Laundry composition

Abstract

An aqueous transparent fabric conditioner comprising: a) 1 to 25 wt% of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound; and b) from 6 to 20% by weight of a single long chain quaternary ammonium compound comprising a hydroxyl group wherein the unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound comprises at least two chains derived from fatty acids wherein the single long chain quaternary ammonium compound comprising a hydroxyl group has a long chain comprising from 4 to 22 carbons, and wherein the composition has a turbidity value of from 0 to 10 NTU.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to conditioning agents for transparent fabrics. Background Technology

[0002] Transparent fabric conditioners are desirable for some consumer groups. However, formulating transparent fabric conditioners is challenging. Ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds, commonly used as active ingredients in fabric softening, are inherently unstable, often resulting in unclear or cloudy formulations. Producing stable and effective fabric softening compositions is a challenge for formulators.

[0003] US5525245 discloses a clear fabric softener microemulsion composition comprising a combination of a diester quaternary ammonium surfactant, a diaminoammonium surfactant, and a selected organic solvent. These microemulsions are converted into a coarse emulsion by dilution with water in a rinsing cycle to provide a fabric softening treatment.

[0004] US20220154106 discloses a liquid conditioning composition comprising an alkyl ester quaternary ammonium softening active substance.

[0005] CN107129882A discloses a transparent laundry detergent composition with softening properties and its preparation method. Summary of the Invention

[0006] It has been found that a combination of two different quaternary ammonium compounds produces a stable, transparent formulation.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this application, a water-based transparent fabric conditioning agent is provided, comprising: a) 1 to 25% by weight of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds; b) 6 to 20% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups. The unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound comprises at least two chains derived from fatty acids. The single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups has a long chain containing 4 to 22 carbons. The composition has a turbidity value of 0 to 10 NTU.

[0008] In another aspect of this application, a method for preparing an aqueous transparent fabric conditioning agent is provided, wherein: i) Mix 6 to 20% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups with water and heat to a temperature of 40°C to 80°C; then ii) Add 1 to 25% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound. Invention Details These and other aspects, features, and advantages will become clear to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description and appended claims. For the avoidance of doubt, 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 of”. In other words, the listed steps or options need not be exhaustive. Note that the examples given in the following description are intended to illustrate the invention and not to limit the invention to those examples alone. Similarly, unless otherwise stated, all percentages are weight / weight percentages. Except in the operational and comparative examples or where otherwise expressly indicated, all figures indicating the amount of material or reaction conditions, physical properties of the material, and / or uses in this specification may optionally be understood to be modified by the word “about”. Numerical ranges expressed in the format “from x to y” should be understood to include both x and y. When multiple preferred ranges are described in the format “from x to y” for a particular feature, it should be understood that all ranges combining different endpoints are also covered.

[0010] The compositions described herein are aqueous. Aqueous is defined as a composition containing 50 to 93% by weight of water, preferably more than 52 to 92% by weight, and more preferably 55 to 90% by weight of water.

[0011] The compositions described herein are transparent. Transparency is defined by the turbidity of the formulation. Formulations with a turbidity less than 10 NTU (turbidimetric turbidity units) are considered transparent. Turbidity can be measured using a turbidimeter, such as a turbidimeter from Merck.

[0012] A particularly suitable turbidimeter is the TURBI QUANT 1100 IR (portable turbidimeter) available from MERCK. This turbidimeter uses white or broadband light with a spectral output ranging from 400 nm to 680 nm. The sensor is positioned at a 90° angle to the light source and measures the intensity of the scattered light. The amount of scattered light is directly proportional to the number of particles present in the sample.

[0013] The compositions described herein comprise 1 to 25% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound.

[0014] Preferably, the fabric conditioning agent comprises more than 2% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound, more preferably more than 3% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound. Preferably, the fabric conditioning agent of the present invention comprises less than 22% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound based on the weight of the composition, more preferably less than 20% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound, and most preferably less than 18% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound active substance. Suitably, the fabric conditioning agent comprises 1 to 25% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound based on the weight of the composition, preferably 2 to 22% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound, more preferably 3 to 20% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound, and most preferably 3 to 18% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound.

