Cleaning agent for hard surfaces

Abstract

The present invention provides biosurfactants and uses thereof for, for example, effective removal of contaminants and / or fouling species (e.g., paints, molds, and algae) on porous surfaces, and / or enhanced cleaning of contaminants on non-porous surfaces.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 389,144, filed on July 14, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Graffiti is the unauthorized marking of a building, fence, bus, train, road sign, bridge or similar place or surface with paint, dye, permanent ink or any other substance. Removal of graffiti is difficult because of the wide variety of marking materials (many of which are inherently difficult to remove) and the types of surfaces to which it is applied. These surfaces include acrylic, aluminum, brick, ceramic, concrete, glass, metal, stainless steel, masonry, block, stone, aggregate board, asphalt surfaces, non-laminated wood, painted surfaces and some plastics. Porous surfaces (such as untreated wood, concrete, stone and brick) are particularly difficult to clean because the markings can penetrate deep into the surface pores.

[0004] Common methods of dealing with graffiti include removal through chemical treatment, laser removal, abrasive methods such as sandblasting, or repainting over the graffiti. Each method has disadvantages in terms of cost, labor and environmental impact.

[0005] Chemical graffiti removal traditionally involves applying a cleaning agent (usually containing a dilute solvent) to the surface to be cleaned; waiting for the cleaning agent to dissolve the graffiti, and optionally brushing or rubbing the cleaning agent onto the surface to improve cleaning; and high pressure washing with hot water. Cleaning compositions typically contain relatively water-insoluble solvents, as well as emulsifiers and / or surfactants for formulation. Many of these ingredients, in addition to exhibiting poor penetration into soiled porous surfaces, are also considered carcinogenic and / or polluting (e.g., surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium octyl sulfate, and solvents such as cyclohexanone).

[0006] Both cleaning agents and paint residues pose a threat to the environment as well as to the operators performing graffiti removal. For example, the heat of the water increases cleaning agent evaporation and fume formation, and the cleaning agent / hot water mixture often remains in the environment along with the removed paint. As a result, cleaning agent dilution is common but results in poor overall cleaning results. Furthermore, cleaning agents often must remain on the surface for a long time to be effective and are often highly specialized for this purpose and therefore expensive.

[0007] Using high-pressure water jets to remove graffiti can also cause severe damage to the surface being cleaned; this is especially true when hot water is combined with abrasive substances, creating a sandblasting effect. Such substances are often used to remove particularly difficult graffiti. Furthermore, the high-pressure jet applied to the contaminated surface may even push the graffiti further into the surface pores, defeating its purpose. In addition, conventional graffiti removal equipment is large, complex, heavy, and consumes large amounts of cleaning agents, water, and energy for heating and pressurization.

[0008] Repainting or recoating a surface is probably the least effective and least economical way to repair graffiti. It requires the use of a paint that will cover and conceal the graffiti without leaving it visible. Several coats of paint are usually required and leave a finish different from the original finish of the surface.

[0009] Problems faced during graffiti removal from surfaces, especially porous surfaces, are an ever-present challenge for businesses and government agencies seeking to repair defaced and damaged property; however, these issues are not limited to graffiti. For example, cleaning other hard porous surfaces such as wood, concrete, siding or plaster that are contaminated with algae or mold often requires similar high-pressure, solvent-based treatments. In addition, contamination of porous stone surfaces in homes and kitchens with pathogens and food particles is also a significant safety concern.

[0010] Seals and coatings can be used to plug surface pores and prevent the ingress of contaminants and fluids. However, in situations where seals or coatings are not practical or fail, methods for cleaning these porous surfaces are needed to restore the underlying surface.

[0011] More and more consumers are looking for cleaning products that can remove pollutants and dirt from surfaces, especially porous surfaces, while reducing environmental impact. These safer, more sustainable products are still expected to provide comparable performance to traditional products. Due to the limited natural or sustainable materials that meet these needs, formulating safe and environmentally friendly cleaning compositions remains a challenge. Therefore, there is a need for improved cleaning compositions that can effectively penetrate porous surfaces and reduce the overall reliance on synthetic ingredients. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention provides microbial derived products and methods of using the same to maintain and / or improve the cleanliness and appearance of porous and non-porous surfaces by, for example, effectively removing contaminants from such surfaces. Such contaminants may include, but are not limited to, paint, ink, dye, algae, mold, food particles, fats, oils, grease, dirt, scale, and / or biofilm. In certain specific embodiments, the compositions and methods can be used to remove graffiti from surfaces, including porous surfaces. In other specific embodiments, the compositions and methods can be used to remove mold and algae from surfaces.

[0013] Advantageously, the present invention utilizes biodegradable ingredients that can be used alone and / or in combination with conventional cleaning chemicals. In certain embodiments, the present invention can enhance the effectiveness of conventional cleaning compositions when used in combination with them.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a cleaning composition comprising one or more glycolipid biosurfactants. In some embodiments, the cleaning composition further comprises one or more surfactants, one or more solvents, one or more alkaline soaps, one or more acids, one or more bleaches and / or one or more disinfectants in combination with the glycolipid.

[0015] The surfactant can be any nonionic, cationic, anionic or zwitterionic surfactant, or a mixture of two or more of these types. Preferably, the surfactant is a non-biological surfactant. In addition, the solvent can be any known solvent compatible with the glycolipid and / or surfactant, for example, glycol ethers, dibasic esters, ketones, terpenes and / or water.

[0016] Glycolipid biosurfactants according to the present invention include, for example, sophorolipids, mannosylerythritol lipids, rhamnolipids, trehalolipids and / or cellobiose lipids. Glycolipids can be used in a form in which they are naturally produced by microorganisms, and / or they can be chemically treated to, for example, change the chemical structure and / or function of the molecule. In some embodiments, a mixture of glycolipids and / or glycolipid derivatives can be used, for example, depending on the surface or pollutant to be cleaned.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the glycolipid is a sophorolipid (SLP), including any form, isoform or isomer thereof, such as acidic (linear) SLP and lactone SLP. Also included are monoacetylated SLP, diacetylated SLP, esterified SLP, etherified SLP, SLP with different hydrophobic chain lengths, SLP with amino acid complexes attached, and other SLPs, including SLPs specifically exemplified and / or not specifically exemplified in the present disclosure.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the glycolipid is a mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL), including any form, isoform or isomer thereof, such as triacylated, diacylated, monoacylated, triacetylated, diacetylated, monoacetylated and non-acetylated MEL. According to the present invention, other mannosyl substances / MEL-like substances with similar structures and similar properties can also be used, such as mannosyl-mannitol lipid (MML), mannosyl-arabinitol lipid (MAL) and / or mannosyl-ribitol lipid (MRL).

