Stable aqueous surfactant composition

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to stable aqueous compositions of alkyl sulfates that are suitable for a wide variety of commercial applications due to their good cleaning and foaming properties. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to stable aqueous compositions of alkyl sulfates in combination with selected hydrophobing agents, such as essential oils.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to stable aqueous compositions of alkyl sulfates that are suitable for use in numerous commercial applications due to their good cleansing and lathering properties. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to stable aqueous compositions of alkyl sulfates in combination with selected hydrophobic agents such as essential oils. Background Art

[0002] Alkyl sulfate surfactants are widely used in a variety of commercial applications from dishwashing detergents to body washes to shampoos because of their desirable cleaning and lathering properties. However, the use of alkyl sulfate surfactants in aqueous compositions poses a formulation challenge due to their limited solubility in water.

[0003] Even at temperatures above 10°C, aqueous compositions containing alkyl sulfates may exhibit cloudiness and precipitation of undissolved alkyl sulfate. The reason for this is that alkyl sulfates are relatively poorly soluble in water at temperatures below their Krafft temperature, which is defined as the temperature at which the surfactant concentration of a saturated surfactant solution equals its critical micelle concentration (CMC), which is the minimum surfactant concentration at which micelles form. At the Krafft temperature, solubility increases dramatically and micelles form. SurfactantsandInterfacialPhenomena (Milton Rosen, Wiley 1978), the Krafft temperature of sodium dodecyl sulfate was reported to be 16° C. Therefore, at temperatures below about 16° C., the solubility of alkyl sulfates is very low, and alkyl sulfates behave as regular organic molecules. Also, alkyl sulfates may present product stability challenges when formulated into products that are stored, shipped, or intended for use at temperatures below their Krafft temperature.

[0004] In order to maintain the stability of surfactant compositions at low temperatures, it is known to reduce the Krafft point by mixing different surfactants (e.g., mixtures of alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and amphoteric surfactants such as palmitoyl sulfobetaine). However, for various reasons, including to reduce manufacturing and formulation complexity, it is preferred to formulate a single surfactant composition comprising a surfactant system consisting essentially of alkyl sulfate surfactants, particularly non-ethoxylated alkyl sulfate surfactants. Therefore, there is a need for a stable aqueous single surfactant composition comprising a surfactant system consisting essentially of non-ethoxylated alkyl sulfate surfactants. Summary of the invention

[0005] A stable aqueous surfactant composition, comprising:

[0006] a. from about 1% to about 30% by weight of the composition of a surfactant system consisting essentially of an alkyl sulfate, preferably a C6-C20 alkyl sulfate, more preferably a sodium C6-C20 alkyl sulfate;

[0007] b. from about 0.05% to about 15% by weight of the composition of a hydrophobic agent, the hydrophobic agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of: essential oils, fragrances, components thereof, and combinations thereof; and

[0008] c. from about 70% to about 90% water by weight of the composition;

[0009] d. Optional ingredients selected from the group consisting of pH adjusters, calcium salts, boric acid, enzymes, dyes, colorants, preservatives, fluorescent whitening agents, bluing agents, defoaming agents, bleaching agents, thickeners, polymers, preferably anti-redeposition polymers, solvents, chelating agents, gums, binders, and combinations thereof;

[0010] wherein the ratio of hydrophobic active to alkyl sulfate is from about 1:.66 to about 1:20.

[0011] A stable concentrated aqueous surfactant, comprising:

[0012] a. from greater than 30% to about 75% by weight of the composition of a surfactant system consisting essentially of alkyl sulfates, preferably C6-C20 alkyl sulfates, more preferably sodium C6-C20 alkyl sulfates;

[0013] b. from about 5% to about 40% by weight of the composition of a hydrophobic agent, the hydrophobic agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of: essential oils, fragrances, components thereof, and combinations thereof;

[0014] and

[0015] c. from about 10% to about 65% water by weight of the composition;

[0016] wherein the ratio of hydrophobic active to alkyl sulfate is from about 1:.66 to about 1:20. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Alkyl sulfate surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate are common components in hand soaps, toothpastes, shampoos, and body washes because of their ability to remove oily residues and foaming properties. However, the use of alkyl sulfate surfactants in aqueous compositions poses a formulation challenge due to their limited solubility in water. In order to increase the solubility of alkyl sulfate surfactants at low temperatures, it is known to combine alkyl sulfates with other surfactants (e.g., mixtures of alkyl sulfates such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and amphoteric surfactants such as palmitoyl sulfobetaine).

[0018] Consumers are seeking effective cleaning, hygiene, cosmetics and personal care products with simpler formulations, e.g., single surfactant formulations. Some consumers may also prefer substantially clear and / or colorless products. Consumers are also seeking stable products that do not require shaking or mixing by the consumer before use and can be easily (and over time, consistently) dispensed and, manufacturers and formulators seek to produce formulations (both ready-to-use and concentrated, e.g., pastes) that exhibit low temperature stability during transportation, storage and on store shelves. Manufacturers may also seek stable concentrated pastes that can be easily transported and / or do not require premixing or additional processing (before mixing with the remaining product ingredients).

[0019] The features and beneficial effects of various embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, which includes examples of specific embodiments intended to give a broad representation of the present invention. From this description and from the practice of the present invention, various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The scope is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed, and the present invention encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternative alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] As used herein, articles such as "a" and "an" when used in a claim are understood to mean one or more of what is claimed or described.

[0021] As used herein, the terms "including," "comprising," and "containing" are intended to be non-limiting.

[0022] As used herein, the term "natural oil" refers to oils that are derived from plant or algae matter. Natural oils are not based on kerosene or other fossil fuels.

