Compositions for cleaning surfaces and controlling insects

Abstract

The present invention relates to a composition for cleaning a surface while controlling insects. The composition is useful on hard surfaces in home, such as those on appliances, furniture, floors, walls and toilets, as well as on soft surfaces, such as garments, interior decorations, bed sheets and blankets. The use of the composition on such a surface ensures long-lasting cleaning after surface cleaning and prevents insects from being attracted to such a surface for up to 24 hours. This is accomplished by the use of a cleaning composition comprising spores of bacteria of the genus Bacillus, selected essential oil ingredients, and a surfactant.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to compositions for cleaning surfaces while simultaneously repelling insects. These compositions can be used on hard surfaces in the home, such as appliances, furniture, floors, walls, and toilets, as well as on soft surfaces, such as clothing, upholstery, sheets, and blankets. The use of the composition on such surfaces ensures long-lasting cleanliness after cleaning and prevents insects from being attracted to such surfaces for up to 24 hours. Background Technology

[0002] People like to keep surfaces clean and hygienic in their homes and other inhabited places (such as offices, hotels, and restaurants) and public places (such as airports, buses, and train stations). Surfaces such as those in bathrooms and toilets are particularly prone to getting dirty due to the nature of their use. Kitchen utensils and other surfaces (such as sinks, kitchen countertops, and stovetops) tend to be stained by food residue and require frequent cleaning. These surfaces are cleaned using hard surface cleaning compositions containing surfactants that aid in cleaning and antimicrobial agents that ensure the elimination of microorganisms. While such compositions are effective for immediate cleaning of surfaces, they often become soiled or stained over a period of time (e.g., within hours). As various types of stains and grime accumulate on the surface over time after cleaning, the surface attracts insects such as flies, cockroaches, ants, and termites. Fabrics with soft surfaces, such as clothes, sheets, blankets, mattresses, and upholstery such as sofas and curtains, also attract insects such as bed bugs, dust mites, and silverfish. Fabrics can be cleaned by hand or in a washing machine to ensure hygiene. However, such surfaces also become soiled and attract insects over time.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to ensure lasting deep cleaning of the aforementioned types of surfaces, so that once cleaned, the surface remains clean for a long time, for example, up to 24 hours after cleaning. Ensuring the surface remains free of food, dirt, or other types of stains for an extended period also ensures that the aforementioned crawling insects will not be attracted to such surfaces. Such a cleaning composition is highly desirable to consumers. While attempting to solve the above problems, the inventors of this invention discovered a combination of Bacillus spores and selected essential oil components in a surfactant-containing composition that not only ensures excellent cleaning and insect control immediately after cleaning action, but also ensures that the surface remains clean and effectively prevents insects from being attracted to these surfaces for a long period thereafter.

[0004] WO2021 / 240315 (Setter) discloses a probiotic Bacillus surface disinfectant comprising a disinfectant, a species of probiotic Bacillus and a surfactant, but excluding any stabilizer, and a method for preparing the probiotic Bacillus surface disinfectant.

[0005] WO2021 / 094091 (Henkel) discloses a fragrance carrier composition comprising bacterial spores and at least one fragrance agent, wherein the at least one fragrance agent is at least partially adsorbed onto the bacterial spores.

[0006] The prior art known to the inventors does not disclose compositions containing Bacillus spores, selected essential oil components, and surfactants that ensure long-lasting cleaning and insect control.

[0007] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a composition that ensures the surface remains clean for up to 24 hours.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a composition that not only provides long-lasting cleaning, but also ensures that insects are prevented from remaining on such surfaces for up to 24 hours after cleaning. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a composition for cleaning surfaces and controlling insects, comprising:

[0010] (i) 0.000005 to 1% by weight of Bacillus spores;

[0011] (ii) 0.001 to 1.0% by weight of one or more essential oil components selected from menthol, citronellol, neraldehyde, geraniol, citral, β-caryophyllene, and limonene; and

[0012] (iii) Surfactants;

[0013] Bacillus spores are a combination of bacterial spores from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus subtilis.

