Mild wash compositions with biodegradable thickeners and enhanced microflora effects

Abstract

The invention relates to a washing composition with a stable composition. The laundry composition comprises a mixture of biodegradable thickeners having starch and cellulose. The laundry composition is mild at a pH of 4.2 or less, has a viscosity of 40,000 cps or less, and is surprisingly free of syneresis, fading and malodor even after storage at elevated temperatures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mild and stable washing composition comprising a biodegradable thickener. More specifically, the present invention relates to a washing composition comprising water, a surfactant and a biodegradable thickener, the thickener comprising more than 50 wt% starch based on the total weight of the thickener. Surprisingly, the washing composition is mild and also has a pH of 4.25 or less, which is ideal for skin microflora to maintain skin health. The composition also unexpectedly produces excellent lather and viscosity properties, is easily rinsed to obtain a clean and film-free sensory feel, and has no syneresis, discoloration and malodor after storage at elevated temperatures, even when formulated to be substantially free of soap, sulfate, isethionate, mercaptan and / or synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosslinked polymers, etc. Background Art

[0002] Washing compositions are commonly used to clean surfaces, such as the skin, and are often used to reduce shine, which is associated with sebum produced in specialized epithelial cells known as sebocytes. They are also used to minimize harmful bacteria on surfaces, such as the hands and face, and washing is therefore considered the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. In fact, experts believe that washing periodically throughout the day can reduce the number of consumers who contract colds by about 50%.

[0003] Consumers know that it is generally good practice to clean their hands regularly and not touch their face, eyes, and mouth in order to minimize the risk of getting sick. Information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic is a direct result of a virus that is more efficient and severe than the flu, which spreads rapidly from one person to another via respiratory droplets. During such a pandemic, consumers understand, and medical professionals emphasize, that it is in everyone's best interest to consistently wash their hands and face and wash inanimate surfaces they touch before use.

[0004] As consumers wash more often, it is highly desirable to develop a mild and consumer-friendly washing composition that creates positive conditions for the skin microflora and is more environmentally friendly. Therefore, the present invention relates to a mild and stable washing composition comprising water, a surfactant and a biodegradable thickener, the thickener comprising greater than 50 wt% starch based on the total weight of the thickener. The washing composition has a pH of 4.25 or less, which is ideal for the skin microflora to maintain skin health (i.e., by reducing Propionibacterium acne, which is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of acne). In addition, unexpectedly, the composition produces excellent foaming and viscosity characteristics, is easily rinsed to obtain a clean and film-free sensory feel, and has no syneresis, fading and malodor after storage at elevated temperatures, even when formulated to be substantially free of soap, sulfate, isethionate, mercaptan and / or synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosslinked polymers, etc.

[0005] Additional Information

[0006] Washing compositions with thickeners have been disclosed. In U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 0231665A1, hair cosmetic compositions with thiol-based compounds and thickeners are described.

[0007] Additional efforts to prepare cleaning compositions have been disclosed. In U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 008738A1, a personal care composition is described, which has a cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a polyacrylate cross-linked polymer structuring agent. The cleaning composition may include carrageenan as a thickener.

[0008] Other efforts to prepare cleaning compositions have been disclosed. In U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 0359735A1, water-soluble hybrid polymers suitable for use in body washes are described.

[0009] Other efforts to prepare washing compositions have also been disclosed. In US Pat. No. 9,549,885, scalp care compositions are described which may contain synthetic rheology modifiers such as acrylamide / ammonium acrylates / C10-C30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer or acrylates / steareth-20 itaconate copolymer.

[0010] None of the additional information describes a composition with a biodegradable thickener comprising greater than 50 wt% starch, cellulose and / or gum based on the total weight of the thickener, and a pH of 4.25 or less, as claimed herein. Summary of the invention

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising:

[0012] a) anionic surfactants;

[0013] b) amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, or both;

[0014] c) 0 to 4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and

[0015] d) 1.5 to 9.5 wt% of a thickener comprising greater than 50 wt% starch, preferably at least 70 wt% starch, most preferably at least 75 wt% (or 80 to 92 wt%, or 82 to 90 wt%, or 83 to 88 wt%) starch, based on the total weight of the thickener, provided that the thickener additionally comprises gums, cellulose or both, and wherein the gums constitute 0.05 to 0.125 wt%, preferably 0.06 to 0.115 wt%, most preferably 0.075 to 0.110 wt% (or 0.8 to 0.105 wt%) of the composition and the cellulose constitutes 0.2 to 2.0 wt%, preferably 0.25 to 1.65 wt%, preferably 0.275 to 1.6 wt% (or 0.28 to 0.8 wt%) of the composition,

[0016] wherein the thickener is substantially free of synthetic thickeners, and the detergent composition has a pH of 4.25 or less, preferably 3.4 to 4.2, most preferably 3.65 to 4.15 (or 3.7 to 4.1 or 3.7 to 4 or 3.75 to 3.9), and:

[0017] i) the composition has from 3.0 to 16 wt%, preferably from 4 to 14 wt%, most preferably from 4.5 to 12 wt% total surfactant; and

[0018] ii) the total surfactant comprises 20 to 99.5 wt%, preferably 30 to 95 wt%, most preferably 50 to 85 wt% (or 55 to 80 wt%, or 60 to 75 wt%) of anionic surfactant, based on the total weight of anionic, zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition,

[0019] The compositions are substantially free of soap, parabens, formaldehyde donors, mercaptans, sulfates and / or isethionates.

[0020] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning composition comprising:

[0021] a) anionic surfactants, wherein the anionic surfactants include taurates;

[0022] b) a zwitterionic surfactant, the zwitterionic surfactant comprising betaine and optionally an amphoteric surfactant;

[0023] c) 0 to 4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and

[0024] d) 1.5 to 9.5 wt% of a thickener

[0025] e) wherein the thickener comprises greater than 50 wt% starch, preferably at least 70 wt% starch, most preferably at least 75 wt% (or 80 to 92 wt%, or 82 to 90 wt%, or 83 to 88 wt%) starch, based on the total weight of the thickener, with the proviso that the thickener additionally comprises gums, cellulose or both, and wherein the gums comprise 0.05 to 0.125 wt%, preferably 0.06 to 0.115 wt%, most preferably 0.075 to 0.110 wt% (or 0.8 to 0.105 wt%) of the composition and the cellulose comprises 0.2 to 2.0 wt%, preferably 0.25 to 1.65 wt%, preferably 0.275 to 1.6 wt% (or 0.28 to 0.8 wt%) of the composition,

[0026] The composition has 3.0 to 16 wt%, preferably 4 to 14 wt%, most preferably 4.5 to 12 wt% total surfactant; and

[0027] i) the total surfactant comprises 20 to 99.5 wt%, preferably 30 to 95 wt%, most preferably 50 to 85 wt% (or 55 to 80 wt%, or 60 to 75 wt%) of anionic surfactant based on the total weight of anionic, zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition; and

[0028] ii) the composition has a pH of 4.25 or less, preferably 3.4 to 4.2, most preferably 3.65 to 4.15 (or 3.7 to 4.1 or 3.7 to 4 or 3.75 to 3.9)

[0029] The composition is substantially free of synthetic thickeners (eg, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, etc.).

[0030] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method of using a composition according to the first two aspects of the invention for washing a surface, including hair, skin or an inanimate surface.

