more water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources.

[0105] It is to be understood that the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source of the present storage stabilizer may be any material comprising, preferably consisting of, zinc ions as cations.

[0106] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one zinc ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible.

[0107] At least one zinc ion source is water-soluble or water-dispersible. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-insoluble" or "water-dispersible" or "dispersible in water" refers to a system in which only a portion of the zinc ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., only a portion of the particles of at least one zinc ion source is dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one zinc ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides less than or equal to 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of the liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In the meaning of the present invention, the term "water-soluble" or "soluble in water" refers to a system in which the zinc ion source forms a solution with water, i.e., the particles of at least one zinc ion source are dissolved in the solvent. More precisely, when at least one zinc ion source is mixed with 100 ml of deionized water at 20° C. and filtered to recover a liquid filtrate, the liquid filtrate provides more than 0.1 g of recovered solid material after evaporation of 100 g of said liquid filtrate at 95° C. to 100° C. In order to assess whether the zinc ion source is an insoluble material or a soluble material within the meaning of the present invention, the sample amount is more than 0.1 g, preferably 0.5 g or more.

[0108] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "source" of zinc ions refers to a compound comprising zinc ions (ie zinc cations), preferably consisting of zinc ions (ie zinc cations).

[0109] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is preferably provided in the form of at least one zinc salt. Preferably, the anionic group of the at least one zinc salt is selected from the group comprising carbonate, chloride, hydroxide, phosphate, citrate, maleate, acetate, lactate and mixtures thereof. In particular, the at least one zinc salt is selected from zinc carbonate, zinc oxide, zinc chloride, zinc hydroxide, zinc phosphate, zinc citrate, zinc maleate, zinc acetate and zinc lactate, polymer salts of zinc and mixtures thereof.

[0110] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is preferably zinc carbonate, zinc oxide or zinc hydroxide. Preferably the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is zinc oxide.

[0111] Additionally or alternatively, at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is present as a polymeric salt of zinc (e.g., acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers, e.g., copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates, and mixtures thereof, which have a plurality of acid sites that can be partially or fully neutralized with zinc ions. The polymeric salt of zinc is preferably selected from zinc polyacrylates.

[0112] The polymer salt of zinc is preferably partially or completely neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising zinc ions and optionally other alkali metals and / or alkaline earth metals, preferably neutralized to an extent of 5.0% to 100.0%, preferably neutralized to an extent of 25.0% to 100.0%, and most preferably neutralized to an extent of 75.0% to 100.0%. In one embodiment, the acid sites of the polymer salt of zinc are neutralized using a neutralizing agent comprising only zinc. Particularly suitable are neutralized polyacrylates and / or polymethacrylates having an average molecular weight of no more than 50,000, preferably an average molecular weight in the range of 1,000 to 25,000, and more preferably in the range of 3,000 to 12,000.

[0113] Such zinc ion sources are known to the skilled person and are commercially available, for example, from Sigma Aldrich under the trade names Zinkoxid, puriss Pa, ACS reagent, > 99.0% (KT).

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, and the two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0115] For example, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following, preferably consists of a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following: a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0116] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following, preferably consists of a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following: a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0117] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following, preferably consists of a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following: a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0118] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following, preferably consists of a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following: a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source.

[0119] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following, preferably consists of a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source selected from the following: a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises, preferably consists of, a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, or a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, or a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, or a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0121] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises three different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of three different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, and the three different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0122] For example, a storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions.

[0123] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions.

[0124] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions.

[0125] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions.

[0126] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions.

[0127] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions.

[0128] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions.

[0129] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions.

[0130] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions and a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions.

[0131] Alternatively, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition upon storage comprises, preferably consists of, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in combination with a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source.

[0132] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises four different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consisting of four different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, the four different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources. According to a preferred embodiment, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises the following, preferably consisting of the following: water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources.

[0133] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises five different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of five different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, and the five different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources. More precisely, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises the following, preferably consists of the following: water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion sources, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion sources, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion sources.

[0134] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, namely (i) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or (ii) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0135] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, namely (i) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or (ii) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

[0136] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, namely a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source (wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is at least one bismuth salt, preferably at least one bismuth salt is selected from bismuth carbonate, bismuth subcarbonate, bismuth oxide, bismuth hydroxide, bismuth chloride, bismuth iodide, bismuth phosphate, bismuth citrate, bismuth acetate, bismuth lactate, bismuth subsalicylate, polymer salts of bismuth and mixtures thereof, the polymer salt of bismuth is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and bismuth salts of mixtures thereof) and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source (wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source is at least one The invention relates to a magnesium salt of at least one magnesium salt, preferably at least one magnesium salt selected from magnesium carbonate, magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium citrate, magnesium maleate, magnesium acetate and magnesium lactate; a polymer salt of magnesium and a mixture thereof, the polymer salt of magnesium is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and magnesium salts of mixtures thereof) or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is at least one sodium salt, preferably at least one sodium salt selected from sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium maleate, sodium acetate and sodium lactate; a polymer salt of sodium and a mixture thereof, the polymer salt of sodium is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and sodium salts of mixtures thereof). According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises, preferably consists of, at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, i.e., a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source (preferably bismuth oxide) and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source (preferably magnesium carbonate) or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (preferably sodium carbonate).

[0137] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises, preferably consists of: at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, namely a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is at least one sodium salt, preferably at least one sodium salt is selected from sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium maleate, sodium acetate and sodium lactate; a polymer salt of sodium and a mixture thereof, wherein the polymer salt of sodium is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as The present invention relates to a water-containing composition comprising a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source) and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is at least one zinc salt, more preferably at least one zinc salt selected from zinc carbonate, zinc oxide, zinc chloride, zinc hydroxide, zinc phosphate, zinc citrate, zinc maleate, zinc acetate and zinc lactate; a zinc polymer salt and a mixture thereof, wherein the zinc polymer salt is preferably selected from acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof). According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises, preferably consists of, at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, i.e., a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (preferably sodium carbonate) and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (preferably zinc oxide) in combination.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, preferably consists of two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, the two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, with the proviso that if the first water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, the second water-soluble or water-dispersible ion source is not sodium carbonate and / or sodium bicarbonate.

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer of the present invention is in the form of a solid, preferably in the form of a granular material. The term "solid" according to the present invention refers to a material that is solid at standard ambient temperature and pressure (SATP), wherein the standard ambient temperature and pressure (SATP) refers to a temperature of 298.15K (25°C) and an absolute pressure of 1 bar. The solid can be in the form of a powder, tablet, granule, flake, etc.

[0140] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer is present in a liquid medium. Thus, the term "liquid medium" refers to a material that is liquid at standard ambient temperature and pressure (SATP), which refers to a temperature of 298.15K (25°C) and an absolute pressure of 1 bar. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer comprises water and forms a solution or dispersion or slurry.

[0141] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "solution" refers to a storage stabilizer dissolved in water, wherein no discrete solid particles are observed in the solvent, i.e. a solution with water is formed, wherein a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions and / or a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions and / or a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions and / or a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions and / or a water-soluble or water-dispersible source of zinc ions are dissolved in the water.

[0142] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "dispersion" or "suspension" refers to a storage stabilizer dissolved in water, wherein at least a portion of the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and / or the water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and / or the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and / or the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and / or the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is present in the water as an insoluble solid.

[0143] In addition to water, further solvents may be present in the liquid phase.The solvent is a water-miscible organic solvent, preferably selected from the group comprising methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran and mixtures thereof.

[0144] For example, the liquid phase comprises water and at least one water-miscible organic solvent in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 40.0 wt %, preferably 0.1 wt % to 30.0 wt %, more preferably 0.1 wt % to 20.0 wt %, and most preferably 0.1 wt % to 10.0 wt %, based on the total weight of the liquid phase. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer consists only of water as liquid phase and has no additional solvents.

[0145] In view of this, the storage stabilizer can be in undiluted (i.e. concentrated) form. In another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer is diluted to a suitable concentration. In diluted form, the storage stabilizer is preferably dissolved in water, wherein the corresponding diluted composition contains preferably 0.001 wt. % to 20.0 wt. % of the storage stabilizer, and most preferably 0.01 wt. % to 15 wt. % of the storage stabilizer, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0146] Preferably, the storage stabilizer is homogeneously distributed in the water and the optional organic solvent. However, in order to avoid excessive dilution of the storage stabilizer, the water content in the storage stabilizer is preferably kept as low as possible or as low as desired.

