Fabric softener active compositions for preparing transparent fabric softener compositions

Abstract

A fabric softener active composition comprising, based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition: A) 20 to 80 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from the group consisting of mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and B) 10 to 50 wt% of at least one softening component, the softening component is selected from two long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, two long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, two long-chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, two long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated two long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated three long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated two long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts. Transparent fabric softener compositions and fabric softener products are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to fabric softener active compositions and transparent fabric softener compositions having improved properties and to processes for their preparation. Background Art

[0002] Fabric softener compositions are usually opaque. However, recent significant trends show an increasing demand for fabric softener compositions having a transparent appearance.

[0003] WO 00 / 42139A1 discloses fabric care compositions, in particular fabric care compositions for ironing. The disclosed fabric care compositions contain a mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt as a solubilizer. Example 9 of WO 00 / 42139A1 specifically discloses a mixture of monotallow trimethyl ammonium chloride and methyl di(tallowamidoethyl) 2-hydroxyethyl ammonium methyl sulfate (methylsulfate) ( LM-90).

[0004] US 2003 / 0060390 A1 discloses a liquid fabric softener comprising N,N-di(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl)N,N-dimethylammonium chloride and N-(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl)N-hydroxyethyl N,N-dimethylammonium chloride.

[0005] US 4,157,307 A discloses a fabric softening composition comprising tallow trimethylammonium chloride and 1-methyl-1[(stearylamido)ethyl]-2-heptadecyl-4,5-dihydroimidazolium chloride.

[0006] Therefore, the prior art discloses specific mono-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts.

[0007] WO 2019 / 048556 A1 discloses microemulsion technology to prepare transparent fabric softener active compositions, and their use for preparing fabric softeners. Such microemulsions are difficult to prepare, and their stability, especially stability at low temperatures, is not good enough. In addition, the amount of softening ingredients in the microemulsions in the embodiments of WO 2019 / 048556 A1 is relatively high, i.e., more than about 10wt% of the microemulsion. The fabric softener further contains a large amount of oil and non-aqueous solvents. In addition, the softener obtained by diluting the fabric softener active composition of WO 2019 / 048556A1 is not completely transparent at low temperatures. Summary of the invention

[0008] In order to at least partially solve the problems of the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a fabric softener active composition which can be used to easily prepare a transparent fabric softener composition having excellent stability at low temperatures at room temperature. Importantly, the transparent fabric softener composition can be further diluted but remains transparent.

[0009] The present invention provides a fabric softener active composition, based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0010] A) 20 to 80 wt %, preferably 30 to 80 wt %, more preferably 30 to 75 wt %, even more preferably 35 to 70 wt %, most preferably 45 to 60 wt % of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts;

[0011] B) 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softening ingredient selected from di-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts; and

[0012] C) one or more non-aqueous solvents in a total amount of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt%,

[0013] The amounts of component A), component B) and component C) are selected from the ranges given above so that the sum of said components plus the optionally further included components totals 100% of said softener active composition for fabric.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0015] In the context of the present invention, the term "quaternary ammonium salt", each "quaternary" is understood to mean a compound containing a quaternary nitrogen atom and one or more long-chain alkyl groups in the cationic part of the ion pair. This is preferably understood to mean a class of compounds having the general formula RR'R"R"'N + A - A surface-active quaternary ammonium compound characterized in that at least one of the R to R"' groups is a long-chain alkyl group or comprises a long-chain alkyl group. In the context of the present invention, the term "long-chain alkyl group" is understood to mean an alkyl group having more than 4 carbon atoms, preferably 10 to 24, even more preferably 11 to 21 carbon atoms. Preferably, one, two or three of the R to R"' groups are saturated or unsaturated, linear, branched or cyclic hydrocarbon groups, which are optionally interrupted by oxygen atoms or nitrogen atoms or carboxyl groups and are optionally substituted.

[0016] In the context of the present invention, the term "long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt" is understood to mean a compound containing both a quaternary nitrogen atom in the cationic part of the ion pair and an ester bond. This is preferably understood to mean a class of compounds having the general formula RR'R"R"'N + A - A surface-active quaternary ammonium compound, characterized in that at least one of the R to R"' groups is a long-chain alkyl group having more than 4 carbon atoms and is bonded to the charged group via an ester bond C(O)O- or OC(O)-. Preferably, one, two or three of the R to R"' groups are saturated or unsaturated, linear, branched or cyclic hydrocarbon groups, which are optionally interrupted by oxygen atoms or nitrogen atoms or carboxyl groups and are optionally substituted.

[0017] In the present invention, the anion A which is compatible with the fabric softener - is a counterion to the positive charge on the quaternary nitrogen group, which also includes doubly or triply negatively charged ions, preferably a halide, in particular chloride, sulfate, phosphate, methylsulfate, ethylsulfate, methanesulfonate, ethanesulfonate, toluenesulfonate, acetate, lactate or citrate, more preferably methylsulfate or a halide, such as Cl - , most preferably the methylsulfate anion.

[0018] Originating from the production process of (alkoxylated or non-alkoxylated) alkyl quaternary ammonium salts or alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts (also known as esterquats), these products are usually produced as mono-, di- and tri-alkyl quaternary ammonium salts or mixtures of mono-, di- and tri-alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts with the corresponding number of long-chain alkyl groups, respectively. In the present invention, "on average" in relation to "mono" means that the ammonium salt contains on average 0.8 to 1.2, preferably 0.9 to 1.1, more preferably 0.95 to 1.05, most preferably 0.98 to 1.02 long-chain alkyl groups per molecule of the corresponding solubilizer. Thus, "on average" in relation to "di" means that the ammonium salt contains, on average, 1.8 to 2.2, preferably 1.9 to 2.1, more preferably 1.95 to 2.05, most preferably 1.98 to 2.02 long-chain alkyl groups per molecule of the corresponding softening component, and "on average" in relation to "tri" means that the ammonium salt contains, on average, 2.8 to 3.2, preferably 2.9 to 3.1, more preferably 2.95 to 3.05, most preferably 2.98 to 3.02 long-chain alkyl groups per molecule of the corresponding softening component. For example, esterquats such as WE 45 has an average number of fatty acid ester groups of two and is described as a diester quaternary ammonium compound.

[0019] In the present invention, “single-long-chain alkyl” is preferably understood as “single-long-chain alkyl on average”, “two-long-chain alkyl” is preferably understood as “two-long-chain alkyl on average”, and “three-long-chain alkyl” is preferably understood as “three-long-chain alkyl on average”.

[0020] The fabric softener active composition can be used to prepare a clear fabric softener composition. The clear softener composition can be prepared simply by diluting the fabric softener active composition with water.