[0023] As used herein, the term "stable" refers to an aqueous surfactant composition that is substantially clear and free of phase separation or precipitation, wherein no agitation or mixing is required for use of the composition for its application.

[0024] As used herein, "substantially free" or "substantially free of" refers to an ingredient being completely absent or having only a minimal amount of an ingredient as an impurity or unintended byproduct of another ingredient. A composition "substantially free of / having" a component means that the composition comprises less than about 0.5%, less than about 0.25%, less than about 0.1%, less than about 0.05%, or even less than about 0.01% of the component by weight of the composition.

[0025] Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as organic compounds that participate in atmospheric photochemical reactions, except for compounds whose photochemical reactivity is negligible. VOCs are typically emitted from certain solids or liquids in gaseous form. EPA regulations define chemicals as "VOC-exempt" if they have a vapor pressure of less than 0.1 mm Hg (at 20°C). If the vapor pressure is unknown, a chemical is defined as "VOC-exempt" if: a) the chemical consists of more than 12 carbon atoms; or b) the chemical has a melting point above 20°C and does not sublime (i.e., does not change directly from a solid to a gas without melting).

[0026] Unless otherwise indicated, all component or composition levels are in terms of the active portion of that component or composition and are exclusive of impurities, for example, residual solvents or by-products, which may be present in commercially available sources of such component or composition.

[0027] Unless otherwise specified, all percentages and ratios are calculated by weight. Unless otherwise specified, all percentages and ratios are calculated based on total composition. It should be understood that each maximum numerical value limit given throughout this specification includes each lower numerical value limit, as such lower numerical value limit is clearly written in this article. Each minimum numerical value limit given throughout this specification will include each higher numerical value limit, as such higher numerical value limit is clearly written in this article. Each numerical range given throughout this specification will include each narrower numerical range that falls within such a wider numerical range, as such narrower numerical range is all clearly written in this article.

[0028] Unless otherwise indicated, all weights, measurements and concentrations herein are measured at 25 degrees Celsius (° C.) and 50% relative humidity.

[0029] Aqueous surfactant compositions

[0030] The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise from about 70% to 90%, or from about 75% to about 85%, or from about 78% to about 83% water by weight of the composition. Alternatively, the aqueous surfactant composition may be more concentrated and comprise from about 5% to about 65%, or from about 10% to about 65%, or from about 10% to about 50%, or from about 10% to about 30% water by weight of the composition.

[0031] The aqueous surfactant composition may be a micellar dispersion or an oil-in-water emulsion.

[0032] The aqueous surfactant composition may contain particles having an intensity average particle size of about 2 nm to about 500 nm, alternatively about 4 nm to about 400 nm, alternatively about 5 nm to about 100 nm. The aqueous surfactant composition may contain particles having an intensity average particle size of less than about 1 micron, preferably less than about 500 nm. The average intensity particle size can be measured according to the Particle Size Test Method described below.

[0033] The aqueous surfactant composition can be clear, as clear means pure to the user. The aqueous surfactant composition can be substantially free of dyes or colorants. The aqueous surfactant composition can be provided to the consumer in the form of a concentrated composition that is mixed with a diluent (e.g., water) prior to use or in the form of a ready-to-use composition that does not require dilution by the consumer prior to use.

[0034] The aqueous surfactant composition can have a relatively high level of clarity (i.e., low turbidity). Some consumers prefer clarified products rather than turbid or muddy (i.e., higher turbidity) products. The aqueous surfactant composition can show a turbidity of less than about 20NTU, alternatively less than about 15NTU, alternatively less than about 10NTU, alternatively less than about 8NTU. The aqueous surfactant composition can show a turbidity of about 1.5NTU to about 20NTU, alternatively about 1.5NTU to about 15NTU, alternatively about 1.5NTU to about 10NTU, alternatively about 1.5NTU to about 8NTU. As described below in the turbidity method, the turbidity of the composition is measured using a laboratory turbidimeter.

[0035] The aqueous surfactant composition can be substantially colorless. Some consumers prefer colorless or substantially colorless products. Color can be measured by any colorimetric or spectroscopic method known in the art. Suitable colorimetric analysis methods include, for example, the Gardner color scale (according to the American Society for Testing and Materials ("ASTM") method ASTM D1544, D6166 and / or the American Oil Chemists' Society ("AOCS") method AOCS Td-1a-64); the CIELAB color scale (according to ASTM D5386-93b); the American Public Health Association ("APHA") color scale (according to ASTM D1209 or AOCS Td-1b-64); the Saybolt color scale (according to ASTM D156 or D6045); the Lovibond (red) scale (according to AOCS Cc-13b-45). The CIELAB color scale can be used to quantify the color of the aqueous surfactant composition. The CIELAB color scale, which may also be referred to as L*a*b*, is a color scale defined by the International Commission on Illumination (abbreviated as CIE) in 1976. The CIELAB color scale represents color as three values: L* represents perceived brightness, a* and b* represent the four unique colors of human vision (red, green, blue, and yellow), with the b* value representing blue / yellow. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular colorimetric measurement, and the observed color can be measured by any suitable colorimetric method.

[0036] The aqueous surfactant composition may have a b* value of from about 0 to about 5, alternatively from about 0 to about 4, alternatively from about 0 to about 3. The aqueous surfactant composition may have a b* value of from about 0.4 to about 5, alternatively from about 0.4 to about 4, alternatively from about 0.4 to about 3.