[0147] It will be appreciated that each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0148] According to one embodiment of the invention, the storage stabilizer comprises water and preferably each of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and / or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and / or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and / or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and / or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0149] That is, the storage stabilizer preferably comprises water and:

[0150] a) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0151] b) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0152] c) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0153] d) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0154] e) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water,

[0155] The proviso is that at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are present.

[0156] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer preferably consists of water and:

[0157] a) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0158] b) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0159] c) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0160] d) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water, and / or

[0161] e) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated on a weight basis relative to water,

[0162] The proviso is that at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are present.

[0163] It is to be understood that the term "ppm" is calculated by weight relative to water, if not otherwise stated.

[0164] It will be appreciated that each of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in the storage stabilizer can vary widely.

[0165] In a preferred embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0166] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0167] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0168] In another preferred embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0169] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0170] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0171] In another preferred embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0172] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0173] In another embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0174] According to an exemplary embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g., sodium carbonate) in an amount of 8000 ppm calculated relative to the weight of water and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g., zinc oxide) in an amount of 2000 ppm. Alternatively, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g., sodium carbonate) in an amount of 7000 ppm calculated relative to the weight of water and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g., zinc oxide) in an amount of 1750 ppm. Alternatively, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g., sodium carbonate) in an amount of 6000 ppm calculated relative to the weight of water and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g., zinc oxide) in an amount of 1500 ppm. Alternatively, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of 5000 ppm of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g., sodium carbonate) and 1250 ppm of a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g., zinc oxide) calculated relative to the weight of water. Alternatively, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of 4000 ppm of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g., sodium carbonate) and 1000 ppm of a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g., zinc oxide) calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0175] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer comprises water and preferably has a pH value in the range of 3 to 14, preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11.

[0176] pH values ​​were measured at 25°C using a Mettler Toledo Seven Easy pH meter and a Mettler Toledo InLab Expert Pro pH electrode. The instrument was first calibrated at three points (according to the stepwise method) using commercial buffer solutions (from Aldrich) with pH values ​​of 4, 7 and 10 at 25°C. The reported pH value is the endpoint value detected by the instrument (signal differs less than 0.1 mV from the average value within the last 6 seconds).

[0177] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the weight ratio of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is 100: 1 to 1: 100, preferably 10: 1 to 1: 10, and most preferably 5: 1 to 1: 5. For example, the weight ratio of at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is 4: 1 to 1: 4.

[0178] Additionally or alternatively, the weight ratio [Bi / Na] of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is 100:1 to 1:100, preferably 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio [Bi / Mg] of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source is 100:1 to 1:100, preferably 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio [Bi / Mg] of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is 100:1 to 1:100, preferably 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4. Bi / Zn] is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio [Mg / Na] of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source relative to at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio [Mg / Zn] of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source relative to at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4 The weight ratio of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source [Na / Zn] is 100:1 to 1:100, preferably 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source [Bi / K] is 100:1 to 1:100, preferably 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source [Mg / / K] is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source to at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source [Na / K] is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4, or the weight ratio of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source to at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source [Zn / K] is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:5, for example 4:1 to 1:4.

[0179] According to a preferred embodiment, the storage stabilizer comprises, preferably consists of, water and a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (e.g. sodium carbonate) and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (e.g. zinc oxide), wherein the weight ratio [Na / Zn] of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source relative to the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is 3:1 to 5:1, preferably 3.5:1 to 4.5:1, and most preferably 4:1.

[0180] According to an exemplary method of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, preferably consisting of a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. Preferably the storage stabilizer comprises water, and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0181] According to another exemplary method of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, preferably consisting of a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source. In addition, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source. Preferably, the storage stabilizer comprises water, and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0182] According to another exemplary method of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, preferably a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source. Preferably, the storage stabilizer comprises water, and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0183] According to another exemplary method of the present invention, the storage stabilizer for stabilizing the aqueous composition during storage comprises a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, preferably a combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source. Preferably, the storage stabilizer comprises water, and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0184] The inventors unexpectedly found that the storage stabilizer of the present invention can stabilize the aqueous composition during storage. More precisely, the storage stabilizer stabilizes the aqueous composition against pH changes and / or against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for a determined amount of time. Therefore, an additive can be used to stabilize the aqueous composition against pH changes for a determined amount of time, or to prevent the growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages, and therefore, the storage stabilizer is easy to handle because there is no need to distinguish between these two functions. According to a preferred embodiment, only one additive (i.e., storage stabilizer) is required to achieve two functions, i.e., stabilizing the pH value and reducing or preventing microbial growth. In addition, in addition to the storage stabilizer, no additional antimicrobial agent is required to prevent or reduce microbial growth. In addition, the storage stabilizer of the invention of the present invention is easy to handle, cheap, and non-toxic to humans, animals and / or the environment. In addition, the storage stabilizer is insensitive to the decay caused by pH or temperature and is inert to chemical reactions.

[0185] Other additives

[0186] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer does not contain at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible lithium ion source. Therefore, no lithium ions are present in the storage stabilizer. In the meaning of the present invention, the term lithium ion "source" in the meaning of the present invention refers to a compound containing lithium ions (i.e. lithium cations), preferably consisting of lithium ions (i.e. lithium cations).

[0187] According to another embodiment of the invention, the storage stabilizer comprises a further additive selected from the group comprising: a dispersant, a viscosity agent, a thickener, a rheological additive and a defoamer. Such further additives are known to the skilled person and are commercially available.

[0188] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer comprises at least one additional dispersant for maintaining the dispersion of the water-dispersible ion source in the presence of water or a solvent in the storage stabilizer. Suitable dispersants according to the present invention are preferably homopolymers or copolymers made from monomers and / or comonomers selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, crotonic acid, fumaric acid, maleic anhydride acid, isocrotonic acid, aconitic acid (cis or trans), mesaconic acid, sinapic acid, undecylenic acid, angelic acid, canellic acid, hydroxyacrylic acid, acrolein, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, vinylpyrrolidone, styrene, esters of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid and mixtures thereof, wherein preferably poly(acrylic acid) and / or salts of poly(methacrylic acid) are used as dispersants. Based on the total weight of the storage stabilizer, the dispersant may be present in the storage stabilizer in an amount of 0.001% to 15% by weight, preferably in an amount of 0.01% to 10% by weight, and most preferably in an amount of 0.1% to 7.5% by weight.

[0189] Aqueous preparations

[0190] Storage stabilizers are preferably used to make the aqueous formulation stable on storage. "Stable on storage" means that the aqueous composition is stable against pH changes and / or against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for a determined amount of time. More precisely, stable on storage means that the aqueous composition stored statically at 25°C does not show a pH value change of more than ±2 pH units, preferably not more than ±1 pH unit and / or does prevent or reduce the microbial growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days. The aqueous formulation can be any kind of aqueous formulation that needs to be stable on storage.

[0191] More precisely, the aqueous formulation comprises a storage stabilizer.

[0192] With regard to the definition of the storage stabilizer and its preferred embodiments, reference is made to the statements provided above when discussing the technical details of the storage stabilizer of the present invention.

[0193] The aqueous preparation is preferably a paper preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation.

[0194] The term "aqueous" formulation refers to a system in which the liquid phase of the formulation or composition comprises water, preferably consists of water. However, the term does not exclude that the aqueous formulation or composition comprises an organic solvent, preferably selected from the group comprising methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran and mixtures thereof. If the aqueous formulation or composition comprises an organic solvent, the aqueous formulation or composition comprises the organic solvent in an amount of up to 40.0 wt. %, preferably 0.1 wt. % to 30.0 wt. %, and most preferably 0.1 wt. % to 20.0 wt. %, and preferably 0.1 wt. % to 10 wt. %, based on the total weight of the liquid phase of the aqueous formulation or composition.

[0195] According to a preferred embodiment, the liquid phase of the aqueous formulation or composition consists of water. If the liquid phase of the aqueous formulation or composition consists of water, the water to be used may be any available water, such as tap water and / or deionized water.

[0196] Thus, aqueous preparations contain:

[0197] a) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions, and / or

[0198] b) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions, and / or

[0199] c) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of sodium ions, and / or

[0200] d) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of potassium ions, and / or

[0201] e) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, and

[0202] f) water, and

[0203] g) optional additional materials and / or additives,

[0204] Provided that the aqueous composition comprises at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources.

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer of the present invention is present in an amount such that the pH value of the aqueous formulation is stabilized and the aqueous formulation is kept resistant to microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days, preferably for at least 20 days, more preferably for at least 30 days, even more preferably for at least 60 days, and most preferably for 90 days.