[0031] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method of using a composition according to the first two aspects of the invention as a mild wash to enhance skin health, wherein the composition has a pH of from 3.4 to 4.2, or preferably from 3.7 to 4.1.

[0032] All other aspects of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following description and examples.

[0033] As used herein, "skin" means skin including arms (including lower arms), face, feet, neck, chest, hands, legs, buttocks and scalp (including hair). Cellulose includes water-insoluble polysaccharides consisting of chains of glucose molecules connected via β1-4 glycosidic bonds or linkages. Cellulose also includes polysaccharides that are water-soluble when chemically or physically modified, and polysaccharides that are water-dispersible when used with water-soluble cellulose. As used herein, "starch" refers to a water-soluble polysaccharide consisting of glucose molecules connected by linkages, the linkages including α1-4 and / or α1-6 glycosidic bonds or linkages. Gum refers to a thickener, which can be, for example, a polysaccharide produced by fermenting carbohydrates using Gram-negative bacteria (i.e., Xanthomonas campestris), a soluble fiber with a protein content generally in the range of 5% to 6% obtained from the endosperm of guar seeds, etc. "Cleaning composition" refers to a composition suitable for use on surfaces, including hard surfaces such as tables, countertops, appliances, windows, ceramic fixtures (e.g. toilets or sinks), cars and floors. Surfaces also include skin, preferably skin. "Substantially free" means less than 0.5 wt%, preferably less than 0.2 wt%, more preferably less than 0.1 wt%, most preferably less than 0.05 wt%, by weight of the composition. In one embodiment of the invention, substantially free includes 0.0 wt% (none) by weight of the composition. With respect to isethionates, substantially free means substantially free of isethionates as surfactants, other than salts such as sodium isethionate.

[0034] Therefore, the cleaning composition of the present invention is suitable as a home care composition, a shampoo, a makeup remover, a facial cleanser or a personal care agent, and a liquid bath or hand wash. Preferably, the cleaning composition of the present invention is a bath or hand wash that is ready for topical application and to be wiped or washed off, preferably a bath or hand wash that is to be washed off with water. The cleaning composition may optionally contain a medicament or therapeutic agent, but is preferably a wash as a cleaning and / or cosmetic wash, which is a non-therapeutic wash for washing away, for example, dirt, oil, and / or bacteria that can cause stains and / or malodors. As described below, the cleaning composition of the present invention may optionally contain skin-benefiting ingredients added thereto, such as vitamins and / or their derivatives, resorcinols, retinoic acid precursors, colorants, moisturizers, sunscreens, mixtures thereof, etc. The skin-benefiting ingredients (or agents) may be water-soluble or oil-soluble. If used, oil-soluble skin benefit agents typically comprise 1.5 wt % of the washing composition, wherein water-soluble skin benefit agents, when used, may comprise 10 wt % of the washing composition. The washing composition typically has a pH of 4.25 or less, preferably 3.4 to 4.2, most preferably 3.65 to 4.15 (or 3.7 to 4.1 or 3.7 to 4 or 3.75 to 3.9). Unless otherwise stated, viscosity is measured using a Discovery HR-2 rheometer using a sandblasted plate with a gap of 1000 microns and a first viscosity V A For 4s -1 The first shear rate S A and for the second viscosity V B For example, 10s -1 The second shear rate S B, both at 25°C and 20 seconds interval. Viscosity is reported in millipascal seconds (1 millipascal second = 1 centipoise (cps)). "Stable" as used herein means that after storage at 50°C for at least two (2) weeks, preferably at 45°C for at least one (1) month, and more preferably at 45°C for 1 to 4 months, the cleaning composition has no phase separation, fading and malodor generation. "Easy to rinse to obtain a clean and film-free sensory feel" means easy to wash off without leaving a sticky or tacky residue feeling as determined by trained panelists. "Biodegradable" as used herein refers to the decomposition of organic substances such as starch, gums and cellulose by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. "Enhance skin health" means providing a stable, mild and well-foaming composition while being in the acidic range (i.e. 4.2 or below) to keep the skin microbiome balanced for the maintenance of healthy skin. In particular, "enhancing skin health" means formulating at a pH below the pH of the skin (about 5.75) to affect negative bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes, while being mild and thus not irritating to the skin of the consumer using the cleansing composition.

[0035] The term "comprising" is intended to encompass the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of". For the avoidance of doubt, and for purposes of illustration, the compositions of the present invention comprising a surfactant and a biodegradable thickener are intended to include compositions consisting essentially of and compositions consisting of. "Low surfactant content" means no more than 16 wt%, preferably no more than 14 wt%, most preferably no more than 12 wt% (or 8.5 wt%) based on the total weight of the composition.

[0036] Except in the examples and comparative examples or where otherwise explicitly indicated, all numerical values ​​in this specification indicating the amount or ratio of materials or conditions and / or the physical properties of materials and / or use should be understood to be modified by the word "about". The present disclosure as prepared herein is intended to support all options and embodiments found in the claims that are multiple referenced to each other, regardless of the fact that the claims may be presented without multiple references. Unless otherwise stated, all ranges defined herein are intended to include all ranges included therein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] As for biodegradable thickeners suitable for use, the thickener comprises greater than 50 wt% starch, and cellulose and / or gums, based on the total weight of the thickener, wherein the thickener need not be manufactured synthetically and can be completely decomposed or disintegrated in the environment. In one embodiment of the invention, the thickener has at least 70 wt% starch, most preferably at least 75 wt% (or 80 to 92 wt%, or 82 to 90 wt%) starch, based on the total weight of the thickener, provided that the thickener additionally comprises gums, cellulose or both.

[0038] In another embodiment, when both gum and cellulose are used, the weight ratio of gum to cellulose is 1:10 to 10:1, or preferably 1:6 to 6:1, or most preferably 1:3 to 3:1 (or 1:2 to 2:1 or 1:1.5 to 1.5:1 or 1:1.2 to 1.2:1). In yet another embodiment, the weight ratio of gum to cellulose (when both are used with starch) is 1:1. In yet another embodiment, the thickener used in the detergent composition is at least 95wt%, preferably 96 to 100wt% starch, and gum and / or cellulose based on the total weight of the thickener used. Most preferably, the thickener used in the detergent composition is 100wt% (total) starch, and gum and / or cellulose.

[0039] Typically, the detergent composition of the present invention will contain 1.5 to 9.5wt% of a thickener, preferably 3 to 8.5wt%, most preferably 3.5 to 7.0wt% (or 4 to 6.2wt%) of a thickener. In another embodiment of the present invention, the thickener accounts for 3.75 to 5.75wt%, or 3.85 to 5.65wt% of the detergent composition. In one embodiment of the present invention and to avoid doubt, 100wt% of the thickener used in the detergent composition can be (preferably) a biodegradable thickener, the biodegradable thickener having starch and gum and / or cellulose, and wherein the thickener used is not starch-free as described herein. In another embodiment, 100wt% of the biodegradable thickener is starch and cellulose, or starch and gum, or starch, cellulose and gum, wherein they account for 4.75 to 6.25wt% of the detergent composition, preferably 4.85 to 6.15wt%, most preferably 5 to 5.75wt%. Likewise, with respect to the amount of gum and / or cellulose used, gum generally comprises 0.05 to 0.125 wt%, preferably 0.06 to 0.115 wt%, most preferably 0.075 to 0.110 wt% (or 0.8 to 0.105 wt%) of the detergent composition, while cellulose generally comprises 0.2 to 2.0 wt%, preferably 0.25 to 1.65 wt%, preferably 0.275 to 1.6 wt% (or 0.28 to 0.8 wt%) of the weight of the composition. The amount of starch in the detergent composition should be greater than 0.70 wt%, preferably greater than 1 wt%, most preferably greater than 1.5 wt%, most preferably 3.5 to 5.75 wt% (or 3.75 to 5.5 wt%, or 3.8 to 5.2 wt%) based on the weight of the detergent composition.

