Uses, methods and compositions

Abstract

Use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

Description

[0001] field This invention relates to surfactant compositions that do not readily discolor over time (e.g., during storage), and that the surfactant compositions may be transparent. The invention also relates to the use of chelating agents in surfactant compositions to provide transparency and / or substantial prevention of discoloration. Background Technology

[0002] Surfactants are widely used in many industrial sectors and products, including personal care, household, and industrial products. It is desirable, especially for consumers, that products containing surfactants have an appealing appearance. However, in some cases, consumers notice that surfactants and surfactant-containing compositions may have instability-related issues (e.g., during storage), which can lead to discoloration. Yellowing is a common occurrence. This discoloration can be undesirable for both consumers and manufacturers using surfactants or surfactant compositions. Therefore, it is desirable for surfactants and surfactant compositions to maintain their stability and not discolor during storage. In some cases, it is also desirable to provide transparent surfactant compositions.

[0003] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a surfactant composition that does not easily change color significantly during storage. Another object of the present invention is to provide a transparent surfactant composition, such as a transparent surfactant composition that does not easily change color significantly during storage. Invention Overview According to various aspects of the invention, uses, methods, and compositions as described in the appended claims are provided. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the description below.

[0005] The inventors have discovered that discoloration of surfactant compositions can be caused by the degradation (e.g., during storage) of one or more additives contained in the composition, such as chelating agents. For example, some chelating agents (e.g., phosphonate-based chelating agents) may degrade and thus discolor during storage, typically causing discoloration in surfactant compositions containing such chelating agents. However, the inventors have discovered that chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof do not cause discoloration of the surfactant composition.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided the use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration of a surfactant composition, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a transparent surfactant composition is provided, comprising: (i) 15 to 98% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of a chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a personal or household cleaning composition is provided, comprising a transparent surfactant composition according to a third aspect.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing a transparent surfactant composition according to the third aspect is provided, the method comprising mixing at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate of formula (I), at least one betaine surfactant, and at least one chelating agent in amounts described in the third aspect.

[0011] Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the description below.

[0012] The features described in the second, third, fourth, and fifth aspects may have any suitable features and advantages described in the first aspect. Invention Details Unless otherwise stated, the following terms used in this specification and claims have the meanings described below.

[0014] As used herein, the term "hydrocarbon group" is used in its conventional meaning as known to those skilled in the art. Specifically, it refers to a group having a carbon atom directly attached to the rest of the molecule and having predominantly hydrocarbon properties. Examples of hydrocarbon groups include hydrocarbon groups, namely aliphatic groups (which may be saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched, such as alkyl or alkenyl), alicyclic groups (such as cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl), and aromatic groups (such as phenyl).

[0015] The term "alkyl" includes both straight-chain and branched alkyl groups. References to a single alkyl group (e.g., "propyl") refer only to the straight-chain version, while references to a specific branched alkyl group (e.g., "isopropyl") refer only to the branched version. For example, "C3-C..." 35 "alkyl" includes C 10 -C 35 Alkyl, C4-C6 alkyl, propyl, isopropyl, and tert-butyl.

[0016] The term "alkenyl" includes both straight-chain and branched alkenyl groups. References to a single alkenyl group (e.g., "propenyl") refer only to the straight-chain version, while references to a single branched alkenyl group (e.g., "isopropenyl") refer only to the branched version. For example, "C3-C..." 35 "Alkenyl" includes C 10 -C 35 Alkenyl, C4-C6 alkenyl, propenyl and isopropenyl.

[0017] The term "alkoxy" includes both straight-chain and branched-chain alkoxy groups. References to individual alkoxy groups (e.g., "propoxy") refer only to the straight-chain version, while references to individual branched-chain alkoxy groups (e.g., "isopropoxy") refer only to the branched-chain version. For example, "C1-C4 alkoxy" includes C1-C2 alkoxy, propoxy, isopropoxy, and tert-butoxy.

[0018] The term "aryl" refers to a cyclic or polycyclic aromatic ring having 5 to 12 carbon atoms. Examples of aryl groups include, but are not limited to, phenyl, biphenyl, and naphthyl. In certain embodiments, the aryl group may be phenyl.