[0206] More precisely, the aqueous formulation comprising the storage stabilizer when stored statically at 25°C does not exhibit a pH value variation of more than ±2 pH units, preferably not more than ±1 pH unit and / or does prevent or reduce the microbial growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days, preferably for at least 20 days, more preferably for at least 30 days, even more preferably for at least 60 days, and most preferably for 90 days.

[0207] pH values ​​were measured at 25°C using a Mettler Toledo Seven Easy pH meter and a Mettler Toledo InLab Expert Pro pH electrode. The instrument was first calibrated at three points (according to the stepwise method) using commercial buffer solutions (from Aldrich) with pH values ​​of 4, 7 and 10 at 25°C. The reported pH value is the endpoint value detected by the instrument (signal differs less than 0.1 mV from the average value within the last 6 seconds).

[0208] According to the present invention, the expression "preventing microbial growth" means that no significant growth of microorganisms (e.g. at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, mold, yeast, algae and mixtures thereof) and viruses and / or bacteriophages is observed in the aqueous formulation when the storage stabilizer is present. This preferably does not result in an increase in the cfu value of the treated aqueous formulation compared to the formulation immediately before treatment, more preferably the value is reduced to less than 100 cfu / 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation using the bacterial counting method described in the Examples section herein, and even more preferably the value is reduced to 80 to 100 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation. It should be understood that the final aqueous formulation (i.e. comprising the storage stabilizer) is diluted 10 times and then 100 μl of the diluted composition is plated to assess microbial growth.

[0209] According to the present invention, the expression "reducing microbial growth" means that when a storage stabilizer is present, the growth of microorganisms (e.g., at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, mold, yeast, algae, and mixtures thereof) and viruses and / or bacteriophages in the aqueous formulation is slower. This preferably results in a lower cfu value for the treated aqueous formulation compared to the formulation without a storage stabilizer before treatment, more preferably less than 100 cfu / 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation using the bacterial counting method described in the Examples section herein, even more preferably to a reduction of 80 to 100 1 ml or 1 g of aqueous formulation. It should be understood that the final aqueous formulation (i.e., containing the storage stabilizer) is diluted 10 times and then 100 μl of the diluted composition is plated to assess microbial growth.

[0210] Preferably the storage stabilizer is effective against microorganisms selected from the group consisting of at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, molds, yeasts, algae and mixtures thereof, and viruses and bacteriophages.

[0211] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one bacterial strain is selected from Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria and mixtures thereof.

[0212] It should be understood that gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative bacteria are well known in the art and are, for example, described in Biology of Microorganisms, "Brock", Madigan MT, Martinko JM, Parker J, 1997, 8th edition. In particular, such bacteria represent evolutionarily very distantly related bacterial classes, each of which contains many bacterial families. Gram-negative bacteria are characterized by two layers of membrane (exo-membrane and endomembrane), while gram-positive bacteria only contain one layer of membrane. Typically, the former contain a large amount of lipopolysaccharide and a thin monolayer of peptidoglycan, while the latter do not actually have lipopolysaccharide, have multiple layers of thick peptidoglycan, and the outer shell contains teichoic acid. For these differences, gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative bacteria react differently to environmental influences. Methods for distinguishing gram-positive bacteria from gram-negative bacteria include species identification by DNA sequencing technology or biochemical characterization. Alternatively, the number of membranes can be directly determined by thin section transmission electron microscopy.

[0213] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one bacterial strain" means that the bacterial strain comprises, preferably consists of, one or more bacterial strains.

[0214] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one bacterial strain comprises one bacterial strain, preferably consists of one bacterial strain. Alternatively, at least one bacterial strain comprises two or more bacterial strains, preferably consists of two or more bacterial strains. For example, at least one bacterial strain comprises two or three bacterial strains, preferably consists of two or three bacterial strains. Preferably, at least one bacterial strain comprises two or more bacterial strains, preferably consists of two or more bacterial strains.

[0215] In one embodiment, the storage stabilizer is effective against at least one bacterial strain selected from the group consisting of Pseudomonas sp., such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes, Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Pseudomonas mendocina, Pseudomonas oleovorans subsp. Oleovorans, and mixtures thereof; Burkholderia sp., such as Burkholderia cepacia; Escherichia spp., such as Escherichia coli; Alcaligenes sp., such as Alcaligenes faecalis. faecalis; Staphylococcus sp., such as Staphylococcus aureus; Enterococcus sp., such as Enterococcus faecalis; Bacillus sp., such as Bacillushalodurans; Salmonella sp.; Legionella, Comomonas aquatica, Brevundimonas intermedia, Rhizobium radiobacter, Spingobium yanoikuyae, Caldimonas sp., Hydrogenophaga sp., Alishewanella agri, Arthrobacter sp. sp.), Chryseomicrobium amylolyticum, Microbacterium sp., Exiguobacterium aurantiacum; and mixtures thereof.

[0216] For example, the storage stabilizer is effective against at least one bacterial strain selected from the group consisting of Pseudomonas sp., such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes, Pseudomonas putida, and mixtures thereof; Burkholderia sp., such as Burkholderia cepacia; Escherichia spp., such as Escherichia coli; Alcaligenes sp., such as Alcaligenes faecalis; Staphylococcus sp., such as Staphylococcus aureus; Enterococcus sp., such as Enterococcus faecalis; faecalis; Bacillus sp.; Salmonella sp.; Legionella; and mixtures thereof.

[0217] Additionally or alternatively, the storage stabilizer is effective against at least one fungal strain selected from the group consisting of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia membranifaciens, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa; Fusarium sp.; Aspergillus sp., such as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brasiliensis and mixtures thereof; Penicillium sp., such as Penicillium pinophilum, Penicillium funiculosum and mixtures thereof; Aureobasidium pullulans, Geotrichum sp., Acremonium sp., Alternaria sp., Cladosporium sp., Mucor sp. sp., Rhizopus sp., Stachybotrys sp., Trichoderma sp., Dematiaceae sp., Phoma sp., Eurotium sp., Scopulariopsis sp., Aureobasidium sp., Monilia sp., Botrytis sp., Stemphylium sp., Chaetomium sp., Mycelia sp., Neurosporas p., Ulocladium sp., Paecilomyces sp., Wallemia sp., Curvularia sp., and mixtures thereof.

[0218] For example, the storage stabilizer is effective against at least one fungal strain selected from the group comprising Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia membranifaciens, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., and mixtures thereof.

[0219] It will be appreciated that moulds and yeasts are subclasses of fungi. Thus, the at least one fungal strain may be at least one mould strain or at least one yeast strain.

[0220] Thus, the storage stabilizer can be effective against at least one mold strain selected from the group consisting of Acremonium sp., Alternaria sp., Aspergillus sp., Cladosporium sp., Fusarium sp., Mucor sp., Penicillium sp., Rhizopus sp., Stachybotrys sp., Trichoderma sp., Dematiaceae sp., Phoma sp., Eurotium sp., Scopulariopsis sp., Aureobasidium sp., Monilia sp., Botrytis sp., Stemphylium sp., Chaetomium sp. sp., Mycelia sp., Neurospora sp., Ulocladium sp., Paecilomyces sp., Wallemia sp., Curvularia sp., and mixtures thereof.

[0221] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one mold strain" means that the mold strain comprises, preferably consists of, one or more mold strains.

[0222] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one mold strain comprises one mold strain, preferably consists of one mold strain. Alternatively, at least one mold strain comprises two or more mold strains, preferably consists of two or more mold strains. For example, at least one mold strain comprises two or three mold strains, preferably consists of two or three mold strains. Preferably, at least one mold strain comprises two or more mold strains, preferably consists of two or more mold strains.

[0223] Additionally or alternatively, the storage stabilizer may be effective against at least one yeast strain selected from the group comprising Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia membranifaciens, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and mixtures thereof.

[0224] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one yeast strain" means that the yeast strain comprises, preferably consists of, one or more yeast strains.

[0225] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one yeast strain comprises one yeast strain, preferably consists of one yeast strain. Alternatively, at least one yeast strain comprises two or more yeast strains, preferably consists of two or more yeast strains. For example, at least one yeast strain comprises two or three yeast strains, preferably consists of two or three yeast strains. Preferably, at least one yeast strain comprises two or more yeast strains, preferably consists of two or more yeast strains.

[0226] Additionally or alternatively, the storage stabilizer may be effective against at least one algae strain selected from the group comprising Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella emersonii, Stichococcus bacillaris, Pleurococcus sp., Anacystis montana, and mixtures thereof.