[0021] The fabric softener active composition may not contain any nonionic surfactant. Preferably, the fabric softener active composition comprises nonionic surfactants in an amount of 0 to 5 wt%, preferably 0 to 2 wt%, more preferably 0 to 1 wt%, even more preferably 0 to 0.5 wt%, particularly preferably 0 to 0.1 wt%, and most preferably does not contain any nonionic surfactant. All wt% percentages are related to the total weight of the fabric softener active composition.

[0022] The fabric softener active composition may not contain any ester oil or mineral oil. Preferably, it contains ester oil and / or mineral oil in an amount of 0 to 5 wt %, preferably 0 to 2 wt %, more preferably 0 to 1 wt %, even more preferably 0 to 0.5 wt %, particularly preferably 0 to 0.1 wt %, and most preferably does not contain any ester oil or mineral oil. All wt % percentages are related to the total weight of the fabric softener active composition. With regard to the present invention, the term "ester oil or mineral oil" is understood to mean a water-immiscible liquid suitable for the production of a fabric softener composition. With regard to the present invention, "water-immiscible" means that at room temperature, based on the total mixture, an aqueous mixture of oils with an oil concentration of 0.5% to 99.5% by volume leads to a turbidity that is already perceptible to the human eye or leads to the formation of two or more phases. In addition, with regard to the present invention, the preferred feature of the ester oil or mineral oil is that they have an interfacial tension relative to water> 5 mN / m. The ester oil or mineral oil can be based on, for example, oil chemistry or silicone chemistry.

[0023] In the present invention, one or more components A) are used as one or more solubilizing agents. Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, the sum of the amount of one or more solubilizing agents A) contained in the fabric softener active composition is 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, and most preferably 45 to 60 wt%. The amount of the solubilizing agent should be sufficient to solubilize the softening ingredients in the final fabric softener. If the sum of the content of the solubilizing agent A) is less than 20 wt%, the solubilizing effect may be insufficient, and an opaque softener composition may be obtained after diluting the softener active composition with water. If the sum of the content of the solubilizing agent A) exceeds 80 wt%, the softening effect may be insufficient, i.e., it may no longer meet the requirements of consumers.

[0024] In the present invention, one or more components B) are used as one or more softening ingredients. The sum of the amount of the one or more softening ingredients B) contained in the fabric softener active composition is 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, and most preferably 25 to 35 wt%, based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition. If the sum of the content of the one or more softening ingredients (B) is less than 10 wt%, the softening performance may be insufficient. If the sum of the content of the one or more softening ingredients (B) exceeds 50 wt%, diluting the fabric softener active composition with water may result in an opaque (i.e. non-transparent) fabric softener.

[0025] Solubilizer

[0026] The prior art (WO 00 / 42139 A1) discloses examples of mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts.

[0027] In one aspect, the mono-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts contain on average one linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl group. In another aspect, they contain on average one C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 long-chain alkyl group and three C1 to C4 short-chain alkyl groups per molecule.

[0028] In one aspect, the mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt is represented by the following general formula (1):

[0029]

[0030] Among them, R 1 R represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, in one aspect a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21 carbon atoms, in one aspect 12 to 18, in one aspect 14 to 18, in one aspect 16 to 18 carbon atoms. In one aspect, the long chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl and mixtures thereof. 2 , R 3 , R 4 Each independently represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, in one aspect a methyl group or an ethyl group; and A - It is an anion that is compatible with fabric softeners.

[0031] Typical examples of the mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt according to formula (1) include the following compounds, wherein R 1 is a linear saturated C16 to C18 alkyl group, R 2 , R 3 , R 4 Each is methyl and A - is chlorine. The commercial product of this compound is 471 (tallow alkyl trimethylammonium, commercially available from Evonik Industries AG). WO 00 / 42139 A1 also discloses mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts.

[0032] The mono-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts of the present invention contain one linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl group on average. More preferably, they contain one C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 alkyl group on average, and optionally further contain short-chain, linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl groups.

[0033] The preferred mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt is represented by formula (2):

[0034]

[0035] Among them, R 1represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0036] R 2 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3 carbon atoms;

[0037] R 3 , R 4 , R 5 each independently represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0038] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0039] Preferably, the mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt is a mono-C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 alkyl amido trimethyl quaternary ammonium salt. The most preferred salts include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (2), wherein R 1 represents a linear saturated C10 to C21, preferably C11 to C17 alkyl group, preferably a tallow alkyl group or a palmityl alkyl group containing 16 to 18 carbon atoms, R 2 R is propylene, 3 , R 4 , R 5 Each represents a methyl group, and A - Methyl sulfate or Cl - Commercial products of this class of compounds are 1618AM (palmitamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride, commercially available from Evonik Industries AG).

[0040] The alkoxylated mono-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention preferably refers to an ethoxylated or ethoxylated and propoxylated mono-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, which contains, on average, one linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl group. More preferably, it contains, on average, one C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 alkyl group. If the ammonium salt is partially propoxylated, the amount of propoxy groups is preferably selected so that the solubilizing agent still has good water solubility.

[0041] More preferably, "alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt" refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (3):

[0042]

[0043] Among them, R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0044] R 2 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group;

[0045] x and y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 15, and x+y≥2;

[0046] L is a direct bond or a methylene group, preferably a direct bond; and

[0047] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0048] Preferred examples of alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts are ethoxylated, or ethoxylated and propoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts. The most preferred examples include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (3), wherein R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C16 to C18 alkyl group, preferably a linear saturated C16 to C18 alkyl group, R 2 is a methyl group, L is a direct bond, A - Methyl sulfate or Cl - , and x, y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 4, and the average value of x+y is 4. A commercial product of this compound is available from Evonik Industries AG 108.

[0049] If L in formula (3) is a direct bond, the residue "-(CH2CH2-LO)" in formula (3) x -" is "-(CH2CH2O) x -".

[0050] If L in formula (3) is a methylene group, then the residue "-(CH2CH2-LO) in formula (3) x -" is "-(CH2CH2CH2O) x -".

[0051] The alkoxylated mono-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention preferably refers to an ethoxylated or ethoxylated and propoxylated mono-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, which contains, on average, one linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl group. More preferably, it contains, on average, one C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 alkyl group. If the ammonium salt is partially propoxylated, the amount of propoxy groups is selected so that the solubilizing agent still has good water solubility.

[0052] More preferably, "alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt" refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (4):

[0053]

[0054] Among them, R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0055] R 2 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3 carbon atoms;

[0056] R 3 represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group;

[0057] x and y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 15, and x+y≥2;

[0058] T is a direct bond or a methylene group, preferably a direct bond; and

[0059] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0060] Preferred examples of alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts are ethoxylated, or ethoxylated and propoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts. The most preferred examples include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (4), wherein R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 12 to 18, preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, R 2 R is propylene, 3 is a methyl group, T is a direct bond, A - Methyl sulfate or Cl -; and x and y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 15 and x+y≥2.

