Laundry detergents and unit dose articles with reduced residue

Abstract

A laundry detergent composition comprising a particulate material is provided. The particulate material can include one or more particles having an active component and an inactive component. The inactive component can have a dry particle size of about 0.01 [mu] m to about 20 [mu] m. A unit dose article can include a water soluble fibrous structure and the laundry detergent composition or at least the particulate material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to laundry detergents and unit dose articles, and more particularly to laundry detergents and unit dose articles that exhibit reduced residue deposition on fabrics. Background Art

[0002] Some detergent formulations, while effective at removing stains, can introduce an undesirable buildup of residue on washed items, compromising appearance, fabric softness, and user comfort. This problem has become increasingly apparent as consumer expectations have evolved to demand not only excellent cleaning efficacy but also a residue-free post-wash appearance and feel. The challenge lies in developing detergent compositions and convenient formats for delivering those detergent compositions that excel in stain removal while mitigating the tendency to leave unwanted residue on fabrics. Addressing this issue is crucial to meeting the growing preference for environmentally friendly and fabric-safe laundry solutions, consistent with the evolving standards of modern consumers.

[0003] The discussion of shortcomings and needs in the art prior to the present disclosure is in no way an admission that those skilled in the art recognized such shortcomings and needs prior to the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Various iterations have addressed the above problems and provided compositions, articles and methods useful for providing detergent compositions and convenient forms for delivering those detergent compositions that excel in stain removal while reducing the tendency to leave undesirable residues on fabrics.

[0005] Various iterations relate to laundry detergent compositions comprising a particulate material. The particulate material may comprise at least one particle. The at least one particle may comprise an active ingredient and an inactive ingredient. The inactive ingredient may have a dry particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 20 μm. The inactive ingredient may be only partially water-soluble. Various iterations relate to unit dose articles comprising a water-soluble fibrous structure and a laundry detergent composition or at least the particulate material.

[0006] Various repetitions relate to unit dose products comprising a water-soluble fiber structure having a plurality of layers and a plurality of particles dispersed between the plurality of layers. One, more than one, or each of the plurality of particles may contain an active ingredient and an inactive ingredient. When exposed to water at a temperature of 5°C to 40°C, preferably about 10°C to about 25°C, for a period of about 5 minutes to about 60 minutes, preferably about 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, at least about 50% to about 100%, preferably about 70% to 90% of the plurality of particles can release at least some of the active ingredients contained therein and have a particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm.

[0007] These and other features, aspects and advantages of various iterations will become better understood with reference to the following description, drawings and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings, which illustrate examples according to various repetitions.

[0009] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of an example of a multi-layer fiber structure.

[0010] Figure 2 is a micro-CT scan image showing a cross-sectional view of an example of a water-soluble unit dose article.

[0011] Figure 3 A method for preparing a ply of material.

[0012] Figure 4 A perspective view of a repeat of a single-dose laundry detergent unit embodying the new design.

[0013] Figure 5 Schematic top view of a piece of test fabric with residue deposited thereon.

[0014] Figure 6A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0015] Figure 6B is a photograph of the first replica of C70 black fabric after exposure to composition 1 at 10°C.

[0016] Figure 6C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 10°C.

[0017] Figure 6D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 10°C.

[0018] Figure 7A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0019] Figure 7B is a photograph of the first replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 10°C.

[0020] Figure 7C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 10°C.

[0021] Figure 7D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 10°C.

[0022] Figure 8A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0023] Figure 8B is a photograph of the first replica of C70 black fabric after exposure to composition 3 at 10°C.

[0024] Figure 8C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 10°C.

[0025] Figure 8D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 10°C.

[0026] Figure 9A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0027] Figure 9B is a photograph of the first replica of C70 black fabric after exposure to composition 4 at 10°C.

[0028] Figure 9C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 10°C.

[0029] Figure 9D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 10°C.

[0030] Figure 10A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0031] Figure 10B is a photograph of the first replica of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 25°C.

[0032] Figure 10C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 25°C.

[0033] Figure 10D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 25°C.

[0034] Figure 11A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0035] Figure 11B is a photograph of the first replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 25°C.

[0036] Figure 11Cis a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 25°C.

[0037] Figure 11D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 25°C.

[0038] Figure 12A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0039] Figure 12B is a photograph of the first replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 25°C.

[0040] Figure 12C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 25°C.

[0041] Figure 12D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 25°C.

[0042] Figure 13A is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric.

[0043] Figure 13B is a photograph of the first replica of C70 black fabric after exposure to composition 4 at 25°C.

[0044] Figure 13C is a photograph of a second replica of the C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 25°C.

[0045] Figure 13D is a photograph of the third replicate of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 25°C.

[0046] Figure 14A are photographs of first, second and third replicas of technical black cotton fabric after exposure to zeolite having a dry particle size of 4 μm.

[0047] Figure 14B are photographs of first, second and third replicas of technical black cotton fabric after exposure to precipitated calcium carbonate having a dry particle size of 7 μm.

[0048] Figure 14C are photographs of first, second, and third replicas of technical black cotton fabric after exposure to magnesium carbonate (MgCO 3 ) having a dry particle size of 15 μm.

[0049] Figure 14Dare photographs of first, second, and third replicas of technical black cotton fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 20 μm.

[0050] Figure 14E are photographs of first, second, and third replicas of technical black cotton fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 50 μm.

[0051] Figure 15A are photographs of first, second, and third replicates of consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to zeolite having a dry particle size of 4 μm.

[0052] Figure 15B are photographs of first, second, and third replicates of consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to precipitated calcium carbonate having a dry particle size of 7 μm.

[0053] Figure 15C are photographs of first, second, and third replicates of consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) having a dry particle size of 15 μm.

[0054] Figure 15D are photographs of first, second, and third replicates of consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 20 μm.

[0055] Figure 15E are photographs of first, second, and third replicates of consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 50 μm.

[0056] It should be understood that the various repetitions are not limited to the examples shown in the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Introduction and Definitions

[0058] This disclosure is written to describe the present invention to those of ordinary skill in the art, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the disclosure is not limited to the specific examples or repetitions described. Examples and repetitions are single instances of the present invention, which will make the greater scope apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are not merely for the purpose of describing examples and repetitions, and are not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0059] Unless otherwise expressly stated, all features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstracts and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features for the same, equivalent or similar purposes. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, each feature disclosed is merely an example of a general series of equivalent or similar features. The examples and repetitions described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and those of ordinary skill in the art will propose various modifications or changes based on these examples and repetitions, and these modifications or changes will be included in the spirit and scope of this application. Many changes and modifications can be made to the repetitions of this disclosure without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure herein. For example, unless otherwise indicated, this disclosure is not limited to specific materials, reagents, reaction materials, manufacturing processes, etc., as they may vary. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of a specific repetition and are not intended to be limiting. It is also possible in this disclosure that the steps can be performed in different orders that are logically possible.

[0060] All numerical values herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about," whether or not explicitly stated. The term "about" generally refers to a range of values that one skilled in the art would consider equivalent to the stated value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "about" may include values that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0061] In everyday usage, indefinite articles (such as "a") precede countable nouns, and uncountable nouns almost never take indefinite articles. Therefore, it must be noted that, as used in this specification and the claims that follow, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a carrier" includes a plurality of carriers. In particular, when a singular countable noun is listed as an element in a claim, this specification will typically use phrases such as "single." For example, "a single carrier."

[0062] Unless otherwise indicated, all percentages indicating the amount of a component in a composition represent the percentage by weight of the component based on the total weight of the composition.

[0063] Where a numerical range is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range, as well as any other stated or intervening value in the stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding one or both of those included limits are also encompassed within the disclosure.

[0064] Throughout this specification and the claims that follow, reference will be made to a number of terms that are defined to have the following meanings, unless a contrary intention is apparent.

[0065] An "active ingredient" is the specific component or chemical substance in a preparation or product that is responsible for producing the intended functional effect.

[0066] "Inactive ingredients" are other ingredients or substances present in a preparation or product that do not constitute the principal active ingredient responsible for producing the intended functional effect.

[0067] "Particle size" can refer to the size of a single particle or the size of multiple particles (e.g., a cluster of particles). The particle size of a spherical object can be clearly and quantitatively defined by its diameter. However, typical material objects may be irregularly shaped and non-spherical. There are several ways to extend the term "particle size" to apply to non-spherical particles. Existing definitions are based on replacing a given particle or cluster with an imaginary sphere having one of the same properties as the particle. Volume-based particle size is equal to the diameter of a sphere with the same volume as the given particle. Area-based particle size is equal to the diameter of a sphere with the same surface area as the given particle or cluster. Weight-based particle size is equal to the diameter of a sphere with the same weight as the given particle or cluster. Hydrodynamic or aerodynamic particle size is equal to the diameter of a sphere with the same drag coefficient as the given particle or cluster.

[0068] The plurality of particles may have a particle size distribution. D50 and D100 are commonly used parameters in particle size distribution analysis to describe the median and maximum particle sizes, respectively. D50 represents the particle size at which 50% of the cumulative mass of the particles is smaller, while D100 is the size at which less than 100% of the cumulative mass of the particles are contained. D50 serves as the midpoint of the particle size distribution, representing the size in the middle of the distribution when the particles are arranged in ascending order. In contrast, D100 represents the maximum size of the particles in the distribution where the cumulative distribution curve reaches 100%. The particles described herein may have a particle size distribution such that D50 is greater than about 150 microns and less than about 1700 microns.

[0069] The "dry particle size" of a material refers to the size of individual particles, aggregates or agglomerates of the material when measured under conditions of low ambient relative humidity, particularly at ambient temperature, wherein the ambient relative humidity is maintained at a level of less than 15%. This measurement is performed to prevent or minimize any moisture-induced changes in the size, structure or properties of the particles, thereby ensuring that the size measurement accurately represents the material characteristics in the low humidity environment. Dry particle size can be determined using suitable techniques and instrumentation, such as laser diffraction, dynamic light scattering or similar methods appropriate for the material under consideration. Dry particle size measurements provide valuable information for a variety of applications, including but not limited to the pharmaceutical, chemical and materials industries, where maintaining low humidity conditions is critical to preserving the integrity and performance of the material.