[0037] The aqueous surfactant composition may contain less than or equal to about 90% by weight of VOC, or less than or equal to about 80% by weight of VOC, or less than or equal to about 70% by weight of VOC, or less than or equal to about 50% by weight of VOC, or less than or equal to about 40% by weight of VOC. The VOC level may be from about 0 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, or from about 2 wt.% to 20 wt.%, or from about 0 wt.% to about 3 wt.%. The VOC may be measured according to California Air Resources Board (CARB) Method 310 for VOC Determination (May 25, 2018). The VOC may come from one or more ingredients in the composition, including solvents and / or essential oils or fragrances.

[0038] The compositions disclosed herein may include naturally occurring compounds or extracts or derivatives thereof. The compositions disclosed herein may include at least one organic, certified organic, U.S. Department of Agriculture ("USDA") National Organic Program ("NOP-compliant") ingredient. The compositions disclosed herein may include at least one food grade or generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient under U.S. law (Sections 201(s) and 409 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of the United States), including direct food additives that are confirmed as GRAS. The use of food grade or GRAS ingredients enables the compositions disclosed herein to be used by consumers without the need to rinse treated surfaces after use.

[0039] The compositions disclosed herein may comprise less than about 15 ingredients, preferably less than about 10 ingredients.

[0040] The aqueous surfactant composition may be affected by fluctuating temperatures during transportation, storage and / or use. The aqueous surfactant composition described herein is stable at low temperatures (i.e., about 5°C to about 10°C). The aqueous surfactant composition has a b* value of about 0 to about 5 and / or a turbidity of less than about 20 NTU, preferably even after repeated exposure to low temperatures and / or after recovery from low temperature exposure to room temperature.

[0041] Hydrophobic Agent

[0042] The aqueous surfactant composition may include one or more hydrophobic agents. The aqueous surfactant composition may include about 0.005% to about 15%, or about 0.005% to about 12%, or about 0.005% to about 10%, or about 0.05% to about 15%, or about 0.05% to about 12%, about 0.15% to about 12%, or about 0.05% to about 10%, or about 0.5% to about 10%, or about 1% to about 10% hydrophobic agent by weight of the aqueous surfactant composition. Alternatively, the aqueous surfactant composition may be more concentrated and may include about 5% to about 40%, or about 7% to about 35%, or about 10% to about 30% hydrophobic agent by weight of the aqueous surfactant composition.

[0043] Hydrophobic agents include materials having an octanol water partition coefficient (at 25° C.) greater than about 1, preferably greater than about 1.2, and more preferably greater than about 1.5, wherein the octanol water partition coefficient of a material is defined as the ratio of the concentration of the material in the octanol phase to its concentration in the aqueous phase at 25° C. Suitable hydrophobic actives for use herein include fragrance oils, vitamin oils (e.g., vitamins A, D, E, and K), natural oils such as vegetable oils (e.g., sunflower oil, rapeseed oil), emollients (such as silicone oils and petrolatum), and ceramides.

[0044] Natural oils include, but are not limited to, coconut oil, babassu oil, castor oil, algae byproducts, tallow oil, borage oil, camelina oil, Oil, selected white fat, coffee oil, corn oil, blue petiole calyx distance flower (CupheaViscosissima) oil, evening primrose oil, fish oil, liver oil, jatropha oil, Lesquerella Fendleri oil, linseed oil, Moringa Oleifera oil, mustard oil, neem oil, palm oil, perilla seed oil, poultry fat, rice bran oil, soybean oil, catalpa oil, sunflower oil, tung oil, butter grease, cooking oil and other vegetable oils, nut oils or seed oils. Natural oils generally include triglycerides, free fatty acids or a combination of triglycerides and free fatty acids and other trace compounds.

[0045] Non-limiting examples of vitamin oils and their derivatives include vitamin A compounds and natural and / or synthetic analogs of vitamin A, such as retinoids, retinol, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate, retinal, retinyl propionate, carotenoids (provitamin A), and vitamin E compounds, or tocopherols, including tocopheryl sorbate, retinyl acetate.

[0046] Emollients are used to lubricate the skin in skin care products, increase the smoothness and softness of the skin, prevent or alleviate dry skin and / or protect the skin. Emollients are generally oily or waxy materials that are immiscible with water. The non-limiting example of emollients can include isopropyl isostearate, caprylic / capric triglyceride, vaseline, dimethicone, dimethiconol and their mixture.

[0047] Ceramide is a lipid composed of sphingosine and a fatty acid or fatty acid derivative connected via its amine functional group. Ceramide is used in skin care products and is believed to improve long-term moisturizing of the skin. Suitable ceramides include ceramide 1, 2, 3, 3B, 4, 5, 6I and 6II. Preferably, ceramide is selected from ceramide 2, ceramide 3, ceramide 3B, ceramide 4, and mixtures thereof.

[0048] Suitable hydrophobic agents may also include plant oils / essential oils (including synthetic analogs). Additional non-limiting examples of hydrophobic agents include aldehyde C16 (pure), almond oil, alpha-terpineol, verbenone, alpha-cedrene, cinnamaldehyde, amyl cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, amyl salicylate, anisaldehyde, cedrol, benzyl acetate, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol, carvacrol, carveol, citral, citronellal, citronellol, dimethyl salicylate, eucalyptol (also known as 1,8-cineole), thujopsis, isoeugenyl acetate, isoeugenol, methyl isoeugenol, galaxolide, geraniol, guaiacol, ionones, menthol (e.g., L-menthol), menthone, parsley ketones (e.g., L-carvone), camphor, p-cymene, bornyl acetate, isoborneol acetate, γ-terpinene, methyl anthranilate, methyl ionone, methyl salicylate, nerol, α-phellandrene, mint oil, perillaldehyde, 1- or 2-phenylethanol, 1- or 2-phenylethyl propionate, piperonal, piperonyl acetate, piperonol, D-pulegone, terpinen-4-ol, terpinenyl acetate, 4-tert-butylcyclohexyl acetate, thymol, trans-anethole, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, castor oil, cedar oil (cedar oil), cinnamon, cinnamon oil, citronella, citronella oil, cloves, clove oil, corn oil, cornmint oil, cottonseed oil, garlic, garlic oil, linseed oil, peppermint, peppermint oil, spearmint, spearmint oil, rosemary, sesame, sesame oil, soybean oil, white pepper, licorice oil, wintergreen oil, star anise oil, clove oil, black seed oil, grapefruit seed oil, grapefruit, lemon oil, orange oil, tea tree oil, tagete minuta oil, lavender oil, lippiajavancia oil, bergamot oil, galbanum oil, lovage oil, and combinations thereof.