[0015] The unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound preferably contains at least one chain derived from a fatty acid, more preferably at least two chains derived from fatty acids. Preferably, the fatty acid is defined as an aliphatic monocarboxylic acid having a chain of 4 to 28 carbons. Fatty acids can be derived from various sources, such as animal fats or plant sources. Preferably, the fatty acid chain is derived from a plant.

[0016] The quaternary ammonium compound with unsaturated ester linkage contains unsaturation. Preferably, 50 to 90% by weight of the fatty acid is monounsaturated (containing one carbon-carbon double bond), diunsaturated (containing two carbon-carbon double bonds), or polyunsaturated (containing more than two carbon-carbon double bonds).

[0017] The preferred unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound is an ester-linked triethanolamine (TEA) quaternary ammonium compound. More preferably, the unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound comprises a mixture of monoester, diester, and trimer-linking components.

[0018] The first group of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention are represented by formula (I): Each R is independently selected from C5 to C35 alkyl or alkenyl; R1 represents C1 to C4 alkyl, C2 to C4 alkenyl, or C1 to C4 hydroxyalkyl; T can be O-CO (i.e., an ester group bonded to R via its carbon atom) or CO-O (i.e., an ester group bonded to R via its oxygen atom); n is a number selected from 1 to 4; m is a number selected from 1, 2, or 3; and X- is an anionic counterion, such as a halide ion or an alkyl sulfate ion, such as a chloride ion or a methyl sulfate ion. Diester variants of Formula I (i.e., m=2) are preferred and generally have associated monoester and trimer ester analogs. These substances are particularly suitable for the present invention.

[0019] The second group of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds applicable to this invention are represented by formula (II): Each R1 group is independently selected from C1 to C4 alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or C2 to C4 alkenyl; and each R2 group is independently selected from C8 to C28 alkyl or alkenyl; and n, T, and X- are as defined above.

[0020] The third group of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds applicable to this invention are represented by formula (III): Each R1 group is independently selected from C1 to C4 alkyl or C2 to C4 alkenyl; and each R2 group is independently selected from C8 to C28 alkyl or alkenyl; and n, T, and X are as defined above. Preferred materials of this third group include bis(2-tallowyloxyethyl)dimethylammonium chloride, its partially cured and cured forms.

[0021] Specific examples of the third group of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds are represented by formula (IV): (IV) The fourth group of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds applicable to this invention are represented by formula (V): (V) R1 and R2 are independently selected from C10 to C22 alkyl or alkenyl groups, preferably C14 to C20 alkyl or alkenyl groups. X - as defined above.

[0022] The iodine value of the unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound is preferably 70-130, more preferably 80-120, and most preferably 80-110. The iodine value can be appropriately selected.

[0023] If the composition contains a mixture of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds, the iodine value mentioned above represents the average iodine value of the parent fatty acyl compound or fatty acid of all unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound materials present.

[0024] As used in the context of this invention, iodine value refers to the degree of unsaturation present in the material of the fatty acids of the group used to generate unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds, as measured by NMR spectroscopy as described in Johnson and Shoolery's Anal Chem., 34, 1136 (1962).

[0025] The compositions described herein comprise 6 to 20% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups. Preferably, the compositions comprise 6.5 to 18% by weight, and most preferably 7 to 14% by weight, of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups. Preferably, the single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound does not contain ester bonds. Preferably, the long chain of the single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound comprises 4 to 22 carbons, preferably 6 to 20 carbons, more preferably 8 to 18 carbons, and most preferably 10 to 14 carbons.

[0026] A single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound is preferably represented by the following formula (VII): (VII) Where R 1 It is a long chain containing 4 to 22 carbons, preferably 6 to 20 carbons, more preferably 8 to 18 carbons, and most preferably 10 to 14 carbons.

[0027] R 2 Contains a hydroxyl group. R is preferred. 2 Including (CH2) 1-6 OH, preferably (CH2) 1-4 OH, with (CH2)2OH being the preferred choice.