[0070] The "average dry particle size" of a material is the average size of individual particles, aggregates, or agglomerates of the material when measured at ambient temperature under low ambient relative humidity (less than 15%) as defined by the method for "dry particle size." This measurement is critical for a variety of applications, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and materials, where maintaining low humidity conditions is essential to preserve material integrity and performance.

[0071] "Water-insoluble" refers to substances or materials that do not effectively dissolve or disperse in water under ordinary conditions. When a material is labeled "water-insoluble," it means that it exhibits limited or negligible solubility in water and that any attempt to dissolve it in water results in only minimal or undetectable changes in its physical state or chemical composition.

[0072] "At least partially water-insoluble" refers to a substance or material that, while not completely water-insoluble, has limited or restricted solubility in water under ordinary conditions. Unlike completely water-insoluble materials, those materials described as "at least partially water-insoluble" may exhibit some degree of solubility or dispersibility in water, but the degree of solubility is minimal, and they generally do not readily dissolve or disperse in water.

[0073] The "swelling index" is a numerical value that indicates the ability of a particle to swell. The swelling index can be calculated by dividing the volume or weight of the swollen particle after immersion in water for a time (seconds) at a temperature (T) (°C) by the initial volume of the dry particle. The swelling index is a dimensionless number.

[0074]

[0075] "Swelling index adjusted particle size" is a quantitative measure that reflects the size of a single particle or the average size of a group of particles when they reach their maximum swelling capacity. The adjusted particle size is obtained by multiplying the particle size by the swelling index.

[0076] "Cellulose derivatives" are chemically modified compounds or materials derived from cellulose, a natural polysaccharide found in plant cell walls. Cellulose derivatives can be produced by altering the structure of cellulose through various chemical methods to impart specific properties or functions, such as improved solubility, increased flexibility, or enhanced compatibility with other materials. These modifications can produce a wide range of cellulose derivatives, and non-limiting examples include cellulose acetate, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), cellulose ethers (such as ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose), and nitrocellulose.

[0077] "Crystalline materials" are substances or solid structures characterized by the ordered and repeated arrangement of their constituent atoms, ions, or molecules in a three-dimensional lattice or framework. In crystalline materials, atoms or particles are positioned with a high degree of periodicity, resulting in the formation of distinct, well-defined crystal structures. These materials exhibit specific and repeatable geometric patterns, called lattices, which produce the material's unique physical and chemical properties, including well-defined melting points, regular cleavage planes, and optical properties, such as birefringence. In contrast to crystalline materials are amorphous materials, whose atomic arrangements lack long-range order. Crystalline materials can include a wide range of substances, including metals, minerals, and various organic and inorganic compounds.

[0078] "Water-soluble unit dose product," "water-soluble fibrous structure," and "water-soluble fibrous element" mean that the unit dose product, fibrous structure, and fibrous element are miscible with water. In other words, the unit dose product, fibrous structure, or fibrous element is capable of forming a homogeneous solution with water under ambient conditions.

[0079] As used herein, "ambient conditions" means 23°C ± 1.0°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity. Water-soluble unit dose preparations may contain insoluble materials that are dispersible into suspensions under aqueous wash conditions with an average particle size of less than about 20 microns, or less than about 50 microns.

[0080] Unit dose products

[0081] The unit dose article may comprise a water-soluble matrix and a particulate material. The water-soluble matrix may be, for example, a fibrous matrix, a nonwoven matrix, or a combination thereof. Examples of nonwoven matrices may include sheets. The nonwoven sheet may comprise a plurality of fibers. The fibers may be entangled to form a fibrous sheet.

[0082] The fibrous water-soluble unit dose articles according to various repetitions can dissolve under various wash conditions, such as low temperature, low water and / or one or more short wash cycles, where consumers have overloaded the machine, particularly with items with high water absorption capacity, while providing sufficient active agent delivery to achieve the desired effect on the target consumer substrate (with performance similar to that of current liquid products). In addition, the water-soluble unit dose articles described herein can be produced in an economical manner by spinning fibers containing the active agent. The water-soluble unit dose articles described herein also have improved cleaning performance.

[0083] laundry detergent

[0084] In addition to the fibrous structure of the unit dose article, any of the formulations described herein can also be delivered in the form of a laundry detergent formulation.

[0085] fiber structure

[0086] The fibrous structure comprises one or more fibrous elements. The fibrous elements may be associated with each other to form a structure. The fibrous structure may comprise one or more layers, which together form a ply. The fibrous structure may also be formed into compartments, such as pouches. The fibrous water-soluble unit dose product may be viewed hierarchically starting from the form in which the consumer interacts with the water-soluble product and working backward to the raw materials used to make the water-soluble product, such as plies, fibrous structures, and particles. The fibrous ply may be a fibrous structure. For example, Figure 1 A first ply 10 and a second ply 15 associated with the first ply 10 are shown, wherein the first ply 10 and the second ply 15 each include a plurality of fibrous elements 30, in this case filaments, and a plurality of particles 32. In the second ply 15, the particles 32 are randomly dispersed in the x, y, and z axes, and in the first ply, the particles 32 are in pockets. Figure 2 This is a microCT scan image showing a cross-sectional view of an example of a water-soluble unit dose article comprising three plies, each of which is formed from two layers: a fibrous element layer and a fibrous element / particle mixture layer. Each of the three plies includes a plurality of fibrous elements 30, in this case filaments, and a plurality of particles 32. The multi-ply article is sealed at edge 200 to prevent particle leakage. The outer surface of the article 202 is the fibrous element layer.

[0087] The fibrous water-soluble unit dose product may comprise one or more plies. The fibrous water-soluble unit dose product may comprise at least two and / or at least three and / or at least four and / or at least five plies. The fiber plies may be a fibrous structure. Each ply may comprise one or more layers, such as one or more fiber element layers, one or more particle layers, and / or one or more fiber element / particle mixture layers. The layers may be sealed. Specifically, the particle layer and the fiber element / particle mixture layer may be sealed so that the particles do not leak. The water-soluble unit dose product may comprise a plurality of plies, wherein each ply comprises two layers, one of which is a fiber element layer and the other is a fiber element / particle mixture layer, and the plurality of plies are sealed (e.g., at the edges) together. The seal may inhibit leakage of the particles and help the unit dose product maintain its original structure. However, after the water-soluble unit dose product is added to water, the unit dose product dissolves and releases the particles into the wash liquid.

[0088] The fibrous water-soluble unit dose article may exhibit a thickness of greater than 0.01 mm and / or greater than 0.05 mm and / or greater than 0.1 mm and / or to about 100 mm and / or to about 50 mm and / or to about 20 mm and / or to about 10 mm and / or to about 5 mm and / or to about 2 mm and / or to about 0.5 mm and / or to about 0.3 mm as measured by the Thickness Test Method described herein.

[0089] The fibrous water-soluble unit dose article may have a Basis Weight of about 500 grams / m2 as measured according to the Basis Weight test method described herein. 2 to about 5,000 g / m 2 , or about 1,000 g / m 2 About 4,000 g / m 2 , or about 1,500 g / m 2 About 3,500 g / m 2 , or about 2,000 g / m 2 About 3,000 g / m 2 In addition, the nonwoven sheet and / or fibrous structure may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m 2 About 60 g / m 2 , preferably about 20 g / m 2 About 55 g / m 2 , more preferably about 25 g / m 2 About 50 g / m 2 , most preferably about 25 g / m 2 About 45 g / m 2 basis weight.

[0090] Preparation method

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown in the diagram in, there is provided a solution of long filament formation composition 35.Long filament formation composition can comprise one or more long filaments and form material and optional one or more activating agents.Make long filament form composition 35 by one or more module assemblies 40 comprising a plurality of spinnerets 45, to form a plurality of fiber elements 30, these multiple fiber elements comprise one or more long filaments and form material and optional one or more activating agents.A plurality of module assemblies 40 can be used for the different layers of rotating fiber element 30, and the fiber element 30 of different layers has the composition different from each other or identical to each other.Two or more module assemblies in series can be provided, to form three, four or any other integer layers in a given ply.Fiber element 30 can be deposited on the belt 50 moving along machine direction MD to form the first ply 10.

[0092] Particles can be introduced into the flow of fiber elements 30 between the module assembly 40 and the belt 50. Particles can be fed from a particle receiver onto a belt feeder 41 or an optional screw feeder. The belt feeder 41 can be set and controlled to deliver the desired mass of particles to the process. The belt feeder can feed an air knife 42 that suspends the particles in the air stream and directs them into the fiber elements 30 to form a particle-fiber layer of the mixed fiber elements 30 and the particles are subsequently deposited on the belt 50.

[0093] To form a water-soluble product, a first layer 10 may be provided. A second layer 15 may be provided separately from the first layer 10. The first layer 10 and the second layer 15 are stacked one on top of another. Stacked means one is positioned above or below the other, with the understanding that additional layers or other materials, such as active agents, may be positioned between the stacked layers. A portion of the first layer 10 may be joined to a portion of the second layer 15 to form the water-soluble product 5. Each layer may include one or more layers.

[0094] Printing area

[0095] like Figure 4 As shown, the surface of the fibrous water-soluble unit dose article may include a printed area. The printed area may cover approximately 10% to approximately 100% of the surface of the article. The printed area may include ink, pigment, dye, bluing agent, or mixtures thereof. The printed area may be opaque, translucent, or transparent. The printed area may include a single color or multiple colors. The printed area may be on more than one side of the article and include instructional text and / or graphics. The surface of the water-soluble unit dose article may include an aversive agent, such as a bittering agent. Suitable bittering agents include, but are not limited to, naringin, sucrose octaacetate, quinine hydrochloride, denatonium benzoate, or mixtures thereof. Any suitable amount of the aversive agent may be used. Suitable amounts include, but are not limited to, 1 ppm to 5000 ppm, or even 100 ppm to 2500 ppm, or even 250 ppm to 2000 ppm.

[0096] Fiber components

[0097] The fibrous element may be water-soluble. The fibrous element may contain one or more filament-forming materials and / or one or more active agents, such as surfactants. The one or more active agents can be released from the fibrous element, such as when the fibrous element and / or the fibrous structure including the fibrous element is exposed to conditions of the intended use.