[0049] Non-limiting examples of essential oils may include thyme (thymol, carvacrol), oregano (carvacrol, terpenes), lemon (limonene, terpinene, phellandrene, pinene, citral), neroli (linalool, beta-pinene, limonene), orange (limonene, citral), fennel (anethole, safrole), clove (eugenol, eugenyl acetate, caryophyllene), rose (geraniol, citronellol), rosemary (borneol, bornyl esters, camphor), geranium (geraniol, citronellol, linalool), lavender (linalyl acetate, linalool), citronella (geraniol, citronellol, citronellal, camphene), eucalyptus (eucalyptol), peppermint (menthol, menthyl esters), spearmint (carvone, limonene, pinene), wintergreen (methyl salicylate), camphor (safrole, acetaldehyde, camphor), laurel (eugenol, myrcene, chavicol), cinnamon (cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, eugenol), tea tree (terpinen-4-ol, cineole), cedar leaf (α-thujone, β-thujone, finkene), geranium (citronellol, geraniol, guaiac), corn mint (menthol, menthone), garlic (dimethyl trisulfide, diallyl disulfide, diallyl sulfide, diallyl tetrasulfide, 3-vinyl-[4H]-1,2-dithiin) and combinations thereof.

[0050] The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise a hydrophobic agent selected from the group consisting of citronella oil, spearmint oil, corn mint oil, peppermint oil, and combinations thereof. The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise a hydrophobic agent selected from the group consisting of menthol, menthone, citronellol, citronellal, geraniol, limonene, carvone, pinene, and combinations thereof. The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise a hydrophobic agent selected from the group consisting of cedarwood oil, cinnamon leaf oil, clove oil, eugenol, garlic oil, geraniol, geranium oil, citronella oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil, and combinations thereof.

[0051] Alkyl sulfate surfactant

[0052] The aqueous surfactant compositions described herein may contain from about 1% to about 20%, or from about 1% to about 18%, or from about 2% to about 15%, or from about 3% to about 10% alkyl sulfate surfactants by weight of the composition. The alkyl sulfate surfactants may optionally be derived from renewable fatty alcohols, wherein "renewable" refers to fatty alcohols derived from renewable ingredients (e.g., plants) and containing renewable carbons. Preferably, the alkyl sulfate surfactants are non-ethoxylated.

[0053] The aqueous surfactant composition of the present invention may comprise one or more of the formula R 1 —O—SO3M alkyl sulfate, wherein R 1 is a linear or branched, preferably a linear C6-C 20 , or C8-C18 , or C 10 -C 16 , or C 12 alkyl, and wherein M is an alkali metal, ammonium, alkylammonium, or alkanolammonium cation. 1 A distribution of carbon chain lengths may be included, for example, C11, C12, C13, C14, C15, C16. M may be an alkali metal or ammonium cation. R 1 Can be derived from renewable natural oils such as coconut oil, palm kernel oil, palm oil or mixtures thereof. These oils contain the highest concentration of triglycerides and free fatty acids with chain lengths ranging from C10 to C18, particularly C10 to C16, which are particularly useful in detergent products.

[0054] It should be understood that the alkyl sulfates described herein are generally not 1 -O-SO3M, but rather a mixture of alkyl sulfates including alkyl chain lengths (R 1 ). The single surfactant composition disclosed herein may contain a mixture of alkyl sulfates of different chain lengths, wherein the mixture may have an average (arithmetic mean) carbon chain length in the range of about 12 to about 16 carbon atoms, or an average carbon chain length of about 12 carbon atoms. A preferred alkyl sulfate surfactant is sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS (also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate).

[0055] The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise a hydrophobic agent (such as a fragrance or essential oil) and an alkyl sulfate in a ratio of about 1:.66 to about 1:20, or about 1:1 to about 1:10, or about 1:1 to about 1:5. It was surprisingly found that if the ratio of hydrophobic agent to alkyl sulfate is too high, there may not be enough alkyl sulfate to emulsify the hydrophobic active ingredient. If the hydrophobic active ingredient is not sufficiently emulsified, a layer of hydrophobic ingredients, such as oil, may form on the top of the composition, causing the composition to appear cloudy when shaken. However, if the ratio of hydrophobic active ingredient to alkyl sulfate is too low, there may be too much free alkyl sulfate, which may precipitate at low temperatures.

[0056] Sodium lauryl sulfate is commercially available from Stephan Company, located in Northfield, Ill.

[0057] Solvents

[0058] The aqueous surfactant composition may optionally contain from about 1% to about 45%, or from about 1% to about 30%, or from about 1% to about 25%, or from about 1% to about 15%, by weight of the composition, of one or more solvents. The liquid aqueous surfactant composition may contain one or more solvents and water.