[0019] The term "C8-C" 22 Alkyl-C6-C 12 "Aryl" refers to a compound with C8-C 22 Alkyl covalently linked C6-C 12 Aryl, both as defined in this article.

[0020] The term "C6-C" 12 Aryl-C8-C 22 "alkyl" refers to a compound with C6-C6. 12 Aryl covalently linked C8-C 22 Alkyl groups, both as defined herein.

[0021] The term "optionally substituted" refers to a specific group (e.g., hydrocarbon, alkyl, alkenyl, alkoxy, or aryl) that the group may be substituted or unsubstituted. Suitable substituents may include non-hydrocarbon groups, provided they do not alter the predominantly hydrocarbon properties of the group. Examples of suitable substituents include C1-4 alkoxy, cyano, hydroxyl, oxo, halogens (especially fluorine and chlorine), trifluoromethyl, and trifluoromethoxy.

[0022] Unless otherwise stated, all hydrocarbon, alkyl, alkenyl, alkoxy, and aryl groups in this document are unsubstituted.

[0023] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided the use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0024] Therefore, the purpose of the first aspect is to provide transparency to the surfactant composition and / or substantially prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition. In other words, in the purpose of the first aspect, the chelating agent serves to make the surfactant composition transparent and / or substantially prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition (i.e., the addition of the chelating agent thereto). In the absence of the chelating agent, the surfactant composition may not be transparent; for example, the surfactant composition may be opaque.

[0025] A first aspect of the invention provides the use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency and substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0026] A first aspect of the invention provides the use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0027] A first aspect of the invention provides the use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0028] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration of a surfactant composition, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided to provide transparency to a surfactant composition and substantially prevent its discoloration, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0030] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for providing transparency to a surfactant composition is provided, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0031] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for fundamentally preventing discoloration of a surfactant composition is provided, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0032] The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide a transparent surfactant composition. The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide the transparent surfactant composition described in the third aspect of the present invention.

[0033] The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can substantially prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition. The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can completely prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition, i.e., prevent discoloration from occurring. The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can provide a transparent surfactant composition and substantially prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition. In other words, when the chelating agent is added to the surfactant composition, the resulting composition can be transparent and can resist significant discoloration (or can remain completely undiscolored), for example, during storage.

[0034] Therefore, it has been surprisingly found that when a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof is added to a surfactant composition, it can make the composition transparent. It has also been surprisingly found that when a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof is added to a surfactant composition, it can prevent any significant discoloration of the composition, or can completely prevent discoloration of the surfactant composition.

[0035] Furthermore, it has been surprisingly found that when a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof is added to a surfactant composition, it can make the composition transparent, and the transparency is maintained over time, without any significant discoloration (or any discoloration at all). In contrast, other chelating agents may not prevent discoloration over time. For example, other chelating agents may provide transparency but cannot prevent discoloration over time. For example, it has been found that the use of phosphonates or phosphonic acid-derived chelating agents can cause discoloration of the surfactant composition. Phosphonates or phosphonic acid-derived chelating agents include aminotrimethylenephosphonic acid (ATMP), ethylenediaminetetra(methylenephosphonic acid) (EDTMP), 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP), and diethylenetriaminepentamethylenephosphonic acid (DTPMPA) and their salts or partial salts.

[0036] Typically, adding a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof to a surfactant composition can provide transparency that is maintained, and wherein discoloration is substantially prevented for a period of time (e.g., during storage of the surfactant composition, i.e., after the addition of the chelating agent). Discoloration can be completely prevented, i.e., it does not occur.

[0037] The term “transparent” (or “transparency”) will be fully understood by those skilled in the art to mean that light can pass through the material or composition, making it possible to see objects clearly behind it.