[0028] R 3 and R 4 It is independently selected from hydrogen, C1 to C4 alkyl or C1 to C4 hydroxyl. C1-C4 alkyl is preferred, and CH3 is most preferred.

[0029] The counter ion can be chloride ions as shown in formula (VII) or any other suitable anion.

[0030] The compositions described herein preferably contain nonionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants further improve the transparency of the formulation. Preferably, the nonionic surfactant has a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 8 to 16, more preferably 9 to 14, and most preferably 10 to 13. Preferably, the composition contains 1 to 25% by weight of a nonionic surfactant with a HLB value of 8 to 16, more preferably 2 to 20% by weight, and most preferably 3 to 15% by weight of a nonionic surfactant with a HLB value of 8 to 16.

[0031] Preferably, the nonionic surfactant is an alcohol selected from alcohol ethoxylates or alcohol propoxylates, more preferably alcohol ethoxylates. Preferably, the alcohol chain contains 5 to 20 carbon atoms, more preferably 6 to 18 carbon atoms, even more preferably 7 to 16 carbon atoms, and most preferably 8 to 14 carbon atoms. Preferably, the nonionic surfactant comprises 2 to 30 oxylate groups, more preferably 2 to 20 oxylate groups, and most preferably 2 to 15 oxylate groups.

[0032] The compositions described herein preferably contain a solvent. The solvent further improves the transparency of the formulation. The compositions described herein preferably contain 6 to 25% by weight of a solvent having a pressure of 4 to 22 MPa. 1 / 2 Hansen solubility parameter δ P Polarity parameters and 5 to 30 MPa 1 / 2 δ H Hydrogen bonding parameters. Preferably, the composition comprises 6.5 to 20% by weight of solvent, most preferably 7 to 15% by weight of solvent, the solvent having a pressure of 4 to 22 MPa. 1 / 2 Hansen solubility parameter δ P Polarity parameters and 5 to 30 MPa 1 / 2 δ H Hydrogen bonding parameters.

[0033] Hansen solubility parameters can be obtained from literature or calculated using software such as Hansen Solubility Parameters in Practice (HSPiP). Preferably, δ P Polarity parameters are 5 to 15 MPa 1 / 2 More preferably 5.5 to 12 MPa 1 / 2 Preferably, δ H The hydrogen bonding parameter is 6 to 26 MPa. 1 / 2 More preferably 6.5 to 24 MPa 1 / 2 .

[0034] Preferably, the solvent is organic. Most preferably, the solvent is selected from: monopropylene glycol, benzyl alcohol, 2-pentanol, propylene glycol propyl ether, hexanediol, and combinations thereof.

[0035] The compositions described herein preferably contain fragrances, i.e., free or unencapsulated fragrances. Preferably, the composition contains 0.2 to 20% by weight of the fragrance, more preferably 0.5 to 15% by weight, and most preferably 0.75 to 10% by weight of the fragrance.

[0036] Available fragrance components may include substances of both natural and synthetic origin. These include single compounds and mixtures. Particularly preferred fragrance components are blooming and substantive fragrance components. Blooming fragrance components are defined by a boiling point below 250°C and a LogP greater than 2.5. Substantive fragrance components are defined by a boiling point above 250°C and a LogP greater than 2.5. Boiling points are measured at standard pressure (760 mm Hg). Preferably, the fragrance composition may comprise a mixture of blooming and substantive fragrance components. The fragrance composition may also contain other fragrance components.

[0037] Commonly, multiple fragrance components are present in free fragrance compositions. In the compositions used in this invention, it is envisioned that three or more, preferably four or more, more preferably five or more, and even more preferably six or more different fragrance components may be present. The applicable upper limit is 300 fragrance components.