[0059] Suitable solvents include alcohols such as monohydric alcohols or polyhydric alcohols. Preferred alcohols are low molecular weight primary or secondary alcohols exemplified by ethanol, propanol and isopropanol, preferably isopropanol. Monohydric alcohols and polyhydric alcohols such as those containing 2 to about 6 carbon atoms and 2 to about 6 hydroxyl groups (e.g., ethylene glycol, glycerol and 1,2-propylene glycol (also known as propylene glycol)) may also be used.

[0060] Suitable solvents may also include esters. The aqueous surfactant composition may include one or more esters of about 0.005% to about 15%, or about 0.05% to about 12%, or about 0.5% to about 10%, or about 1% to about 7%, by weight of the composition. Esters are usually formed by reacting carboxylic acids with molecules containing one or more hydroxyls. Examples of suitable carboxylic acids include acetic acid, formic acid, lactic acid, oxalic acid, propionic acid, propiolic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, caproic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, salicylic acid, caprylic acid, and fatty acids. Non-limiting examples of molecules containing one or more hydroxyls include ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, sec-butyl alcohol, isobutyl alcohol, tert-butyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, polyglycerol, cyclohexanol, and benzyl alcohol. Examples of suitable esters include isopropyl myristate, myristyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, octyl palmitate, isopropyl isothermal, butyl lactate, ethyl lactate, butyl stearate, triethyl citrate, glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl dicaprylate, glyceryl dimyristate, glyceryl dioleate, glyceryl distearate, glyceryl monomyristate, glyceryl monocaprylate, glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl monostearate, decyl oleate, glyceryl stearate, octyl stearate, octyl stearate, putty stearate, isostearyl neopentanoate, PPG myristyl propionate, diglyceryl monooleate, and diglyceryl monostearate. The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise ethyl lactate, preferably from about 0.005% to about 15% ethyl lactate, alternatively from about 0.05% to about 12%, alternatively from about 0.5% to about 10%, alternatively from about 1% to about 7% ethyl lactate overall by weight of the aqueous surfactant composition.

[0061] Additional solvents include lipophilic fluids including siloxanes, other silicones, hydrocarbons, glycol ethers, glycerol derivatives (such as glycerol ethers), perfluorinated amines, perfluorinated and hydrofluoroether solvents, low volatility non-fluorinated organic solvents, glycol solvents, and mixtures thereof.

[0062] Suitable solvents include butyl lactate (including its enantiomers), acetic acid, propylene carbonate, isopropyl myristate, ethyl lactate (including its enantiomers), isopropyl alcohol and glycerol.

[0063] pH Adjusters

[0064] The aqueous surfactant composition may include a buffer system. The buffer system may include one or more pH adjusting agents. Non-limiting examples of pH adjusting agents may include malic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, humic acid, acetic acid, monosodium citrate, sodium citrate, disodium citrate, trisodium citrate, trisodium citrate dihydrate, trisodium citrate pentahydrate, sodium acetate, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the pH adjusting agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium citrate, citric acid, sodium acetate, acetic acid, and combinations thereof.

[0065] The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise from about 0.01% to about 5% citric acid or a salt thereof, preferably from about 0.1% to about 4%, more preferably from about 1% to about 3.5% citric acid or a salt thereof, total by weight of the aqueous surfactant composition. The citric acid may be added to the composition in the form of anhydrous citric acid or citric acid monohydrate. Suitable examples of citric acid or a salt thereof include potassium citrate, sodium citrate, monopotassium citrate, tripotassium citrate, tripotassium citrate monohydrate, or dipotassium citrate. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that citric acid may also function as an active ingredient and / or a chelating agent.

[0066] The buffer system may include an acid such as citric acid and / or acetic acid and its conjugate base such as a salt of citric acid and / or acetic acid. When the aqueous surfactant composition comprises a buffer system, the acid is preferably citric acid or acetic acid, and the conjugate base is preferably the sodium salt of the corresponding acid.

[0067] The pH of the aqueous surfactant composition may be from about 2.0 to about 12.0, alternatively from about 3.0 to about 10.0, alternatively from about 4.0 to about 8.0.

[0068] preservative

[0069] The aqueous surfactant composition may include one or more preservatives. "Preservative" as used herein is any substance or compound added to prevent decay, decomposition or deterioration. Preservatives may be natural or synthetic. Preservatives may be antimicrobial preservatives that inhibit the growth of bacteria or fungi (including molds), or antioxidants. Non-limiting examples of preservatives include potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, tocopherol (e.g., tocopherol acetate), calcium propionate, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, sulfites (sulfur dioxide, sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, etc.), tetrasodium EDTA and disodium EDTA. The aqueous surfactant composition may include preservatives of about 0.02% to about 4% by weight of the aqueous surfactant composition, alternatively about 0.1% to about 2%, alternatively about 0.2% to about 1%, alternatively about 0.3% to about 0.5%, preferably selected from the group consisting of potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, tocopherol and their mixtures. The aqueous surfactant composition may be substantially free of preservatives.

[0070] Additives

[0071] The aqueous surfactant composition may contain one or more optional adjunct ingredients selected from the group consisting of pH adjusters, builders, structurants or thickeners, clay soil release / anti-redeposition agents, polymeric soil release agents, polymeric dispersants, polymeric grease cleaners, enzymes, enzyme stabilization systems, bleaching compounds, bleaching agents, bleach activators, bleach catalysts, dye transfer inhibitors, chelating agents, suds suppressors, softeners, calcium salts, boric acid, dyes, colorants, fluorescent whitening agents, bluing agents, defoaming agents, bleaching agents, gums, binders, and combinations thereof.