[0019] In certain embodiments, glycolipids and glycolipid mixtures according to the present invention can be used as active ingredients in environmentally friendly cleaning compositions for porous surfaces as well as for enhanced cleaning of non-porous surfaces. In certain embodiments, glycolipids and glycolipid mixtures are used as enhancers for traditional cleaning compounds.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the cleaning compositions according to the present invention are effective due to amphiphile-mediated penetration of the pores of the contaminated surface. For example, in some embodiments, the SLP will form micelles, wherein the size of the micelles is less than about 100 μm, less than about 10 μm, less than about 1 μm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 50 nm, less than about 25 nm, less than about 15 nm or less than about 10 nm, less than about 5 nm or less than about 2 nm. The small size and amphiphilic nature of the micelles allow for better penetration into the pores, thereby allowing for greater contact with the contaminants therein. In some embodiments, glycolipids are used as carriers to facilitate the transport of solvents or other cleaning chemicals into the pores of the contaminated surface.

[0021] Optionally, the conditioning composition may also contain one or more other components, including, for example, essential oils, plant extracts, cross-linking agents, chelating agents, fatty acids, alcohols, pH adjusters, reducing agents, linkers, buffers, enzymes, dyes, colorants, fragrances, preservatives, emulsifiers, foaming agents, polymers, thickeners and / or viscosity modifiers.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention also provides a method for cleaning a porous surface and / or for improving the cleaning of a non-porous surface by applying the cleaning composition of the present invention to the surface.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the surface is a porous material, wherein the contaminant is present on the surface of the material and / or in the pores of the material. In some embodiments, the method is particularly useful for removing contaminants that are difficult to remove from porous surfaces, including, for example, graffiti, paint, permanent ink, dyes, and mold and algae. In addition, the method can be used to increase the efficiency of removing these and other contaminants from non-porous surfaces.

[0024] The cleaning composition can be applied to the surface by spraying using, for example, a spray bottle or a pressurized spray device. The cleaning composition can also be applied using a cloth or a brush, wherein the composition is wiped, applied or brushed onto the surface. In addition, the cleaning composition can be applied to the surface by dipping, soaking or immersing the surface into a container containing the cleaning composition.

[0025] In one embodiment, the surface is soaked with the cleaning composition thereon for a sufficient time to remove contaminants. For example, soaking can be carried out for as long as 5 minutes to 24 hours or more as desired.

[0026] In one embodiment, the method also includes the step of removing the cleaning composition and pollutants from the surface. This can be achieved by, for example, rinsing or spraying water on the surface, and / or wiping or wiping the surface with a cloth until the cleaning composition and pollutants have been removed from the surface. Flushing or spraying with water can be carried out before and / or after wiping or wiping the surface with a cloth. In some embodiments, spraying is carried out under high pressure and / or high temperature.

[0027] In another embodiment, after applying the cleaning composition, mechanical methods can be used to remove contaminants and / or the cleaning composition from the surface. For example, a sandblaster, agitator, drill, hammer, sandpaper, or scraper can be used to remove contaminants from surfaces that are particularly difficult to remove due to, for example, the amount of contaminants or the type of contaminants.

[0028] Advantageously, the compositions and methods of the present invention improve the safety and environmental impact of cleaning difficult-to-remove contaminants in, for example, public places, homes, businesses, healthcare and industrial environments and in the presence of humans, plants and animals. In addition, the compositions and methods utilize biodegradable and toxicologically safe ingredients, thereby reducing the amount of harsh cleaning chemicals required to achieve the desired cleaning level. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present invention provides microbially derived products and methods of using the same to maintain and / or improve the cleanliness and appearance of porous and non-porous surfaces by, for example, effectively removing contaminants from such surfaces.

[0030] Selected Definitions

[0031] As used herein, a "green" compound or material refers to at least 95% derived from natural, biological and / or renewable resources (e.g., plants, animals, minerals and / or microorganisms), and in addition, the compound or material is biodegradable. In addition, in some embodiments, the "green" compound or material is minimally toxic to humans, with LD50>5000 mg / kg. The "green" product preferably does not contain any of the following: non-plant-based ethoxylated surfactants, linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), ether sulfate surfactants, or nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPE). In certain preferred embodiments, the glycolipid molecules described herein (including derived glycolipid molecules) are "green" compounds with minimal toxicity to users.

[0032] As used herein, "biofilm" is a complex aggregate of microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, yeast, or fungi) in which cells adhere to each other and / or to surfaces using an extracellular matrix. Cells in a biofilm are physiologically distinct from planktonic cells of the same organism, which are individual cells that can float or swim in a liquid medium.

[0033] As used herein, "contaminant" refers to any substance that causes another substance or object to become dirty or impure. Contaminants can be living or non-living, and can be inorganic or organic substances or sediments. In addition, contaminants can include paints, inks, and dyes; hydrocarbons, such as petroleum or asphaltene; fats, oils, and greases (FOGs), such as cooking grease, vegetable oils, and lard; lipids; waxes, such as paraffin; resins; microorganisms, such as bacteria, biofilms, viruses, fungi, molds, mildew, protozoa, parasites, or other infectious microorganisms; stains; or any other substance (such as dirt, dust, scale, sludge, dirt, slag, grime, scum, plaque, accumulation, or residue), but is not limited to this.

[0034] As used herein, "fouling" refers to the accumulation or deposition of contaminants, e.g., on the surface of equipment, in a manner that compromises the structural and / or functional integrity of the equipment. Fouling can lead to blockage, clogging, deterioration, corrosion, and other problems associated therewith, and can occur on both metallic and non-metallic materials and / or surfaces. Fouling that occurs due to living organisms (e.g., biofilms) is referred to as "biofouling."

[0035] As used herein, "cleaning" used in the context of contamination or fouling means removing or reducing contaminants from a material and / or surface.

[0036] As used herein, "disinfection" means controlling or substantially controlling harmful microorganisms within 10 minutes or less, preferably 5 minutes or less, more preferably 2 minutes or less after the composition comes into contact with the harmful microorganisms (ie, exposure time).