[0038] The composition may contain other ingredients known to those skilled in the art as fabric conditioning liquids. A non-limiting list of such ingredients includes: defoamers, insect repellents, light-blocking or color-correcting dyes, preservatives (e.g., bactericides), pH buffers, fragrance carriers, water-soluble growth promoters, anti-redeposition agents, detergents, polyelectrolytes, anti-shrinkage agents, anti-wrinkle agents, antioxidants, dyes, colorants, sunscreens, corrosion inhibitors, draping agents, antistatic agents, chelating agents, and ironing auxiliaries. The products of this invention may contain pearlescent agents and / or light-blocking agents. A preferred chelating agent is HEDP, an abbreviation for etidronic acid or 1-hydroxyethane-1,1-bisphosphonic acid.

[0039] The compositions described herein can be prepared by mixing a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups with water and heating to a temperature of 40°C to 80°C, preferably 50°C to 70°C, and most preferably 55°C to 65°C; then adding 1 to 20% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound. Preferably, the composition is cooled to a temperature below 40°C before adding any fragrance. Any additional ingredients can be added at any stage, preferably together with the single long-chain ammonium compound.

[0040] Example Table 1: Fabric Conditioner Formulations

[0041] Single long-chain quaternary ammonium compounds containing hydroxyl groups 1 - Praepagen HY - Alkyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium chloride, derived from Clariant.

[0042] Unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds 2- TETRANYL AO-1, ​​derived from Kao.

[0043] A fabric conditioner was prepared by mixing citric acid, Praepagen HY, and water, and the mixture was heated to 65°C with stirring. TETRANYL AO-1 was added and stirring continued to form a clear and isotropic solution. The temperature was then lowered to 45°C, and a fragrance oil was added with further mixing.

[0044] The turbidity of the preparation was assessed using a portable turbidimeter (TURBI QUANT 1100 IR) purchased from Merck. The sample was placed in a 10 ml cuvette and inserted into the cuvette shaft. A check was performed to ensure that no air bubbles were present in the sample before starting the analysis. The turbidity was then determined using a method conforming to US EPA 180.1.

[0045] Table 2: Results

[0046] When the formulation contains more than 4% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups, the turbidity of the formulation is significantly improved.

Claims

1. A water-based transparent fabric conditioner, comprising: i 1 to 25% by weight of unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compounds; and ii. 6 to 20% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing a hydroxyl group. The unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound comprises at least two chains derived from fatty acids. The single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups has a long chain containing 4 to 22 carbons. The composition has a turbidity value of 0 to 10 NTU.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound has an iodine value of 5 to 80.

3. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound is represented by the following formula: Where R 1 It is a long chain containing 4 to 22 carbon atoms; R 2 Contains hydroxyl groups; and R 3 and R 4 It is independently selected from hydrogen, C1 to C4 alkyl or C1 to C4 hydroxyl; preferably C1-C4 alkyl, most preferably CH3.

4. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises a nonionic surfactant having a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 8 to 16.

5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the composition comprises 1 to 25% by weight of a nonionic surfactant having a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 8 to 16.

6. The composition according to claim 4, wherein the nonionic surfactant having a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 8 to 16 is selected from ethoxylates or alcohol propoxylates.

7. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises a solvent having a pressure of 4 to 22 MPa. 1 / 2 Hansen solubility parameter δ P Polarity parameters and 5 to 30 MPa 1 / 2 δ H Hydrogen bonding parameters.

8. The composition of claim 7, wherein the composition comprises 6 to 25% by weight of a solvent having a pressure of 4 to 22 MPa. 1 / 2 Hansen solubility parameter δ P Polarity parameters and 5 to 30 MPa 1 / 2 δ H Hydrogen bonding parameters.

9. The composition according to claim 7, wherein the solvent is organic.

10. The composition according to claim 7, wherein the solvent is selected from: monopropylene glycol, benzyl alcohol, 2-pentanol, propylene glycol propyl ether, hexanediol, and combinations thereof.

11. A method for preparing an aqueous transparent fabric conditioning agent according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: i. Mix 6 to 20% by weight of a single long-chain quaternary ammonium compound containing hydroxyl groups with water and heat to a temperature of 40°C to 80°C; then ii. Add 1 to 25% by weight of an unsaturated ester-linked quaternary ammonium compound.

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