[0061] If T in formula (4) is a direct bond, then the residue "-(CH2CH2-TO)" in formula (4) x -" is "-(CH2CH2O) x -".

[0062] If T in formula (4) is a methylene group, then the residue "-(CH2CH2-TO) in formula (4) x -" is "-(CH2CH2CH2O) x -".

[0063] Softening ingredients

[0064] The di-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention preferably refers to the following di-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, which has two linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups, preferably unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups, independently of each other on average. More preferably, they contain two C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18 alkyl groups, more preferably C16 to C18 alkyl groups on average. Even more preferred are C16 to C18 alkyl groups with one or two double bonds, most preferably having an iodine value (IV) greater than 90. Most preferably, "di-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt" refers to a salt according to formula (5):

[0065]

[0066] Among them, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched alkyl group, preferably a linear unsaturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably containing one or two double bonds, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from C16 to C18 alkyl groups having an iodine value (IV) greater than 90;

[0067] R 3 , R 4 each independently represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0068] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0069] The di-long-chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt is preferably a di-C16 to C18 alkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium salt.

[0070] More preferred examples of the di-C16 to C18 alkyl quaternary ammonium salt include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (5), wherein R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear unsaturated C16 to C18 alkyl group and has an iodine value (IV) greater than 90, R 3 and R 4 is methyl, and A - Methyl sulfate or Cl - .

[0071] The di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts of the present invention refer to quaternary ammonium salts having, on average, two linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long chain alkyl groups. More preferably, they contain, on average, two C10 to C21, preferably C12 to C18, even more preferably C16 to C18 alkyl or alkenyl groups. Most preferred are C16 to C18 alkyl groups having one or two double bonds, and most preferably have an iodine value (IV) greater than 90. Most preferably, "di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts" refer to ammonium salts according to formula (6):

[0072]

[0073] Among them, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched alkyl group, preferably a linear alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms and preferably one or two double bonds, most preferably the long chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0074] R 3 is methyl, ethyl, propyl or hydroxyethyl, preferably methyl or hydroxyethyl;

[0075] R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, more preferably a methyl group;

[0076] Q 1 is hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl, preferably hydrogen or methyl, more preferably hydrogen;

[0077] Q 2 is hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl, preferably hydrogen or methyl, more preferably hydrogen; and

[0078] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or MeSO4 - .

[0079] Preferred examples of the di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (6), wherein R1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having 16 to 18 carbon atoms, preferably containing one or two double bonds, R 3 is hydroxyethyl or methyl, R 4 is methyl and A - Methyl sulfate or Cl - . With R 3 =Hydroxyethyl commercial products of this type of compound are WE 45VEG, and has R 3 =Methyl commercial products of this type of compound are CR 3099, both from Evonik Industries AG.

[0080] The ethoxylated di-long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention refers to the following quaternary ammonium salt, which has two linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups on average, preferably saturated long-chain alkyl groups, and the long-chain alkyl groups are preferably C10 to C21 alkyl groups, more preferably C12 to C18 alkyl groups, and even more preferably C16 to C18 alkyl groups. More preferably, "ethoxylated di-long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt" refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (7):

[0081]

[0082] Among them, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group containing 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof;

[0083] R 3 is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl or CH2CH2OH or (CH2CH2O) n H, wherein n is an integer from 2 to 5, preferably R 3 is methyl or hydroxyethyl or propyl or isopropyl;

[0084] x and y are each independently an integer from 1 to 10, and x+y≥4;

[0085] R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0086] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0087] The ethoxylated tri-long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention refers to the following quaternary ammonium salt, which has three linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups on average, preferably saturated long-chain alkyl groups, and the long-chain alkyl groups are more preferably C10 to C21 alkyl groups, more preferably C12 to C18 alkyl groups, and even more preferably C16 to C18 alkyl groups. Most preferably, "ethoxylated tri-long-chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt" refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (8):

[0088]

[0089] Among them, R 1 , R 2 , R 3 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group containing 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof;

[0090] x, y, and z each independently represent an integer from 1 to 10, and x+y+z≥4;

[0091] R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0092] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0093] The di-long-chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention refers to the following ammonium salt, which has two linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups on average, preferably C10 to C21, preferably C10 to C18, more preferably C12 to C18 alkyl groups. Most preferably, "di-long-chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt" refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (9):

[0094]

[0095] Among them, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof;

[0096] R 3 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3, preferably 2, carbon atoms;

[0097] R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0098] A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0099] Preferred examples of di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts include, but are not limited to, compounds according to formula (9), wherein R 1 and R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having 16 to 18 carbon atoms, R 3 is ethylene, R 4 is methyl and A - is methyl sulfate or Cl - Commercial products of this class of compounds are available from Evonik Industries AG. Soft LD.

[0100] The di-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt and ethoxylated di-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt of the present invention [generally referred to herein as "(ethoxylated) di-long-chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt"] refers to the following ammonium salt, which has two linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated long-chain alkyl groups, preferably saturated long-chain alkyl groups, and the long-chain alkyl groups are preferably C10 to C21, more preferably C10 to C18, and even more preferably C12 to C18 alkyl groups. More preferably, it refers to an ammonium salt according to formula (10):

[0101]

[0102] Among them, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 18, more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof;

[0103] R 3 Methyl or ethyl or -(CH2CH2O) x H, x represents an integer from 1 to 10;

[0104] R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and

[0105] A -is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

[0106] Preferred examples of (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts according to formula (10) include, but are not limited to, the following compounds, wherein R 1 , R 2 For beef tallow, R 3 -(CH2CH2O) x H, x represents an integer from 0 to 10, R 4 is methyl, and A - Methyl sulfate or Cl - .

[0107] These compounds are commercially available from Evonik Industries AG. 222LM.

[0108] The non-aqueous solvent may be present as component C) and is preferably selected from the group comprising, preferably consisting of: hydrotropes, for example hydrotropes from aliphatic alcohols, such as ethanol, propanol or propane-1,3-diol; cyclic carbonates, for example ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, glycerol carbonate; esters of mono- or polycarboxylic acids, for example ethyl acetate, ethyl lactate; glycerol; isopropanol; dipropylene glycol; glycol ethers (available, for example, as The name is available from Dow Chemicals) and polyols.

[0109] The polyols (or "polyol solvents") contemplated herein may have 2 to 15 carbon atoms and at least two hydroxyl groups. Typical examples are: glycerol; alkylene glycols, such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol (= propane-1,3-diol), butanediol, pentanediol, hexanediol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, and polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol; polyhydroxycarboxylic acids; butyl diglycol; and mixtures of these solvents.