[0040] Salt or electrolyte, such as Na, Mg, Ca and / or ammonium chloride, comprises 0 to 2.5 wt% of the washing composition, preferably 0.1 to 1.35 wt%, most preferably 0.2 to 1 wt%. In another embodiment, the washing composition comprises less than 0.5 wt%, or less than 0.25 wt% of salt or electrolyte, or does not contain (0.0 wt%) salt or electrolyte.

[0041] As for suitable biodegradable thickeners, the starches include those that can be chemically or physically modified by one or more art-recognized techniques such as oxidation, cross-linking reactions, gelatinization, esterification, etherification, amidation, and art-recognized treatments including temperature changes. Distarch phosphates or compounds rich in distarch phosphates are starches that are generally included for use. Starch hydrolysates are also suitable for use.

[0042] Such starches may be derived or originate from any plant source, such as corn, peas, potatoes, oats, rice, cassava, sorghum, barley or wheat.

[0043] Suitable starches include starch and distarch phosphates such as acetylated distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch adipate, sodium starch octenyl succinate, hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate, mixtures thereof, and the like. Illustrative examples of starches suitable for use alone or in mixtures include: StarDesign TM Care、StarDesign TM Care AV, StarDesign TM 05340, 06328, C☆HiForm TM 、C☆HiForm A TM 、HiForm Starch TM 、StarDesign TM , B980, B990, B992, B994, AF 1100, CS 3757、FARMAL MS 6822、 GMS2143, MS 6892, MS 6135, GMS2141, CS21A, CS21R, MS 6135, GS1653, CS 3757, GMS2141, CS 3001、FARMAL CS 3410、 CS 3400, CS 3650, WS 4400, GMS2141、Nativacare TM 8600、Nativacare TM 5600、Nativacare TM 9360、Nativacare TM 9230、Nativacare TM9330;AGENAFLO9050,AGENAFLO OS 9051,AGENAFLO TS,AGENAJEL 20.313,AGENAJEL 20.306,AGENAJEL20.350,AGENAMALT 20.222,AGENAANOVA30.326,DEXTRIN 20.901,AGENABON 20.219, XL, 2143, 6892, STYLE, etc.

[0044] Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate, sold by Sinofi as E1440 Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, is also suitable for use.

[0045] Preferred hydroxypropyl starch and distarch phosphates suitable for use include those available from Grain Processing Corporation (e.g., B980, B990 food starch modified grade), StarDesign from Cargill Corporation TM (For example, ), Agenaflo (9050, 9051) from Agrana, and (e.g., CS3757), and Roquette (e.g., Zea Mays ST 005).

[0046] Other preferred starch phosphates, in particular hydroxypropyl starch phosphates, or suitable starch phosphate-rich compounds are available from Avebe as Prejel TM These include VA-70-T AGGL (gelled hydroxypropyl tapioca distarch phosphate), TK1 (gelled tapioca distarch phosphate), and 200 (gelled acetyl tapioca distarch phosphate).

[0047] As for celluloses suitable for use as biodegradable thickening agents, these include microcrystalline components generally classified as carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, or mixtures thereof.

[0048] Illustrative examples of microcrystalline cellulose that can be used include cellulose available from JRS Pharma GmbH & Co. COS5, COS6, COS8, CS 032XV, CS152HV, CS 302SV, 12. 14. 101. 102. 301, 200, 50M, 90M, 90HD, 200LP.

[0049] Other suitable microcrystalline celluloses include GP1412; 101. 102. 103. 112. 113. 301, 200, SMCC 50, SMCC 90, SMCC HD90, CL, DG, CE, HFE, NT-20, NTC-61, NT-50, NT-80, NT-100, NT-200, Cellulose gum BAK, Cellulose gumBEV, Cellulose gum MAS, Cellulose gum AMD, Cellulose gum NMD, Cellulose gum FZD、Methocel TM 240、Methocel TM E5, Methocel TM F4M、Methocel TM K4M、Methocel TMK15M、Methocel TM K15LV、Methocel TM F50、Methocel TM K100M、Methocel TM K 200M, Methocel TM 40-0100, Methocel TM 40-0202 and Methocel TM F50 is available from Dupont.

[0050] Available from Ming Thai Chemical Co. 101. 102. 301, 302; available from Blanver, Farmoquímica 101. 102. 200; available from Ingredion CMC 2700F; available from Lubrizol R49, R50; available from CP Kelco Citrus Fibers, Cellulose Liquid is also suitable for use. Other celluloses that may be used include: FM 02-V; available from CelluForce FiberDesign available from Cargill TM Sensation, available from CPKelco Citrus Fiber; CELLOSIZE available from Dow Chemical TM QP-10000H EUR、CELLOSIZE TM QP-100MH、CELLOSIZE TM QP-300, CELLOSIZE TM QP-4400H、EUR CELLOSIZE TM QP-15000H、CELLOSIZE TM QP-30000H、CELLOSIZE TM QP-52000H、CELLOSIZE TMEP-09; Methyl Cellulose PMK-40YS and PMK-60YS available from FirstContinental International Inc; carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyanionic cellulose (PAC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MHEC / HEMC) available from Kingsun Chemicals Inc.; hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), methyl cellulose (MC), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), highly substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (H-HPC), low substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (L-HPC), ethyl cellulose (EC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), polyanionic cellulose (PAC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate (HPMC-P) / (hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS), cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, powdered cellulose commercially available from SIDLEYCHEMICAL CO., LTD.

[0051] Preferred microcrystalline celluloses for use in the present invention are those commercially available from Dupont and JRS Pharma GmbH & Co.

[0052] Exemplary guar gums suitable for use in the present invention may contain both mannose units and galactose units in a unit ratio of about 2.5: 1 to 1.75: 1, preferably 2.25: 1 to 1.85: 1, most preferably 2.1: 1 to 1.95: 1. The galactose groups will be distributed along the mannose chain, and such gums may be nonionic, cationic or anionic.

[0053] As for exemplary nonionic guar gums, the nonionic guar gums may be unmodified nonionic guar gums. Typically, preferred unmodified and nonionic gums are sold under the trade names Vidogum GH 175 and 200, Vidogum GHK 175, Vidogum G and Vidocrem, commercially available from Unipektin. DuPont Danisco under the name Meypro TM LBG Fleur M-175 is commercially available from Cargill under the name Viscogum TM Commercially available from Solvay under the name For example S is commercially available from Ingredion under the name For example Guar gums commercially available as Guar Gum 3500 Powder and such guar gums sold under the name Polycos by Polygal AG, such as Polycos N-75, are also suitable for use. Guar gums sold under the name Supercol by suppliers such as Ashland and TM Nonionic guar gum commercially available from the US is also within the scope of use in the present invention.