[0098] The fibrous elements of the present invention may be spun from a filament-forming composition (also referred to as a fibrous element-forming composition) via a suitable spinning process operation, such as meltblowing, spunbonding, electrospinning, and / or rotary spinning.

[0099] As used herein, "filament forming composition" and / or "fiber element forming composition" means a composition suitable for preparing the fiber element of the present invention, such as by meltblowing and / or spunbonding. The filament forming composition comprises one or more filament forming materials, which exhibit properties that make them suitable for spinning into fiber elements. The filament forming material may comprise a polymer. In addition to the one or more filament forming materials, the filament forming composition may also comprise one or more active agents, such as surfactants. In addition, the filament forming composition may comprise one or more polar solvents (such as water), and before spinning the fiber element (such as the filament from the filament forming composition), the one or more filament forming materials (e.g., all) and / or one or more active agents (e.g., all) in the filament forming material and / or the active agent are dissolved and / or dispersed therein.

[0100] Filament formation composition can comprise two or more different filament formation materials.Therefore, fiber element can be single component (a kind of long filament formation material) and / or multicomponent, such as bicomponent.Two or more different long filament formation materials are to be randomly combined to form fiber element.For the purpose of the present disclosure, can orderly combine two or more different long filament formation materials to form fiber element such as core-shell bicomponent fiber element, it is considered that different long filaments are not formed the random mixture of material.Bicomponent fiber element can be any form, such as side-by-side type, core-shell type, island type etc.

[0101] The fibrous elements may be substantially free of alkyl alkoxylated sulfates. Each fibrous element may contain from about 0%, or about 0.1%, or about 5%, or about 10%, or about 15%, or about 20%, or about 25%, or about 30%, or about 35%, or about 40% to about 0.2%, or to about 1%, or to about 5%, or to about 10%, or to about 15%, or to about 20%, or to about 25%, or to about 30%, or to about 35%, or to about 40%, or to about 50% alkyl alkoxylated sulfate, based on the weight of the dry fibrous element. The amount of alkyl alkoxylated sulfate per fibrous element is sufficiently small so as not to affect its processing stability and film dissolution. Alkyl alkoxylated sulfates, when dissolved in water, may undergo a high viscosity hexagonal phase at certain concentrations (e.g., 30% to 60% by weight), producing a gel-like substance. Thus, if incorporated in significant amounts into fibrous elements, alkyl alkoxylated sulfates can significantly slow the dissolution of a water-soluble unit dose preparation in water or, worse still, result in undissolved solids. Accordingly, most such surfactants are formulated as granules.

[0102] The fiber element can each comprise at least one filament forming material and an active agent, preferably a surfactant. The surfactant can have a relatively low hydrophilicity because this surfactant is unlikely to form a viscous gel-like hexagonal phase when diluted. By using this surfactant in forming the filament, gel formation during washing can be effectively reduced, which in turn can result in faster dissolution and low residue or no residue in washing. For example, the surfactant can be selected from the group consisting of: unalkoxylated C6-C20 straight or branched alkyl sulfate (AS), C6-C20 linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), and combinations thereof. The surfactant can be a C6-C20 linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS). LAS surfactants are well known in the art and can be easily obtained by sulfonating commercially available linear alkylbenzenes. Exemplary C6-C20 surfactants that can be used are C6-C20 linear or branched alkyl sulfates (AS), C6-C20 linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), and combinations thereof. 20 Linear alkylbenzene sulfonates include C6-C 20 Alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or ammonium salts of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, such as C 11 -C 18 or C 11 -C 14 Sodium, potassium, magnesium and / or ammonium linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid. 12 Sodium or potassium salts of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acids, such as C 12 The sodium salt of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, ie, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, can be used as the first surfactant.

[0103] The fibrous element may comprise at least about 5 weight percent, and / or at least about 10 weight percent, and / or at least about 15 weight percent, and / or at least about 20 weight percent, and / or less than about 80 weight percent, and / or less than about 75 weight percent, and / or less than about 65 weight percent, and / or less than about 60 weight percent, and / or less than about 55 weight percent, and / or less than about 50 weight percent, and / or less than about 45 weight percent, and / or less than about 40 weight percent, and / or less than about 35 weight percent, and / or less than about 30 weight percent, and / or less than about 25 weight percent of the long fibers, based on the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure. The filament-forming material and greater than about 20% by weight, and / or at least about 35% by weight, and / or at least about 40% by weight, and / or at least about 45% by weight, and / or at least about 50% by weight, and / or at least about 55% by weight, and / or at least about 60% by weight, and / or at least about 65% by weight, and / or at least about 70% by weight, and / or less than about 95% by weight, and / or less than about 90% by weight, and / or less than about 85% by weight, and / or less than about 80% by weight, and / or less than about 75% by weight of an active agent, preferably a surfactant, based on the weight of the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure. The fibrous element may contain greater than about 80% of a surfactant, based on the weight of the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure.

[0104] Preferably, each fibrous element can be characterized by a sufficiently high total surfactant content, for example at least about 30%, or at least about 40%, or at least about 50%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 70% of the first surfactant by weight based on the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure.

[0105] The total amount of filament-forming material present in the fibrous element may be from about 5% to less than about 80% by weight based on the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure, and the total amount of surfactant present in the fibrous element may be from greater than about 20% to about 95% by weight based on the dry fibrous element and / or dry fibrous structure.

[0106] One or more fibrous elements may comprise at least one additional surfactant selected from the group consisting of other anionic surfactants (ie, other than AS and LAS), nonionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, cationic surfactants, and combinations thereof.

[0107] Other suitable anionic surfactants include C6-C 20 Linear or branched alkyl sulfonates, C6-C 20 Straight chain or branched chain alkyl carboxylates, C6-C 20 Linear or branched alkyl phosphate, C6-C 20 Linear or branched alkyl phosphonates, C6-C 20 Alkyl N-methylglucamide, C6-C 20 Methyl ester sulfonate (MES) and combinations thereof.

[0108] Suitable nonionic surfactants include alkoxylated fatty alcohols. Nonionic surfactants can be selected from the formula R(OC2H4) n OH ethoxylated alcohols and ethoxylated alkylphenols wherein R is selected from aliphatic hydrocarbon groups containing from about 8 to about 15 carbon atoms and alkylphenyl groups wherein the alkyl group contains from about 8 to about 12 carbon atoms, and n has an average value of from about 5 to about 15. Non-limiting examples of nonionic surfactants useful herein include: C8-C 18 Alkyl ethoxylates, such as those available from Shell Nonionic surfactant; C6-C 12 Alkylphenol alkoxylates, wherein the alkoxylate units may be ethyleneoxy units, propyleneoxy units, or mixtures thereof; C 12 -C 18 Alcohol and C6-C 12 Condensates of alkylphenols with ethylene oxide / propylene oxide block polymers, such as those available from BASF C 14 -C22 Medium chain branched alcohol, BA; C 14 -C 22 Medium chain branched alkyl alkoxylate, BAE x , wherein x is 1 to 30; alkyl polysaccharides; specifically alkyl polyglycosides; polyhydroxy fatty acid amides; and ether-terminated poly (alkoxylated) alcohol surfactants. Suitable nonionic detersive surfactants also include alkyl polyglucosides and alkyl alkoxylated alcohols. Suitable nonionic surfactants also include those sold by BASF under the trade name Those that are sold.

[0109] Non-limiting examples of cationic surfactants include: quaternary ammonium surfactants, which may have up to 26 carbon atoms, including: alkoxylated quaternary ammonium (AQA) surfactants; dimethylhydroxyethyl quaternary ammonium; dimethylhydroxyethyl lauryl ammonium chloride; polyamine cationic surfactants; cationic ester surfactants; and amino surfactants, such as amidopropyl dimethylamine (APA). Suitable cationic detersive surfactants also include alkyl pyridinium compounds, alkyl quaternary ammonium compounds, alkyl quaternary phosphonium compounds, alkyl ternary sulfonium compounds, and mixtures thereof.

[0110] Suitable cationic detersive surfactants are quaternary ammonium compounds having the general formula:

[0111] (R)(R1)(R2)(R3)N + X -

[0112] Wherein, R is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted C 6-18 Alkyl or alkenyl moiety, R1 and R2 are independently selected from methyl or ethyl moiety, R3 is hydroxyl, hydroxymethyl or hydroxyethyl moiety, X is an anion that provides electroneutrality, suitable anions include: halide (such as chloride); sulfate; and sulfonate. Suitable cationic detersive surfactants are mono C 6-18 Alkyl monohydroxyethyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride. Highly suitable cationic detersive surfactants are mono C 8-10 Alkyl monohydroxyethyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride, mono C 10-12 Alkyl monohydroxyethyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride and mono C 10 Alkyl monohydroxyethyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride.

[0113] Suitable examples of zwitterionic surfactants include: derivatives of secondary and tertiary amines, including derivatives of heterocyclic secondary and tertiary amines; derivatives of quaternary ammonium, quaternary phosphonium or tertiary sulfonium compounds; betaines, including alkyl dimethyl betaine, cocodimethylamidopropyl betaine, sulfobetaine and hydroxybetaine; C8 to C 18 (For example, C 12 to C18 ) amine oxide; N-alkyl-N, N-dimethylamino-1-propane sulfonate, wherein the alkyl group can be C8 to C 18 .

[0114] Suitable amphoteric surfactants include aliphatic derivatives of secondary or tertiary amines, or aliphatic derivatives of heterocyclic secondary and tertiary amines, wherein the aliphatic radical can be straight or branched chain, and wherein one of the aliphatic substituents contains at least about 8 carbon atoms, or from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms, and at least one of the aliphatic substituents contains an anionic water-solubilizing group, such as a carboxyl group, a sulfonate group, or a sulfate group. Suitable amphoteric surfactants also include sarcosinates, glycinates, taurates, and mixtures thereof.

[0115] The fibrous elements may include a surfactant system comprising only anionic surfactants, such as a single anionic surfactant or a combination of two or more different anionic surfactants. Alternatively, the fibrous elements may include a complex surfactant system, for example, comprising a combination of one or more anionic surfactants with one or more nonionic surfactants, or a combination of one or more anionic surfactants with one or more zwitterionic surfactants, or a combination of one or more anionic surfactants with one or more amphoteric surfactants, or a combination of one or more anionic surfactants with one or more cationic surfactants, or a combination of all of the above types of surfactants (i.e., anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and cationic surfactants).