[0110] Preferred polyol solvents are selected from ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, and hexylene glycol.

[0111] It is particularly preferred that the nonaqueous solvent C) is selected from aliphatic alcohols, such as ethanol, propanol or propane-1,2-diol, glycerol, glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol and dipropylene glycol.

[0112] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, the sum of the amounts of non-aqueous solvents C) contained in the fabric softener active composition is 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt%.

[0113] In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0114] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 45 wt%, most preferably 30 to 35 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from: a mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (2) as defined above; and an alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (4) as defined above;

[0115] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: di-long chain alkyl esterquats, preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl esterquats, preferably according to formula (7) as defined above; ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl esterquats, preferably according to formula (8) as defined above; and

[0116] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from: ethanol, isopropanol, polyol solvents, more preferably selected from polyol solvents, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0117] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0118] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0119] In a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0120] A) 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from: mono long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (2) as defined above; and alkoxylated mono long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0121] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9) as defined above; (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (10) as defined above; and

[0122] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, more preferably propylene glycol,

[0123] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0124] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0125] In a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0126] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (2) as defined above;

[0127] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9) as defined above; (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (10) as defined above; and

[0128] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0129] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0130] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0131] In a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0132] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 40 to 60 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0133] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 35 wt%, even more preferably 25 to 30 wt% of at least one softener selected from: di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9) as defined above; (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (10) as defined above, and wherein the at least one softener is most preferably selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; and

[0134] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0135] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0136] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0137] In a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0138] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, yet even more preferably 50 to 70 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0139] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 10 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, more preferably 10 to 35 wt%, more preferably 10 to 30 wt%, more preferably 10 to 25 wt%, more preferably 10 to 20 wt%, more preferably 10 to 15 wt% of at least one softener selected from (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (10) as defined above; and

[0140] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 20 to 30 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0141] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0142] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0143] In a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0144] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 50 wt%, yet even more preferably 35 to 45 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0145] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 50 wt%, more preferably 20 to 50 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined above; ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (7) as defined above; ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (8) as defined above; and

[0146] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 35 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 30 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 20 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 15 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0147] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0148] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0149] In a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0150] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 75 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 40 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from: a mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (2) as defined above; and an alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (4) as defined above;

[0151] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (7) as defined above; ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (8) as defined above; and

[0152] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, polyol solvents, more preferably selected from polyol solvents, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0153] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0154] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0155] In an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0156] A) 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from: mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (2) as defined above; and alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt is preferably according to formula (4) as defined above;

[0157] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from: a di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt, the quaternary ammonium salt preferably being according to formula (9) as defined above; and

[0158] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0159] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0160] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0161] In a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0162] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (2) as defined above;

[0163] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (6) as defined above; and

[0164] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0165] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0166] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0167] In a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0168] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (2) as defined above;

[0169] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9); and

[0170] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0171] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0172] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0173] In an eleventh preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0174] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 50 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 70 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (2) as defined above;

[0175] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from (ethoxylated) di-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (10) as defined above; and

[0176] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0177] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0178] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0179] In a twelfth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0180] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, yet even more preferably 50 to 70 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0181] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 20 to 50 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (6) as defined above; and

[0182] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 30 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, polyol solvents, more preferably selected from polyol solvents, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0183] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0184] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0185] In a thirteenth preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabric softener active composition comprises:

[0186] A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, yet even more preferably 50 to 70 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (3) as defined above;

[0187] B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, the quaternary ammonium salts preferably being according to formula (9); and

[0188] C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 10 to 30 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, polyol solvents, more preferably selected from polyol solvents, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol,

[0189] Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the range given above, so that their sum plus the optionally further contained compounds (such as the components described below as fabric softener-compatible components) totals 100 wt% of the fabric softener active composition,

[0190] Wherein, even more preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) (i.e. all solubilizers) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) (i.e. all softeners) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.64.

[0191] Among the above-mentioned thirteen preferred embodiments, the second, third, fourth and twelfth are particularly preferred, and the third, fourth and twelfth are even more preferred, among which the third and fourth are even more preferred, and the third is most preferred.

[0192] The present invention also provides a fabric softener composition comprising:

[0193] 1) a fabric softener active composition of the present invention, and

[0194] 2) Water.

[0195] The fabric softener composition of the present invention is a transparent liquid, preferably it is a transparent liquid at the following temperatures: 0°C to 15°C, more preferably 0°C to 25°C, even more preferably -5°C to 30°C, particularly preferably -5°C to 40°C, particularly preferably -5°C to 50°C, most preferably -5°C to 60°C. The fabric softener active composition completely dissolves in water and forms an aqueous solution.

[0196] By "aqueous solution" is meant that the fabric softener composition is thermodynamically stable. When the fabric softener active composition is dissolved in water, micelles, i.e., aggregates of surfactant molecules, are formed that are dispersed in water. The aqueous solution of the present invention is neither a suspension, nor a microemulsion, nor an emulsion. A suspension is a multiphase fluid containing solid particles. The particle size is usually larger enough to settle. An emulsion or microemulsion refers to a heterogeneous system that contains a first liquid phase that forms droplets that are dispersed in a second liquid phase (solvent). Emulsions and microemulsions tend to separate the phases. Therefore, the fabric softener composition of the present invention is more stable than a fabric softener composition that is a suspension, microemulsion, or emulsion.

[0197] The fabric softener composition may not contain any ester oil or mineral oil. The fabric softener composition preferably contains ester oil and / or mineral oil in an amount of 0 to 1 wt%, preferably 0 to 0.5 wt%, more preferably 0 to 0.1 wt%, even more preferably 0 to 0.05 wt%, particularly preferably 0 to 0.01 wt%, and most preferably does not contain any ester oil or mineral oil.

[0198] The fabric softener composition may not contain any nonionic surfactant. Preferably, the fabric softener composition comprises nonionic surfactants in an amount of 0 to 1 wt%, preferably 0 to 0.5 wt%, more preferably 0 to 0.1 wt%, even more preferably 0 to 0.05 wt%, particularly preferably 0 to 0.01 wt%, and most preferably does not contain any nonionic surfactant. All wt% percentages are related to the total weight of the fabric softener composition.

[0199] The transparent fabric softener composition comprises an effective amount of the fabric softener active composition of the present invention. In other words, the amount of the fabric softener active composition of the present invention should enable the fabric softener composition to achieve a softening effect. The amount of the fabric softener active composition in the fabric softener composition of the present invention can be determined by a person skilled in the art based on the amount of component B) of the fabric softener active composition, or the amounts of both component A) and component B).