[0227] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one algae strain" means that the algae strain comprises, preferably consists of, one or more algae strains.

[0228] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one algae strain comprises one algae strain, preferably consists of one algae strain. Alternatively, at least one algae strain comprises two or more algae strains, preferably consists of two or more algae strains. For example, at least one algae strain comprises two or three algae strains, preferably consists of two or three algae strains. Preferably, at least one algae strain comprises two or more algae strains, preferably consists of two or more algae strains.

[0229] Surprisingly, it has been found that the storage stabilizers of the present invention stabilize the pH of aqueous formulations, wherein the formulations do not exhibit a pH variation of more than ±2 pH units, preferably not more than ±1 pH unit and / or do prevent or reduce the microbial growth of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days, preferably for at least 20 days, more preferably for at least 30 days, even more preferably for at least 60 days, and most preferably for 90 days without the use of conventional antimicrobial agents that may be toxic and / or harmful to humans, animals and / or the environment.

[0230] Therefore, the storage stabilizer and the aqueous formulation preferably do not contain an antimicrobial selected from the group comprising phenols, halogenated phenols, halogen-containing compounds, halogen-releasing compounds, isothiazolinones, aldehyde-containing compounds, aldehyde-releasing compounds, guanidines, sulfones, thiocyanates, 2-thiopyrithione, antibiotics such as beta-lactam antibiotics, quaternary ammonium salts, peroxides, perchlorates, amides, amines, heavy metals (except zinc ions), biocidal enzymes, biocidal polypeptides, azoles, carbamates, glyphosate, sulfonamides and mixtures thereof. Such antimicrobial agents are well known to the skilled person.

[0231] However, it should be noted that it is not excluded that the storage stabilizer also contains small amounts of one or more antimicrobial compounds.

[0232] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage stabilizer of the present invention is present in the aqueous formulation in such an amount that each of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water of the aqueous formulation, provided that at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are present.

[0233] That is, the storage stabilizer is present in the aqueous formulation in such an amount that:

[0234] a) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of bismuth ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water, and / or

[0235] b) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water, and / or

[0236] c) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water, and / or

[0237] d) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water, and / or

[0238] e) at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water,

[0239] The proviso is that at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are present.

[0240] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous formulation preferably comprises at least one inorganic particulate material.

[0241] In the meaning of the present invention, the term "at least one" inorganic particulate material means that the inorganic particulate material comprises, preferably consists of, one or more inorganic particulate materials.

[0242] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises one inorganic particulate material, preferably consists of one inorganic particulate material. Alternatively, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises two or more inorganic particulate materials, preferably consists of two or more inorganic particulate materials. For example, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises two or three inorganic particulate materials, preferably consists of two or three inorganic particulate materials. Preferably, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises one inorganic particulate material, preferably consists of one inorganic particulate material.

[0243] For example, at least one inorganic particulate material is selected from the group consisting of natural ground calcium carbonate, natural and / or synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate, surface-modified calcium carbonate, dolomite, kaolin, clay, barite, talc, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, titanium dioxide, hydromagnesite, perlite, sepiolite, brucite, and mixtures thereof.

[0244] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises natural ground calcium carbonate and / or synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate and / or surface-modified calcium carbonate. Preferably, at least one inorganic particulate material comprises natural ground calcium carbonate and / or synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate.

[0245] "Ground calcium carbonate" (GCC) in the meaning of the present invention is calcium carbonate obtained from natural sources (e.g. limestone, marble or chalk) and processed by treatments such as grinding, sieving and / or classifying (by wet and / or dry processes, for example by cyclones or classifiers).

[0246] "Precipitated calcium carbonate" (PCC) in the meaning of the present invention is a synthetic material generally obtained by precipitation following the reaction of carbon dioxide and lime in an aqueous environment or by precipitating a source of calcium and carbonate ions in water.

[0247] "Surface-modified calcium carbonate" can be characterized by surface-reacted GCC or PCC. Surface-reacted calcium carbonate can be prepared by providing GCC or PCC in the form of an aqueous suspension and adding an acid to the suspension. Suitable acids are, for example, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, or a mixture thereof. In the next step, the calcium carbonate is treated with gaseous carbon dioxide. If a strong acid (such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid) is used for the acid treatment step, carbon dioxide will automatically form in situ. Additionally or alternatively, carbon dioxide can be supplied from an external source. Surface-reacted calcium carbonate is described in, for example, US20120031576 A1, WO2009074492 A1, EP2264109 A1, EP2070991A1, EP2264108A1, WO0039222A1, WO2004083316A1, or WO2005121257A2.

[0248] The natural ground calcium carbonate and / or the synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate and / or the surface-modified calcium carbonate may additionally be surface treated or may contain a dispersant known to the skilled person. For example, the dispersant may be an acrylate-based dispersant.

[0249] If the aqueous formulation comprises at least one inorganic particulate material, the at least one inorganic particulate material may have a particle size distribution as conventionally used for the materials involved in the type of product to be produced. Typically, 90% of the particles will have an esd (equivalent spherical diameter, as measured by a well-known sedimentation technique using a Sedigraph 5120 series from Micromeritics) of less than 5 μm. The particle esd of the coarse inorganic particulate material may be generally (i.e. at least 90% by weight) in the range of 1 μm to 5 μm. The particle esd of the fine inorganic particulate material may be generally less than 2 μm, for example 50.0% to 99.0% by weight is less than 2 μm, and preferably 60.0% to 90.0% by weight is less than 2 μm. Preferably, the esd of the at least one inorganic particulate material in the aqueous formulation as measured using a Sedigraph 5120 series from Micromeritics Instrument Corporation. TM 5120 Measured weight median particle size d 50 Values ​​are 0.1 μm to 5 μm, preferably 0.2 μm to 2 μm, and most preferably 0.35 μm to 1 μm, for example 0.7 μm.

[0250] The "particle size" of a particulate material herein is determined by its particle size distribution d x (weight). Among them, the value d x (weight) represents the diameter at which x weight % of the particles have a diameter smaller than d x (weight). This means, for example, that d 20 The value of d is the particle size that is smaller than 20% by weight of all particles. 50 The (weight) value is the weight median particle size, i.e., the particle size below which 50% by weight of all particles are smaller, and d 98 The (weight) value (called the weight-based top cut) is the particle size below which 98% by weight of all particles are smaller. The weight-based median particle size d 50 (weight) and top cut d 98 (Weight) is measured by sedimentation, which is the analysis of sedimentation behavior in a gravitational field. TMThe measurement was performed using a 5120. This method and instrument are known to the skilled person and are commonly used to determine particle size distribution. The measurement was performed in a 0.1 wt% aqueous solution of Na4P2O7. The sample was dispersed using a high-speed stirrer and ultrasound.

[0251] In order to keep such inorganic particulate material dispersed in the aqueous formulation and thus ensure that the viscosity of the formulation remains essentially the same over time, additives such as dispersants can be used. Suitable dispersants according to the invention are preferably homopolymers or copolymers made from monomers and / or comonomers selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, itaconic acid, crotonic acid, fumaric acid, maleic anhydride acid, isocrotonic acid, aconitic acid (cis or trans), mesaconic acid, sinapic acid, undecylenic acid, angelic acid, canellic acid, hydroxyacrylic acid, acrolein, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, vinylpyrrolidone, styrene, esters of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid and mixtures thereof, with preference given to salts of poly(acrylic acid) and / or poly(methacrylic acid) as dispersants.

[0252] Additionally or alternatively, the aqueous formulation comprises at least one organic particulate material. For example, the at least one organic material is selected from the group comprising: carbohydrates such as CMC or starch, sugar, cellulose, modified cellulose and cellulose-based pulp; glycerol; hydrocarbons; and mixtures thereof.

[0253] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous formulation comprises at least one inorganic particulate material, preferably selected from the group comprising natural ground calcium carbonate, natural and / or synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate, surface-modified calcium carbonate, dolomite, kaolin, clay, barite, talc, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, titanium dioxide, perlite, sepiolite, brucite and mixtures thereof, and most preferably the at least one inorganic particulate material comprises natural ground calcium carbonate and / or synthetic precipitated calcium carbonate.

[0254] The aqueous formulation is therefore preferably an aqueous suspension or slurry.

[0255] It should be understood that the solid content of the aqueous formulation can be up to 85.0 wt %. For example, based on the total weight of the aqueous formulation, the solid content of the aqueous formulation is 10.0 wt % to 82.0 wt %, and more preferably 20.0 wt % to 80.0 wt %.