[0054] The modified nonionic guar gum can be used alone or, if desired, in combination with other gums. Such modified and nonionic guar gums typically have C1-C8 hydroxyalkyl groups, preferably hydroxymethyl, hydroxyethyl and / or propyl groups.

[0055] Nonionic guar gums modified with hydroxyalkyl groups are commonly selected for use, for example, sold by Solvay under the names Jaguar HP60, Jaguar HP 105 and Jaguar HP 120. Other options include those sold under the name N-Hance TM For example, N-Hance TM HP40 and N-Hance TM HP40S commercially available from Ashland; those commercially available from Polygal AG under the name Polycos, e.g. Polycos A-80, A-80HV BF, A-240BF, A-240HV BF, A-400HV BF; and those commercially available from Rita Corp under the name CESMETIC and ESAFLOR, e.g. CESMETIC 4W, ESAFLOR HM 22, ESAFLOR HDR.

[0056] Galactomannan gums suitable for use typically have a cationic charge density of less than or equal to 1.65 milliequivalents per gram (meq. / g), more typically 0.1 to 1.2 meq. / g, as measured via art-recognized (e.g., ASTM) techniques.

[0057] Cationic galactomannan gums useful in the cleaning compositions of the present invention are, for example, those containing tri(C 1-4 ) alkylammonium cationic groups. Typically, 3% to 25% of the total percentage of hydroxyl functional groups of these gums have trialkylammonium cationic groups. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cationic galactomannan gum used is a cationic galactomannan gum containing hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium groups, such as guar gum modified with 2,3-epoxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride.

[0058] Specific galactomannan gums suitable for optional use are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,589,578 and 4,031,307, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Such gums (i.e., guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride) are available from Solvay under the name For example, the Jaguar EXCEL, Jaguar C13 S, Jaguar C 15, Jaguar C 17 and Jaguar C162 are commercially available from Evonik Degussa under the name Amilan TM Commercially available from Ashland under the name N-Hance TM For example, N-Hance TM BF13, N-Hance TM CG13, N-Hance TM CG17, N-Hance TM CCG45, N-Hance TM C261N、N-Hance TM HPCG 1000, N-Hance TM HPCG 1000, N-Hance TM 3000, N-Hance TM 3197、N-Hance TM 3215 is commercially available from Polygal AG under the name Polycos, such as Polycos CA-45, Polycos CA-750, Polycos CA-100RS, Polycos CA-1800, Polycos CA-3000, Polycos CA-3002, and from Rita Corp. under the name CESMETIC and ESAFLOR, such as CESMETIC BF7, ESAFLOR HC 56, ESAFLOR EC4 USA, ESAFLOR EC3, ESAFLOR EC 5, ESAFLOR BF7.

[0059] Anionic guar gum suitable for use includes groups generally derived from carboxylic acid, sulfonic acid, sulfenic acid, phosphoric acid, phosphonic acid or pyruvic acid and their salts. Most preferably, the anionic group is a carboxylic acid group. Counterions generally include sodium, calcium or potassium.

[0060] When used, anionic guar gums are typically those classified as carboxymethyl guar derivatives (ie, carboxymethyl guar or carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar).

[0061] Another gum suitable for use in the detergent compositions of the invention is recovered locust bean gum or carob gum, for example recovered from the seed kernels of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua).

[0062] Optionally, locust bean gum is used, for example from Cargill under the name Viscogum TM marketed by Unipektin under the name Vidogum L and by DuPont Danisco under the name Modified locust bean gums useful in the present invention include, for example, cationic locust bean gums sold by Toho Chemical under the names Catinal CLB, Catinal CTR-100 and Catinal CTR-200 (locust bean gum hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride).

[0063] Tara gums suitable for use in the detergent compositions of the present invention include, for example, those commercially available under the name Vidogum SP from Unipektin.

[0064] In one embodiment of the present invention, the gums used may include hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride guar gum, locust bean gum, konjac mannan gum, tragacanth gum, sodium alginate or propylene glycol alginate, kappa-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan or lambda-carrageenan, guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar gum, karaya gum, gum arabic (acacia gum), gellan gum, xanthan gum, succinoglycan or its acidic or enzymatic hydrolysate, agar, pectin, mixtures thereof, and the like.

[0065] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the gum selected for use is from Solvay S. From Ingredion Guar Gum 3500 Powder, Viscogum commercially available from Cargill TM Guar gum and / or Gellan Gum (anionic polysaccharide produced by the bacterium Shingomonaselodea) commercially available from CP Kelco.

[0066] Preferred biodegradable thickeners generally have a viscosity of 0.18 to 0.90, preferably 0.2 to 0.8, most preferably 0.22 to 0.70 g / ml (or 1000 kg / m 3), where the bulk density is the ratio of the mass of an untapped powder sample to its volume (including the contribution of inter-particle void volume) (i.e., dependent upon both the density of the powder particles and the spatial arrangement of the particles in the powder bed). Such thickeners also have a cloud point of 60 to 70°C and a weight average molecular weight of 75,000 to 1.5 million Daltons, preferably 80,000 to 1.25 million Daltons, most preferably 100,000 to 1.0 million Daltons.

[0067] With respect to the surfactants which may be used, this is limited to the extent that they are suitable for use in compositions to be applied topically to a surface, preferably the skin.

[0068] Anionic surfactants suitable for use in the detergent compositions of the present invention include fatty sulfonates, such as primary alkanes (e.g. C8-C 22 ) sulfonates, primary alkanes (e.g. C8-C 22 ) disulfonate, C8-C 22 Olefin sulfonates, C8-C 22 Hydroxyalkane sulfonate or alkyl glyceryl ether sulfonate (AGS); or aromatic sulfonate, such as alkylbenzene sulfonate. The anionic surfactant may also be an alkyl sulfate (e.g., C 12 -C 18 Alkyl sulfates) or alkyl ether sulfates (including alkyl glyceryl ether sulfates). Also included among the alkyl ether sulfates are those having the following formula:

[0069] RO(CH2CH2O) n SO3M

[0070] wherein R is an alkyl or alkenyl group having 8 to 18 carbons, preferably 12 to 18 carbons, n has an average value of at least 1.0, preferably less than 5, most preferably 1 to 4, and M is a solubilizing cation such as sodium, potassium, ammonium or substituted ammonium.

[0071] Anionic surfactants may also include alkyl sulfosuccinates (including monoalkyl and dialkyl, such as C8-C 22 sulfosuccinates); acyltaurates (usually methyltaurates), acylsarcosinates, sulfoacetates, C8-C 22 Alkyl phosphates and C8-C 22 Alkyl phosphonates (C8-C 22 alkyl phosphates and phosphonates), alkyl phosphates and alkoxyalkyl phosphates, acyl lactylates, C8-C22 Monoalkyl succinate salts and C8-C 22 Monoalkyl maleates, alkyl glucosides and acyl isethionates, etc.

[0072] The sulfosuccinate may be a monoalkyl sulfosuccinate having the formula:

[0073] R 1 O2CCH2CH(SO3M)CO2M;

[0074] and the amide-MEA sulfosuccinate of the formula:

[0075] R 1 CONHCH2CH2O2CCH2CH(SO3M)CO2M, where R 1 In C8-C 22 The range of alkyl groups.