[0037] As used herein, "control" in the context of microorganisms means killing the microorganisms, immobilizing the microorganisms, destroying the microorganisms, removing the microorganisms, reducing the microorganism population, and / or otherwise rendering the microorganisms unable to reproduce and / or cause substantial harm or contamination.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, harmful microorganisms are "substantially controlled" meaning that at least 90%, preferably at least 95% or more preferably at least 99% of the microbial population is controlled in a specified area.

[0039] In certain preferred embodiments, 100% control of harmful microorganisms means that the surface and / or material has been "disinfected."

[0040] As used herein, "harmful" or "pathogenic" microorganisms refer to any unicellular or acellular organism that can cause infection, disease, or other forms of harm to another organism. As used herein, pathogenic microorganisms are infectious pathogens and can include, for example, bacteria, cyanobacteria, biofilms, viruses, virions, viroids, fungi, molds, mildew, protozoa, prions, and algae. In certain embodiments, harmful microorganisms can include multicellular organisms, for example, certain parasites, worms, nematodes, and / or lichens.

[0041] As used herein, "preventing" a condition or event means avoiding, delaying, forestalling, or minimizing the occurrence of specific signs or symptoms of a condition or event. Prevention can be absolute or complete, but need not be, meaning that the condition or event may still develop at a later time. Prevention can include reducing the severity of a condition or event, and / or inhibiting the development of a condition or event into a more serious condition or event.

[0042] As used herein, "surfactant" refers to a substance or compound that reduces surface tension when dissolved in water or an aqueous solution, or a substance or compound that reduces interfacial tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. Thus, the term "surfactant" includes cationic, anionic, nonionic, zwitterionic, amphoteric agents and / or combinations thereof. "Biosurfactant" refers to a surfactant produced by living cells and / or using natural sources.

[0043] As used herein, "base surfactant" refers to a surfactant or amphiphilic molecule that exhibits a strong tendency to adsorb at an interface in a relatively ordered manner oriented perpendicular to the interface.

[0044] As used herein, the term "linker" (meaning to connect or bind together, as in mixed water and oil) refers to a relatively weak amphiphile that exhibits a significant ability to adsorb at an oil-water interface (either from the water phase, hence the term "hydrophilic linker," or from the oil phase, hence the term "hydrophobic linker") only when the interface already carries an adsorbed layer of a base surfactant or base surfactant mixture. Adsorption of the linker at the oil-water interface is believed to affect the spacing and / or order of adsorbed ordinary surfactants in a manner that is highly favorable for producing very low oil-water interfacial tension, thereby increasing the solubility of the oil and / or removing the oil from solid materials and / or surfaces.

[0045] As used herein, an "isolated" or "purified" nucleic acid molecule, polynucleotide, polypeptide, protein, or organic compound (e.g., small molecule) is substantially free of other compounds (e.g., cellular material) with which it is associated in nature. A purified or isolated polynucleotide (ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)) is free of genes or sequences that flank it in its naturally occurring state. A purified or isolated polypeptide is free of other molecules or amino acids that flank it in its naturally occurring state. An "isolated" strain refers to a strain that is removed from the environment in which it occurs in nature. Thus, an isolated strain may exist, for example, as a biologically pure culture or spores (or other forms of a strain).

[0046] In some embodiments, the purified compound is at least 60wt% of the target compound. Preferably, the preparation is at least 75wt% of the target compound, more preferably at least 90wt%, most preferably at least 99wt%. For example, the purified compound is at least 90wt%, 91wt%, 92wt%, 93wt%, 94wt%, 95wt%, 98wt%, 99wt% or 100wt% (w / w) of the desired compound. Purity can be measured by any appropriate standard method, for example, analyzed by column chromatography, thin layer chromatography or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

[0047] The scope provided herein should be understood as a shorthand for all values ​​in the range. For example, the scope of 1 to 20 should be understood to include any number, combination of numbers or subranges in the group consisting of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20, and all intermediate decimal values ​​between the above-mentioned integers, such as 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8 and 1.9. About subranges, "nested subranges" extending from either end of the scope are particularly considered. For example, the nested subranges of the example range of 1 to 50 can include 1 to 10, 1 to 20, 1 to 30 and 1 to 40 in one direction, or 50 to 40, 50 to 30, 50 to 20 and 50 to 10 in another direction.

[0048] As used herein, "decrease" refers to a negative change and "increase" refers to a positive change, wherein the change is at least 0.001%, 0.01%, 0.1%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 99% or 100%, including all values ​​in between.

[0049] The transitional term "comprising," which is synonymous with "including" or "containing," is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional unrecited elements or method steps. In contrast, the transitional phrase "consisting of" excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase "consisting essentially of" limits the scope of the claim to the specified materials or steps "and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention." Use of the term "comprising" contemplates other embodiments of "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of" the components.

[0050] Unless expressly stated or obvious from the context, the term "or" as used herein should be construed as inclusive. Unless expressly stated or obvious from the context, the terms "a", "an" and "the" as used herein should be construed as singular or plural.

[0051] Unless otherwise specified or obvious from the context, the term "about" as used herein should be understood to mean within the normal tolerance range in the art, such as within 2 standard deviations of the mean. "About" can be understood to be within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05% or 0.01% of the specified value.

[0052] The narration of a list of chemical groups in any definition of a variable herein includes defining the variable as any single group or combination of listed groups. The narration of an embodiment for a variable or aspect herein includes the embodiment as any single embodiment or in combination with any other embodiment or part thereof. All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] Cleaning composition

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a cleaning composition comprising one or more glycolipid biosurfactants. In some embodiments, the cleaning composition further comprises one or more additional surfactants, one or more solvents, one or more alkaline soaps, one or more acids, one or more bleaches and / or one or more disinfectants in combination with the glycolipid.

[0055] Biosurfactants are amphiphilic molecules consisting of a hydrophobic domain (e.g., fatty acid) and a hydrophilic domain (e.g., sugar). Due to their amphiphilic nature, biosurfactants can separate at interfaces between different fluid phases (e.g., oil / water or water / air interfaces). Unlike synthetic surfactants, biosurfactants can be effective in hot or cold water and at either extreme of the pH scale. In addition, biosurfactants are biodegradable and nontoxic.