[0014] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for cleaning a surface and ensuring that insects are not attracted to the surface for an extended period after cleaning, comprising the step of contacting the surface with a composition of a first aspect, preferably diluted with water. Detailed Implementation

[0015] To avoid ambiguity, any feature of one aspect of the invention may be used in any other aspect of the invention. The word “comprising” is intended to mean “including”, but not necessarily “consisting of” or “made up of”. Therefore, the term “comprising” is not intended to be limited to any element subsequently stated, but optionally covers unspecified elements having primary or secondary functional significance. In other words, the listed steps or options need not be exhaustive. Whenever the terms “comprising” or “having” are used, these terms are intended to be equivalent to “comprising” as defined above. It should be noted that the examples given in the following description are intended to illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to those examples themselves. Except in the embodiments, or where otherwise expressly indicated, all figures in this specification and claims representing amounts of material or reaction conditions, physical properties of materials, and / or uses are modified by the word “about”. Unless otherwise indicated, numerical ranges expressed in the form of “x to y” should be understood to include both x and y. When multiple preferred ranges are described in the form of “x to y” for a particular feature, it should be understood that all ranges combining different endpoints are also considered. Unless otherwise stated, the amounts used herein are expressed as a weight percentage based on the total weight of the composition and are abbreviated as "weight %".

[0016] This invention relates to insect control. Insect control according to the invention differs from insect killing or (or insecticidal action) or insect repellent. In insect killing or insecticidal action, the active substance used is very effective and is used to kill insects. Insect repellent refers to the application of an active substance so that the odor or vapor of the active substance causes insects to be repelled, thus causing them to tend to stay away from the treated area. The invention uses a different method, which is relatively safer and uses a very mild active substance. Insect control according to the invention refers to treating surfaces such that insects are not attracted to such surfaces for a considerable period of time after the cleaning action.

[0017] Insects that can be controlled from various surfaces cleaned using the compositions of the present invention include crawling insects such as ants, cockroaches, dust mites, silverfish, bed bugs, and termites. Additionally, the compositions, particularly for tableware and utensils, can be used to control flying insects such as flies. These insects are either annoying or pose health hazards; for example, ants settle in kitchens and other areas and contaminate food. Cockroaches cause and spread diseases, while bed bugs cause itching and asthma. Dust mites are known to cause allergies, while termites damage furniture. Houseflies are known to be vectors for various diseases. Therefore, consumers desire cleaning products used at home to clean surfaces, clothes, and other fabrics that not only clean but also control insects for a prolonged period after cleaning, such as at least 6 hours, preferably 16 hours, or even up to 24 hours.

[0018] The compositions of the present invention comprise a combination of bacterial spores of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus subtilis. According to the present invention, a combination of bacterial spores means that bacterial spores can be included in the composition.

[0019] Another preferred aspect relates to compositions comprising bacterial spores selected from one or both of Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus thuringiensis. A particularly preferred aspect of the invention relates to combinations comprising bacterial spores of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus thuringiensis.

[0020] When a combination of bacterial spores is included in the composition of the present invention, it is preferred that each bacterial spore is present at 1% to 70% of the total number of bacterial spores, more preferably 5% to 50%. Even more preferred aspects of the invention involve combinations of three bacterial spores selected from *Bacillus amyloliquefaciens*, *Bacillus megaterium*, *Bacillus subtilis*, and *Bacillus pumilus*, or combinations of all four bacterial spores, each comprising 5% to 40% of the total number of bacterial spores, preferably 5% to 30%. Particularly preferred aspects of the invention involve *Bacillus pumilus* and *Bacillus thuringiensis* bacterial spores (when included), each comprising 1% to 30% of the total number of bacterial spores, preferably 5% to 20%, most preferably 5% to 15%.

[0021] Bacterial spores are included in the composition at a concentration of 0.000005% to 1% by weight, preferably 0.00005% to 0.75% by weight, and more preferably 0.0001% to 0.5% by weight. The bacterial spores used in the compositions of the present invention may be counted to about 10. 11 The composition is in powder form at cfu / g, but other methods known to those skilled in the art for growing and introducing spores into the composition are also possible. Therefore, in the composition, bacterial spores are preferably present in a concentration of 10... 3 Up to 10 11 cfu / g, more preferably 10 4 Up to 10 9 cfu / g, and the optimal value is 10. 5 Up to 10 8 The CFU / G composition includes...

[0022] The compositions of the present invention comprise selected essential oil components. Components that may be included are one or more selected from menthol, citronellol, neraldehyde, geraniol, citral, β-caryophyllene, and limonene. More preferably, one or more of citral and limonene may be included. Essential oils (containing the above-mentioned components) may also be included in place of the net components. Such essential oils may be one or more selected from lemongrass oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil, and thyme oil. More preferably, one or more of thyme oil, cinnamon oil, and eucalyptus oil may be included, and most preferably, lemongrass oil. The essential oil components are contained in the composition at 0.001% to 1% by weight, preferably 0.005% to 0.5% by weight, more preferably 0.005% to 0.3% by weight.