[0076] Sarcosinate is generally represented by the following formula:

[0077] R 2 CON(CH3)CH2CO2M, where R 2 In C8-C 20 The range of alkyl groups.

[0078] Taurate is generally represented by the following formula:

[0079] R 3 CONR 4 CH2CH2SO3M

[0080] Where R 3 It is C8-C 20 Alkyl, R 4 It is a C1-C4 alkyl group.

[0081] M is a solubilizing cation as described above. Isethionates that can be used include C8-C 18 Acyl isethionates (including those having substituted head groups such as C 1-4 These esters are prepared by the reaction of an alkali metal isethionate with mixed aliphatic fatty acids having from 6 to 18 carbon atoms and an iodine value of less than 20. Typically, at least 75% of the mixed fatty acids have from 12 to 18 carbon atoms and up to 25% have from 6 to 10 carbon atoms.

[0082] Suitable acyl isethionates for optional use may be alkoxylated isethionates such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,393,466, issued Feb. 28, 1995 to Ilardi et al., entitled "Fatty Acid Esters of Polyalkoxylated isethonic acid," which is incorporated herein by reference. The compound has the following general formula:

[0083] R 5 CO(O)-C(X)HC(Y)H-(OCH2-CH2) m -SO3M

[0084] Where R 5 is an alkyl group having 8 to 18 carbons, m is an integer from 1 to 4, X and Y are each independently hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbons, and M is a solubilizing cation as described above.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, suitable anionic surfactants for optional use are sodium lauroyl isethionate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, sodium methyl lauroyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate or mixtures thereof. Such anionic surfactants are commercially available from suppliers such as Galaxy Surfactants, Clariant, SinoLion and Innospec. Sodium methyl lauroyl taurate is generally the preferred anionic surfactant for use.

[0086] The cleaning compositions may optionally contain glutamate and glycinate, but as with the isethionates, they are substantially free (i.e., less than 0.5%) of glutamate and glycinate in the form of surfactants. If optionally used, suitable glycinates include sodium lauroyl glycinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, sodium lauroyl glutamate, sodium cocoyl glutamate, sodium myristoyl glutamate, isopropyl lauroyl glutamate (i.e., C6-C 18 glutamate and glycinate) or a mixture thereof.

[0087] Suitable amphoteric surfactants for use in the present invention (which may be zwitterionic surfactants depending on the pH) include sodium acylamphoacetate, sodium acylamphopropionate, disodium acylamphodiacetate, and disodium acylamphodipropionate, wherein the acyl group (i.e., alkanoyl) may include C7-C 18 Alkyl moiety. Illustrative examples of amphoteric surfactants suitable for use include sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, sodium lauroamphoacetate, sodium cocoamphoacetate, or mixtures thereof.

[0088] As for the zwitterionic surfactants that can be used in the detergent compositions of the present invention, such surfactants include at least one acid group. Such acid groups can be carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid groups. They usually include quaternary nitrogen and can therefore be quaternary amino acids. They should usually contain alkyl or alkenyl groups of 7 to 18 carbon atoms, which usually conform to the following overall structural formula:

[0089] R 6 -[-C(O)-NH(CH2) q -] r -N + -(R 7 -)(R 8 )AB, where R 6 is an alkyl or alkenyl group of 7 to 18 carbon atoms; R 7 and R 8 Each is independently an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or carboxyalkyl group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms; q is 2 to 4; r is 0 to 1; A is an alkylene group of 1 to 3 carbon atoms optionally substituted by a hydroxy group, and B is -CO2- or -SO3-.

[0090] Suitable zwitterionic surfactants useful herein and within the above general formula include simple betaines of the formula:

[0091] R 6 -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )CH2CO2 -

[0092] and amido betaines of the formula:

[0093] R 6 -CONH(CH2) t -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )CH2CO2 - , where t is 2 or 3.

[0094] In both formulas, R 6 , R 7 and R 8 As defined above. In particular, R 6 Can be C derived from coconut oil 12 and C 14 mixture of alkyl groups such that at least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the R 6 The group has 10 to 14 carbon atoms. 7 and R 8 Preferred is methyl.

[0095] Another possibility is that the zwitterionic surfactant is a sulfobetaine of the formula:

[0096] R 6 --N + --(R 7 )(R 8 )(CH2)3SO3 -

[0097] or

[0098] R 6 -CONH(CH2) u -N + -(R 7 )(R 8 )(CH2)3SO3 -

[0099] Where u is 2 or 3, or where --(CH2)3SO3 - - CH2C(OH)(H)CH2SO3 - Alternative variants of these.

[0100] In these formulas, R 6 , R 7 and R 8 As defined above.

[0101] Illustrative examples of zwitterionic surfactants suitable for use include betaines, such as cocodimethyl carboxymethyl betaine, cocoamidopropyl betaine, and laurylamidopropyl betaine. Additional zwitterionic surfactants suitable for use include cocoamidopropyl hydroxysulfonyl betaine. Such surfactants are commercially available from suppliers such as Stepan Company, and it is within the scope of the present invention to use mixtures of the above surfactants. In a preferred embodiment, the zwitterionic surfactant used in the detergent composition of the present invention is cocoamidopropyl betaine.

[0102] Nonionic surfactants can be used in the cleaning compositions of the present invention. When used, nonionic surfactants are generally used in amounts as low as 0.01 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 1 wt%, 1.5 wt%, 2 wt%, 3 wt%, or 4 wt% by weight of the cleaning composition. The nonionic surfactants that can be used include, in particular, the reaction products of compounds having hydrophobic groups and reactive hydrogen atoms (e.g., aliphatic alcohols, acids, amides, or alkylphenols) and alkylene oxides (particularly ethylene oxide alone or with propylene oxide). Specific nonionic surfactant compounds are alkyl (C6-C 22 )phenol ethylene oxide condensate, aliphatic (C8-C18 ) condensation products of primary or secondary linear or branched alcohols with ethylene oxide, and products prepared by the condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction product of propylene oxide and ethylenediamine. Other nonionic surfactants include long chain tertiary amine oxides, long chain tertiary phosphine oxides, dialkyl sulfoxides, and the like. Cocamide monoethanolamine (MEA) is a generally preferred nonionic surfactant, which is suitable for use at a level of 0.2 to 0.65 wt% based on the weight of the cleaning composition.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, the optional nonionic surfactant may include a fatty acid / alcohol ethoxylate having the following structure: a) HOCH2(CH2) s (CH2CH2O) v H or b) HOOC(CH2) c (CH2CH2O) d H; wherein s and v are each independently an integer up to 18; and c and d are each independently an integer of 1 or greater. In one embodiment of the present invention, s and v are each independently 6 to 18; c and d are each independently 1 to 30. Other options for nonionic surfactants include those having the formula HOOC(CH2) i -CH=CH-(CH2) k (CH2CH2O) z H, wherein i, k are each independently 5 to 15; and z is 5 to 50. In another embodiment of the present invention, i and k are each independently 6 to 12; and z is 15 to 35.

[0104] The nonionic surfactant may also include sugar amides, such as polysaccharide amides. Specifically, the surfactant may be one of the lactose amides described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,389,279, entitled "Compositions Comprising Nonionic Glycolipid Surfactants" to Au et al., issued February 14, 1995; incorporated herein by reference, or may be one of the sugar amides described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,009,814, entitled "Use of N-Poly Hydroxyalkyl Fatty Acid Amides as Thickening Agents for Liquid Aqueous Surfactant Systems" to Kelkenberg, issued April 23, 1991; incorporated herein by reference.