[0056] Glycolipid biosurfactants according to the present invention include, for example, sophorolipids, mannosylerythritol lipids, rhamnolipids, trehalose lipids and / or cellobiose lipids. Glycolipids can be used in a form in which they are naturally produced by microorganisms, and / or they can be separated and further chemically treated, for example to change the chemical structure and / or function of the molecule. In some embodiments, a mixture of glycolipids and / or glycolipid derivatives can be used, for example, depending on the surface or pollutant to be cleaned.

[0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, sophorolipids (SLP) are specific glycolipids of interest. Sophorolipids are glycolipid biosurfactants produced by various yeasts of, for example, Starmerella clades. SLP is composed of the disaccharide sophorose connected to long-chain hydroxy fatty acids. They may include partially acetylated 2-O-β-D-pyranose glucopyranose units, which are connected to 17-L-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid or 17-L-hydroxy-Δ9-octadecenoic acid via β-glycosidic bonds. Hydroxy fatty acids may have, for example, 11 to 20 carbon atoms, and may include one or more unsaturated bonds. In addition, the sophorose residues may be acetylated at the 6- and / or 6'-positions. The fatty acid carboxyl group can be free (acidic or linear form) or internally esterified at the 4"-position (lactone form). In most cases, fermentation of SLPs will produce a mixture of hydrophobic (water-insoluble) SLPs, including, for example, lactone SLPs, monoacetylated linear SLPs, and diacetylated linear SLPs, and hydrophilic (water-soluble) SLPs, including, for example, non-acetylated linear SLPs.

[0058] As used herein, the term "sophorolipid", "sophorolipid molecule", "SLP" or "SLP molecule" includes all forms of SLP molecules and isomers thereof, including, for example, acidic (linear) SLP and lactone SLP. Also included are monoacetylated SLP, diacetylated SLP, esterified SLP, SLP with different hydrophobic chain lengths, SLP with attached fatty acid-amino acid complexes, and other SLPs, including those described and / or not described in the present disclosure.

[0059] In some embodiments, the SLP molecule can be represented by the general formula (1) and / or the general formula (2), including 30 or more fatty acid chains with different lengths (R 3 ) and in some cases in R 1 and / or R 2 Structural homologues that are acetylated or protonated.

[0060]

[0061] In the general formula (1) or (2), R 0 It can be a hydrogen atom or a methyl group.1 and R 2 are each independently a hydrogen atom or an acetyl group. 3 It is a saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon chain, or an unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon chain having at least one double bond, and may have one or more substituents.

[0062] Non-limiting examples of substituents include halogen atoms, hydroxyl groups, lower (C1-6) alkyl groups, halogenated lower (C1-6) alkyl groups, hydroxy lower (C1-6) alkyl groups, halogenated lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, and other substituents, such as those described in the present disclosure. 3 It may have, for example, 11 to 20 carbon atoms.

[0063] Fermentation of yeast cells in a culture matrix including sugars and / or lipids and fatty acids with different carbon chain lengths can be used to produce a variety of SLPs. The yeast Bombus stamina Stamosaccharomyces (Candida) is one of the most widely recognized SLP producers. Typically, yeast produces lactone and linear SLPs during fermentation, wherein about 60-70% of the SLPs contain the lactone form and the remainder contain the lactone form.

[0064] In some embodiments, the ratio of linear SLP to lactone SLP in the composition is the ratio obtained from a standard fermentation process. In some embodiments, the ratio is adjusted. For example, the percentage ratio of linear to lactone SLP can be 1:99 to 99:1, 10:90 to 90:10, 20:80 to 80:20, 30:70 to 70:30, 40:60 to 60:40, or 50:50.

[0065] In certain embodiments, mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL) is a glycolipid of interest.MEL comprises 4-OBD-mannopyranosyl-mesoerythritol or 1-OBD-mannopyranosyl-mesoerythritol as a hydrophilic part, and fatty acid groups and / or acetyl groups as a hydrophobic part.One or two hydroxyls (usually at C4 and / or C6 of mannose residues) can be acetylated.In addition, there can be one to three chain lengths of 8 to 12 carbon or more esterified fatty acids.

[0066] MEL and MEL-like substances (e.g., mannosyl substances) are mainly produced by Saccharomyces (e.g., Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and Ustilago (e.g., Ustilago maydis), and there are significant differences between the MEL structures produced by each species. Meyer yeast guillemot can also produce certain mannosyl substances with similar properties to MEL.

[0067] MEL is non-toxic and stable over a wide range of temperature and pH. In addition, MEL can be used without any additional preservatives.

[0068] MEL can be produced in more than 93 different combinations, divided into 5 main categories: MEL A, MEL B, MEL D, triacetylated MEL A and triacetylated MEL B / C. These molecules can be modified by synthetic or natural means. For example, MEL can contain chains of different carbon lengths or different numbers of acetyl and / or fatty acid groups.

[0069] The MEL molecule and / or its modified form according to the present invention may include, for example, triacylated, diacylated, monoacylated, triacetylated, diacetylated, monoacetylated and non-acetylated MEL, and stereoisomers and / or constitutional isomers thereof.

[0070] According to the present invention, other mannosyl substances / MEL-like substances with similar structures and similar properties, such as mannosyl-mannitol lipids (MML), mannosyl-arabinitol lipids (MAL) and / or mannosyl-ribitol lipids (MRL) can also be used.

[0071] In certain embodiments, a mixture of SLP and MEL is used in the cleaning composition, wherein the ratio of SLP to MEL is 1:99 to 99:1, 10:90 to 90:10, 20:80 to 80:20, 30:70 to 70:30, 40:60 to 60:40, or 50:50.

[0072] In certain embodiments, glycolipids and glycolipid mixtures according to the present invention can be used as active ingredients in environmentally friendly cleaning compositions for porous surfaces as well as for enhanced cleaning of non-porous surfaces. In certain embodiments, glycolipids and glycolipid mixtures are used as enhancers for traditional cleaning compounds.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the cleaning compositions according to the present invention are effective due to the amphiphilic mediated penetration of the pores of the contaminated surface. For example, in some embodiments, the SLP will form micelles, wherein the size of the micelles is less than about 100 μm, less than about 10 μm, less than about 1 μm, less than about 100 nm, less than about 50 nm, less than about 25 nm, less than about 15 nm or less than about 10 nm, less than about 5 nm or less than about 2 nm. The small size and amphiphilic nature of the micelles allow for enhanced penetration into the pores, thereby allowing greater contact with the contaminants therein. In some embodiments, glycolipids are used as carriers that facilitate the transport of solvents or other cleaning chemicals to the pores of the contaminated surface.