[0023] The compositions of the present invention comprise surfactants. The surfactants are preferably selected from one or more of anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and nonionic surfactants. More preferably, the surfactants are anionic or nonionic surfactants. The total amount of surfactants used in the compositions of the present invention is 1 to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0024] If the surfactant is anionic, it is preferably selected from one or more of alkyl ether sulfates, linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, and primary alkyl sulfate surfactants. If included, the anionic surfactant is preferably contained in 1 to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0025] If the surfactant is cationic, it is preferably alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride. If included, the cationic surfactant is preferably contained in 0.005 to 2% by weight of the composition.

[0026] If the surfactant is nonionic, it is preferably an alcohol ethoxylate. Suitable nonionic surfactants for use in this invention are sold under the trade names Lialet, Link, Neodol, and Alkonate. If included, the nonionic surfactant is preferably contained in 0.1 to 3% by weight of the composition.

[0027] The compositions of the present invention can be provided in solid or liquid form, preferably in liquid form. If in liquid form, the composition preferably contains 70% to 97% by weight of water.

[0028] The compositions of the present invention can be delivered in any of the following types of product applications as described in the following detailed description.

[0029] Laundry detergent composition :

[0030] The composition can be provided as a laundry detergent composition, wherein a surfactant (preferably anionic surfactant) is contained in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight. The laundry detergent composition can be provided in solid or liquid form.

[0031] The laundry detergent composition of the present invention can be delivered therein, preferably in liquid form. The term liquid can include emulsions, suspensions, and compositions having a flowable but more rigid consistency, referred to as gels or pastes. Pourable liquid detergent compositions preferably have a viscosity of 200 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s, more preferably 200 mPa·s to 700 mPa·s. Such compositions typically have an aqueous continuous phase. Preferably, the composition contains at least 50% by weight of water, and more preferably at least 70% by weight of water. Water is typically present in an amount of 20% to 99.9%, preferably 40% to 80% by weight of the composition.

[0032] Liquid laundry detergent compositions typically contain 1 to 30% by weight, preferably 2 to 15% by weight, one or more surfactants. The surfactants are typically anionic. Preferred anionic surfactants are organic sulfates and sulfonates having an alkyl group containing about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms; the term "alkyl" is used for the alkyl moiety including a higher acyl group. Examples of such materials include alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, alkylaryl sulfonates, α-olefin sulfonates, and mixtures thereof. The alkyl group preferably contains 10 to 18 carbon atoms and may be unsaturated. Alkyl ether sulfates may contain 1 to 10 ethylene oxide or propylene oxide units per molecule, and preferably 1 to 3 ethylene oxide units per molecule. The counterions of the anionic surfactants are typically alkali metals, such as sodium or potassium; or ammonia counterions, such as monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA), or triethanolamine (TEA). Mixtures of these counterions may also be used. Sodium and potassium are preferred.

[0033] The most preferred surfactants are alkylbenzene sulfonates, particularly straight-chain alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) with an alkyl chain length of 10 to 18 carbon atoms. Some alkyl sulfate surfactants (PAS), such as non-ethoxylated primary and secondary alkyl sulfates with an alkyl chain length of 10 to 18, can also be used.

[0034] Preferably, the composition contains 5 to 20% by weight of a nonionic surfactant based on the total weight of the composition. Preferred categories of nonionic surfactants for use in this invention include aliphatic C8 to C96 surfactants. 18 C is preferred 12 To C 15 Straight-chain primary alcohol ethoxylates have an average of 3 to 20, more preferably 5 to 10 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol. Preferred nonionic surfactants are C16 / 18 alcohol ethoxylates.

[0035] In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, liquid laundry detergent compositions typically contain agents such as stain-removing polymers, water-soluble agents, surfactants, builders, polymer thickeners, and color-correcting dyes. Stain-removing polymers (SRPs) help improve the removal of dirt from fabrics by modifying the fabric surface during the washing process.

[0036] The SRP structure may also include end-capping groups to control molecular weight or modify polymer properties, such as surface activity. Preferred SRPs for use in this invention comprise copolyesters formed by the condensation of terephthalate and glycol (preferably 1,2-propylene glycol), and further comprise alkyl-terminated end caps formed from repeating epoxy units. When SRPs are included, the range of SRPs can be from 0.1 to 10% by weight of the composition, ideally from 0.3 to 7% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 5% by weight.