[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, cationic surfactants may optionally be used in the cleaning compositions herein.

[0106] One class of cationic surfactants which may be present optionally includes heterocyclic ammonium salts such as cetyl or stearyl pyridinium chloride, alkylamidoethyl pyrrylinodium methylsulfate and lapyrium chloride.

[0107] Tetraalkylammonium salts are another class of useful cationic surfactants suitable for optional use. Examples include cetyl or stearyl trimethyl ammonium chloride or bromide; hydrogenated palm or tallow trimethyl ammonium halide; behenyl trimethyl ammonium halide or methyl sulfate salt; decyl isononyl dimethyl ammonium halide; ditallow (or distearyl) dimethyl ammonium halide, and behenyl dimethyl ammonium chloride.

[0108] Still other types of cationic surfactants that can be used are the various ethoxylated quaternary amines and ester quats. Examples include PEG-5 stearyl ammonium lactate (e.g., Genamin KSL manufactured by Clariant), PEG-2 cocoyl ammonium chloride, PEG-15 hydrogenated tallow ammonium chloride, PEG 15 stearyl ammonium chloride, dipalmitoyl ethyl methyl ammonium chloride, dipalmitoyl hydroxyethyl methyl sulfate, and stearamidopropyl dimethylamine lactylate.

[0109] Still other useful cationic surfactants suitable for optional use include quaternized hydrolysates of silk protein, wheat protein and keratin, and it is within the scope of the present invention to use mixtures of the foregoing cationic surfactants.

[0110] If used, cationic surfactants will comprise no more than 1.0 wt% of the cleaning composition. When present, they typically comprise from 0.01 to 0.7 wt%, more typically from 0.1 to 0.5 wt% of the cleaning composition.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the washing composition will contain less than 0.18% of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds (including their salts). In another embodiment, the washing composition will contain less than 0.1 wt% of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds. In yet another embodiment, the washing composition contains less than 0.01 wt% of polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds. In even another embodiment, the washing composition contains no polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds (i.e., 0.0%).

[0112] The compositions are substantially free of fatty acid soaps, although undesirable fatty acid soaps, such as sodium stearate, may be included in the compositions.

[0113] Furthermore, the cleaning compositions of the present invention as defined herein are substantially free of soaps, sulfates (e.g., isethionates as surfactants), mercaptans and / or synthetic thickeners such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, alkyl acrylate crosspolymers, etc. The cleaning compositions are also substantially free of glutamates and glycinates as surfactants, and sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate and pareth sulfate.

[0114] As for the amount of surfactant of the composition, the composition has 3.0 to 16 wt%, preferably 4 to 14 wt%, most preferably 4.5 to 12 wt% (or 4.5 to 9.5 wt%, or 4.6 to 8.75 wt%, or 4.75 to 7.5 wt%) of total surfactant, and the total surfactant comprises 20 to 99.5 wt%, preferably 30 to 95 wt%, most preferably 50 to 85 wt% (or 55 to 80 wt%, or 60 to 75 wt%) of anionic surfactant based on the total weight of anionic, zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition. In even another embodiment, the weight ratio of anionic surfactant (preferably sodium methyl lauroyl taurate) to zwitterionic surfactant (preferably cocoamidopropyl betaine) is 1:1 to 1:2.2, preferably 1:1.2 to 1:2.1, most preferably 1:1.5:1.35 to 1:1.85. Typically 8 to 38 times, preferably 9 to 35 times, most preferably 10 to 32 times more starch is used compared to cellulose, or gums, or a combination of cellulose and gums.

[0115] Water typically comprises from 62 to 95 wt %, preferably from 65 to 90 wt %, most preferably from 65 to 80 wt % of the cleaning composition.

[0116] Optionally, a pH adjuster suitable for changing / buffering the pH may be included. Such pH adjusters include triethylamine, NaOH, KOH, H2SO4, HCl, C6H8O7 (i.e., citric acid), or mixtures thereof. The pH adjuster is added in an amount to produce the desired final pH value, typically 0 to 3.5 wt % based on the weight of the composition. The pH value can be measured using commercial instruments such as those provided by Thermo Such pH values ​​of the cleaning compositions are typically 4.25 or less, preferably 3.4 to 4.2, most preferably 3.65 to 4.15 (or 3.7 to 4.1 or 3.7 to 4 or 3.75 to 3.9).

[0117] The polyols suitable for use in the cleaning compositions are limited to the extent that they can be used in the cleaning compositions for topical application. The exemplary and non-limiting examples of the polyols suitable for use in the present invention include sorbitol, glycerol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol or their mixture. In one embodiment of the invention, based on the gross weight of the polyols used in the cleaning compositions, the polyols used are generally at least 50wt% glycerol. In another embodiment of the invention, the polyols used are all glycerol (100wt%). Polyols would typically account for 0.0 to 25wt% of the cleaning compositions, preferably 0.5 to 8wt% of the cleaning compositions, most preferably 0.75 to 3.5wt% of the cleaning compositions.

[0118] Although not required, it is also within the scope of the present invention to optionally use conventional gelling agents or thickening agents such as ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, alkyl acrylate cross-linked polymers, and the like in addition to the present invention's mixtures of thickeners with starch and cellulose. If used, the acrylates include acrylic acid cross-linked with allyl sucrose or allyl pentaerythritol acrylic acid, and C 60 cross-linked with allyl pentaerythritol. 10 -C 30 These acrylates are and Other suitable acrylates include those formed as copolymers of an ester of acrylic acid and ethoxylated palmityl alcohol with about 25 moles of ethylene oxide and one or more monomers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or one of their simple esters. These acrylates are sold, for example, as (i.e., W200, W2000) and are commercially available from suppliers such as 3V Sigma USA. When used, such optional thickeners will comprise less than 0.2 wt %, preferably less than 0.1 wt %, and most preferably less than 0.05 wt % of the composition. Moreover, even more preferably, no (0.0%) thickener is used other than starch and cellulose as described herein.

[0119] The viscosity of the detergent composition (at 4s -1 The molecular weight (measured at 4000 rpm for 20 seconds) is typically 40,000 cps or less, preferably 700 to 15,000 cps, and most preferably 2000 to 13,500 cps.

[0120] Optional skin benefit agents are suitable for use in the cleansing composition only to the extent that they can be topically applied and are suitable for remaining stable in the cleansing composition at the desired pH.

[0121] Illustrative examples of benefit agents suitable for inclusion in the water portion of the detergent composition are acids, such as amino acids, such as arginine, valine or histidine. Additional water-soluble benefit agents suitable for use include vitamin B2, niacinamide (vitamin B3), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, vitamin C, mixtures thereof, and the like. Water-soluble derivatives of such vitamins may also be used. For example, vitamin C derivatives such as ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbyl glycosides may be used alone or in combination with one another. Other water-soluble benefit agents suitable for use include 4-ethylresorcinol, extracts such as sage, aloe, green tea, grape seed, thyme, chamomile, yarrow, cucumber, licorice, rosemary extracts or mixtures thereof. Water-soluble sunscreens such as ensulizole may also be used. When present in the cleaning composition, the total amount of optional water-soluble benefit agents (including mixtures) may be in the range of 0.0 to 10 wt%, preferably 0.001 to 8 wt%, most preferably 0.01 to 6 wt% (or 0.01 to 2 wt%) based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0122] It is also within the scope of the present invention to optionally include oil-soluble benefit agents. Such oil-soluble active substances or benefit agents can be dissolved in the surfactant used. The only limitation for such oil-soluble benefit agents is that they are suitable for providing a beneficial effect when applied topically.