[0116] Typically, the fibrous elements are elongated, having a length that significantly exceeds an average diameter, for example, having a length to average diameter ratio of at least about 10. The fibrous elements can be filaments or fibers. Filaments are relatively longer than fibers. The filaments may have a length of greater than or equal to about 5.08 cm (2 inches), and / or greater than or equal to about 7.62 cm (3 inches), and / or greater than or equal to about 10.16 cm (4 inches, and / or greater than or equal to about 15.24 cm (6 inches). The fibers may have a length of less than about 5.08 cm (2 inches), and / or less than about 3.81 cm (1.5 inches), and / or less than about 2.54 cm (1 inch). In addition, each fiber may have a width of about 100 μm or less, about 75 μm or less, about 50 μm or less, about 25 μm or less, about 10 μm or less, about 5 μm or less, about 1 μm or less, or mixtures thereof. Those skilled in the art will be aware of standard methods and techniques for measuring width. Preferred methods include scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or optical microscopy and image analysis software.

[0117] One or more long filaments form that material and activating agent can long filament form the weight ratio of the total content of material and activating agent for about 2.0 or less, and / or about 1.85 or less, and / or less than about 1.7, and / or less than about 1.6, and / or less than about 1.5, and / or less than about 1.3, and / or less than about 1.2, and / or less than about 1, and / or less than about 0.7, and / or less than about 0.5, and / or less than about 0.4, and / or less than about 0.3, and / or greater than about 0.1, and / or greater than about 0.15, and / or greater than about 0.2 amount is present in fiber element.One or more long filaments form that material and activating agent can long filament form the weight ratio of the total content of material and activating agent for about 0.2 to about 0.7 is present in fiber element.

[0118] The fiber element may comprise about 10% to less than about 80% of a filament-forming material, such as a polyvinyl alcohol polymer, a starch polymer, and / or a carboxymethyl cellulose polymer, based on the weight of the dry fiber element and / or the dry fiber structure, and an active agent, such as a surfactant, greater than about 20% to about 90% based on the weight of the dry fiber element and / or the dry fiber structure. The fiber element may also comprise a plasticizer, such as glycerol, and / or a pH regulator, such as citric acid. The fiber element may have a weight ratio of about 2.0 or less of the filament-forming material to the active agent. The filament-forming material may be selected from the group consisting of: polyvinyl alcohol, starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, and other suitable polymers, especially hydroxyl-containing polymers and their derivatives. The weight-average molecular weight range of the filament-forming material may be about 100,000 g / mol to about 3,000,000 g / mol. It is believed that within this range, the filament-forming material can provide tensile rheology without elasticity, thereby suppressing fiber attenuation during fiber manufacturing.

[0119] Preferably, the filament-forming material comprises polyvinyl alcohol. Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohol polymer is a polyvinyl alcohol homopolymer. Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohol homopolymer has an average degree of hydrolysis of 75% to 100%, preferably 80% to 95%, and most preferably 85% to 90%. Preferably, the polyvinyl alcohol homopolymer has an average viscosity of about 1 mPas to about 30 mPas, preferably about 5 mPas to about 25 mPas, and most preferably about 10 mPas to about 20 mPas, wherein the viscosity is measured as a 4% aqueous solution in demineralized water at 20°C.

[0120] The fiber preferably comprises from about 0.1% to about 15% of a breaker, based on the weight of the fiber, wherein the breaker comprises a polyol, a sugar alcohol, an amine, an amide, a carbohydrate, a multivalent cation, or a mixture thereof, preferably a polyol, a sugar alcohol, or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the fiber comprises from about 1% to about 12%, preferably from about 2% to about 10%, of a breaker, based on the weight of the fiber.

[0121] The one or more active agents may be releasable and / or release when the fibrous element and / or fibrous structure comprising the fibrous element is exposed to conditions of intended use. The one or more active agents in the fibrous element may be selected from the group consisting of surfactants, organic polymeric compounds, and mixtures thereof.

[0122] The fibrous elements may exhibit a diameter of less than about 300 μm, and / or less than about 75 μm, and / or less than about 50 μm, and / or less than about 25 μm, and / or less than about 10 μm, and / or less than about 5 μm, and / or less than about 1 μm, as measured according to the Diameter Test Method described herein. The fibrous elements may exhibit a diameter greater than about 1 μm, as measured according to the Diameter Test Method described herein. The diameter of the fibrous elements can be used to control the release rate of one or more active agents present in the fibrous elements and / or the rate of loss and / or change of the physical structure of the fibrous elements.

[0123] The fibrous element may comprise two or more different activating agents that are compatible or incompatible with each other. The fibrous element may comprise an activating agent in the fibrous element and an activating agent on the outer surface of the fibrous element, such as an activating agent coating on the fibrous element. The activating agent on the outer surface of the fibrous element may be the same as or different from the activating agent present in the fibrous element. If different, the activating agents may be compatible or incompatible with each other. One or more activating agents may be evenly distributed or substantially evenly distributed throughout the fibrous element. One or more activating agents may be distributed as discrete regions within the fibrous element.

[0124] Granular materials

[0125] The unit dose article may comprise a particulate material. The particulate material may comprise one or more at least partially water-insoluble particles comprising a first component (preferably an active component) and a second component (preferably an inactive component). The particulate material may be present between the plies of the water-soluble fiber structure. Similarly, the laundry detergents described herein may comprise a variety of active agents and inactive agents. It has been unexpectedly discovered that some active agents may comprise inactive components that can greatly contribute to the residue seen on the fabric after washing. The present disclosure focuses on particulate materials that can be layered between the plies of the fiber structure.

[0126] The particles or particle clusters can be distributed in pockets distributed in a layer, wherein such pockets can be formed between layers of fibrous elements; the contact network and porosity within each particle cluster are governed by the physics of conventional particle packing, but the clusters are substantially expanded within the layer. The particles or particle clusters can be relatively uniformly distributed throughout the fibrous structure, with substantially no localized particle clustering; the filler is substantially expanded on the scale of individual particles, with less inter-particle contact and greater inter-particle porosity. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that a water-soluble unit dose article comprising a layer containing fibrous elements and particles, wherein a viscous surfactant, such as AES, is separated into particles having an expanded structure, provides improved dispersion and dissolution of the unit dose article by faster absorption of water into the expanded structure and by reducing contact between particles having the viscous surfactant.

[0127] The granular material may comprise at least one at least partially water-insoluble particle. Each particle may comprise a first component (preferably an active component) and a second component (preferably an inactive component). These second components (preferably inactive components) may be insoluble or partially soluble. The inactive component may be selected from fillers, carriers, structurants, builders, cellulosic polymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0128] The active ingredient is selected from surfactants, organic polymeric compounds, enzymes, enzyme stabilizers, bleach systems, whitening agents, colorants, chelating agents, suds suppressors, conditioners, humectants, perfumes, perfume microcapsules, alkaline systems, pH control systems, buffers, alkanolamines and mixtures thereof.

[0129] The particles or particle clusters may have a particle size distribution such that D100 is in the range of about 1300 μm to about 20 μm, or about 1200 μm to about 50 μm, or about 1100 μm to about 100 μm, or about 1000 μm to about 200 μm, or about 900 μm to about 300 μm, or about 800 μm to about 400 μm, or about 700 μm to about 500 μm.

[0130] The particles or particle clusters may have a particle size distribution such that D50 is in the range of about 1800 μm to about 25 μm, or about 1700 μm to about 50 μm, or about 1600 μm to about 100 μm, or about 1500 μm to about 200 μm, or about 1400 μm to about 300 μm, or about 1300 μm to about 400 μm, or about 1200 μm to about 500 μm, or about 1100 μm to about 600 μm, or about 1000 μm to about 700 μm, or about 900 μm to about 800 μm.

[0131] Inactive ingredients

[0132] As previously mentioned, inactive ingredients are components or substances present in a formulation or product that do not constitute the primary active ingredient responsible for producing the desired functional effect. Inactive ingredients can provide a variety of other functions and can generally be classified according to these other functions. However, it should be understood that inactive ingredients can provide more than one function, and some overlap is expected. Therefore, the following categories should not be interpreted too strictly; the many examples given for each category can be reasonably classified into other categories. However, attempts have been made to classify many examples of inactive ingredients into fillers, carriers, structurants, or builders according to their primary function.

[0133] filler

[0134] Generally, filler is the inactive component that is mainly used to improve the bulk volume and volume of detergent formulations.Filler, such as soluble salt (for example, sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate) contributes to the physical structure of detergent products, and does not actively participate in cleaning process.They are used to optimize the form and economic efficiency of products.These fillers are used for main structure or economic purpose, contribute to the overall physical integrity of detergent products and promote cost-saving manufacturing.Although filler does not actively participate in cleaning process, they play a vital role aspect the physical property (such as its outward appearance, texture and treatment properties) of optimizing detergent.Due to the solubility in water of sodium sulfate, sodium chloride and sodium carbonate and the compatibility with detergent formulations, they can be used as fillers.It should be understood that other examples of suitable fillers can be confirmed and adopted based on these standards.

[0135] carrier

[0136] Carriers can serve as a medium for uniform distribution and dispersion of active ingredients, thereby promoting their effective delivery during use. Carriers can help optimize the solubility and dispersibility of detergents in washing. Examples of carriers include inorganic salts, clays, starches, cyclodextrins, and their derivatives and / or combinations thereof. Examples of inorganic salts include, but are not limited to, magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, potassium carbonate, their derivatives and / or combinations thereof. Examples of clays include, but are not limited to, kaolin, bentonite, montmorillonite, illite, their derivatives and / or combinations thereof. Examples of cyclodextrins include, but are not limited to, α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and γ-cyclodextrin, their derivatives and / or combinations thereof.

[0137] Structuring agent

[0138] Structuring agents or structurants are components that impart a specific physical structure or form to solid laundry detergents. They contribute to the overall stability and cohesiveness of the product. Structuring agents play a role in shaping the detergent into a desired form (such as a tablet or bar) and help maintain its structural integrity during storage and use. While fillers can also contribute to structure, structuring agents are particularly focused on shaping detergent products.