[0037] The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated with non-aqueous carriers, such as water-soluble co-solvents, solubilizers, and phase stabilizers. Such materials are typically low molecular weight, water-soluble or water-miscible organic liquids, such as C1 to C5 monohydric alcohols (e.g., ethanol and n-propanol or isopropanol); C2 to C6 diols (e.g., monopropylene glycol and dipropylene glycol); C3 to C9 triols (e.g., glycerol); weight-average molecular weight (M... w The composition may include polyethylene glycol in the range of about 200 to 600; C1 to C3 alkanolamines, such as monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine; and alkyl aryl sulfonates (such as xylene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and sodium and potassium isopropylbenzene (cumene) sulfonate) having up to three carbon atoms in the lower alkyl group. When included, a non-aqueous carrier may be present in the range of 0.1 to 3%, preferably 0.5 to 1%, by weight of the composition. Preferred co-water solubilizers are monopropylene glycol and glycerol.

[0038] In addition to the aforementioned non-soap anionic and / or nonionic detergency surfactants, the liquid laundry detergent compositions of the present invention also contain one or more co-surfactants (such as amphoteric (amphoionic) and / or cationic surfactants). When included, such co-surfactants may be present in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 5% by weight of the composition.

[0039] Liquid laundry detergent compositions may optionally contain relatively low levels of organic detergent builders or chelating agents. Examples include alkali metal citrates, succinates, malonates, carboxymethyl succinates, carboxylates, polycarboxylate aminocarboxylates, and polyacetylates. If used, the organic builder material may comprise from about 0.5% to 20% by weight of the composition, preferably from 1% to 10% by weight.

[0040] When the composition is a liquid laundry detergent composition, it can be diluted with water at ratios such as 1:50, 1:100, or 1:200 to form a detergent solution.

[0041] The solid laundry compositions described herein may take various physical solid forms, including powders, granules, strips, thin strips, pastes, tablets, flakes, lozenges, and strips, and preferably the compositions are in the form of powders, granules, or strips.

[0042] The compositions according to the invention can be prepared by various conventional methods known in the art, including dry mixing, compaction such as agglomeration, extrusion, tableting, or spray drying of various compounds contained in the detergent components, or combinations of these techniques. The powder or granular compositions preferably have a density greater than 350 g / L, more preferably greater than 450 g / L, or even greater than 570 g / L.

[0043] Typical solid laundry detergent compositions contain one or more surfactants selected from anionic, nonionic, amphoteric, cationic, and amphoteric types, preferably anionic. These solid compositions typically contain 1 to 30% by weight of anionic surfactants. Details of various components described for liquid detergent compositions, such as anionic and nonionic surfactants, SRPs, water-soluble additives, builders, etc., may also be included in solid detergent compositions. Additionally, they may contain other auxiliaries to provide benefits to the washed fabrics, such as anti-redeposition polymers, which may be included together at 0 to 5% by weight of the composition. Builders are typically included, particularly to counteract the adverse effects of water hardness used to wash fabrics, and these builders constitute up to 50% by weight of the composition, typically 10 to 30% by weight. Other fabric-beneficial agents such as color-correcting dyes and optical brighteners may be included at up to 1% by weight of the composition. Bleach may sometimes be included, and when included, it constitutes up to 10% by weight of the composition, and fillers typically constitute up to 40% by weight of the composition.

[0044] When measured at 1% by weight in deionized water at 25°C, the solid laundry detergent composition according to the invention preferably has a pH of 7.0 to 10.5, more preferably 7.0 to 10.2, and even more preferably 8.5 to 10.2. The composition may preferably include a buffer.

[0045] Fabric conditioning compositions

[0046] The compositions of the present invention can also be provided as fabric conditioning compositions, which further contain 1 to 50% of fabric softening active substances.

[0047] Fabric conditioning compositions are also known as fabric softeners. Fabric conditioning agents contain active materials that soften or condition fabrics. Examples of suitable fabric softening active substances include: quaternary ammonium compounds, siloxane polymers, polysaccharides, clays, amines, fatty esters, dispersible polyolefins, polymer latexes, and mixtures thereof. The fabric softening active substance is preferably selected from quaternary ammonium compounds or siloxane polymers and mixtures thereof, more preferably quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0048] The fabric softening compound can preferably be cationic or nonionic. Preferably, the fabric softening compound of the present invention is cationic.