[0256] In the meaning of the present application, the total solids content corresponds to the residual weight of the aqueous formulation after drying at 105° C. for 3 hours, as measured in a sample of at least 3 g to 5 g.

[0257] The pH of the aqueous formulation can vary within a wide range and is preferably within the pH range typically observed for such aqueous formulations. Thus, it will be appreciated that the aqueous formulation preferably has a pH value of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11.

[0258] Typically, the viscosity of the aqueous formulation is preferably in the range of 50 mPa·s to 2000 mPa·s, and preferably 80 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s. For this purpose, the Brookfield viscosity is measured by a Brookfield DV-II+Pro viscometer using an appropriate spindle of a Brookfield RV spindle set at 25°C ± 1°C at 100 rpm and is stated in mPa·s.

[0259] The aqueous formulations according to the invention can be produced by methods known in the art, for example by dispersing, suspending or slurrying water-insoluble solids, preferably inorganic particulate materials, in water, if appropriate with addition of dispersants and, if appropriate, with addition of further additives.

[0260] Method for stabilizing aqueous formulations on storage

[0261] The present invention also relates to a method for stabilizing an aqueous formulation on storage, the method comprising the following steps:

[0262] a) providing an aqueous preparation, preferably a paper preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation,

[0263] b) providing a storage stabilizer as defined herein, and

[0264] c) contacting the aqueous formulation of step a) with the storage stabilizer of step b) in any order and mixing to obtain a stable aqueous formulation.

[0265] With regard to the definitions of the aqueous formulation, the storage stabilizer, the microorganisms, the viruses and / or the bacteriophages and their preferred embodiments, reference is made to the statements provided above when discussing the technical details of the aqueous formulation and the storage stabilizer according to the invention.

[0266] According to step c) of the process of the invention, the aqueous preparation of step a) is contacted and mixed with the storage stabilizer of step b).

[0267] In general, the aqueous formulation of step a) and the at least one storage stabilizer of step b) can be contacted by any conventional means known to the skilled person.

[0268] It will be appreciated that step c) is preferably carried out by adding the storage stabilizer of step b) to the aqueous formulation of step a).

[0269] Preferably, step c) is performed, wherein the storage stabilizer is added to the aqueous formulation under mixing. Adequate mixing can be achieved by shaking the aqueous formulation or by stirring (which can provide more thorough mixing). In one embodiment of the invention, step c) is performed under stirring to ensure thorough mixing of the aqueous formulation and the storage stabilizer. Such stirring can be performed continuously or discontinuously.

[0270] In one embodiment, step c) is carried out wherein the storage stabilizer is added to the aqueous formulation in such an amount that the amount of each of the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources (selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source) is present in the aqueous formulation in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

[0271] It will be appreciated that the amount of each of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source in the aqueous formulation can vary over a wide range.

[0272] It should be noted that the above amounts reflect the amount of antimicrobial composition added to the aqueous formulation via at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source, and do not include any dissolved bismuth, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and zinc ions that may be naturally present in the aqueous formulation.

[0273] It will be appreciated that the individual components of the storage stabilizer may be added to the aqueous formulation as a premixed composition or in the form of individual components.

[0274] In one embodiment, the individual components of the storage stabilizer can be added to the aqueous formulation in dry form or in the form of a solution or slurry or dispersion.

[0275] The at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source added to the aqueous formulation can be adjusted individually according to the aqueous formulation. In particular, the amount of the storage stabilizer and the individual components thereof depends on the nature and presence of the at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source and water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source used in the aqueous formulation. The optimal amount used within the defined range can be determined by preliminary tests and series tests on a laboratory scale and by supplementary operational tests.

[0276] It should be understood that step c) may be repeated one or more times.

[0277] The storage stabilizer can be added to the aqueous formulation in one or several portions. If the storage stabilizer is added in several portions, the storage stabilizer can be added to the aqueous formulation in approximately equal portions or in unequal portions.

[0278] The aqueous preparation obtained in step c) preferably has a solid content corresponding to the solid content of the aqueous preparation provided in step a). It is therefore understood that the aqueous preparation obtained in step c) preferably has a solid content of up to 85.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the aqueous preparation obtained in step c). For example, the solid content of the aqueous preparation obtained in step c) is from 10.0% to 82.0% by weight, and more preferably from 20.0% to 80.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the aqueous preparation obtained in step c).

[0279] Additionally or alternatively, the pH of the aqueous preparation obtained in step c) preferably corresponds to the pH of the aqueous preparation provided in step a). Thus, the aqueous preparation obtained in step c) preferably has a pH value of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11.

[0280] Typically, the viscosity of the aqueous formulation obtained in step c) is preferably in the range of 50 to 2000 mPa·s, and preferably 80 to 800 mPa·s. For this purpose, the Brookfield viscosity is measured by a Brookfield DV-II+Pro viscometer using an appropriate spindle from a Brookfield RV spindle set at 25°C ± 1°C at 100 rpm and is stated in mPa·s.

[0281] Uses of storage stabilizers

[0282] Accordingly, another aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a storage stabilizer as defined herein for stabilizing the pH value of an aqueous formulation and / or for keeping an aqueous formulation resistant to microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages.

[0283] Preferably, the microorganisms are selected from the group comprising: at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, moulds, yeasts, algae and mixtures thereof.

[0284] The aqueous formulation is preferably a papermaking formulation, a paper coating formulation, a fiber formulation, a food formulation, a pharmaceutical formulation, a cosmetic formulation, a plastic formulation, a stucco formulation, a varnish formulation, a caulking agent formulation, an adhesive formulation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint formulation.

[0285] For the definitions of the aqueous formulation, the storage stabilizer, the microorganisms, the viruses and / or the bacteriophages and their preferred embodiments, reference is made to the statements provided above when discussing the technical details of the aqueous formulation and the storage stabilizer of the present invention.

[0286] The following examples are intended to illustrate the invention without limiting its scope.

[0287] Examples

[0288] Measurement methods

[0289] The following measurement methods are used to evaluate the parameters given in the description, the examples and the claims.

[0290] BET specific surface area of the material

[0291] After conditioning the sample by heating for a period of 30 minutes at 250 °C, the BET specific surface area is measured according to ISO 9277:2010 using nitrogen via the BET method. Before such measurement, the sample is filtered, rinsed and dried in an oven at 110 °C for at least 12 hours.

[0292] Particle size distribution of particulate material (mass % of particles with diameter <X) and weight median diameter (d 50 ) and d 98 value

[0293] The weight median particle size and the particle size mass distribution of the particulate material are determined via a sedimentation process, i.e., by analyzing the sedimentation behavior in a gravitational field. Measurement is carried out using a Sedigraph TM 5100 from Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.

[0294] The method and the instrument are known to the skilled person and are commonly used to determine the particle size of fillers and pigments. The measurement is carried out in a 0.1 wt. % Na4P2O7 aqueous solution. The sample is dispersed using a high-speed stirrer and ultrasound.

[0295] pH Measurement

[0296] By using a Mettler Toledo Seven Easy pH meter and a Mettler Toledo The ExpertPro pH electrode measures the pH of water samples at 25°C. The instrument is first calibrated at three points (according to the segmented method) using commercial buffer solutions (from Aldrich) with pH values ​​of 4, 7 and 10 at 20°C. The reported pH value is the endpoint value detected by the instrument (the endpoint is when the measured signal differs by less than 0.1 mV from the average value within the last 6 seconds).

[0297] Brookfield Viscosity

[0298] All Brookfield viscosities are measured with a Brookfield DV-II viscometer equipped with a LV-3 spindle at a speed of 100 rpm and room temperature (20°C ± 3°C) and are reported in mPa·s. After the spindle is inserted into the sample, the measurement is started at a constant speed of 100 rpm. The reported Brookfield viscosity value is the value displayed 60 seconds after the start of the measurement.

[0299] The amount of additives

[0300] Unless otherwise stated, all quantities expressed in ppm represent mg ​​per kg of water in the aqueous formulation. According to the International System of Units, the concentrations in the water of the aqueous formulation are further expressed in mmol / kg (millimoles per kilogram) or mol / l (mol per liter).

[0301] Bacteria count

[0302] All bacterial counts indicated in the following table are cfu / ml (colony forming units / gram) or cfu / plate (colony forming units / plate), wherein cfu / g is determined after 2 to 3 days after plate inoculation and according to the counting method described in "Bestimmung von aerobenmesophilen Keimen", Schweizerisches Lebensmittelbuch, Chapter 56, Section 7.01, 1985 edition, 1988 revised edition. Unless otherwise stated, each tryptic soy agar plate (TSA, prepared using BD 236950) was plated with 0.1 ml of 1:10 diluted phosphate buffered saline (PBS; pH=7.4, 137 mmol / l NaCl, 2.7 mmol / l KCl, 10 mmol / l Na2HPO4, 1.8 mmol / l KH2PO4). The TSA plates were then incubated at 30°C for 48 hours or 72 hours. The colony forming units (CFU) are then counted and reported as CFU / plate. Counts of 100,000 CFU / g or higher are reported as TC (totally contaminated).