[0074] The amount of glycolipid in the composition can range from about, for example, 1 ppm to 25 wt%, from 5 ppm to 20 wt%, from 10 ppm to 15 wt%, from 25 ppm to 10 wt%, from 50 ppm to 8 wt%, or from 100 ppm to 5 wt%.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a glycolipid in combination with one or more chemical surfactants. The surfactant can be any nonionic, cationic, anionic or zwitterionic surfactant, or a mixture of two or more of these types. A surfactant is a surfactant having two functional groups, i.e. a hydrophilic (water soluble) or polar group and a hydrophobic (oil soluble) or non-polar group. The hydrophobic group is typically a long hydrocarbon chain (C8-C18), which may or may not have branches, while the hydrophilic group is formed by parts such as carboxylates, sulfates, sulfonates (anions), alcohols, polyoxyethylene chains (nonionics) and quaternary ammonium salts (cations).

[0076] Surfactants according to the compositions and methods of the present invention include, but are not limited to, ammonium dodecyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate (also known as SDS, sodium dodecyl sulfate), alkyl ether sulfates, sodium laureth sulfate (also known as sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)), sodium myreth sulfate; docusate, sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorobutane sulfonate, linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAB), alkyl aryl ether phosphates, alkyl ether phosphates; carboxylates, alkyl carboxylates (soaps), sodium stearate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate , carboxylic acid-based fluorinated surfactants, perfluorononanoate, perfluorooctanoate; cationic surfactants, pH-dependent primary, secondary or tertiary amines, octenidine dihydrochloride, permanently charged quaternary ammonium cations, alkyl trimethylammonium salts, cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) (also known as cetyl trimethylammonium bromide), cetyl trimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), cetyl pyridinium chloride (CPC), benzalkonium chloride (BAC), benzethonium chloride (BZT), 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane, dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium chloride, hexadecane trimethylammonium bromide, dioctadecyl dimethylammonium bromide (DODAB); zwitterionic (amphoteric) surfactants, sulfobetaine CHAPS (3-[(3-cholamidopropyl) dimethylammonium]-1-propanesulfonate), cocamidopropyl hydroxysulfobetaine, betaine, cocamidopropyl betaine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin; nonionic surfactants, ethoxylates, long-chain alcohols, fatty alcohols, hexadecanol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ether (Brij): CH3–( CH2)10–16–(O-C2H4)1–25–OH (octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, pentylethylene glycol monododecyl ether), polyoxypropylene glycol alkyl ether: CH3–(CH2)10–16–(O-C3H6)1–25–OH, glucoside alkyl ether: CH3–(CH2)10–16–(O-glucoside)1–3–OH (decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, octyl glucoside), polyoxyethylene glycol octylphenol ether: C8H17–(C6H4)–(O-C2H4)1–25–OH (Triton X-100), polyoxyethylene glycol alkylphenol ether: C9H19-(C6H4)-(O-C2H4)1-25-OH (nonoxynol-9), glyceryl alkyl esters (glyceryl laurate), polyoxyethylene glycol sorbitan alkyl esters (polysorbates), sorbitan alkyl esters (Span), cocamide MEA, cocamide DEA, dodecyldimethylamine oxide (also known as lauramine oxide), copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol (poloxamers), and polyethoxylated animal fat amine (POEA).

[0077] Anionic surfactants contain anionic functional groups in their head, such as sulfates, sulfonates, phosphates, and carboxylates. The main alkyl sulfates include ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate (also known as SDS, sodium dodecyl sulfate) and the related alkyl ether sulfates, sodium laureth sulfate (also known as sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)) and sodium myreth sulfate. Carboxylates are the most common surfactants and include alkyl carboxylates (soaps), such as sodium stearate.

[0078] Surfactants with cationic head groups include: pH-dependent primary, secondary or tertiary amines; octenidine dihydrochloride; permanently charged quaternary ammonium cations, such as alkyl trimethylammonium salts: cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) (also known as hexadecyl trimethylammonium bromide), cetyl trimethylammonium chloride (CTAC); cetyl pyridinium chloride (CPC); benzalkonium chloride (BAC); benzethonium chloride (BZT); 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane; dimethyldioctadecyl ammonium chloride; cetrimonium bromide; and dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide (DODAB).

[0079] Zwitterionic (amphoteric) surfactants have a cationic and anionic center attached to the same molecule. The cationic portion is based on primary amines, secondary amines, tertiary amines or quaternary ammonium cations. The anionic portion can be more varied, including, for example, sulfonates. Zwitterionic surfactants typically have a phosphate anion with an amine or ammonium, such as found in biologically derived phospholipids (phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin).

[0080] Surfactants with an uncharged hydrophilic portion (eg ethoxylates) are nonionic.Many long chain alcohols exhibit some surfactant properties.

[0081] The content of the surfactant in the composition may range, for example, from 0 to 25 wt%, from 0.5 to 20 wt%, from 1 to 15 wt%, from 1.5 to 10 wt%, or from 2 to 5 wt%. In certain preferred embodiments, the content is from 0 to 5 wt%.

[0082] In certain specific embodiments, the surfactant includes lauramine oxide.

[0083] In some embodiments, the cleaning composition further comprises one or more solvents. The solvent can be any known solvent that is compatible with the glycolipid and / or surfactant, including water.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the solvent is a glycol ether. Glycol ethers as used herein are defined by the formula: R—(OCH2CH2) n —OR'

[0085] Wherein: n = 1, 2 or 3;

[0086] R = alkyl C7 or less, or phenyl or alkyl-substituted phenyl;

[0087] R'=H or alkyl C7 or less, or

[0088] OR' consists of carboxylate, sulfate, phosphate, nitrate or sulfonate.