[0072] The aqueous surfactant compositions described herein may contain from about 0.1% to about 5%, or from about 1% to about 4%, or from about 1% to about 3%, by weight of the composition, of one or more cleaning polymers. Suitable cleaning polymers include carboxymethylcellulose, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), poly(ethylene glycol), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(vinyl pyridine-N-oxide), poly(vinylimidazole), polycarboxylates such as polyacrylates, maleic acid / acrylic acid copolymers, and lauryl methacrylate / acrylic acid copolymers.

[0073] The aqueous surfactant composition may include one or more amphiphilic cleaning polymers, such as compounds having the following general structure: bis((C2H5O)(C2H4O)n)(CH3)-N + -C x H 2x -N + -(CH3)-bis((C2H5O)(C2H4O)n), wherein n=20 to 30, and x=3 to 8, or sulfated or sulfonated versions thereof.

[0074] The aqueous surfactant composition may comprise one or more alkoxylated polyalkyleneimines or one or more alkoxylated polyamines.

[0075] The aqueous surfactant composition may include amphiphilic alkoxylated grease cleaning polymers having balanced hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties so that they remove grease particles from fabrics and surfaces. Suitable amphiphilic alkoxylated grease cleaning polymers may include a core structure and a plurality of alkoxylate groups attached to the core structure. These may include alkoxylated polyalkyleneimines, such as polyalkyleneimines with polyethylene oxide inner blocks and polyoxypropylene outer blocks. Such compounds may include, but are not limited to, ethoxylated polyethyleneimines, ethoxylated hexamethylenediamines, and their sulfated forms. Polypropoxylated derivatives may also be included. Various amines and polyalkyleneimines may be alkoxylated to various degrees. A useful example is a 600 g / mol polyethyleneimine core, each NH of which is ethoxylated to 20 EO groups and is purchased from BASF.

[0076] The aqueous surfactant compositions described herein may contain alkoxylated polycarboxylates. Alkoxylated polycarboxylates such as those made from polyacrylates can be used herein to provide additional grease removal properties. Chemically, these materials contain polyacrylates having one ethoxy side chain for every 7-8 acrylate units. The side chains have the formula -(CH2CH2O) m (CH2) n CH3, wherein m is 2 to 3, and n is 6 to 12. Side chain esters are attached to the polyacrylate backbone to provide a comb-type polymer structure. The molecular weight can vary, but is typically in the range of about 2000 to about 50,000.

[0077] The aqueous surfactant compositions described herein may include an amphiphilic graft copolymer. Suitable amphiphilic graft copolymers include amphiphilic graft copolymers comprising: (i) a polyethylene glycol backbone; and (ii) and at least one pendant moiety selected from polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, and mixtures thereof. Commercially available examples of amphiphilic graft copolymers are supplied by BASF HP22. Suitable polymers include random graft copolymers, such as polyvinyl acetate grafted polyethylene oxide copolymers, which have a polyethylene oxide backbone and a plurality of polyvinyl acetate side chains. The molecular weight of the polyethylene oxide backbone may be about 6000, and the weight ratio of polyethylene oxide to polyvinyl acetate may be about 40 to about 60, and the polyethylene oxide backbone may have no more than 1 grafting point per 50 ethylene oxide units.

[0078] The aqueous surfactant composition of the present disclosure may include one or more carboxylate polymers, such as maleate / acrylate random copolymers or polyacrylate homopolymers. The carboxylate polymer may be a polyacrylate homopolymer having a molecular weight of 4,000Da to 9,000Da, or 6,000Da to 9,000Da.

[0079] The aqueous surfactant compositions of the present disclosure may comprise one or more soil release polymers having a structure defined by one of the following structures (I), (II) or (III):

[0080] (I)-[(OCHR 1 -CHR 2 ) a -O-OC-Ar-CO-] d

[0081] (II)-[(OCHR 3 -CHR 4 ) b -O-OC-sAr-CO-] e

[0082] (III)-[(OCHR 5 -CHR 6 ) c -OR 7 ] f

[0083] in:

[0084] a, b and c are 1 to 200;

[0085] d, e and f are 1 to 50;

[0086] Ar is 1,4-substituted phenylene;

[0087] sAr is 1,3-substituted phenylene substituted at position 5 with SO3Me;

[0088] Me is Li, K, Mg / 2, Ca / 2, Al / 3, ammonium, monoalkylammonium, dialkylammonium, trialkylammonium or tetraalkylammonium, wherein the alkyl group is C1-C 18 Alkyl or C2-C 10 Hydroxyalkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0089] R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , R 4 , R 5 and R 6 Independently selected from H or C1-C 18 n-alkyl or C1-C 18 isoalkyl; and

[0090] R 7 A straight or branched C1-C 18 Alkyl, or linear or branched C2-C 30alkenyl, or a cycloalkyl group having 5 to 9 carbon atoms, or a C8-C 30 Aryl, or C6-C 30 Arylalkyl.

[0091] Suitable soil release polymers include polyester soil release polymers such as Repel-o-tex polymers, including those supplied by Rhodia SF, SF-2 and SRP6. Other suitable soil release polymers include Polymers, including those supplied by Clariant SRA100, SRA300, SRN100, SRN170, SRN240, SRN300 and SRN325. Other suitable soil release polymers are Polymers, such as those provided by Sasol SL.