[0303] Solid content

[0304] The solid content (also called "dry weight") is measured using a moisture analyzer MJ33 from Mettler-Toledo with the following settings: temperature 120°C, auto shutoff 3, standard drying, 5g to 20g product. The method and the instrument are known to the skilled person.

[0305] Ion quantity

[0306] All amounts of bismuth, magnesium, sodium, potassium and zinc expressed in ppm correspond to mg values ​​per kg of final product.

[0307] Bacteria, yeasts and molds used in the preparation (all mixed)

[0308] Fresh bacterial cultures of bacteria Pseudomonas sp., such as P. aeruginosa DSM-1707 and P. putida DSM-50906, P. pseudoalcaligenes DSM-50188T, Burkholderia cepacia, such as B. cepacia ATCC-21809, Alcaligenes faecalis, such as A. faecalis ATCC-25094, Escherichia coli DSM-1576 and Staphylococcus aureus, such as S. aureus strain DSM 346, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Fresh yeast cultures of Pichia pastoris DSM-1333, Pichia membranifaciens DSM-70179 and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa DSM-18184 were inoculated from a single colony of a stock culture into 3 ml of liquid growth medium (tryptic soy broth, e.g., Fluka, No. 22092) and incubated at 30° C. with stirring at 150 rpm for 16 to 20 hours to obtain approximately 1×10 9 Overnight cultures of bacteria / yeast and fungi (in tryptic soy broth) were mixed together in equal amounts and 100 μl of the obtained mixture was added to 50 ml of base paint (see below).

[0309] Material:

[0310] Water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source: bismuth chloride (BiCl3), CAS: 7787-60-2; bismuth oxide (Bi2O3), CAS: 1304-76-3

[0311] Water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source: zinc oxide (ZnO) CAS1314-13-2

[0312] Water dispersible magnesium ion source: magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) CAS 546-93-0

[0313] Water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source: Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) CAS: 497-19-8

[0314] Water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source: potassium carbonate (K2CO3) CAS 584-08-7

[0315] Commercial latex paint: White latex paint available from JONAS Farben GmbH, Germany under the trade name 1500001 JONAS Seidenlatex (weiβ)

[0316] Base paint

[0317] The base paint formulations used to test antimicrobial activity are summarized in Table 1a below.

[0318] Table 1a:

[0319]

[0320]

[0321] #1 The wetting and dispersing agent is sodium polyphosphate, which is commercially available as Calgon N new from BK Giulini Chemie.

[0322] #2 The rheology modifier involved methylethylhydroxyethylcellulose, which is commercially available as Bermocoll Prime 3500 from AkzoNobel Corp.

[0323] #3 The defoamer is a mineral oil-based defoamer which is commercially available as BYK 038 from Byk Chemie.

[0324] #4 The wetting and dispersing agent is a sodium salt of an acrylic acid polymer, which is commercially available as ECODIS P 50 from Coatex SA.

[0325] #5 The rheology modifier is a polyurethane commercially available as Coapur 2025 from Coatex SA.

[0326] #6 The white pigment is titanium dioxide, which is commercially available as Titandioxid 2310 from Kronos.

[0327] #7 The extender is a particle having a median diameter (d 50 ) and 5 μm top cut (d 98 ) of dry ground calcium carbonate (marble from Italy), which is commercially available as Omyacarb Extra-CL from Omya International AG.

[0328] #8 The bulking agent refers to a particle having a median diameter (d 50 ), ≤30 ppm >100 μm sieve residue, and ≤0.1% >45 μm sieve residue (ISO 787 / 7), dry ground calcium carbonate (marble from Italy), commercially available as Omyacarb 5-GU from Omya International AG.

[0329] #9 The matting agent is a nanostructured ... 50 ), ≤0.8% >60 μm sieve residue, and ≤2% >45 μm sieve residue (ISO 787 / 7), dry ground calcium carbonate (marble from Italy), commercially available as Omya Calcimatt AV from Omya International AG.

[0330] #10 The extender is a nanostructured ... 50 ) and a top cut of 19 μm (d 98 ) of dry ground calcium carbonate (marble from Italy), which is commercially available from Mondo Minerals as FINNTALC M20SL-AW.

[0331] #11 The binder is a non-plasticized aqueous polymer dispersion based on styrene and acrylate (50% dispersion), which is commercially available as Mowilith LDM 1828 50% from Celanese.

[0332] #12 The defoamer is a polymer-based, VOC-free and silicone-based defoamer which is commercially available as BYK 012 from Byk Chemie.

[0333] Scraper plaster

[0334] The scraper plaster formulations used to test the antimicrobial activity are summarized in Table 1b below. The formulations were used for scraper plaster (negative construction).

[0335] Table 1b

[0336]

[0337] #13 Bentone EW (rheological additive for refined and beneficiated clays, commercially available from Elementis)

[0338] #14Tylose h 100000YP2 (a hydroxyethylcellulose-based thickener commercially available from SE Tylose (Shin-Etsu))

[0339] #15 Dispex AA4080 (a dispersant based on ammonium salts of acrylic acid polymers in water, commercially available from BASF)

[0340] #16 Agitan 265 (defoamer based on a blend of modified nonionic fatty compounds, hydrophobic silica and white oil, commercially available from Münzing)

[0341] #17 Kronos 2310 (a rutile TiO2 pigment surface treated with aluminum, silicon and zirconium compounds, commercially available from Kronos)

[0342] 30-NP (with a CaCO3 content greater than 98% and a d 50 Calcium carbonate products, commercially available from Omya)

[0343] #19 Encor 2100 (styrene acrylic emulsion based adhesive, commercially available from Arkema)

[0344] 0.0-0.2NP (calcium carbonate product with a CaCO3 content greater than 98% and a particle size up to 0.2 mm, commercially available from Omya)

[0345] 0.2-0.5NP (calcium carbonate product with a CaCO3 content greater than 98% and a particle size of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, commercially available from Omya)

[0346] 1.0-1.5NP (calcium carbonate product with a CaCO3 content greater than 98% and a particle size of 1 mm to 1.5 mm, commercially available from Omya)

[0347] #23 Arbocel P 400 (functional filler based on pure cellulose fibers, commercially available from JRS)

[0348] #24 Lubranil N 20 (water-based dispersion for plasters), commercially available from Münzing) dispersion-based adhesive for wood floors

[0349] The adhesive formulations tested for antimicrobial activity are summarized in Table 1c below.

[0350] Table 1c

[0351]

[0352] #25 Calgon N neu (wetting agent, dispersant based on sodium polyphosphate, commercially available from BK Guilini)

[0353] #26 Tylose H 15000YP2 (a hydroxyethylcellulose-based thickener commercially available from SE Tylose (Shin-Etsu))

[0354] #27 Lopon 890 (wetting agent, dispersant based on sodium polyacrylate, commercially available from BK Guilini)

[0355] #28 Agitan 301 (defoamer based on mineral oil (containing silicone oil), commercially available from Münzing)

[0356] #29 Mowilith LDM 1025, 55% (vinyl acetate-ethylene based binder, commercially available from Celansese)

[0357] 10 (having a CaCO3 content greater than 97.5% and a d 50 Calcium carbonate filler products, commercially available from Omya)

[0358] Dispersion-based clearcoats

[0359] The varnish formulations used to test antimicrobial activity are summarized in Table 1d below

[0360] Table 1d

[0361]

[0362] #31 Encor 2100 (styrene acrylic emulsion based adhesive, commercially available from Arkema)

[0363] UH 2881 (polyurethane based dispersion, commercially available from Covestro)

[0364] #33 Agitan 301 (defoamer based on mineral oil (containing silicone oil), commercially available from Münzing)

[0365] #34 Calgon N neu (wetting agent, dispersant based on sodium polyphosphate, commercially available from BK Guilini)

[0366] #35 Coapur 2025 (polyurethane based rheology modifier, commercially available from Coatex SA)

[0367] #36 Pergopak M3 (a matting agent based on polymethylurea resin, commercially available from Deuteron)

[0368] 10 (calcium carbonate filler product with a CaCO3 content greater than 97.5% and a d50 of 7 μm to 13 μm, commercially available from Omya)

[0369] #38 Kronos 2310 (a rutile TiO2 pigment surface treated with aluminum, silicon and zirconium compounds, commercially available from Kronos)

[0370] Antimicrobial activity testing in base paints and commercial latex paints

[0371] Samples of base paint formulations or commercial latex paints were mixed with varying amounts of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source according to claim 1, as set forth in Table 2a.