[0200] The fabric softener composition preferably has a content of both component A) and component B) of the fabric softener active composition of 3.5 to 70 wt % in total, based on the total weight of the fabric softener composition. In addition, when the fabric softener composition is diluted with water, for example, 10 times, 100 times, 1000 times or even infinitely, the fabric softener is always transparent.

[0201] The amount of water should be sufficient to dissolve the fabric softener active composition to form a clear aqueous solution.

[0202] The fabric softener composition may further comprise other fabric softener compatible components useful in conventional fabric softener compositions, such as one or more additives and / or adjuvants selected from the group consisting of emollients, viscosity modifiers, pearlescent additives, dyes, insect repellents, preservatives, perfumes, dyes and defoamers.

[0203] The perfume used can be any perfume or perfume mixture known from the prior art to be suitable for fabric softeners, preferably in the form of perfume oils. Examples of perfumes or scents are disclosed in particular in DE 197 51 151 A1, page 4, lines 11-17. More specifically, the composition according to the invention can contain 0.01 to 10 wt %, more preferably 0.1 to 5 wt %, of one or more perfumes, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0204] The dyes used may be any dyes known from the prior art to be suitable for use in fabric softeners, preferably water-soluble dyes. Examples of suitable water-soluble commercial dyes are Walkblau NBL 150 (manufacturer: Clariant) and Azorubin 85E122 (Manufacturer: BASF). More particularly, the composition according to the invention may contain from 0.001% to 0.1% by weight, more preferably from 0.002% to 0.05% by weight, of one or more dyes.

[0205] As a viscosity modifier for reducing viscosity, the fabric softener composition may comprise an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt, or a mixture thereof, preferably calcium chloride, preferably in an amount of 0.05 to 2% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

[0206] As viscosity regulators for increasing the viscosity, the aqueous fabric softener composition may comprise suitable thickeners known from the prior art, preferably polyurethane thickeners known from WO 2007 / 125005 A1. Examples of suitable thickeners are Visco Plus 3030 (manufacturer: Evonik TEGO Chemie), 880 and 882 (manufacturer: Rohm & Haas), CDE (manufacturer: BASF), KF 720F (Manufacturer: Evonik GmbH) and from Neochem GmbH K100.

[0207] The defoamer used may be any defoamer known from the prior art to be suitable for use in fabric softener compositions. Examples of suitable commercial defoamers are Dow DB-110A and 7001XP. More particularly, the composition according to the invention may contain from 0.0001 wt% to 0.05 wt%, preferably from 0.001 wt% to 0.01 wt% of one or more different antifoaming agents.

[0208] As preservatives, the fabric softener composition may comprise active bactericidal and / or fungicidal ingredients known from the prior art to be suitable, preferably water-soluble active ingredients. Examples of suitable commercial bactericides are methyl paraben, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one. Aqueous fabric softener compositions may likewise comprise oxidation inhibitors as preservatives. Examples of suitable commercial oxidation inhibitors are ascorbic acid, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), tocopherol and propyl gallate. More particularly, the composition according to the invention may contain from 0.0001% to 0.5%, more preferably from 0.001% to 0.2% by weight of one or more different preservatives. More particularly, the composition according to the invention may contain from 0.001% to 0.1% by weight, preferably from 0.001% to 0.01% by weight, of one or more different oxidation inhibitors.

[0209] In some embodiments, based on the total weight of the transparent fabric softener composition, the transparent fabric softener composition comprises,

[0210] A) 3 to 8 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent as defined above, preferably selected from the group consisting of mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts,

[0211] B) 1 to 5 wt% of at least one softening ingredient as defined above, selected from di-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts,

[0212] C) optionally a non-aqueous solvent as defined above, and

[0213] D) The balance of water.

[0214] The present invention further provides a fabric softener product comprising:

[0215] a) a fabric softener composition of the present invention; and

[0216] b) a carrier or package containing the fabric softener composition.

[0217] The package is typically a container, such as a bottle.

[0218] The present invention also provides the use of the fabric softener active composition of the present invention in the preparation of a transparent fabric softener composition or a fabric softener product comprising the transparent fabric softener composition.

[0219] The fabric softener active composition is easy to prepare and the correspondingly prepared fabric softener composition exhibits the following advantages:

[0220] - Easy to prepare;

[0221] - Easy to use, it remains stable and transparent after dilution with deionized water 10 times, 100 times or more or indefinitely at room temperature;

[0222] - Great softness, which can be easily perceived by consumers;

[0223] - the fabric softener composition is transparent at room temperature to 0°C or even -5°C, provided that it is still in liquid form;

[0224] - A fabric softener composition in a frozen state at -15°C can be restored back to a transparent state at room temperature within 24 hours.

[0225] Thus, the clear fabric softener composition has excellent stability at low temperatures and can be diluted without becoming turbid.

[0226] The fabric softener composition may have an average particle size of micelles, i.e. micelle size, of less than 50 nm, preferably less than 40 nm, more preferably less than 30 nm, even more preferably less than 20 nm, particularly preferably less than 15 nm, very particularly preferably less than 12 nm to 1 nm, most preferably from 10 nm to 2 nm, as determined according to the method "ISO 22412-2017 Particle size analysis - Dynamic light scattering (DLS)".

[0227] Other advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the specification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0228] The present invention will now be described in detail by way of the following examples. The scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments of the examples.

[0229] Material

[0230] The following materials were used in the examples Solubilizer :

[0231] 1618AM (Evonik Industries AG) is a mixture of 60 wt% palmitamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride and 40 wt% propylene glycol. Palmitamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride is a long-chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salt, and its chemical structure corresponds to formula (2).

[0232] 471 (Evonik Industries AG) is a mixture of 50 wt% monotallow alkyl trimethyl quaternary ammonium salt and 50 wt% isopropyl alcohol ("isopropyl alcohol"="IPA"). Monotallow alkyl trimethyl quaternary ammonium salt is a mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt, and its chemical structure corresponds to formula (1).

[0233] In Examples 13 to 15 (comparative), a mixture of 70 wt% monotallow alkyl trimethyl quaternary ammonium salt and 30 wt% IPA was used. This mixture is called "MTTMAC".

[0234] 108 (Evonik Industries AG) is 100 wt% CH3SO4 - Ethoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt [CH3SO4 - Ethoxylated coconut oil alkyl di(hydroxyethyl)methyl quaternary ammonium salt], its chemical structure corresponds to formula (3).

[0235] The following materials were used in the examples Softening ingredients :

[0236] Soft LD (Evonik Industries AG) is a 90 wt% imidazolinium compound 2-(C17-saturated and C17-unsaturated alkyl)-1-[2-(C18-saturated and C18-unsaturated amido)ethyl]-4,5-dihydro-1-methylimidazolinium in CH3SO4 - A mixture of a salt and 10 wt% of IPA. These imidazolinium compounds are di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, and their chemical structures correspond to formula (9).