[0038] As those skilled in the art will understand, transparency can be measured in various ways, such as by measuring the amount of light passing through the sample to provide a transmittance value (%T), or by measuring the scattering of light by the sample to provide a turbidity indication (measured by turbidity units or NTU). Therefore, both transmittance and turbidity values ​​are properties that can be used to indicate whether a sample is transparent. The choice of which method to use to determine whether a sample is transparent will depend on the properties of the sample, such as its composition and whether the sample contains any suspended solids, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0039] Suitable transmittance testing can be performed, for example, using a Photometer 7100 instrument (e.g., available from Palintest), which records the transmittance value as the percentage of visible light passing through the sample, measured, for example, according to the transmittance testing measurement method described in the examples. An opaque sample has a transmittance value of 0%. In this document, compositions with a transmittance value (%T) of 90% or higher are considered transparent.

[0040] Suitable turbidity testing can be performed using a HunterLab Vista instrument, for example, by measuring the turbidity value according to the turbidity value testing method described in the examples. In this document, compositions with a turbidity value less than 10 NTU are considered transparent.

[0041] Therefore, in this document, compositions with a transmittance value (%T) of 90% or higher and / or a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU are considered transparent. Transparent compositions may suitably have a transmittance value (%T) of 90% or higher and a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU.

[0042] Suitably, surfactant compositions comprising chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt (e.g., compositions according to the third aspect of the invention) may have a transmittance value of 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, such as 98% or higher, and most preferably 100% (e.g., measured according to the transmittance test measurement method described in the examples).

[0043] Suitably, surfactant compositions comprising a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof (e.g., compositions according to the third aspect of the invention) may have a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU, suitably less than 5 NTU.

[0044] Suitably, surfactant compositions comprising chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt (e.g., compositions according to the third aspect of the invention) may have a transmittance value of 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, such as 98% or higher, most preferably 100% (e.g., measured according to the transmittance test measurement method described in the examples) and / or a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU, suitably less than 5 NTU.

[0045] For example, a surfactant composition comprising a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof (e.g., a composition according to the third aspect of the invention) may have a transmittance value of 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, such as 98% or higher, most preferably 100% (e.g., measured according to the transmittance test measurement method described in the examples) and a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU, suitably less than 5 NTU.

[0046] Therefore, by “providing or for providing transparency”, we mean that adding a chelating agent to a surfactant composition provides a transparent surfactant composition (i.e., containing the chelating agent in addition to one or more surfactants), as measured by transmittance values ​​(%T) and / or turbidity values.

[0047] Suitablely, the surfactant composition prior to the addition of the chelating agent as defined herein is not transparent, such that the surfactant composition has a transmittance value (%T) of less than 90% and / or a turbidity value of 10 or higher. For example, the surfactant composition prior to the addition of the chelating agent may be opaque, i.e., having a transmittance value (%T) of 0%.

[0048] By "color change," we are referring to unintended coloring. Typically, the color change can be a yellowing, i.e., the sample or surfactant composition turning yellow.

[0049] Yellowing caused by discoloration can be measured by a yellowness index test. This test will be familiar to those skilled in the art. For example, the yellowness index can be measured using a Lovibond® Comparator 2000+ instrument using standard methods of that instrument (e.g., method 1 disclosed in the examples) or using a HunterLab Vista spectrophotometer according to ASTM D5386 (e.g., method 2 disclosed in the examples). These tests record the yellowness index in Hazen or APHA units.

[0050] By "basically preventing discoloration," we mean that any discoloration that occurs is extremely minor, for example, where the yellowness index of the sample or surfactant composition is 125 Hazen units or less, preferably 80 Hazen units or less, for example, after storage for at least 4 weeks (e.g., storage at 25°C for at least 4 weeks and exposure to light). By "completely preventing discoloration," we mean that no discoloration occurs (i.e., zero discoloration).

[0051] The transparent surfactant compositions described herein may be colored or colorless, preferably colorless. By colorless, we mean that the composition lacks a significant color visible to the naked eye when viewed against a white background under white light. The lack of color can be measured using the yellowness test disclosed herein. For example, a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower can be considered colorless. One Hazen unit corresponds to the color produced by 1 milligram of platinum per liter of water (present as a combination of hexachloroplatinate (IV) and cobalt(II) chloride).