[0123] Illustrative examples of the types of oil-soluble benefit agents that may optionally be used in the compositions of the present invention include ingredients such as stearic acid, vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K (and their oil-soluble derivatives), sunscreens such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, di-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenol triazine, 2-ethylhexyl-2-cyano-3,3-diphenyl-2-propionic acid, drometrizole trisiloxane, 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexyl 2-hydroxybenzoate, 2-ethylhexyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, or mixtures thereof.

[0124] Other optional oil-soluble benefit agents suitable for use include resorcinols, such as 4-hexylresorcinol, 4-phenylethylresorcinol, 4-cyclopentylresorcinol, 4-cyclohexylresorcinol, 4-isopropylresorcinol, thiamidol (isobutylamidothiazolylresorcinol), or mixtures thereof. In addition, 5-substituted resorcinols, such as 4-cyclohexyl-5-methylbenzene-1,3-diol, 4-isopropyl-5-methylbenzene-1,3-diol, mixtures thereof, etc., can be used. The 5-substituted resorcinols and their synthesis are described in the commonly assigned U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2016 / 0000669A1.

[0125] Even other oil-soluble actives suitable for use include omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, climbazole, farnesol, ursolic acid, myristic acid, geranylgeraniol, oleyl betaine, cocoyl hydroxyethyl imidazoline, caproyl sphingosine, 12-hydroxystearic acid, petroselinic acid, conjugated linoleic acid, terpineol, thymol, mixtures thereof, and the like.

[0126] In one embodiment of the present invention, the optional oil-soluble beneficial agent used is a retinoic acid precursor. In one embodiment of the present invention, the retinoic acid precursor is retinol, retinal, retinyl propionate, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate or a mixture thereof. Retinyl propionate, retinyl palmitate and a mixture thereof are generally preferred.

[0127] When the optional oil-soluble active or benefit agent is used in the composition, such active materials generally account for 0.0001 to 1.5 wt %, preferably 0.001 to 0.65 wt %, most preferably 0.05 to 0.35 wt % of the washing composition. In another embodiment, the oil-soluble benefit agent accounts for 0.1 to 0.5 wt % of the total weight of the washing composition.

[0128] Other optional additives suitable for use include zinc pyrithione, octopirox and mixtures thereof.When used, they are generally used in amounts of from 0.001 to 1.5 wt%, preferably from 0.01 to 1 wt%, based on the detergent composition.

[0129] Conventional preservatives can be added to the washing composition ideally to prevent the growth of potentially harmful microorganisms. Cosmetic chemists are familiar with suitable preservatives, and routinely select them to meet preservative challenge tests and provide product stability. Suitable traditional preservatives include hydantoin derivatives and propionates. Particularly preferred preservatives are iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, phenoxyethanol, hydroxyacetophenone, ethylhexylglycerol, hexylene glycol, methylparaben, propylparaben, imidazolidinyl urea, sodium dehydroacetate, dimethyl-dimethyl (DMDM) hydantoin, sodium benzoate, benzyl alcohol and their mixtures. Other preservatives suitable for use include sodium dehydroacetate, chlorphenesin, decanediol, N-capryloyl glycine, N-undecylenoyl glycine and their mixtures. The selection of the preservative should consider the possible incompatibility between the purposes of the composition and the preservative and other ingredients in the composition. The preservative is preferably used in an amount ranging from 0.01 to 2.0 wt% based on the total weight of the washing composition. A preservative system comprising 0.1 to 1.0% 1,2-octanediol (i.e., conventional glycol emollients, etc.) based on the total weight of the washing composition is suitable for use. A preservative system substantially free of parabens and hydantoins is preferred. Sodium benzoate is generally the most preferred preservative and is generally used in an amount of 0.35 to 2.65 wt%, or 2.0 to 1.45 wt%, based on the washing composition.

[0130] Fragrances, fixatives, chelating agents (e.g. EDTA), sunscreens (e.g. titanium dioxide and plant-derived liquid dispersions such as those commercially available from Solvay OPR 2), inorganic substances and exfoliants may optionally be included in the cleaning composition. Each of these substances may be from about 0.03 to about 5 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 3 wt %, most preferably 0.1 to 2 wt %, based on the weight of the cleaning composition. To the extent that exfoliants are used, those selected should have a sufficiently small particle size so that they do not interfere with the performance of any packaging for dispensing the composition of the present invention. Conventional antimicrobial agents, such as benzalkonium chloride and / or benzethonium chloride, salicylic acid, cetrimonium chloride are also suitable for use, typically in an amount of 0.01 to 1 wt %, preferably 0.05 to 0.6 wt %, most preferably 0.1 to 5 wt %, based on the weight of the composition.

[0131] Conventional emulsifiers having an HLB greater than 8 may optionally be used. Illustrative examples include Tween 40, 60, 80, polysorbate 20 and mixtures thereof. Such emulsifiers, when used in a water continuous system, comprise 0.03 to 1.5 wt % of the cleaning composition.

[0132] With regard to silicones such as polydimethylsiloxane, the cleaning composition will typically contain less than 1.0 wt% of silicone, more preferably less than 0.5 wt% of silicone, and most preferably no silicone. In one embodiment of the present invention, less than 0.5%, or less than 0.25%, or less than 0.1% or no (0.0%) decamethylcyclopentasiloxane is used in the cleaning composition.

[0133] The cleaning compositions of the present invention are preferably liquid cleaning compositions suitable for being in the isotropic or lamellar phase.

[0134] When lamellar, the compositions of the invention employ from 0.1 to 20 wt%, preferably from 1 to 10 wt%, most preferably from 2 to 5 wt% of a lamellar structurant (based on the total weight of the liquid detergent composition) which acts to form a lamellar phase in the composition.

[0135] Examples of fatty acids (or ester derivatives, or fatty alcohols, or trihydroxystearin) that can be used as structurants are C8-C 22 Fatty acids, such as caprylic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, isostearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, ricinoleic acid, elaidic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid and palmitoleic acid, mixtures thereof, etc. Ester derivatives include propylene glycol isostearate, propylene glycol oleate, glyceryl isostearate, glyceryl oleate and polyglyceryl diisostearate, etc. The structurant is preferably a fatty acid. More preferably, the structurant is selected from caprylic acid, lauric acid, myristic acid or mixtures thereof.

[0136] When preparing the detergent compositions of the present invention, the requisite ingredients may be mixed using conventional equipment under moderate shear and atmospheric conditions wherein the temperature may range from 30 to 85°C whereby shearing is continued until a homogeneous product is recovered.

[0137] The packaging of the cleaning composition is generally not limited, as long as the composition can be dispensed. In one embodiment of the invention, the cleaning composition is sold in a sachet, bottle, can, tube or cartridge. The packaging preferably allows unlimited refilling to consistently reduce plastic waste in the environment, and most preferably has at least 50 wt% of post-consumer resin. The cleaning composition of the present invention can be sold in a concentrated form, whereby the consumer can be instructed to add water to produce a ready-to-use product, and attempts to reduce weight and over-reliance on virgin plastics when shipped.