[0372] All quantities expressed in ppm correspond to mg values ​​of the corresponding ion per kg of the total weight of the base formulation.

[0373] Table 2a:

[0374]

[0375]

[0376]

[0377]

[0378]

[0379]

[0380]

[0381]

[0382] Prepare the base paint formulation E1 to E33 and latex paint samples E34 to E39 comprising the antimicrobial composition according to Table 2a, and mix 50 ml of the base paint formulation or aliquot of commercial latex paint with 800 μ l of aliquots (all mixed), mix thoroughly and incubate in the dark for one week at room temperature. After one week, 100 μ l of 1:10 diluted PBS buffer (phosphate buffered saline 10 mM, pH 7.4, 137 mmol / l NaCl, 2.7 mmol / l KCl, 10 mmol / l Na2HPO4, 1.8 mmol / l KH2PO4) plate was inoculated on a standard TSA (tryptic soy agar) plate (100 colony forming units (cfu) per ml of coating), and incubated at 30 ° C in a Binder 3.1 incubator. After 48 hours, analyze the bacterial growth of the sample, and after 72 hours, analyze the yeast / fungus / mold growth of the sample.

[0383] Testing for Antimicrobial Activity in Screed Plaster

[0384] Samples of the screed plaster formulations were mixed with varying amounts of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source according to claim 1, as set forth in Table 2b.

[0385] All quantities expressed in ppm correspond to mg values ​​of the corresponding ion per kg of the total weight of the scraper plaster formulation.

[0386] Table 2b

[0387]

[0388] Prepare the scraper plaster formulations E41 to E46 containing the antimicrobial composition according to Table 2b, and mix aliquots of 50 ml scraper plaster with 800 μl aliquots (all mixed), mix thoroughly and incubate in the dark at room temperature for one week. After one week, 100 μl of 1:10 diluted PBS buffer (phosphate buffered saline 10 mM, pH 7.4, 137 mmol / l NaCl, 2.7 mmol / l KCl, 10 mmol / l Na2HPO4, 1.8 mmol / l KH2PO4) were plated (100 colony forming units (cfu) per ml of coating) on ​​standard TSA (tryptic soy agar) plates and incubated at 30°C in a Binder 3.1 incubator. The samples were analyzed for bacterial growth after 48 hours and for yeast / fungus / mold growth after 72 hours.

[0389] Antimicrobial activity testing of dispersion-based adhesives for wood flooring

[0390] Samples of the adhesive formulations were mixed with varying amounts of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source according to claim 1, as set forth in Table 2c.

[0391] All quantities expressed in ppm correspond to mg values ​​of the corresponding ion per kg of the total weight of the adhesive formulation.

[0392] Table 2c

[0393]

[0394] Preparation comprises the adhesive preparation E47 to E54 of the antimicrobial composition according to Table 2c, and the aliquot of 50ml adhesive is mixed with 800μl aliquot (all mixed), fully mixed and hatched in the dark for one week at room temperature.After one week, by 100μl of 1:10 dilution PBS buffer (phosphate buffered saline 10mM, pH 7.4, 137mmol / l NaCl, 2.7mmol / l KCl, 10mmol / l Na2HPO4, 1.8mmol / l KH2PO4) plate inoculation (100 colony forming units (cfu) per milliliter of coating) on ​​standard TSA (tryptic soy agar) plate, and hatch in Binder 3.1 incubator at 30 ℃.Analyze the bacterial growth of sample after 48 hours, and analyze the yeast / fungus / mold growth of sample after 72 hours.

[0395] Antimicrobial activity testing in varnishes

[0396] The varnish samples were mixed with varying amounts of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source according to claim 1, as set forth in Table 2d.

[0397] All quantities expressed in ppm correspond to mg values ​​of the respective ion per kg of the total weight of the varnish formulation.

[0398] Table 2d

[0399]

[0400] Prepare the varnish preparation E55 to E61 comprising the antimicrobial composition according to Table 2d, and mix the aliquot of 50ml scraper plaster with the aliquot of 800μl (all mixed), mix thoroughly and incubate in the dark for one week at room temperature. After one week, 100μl of 1:10 diluted PBS buffer (phosphate buffered saline 10mM, pH 7.4, 137mmol / lNaCl, 2.7mmol / lKCl, 10mmol / lNaHPO4, 1.8mmol / lKHPO4) plate inoculation (100 colony forming units (cfu) per ml of coating) on ​​standard TSA (tryptic soy agar) plates, and incubate in Binder 3.1 incubators at 30°C. Analyze the bacterial growth of the sample after 48 hours, and analyze the yeast / fungus / mold growth of the sample after 72 hours.

[0401] Antimicrobial activity testing of bacteria / yeast and mold counts and pH values ​​of treated base paints and commercial latex paints

[0402] When not otherwise specified, the bacteria / yeast and fungi counts represented are given as cfu / gram. The antimicrobial activity of the basic paint formulation / commercial latex paint prepared according to Table 2 is shown in Table 3 below. According to the microbial activity test in the above-mentioned basic paint, the antimicrobial activity is tested weekly in a time period of 10 weeks (W0 to W10). Therefore, aliquots of the basic paint formulation are taken in 10 weeks, and tested weekly with the above-mentioned fresh bacteria / yeast and mold mixture to assess the long-term effect of the antimicrobial activity of the antimicrobial composition added in the basic paint formulation. The pH value of the basic paint formulation prepared according to Table 2 at W0 and W10 is shown in Table 4 below.

[0403] *:legend:

[0404] All count figures describe colony forming units per gram of product: cfu / g

[0405] tc: Completely contaminated (>1×10 8 cfu / g);

[0406] Detection limit 100 cfu / g

[0407]

[0408]

[0409]

[0410]

[0411]

[0412] Antimicrobial activity test for bacteria / yeast and mold counts and pH of treated scraper plaster

[0413] When not otherwise specified, the bacteria / yeast and fungi counts expressed are given as cfu / gram. In the following table 5, the antimicrobial activity of the scraper plaster prepared according to Table 2b is shown. According to the microbial activity test in the above-mentioned basic paint, the antimicrobial activity is tested weekly in a period of 6 weeks (W0 to W6). Therefore, aliquots of the basic paint formulation are taken within 6 weeks, and tested weekly with the above-mentioned fresh bacteria / yeast and mold mixture to evaluate the long-term effect of the antimicrobial activity of the antimicrobial composition added in the scraper plaster formulation. In the following table 6, the pH value of the scraper plaster formulation prepared according to Table 2b at W0 and W6 is shown.

[0414] *:legend:

[0415] All count figures describe colony forming units per gram of product: cfu / g

[0416] tc: Completely contaminated (>1×10 8 cfu / g);

[0417] Detection limit 100 cfu / g

[0418] Table 5

[0419] W0 W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 W6 E40 <100 <100 t.c. t.c. t.c. t.c. t.c. E41 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 E42 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 E43 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 E44 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 E45 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 E46 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100

[0420] Table 6

[0421] E40 E41 E42 E43 E44 E45 E46 pH_W0 8.59 10.93 10.61 10.60 10.71 10.51 10.63 pH_W6 7.67 10.37 10.3 10.1 10.09 10.06 9.97

[0422] Antimicrobial activity testing of bacteria / yeast and mold counts and pH of treated adhesives

[0423] When not otherwise stated, the bacteria / yeast and fungus counts of expression are provided as cfu / gram.In the following table 7, the antimicrobial activity of the adhesive prepared according to table 2c has been shown.According to the microbial activity test in the above-mentioned adhesive, in the time period of 2 weeks (W0 to W2), antimicrobial activity was tested weekly.Therefore, in 2 weeks, the aliquots of adhesive formulations were taken, and tested weekly with above-mentioned fresh bacteria / yeast and mold mixture, to assess the long-term effect of the antimicrobial activity of the antimicrobial composition in adhesive formulations that adds.In the following table 8, the pH value of the adhesive formulations prepared according to table 2c at W0 and W2 has been shown.