[0139] The example of structurant includes silicate, including but not limited to sodium silicate. The structurant may comprise one or more suitable cellulose polymers and / or their derivatives, including those selected from microcrystalline cellulose, alkyl cellulose, alkyl alkoxyalkyl cellulose, carboxyalkyl cellulose, alkyl carboxyalkyl cellulose. The cellulose polymer may be selected from carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl carboxymethyl cellulose, and mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the carboxymethyl cellulose has a carboxymethyl degree of substitution of 0.5 to 0.9 and a range of about 20,000Da to about 300,000Da, or about 30,000Da to about 290,000Da, or about 40,000Da to about 280,000Da, or about 50,000Da to about 270,000Da, or about 60,000Da to about 260,000Da, or about 70,000Da to about 250,000Da, or about 80,000Da to about 240,000Da, or about 90,000Da to about 230,000Da. In some embodiments, the present invention has a molecular weight of about 10,000 Da to about 220,000 Da, or about 110,000 Da to about 210,000 Da, or about 100,000 Da to about 200,000 Da, or about 110,000 Da to about 190,000 Da, or about 120,000 Da to about 180,000 Da, or about 140,000 Da to about 170,000 Da, or about 130,000 Da to about 160,000 Da, or about 140,000 Da to about 150,000 Da.

[0140] detergent

[0141] Builders are components in formulations that primarily assist in water softening, ion exchange or complexing reactions, thereby improving the overall cleaning efficiency of the product. They are not the main active agents responsible for the intended functional effect of the detergent (usually cleaning).

[0142] Suitable builders include aluminosilicates (e.g., zeolite builders such as zeolite A, zeolite P, and zeolite MAP), silicates, phosphates such as polyphosphates (e.g., sodium tripolyphosphate), especially sodium salts thereof; carbonates, bicarbonates, sesquicarbonates, and carbonate minerals other than sodium carbonate or sodium sesquicarbonate; organic monocarboxylates, dicarboxylates, tricarboxylates, and tetracarboxylates, especially water-soluble non-surfactant carboxylates in the form of acid, sodium, potassium, or alkanolammonium salts, and oligomeric or water-soluble low molecular weight polymer carboxylates, including aliphatic and aromatic types; and phytic acid. Other suitable builders may be selected from citric acid, lactic acid, fatty acids, polycarboxylate builders, such as copolymers of acrylic acid, copolymers of acrylic acid and maleic acid, and copolymers of acrylic acid and / or maleic acid with other suitable olefinic monomers having various types of additional functional groups. Alternatively, the composition may be substantially free of builders.

[0143] Active ingredient

[0144] As previously mentioned, an active ingredient is a key component or substance present in a formulation or product that constitutes the primary agent responsible for producing the desired functional effect. Active ingredients play different roles and can be broadly categorized based on their different functions. It is important to acknowledge that active ingredients can provide more than one function, and some overlap is expected. Therefore, the following categories should not be interpreted too strictly; many examples given for each category can reasonably be classified into other categories. However, attempts have been made to categorize many examples of active ingredients by their primary function. The following list summarizes the types of active ingredients, including surfactants, enzymes, polymeric dispersants, detergent polymers, amines, bleaches, bleach catalysts, brighteners, fabric softeners, encapsulates, fragrances, dye transfer inhibitors, chelating agents, foam suppressants, foam boosters, conditioners, fabric enhancers, pearlescent agents, sanitizers and malodorants, as well as buffer systems. Each active ingredient makes a unique contribution to the overall efficacy and performance of the formulation, working together to achieve the desired functional effect in the final product.

[0145] surfactants

[0146] The surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, ampholytic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. These surfactants are described in more detail above.

[0147] enzymes

[0148] Examples of suitable enzymes include, but are not limited to, metalloproteinases, hemicellulases, peroxidases, proteases, cellulases, xylanases, lipases, phospholipases, esterases, cutinases, pectinases, mannanases, pectate lyases, keratinase, reductases, oxidases, phenoloxidases, lipoxygenases, ligninases, pullulanases, tannases, pentosanases, melanases, beta-glucanases, arabinanases, hyaluronidases, chondroitinases, laccases, and amylases, or mixtures thereof. A typical combination is an enzyme mixture that may include, for example, a protease and a lipase in combination with an amylase. When present in the detergent composition, the aforementioned added enzymes may be present in an amount of about 0.00001% to about 2%, about 0.0001% to about 1%, or even about 0.001% to about 0.5% enzyme protein by weight of the composition. The compositions disclosed herein may comprise from about 0.001 wt% to about 1 wt% of an enzyme (as an adjuvant) which may be selected from the group consisting of lipase, amylase, protease, mannanase, cellulase, pectinase, and mixtures thereof.

[0149] polymer dispersants

[0150] Suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, polymer carboxylates such as polyacrylates, polyacrylic acid-maleic acid copolymers and their sulfonated variants, for example, hydrophobically modified sulfonated acrylic acid copolymers. Polymer can be based on cellulose polymers, polyesters, polyterephthalates, polyethylene glycol, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide-ethylene oxide (EOx1POyEOx2) triblock copolymers (wherein x1 and x2 are each in the range of about 2 to about 140, and y is in the range of about 15 to about 70), polyethylene imine, any modified variants thereof, such as polyethylene glycol with grafted vinyl and / or alcohol moieties and any combination thereof. In some cases, dispersant polymers can also be used as rheology modifiers, as described above.

[0151] Suitable polyethyleneimine polymers include propoxylated polyalkyleneimine (e.g., PEI) polymers. Propoxylated polyalkyleneimine (e.g., PEI) polymers can also be ethoxylated. Propoxylated polyalkyleneimine (e.g., PEI) polymers can have internal polyethylene oxide blocks and external polypropylene oxide blocks, not more than or less than the degree of ethoxylation and the degree of propoxylation of a specific limiting value. The ratio (n / p) of polyethylene blocks to polypropylene blocks can be about 0.6, or about 0.8, or about 1 to a maximum of about 10, or a maximum of about 5, or a maximum of about 3. The n / p ratio can be about 2. Propoxylated polyalkyleneimine can have a PEI backbone with a weight average molecular weight (as determined before alkoxylation) of about 200 g / mol to about 1200 g / mol, or about 400 g / mol to about 800 g / mol, or about 600 g / mol. The molecular weight of the propoxylated polyalkyleneimine can be from about 8,000 g / mol to about 20,000 g / mol, or from about 10,000 g / mol to about 15,000 g / mol, or about 12,000 g / mol.

[0152] Suitable propoxylated polyalkyleneimine polymers may include compounds having the following structure:

[0153]

[0154] Wherein EO is an ethoxylate group and PO is a propoxylate group. The compound shown above is PEI, wherein the molar ratio of EO:PO is 10:5 (e.g., 2:1). Other similar suitable compounds may include EO and PO groups present in a molar ratio of about 10:5 or about 24:16.

[0155] Detergent polymers

[0156] Suitable soil release polymers have a structure defined by one of the following structures (I), (II) or (III):

[0157] —[(OCHR 1 —CHR 2 ) a —O—OC—Ar—CO—] d (I)

[0158] —[(OCHR 3 —CHR 4 ) b —O—OC—sAr—CO—] e (II)

[0159] —[(OCHR 5 —CHR 6 ) c —OR7 ] f (III)

[0160] in:

[0161] a, b, and c range from 1 to 200;

[0162] d, e, and f are 1 to 50;

[0163] Ar is 1,4-substituted phenylene;

[0164] sAr is a 1,3-substituted phenylene substituted at position 5 by SO3Me;

[0165] Me is Li, K, Mg / 2, Ca / 2, Al / 3, ammonium, monoalkylammonium, dialkylammonium, trialkylammonium or tetraalkylammonium, wherein the alkyl group is C1-C 18 Alkyl or C2-C 10 hydroxyalkyl or mixtures thereof;

[0166] R 1 、R 2 、R 3 、R 4 、R 5 and R 6 Independently selected from H or C1-C 18 n-alkyl or isoalkyl; and

[0167] R 7 Straight or branched C1-C 18 Alkyl, or linear or branched C2-C 30 alkenyl, or a cycloalkyl group having 5 to 9 carbon atoms, or a C8-C 30 Aryl group, or C6-C 30 Arylalkyl group.

[0168] Suitable soil release polymers are polyester soil release polymers such as Repel-o-tex polymers, including Repel-o-tex SF, SF-2 and SRP6 supplied by Rhodia. Other suitable soil release polymers include Texcare polymers, including Texcare SRA100, SRA300, SRN100, SRN170, SRN240, SRN300 and SRN325 supplied by Clariant. Other suitable soil release polymers are Marloquest polymers, such as Marloquest SL supplied by Sasol.

[0169] amine

[0170] Non-limiting examples of amines may include, but are not limited to, polyetheramines, polyamines, oligoamines, triamines, diamines, pentamines, tetraamines, or combinations thereof. Specific examples of suitable additional amines include tetraethylenepentamine, triethylenetetramine, diethylenetriamine, or mixtures thereof.

[0171] bleach

[0172] Suitable bleaching agents other than bleach catalysts include 2,2',thiophene-2,5-diylbis(benzoxazole), photobleaches, bleach activators, hydrogen peroxide, sources of hydrogen peroxide, preformed peracids, and mixtures thereof. Generally speaking, when a bleaching agent is used, the detergent compositions of the present invention may comprise from about 0.1% to about 50%, or even from about 0.1% to about 25%, of bleaching agent by weight of the detergent composition.

[0173] bleach catalyst

[0174] Suitable bleach catalysts include, but are not limited to, iminium cations and polyions; iminium zwitterions; modified amines; modified amine oxides; N-sulfonyl imines; N-phosphonyl imines; N-acyl imines; thiadiazole dioxides; perfluoroimines; cyclic sugar ketones and mixtures thereof.

[0175] Whitening agent

[0176] Commercially available fluorescent brighteners suitable for use in the present disclosure can be divided into subclasses including, but not limited to, stilbenes, pyrazolines, coumarins, benzoxazoles, carboxylic acids, methinecyanines, 5,5-dioxodiophene, azoles, derivatives of 5- and 6-membered heterocycles, and various other agents.