[0052] Typically, the discoloration process can be accelerated by exposure to light (e.g., sunlight) and / or storage at temperatures above ambient temperature. Accelerated stability testing methods, such as tests conducted at temperatures above ambient temperature, can be used to provide an indication of long-term stability at ambient temperature.

[0053] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide transparency and / or substantial protection against discoloration after a period of storage (e.g., a period of 1 to 2 years at ambient temperature with or without light exposure, or a period of 1 to 3 years).

[0054] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide transparency and substantially prevent discoloration after a period of storage (e.g., a period of 1 to 2 years at ambient temperature with or without light exposure, or a period of 1 to 3 years).

[0055] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide transparency and / or substantial protection against discoloration after a period of storage (e.g., at a temperature above ambient temperature (e.g., 40 to 50°C, for example, about 45°C) with or without light exposure for at least 2 weeks, for example, at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or a period of at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0056] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide transparency and / or substantial protection against discoloration after a period of storage (e.g., at a temperature below ambient temperature (e.g., 0 to 10°C, for example, about 5°C) with or without light exposure for at least 2 weeks, for example, at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or a period of at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0057] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide transparency and / or substantially prevent discoloration after being stored, for example, at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0058] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide transparency and / or substantially prevent discoloration after being stored, for example, at a temperature below ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0059] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after storage for at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6 or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8 or 12 weeks), for example, at temperatures above ambient temperature and / or after exposure to light.

[0060] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after storage, for example, at a temperature below ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0061] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide transparency and / or substantial protection against discoloration after storage at temperatures above ambient temperature and under light for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0062] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after storage at temperatures above ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6 or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8 or 12 weeks).

[0063] A chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0064] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6 or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8 or 12 weeks).

[0065] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide transparency and / or substantial protection against discoloration after being stored at temperatures below ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0066] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after storage at temperatures above / below ambient temperature and exposure to light for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0067] A chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0068] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6 or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8 or 12 weeks).

[0069] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration after storage at ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of 1 to 2 years, or after a period of 1 to 3 years.

[0070] A chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide a transparent surfactant composition with a transmittance value of 90% or higher and a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after storage at ambient temperature (with or without light exposure) for a period of 1 to 2 years, or after a period of 1 to 3 years.

[0071] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration after being exposed to light and stored for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0072] A chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being exposed to light and stored for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6 or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8 or 12 weeks).

[0073] The use of “exposed to light” in this article can include continuous or intermittent light exposure.

[0074] By ambient temperature, we mean a temperature of approximately 25°C. By temperature above ambient temperature, we mean a temperature above 25°C, such as 26 to 60°C (e.g., 40 to 50°C, or approximately 45°C). By temperature below ambient temperature, we mean a temperature below 25°C, such as 24 to 0°C (e.g., 0 to 10°C, or approximately 5°C).

[0075] Those skilled in the art will recognize that storage at temperatures above ambient (e.g., 40 to 50°C, such as about 45°C) and / or exposure to light will result in accelerated degradation. Storage under such conditions can provide an indication of stability under normal conditions (e.g., storage in a sealed container at ambient temperature). If the composition is stable after 8 weeks of accelerated testing, it is expected to be stable under normal conditions for at least 2 years. If the composition is stable after 12 weeks of accelerated testing, it is expected to be stable under normal conditions for at least 3 years.

[0076] A chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof can provide a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration after being stored at ambient temperature and in a sealed container without light exposure for at least 8 weeks, or at least 12 weeks, such as at least 1 year, preferably at least 2 years, or at least 3 years.

[0077] A chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can provide a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being stored at ambient temperature and in a sealed container without light exposure for at least 1 year, preferably at least 2 years, or at least 3 years.