[0089] Examples of glycol ethers include, for example, monobutyl glycol, tributyl glycol, tripropylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol n-butyl ether, diethylene glycol n-butyl ether, triethylene glycol n-butyl ether, propylene glycol n-butyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-butyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-butyl ether, ethylene glycol n-pentyl ether, diethylene glycol n-pentyl ether, triethylene glycol n-pentyl ether, propylene glycol n-pentyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-pentyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-pentyl ether, ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, diethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, triethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, propylene glycol n-hexyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-hexyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-hexyl ether, ethylene glycol phenyl ether, diethylene glycol phenyl ether, triethylene glycol phenyl ether, propylene glycol phenyl ether, dipropylene glycol phenyl ether, tripropylene glycol phenyl ether, ethylene glycol benzyl ether Benzyl ether, diethylene glycol benzyl ether, triethylene glycol benzyl ether, propylene glycol benzyl ether, dipropylene glycol benzyl ether, tripropylene glycol benzyl ether, ethylene glycol isobutyl ether, diethylene glycol isobutyl ether, triethylene glycol isobutyl ether, propylene glycol isobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol isobutyl ether, tripropylene glycol isobutyl ether, ethylene glycol isopentyl ether, diethylene glycol isopentyl ether, triethylene glycol isopentyl ether, propylene glycol isopentyl ether propylene glycol isohexyl ether, dipropylene glycol isohexyl ether, tripropylene glycol isohexyl ether, ethylene glycol isohexyl ether, diethylene glycol isohexyl ether, triethylene glycol isohexyl ether, propylene glycol isohexyl ether, dipropylene glycol isohexyl ether, tripropylene glycol isohexyl ether, ethylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether, propylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether , tripropylene glycol n-butyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, propylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-pentyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, propylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-hexyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, propylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol phenyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol benzyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol benzyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol benzyl methyl ether, propylene glycol benzyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol benzyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol Benzyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, propylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol isobutyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, propylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol isopentyl methyl ether, ethylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, diethylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, triethylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, propylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol isohexyl methyl ether, propylene glycol n-propyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-propyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-propyl ether, propylene glycol isopropyl ether, dipropylene glycol isopropyl ether, tripropylene glycol isopropyl ether,Propylene glycol n-propyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol n-propyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol n-propyl methyl ether, propylene glycol isopropyl methyl ether, dipropylene glycol isopropyl methyl ether, tripropylene glycol isopropyl methyl ether and mixtures thereof.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the solvent is a dibasic ester. The term "dibasic ester" as used herein refers to a compound having the general formula R'—OOC—Y—COO—R", wherein Y, R' and R" represent any organic compound (e.g., an alkyl, aryl or silyl group), including compounds with heteroatom-containing substituent groups. In certain embodiments, Y is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon, and R' and R" are alkyl or aryl groups. Non-limiting examples of dibasic esters according to the present invention include dialkyl adipates, dialkyl succinates, dialkyl azelates and dialkyl glutarates.

[0091] In certain embodiments, the solvent is a ketone. The term "ketone" as used herein refers to a compound having the general formula R'-CO-R", wherein R' and R" are alkyl or aryl groups and may be the same or different from each other. Non-limiting examples of ketones according to the present invention include acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, mesityl oxide, and isophorone.

[0092] In certain embodiments, the solvent is a ketal. As used herein, the term "ketal" refers to a compound having the general formula R'2C(OR")2, wherein R' and R" are alkyl or aryl groups. Non-limiting examples of ketals according to the present invention include acetone peroxide, methyl ethyl ketone peroxide, and solketal.

[0093] In certain embodiments, the solvent may include one or more terpenes. As used herein, the term "terpene" refers to a class of compounds derived from isoprene (whose molecular formula is C5H8). The basic molecular formula of terpenes includes (C5H8) n , where n is the number of linked isoprene units. In some embodiments, the terpenes are derived from plants, such as citrus plants or pine trees. Terpenes can include, but are not limited to, DL-limonene, orange terpenes, lemon terpenes, grapefruit terpenes, orange oil, lemon oil, other citrus terpenes, other citrus oils, geraniol, terpineol, dipentene, myrcene, linalool, cymene, terpenoids, sesquiterpenes, and pinene.

[0094] The solvent of the present invention can be used alone or in a mixture of more than one type. In certain embodiments, the total concentration of each solvent in the cleaning composition is, for example, about 1 to 99 wt%, 2 to 95 wt%, 3 to 85 wt%, 4 to 75 wt%, 5 to 65 wt%, 6 to 55 wt%, 7 to 45 wt%, 8 to 35 wt%, 9 to 25 wt%, 10 to 15 wt%, 1 to 10 wt%, 2 to 8 wt% or 3 to 7 wt%.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the cleaning composition comprises one or more alkaline soaps, one or more acids, one or more bleaching agents and / or one or more disinfectants in combination with glycolipids, surfactants and / or solvents. Each of these additional ingredients can be included in the composition at a concentration, for example, 0 to 99 wt%, 0.1 to 95 wt%, 0.5 to 85 wt%, 0.75 to 75 wt%, 1 to 65 wt%, 5 to 55 wt%, 7 to 45 wt%, 8 to 35 wt%, 9 to 25 wt%, 10 to 15 wt%, 1 to 10 wt%, 2 to 8 wt% or 3 to 7 wt%.

[0096] Exemplary alkaline soaps according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and sodium and / or potassium fatty acid salts (eg, potassium cocoate).

[0097] Exemplary acids according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, organic acids such as acetic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, butyric acid, sorbic acid, benzoic acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, propionic acid, ascorbic acid, glyoxylic acid, malonic acid, pyruvic acid, oxalic acid, uric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid and / or the like; and inorganic acids such as sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, boric acid and the like.

[0098] Exemplary bleaching agents of the present invention include, but are not limited to, sodium hypochlorite, chlorine, calcium hypochlorite, and hydrogen peroxide. In certain embodiments, the bleaching agent may also be used as a disinfectant or antimicrobial agent.

[0099] Exemplary disinfectants of the present invention include, but are not limited to, thymol, citric acid, lactic acid, amine oxides (e.g., LDAO, DDA, or myristylamine oxide), phenols, quaternary ammonium compounds (e.g., benzalkonium chloride and / or substituted benzalkonium chloride), di(C6-C14)alkyl di-short chain (C1-4 alkyl and / or hydroxyalkyl) quaternary ammonium salts, N-(3-chloroallyl) hexamonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride. Other quaternary ammonium compounds include the group consisting of dialkyldimethylammonium chloride, alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, dialkylmethylbenzylammonium chloride, and mixtures thereof, as well as biguanides, such as polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride, p-chlorophenyl biguanide, 4-chlorobenzhydryl biguanide, and halogenated hexidines, such as, but not limited to, chlorhexidine (1,1'-hexamethylene-bis-5-(4-chlorophenyl biguanide) (CHG).