[0177] The fluorescent whitening agent may be selected from the group consisting of: disodium 4,4'-bis{[4-phenylamino-6-morpholino-s-triazin-2-yl]-amino}-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate (brightener 15, commercially available under the trade name Tinopal AMS-GX from BASF), disodium 4,4'-bis{[4-phenylamino-6-(N-2-bis-hydroxyethyl)-s-triazin-2-yl]-amino}-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate (commercially available under the trade name Tinopal UNPA-GX from BASF), disodium 4,4'-bis{[4-phenylamino-6-(N-2-hydroxyethyl-N-methylamino)-s-triazin-2-yl]-amino}-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate (commercially available under the trade name Tinopal SBM-GX from BASF). More preferably, the fluorescent whitening agent is disodium 4,4′-bis{[4-phenylamino-6-morpholino-s-triazin-2-yl]-amino}-2,2′-stilbene disulfonate.

[0178] Whitening agents can be added in granular form or as a premix with a suitable solvent, e.g. nonionic surfactant, propylene glycol.

[0179] fabric toner

[0180] Fabric hueing agents (sometimes referred to as sunscreens, bluing agents, or brighteners) typically provide a blue or purple hue to fabrics. Hueing agents can be used alone or in combination to produce a specific hue and / or to tone different fabric types. This can be provided, for example, by mixing red and cyan dyes to produce a blue or purple hue. Hueing agents can be selected from dyes of any known chemical class, including but not limited to acridines, anthraquinones (including polycyclic quinones), azine, azo (e.g., monoazo, disazo, triazo, tetrakis azo, polyazo), including premetallated azos, benzodifurans and benzodifuranones, carotenoids, coumarins, cyanines, diaza hemicyanines, diphenylmethanes, methyl compounds, hemicyanines, indigos, methane, naphthalimides, naphthoquinones, nitro and nitroso groups, oxazines, phthalocyanines, pyrazoles, stilbenes, styryls, triarylmethanes, triphenylmethanes, xanthenes, and mixtures thereof.

[0181] Suitable fabric hueing agents include dyes, dye-clay conjugates, and organic and inorganic pigments. Suitable dyes also include small molecule dyes and polymeric dyes. Suitable small molecule dyes include those selected from the direct, alkaline, reactive, or hydrolyzed reactive, solvent or disperse dyes (e.g., classified as blue, purple, red, green or black) belonging to the classification of the Colour Index (CI) and the small molecule dyes of desired hue provided individually or in combination. Suitable polymeric dyes include those selected from the group consisting of: polymers (dye-polymer conjugates) (e.g., polymers with the chromogen copolymerized to the polymer backbone) and their mixtures containing covalently bound (sometimes referred to as conjugated) chromogens, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polymeric dyes also include those selected from the group consisting of: polymers sold under the trade names (Milliken, Spartanburg, SC, USA), a dye-polymer conjugate formed from at least one reactive dye, and a polymer selected from polymers comprising a moiety selected from the group consisting of: a hydroxyl moiety, a primary amine moiety, a secondary amine moiety, a thiol moiety, and mixtures thereof. Suitable polymeric dyes also include polymeric dyes selected from the group consisting of: Violet CT, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) covalently bound to a reactive blue, reactive violet or reactive red dye, such as CMC conjugated to CI Reactive Blue 19 (sold by Megazyme (Wicklow, Ireland) under the product name AZO-CM-CELLULOSE, product code S-ACMC), alkoxylated triphenyl-methane polymer colorants, alkoxylated thiophene polymer colorants, and mixtures thereof.

[0182] The above fabric hueing agents may be used in combination (any mixture of fabric hueing agents may be used).

[0183] Encapsulation

[0184] The encapsulate may comprise a core, a shell having an inner and outer surface, the shell encapsulating the core. The core may comprise any laundry care adjunct, however the core may typically comprise a material selected from the group consisting of: perfumes; whitening agents; hueing dyes; insect repellents; silicones; waxes; flavors; vitamins; fabric softeners; skin care agents, in one aspect, paraffin waxes; enzymes; antimicrobial agents; bleaching agents; sensates; and mixtures thereof; and the shell may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene; polyamides; polyvinyl alcohol, optionally containing other comonomers; polystyrene; polyisoprene; polycarbonates; polyesters; polyacrylates; aminoplasts, in one aspect the aminoplasts may comprise polyureas, polyurethanes, and / or polyureaurethanes, in one aspect the polyureas may comprise polyoxymethylene urea and / or melamine formaldehyde; polyolefins; polysaccharides, in one aspect the polysaccharides may comprise alginates and / or chitosans; gelatin; shellac; epoxy resins; vinyl polymers; water-insoluble inorganics; silicones; and mixtures thereof.

[0185] Preferred encapsulates include fragrances. Preferred encapsulates include an outer shell, which may include melamine formaldehyde and / or cross-linked melamine formaldehyde. Other preferred capsules include an outer shell based on polyacrylates. Preferred encapsulates include a core material and an outer shell, with the outer shell at least partially surrounding the core material being disclosed. At least 75%, 85%, or even 90% of the encapsulates may have a burst strength of 0.2 MPa to 10 MPa, and a benefit agent leakage of 0% to 20%, or even less than 10% or 5%, based on the total initially encapsulated benefit agent. Preferably, at least 75%, 85% or even 90% of the encapsulates may have a particle size of (i) 1 micron to 80 microns, 5 microns to 60 microns, 10 microns to 50 microns, or even 15 microns to 40 microns and / or (ii) at least 75%, 85% or even 90% of the encapsulates may have a particle wall thickness of 30 nm to 250 nm, 80 nm to 180 nm or even 100 nm to 160 nm. Formaldehyde scavengers may be used with the encapsulates, for example in a capsule slurry, and / or added to such compositions before, during or after the encapsulates are added to the composition.

[0186] Suitable capsules can be prepared using known methods. Alternatively, suitable capsules are available from Encapsys LLC, Appleton, Wis. USA. In a preferred aspect, the composition may comprise a deposition aid, preferably in addition to the encapsulant. Preferred deposition aids are selected from the group consisting of cationic polymers and nonionic polymers. Suitable polymers include cationic starch, cationic hydroxyethylcellulose, polyvinyl formaldehyde, locust bean gum, mannan, xyloglucan, tamarind gum, polyethylene terephthalate, and polymers comprising dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate and, optionally, one or more monomers selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid and acrylamide.

[0187] spices

[0188] Non-limiting examples of fragrances and fragrance components include, but are not limited to, aldehydes, ketones, esters, and the like. Other examples include various natural extracts and essential oils, which may contain complex mixtures of components, such as orange oil, lemon oil, rose extract, lavender, musk, patchouli, impatiens essential oil, sandalwood oil, pine oil, cedarwood, and the like. Finished fragrances may contain extremely complex mixtures of such components. Finished fragrances may be included in concentrations ranging from about 0.01% to about 2% by weight of the detergent composition.

[0189] Dye transfer inhibitors

[0190] Dye transfer inhibitors are effective in inhibiting the transfer of dyes from one fabric to another during the cleaning process. Generally, such dye transfer inhibitors can include polyvinyl pyrrolidone polymers, polyamine N-oxide polymers, copolymers of N-vinyl pyrrolidone and N-vinylimidazole, manganese phthalocyanine, peroxidase, and mixtures thereof. If used, these agents can be used at a concentration of about 0.0001% to about 10% by weight of the composition, in some examples at a concentration of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight of the composition, and in other examples at a concentration of about 0.05% to about 2% by weight of the composition.

[0191] chelating agents

[0192] Suitable chelating agents include copper, iron and / or manganese chelating agents, and mixtures thereof. Such chelating agents may be selected from the group consisting of phosphonates, aminocarboxylates, aminophosphonates, succinates, polyfunctionally substituted aromatic chelating agents, 2-hydroxypyridine-N-oxide compounds, hydroxamic acids, carboxymethyl inulin, and mixtures thereof. Chelating agents may be present in acid or salt form, including alkali metal salts, ammonium salts, and substituted ammonium salts thereof, and mixtures thereof. Other suitable chelating agents for use herein are the commercially available DEQUEST series; chelating agents from Monsanto, Akzo-Nobel, DuPont, Dow; and chelating agents from BASF and Nalco. series.

[0193] antifoaming agents

[0194] Compounds for reducing or suppressing foam formation can be incorporated into water-soluble unit dose preparations. Foam suppression may be particularly important in so-called "high concentration cleaning processes" and in front-loading washing machines. Examples of foam suppressors include monocarboxylic fatty acids and their soluble salts, high molecular weight hydrocarbons such as paraffin waxes, fatty acid esters (e.g., fatty acid triglycerides), fatty acid esters of monohydric alcohols, aliphatic C 18 -C 40 Ketones (eg, stearone), N-alkylated aminotriazines, waxy hydrocarbons preferably having a melting point below about 100°C, silicone foam suppressors, and secondary alcohols.

[0195] Other suitable defoamers are those derived from phenylpropylmethyl-substituted polysiloxanes.

[0196] The detergent composition may contain a suds suppressor and a modified silica which is a modified silica, the suds suppressor being selected from a combination of an organomodified siloxane polymer having aryl or alkylaryl substituents and a silicone resin. The detergent composition may contain from about 0.001% to about 4.0% of such suds suppressor by weight of the composition.

[0197] The detergent composition comprises a suds suppressor selected from: a) a mixture of from about 80% to about 92% ethylmethyl(2-phenylpropyl)methicone; from about 5% to about 14% MQ resin in octyl stearate; and from about 3% to about 7% modified silica; b) a mixture of from about 78% to about 92% ethylmethyl(2-phenylpropyl)methicone; from about 3% to about 10% MQ resin in octyl stearate; and from about 4% to about 12% modified silica; or c) mixtures thereof, wherein the percentages are by weight of the anti-suds.

[0198] Foaming agent

[0199] If high foaming is required, a foam booster such as C 10 -C 16 Alkanolamides. Some examples include C 10 -C 14 If desired, water-soluble magnesium and / or calcium salts (such as MgCl2, MgSO4, CaCl2, CaSO4, etc.) may be added at levels of from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight of the detergent composition to provide additional foam and enhance grease removal performance.