[0424] *:legend:

[0425] All count figures describe colony forming units per gram of product: cfu / g

[0426] tc: Completely contaminated (>1×10 8 cfu / g);

[0427] Detection limit 100 cfu / g

[0428] Table 7

[0429] W0 W1 W2 E47 <100 t.c. t.c. E48 <100 <100 <100 E49 <100 <100 <100 E50 <100 <100 <100 E51 <100 <100 <100 E52 <100 <100 <100 E53 <100 <100 <100 E54 <100 <100 <100

[0430] Table 8

[0431] E47 E48 E49 E50 E51 E52 E53 E54 pH_W0 7.55 9.36 9.24 9.34 8.06 9.34 9.28 8.75 pH_W2 n / a n / a n / a n / a n / a n / a n / a n / a

[0432] Antimicrobial activity test for bacteria / yeast and mold counts and pH of treated varnishes

[0433] When not otherwise stated, bacterial / yeast and fungal counts are expressed as cf u In the following table 9, the antimicrobial activity of the varnish prepared according to table 2d is shown. According to the microbial activity test in the above-mentioned adhesive, the antimicrobial activity is tested weekly in the time period of 3 weeks (W0 to W3). Therefore, in 3 weeks, the aliquots of adhesive formulations are taken, and tested weekly with above-mentioned fresh bacteria / yeast and mold mixture to assess the long-term effect of the antimicrobial activity of the antimicrobial composition in adhesive formulations that adds. In the following table 10, the pH value of the varnish formulation prepared according to table 2d at W0 and W3 is shown.

[0434] *:legend:

[0435] All count figures describe colony forming units per gram of product: cfu / g

[0436] tc: Completely contaminated (>1×10 8 cfu / g);

[0437] Detection limit 100 cfu / g

[0438] Table 9

[0439] W0 W1 W2 W3 Control E55 <100 t.c. t.c. t.c. E56 <100 4900 t.c. t.c. E57 <100 11100 t.c. t.c. E58 <100 10600 t.c. t.c. E59 <100 t.c. 24400 t.c. E60 <100 42500 1300 t.c. E61 <100 <100 20400 t.c.

[0440] Table 10

[0441] Control E55 E56 E57 E58 E59 E60 E61 pH_W0 8.43 8.89 9.47 9.47 9.38 9.27 9.14 pH_W3 8.14 9.09 9.13 9.18 9.39 9.60 9.62

[0442] As can be seen from the data in Table 3, the use of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (ZnO) (E3) alone does not stabilize the basic formulation over a 4-week period. In contrast, the combination of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source (ZnO) with at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source and / or at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source (E6, E7) indicates that the basic formulation can be stable for at least 7 weeks.

[0443] It can be seen from Examples 9 to 12, 14 to 17, 19, 20 and 22 to 26 that the storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage according to the present invention (i.e., comprising at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source) can make the base paint stable during storage, wherein it does not exhibit a pH change of greater than ±2 and / or does prevent or reduce the growth and / or reproduction of microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days.

[0444] Thus, the use of the storage stabilizers according to the invention stabilizes aqueous compositions on storage, in particular stabilizes aqueous formulations against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages and in particular against bacterial / yeast and fungal growth for a defined amount of time.

Claims

1. A storage stabilizer for stabilizing an aqueous composition during storage, comprising at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are selected from a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, a water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source, and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

2. The storage stabilizer according to claim 1, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source is at least one bismuth salt, preferably the at least one bismuth salt is selected from bismuth carbonate, bismuth subcarbonate, bismuth oxide, bismuth hydroxide, bismuth chloride, bismuth iodide, bismuth phosphate, bismuth citrate, bismuth acetate, bismuth lactate, bismuth subsalicylate, polymer salts of bismuth and mixtures thereof, and the polymer salt of bismuth is preferably selected from bismuth salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

3. A storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible source of magnesium ions is at least one magnesium salt, preferably the at least one magnesium salt is selected from magnesium carbonate, magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium citrate, magnesium maleate, magnesium acetate and magnesium lactate; polymer salts of magnesium and mixtures thereof, the polymer salts of magnesium are preferably selected from magnesium salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

4. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source is at least one sodium salt, preferably the at least one sodium salt is selected from sodium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium maleate, sodium acetate and sodium lactate; polymer salts of sodium and mixtures thereof, the polymer salts of sodium are preferably selected from the sodium salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

5. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source is at least one zinc salt, more preferably the at least one zinc salt is selected from zinc carbonate, zinc oxide, zinc chloride, zinc hydroxide, zinc phosphate, zinc citrate, zinc maleate, zinc acetate and zinc lactate; polymeric salts of zinc and mixtures thereof, the polymeric salts of zinc are preferably selected from zinc salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

6. A storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble or water-dispersible potassium ion source is at least one potassium salt, preferably the at least one potassium salt is selected from potassium carbonate, potassium chloride, potassium hydroxide, potassium phosphate, potassium citrate, potassium maleate, potassium acetate and potassium lactate; potassium polymer salts and mixtures thereof, the potassium polymer salt is preferably selected from potassium salts of acrylic acid homopolymers, acrylic acid copolymers such as copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid and / or acrylamide, polyphosphates and mixtures thereof.

7. A storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage stabilizer comprises water and preferably each of the water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is present in the composition in an amount of 1000 ppm to 10000 ppm, preferably in an amount of 1500 ppm to 8000 ppm, even more preferably in an amount of 2000 ppm to 7000 ppm, and most preferably in an amount of 2500 ppm to 5000 ppm, calculated relative to the weight of water.

8. The storage stabilizer according to claim 7, wherein the pH value of the storage stabilizer is in the range of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11.

9. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight ratio of the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources is from 100:1 to 1:100, preferably from 10:1 to 1:10, and most preferably from 5:1 to 1:

5.

10. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage stabilizer is free of at least one water-soluble or water-dispersible lithium ion source.

11. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the storage stabilizer comprises further additives selected from the group consisting of dispersants, viscosity agents, thickeners, rheology additives and defoamers.

12. The storage stabilizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two different water-soluble or water-dispersible ion sources are: (i) a combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible bismuth ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible magnesium ion source or a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source, or (ii) A combination of a water-soluble or water-dispersible sodium ion source and a water-soluble or water-dispersible zinc ion source.

13. An aqueous formulation comprising the storage stabilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, preferably a papermaking preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation.

14. The aqueous formulation according to claim 13, wherein the storage stabilizer according to claims 1 to 12 is present in an amount such that the pH value of the aqueous formulation is stabilized and the aqueous formulation is kept against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages for at least 15 days, preferably for at least 20 days, more preferably for at least 30 days, even more preferably for at least 60 days, and most preferably for 90 days.

15. The aqueous formulation according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the aqueous formulation further comprises: (i) at least one inorganic particulate material, preferably the at least one inorganic particulate material is selected from natural ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, surface-modified calcium carbonate, dolomite, kaolin, clay, barite, talc, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, titanium dioxide, hydromagnesite, perlite, sepiolite, brucite and mixtures thereof, and most preferably the at least one inorganic particulate material is selected from natural ground calcium carbonate and / or precipitated calcium carbonate, and / or (ii) at least one organic material, preferably the at least one organic material is selected from carbohydrates such as starch, sugar, cellulose, modified cellulose and cellulose-based pulps; glycerol; hydrocarbons; and mixtures thereof.

16. The aqueous formulation according to claims 13 to 15, wherein the aqueous formulation has: (i) a pH value of 3 to 14, more preferably 5 to 14, even more preferably 7 to 14, even more preferably 7.5 to 11.5, and most preferably 8 to 11, and / or (ii) a solids content of up to 85.0 wt%, preferably 10.0 wt% to 82.0 wt%, and more preferably 20.0 wt% to 80.0 wt%, based on the total weight of the aqueous formulation.

17. A method for stabilizing an aqueous formulation on storage, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing an aqueous preparation, preferably a paper preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation, b) providing a storage stabilizer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12, and c) contacting the aqueous formulation of step a) with the storage stabilizer of step b) in any order and mixing to obtain a stable aqueous formulation.

18. Use of a storage stabilizer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12 for stabilizing the pH value of an aqueous formulation and / or for maintaining the aqueous formulation against microorganisms, viruses and / or bacteriophages.

19. The use according to claim 18, wherein the aqueous preparation is a papermaking preparation, a paper coating preparation, a fiber preparation, a food preparation, a pharmaceutical preparation, a cosmetic preparation, a plastic preparation, a plaster preparation, a varnish preparation, a caulking agent preparation, an adhesive preparation, a metalworking fluid, a coolant, a primer, a leveling agent and / or a paint preparation.

20. Use according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the microorganism is selected from the group comprising at least one bacterial strain, at least one fungal strain, molds, yeasts, algae and mixtures thereof.

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