[0237] WE 45VEG (Evonik Industries AG) is 85 wt% CH3SO4 - A mixture of N,N-di[(C16-18 saturated and C18-unsaturated alkyl)carboxyethyl]-N-hydroxyethyl-N-methyl quaternary ammonium salts and 15 wt% of ethanol. These quaternary ammonium salts are di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, and their chemical structures correspond to formula (6).

[0238] CR 3099 (Evonik Industries AG) is 98 wt% of bis-(isostearoyl / oleoyl isopropyl)dimoniumquaternary ammonium methosulfate (98%; Evonik Industries AG), which is a di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt. Its chemical structure corresponds to formula (6).

[0239] 222LM (Evonik Industries AG) is 90wt% CH3SO4 - A mixture of N,N-di(2-tallowamidoethyl)-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-methyl quaternary ammonium salt and 10 wt % of IPA. The quaternary ammonium salt is a di-long chain alkylamido quaternary ammonium salt, and its chemical structure corresponds to formula (10).

[0240] Example 1 (Invention)

[0241]

[0242] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0243] 500g Preheat 1618AM to a transparent liquid, then mix the liquid with 500g of WE 45VEG mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 1#.

[0244] The prepared fabric softener active composition 1# was a transparent liquid at 25°C.

[0245] A clear fabric softener composition (Softener 1-1#) was prepared by diluting 100 g of the above softener active composition 1# with 900 g of deionized water ("DI" = deionized water) at room temperature ("RT" = room temperature).

[0246] Softener 1-1#

[0247] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 1# 100 Deionized water 900

[0248] A clear fabric softener composition (Softener 1-2#) was prepared by diluting 500 g of softener active composition 1# with 500 g of deionized water.

[0249] Softener 1-2#

[0250] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 1# 500 Deionized water 500

[0251] Example 2 (Comparative)

[0252]

[0253] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0254] 600g 471 and 400g Soft LD was mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 2#.

[0255] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition #2 with 900 g of deionized water.

[0256] Softener 2-1#

[0257] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 2# 100 Deionized water 900

[0258] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 200 g of fabric softener active composition #2 with 800 g of deionized water.

[0259] Softener 2-2#

[0260] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 2# 200 Deionized water 800

[0261] Example 3 (Invention)

[0262]

[0263] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0264] Preheat 700g 1618AM to obtain a transparent liquid and preheat 300g 222LM to obtain a transparent liquid, and then the two liquids are mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 3#.

[0265] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 150 g of fabric softener active composition #3 with 850 g of deionized water.

[0266] Softener 3-1#

[0267] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 3# 150 Deionized water 850

[0268] Example 4 (Invention)

[0269]

[0270] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0271] 800g of blended 108 and 200g CR 3099 to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 4#.

[0272] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 200 g of fabric softener active composition #4 with 800 g of deionized water.

[0273] Softener 4#

[0274] raw material wt% Fabric softener active composition 4# 20 Deionized water 80

[0275] Example 5 (Comparative)

[0276]

[0277] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0278] Mix 850g 471 and 150g 222LM to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 5#.

[0279] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 200 g of fabric softener active composition #5 with 800 g of deionized water.

[0280] Softener 5#

[0281] raw material wt% Fabric softener active composition 5# 20 Deionized water 80

[0282] Example 6 (Invention)

[0283]

[0284] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0285] 650g of blend 108 and 350g Soft LD to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 6#.

[0286] A clear fabric softener composition was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition #6 with 900 g of deionized water.

[0287] Softener 6#

[0288] raw material wt% Fabric softener active composition 6# 10 Deionized water 90

[0289] Performance Testing

[0290] All fabric softener compositions prepared in Examples 1-6 were clear at room temperature and provided the following additional benefits:

[0291] - Great softness, which can be easily felt;

[0292] - when dissolved in water, for example, when 10 g of the fabric softener composition is dissolved in 1 L of water at room temperature, it has a transparent appearance; and

[0293] - It maintains a transparent liquid state at -5°C for at least 24h, and it recovers quickly (1-2 hours at room temperature) to natural transparency from a frozen state at -18°C.

[0294] Comparative Example 1

[0295] A fabric softener composition according to Example 10 of WO 2019 / 048556 A1 was prepared.

[0296] Softener 1-1# Example 10 of WO 2019 / 048556A1 Active ingredient content 7.25％ 10％ Visual inspection after 10-fold dilution transparent turbid Softening performance 4 4

[0297] The composition of the fabric softener active composition according to Example 10 of WO 2019 / 048556 A1 is as follows:

[0298]

[0299] * EC 11 (capped fatty alcohol ethoxylate), commercially available from Evonik Industries AG.

[0300] When diluted 10 times (100 g of softener 1-1# was diluted with 900 g of deionized water), softener 1-1# was still transparent, but the fabric softener composition according to Example 10 of WO 2019 / 048556 A1 became turbid.

[0301] Particle size analysis

[0302] The particle size of softener 1-1# and commercial fabric softener was also determined according to the method "ISO 22412-2017 Particle size analysis - Dynamic light scattering (DLS)". The results showed that:

[0303] The micelle particle size of softener 1-1# is about 9 nm.

[0304] The micelle size of softener 1-1# after 100 times dilution is about 5nm.

[0305] The particle size of the commercial fabric softener composition formed into a dispersion is about 300 nm.

[0306] The particle size of the commercial fabric softener composition after 100-fold dilution is about 100-200 nm.

[0307] The composition of this commercial fabric softener composition is as follows:

[0308]

[0309] WE 28SH*: Di-(palmitoylcarboxyethyl)hydroxyethylmethylammonium methylsulfate, CAS No. 157905-74-3, commercially available from Evonik Industries AG.

[0310] The commercial fabric softener is miky and opaque. After 100 times dilution, it is cloudy and not transparent.

[0311] In order to investigate the performance of corresponding combinations of softener / solubilizers at low temperatures over long periods of time, a further test series was carried out in which the following inventive examples 7 to 12 and comparative examples 13 to 15 were carried out.

[0312] Example 7 (Invention)

[0313]

[0314] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0315] Preheat 500g 1618 to obtain a transparent liquid, and preheat 400g 222LM to obtain a clear liquid, and then the two liquids were mixed with 100g of propylene glycol to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 7#.

[0316] A transparent fabric softener composition 7-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 7# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0317] Softener 7-1#

[0318] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 7# 100 Deionized water 900

[0319] Example 8 (Invention)

[0320]

[0321] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0322] Preheat 650g 1618 to obtain a transparent liquid, which was then mixed with 350 g of WE 45VG was mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 8#.