[0078] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can be stored at 5°C in a sealed container without light exposure for a period of at least 8 weeks, and suitably for a period of at least 12 weeks, to provide a transparent surfactant composition (e.g., turbidity value less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0079] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can be stored at 25°C in a sealed container without light exposure for a period of at least 8 weeks, and suitably for a period of at least 12 weeks, to provide a transparent surfactant composition (e.g., turbidity value less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0080] Chelating agents containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or its salt can be stored at 45°C in a sealed container without light exposure for a period of at least 8 weeks, and suitably for a period of at least 12 weeks, to provide a transparent surfactant composition (e.g., turbidity value less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0081] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition to which a chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof is added may be transparent before the addition of the chelating agent, but generally the surfactant composition becomes transparent after the addition of the chelating agent.

[0082] In the first and second aspects, the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof. The chelating agent may comprise a mixture of two or more aminopolycarboxylic acids or salts thereof. By "aminopolycarboxylic acid or salt thereof," we mean a molecule comprising two or more carboxylic acid moieties or salts thereof and one or more amine moieties. Aminopolycarboxylic acid salts as used herein include aminopolycarboxylic acids in which at least one carboxylic acid moieties are present in salt form. Any suitable aminopolycarboxylic acid or salt thereof can be used as a chelating agent, as will be known to those skilled in the art.

[0083] Suitable aminopolycarboxylic acid chelating agents used herein may comprise 3, 4, or 5 carboxylic acid moieties. Suitable aminopolycarboxylic acid chelating agents used herein may comprise 1, 2, or 3 amine moieties, and these amine moieties may be present as secondary or tertiary amine moieties. Preferably, the aminopolycarboxylic acid chelating group does not contain a phosphonic acid group or a salt thereof.

[0084] The at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid may be selected from one or more of the following: ethylenediamine-N,N'-diglutarate (EDDG), ethylenediamine-N,N'-dimalonic acid (EDDM), iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), L-aspartic acid diacetic acid (ASDA), hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), iminodifumaric acid (IDF), iminoditartaric acid (IDT), iminodimaleic acid (IDMAL), iminodimalic acid (IDM), ethylenediaminedifumaric acid (EDDF), ethylenediaminedimalic acid (EDDM), ethylenediamineditartaric acid (EDDT), and ethylenediaminedimaleic acid (EDDMAL) or their salts.

[0085] The at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid may be selected from one or more of the following: ethylenediamine-N,N'-diglutarate (EDDG), ethylenediamine-N,N'-dimalonic acid (EDDM), iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), and L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), preferably EDTA, EDDS, MGDA, and GLDA, or salts thereof.

[0086] Suitable salts of aminopolycarboxylic acids include amine salts, alkaline earth metal salts, or alkali metal salts. Suitable amine salts include salts of ammonia and triethanolamine. Suitable alkaline earth metal salts include salts of magnesium and calcium. Suitable alkali metal salts include sodium, lithium, and potassium salts. Preferably, the chelating agent is provided in the form of a sodium salt. Suitable salts include partial salts in which one or more, but not all, of the acid groups are present in salt form.

[0087] EDTA has the structure shown in formula (A): (A) When the chelating agent contains EDTA, it can be provided in the form of the structure shown in formula (A), or in the form of the same structure in which multiple hydrogen atoms are substituted. Therefore, the EDTA chelating agent can contain a salt in which one, two, three, or four acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized.

[0088] When using EDTA salts, they can be salts of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, ammonia, or suitable amines.

[0089] When using monovalent counterions, the salt can be a monosalt, disalt, trisalt, or tetrasalt. For divalent cations, monosalts or disalts can be present. Mixed salts can also be present, for example, disodium magnesium salts or sodium magnesium salts can be present. Preferably, the counterions(s) of the EDTA residues are selected from one or more of sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, and quaternary ammonium ions.

[0090] Preferably, when the chelating agent is EDTA, it exists in the form of a tetrasodium salt.

[0091] Ethylenediamine disuccinic acid (EDDS) has the structure shown in formula (B): (B) EDDS contains two stereoisomer centers and exists in three possible stereoisomers. The particularly preferred configuration is [S,S]-ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid, which is readily biodegradable.