[0049] The fabric conditioning composition used according to the invention can be diluted or concentrated. Diluted products typically contain up to about 6% by weight of the composition softening compound, typically about 1 to 5% by weight, while concentrated products may contain up to about 50% by weight of the composition softening compound, preferably about 5 to about 50% by weight, more preferably 6 to 25% by weight. Overall, the products of the invention may contain 1 to 50% by weight of the composition, preferably 2 to 25% by weight, more preferably 2 to 20% by weight of the softening compound.

[0050] The preferred softening compound in the fabric conditioning composition used in this invention is a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC). The QAC preferably comprises at least one chain derived from a fatty acid, more preferably at least two chains derived from fatty acids. Generally, a fatty acid is defined as an aliphatic monocarboxylic acid having a chain of 4 to 28 carbons. Preferably, the fatty acid chain is palm or tallow fatty acid. Preferably, the fatty acid chain of the QAC comprises 10 to 50% by weight of saturated C18 chains and 5 to 40% by weight of monounsaturated C18 chains of the total fatty acid chains. In a further preferred embodiment, the fatty acid chain of the QAC comprises 20 to 40% by weight, preferably 25 to 35% by weight, of saturated C18 chains and 10 to 35% by weight, preferably 15 to 30% by weight of monounsaturated C18 chains of the total fatty acid chains.

[0051] The preferred quaternary ammonium fabric softening compound used in the compositions of the present invention is a so-called "ester quaternary ammonium salt". Particularly preferred materials are ester-linked triethanolamine (TEA) quaternary ammonium compounds, which comprise a mixture of monoester-linked, diester-linked, and trimer-linked components.

[0052] The compositions of the present invention, provided as fabric conditioning compositions, may also contain nonionic surfactants. These may typically be included for the purpose of stabilizing the composition. Suitable nonionic surfactants include addition products of ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide with fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and fatty amines.

[0053] Preferably, the HLB of the nonionic surfactant is about 7 to about 20, more preferably 10 to 18, for example 12 to 16. Genapol, based on coconut oil chains and 20 EO groups... TM C200 (Clariant) is an example of a suitable nonionic surfactant.

[0054] If present, the nonionic surfactant is present in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably 0.1 to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. Therefore, the fabric conditioning composition of the present invention preferably contains 0.1 to 5% by weight of a nonionic surfactant, preferably a fatty alcohol ethoxylate.

[0055] Co-softening agents can be used in fabric conditioning compositions. When used, they are typically present at 0.1 to 20% by weight, and particularly 0.5 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferred co-softening agents include fatty esters and fatty N-oxides. Fatty esters that can be used include fatty monoesters, such as glyceryl monostearate, and fatty glycol esters, such as those disclosed in WO 01 / 46361 (Unilever).

[0056] The compositions of the present invention may contain a fat chelating agent. Particularly suitable fat chelating agents include fatty alcohols and fatty acids. Fatty alcohols are the most preferred. Preferably, the compositions of the present invention contain 0.5 to 20% by weight of flavoring material, more preferably 1 to 15% by weight of flavoring material, and most preferably 2 to 10% by weight of flavoring material.

[0057] The fabric conditioning agent composition is preferably in an aqueous form. The composition preferably contains 75 to 95% by weight of water.

[0058] Fabric conditioning compositions can be used to treat fabrics during hand washing or machine washing. Preferably, the fabric conditioning agent is used during the rinsing stage of the washing process.

[0059] Preferably, for garments with a load of 4 to 7 kg, the garments are treated with a fabric conditioner at a dose of 10 to 100 ml. More preferably, for garments with a load of 4 to 7 kg, 10 to 80 ml is used.