[0100] Other suitable additives may include, for example, essential oils, plant extracts, crosslinkers, chelating agents, fatty acids, alcohols, pH adjusters, reducing agents, linkers, buffers, enzymes, dyes, colorants, fragrances, preservatives, emulsifiers, foaming agents, polymers, thickeners, viscosity modifiers, chelating agents (e.g., dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), 2,3-dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid (DMPS), alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), thiaminetetrahydrofurfuryl disulfide (TTFD), penicillamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), sodium acetate, sodium citrate and citric acid), C8-C14 alcohol ester mixtures (e.g., EXXATE from Exxon Chemical), 900, 1000, 1200), glycols (e.g., propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol and tripropylene glycol), acid esters (e.g., methyl oleate and methyl linoleate), diacids (e.g., methyl or butyl diesters of glutaric acid, adipic acid and succinic acid), petroleum hydrocarbons, amino acids, amines (e.g., morpholine, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, 1,3-propylenediamine, 2-amino-1,3-propanediol and 3-aminopropanol), alkanolamines (e.g., triethanolamine, diethanolamine, 2-aminomethylpropanol and monoethanolamine), n-methyl-2-pyrrolidone; water softeners, chelating agents, corrosion inhibitors and antioxidants, which are added in amounts sufficient to perform their intended functions. These additives and their amounts are well within the skill of the art. Suitable water softeners include linear phosphates, styrene-maleic acid copolymers and polyacrylates. Suitable chelating agents include 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone, 1-phenyl-3-isoheptyl-1,3-propanedione and 2-hydroxy-5-nonylacetophenone oxime. Examples of corrosion inhibitors include 2-aminomethyl propanol, diethylethanolamine benzotriazole and methylbenzotriazole. Antioxidants suitable for use in the present invention include (BHT) 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol, (BHA) 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-anisole, Eastman inhibitor OA BM-oxalylbis(benzylidene hydrazide) and Eastman DTBMA 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone.

[0101] Exemplary Embodiments

[0102] In certain exemplary embodiments, the cleaning composition comprises:

[0103] I) 100 ppm to 5 wt% of one or more glycolipids; 0 to 5 wt% of a surfactant or a surfactant mixture; and the remainder being one or more solvents.

[0104] II) In one embodiment, the composition is the composition of I), wherein the glycolipid is SLP, MEL or a mixture of these types of glycolipids.

[0105] III) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I) or II), wherein the solvent is or comprises a glycol ether, for example, monobutylene glycol, tributylene glycol and / or tripropylene glycol methyl ether.

[0106] IV) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II) or III), wherein the solvent is or comprises a dibasic ester, such as a dialkyl adipate, a dialkyl succinate and / or a dialkyl azelate.

[0107] V) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II), III) or IV), wherein the solvent is or comprises a ketone solvent, such as acetone or methyl isobutyl ketone.

[0108] VI) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II), III), IV) or V), wherein the solvent is or comprises a ketal, such as acetone peroxide, methyl ethyl ketone peroxide and / or glycerol acetone acetal.

[0109] VII) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II), III), IV), V) or VI), wherein the solvent is or comprises a terpene, such as DL-limonene.

[0110] VIII) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II), III), IV), V), VI) or VII), wherein the solvent is or comprises water.

[0111] IX) In one embodiment, the composition is a composition of I), II), III), IV), V), VI) or VII), wherein the surfactant comprises lauramine oxide.

[0112] X) In one embodiment, the composition is a mixture of any one of II) to IX).

[0113] XI) In one embodiment, the composition is the composition of any one of I) to X), wherein the composition comprises an alkaline soap (eg sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) and sodium and / or potassium fatty acid salts (eg potassium cocoate).

[0114] XII) In one embodiment, the composition is the composition of any one of I) to XI), wherein the composition comprises an acid, such as citric acid, oxalic acid or hydrogen peroxide.

[0115] XIII) In one embodiment, the composition is the composition of any one of I) to XII), wherein the composition comprises a bleaching agent, such as sodium hypochlorite.

[0116] method

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention also provides a method of cleaning a porous surface and / or improving the cleaning of a non-porous surface by applying the cleaning composition of the present invention to the surface.

[0118] In certain embodiments, the surface is a porous material, wherein the contaminants are present on the surface of the material and / or in the pores of the material. Examples of porous materials include, but are not limited to, concrete, brick, ceramic, cinder block, stone, aggregate board, asphalt, untreated wood, gypsum board, drywall, plaster, stucco, and some plastics.

[0119] In some embodiments, the method is particularly useful for removing difficult-to-remove contaminants from porous surfaces, including, for example, graffiti, paint, permanent ink, dyes, mold, and algae. In addition, the method can be used to improve the efficiency of removing these and other contaminants from non-porous surfaces, including, for example, treated wood, treated stone, synthetic siding, metal, glass, and certain non-porous plastics.

[0120] In some embodiments, the present invention may be used to remove odors emanating from buildings, walkways, pools, or other structures caused by algae and / or mold growth on surfaces.

[0121] As used herein, "applying" a composition or product means contacting it with a target or part so that the composition or product can have an effect on the target or part, specifically, remove contaminants from the surface. For example, the target contaminated surface can be immersed, immersed, soaked and / or soaked in the cleaning composition. The composition can also be injected, dispersed, distributed, poured, coated, sprayed, rubbed, wiped, brushed or applied to the surface by any other means contemplated by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0122] In certain embodiments, the cleaning composition is applied to the surface by spraying using, for example, a spray bottle or a pressurized spray device.

[0123] In certain preferred embodiments, the composition is sprayed onto the surface at high pressure. In preferred embodiments, high pressure is defined as 1000 psi to 10000 psi. The exact pressure may vary depending on the type of contaminant and the type of surface to be cleaned. In one embodiment, for smaller household type cleaning, the pressure may range from about 1000 to about 2000 psi, for medium-sized tasks, the pressure may range from about 2000 to about 3000 psi, and for larger scale industrial cleaning jobs, the pressure may range from 3000 to about 7000 or 8,00 psi.

[0124] Power or pressure washers are commonly used to clean, for example, the sides of buildings and other structures, screens, sidewalks and patios, cars, boats, airplanes, lawn equipment, grates, fences, walls, floors, grills, and heavy machinery. Advantageously, when the cleaning compositions of the present invention are used as part of a power washer solution, they can improve the removal of contaminants compared to, for example, the use of water or other cleaning chemicals alone.