[0200] Conditioner

[0201] Suitable conditioning agents include high melting point fatty compounds. High melting point fatty compounds useful herein have a melting point of 25°C or higher and are selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohols, fatty acids, fatty alcohol derivatives, fatty acid derivatives, and mixtures thereof. Suitable conditioning agents also include nonionic polymers and conditioning oils, such as hydrocarbon oils, polyolefins, and fatty esters.

[0202] Suitable conditioning agents include those generally characterized as silicones (e.g., silicone oils, polyoils, cationic silicones, silicone gums, high refractive silicones, and silicone resins), organic conditioning oils (e.g., hydrocarbon oils, polyolefins, and fatty esters), or combinations thereof, or those conditioning agents that otherwise form liquid dispersed particles in the aqueous surfactant matrix herein.

[0203] Fabric-reinforced polymers

[0204] Suitable fabric-enhancing polymers are generally cationic and / or have a high molecular weight. The fabric-enhancing polymer can be a homopolymer or formed from two or more types of monomers. The monomer weight of the polymer is generally from 5,000 to 10,000,000, typically at least 10,000, and preferably from 100,000 to 2,000,000. Preferred fabric-enhancing polymers will have a cationic charge density of at least 0.2 meq / gm, preferably at least 0.25 meq / gm, more preferably at least 0.3 meq / gm, but also preferably less than 5 meq / gm, more preferably less than 3 meq, and most preferably less than 2 meq / gm at the pH of the composition's intended use, which is generally from pH 3 to pH 9, preferably from pH 4 to pH 8. The fabric-enhancing polymer can be of natural or synthetic origin.

[0205] Pearlescent Agent

[0206] Non-limiting examples of pearlescent agents include: mica; titanium dioxide coated mica; bismuth oxychloride; fish scale; mono- or diesters of alkylene glycol. The pearlescent agent may be ethylene glycol distearate (EGDS).

[0207] Hygiene and bad odor

[0208] Suitable hygiene and malodor actives include zinc ricinoleate, thymol, quaternary ammonium salts such as Polyethyleneimine (such as BASF ), and their zinc complexes, silver and silver compounds, especially those designed for slow release of Ag + or a compound of a nanosilver dispersion.

[0209] Buffer system

[0210] The water-soluble unit dose articles described herein can be formulated so that during use in aqueous cleaning operations, the wash water will have a pH between about 7.0 and about 12, and in some examples, will have a pH between about 7.0 and about 11. Techniques for controlling pH at recommended usage levels include the use of buffers, bases, or acids, and are well known to those skilled in the art. These include, but are not limited to, the use of sodium carbonate, citric acid or sodium citrate, lactic acid or lactate, monoethanolamine or other amines, boric acid or borate, and other pH adjusting compounds well known in the art.

[0211] The detergent compositions herein may include a dynamic in-wash pH profile. Such detergent compositions may utilize wax-coated citric acid particles in combination with other pH control agents such that (i) the pH of the wash liquor is greater than 10 at about 3 minutes after contact with water; (ii) the pH of the wash liquor is less than 9.5 at about 10 minutes after contact with water; (iii) the pH of the wash liquor is less than 9.0 at about 20 minutes after contact with water; and (iv) optionally, wherein the equilibrium pH of the wash liquor is in the range of about 7.0 to about 8.5.

[0212] Exemplary Repetition

[0213] According to an exemplary repetition, laundry detergent compositions or unit dose articles may comprise particulate material. This particulate material can comprise one or more particles with active ingredients and inactive ingredients. Unit dose articles may comprise a water-soluble fiber structure and laundry detergent compositions or at least particulate material. The water-soluble fiber structure may comprise multiple layers, and particulate material or laundry detergent compositions may be dispersed between multiple layers. Exemplary inactive ingredients may be from fillers, carriers, structurants, builders and combinations thereof. It should be understood that other inactive ingredients may also be employed. It should also be understood that the active ingredient may be any suitable active ingredient, including but not limited to those described herein. Finally, it should be understood that laundry detergent compositions or unit dose articles may comprise any suitable component, including but not limited to all components described herein.

[0214] The inactive component may have a dry particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm, or about 0.01 μm to about 20 μm, or about 1 μm to about 15 μm, or about 5 μm to about 10 μm. The dry particle size of the inactive component is measured before incorporating the inactive component into at least one particle. It should be understood that upon exposure to water, the particles may optionally swell and / or may release all or a portion of the active component. For example, when exposed to water at a temperature of about 5°C to 40°C, or about 10°C to about 35°C, or about 15°C to about 20°C, or about 10°C to about 25°C for a period of about 5 minutes to about 60 minutes, or about 10 minutes to about 45 minutes, or about 15 minutes to about 30 minutes, or about 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, at least one particle releases about 1% to about 100%, or about 5% to about 95%, or about 10% to about 90%, or about 20% The active ingredient may be about 80%, or about 30% to about 70%, or about 40% to about 60%, or about 50%, and the remaining particles comprising inactive ingredients and optionally some active ingredients may have a particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 75 μm, or about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm, or about 1 μm to about 40 μm, or about 5 μm to about 30 μm, or about 10 μm to about 20 μm, or about 0.01 μm to about 20 μm.

[0215] The inactive component may be soluble or partially soluble in water. The inactive component may have a solubility in water at 25° C. of about 0 g / mL to about 10 g / mL, or about 1 g / mL to about 9 g / mL, or about 2 g / mL to about 8 g / mL, or about 3 g / mL to about 7 g / mL, or about 4 g / mL to about 6 g / mL, or about 5 g / mL. Depending on the iteration, the unit dose article, particulate material, plurality of particles, and / or at least one particle may avoid including inactive components that meet any of the above solubilities and have a particle size that is too large and, therefore, may cause residue on fabrics. For example, according to various iterations, at least one particle, particulate material, and / or unit dose article can avoid any inactive component that is at least partially water-insoluble (or meets any of the above solubility requirements) and also has an average dry particle size of greater than about 50 μm, or greater than about 45 μm, or greater than about 40 μm, or greater than about 35 μm, or greater than about 30 μm, or greater than about 25 μm, or greater than about 20 μm, or greater than about 15 μm, or greater than about 10 μm, or greater than about 5 μm, or greater than about 1 μm, or greater than about 0.1 μm, or greater than about 0.01 μm. Generally, it is sufficient to limit the presence of inactive components that are at least partially water-insoluble and have an average dry particle size greater than about 20 μm. According to various iterations, the inactive component can have a dry particle size of 1 μm to about 10 μm.

[0216] Inactive components may swell when exposed to water. Therefore, various embodiments can ensure that the inactive component has a swelling index of less than 2, or from about 1 to about 2, or from about 1.2 to about 1.8, or from about 1.4 to about 1.6. The inactive component can have a swelling index-adjusted particle size of from about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm, or from about 1 μm to about 40 μm, or from about 5 μm to about 35 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 30 μm, or from about 15 μm to about 25 μm, or about 20 μm.

[0217] According to various iterations, the inactive ingredient can be present in the particle, in one or more particles of a plurality of particles, in a granular material different from one or more particles, and / or in a unit dose product different from one, a plurality of particles or granular materials. For example, at least one particle can contain from greater than 0% to about 70% by weight, or from about 5% to about 65% by weight, or from about 10% to about 60% by weight, or from about 15% to about 55% by weight, or from about 20% to about 50% by weight, or from about 25% to about 45% by weight, or from about 30% to about 40% by weight, or about 10% by weight of the inactive ingredient, based on the total weight of the at least one particle. As another example, at least one particle can contain from about 30% by weight, or from about 30% to about 100% by weight, or from about 40% to about 90% by weight, or from about 50% to about 80% by weight, or from about 60% to about 70% by weight, or from about 90% to about 100% by weight of the active ingredient, based on the total weight of the at least one particle. As yet another example, the particulate material can comprise a total amount of about 60% by weight, or about 60% to 100% by weight, or about 65% to 95% by weight, or about 60% to 90% by weight, or about 70% to 85% by weight, or about 75% to 80% by weight, or about 90% to about 100% by weight of all inactive ingredients present in the unit dose article, based on the total weight of the unit dose article. Indeed, according to some iterations, the particulate material comprises all inactive ingredients present in the unit dose article.

[0218] Example

[0219] The following examples are presented to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to implement the methods, prepare, and use the compositions and compounds disclosed and claimed herein. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperatures, etc.), but some errors and deviations should be considered. The following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the various iterations, but rather to provide examples illustrating specific iterations.

[0220] Example 1

[0221] The purpose of this example is to demonstrate the preparation of four unit dose preparations (Compositions 1 to 4). Compositions 1 and 2 contain granules prepared in a rotating drum batch process to produce mixed granules (hereinafter, "Production Route 1"). Compositions 3 and 4 contain granules prepared in a fluidized bed process to produce layered granules ("Production Route 2").

[0222] Various components were used in the various compositions, which are detailed in Table 1. Generally, in Compositions 1-4, a nonwoven fiber web (hereinafter, BW VT33 web) was used; a granular laundry detergent composition comprising a surfactant, a chelating agent, a polymeric builder, and a carbonate (hereinafter, PolyAgg HT33) was used; a suds suppressor was used; an amylase was used; a protease was used; a processing aid, minor ingredients, and a fragrance were used. The specific amounts of each component, as well as the enzyme activity of the finished product, are listed in Table 1. Material additions are shown as active material levels in the finished product (FP).

[0223]

[0224]

[0225] Production Route 1 (a batch drum process for producing mixed granules) involves mixing and homogenizing various solid components to produce a uniform and consistent granular product. In this process, a large cylindrical drum or agitator is used. The dry raw materials are weighed and loaded into the drum. The drum is then rotated using a variable speed and tilting mechanism to ensure thorough mixing. During rotation, the liquid component is sprayed onto the material to promote adhesion. This controlled stirring and blending process continues until the desired level of uniformity is achieved. Once the mixture is uniform, it is discharged from the drum and prepared for testing as specified in Example 2.

[0226] Production route 2 (fluidized bed process) uses a fluidized bed reactor or dryer. Dry raw materials are introduced into the fluidized bed. Then heated air or gas is blown into the chamber from below, making these materials become suspended and behave like a fluid. Other liquid materials are then introduced through a nozzle above the fluidized bed. When these other liquid materials are sprayed or poured onto the fluidized core, they adhere to the original raw materials and form different layers. The controlled flow of gas and the manipulation of process parameters (such as temperature, airflow and spray rate) determine the thickness and composition of each layer. This process continues until the required layered particle structure is obtained. Once completed, the product is taken out and prepared for the test specified in Example 2.