[0323] A transparent fabric softener composition 8-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 8# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0324] Softener 8-1#

[0325] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 8# 100 Deionized water 900

[0326] Example 9 (Invention)

[0327]

[0328] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0329] Preheat 700g 1618AM to obtain a transparent liquid, which was then mixed with 300g of WE 45VG was mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 9#.

[0330] A transparent fabric softener composition 9-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 9# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0331] Softener 9-1#

[0332] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 9# 100 Deionized water 900

[0333] Example 10 (Invention)

[0334]

[0335] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0336] Blend 420g 108, 270g CR 3099 and 310 g of propylene glycol to obtain a homogeneous fabric softener active composition 10#.

[0337] A transparent fabric softener composition 10-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 10# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0338] Softener 10-1#

[0339] raw material Weight(g) Softener active composition 10# 100 Deionized water 900

[0340] Example 11 (Invention)

[0341]

[0342] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0343] 700g of blended 108 and 300g CR 3099 to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 11#.

[0344] A transparent fabric softener composition 11-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 11# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0345] Softener 11-1#

[0346] raw material Weight(g) Softener active composition 11# 100 Deionized water 900

[0347] Example 12 (Invention)

[0348]

[0349] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0350] Preheat 700g 1618AM to obtain a transparent liquid, which was then mixed with 300g of SoftLD was mixed to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 12#.

[0351] A transparent fabric softener composition 12-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 12# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0352] Softener 12-1#

[0353] raw material Weight(g) Softener active composition 12# 100 Deionized water 900

[0354] Example 13 (Comparative Example)

[0355]

[0356] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0357] Preheat 600 g of MTTMAC to obtain a clear liquid and preheat 300 g of 222LM to obtain a clear liquid, and then the two liquids were mixed with 100g of propylene glycol to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 13#.

[0358] A transparent fabric softener composition 13-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 13# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0359] Softener 13-1#

[0360] raw material Weight(g) Softener active composition 13# 100 Deionized water 900

[0361] Example 14 (Comparative Example)

[0362]

[0363] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0364] Preheat 500g of MTTMAC to obtain a clear liquid and preheat 350g of 222LM to obtain a clear liquid, and then the two liquids were mixed with 150g of propylene glycol to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 14#.

[0365] A transparent fabric softener composition 14-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 14# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0366] Softener 14-1#

[0367] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 14# 100 Deionized water 900

[0368] Example 15 (Comparative Example)

[0369]

[0370] The fabric softener active composition was prepared by the following method:

[0371] Preheat 430 g of MTTMAC to obtain a clear liquid and preheat 400 g of 222LM to obtain a clear liquid, and then the two liquids were mixed with 170g of propylene glycol to obtain a uniform fabric softener active composition 15#.

[0372] A transparent fabric softener composition 15-1# was prepared by diluting 100 g of fabric softener active composition 15# with 900 g of deionized water.

[0373] Softener 15-1#

[0374] raw material Weight(g) Fabric softener active composition 15# 100 Deionized water 900

[0375] Low temperature performance evaluation

[0376] 100 g of each of fabric softener compositions 7-1#, 8-1#, 9-1#, 10-1#, 11-1#, 12-1#, 13-1#, 14-1#, 15-1# was stored at 25° C., 4° C., -5° C., and -18° C. for 72 hours.

[0377] Then, the appearance of each softener composition was observed. The results are summarized in the following table.

[0378] Softener# 7-1 8-1 9-1 10-1 11-1 12-1 13-1 14-1 15-1 25℃ Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 4℃ Y Y Y Y Y Y N N N -5℃ Y Y Y Y Y Y N N N -18℃ Y+ Y+ Y+ Y+ Y+ Y+ N- N- N-

[0379] "Y": Clear, transparent liquid.

[0380] "N": Not clear, but rather cloudy or turbid liquid.

[0381] “Y+”: can recover from freezing to a native transparent liquid within 24 hours at 25°C.

[0382] "N-": Cannot recover from freezing to natural transparent liquid within 24 hours at 25°C.

[0383] result:

[0384] All fabric softener compositions 7-1#, 8-1#, 9-1#, 10-1#, 11-1#, 12-1#, 13-1#, 14-1#, 15-1# are transparent at 25°C / room temperature. However, as shown by the low temperature performance evaluation test, fabric softener compositions 13-1#, 14-1#, 15-1# using the solubilizer MTTMAC of the prior art (WO 00 / 42139A1) become turbid when stored at 4°C or -5°C. When frozen at -18°C for 72h, the turbidity is irreversible within 24h.

[0385] In contrast, the fabric softener compositions 7-1#, 8-1#, 9-1#, 10-1#, 11-1#, and 12-1# in which the solubilizer of the present invention is used do not become turbid when stored at 4° C. or -5° C., but remain clear and transparent. In addition, after being frozen at -18° C. for 72 hours, the transparency and clarity of the liquid are restored within 24 hours at 25° C.

[0386] Thus, the fabric softener active compositions and fabric softener compositions according to the invention offer the unexpected advantage that, when diluted, they are completely transparent at low temperatures and also recover their transparency after being frozen at low temperatures (-18° C.) for an extended period of time (i.e. 72 h). Surprisingly, this behavior was not observed when comparative compositions of the prior art were stored for such extended periods of time.

[0387] As used herein, terms such as "comprising" and the like are open-ended terms meaning "including at least," unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0388] All references, tests, standards, documents, publications, etc. mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference. Where numerical limits or ranges are stated, the endpoints are included. Likewise, all values ​​and subranges within the numerical limits or ranges are specifically included as if explicitly written out.

[0389] The above description is given to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the present invention, and the above description is provided in the context of a specific application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but should conform to the widest range of principles and features disclosed herein. In this regard, in a broad sense, a specific embodiment within the present invention may not show each benefit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fabric softener active composition comprising, based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition: A) 20 to 80 wt %, preferably 30 to 80 wt %, more preferably 30 to 75 wt %, even more preferably 35 to 70 wt %, most preferably 45 to 60 wt % of at least one solubilizing agent selected from the group consisting of mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts; B) 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softening ingredient selected from di-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts; and C) one or more non-aqueous solvents in a total amount of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt%, in, The amounts of component A), component B) and component C) are selected from the ranges given above so that the sum of the components plus the optionally further included components totals 100% of the softener active composition.

2. A fabric softener active composition according to claim 1, wherein the fabric softener active composition comprises non-ionic surfactants in an amount of 0 to 5 wt%, preferably 0 to 2 wt%, more preferably 0 to 1 wt%, even more preferably 0 to 0.5 wt%, particularly preferably 0 to 0.1 wt%, and most preferably does not contain any non-ionic surfactants.

3. A fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ratio of the weight of all components A) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.