[0125] In certain embodiments, the spraying of the composition, whether at high pressure or standard pressure, can be carried out at high temperature to further improve the cleaning efficiency. For example, in some embodiments, the spraying is carried out at a temperature of from about 25°C to 300°C, from 35°C to 250°C, from 45°C to 200°C, or from 55°C to 150°C.

[0126] In one embodiment, the surface is soaked with the cleaning composition thereon for a sufficient time to promote the removal of contaminants. For example, the soaking can be carried out for up to 5 minutes to 72 hours, 10 minutes to 56 hours, 15 minutes to 48 hours, 20 minutes to 36 hours, 25 minutes to 24 hours, or as long as required.

[0127] In one embodiment, the method also includes the step of removing cleaning compositions and pollutants from the surface. This can be achieved by, for example, rinsing or spraying water onto the surface and / or rubbing or wiping the surface with a cloth until the cleaning compositions and pollutants have been removed from the surface. Can be before and / or after rubbing or wiping the surface with a cloth, rinse with water or spray. In some embodiments, rinsing and spraying is carried out under high pressure and / or high temperature, for example, under the above-mentioned pressure and / or temperature for applying cleaning compositions, carry out. In some embodiments, abrasive material is applied simultaneously with pressurized spraying (for example sandblasting).

[0128] In another embodiment, after applying the cleaning composition, mechanical methods can be used to remove the contaminants and / or the cleaning composition from the surface. For example, a stirrer, drill, hammer, sandpaper or scraper can be used to remove contaminants from surfaces that are particularly difficult to remove due to the amount of contaminants or the type of contaminants, etc.

[0129] In certain embodiments, the present invention provides methods for removing graffiti, methods for removing mold and algae, methods for removing permanent inks and dyes, and methods for removing food particles and / or pathogens from porous surfaces.

[0130] Advantageously, the compositions and methods of the present invention improve the safety and environmental impact of cleaning difficult-to-remove contaminants in, for example, public places, homes, businesses, healthcare and industrial environments and in the presence of humans, plants and animals. In addition, the compositions and methods utilize biodegradable and toxicologically safe ingredients, thereby reducing the amount of harsh cleaning chemicals required to achieve the desired cleaning level.

Claims

1. A cleaning composition comprising one or more glycolipids, one or more surfactants and one or more solvents.

2. The cleaning composition according to claim 1, wherein the glycolipid is sophorolipid, mannosylerythritol lipid or a mixture thereof.

3. The cleaning composition of claim 1, comprising from 100 ppm to 5 wt% of one or more glycolipids.

4. The cleaning composition of claim 1 comprising up to 5 wt% of one or more surfactants.

5. The cleaning composition of claim 1, wherein the one or more surfactants comprises lauramine oxide.

6. The cleaning composition of claim 1, wherein the one or more solvents are selected from the group consisting of glycol ethers, dibasic esters, ketone solvents, ketal solvents, terpenes, and water.

7. The cleaning composition according to claim 6, wherein the glycol ether is selected from monobutylene glycol, tributylene glycol and tripropylene glycol methyl ether.

8. The cleaning composition of claim 6, wherein the dibasic ester is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl adipates, dialkyl succinates, and dialkyl azelates.

9. The cleaning composition according to claim 6, wherein the ketone solvent is selected from acetone and methyl isobutyl ketone.

10. The cleaning composition of claim 6, wherein the terpene is DL-limonene.

11. The cleaning composition of claim 1, further comprising one or more of an alkaline soap, an acid, and a bleaching agent.

12. A method for removing contaminants from a surface, wherein the method comprises: applying a cleaning composition comprising one or more glycolipids, one or more surfactants, and one or more solvents to the surface; and removing the cleaning composition and contaminants from the surface, The contaminants are paint, ink, dye, mold, algae, food particles or microorganisms.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition is applied to the surface by spraying.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein spraying is accomplished using a spray bottle.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein spraying is accomplished using a pressurized spray device, and wherein the composition is sprayed at a pressure of 1000 psi to 7000 psi.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the pressurized spray device is a power washer or a pressure washer.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition is applied to the surface at a temperature of 25°C to 300°C.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition is rubbed, spread or brushed onto the surface using a cloth or a brush.

19. The method of claim 12, wherein applying the cleaning composition comprises dipping, soaking, or immersing the surface in a container having the cleaning composition therein.

20. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition is allowed to soak on the surface for a period of 5 minutes to 72 hours prior to removing the cleaning composition and contaminants from the surface.

21. The method of claim 12, wherein removing the cleaning composition and contaminants comprises flushing or spraying water onto the surface.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the spraying is accomplished using a pressurized spray device, and wherein the water is sprayed at a pressure of 1000 psi to 7000 psi.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the water is applied to the surface at a temperature of 25°C to 300°C.

24. The method of claim 12, wherein removing the cleaning composition and contaminants comprises rubbing or wiping the surface with the cloth until the cleaning composition and contaminants have been removed from the surface.

25. The method of claim 12, wherein removing the cleaning composition and contaminants comprises sandblasting the surface.

26. The method of claim 12, wherein the porous surface is brick, ceramic, cinder block, stone, aggregate board, asphalt, untreated wood, gypsum board, drywall, plaster, stucco, or porous plastic.

27. The method of claim 12, wherein the glycolipid is a sophorolipid, a mannosylerythritol lipid, or a mixture thereof.

28. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition comprises from 100 ppm to 5 wt% of one or more glycolipids.

29. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition comprises up to 5 wt% of one or more surfactants.

30. The method of claim 12, wherein the one or more surfactants comprises lauramine oxide.

31. The method of claim 12, wherein the one or more solvents are selected from glycol ethers, dibasic esters, ketone solvents, terpenes, and water.

32. The method of claim 12, wherein the glycol ether is selected from the group consisting of monobutyl glycol, tributyl glycol and tripropylene glycol methyl ether.

33. The method of claim 12, wherein the dibasic ester is selected from the group consisting of dialkyl adipates, dialkyl succinates, and dialkyl azelates.

34. The method of claim 12, wherein the ketone solvent is selected from the group consisting of acetone and methyl isobutyl ketone.

35. The method of claim 12, wherein the terpene is DL-limonene.

36. The method of claim 12, wherein the cleaning composition further comprises one or more of an alkaline soap, an acid, and a bleaching agent.

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