[0060] Dishwashing Composition

[0061] The compositions of the present invention can be used for the maintenance of kitchen items, such as utensils and tableware, which can be cleaned using a dishwashing composition, preferably in liquid form. Various components other than the essential components described in the present invention are summarized below. Among the various components, anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and water-soluble co-solubilizers detailed in the liquid laundry detergent composition can be used in the liquid dishwashing composition. Additionally, other components that may be included are detailed below:

[0062] Preferably, the composition further comprises an amphoteric surfactant. Preferably, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from alkylamine oxides, alkyl betaines, alkylamidopropyl betaines, alkyl sulfobetaine (sulfobetaine), alkyl glycinates, alkyl carboxyglycinates, alkyl amphoteric acetates, alkyl amphoteric propions, alkyl amphoteric glycinates, alkylamidopropyl hydroxysulfobetaine, acyl taurate, and acyl glutamate, having an alkyl group containing about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms, the term "alkyl" used for alkyl moieties including higher acyl groups. More preferably, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from alkylamidopropyl betaines, even more preferably cocamidopropyl betaines. When included, the amphoteric surfactant may be present in an amount preferably from 0.1 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.1 to 4% by weight, even more preferably from 1 to 3% by weight. Mixtures of any of the above materials may also be used. A good combination of surfactants used in the form of dishwashing compositions of the present invention is a combination of 1 to 30% by weight of an anionic surfactant and 0.1 to 5% by weight of an amphoteric surfactant.

[0063] The liquid dishwashing composition may preferably contain an organic acid or a salt thereof, including citric acid or a salt thereof. Preferably, the organic acid or a salt thereof may further include succinic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, hexanoic acid, cyclohexaneic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, 4-methyloctanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, benzoic acid, 4-methoxybenzoic acid, and mixtures thereof. Examples of organic acid salts include the corresponding salts of these organic acids, preferably formed with sodium and potassium, more preferably with sodium, such as trisodium citrate. More preferably, the organic acid or a salt thereof may further contain maleic acid or a salt thereof. Even more preferably, the organic acid or a salt thereof is selected from citric acid or a salt thereof, such as trisodium citrate. Preferably, the composition does not contain silver dihydrogen citrate.

[0064] The composition contains 0.2 to 5% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 4% by weight, more preferably 0.4 to 3% by weight, even more preferably 0.5 to 3% by weight, and even more preferably 1 to 2% by weight of an organic acid or its salt, including citric acid or its salt.

[0065] Preferably, the liquid dishwashing composition further comprises 5 to 99% by weight, more preferably 10 to 90% by weight, even more preferably 15 to 80% by weight, even more preferably 20 to 70% by weight, still more preferably 30 to 65% by weight, still more preferably 35 to 60% by weight, still more preferably 40 to 55% by weight of water.

[0066] Preferably, the liquid dishwashing composition further comprises one or more chelating agents. Preferably, the composition comprises a chelating agent present in an amount of 0.1 to 5% by weight, more preferably 0.25 to 4% by weight, and even more preferably 0.5 to 2.5% by weight.

[0067] Preferred chelating agents are phosphonic acids or their salts. Phosphonic acid (or its salt) chelating agents are preferably selected from 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP; commercially available as Dequest® 2010), diethylenetriaminepenta (DTPMP; commercially available as Dequest® 2066), hexamethylenediaminetetra(methylenephosphonic acid) (HDTMP), aminotri(methylenephosphonic acid) (ATMP), ethylenediaminetetra(methylenephosphonic acid) (EDTMP), tetramethylenediaminetetra(methylenephosphonic acid) (TDTMP); and phosphonobutanetricarboxylic acid (PBTC). The most preferred chelating agent is 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP). It is preferred that the chelating agent be added to the formulation in acid form.

[0068] Optionally, the liquid dishwashing composition further comprises an enzyme, with or without a suitable enzyme stabilizer. Preferably, the composition further comprises an effective amount of at least one enzyme, with or without a suitable enzyme stabilizer. Examples of suitable enzymes include pectinase, protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase, and mannanase; with or without a suitable stabilizer.

[0069] Preferably, the viscosity of the composition can be maintained at 25°C for 21 seconds. -1 Suitable at shear rates in the range of about 200 to about 10,000 mPa·s. This shear rate is the shear rate typically applied to the liquid when poured from the bottle. Pourable liquid home care compositions typically have a viscosity of 200 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s, preferably 100 mPa·s to 800 mPa·s.

[0070] The liquid dishwashing composition preferably has a pH in the range of 2.0 to 8.0, more preferably 2.5 to 7.5, more preferably 3.0 to 7.0, even more preferably 3.5 to 7.0, further more preferably 4.0 to 7.5, still more preferably 4.5 to 7.5, still more preferably 5.0 to 7.5, still more preferably 5.5 to 7.5, and still more preferably 6.0 to 6.5.