[0138] The examples are provided to facilitate the understanding of the present invention. They are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0139] Example

[0140] All samples in the examples were prepared by mixing the ingredients under moderate shear. The temperature varied from about 60°C to 78°C, and the pressure during mixing was atmospheric pressure. The starch used in the samples was StarDesign commercially available from Cargill. TM Care, the cellulose used was commercially provided by JRS Pharma GmbH & Co. COS6, while the gum used was xanthan gum or carrageenan. The hydroxypropyl starch phosphate used was Puregel B990 available from Grain Processing Corporation.

[0141] Embodiment 1

[0142] A base detergent composition was prepared with the ingredients identified below: Starch, cellulose and / or gum was added to the base composition as described in the samples of Example II.

[0143] The cleaning composition has a pH value of 3.5 to 4.2. The ingredients are added based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0144] Table I

[0145]

[0146] *Add salt to neutralize about 90% of detergent

[0147] **Example II as identified in Example II

[0148] A complete cleaning composition, Example I, Table I (Sample 1), was prepared with a biodegradable thickener (added in weight percent based on the total weight of each thickener described in Table II).

[0149] Table II

[0150]

[0151] Such Sample I from Example I was prepared with the thickener described in Example II. The compositions prepared according to the present invention were surprisingly stable in that no malodor, syneresis or discoloration was observed after storage for at least two (2) weeks at 50°C and for 1 to 4 months at 45°C. The cleaning compositions prepared according to the present invention were evaluated by a trained expert panelist and such compositions were easily rinsed off to give a clean and film-free sensory feel and did not leave a sticky or tacky residual feel. Particularly surprisingly, the expert panelist concluded that the composition (in the acidic pH range) was mild and non-irritating to the skin (not skin sensitizing), even when washed with warm / hot water (about 48°C).

[0152] Example III

[0153] A complete cleaning composition of Example I, Table I (Sample 2) was prepared with a biodegradable thickener (added in weight percent based on the total weight of each thickener described in Table II).

[0154] Table III

[0155] Starch diphosphate Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate Cellulose stability 4.0 - 0.3 Stablize - 4.0 0.15 Stablize - 4.75 0.15 Stablize

[0156] The data in this example surprisingly demonstrates that compositions according to the invention can be prepared using either starch diphosphate (ie, cross-linked) or hydroxypropyl starch phosphate (non-cross-linked) in combination with cellulose.

[0157] The compositions prepared according to the present invention are surprisingly stable in that no malodor, syneresis or discoloration was observed after storage for at least two (2) weeks at 50°C and for 1 to 4 months at 45°C. The cleaning compositions prepared according to the present invention were evaluated by a trained expert panelist and such compositions were easily rinsed off to give a clean and film-free sensory feel and did not leave a sticky or tacky residual feel. Particularly surprisingly, the panelists concluded that the compositions (in the acidic pH range) were mild and non-irritating to the skin (not skin sensitizing), even when washed with warm / hot water (about 48°C).

[0158] Example IV

[0159] A complete cleaning composition of Example I, Table I (Sample 3) was prepared with a biodegradable thickener (added in weight percent based on the total weight of each thickener described in Table III).

[0160] Table IV

[0161] Starch diphosphate Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate Cellulose stability 4.0 - 0.3 Stablize - 4.0 0.15 Stablize - 4.75 0.15 Stablize - 3.3 0.15 Stablize - 2.5 0.15 Stablize - 2.0 0.15 Stablize

[0162] The data obtained in this Example IV are identical to those described in Example III and they demonstrate that stable detergent compositions can be obtained using starch diphosphate (cross-linked starches) and hydroxypropyl starch phosphate (non-cross-linked starches) in combination with cellulose when prepared according to the present invention.

Claims

1. A cleaning composition comprising: a) anionic surfactants; b) amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, or both; c) 0 to 4 wt% of a nonionic surfactant; and d) 1.5 to 9.5 wt% of a thickener, said thickener comprising greater than 50 wt% starch, preferably at least 70 wt% starch, most preferably at least 75 wt% (or 80 to 92 wt%, or 82 to 90 wt%, or 83 to 88 wt%) starch, based on the total weight of the thickener, provided that the thickener additionally comprises gums, cellulose or both, and wherein the gums constitute 0.05 to 0.125 wt%, preferably 0.06 to 0.115 wt%, most preferably 0.075 to 0.110 wt% (or 0.8 to 0.105 wt%) of the composition, and the cellulose constitutes 0.2 to 2.0 wt%, preferably 0.25 to 1.65 wt%, preferably 0.275 to 1.6 wt% (or 0.28 to 0.8 wt%) of the composition, wherein the thickener is substantially free of synthetic thickeners, and the detergent composition has a pH of 4.25 or less, preferably 3.4 to 4.2, most preferably 3.65 to 4.15 (or 3.7 to 4.1, or 3.7 to 4, or 3.75 to 3.9), and: e) the composition has 3.0 to 16 wt%, preferably 4 to 14 wt%, most preferably 4.5 to 12 wt% total surfactants; and f) the total surfactants comprise 20 to 99.5 wt%, preferably 30 to 95 wt%, most preferably 50 to 85 wt% (or 55 to 80 wt%, or 60 to 75 wt%) anionic surfactants, based on the total weight of anionic, zwitterionic and / or amphoteric surfactants in the composition, the composition being substantially free of soap, parabens, formaldehyde donors, mercaptans, sulfates and / or isethionates.

2. A cleaning composition according to claim 1 wherein the anionic surfactant comprises taurate and the zwitterionic surfactant is present and comprises betaine.

3. The cleaning composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition is a household care composition, a hand wash, a body wash or a face wash.

4. A cleaning composition according to claim 3, wherein the composition is a hand wash composition.

5. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition additionally comprises 12-hydroxystearic acid, terpineol, thymol, peptimedol or mixtures thereof.

6. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is substantially free of synthetic thickeners, silicones, hydantoins, parabens, sulfates, and isethionates as surfactants.

7. The cleaning composition according to claim 6, wherein the synthetic thickener is ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymer, alkyl acrylate cross-linked polymer or a mixture thereof.

8. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the anionic surfactant is sodium methyl lauroyl taurate and the zwitterionic surfactant is cocamidopropyl betaine.

9. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The biodegradable thickener has 8 to 38 times, preferably 9 to 35 times, most preferably 10 to 32 times more starch than cellulose, or gums, or a combination of cellulose and gums.

10. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims wherein water comprises from 62 to 95 wt% of the cleaning composition.

11. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition additionally comprises a water-soluble active or an oil-soluble active or both.

12. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning composition comprises 4-ethylresorcinol, 4-hexylresorcinol, nicotinamide, benzalkonium chloride or mixtures thereof.

13. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition does not comprise sulphates, silicones, parabens, isethionates as surfactants, mercaptans and does not comprise sodium benzoate.

14. A cleaning composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises zinc pyrithione, octopirox or mixtures thereof.

15. A detergent composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cellulose is microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose or mixtures thereof, and the starch is hydroxypropyl starch, distarch phosphate or mixtures thereof, and the gum is carrageenan, xanthan gum or mixtures thereof.

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