[0092] The aqueous surfactant composition of the present disclosure may include one or more cellulose polymers. Suitable cellulose polymers include alkyl cellulose, alkyl alkoxy alkyl cellulose, carboxyalkyl cellulose, alkyl carboxyalkyl cellulose. Cellulose polymers may be selected from carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl carboxymethyl cellulose and mixtures thereof. Carboxymethyl cellulose may have a carboxymethyl degree of substitution of about 0.5 to about 0.9 and a molecular weight of about 100,000Da to about 300,000Da.

[0093] Packaging and distribution

[0094] The aqueous surfactant compositions described herein can be packaged in any suitable container, including those constructed of paper, paperboard, plastic materials, and any suitable laminate, and the compositions can be dispensed in any number of suitable ways, such as sprays, e.g., pump sprays, trigger sprays, and the like.

[0095] The aqueous surfactant composition can be packaged in an at least partially transparent or translucent container or bottle. The container may include a transparent portion, such as a window. The transparent or translucent bottle-like piece may have a light transmittance greater than 25% at a wavelength of about 410nm to 800nm. Available bottle materials include, but are not limited to: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC); and polystyrene (PS).

[0096] The transparent portion of the bottle or container may have a transmittance in the visible portion of the spectrum (approximately 410nm-800nm) of more than about 25%, or more than about 30%, or more than about 40%, or more than about 50%. Alternatively, the absorbance of the bottle may be measured as less than about 0.6 or by having a transmittance of greater than about 25%, where the transmittance percentage is equal to: For purposes of this disclosure, a wavelength in the visible range is considered transparent / translucent as long as it has a transmittance greater than about 25%.

[0097] Process for preparing an aqueous surfactant composition

[0098] The present disclosure also relates to a method for preparing an aqueous surfactant composition, wherein the composition comprises an alkyl sulfate and a hydrophobic agent. The method for preparing the aqueous surfactant composition may include the following steps:

[0099] a. combining an alkyl sulfate; a pH adjusting agent, wherein the pH adjusting agent is an acid; a hydrophobic agent and optionally a solvent to form an alkyl sulfate premix;

[0100] b. separately combining water, optionally a pH adjuster and optionally a preservative to form an aqueous phase; and

[0101] c. mixing the alkyl sulfate premix with water to form an aqueous surfactant composition;

[0102] Wherein the aqueous surfactant composition has a pH of about 2.0 to 12.0.

[0103] Example

[0104] The following examples are provided to help illustrate the aqueous surfactant compositions described herein. The exemplified compositions are given for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limitations of the present invention, as many variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Unless otherwise indicated, all parts, percentages and ratios herein are by weight.

[0105] Table 1 .

[0106]

[0107] 1 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0108] 2 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0109] 3Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0110] 4 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0111] 5 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0112] 6 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0113] 7 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0114] Table 2 .

[0115]

[0116] 1 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0117] Table 3 .

[0118]

[0119] 4 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0120] Table 4 .

[0121]

[0122]

[0123] 5 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0124] Table 5 .

[0125]

[0126] 6 Available from Lebermuth (South Bend, IN).

[0127] Test Method

[0128] Hunter L.ab determination (CIE) b* value

[0129] Yellow color formation is measured using Hunter Lab. (CIE) method. Using HunterLab ColorFlex The b* value was determined using a spectrophotometer (HunterLab, 11491 Sunset Hills Road, Reston, Virginia 20190). The method used is described in detail in the "User's Manual for ColorFlex EZ Version 2.2".

[0130] HunterLab ColorFlex A spectrophotometer uses a xenon flash lamp to illuminate a sample. The light reflected by the sample is then separated into its component wavelengths by a dispersion grating. The relative intensities of the light at different wavelengths along the visible spectrum (400-700nm) are then analyzed to produce a numerical result that indicates the color of the sample.

[0131] Turbidity method

[0132] The turbidity meter is used to measure the turbidity of aqueous surfactant compositions. The instrument measures the turbidity of liquids in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). The method for measuring turbidity is described in detail in the following reference: Hach 2100Q and 2100Qis User Manual from Hach Company, 6th Edition, August 2021. If the sample is not homogeneous prior to analysis, invert the sample until it appears homogeneous and then pour into the analyte vial for measurement.

[0133] The measurement method determines the quantitative value of turbidity by evaluating the ratio of the main turbidity light scattering signal to the transmitted light scattering signal. This specific evaluation method provides a value between 0 and 1000 NTU, wherein the greater the NTU value, the more turbid the composition is. In the middle of each test sample, a water control group can be measured to ensure correct equipment operation. For example, water can have a turbidity of about 1.11 NTU, and isopropyl alcohol can have a turbidity of about 0.15 NTU. It is believed that the improvement of the emulsification of active ingredients, particularly hydrophobic active ingredients, produces a lower NTU value.

[0134] Temperature stability

[0135] Temperature stability is measured by filling a 24 ounce PET vial with the sample composition. The vial is sealed and heated at 5°C for 12 to 14 hours. The vial is then moved to 25°C for 10 to 12 hours, completing one low temperature cycle. This is repeated two more times for a total of three low temperature cycles. After the final incubation at 5°C (and before the vial is warmed to room temperature), the vial is observed for any visual signs of turbidity or phase separation. After the final incubation at 25°C, the turbidity and b* values ​​of the vial are evaluated using the following: turbidity and the Hunter Lab (CIE) method described above.

[0136] Particle size test method

[0137] Particle size was measured by light scattering data technique. Particle size was determined using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZSP (Malvern Panalytical, Malvern, UK). The software used for instrument control and data acquisition was Malvern Zetasizer software version 8.01.4906 (Malvern Panalytical). All samples were stored at 25°C unless otherwise specified.