[0071] The liquid dishwashing composition may further comprise one or more polymers. Preferably, the polymer can be a cationic, anionic, amphoteric, or nonionic type with a molecular weight greater than 100,000 Daltons. They are known to improve the viscosity and stability of the liquid composition to enhance the skin feel during and after use, and to enhance foam creaminess and foam stability. Examples of polymers include polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, silanes, siloxanes, and mixtures thereof. If present, the polymer may be present in the composition in an amount preferably from 0.001 to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.1 to 6% by weight, and even more preferably from 1 to 3% by weight.

[0072] Preferably, the composition can be used as is (i.e., net form) or it can be diluted before use. The degree of dilution usually depends on market preference. In some markets, a more concentrated product is desired, while in others, a more diluted product is preferred. When the composition is a liquid dishwashing composition, it is typically diluted with water at a weight ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1:10.

[0073] Liquid dishwashing compositions may optionally contain ingredients such as fragrances, colorants, foam promoters, and odor-absorbing materials.

[0074] General or toilet cleaner

[0075] The compositions of this invention can be formulated into general-purpose cleaners, typically used for cleaning floors (in this case, they may be referred to as floor cleaners) or for cleaning toilets (in this case, they may be referred to as toilet cleaners). They can also be used to clean other hard surfaces, such as furniture, tabletops, kitchen countertops, and other surfaces in homes, offices, restaurants, and other public places. Such compositions preferably include cationic surfactants, which, in addition to providing cleaning benefits, ensure immediate disinfection, i.e., killing or inactivating germs.

[0076] Preferably, the cationic surfactant is a quaternary ammonium surfactant, which is preferably selected from one or more of the following: alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (ADBAC) (also known as benzalkonium chloride (BKC)), bis(C8-C18) alkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride (preferably dialcyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC)), cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC), cetylpyridine chloride (CPC), cetrimonium bromide, benzyl chloride (BZE); and dimethyl di-octadecyl ammonium chloride. A preferred aspect of the invention provides a cationic surfactant selected from one or more of BKC or DDAC, preferably BKC.

[0077] The aforementioned quaternary ammonium surfactants can be obtained as a single quaternary ammonium compound or as a mixture of two or more different quaternary ammonium compounds, for example, under the trademark BARDAC. TM , and (All provided by Lonza); and (Provided by Stepan). Quaternary ammonium compounds available as single quaternary ammonium compounds include dialcyldimethylammonium chloride (available as BARDAC). TM 2250R and 1010 was obtained, all with 50% activity; and as a BARDAC TM 2280R and 1010-80 obtained, all with 80% activity), alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (can be used as) MB-50, MX-50 OJ-50 3500 50. 50E, 65. 776、 824、 835 was obtained; each had 50% activity; and it can be used as... MB-80 MX-80 3500-80 8248、 8358 was obtained; each had 80% activity.

[0078] When formulated as a general-purpose or toilet cleaner, the composition preferably contains 0.001 to 3% by weight, more preferably 0.1 to 2% by weight of a cationic surfactant.

[0079] Amphoteric surfactants and chelating agents may be included in the floor cleaner and toilet cleaner compositions of this invention. Details regarding the various types of amphoteric surfactants and chelating agents are the same as those given in the liquid dishwashing compositions section. The general-purpose cleaners and toilet cleaners may be diluted before use. When diluted, they may be diluted with water at a weight ratio ranging from 1:10 to 1:1000.

[0080] The compositions of the present invention can also be provided as rim blocks. A rim block is a shaped solid composition typically suspended in a plastic cage-like container on the rim of a toilet bowl, such that with each flush, a certain amount of water passes over the solid composition, thereby eroding a portion of it before it enters the toilet bowl. The toilet rim block preferably also includes a fragrance to provide a lasting, pleasant odor after each toilet flush.

[0081] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for cleaning a surface and ensuring that insects are not attracted to the surface for a long period of time, for example, up to 24 hours after cleaning, the method comprising the step of contacting the surface with a composition as described in any one of the preceding claims, the composition preferably being diluted with water.

[0082] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of the compositions of the invention for cleaning surfaces and controlling insects.

[0083] The invention will now be described with the aid of the following non-limiting embodiments.

[0084] Example

[0085] Example A: The effect of a composition containing essential oils on insect control over time.

[0086] Prepare the compositions shown in Table 1 (Example A).

[0087] Table 1

[0088]

[0089]

[0090] The lemongrass oil used in the compositions shown in Table 1 above contains 20-30% by weight of citral and 5-7% by weight of limonene.