[0227] Example 2

[0228] The purpose of this example is to demonstrate the effect of the enzyme granule production route on fabric residue. Three external replicates were completed for each composition. 1000 ml of tap water was metered into each power washer tank and cooled to 10°C or heated to 25°C. 1.22 g of the composition being tested was then added and a timer started. After 20 minutes of dissolution, the entire wash solution was removed from each power washer tank and the solution was removed using a vacuum pump, a 3-piece 9 cm diameter Buchner funnel, and a side arm. The flask was filtered through black fabric. Table 2 summarizes the materials used.

[0229]

[0230] At the beginning of each test, the black fabric was weighed using a balance so that the residual weight could be determined gravimetrically. The fabric was allowed to dry overnight at room temperature and then reweighed using Analyze the CIELAB color space of any residue deposited on the fabric.

[0231] Lab color space (CIELAB color space): Also known as L*a*b*, this is a color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) in 1976. It represents color as three values: L* represents perceived lightness, and a* and b* represent the four unique colors of human vision: red, green, blue, and yellow. L* can range from 0 (black) to 100 (white); a* specifies red-green and can range from negative (green) to positive (red); and b* specifies yellow-blue and can range from negative (blue) to positive (yellow). The CIELAB color space is device-independent, meaning it is not dependent on any particular device or display technology. This makes it a good choice for applications where accurate color representation is required across a variety of devices.

[0232] The color difference between two colors can be calculated by measuring the L*a*b* values of each color. As specified by the following formula, the value of ΔE*ab is a measure of the perceived color difference between the two colors. The higher the value of ΔE*ab, the greater the perceived color difference.

[0233]

[0234] Where ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb* are the differences in L*, a*, and b* values between the two colors.

[0235] ΔL*=L 洗涤过的 -L 初始

[0236] Δa*=a 洗涤过的 -a 初始

[0237] Δb*=b 洗涤过的 -b 初始

[0238] refer to Figure 5 , L*, a*, and b* measurements are performed by analyzing a test fabric 1 containing one or more residue portions 2. The measurements are performed over the entire area enclosed by a perimeter 3 surrounding all of the one or more residue portions 2 on the fabric 1. The perimeter 3 is a circle with a radius of approximately 450 mm.

[0239] Figure 6A 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 9A This is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric, confirming the initial condition of the fabric sample used. Figure 6B 、 Figure 6C and Figure 6D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 10°C. Figure 7B 、 Figure 7C and Figure 7D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 10°C. Figure 8B 、 Figure 8C and Figure 8D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 10°C. Figure 9B 、 Figure 9C and Figure 9D are photographs of the first, second and third replicas of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 10° C. Table 3 summarizes the results of the measured levels of residue per group by weight (g) and by color (ΔE*ab), calculated as described above for the samples tested at 10° C.

[0240]

[0241] Figure 10A 、 Figure 11A 、 Figure 12A and Figure 13A This is a photograph of an untreated / unstained sample of C70 black fabric, confirming the initial condition of the fabric sample used. Figure 10B 、 Figure 10C and Figure 10D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 1 at 25°C. Figure 11B 、 Figure 11C and Figure 11D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 2 at 25°C. Figure 12B 、 Figure 12C and Figure 12D are photographs of the first, second, and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 3 at 25°C. Figure 13B 、 Figure 13C and Figure 13Dare photographs of the first, second and third replicates of C70 black fabric after exposure to Composition 4 at 25° C. Table 4 summarizes the results of the measured levels of residue per group by weight (g) and by color (ΔE*ab), calculated as described above for samples tested at 25° C.

[0242]

[0243] The examples demonstrate the efficacy of fluidized bed layered granules in laundry detergent powder / web compositions in delivering less residue when tested at the same weight (Composition 3) relative to a "mixed" granule obtained from a drum batch process (Composition 2) and when tested at the same active enzyme (Composition 4) relative to a "mixed" granule obtained from a drum batch process (Composition 2).

[0244] Example 3

[0245] The purpose of this embodiment is to prove the residue that various insoluble fillers (inactive components) with different particle sizes leave on black cotton fabric and polyester fabric.Insoluble filler comprises zeolite with 4 μ m dry particle size, precipitated calcium carbonate with 7 μ m dry particle size, magnesium carbonate (MgCO 3 ) with 15 μ m dry particle size, microcrystalline cellulose with 20 μ m dry particle size and microcrystalline cellulose with 50 μ m dry particle size.In each test, 0.04 g of each filler is used in every 800 ml 6 gpg water.The solution is stirred using vacuum pump, 3-piece 9 cm diameter Buchner funnel and with side arm. The flasks were filtered through fabric. Three replicates were completed for each material.

[0246] Figure 14A and Figure 15A Each shows a photograph of three replicates of technical black cotton fabric and consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to zeolite having a dry particle size of 4 μm.

[0247] Figure 14B and Figure 15B Each shows a photograph of three replicates of technical black cotton fabric and consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to precipitated calcium carbonate having a dry particle size of 7 μm.

[0248] Figure 14C and Figure 15C Each shows a photograph of three replicates of industrial black cotton fabric and consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) having a dry particle size of 15 μm.

[0249] Figure 14D and Figure 15DEach shows a photograph of three replicates of industrial black cotton fabric and consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 20 μm.

[0250] Figure 14E and Figure 15E Each shows a photograph of three replicates of industrial black cotton fabric and consumer black polyester fabric after exposure to microcrystalline cellulose having a dry particle size of 50 μm.

[0251] Based on visual inspection of these figures, the polyester fabric exhibited more residue than the cotton technical test fabric. This suggests that its pore size is smaller for the retention of insoluble particles. Insoluble particles of 4 μm or less were demonstrated to leave no visible residue on either the cotton or polyester fabrics. For particle sizes greater than approximately 7 μm, the polyester fabric exhibited visible residue. For particle sizes greater than approximately 20 μm, the cotton fabric exhibited visible residue.

[0252] Contemplated embodiments

[0253] Embodiment A: A unit dose product comprising: a water-soluble fiber structure having a plurality of layers and a plurality of particles dispersed between the plurality of layers, wherein each particle of the plurality of particles comprises an active component and an inactive component, and wherein when exposed to water at a temperature of 5°C to 40°C, preferably about 10°C to about 25°C, for a time of about 5 minutes to about 60 minutes, preferably about 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, at least about 50% to about 100%, preferably about 70% to 90%, of the plurality of particles release at least some of the active components and have a particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm.

[0254] Embodiment Al: A laundry detergent composition comprising a particulate material comprising at least one particle comprising: an active component and an inactive component having a dry particle size of from about 0.01 μm to about 20 μm.

[0255] Further definitions and cross-references

[0256] The dimensions and values disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

[0257] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the present inventions disclosed or claimed herein, or an admission that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0258] While particular iterations of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that all such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the invention be encompassed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A unit dose product comprising a water-soluble fiber structure, preferably in the form of a pouch, and A granular material comprising at least one particle, preferably at least partially water-insoluble, comprising a first component, preferably a water-soluble active component, and a second component, wherein the second component has a dry particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 20 μm.

2. The unit dose preparation according to claim 1, wherein the second component, preferably the inactive component, is at least partially water-insoluble.

3. The unit dose article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one particle releases at least some of the first component, preferably the active component, when exposed to water at a temperature of 5°C to 40°C, preferably from about 10°C to about 25°C, for a time of from about 5 minutes to about 60 minutes, preferably from about 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, and has a particle size of from about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm.

4. The unit dose article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the particulate material does not comprise any second component, preferably an inactive component, that is at least partially water-insoluble and has an average dry particle size greater than about 50 μm, preferably about 20 μm.

5. The unit dose preparation according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the unit dose preparation does not comprise any second component, preferably an inactive component, that is at least partially water-insoluble and has an average dry particle size greater than about 50 μm, preferably about 20 μm.

6. The unit dose article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one particle comprises from greater than 0% to about 70%, preferably about 10%, by weight of the second component, preferably an inactive component, based on the total weight of the at least one particle.

7. The unit dose preparation according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one particle comprises about 30% by weight, preferably about 90% by weight to about 100% by weight of the first component, preferably the active component, based on the total weight of the at least one particle.

8. The unit dose preparation according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the particulate material comprises a total amount of about 60% by weight, preferably about 90% by weight to about 100% by weight, of all second components, preferably inactive components, present in the unit dose preparation, based on the total weight of the unit dose preparation.

9. The unit dose preparation according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the particulate material comprises all of the second component, preferably the inactive component, present in the unit dose preparation.

10. The unit dose article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water-soluble fibrous structure comprises a plurality of layers, and wherein the particulate material is dispersed between the plurality of layers.

11. The unit dose article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second component, preferably the inactive component, has a dry particle size of 1 μm to about 10 μm, and preferably a swelling index of less than 2.

12. The unit dose preparation according to any preceding claim, wherein the second component, preferably the inactive component, has a swelling index adjusted particle size of about 0.01 μm to about 50 μm and preferably a solubility in water of about 0 g / mL to about 10 g / mL at about 25°C.

13. The unit dose article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second component, preferably an inactive component, comprises a crystalline material, preferably a filler, a carrier, a structurant, a builder or a combination thereof.

14. The unit dose article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first component, preferably the active component, comprises at least one of an enzyme, a surfactant, an inorganic dissolution aid, a rheology modifier, or a combination thereof.

15. The unit dose preparation of claim 14, wherein the first component comprises a surfactant and wherein the surfactant comprises linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, alkyl ethoxylated sulfate, or a combination thereof, preferably further comprising alkyl ethoxylated sulfate, preferably in a ratio of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate to alkyl ethoxylated sulfate greater than 1.

16. The unit dose preparation of any preceding claim, further comprising fragrance microcapsules, a colorant, a bleaching agent, an enzyme, an aversive agent, a nonionic surfactant, or a combination thereof.

17. The unit dose article of any preceding claim comprising a printed area on an outer surface thereof.

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