[0138] exist The measurement is carried out in a polystyrene disposable cuvette (Cat. No. 759070D or equivalent). 1 mL of sample is added to the cuvette using a disposable pipette (VWR, Cat. No. 414004-004 or equivalent), swirled, and then discarded. Another 1 mL of sample is added to the cuvette using a disposable pipette. The lid is placed on the cuvette and all sides of the cuvette are wiped with lint-free lens paper. The cuvette is loaded into the instrument according to the specifications of the manufacturer to ensure that light enters the sample correctly during the measurement and the cover is closed.

[0139] Prepare the instrument according to the manufacturer's specifications. Perform particle size measurements via the software with the following settings:

[0140] 1) Under the "Measurement" section, select the "Manual" option. Then set the "Measurement Type" to "Size".

[0141] 2) Then select the "Sample" section. In the "Material" subsection: select "Material" as

[0142] set the SDS to 1.461; and set the Absorbance to 0.001.

[0143] In the Dispersant subsection: select Dispersant as Water; select Temperature

[0144] Set "Viscosity" to 25.0℃; set "Viscosity" at 0.8872cP; and set "RI" to 1.330. In the "General Options" section, select "Mark-Houwink Parameters", set "Parameters" to 0.428; and set "K Parameter (cm2 / s)" to 7.67e-05. In the "Temperature" section: set "Temperature" to 25.0℃; set "Equilibrium Time (Seconds)" to 120. In the "Cells" section: set "Cell Type" to

[0145] The selection is "Disposable Cuvette"; and the "DTS0012" option is selected.

[0146] 3) Then select the "Measurement" section. Select "173°" for "Detection Angle Measurement Angle".

[0147] Backscatter (NIBS default)"; select "Automatic" for "Measurement duration"; set "Number of runs" to 11; set "Run duration (seconds)" to 10; set "Number of measurements" to 3; set "Delay between measurements (seconds)" to

[0148] set to 0; "Append measurement number to sample name" is selected; and no

[0149] "Allow results containing only relevant data to be saved". In the Advanced section: Change

[0150] Set "Measure duration, extend most duration" to "No";

[0151] "Measurement Settings, Positioning Method" is set to "Seek Best Position"; and set the automatic decay selection to "Yes".

[0152] 4) Then select the "Data Processing" section and select the following options: Select "Analysis Model" as "General Purpose (Normal Resolution)". Set "Size Analysis Parameters" to

[0153] Set to: "Analysis Details"; set the Name to "Custom" and the Description to "Custom Analysis"; set the Lower Limit to 0.6 and

[0154] Set the "Display range" to 6000 for "Upper limit"; select "Normal" for "Multimodal - Analysis, Resolution"; set "Size class, Number of size classes" to 70; set "Lower size limit" to 0.4; set "Upper size limit" to 10,000;

[0155] Set the Lower Threshold to 0.05 and the Upper Threshold to 0.01.

[0156] In the Report subsection: Print Report is not selected, and in the Export subsection: Export results is not selected.

[0157] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

[0158] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present invention disclosed or claimed herein, or an admission that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more of the references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this invention shall govern.

[0159] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stable aqueous surfactant composition, comprising: a. 1% to 30% by weight of the composition of a surfactant system, the surfactant system consisting essentially of alkyl sulfates, preferably C6-C20 alkyl sulfates, more preferably sodium C6-C20 alkyl sulfates; b. 0.05% to 15% by weight of the composition of a hydrophobic agent, the hydrophobic agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of: essential oils, fragrances, components thereof and combinations thereof; and c. 70% to 90% water by weight of the composition; d. Optional ingredients selected from the group consisting of pH adjusters, calcium salts, boric acid, enzymes, dyes, colorants, preservatives, fluorescent whitening agents, bluing agents, defoaming agents, bleaching agents, thickeners, polymers, preferably anti-redeposition polymers, solvents, chelating agents, gums, binders, and combinations thereof; The ratio of hydrophobic active to alkyl sulfate is 1:.66 to 1:

20.

2. The stable aqueous surfactant composition of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a solvent selected from the group consisting of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, glycol ethers, isopropyl myristate, ethyl lactate, butyl lactate, butyl stearate, glycerin, sorbitol, and mixtures thereof.

3. A stable concentrated aqueous surfactant, comprising: a. greater than 30% to 75% by weight of the composition of a surfactant system, the surfactant system consisting essentially of alkyl sulfates, preferably C6-C20 alkyl sulfates, more preferably sodium C6-C20 alkyl sulfates; b. 5% to 40% by weight of the composition of a hydrophobic agent, the hydrophobic agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of: essential oils, fragrances, components thereof and combinations thereof; and c. 10% to 65% water by weight of the composition; d. wherein the ratio of hydrophobic active to alkyl sulfate is from 1:.66 to 1:

20.

4. The stable aqueous surfactant composition of claim 3, wherein the composition comprises a solvent selected from the group consisting of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, glycol ethers, isopropyl myristate, ethyl lactate, butyl lactate, butyl stearate, glycerin, sorbitol, and mixtures thereof.

5. The aqueous surfactant composition of claim 1, wherein the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, humic acid, acetic acid, monosodium citrate, sodium citrate, disodium citrate, trisodium citrate, trisodium citrate dihydrate, trisodium citrate pentahydrate, sodium acetate, and combinations thereof.

6. An aqueous surfactant composition according to claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the composition comprises a weight ratio of hydrophobic active to alkyl sulfate of from 1:1 to 1:10, preferably from 1:1 to 1:

5.

7. The composition of claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the composition has a turbidity of less than 20 NTU and a b* value of 0 to 5.

8. The composition of claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the composition has a pH of 2.0 to 12.

0.

9. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is packaged in a transparent or translucent container.

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