[0091] The composition of Example A (as shown in Table 1 above) was used to measure insect control using the protocol given below:

[0092] Insect preparation

[0093] At least one hour before the experiment begins, ants are manually collected from the insect rearing room into plastic containers.

[0094] processing method

[0095] The experiment was conducted on an area measuring approximately 55cm × 55cm, defined by a wooden frame measuring approximately 55×55×10cm (length × width × height). The defined area was divided into two precise half-regions by marking, which served as the boundaries for treatment and control. The surface was wiped with 2% glucose before application of the test sample. One hour later, the test sample was applied to the test surface of one of the half-regions at the recommended dose (1ml). The amount of test sample applied was assessed based on the pre- and post-container weights.

[0096]

[0097] Experimental Procedure

[0098] The test sample was evenly applied to the surface the day before the experiment. Approximately 16 / 24 hours after application, a total of 20 ants were released in the center of the experimental area and allowed to acclimatize for 10 minutes. To test samples without probiotics, observations were taken at 1, 4, and 6 hours after product application to the tiles. An infrared light source was used to avoid interference from variations in natural light. Ants were monitored for 1 hour and then removed from the site. After each time point, the insects were gently collected and kept for mortality observation.

[0099] Assessment and prevention calculations

[0100] The number of ants on treated and untreated surfaces was observed.

[0101] Table 2

[0102]

[0103]

[0104] The data in Table 2 above indicate that compositions containing only essential oils as active insect control substances are effective for only about 1 to 4 hours, and become ineffective at about 6 hours.

[0105] Example 1: The effect of a composition containing a mixture of essential oils and Bacillus spores on insect control over time. Effect

[0106] The compositions shown in Table 3 were prepared (Example 1).

[0107] Table 3

[0108] Element weight% Plantacare 2000UP (decyl glucoside) 1.50 Sodium hydroxide 0.05 Bacillus spore composition 0.001 Carbomer 0.20 Lemongrass oil 0.26 water Up to 100

[0109] The bacterial spores in the table above are expressed in terms of 1×10⁻⁶. 7 It is used at a concentration of CFU / ml and is a mixture of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus pumilus in a ratio of 1:1:1:1.

[0110] The lemongrass oil used in the compositions shown in Table 3 above contains 20-30% by weight of citral and 5-7% by weight of limonene.

[0111] The composition of Example-1 (as shown in Table-3 above) was used to measure insect control using the previously given protocol:

[0112] The data is summarized in Table 4 below.

[0113] Table 4:

[0114]

[0115] The data in Table 4 above show that the combination of essential oils and bacterial Bacillus spores is effective as an insect control active substance for up to 8 hours.

[0116] Further data were generated at 16 hours and 24 hours using the same composition, and the data are summarized in Table 5 below:

[0117] Table 5

[0118]

[0119]

[0120] The data in Table 5 above show that the composition according to the invention (Example 1) is effective in controlling insects for up to 16 to 24 hours.

Claims

1. A composition for cleaning surfaces and controlling insects, comprising... (i) 0.000005 to 1% by weight of Bacillus spores; (ii) 0.001 to 1.0% by weight of one or more essential oil components selected from menthol, citronellol, neraldehyde, geraniol, citral, β-caryophyllene, and limonene; and (iii) Surfactants; The Bacillus spores mentioned therein are a combination of bacterial spores from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus subtilis.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the bacterial spores further comprise one or both of Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus thuringiensis.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the combination of bacterial spores comprises Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus thuringiensis.

4. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ingredient is present in the form of one or more essential oils selected from lemongrass oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil and thyme oil.

5. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant is selected from one or more of anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants and nonionic surfactants, preferably anionic surfactants or nonionic surfactants.

6. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the anionic surfactant is one or more of alkyl ether sulfates, linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, and primary alkyl sulfate surfactants.

7. The composition according to claim 5 or 6, comprising 1 to 30% by weight of an anionic surfactant.

8. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the cationic surfactant is alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride.

9. The composition according to claim 8, comprising 0.005 to 2% by weight of a cationic surfactant.

10. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the nonionic surfactant is an alcohol ethoxylate.

11. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, which is in liquid form and contains 70 to 97% by weight water.

12. A method for cleaning a surface and ensuring that insects are prevented from being attracted to the surface for up to 24 hours after cleaning, the method comprising the step of contacting the surface with a composition according to any one of the preceding claims, the composition preferably being diluted with water.

13. Use of the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 11 for cleaning surfaces and controlling insects.

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