64.

4. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (2): Where R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21 carbon atoms, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof; R 2 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3 carbon atoms; R 3 , R 4 , R 5 each independently represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

5. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (3): Where R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof; R 2 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; x and y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 15, and x+y≥2; L is a direct bond or a methylene group, preferably a direct bond; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

6. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (4): Where R 1 represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a linear saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 14 to 18, even more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, most preferably the long chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or mixtures thereof; R 2 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3 carbon atoms; R 3 represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; x and y each independently represent an integer from 0 to 15, and x+y≥2; T is a direct bond or a methylene group, preferably a direct bond; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

7. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the softening ingredient di-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (5): in, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched alkyl group, preferably a linear unsaturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 21, preferably 12 to 18, more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, the alkyl group preferably contains one or two double bonds, and the most preferred long-chain alkyl group is selected from C16 to C18 alkyl groups having an iodine value (IV) greater than 90; R 3 , R 4 each independently represents a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

8. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (6): in, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched alkyl group, preferably a linear alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, and preferably having one or two double bonds, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof; R 3 is methyl, ethyl, propyl or hydroxyethyl, preferably methyl or hydroxyethyl; R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group, more preferably a methyl group; Q 1 is hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl, preferably hydrogen or methyl, more preferably hydrogen; Q 2 is hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl, preferably hydrogen or methyl, more preferably hydrogen; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or MeSO4 - .

9. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (7): in, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group containing 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof; R 3 is methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl or CH2CH2OH or (CH2CH2O) n H, wherein n is an integer from 2 to 5, preferably R 3 is methyl or hydroxyethyl or propyl or isopropyl; x and y are each independently an integer from 1 to 10, and x+y≥4; R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

10. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ethoxylated tri-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (8): in, R 1 , R 2 , R 3 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group containing 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof; x, y, and z each independently represent an integer from 1 to 10, and x+y+z≥4; R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

11. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt has the general formula (9): in, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 17 carbon atoms, most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof; R 3 is an alkylene group containing 1, 2 or 3, preferably 2, carbon atoms; R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to C4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl or ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

12. The fabric softener active composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt and the ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salt have the general formula (10): in, R 1 , R 2 Each independently represents a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, more preferably a saturated alkyl group, the alkyl group having 10 to 18, preferably 11 to 18, more preferably 16 to 18 carbon atoms, and most preferably the long-chain alkyl group is selected from tallow alkyl, palmityl alkyl or a mixture thereof; R 3 Methyl or ethyl or -(CH2CH2O) x H, x represents an integer from 1 to 10; R 4 is a linear or branched C1 to 4 alkyl group, preferably a methyl group or an ethyl group; and A - is an anion compatible with fabric softeners, preferably Cl - or CH3SO4 - .

13. The fabric softener active composition of claim 1 or 2, comprising: A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the mono-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (2) as defined in claim 4; B) 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined in claim 8, the di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9) as defined in claim 11, wherein the di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (10) as defined in claim 12; and C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol, Based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, wherein: The amounts of the individual compounds A) to C) are selected from the ranges given previously so that their sum plus the optionally further comprised compounds totals 100 wt. % of the fabric softener active composition, Wherein preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1.5 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1.2 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.

64.

14. The fabric softener active composition of claim 1 or 2, comprising: A) a total of 20 to 80 wt%, preferably 25 to 80 wt%, more preferably 28 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 80 wt%, more preferably 30 to 75 wt%, even more preferably 30 to 70 wt%, still even more preferably 30 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 35 to 60 wt%, still even more preferably 40 to 60 wt%, most preferably 45 to 60 wt% of at least one solubilizing agent selected from alkoxylated mono-long chain alkyl quaternary ammonium salts, preferably according to formula (3) as defined in claim 5; B) a total of 10 to 50 wt%, preferably 15 to 45 wt%, more preferably 19 to 43 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 20 to 35 wt%, even more preferably 25 to 30 wt% of at least one softener selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts, di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, the di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined in claim 8, the di-long chain alkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (9) as defined in claim 11, wherein the di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts and ethoxylated di-long chain alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (10) as defined in claim 12; and wherein, The at least one softening agent is most preferably selected from di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts, the di-long chain alkyl ester quaternary ammonium salts are preferably according to formula (6) as defined in claim 8; and C) a total of 0 to 50 wt%, preferably 5 to 45 wt%, more preferably 10 to 40 wt%, even more preferably 15 to 35 wt%, particularly preferably 20 to 35 wt%, most preferably 25 to 35 wt% of a non-aqueous solvent, the non-aqueous solvent is preferably selected from ethanol, isopropanol, a polyol solvent, more preferably selected from a polyol solvent, even more preferably selected from glycerol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, hexylene glycol, most preferably propylene glycol, wherein the amount of each of compounds A) to C) is selected from the ranges given previously, based on the total weight of the fabric softener active composition, so that their sum plus the optionally further comprised compounds totals 100 wt. % of the fabric softener active composition, Wherein preferably, the ratio of the weight of all components A) in the fabric softener active composition to the weight of all components B) in the fabric softener active composition is in the range of 1:2 to 1:0.15, more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.2, even more preferably 1:1 to 1:0.43, even more preferably 1:0.77 to 1:0.

64.

15. A fabric softener composition comprising: 1) A fabric softener active composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and 2) Water.

16. The fabric softener composition according to claim 15, wherein the fabric softener composition is transparent.

17. A fabric softener composition according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the fabric softener composition is an aqueous solution of micelles dispersed in water, preferably the average particle size of the micelles measured according to "ISO 22412-2017 Particle size analysis - Dynamic light scattering (DLS)" is below 50 nm, preferably below 40 nm, more preferably below 30 nm, even more preferably below 20 nm, particularly preferably below 15 nm, very particularly preferably below 12 nm to 1 nm, most preferably 10 nm to 2 nm.

18. The fabric softener composition according to claim 15 or 16, wherein The fabric softener composition comprises ester oil and / or mineral oil in an amount of 0 to 1 wt %, preferably 0 to 0.5 wt %, more preferably 0 to 0.1 wt %, even more preferably 0 to 0.05 wt %, particularly preferably 0 to 0.01 wt % in total, and most preferably does not comprise any ester oil or mineral oil.

19. The fabric softener composition according to claim 15 or 16, wherein The total amount of component A) and component B) of the fabric softener active composition is from 3.5 to 70 wt%, based on the total weight of the fabric softener composition.

20. A fabric softener product comprising a) a fabric softener composition according to any one of claims 15 to 16; and b) a carrier or package containing the fabric softener composition.

21. Use of a fabric softener active composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14 for the preparation of a transparent fabric softener composition or a fabric softener product comprising the transparent fabric softener composition.

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