[0092] EDDS can have the structure shown in formula (B) and / or a structure in which multiple hydrogen atoms are substituted. Therefore, EDDS can also contain succinates in which one, two, three, or four acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized. It can exist as a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0093] One commercially available material is trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate. The commercial product (Natrlquest E30 (RTM)) is supplied in aqueous solution containing 30% by weight of EDDS (expressed as free acid) or 37% by weight of the trisodium salt (including counterions).

[0094] Another commercially available form of EDDS is tetraacid, sold under the trademark Natrlquest E80. It is supplied in powder form and contains 80% by weight solid [S,S]EDDS as an acid, along with water of crystallization.

[0095] Methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA) has the structure shown in formula (C): (C) MGDA can have the structure shown in formula (C) and / or a structure in which multiple acid protons are substituted, i.e., one, two, or three acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized. It can exist as a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0096] When the chelating agent is MGDA, it can exist in the form of its enantiomers or mixtures. Preferably, it exists in the form of a racemic mixture.

[0097] MGDA is commercially available as a solution containing 40% by weight of trisodium salt and sold under the trademark Trilon M.

[0098] Glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) has the structure shown in formula (D): (D) When the chelating agent contains GLDA, it may have the structure shown in formula (D) and / or a structure in which multiple acid protons are substituted (i.e., one, two, three, or four acid groups are neutralized or partially neutralized). GLDA may exist as a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0099] GLDA can exist in the form of its enantiomers or mixtures. Preferably, at least 50% is present in the form of [S]-GLDA, more preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95% by weight, for example about 98% by weight. Suitably, GLDA consists essentially of the S enantiomer.

[0100] GLDA is commercially available as a solution containing 38% by weight of tetrasodium salt and sold under the trademark Dissolvine GL-38.

[0101] Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) has the structure shown in formula (E): (E) When a chelating agent contains DTPA, it can have the structure shown in formula (E) or the same structure in which multiple hydrogen atoms are substituted. Therefore, DTPA can contain a salt in which 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized.

[0102] Suitable salts of DTPA include salts of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, ammonia, or suitable amines.

[0103] When using monovalent counterions, the salt can be a monosalt, disalt, trisalt, tetrasalt, or pentasalt. For divalent cations, monosalts or disalts can be present. Mixed salts can also be present, for example, disodium magnesium salts or sodium magnesium salts can be present. Preferably, the counterions(s) of the DTPA residues are selected from one or more of sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, and quaternary ammonium ions.

[0104] Preferably, when the chelating agent is DTPA, it exists in the form of a pentasodium salt.

[0105] Iminodisuccinic acid (IDS) has the structure shown in formula (F): (F) When a chelating agent contains IDS, it may have the structure shown in formula (F) and / or a structure in which multiple acid protons are substituted, i.e., one, two, three, or four acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized. IDS may exist in the form of a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0106] IDS or its salts may exist as enantiomers or mixtures thereof. Preferably, they exist as racemic mixtures.

[0107] IDS is commercially available as a solution containing 34% by weight tetrasodium salt and sold under the trademark Baypure CX100.

[0108] L-Aspartic diacetic acid (ASDA) is a structural isomer of IDS and has the structure shown in formula (G): (G) When a chelating agent contains ASDA, it may have the structure shown in formula (G) and / or a structure in which multiple acid protons are substituted, i.e., one, two, three, or four acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized. ASDA may exist as a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0109] Hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (called HEEDTA or HEDTA) has the structure shown in formula (H): (H) When a chelating agent contains HEDTA, it may have the structure shown in formula (H) and / or a structure in which multiple acid protons are substituted, i.e., one, two, or three acid groups have been neutralized or partially neutralized. HEDTA may exist as a free acid or its salt or complex.

[0110] HEDTA is available commercially from Akzo Nobel as a trisodium salt under the trademark Dissolvine H40.

[0111] Preferably, in the first and second aspects, the chelating agent is GLDA or a salt thereof. For example, GLDA can be provided in the form of a trisodium or tetrasodium salt (preferably a tetrasodium salt). GLDA is considered to be bioavailable and biodegradable.

[0112] In the first and second aspects, at least one chelating agent comprising at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof may be added to the surfactant composition in any suitable amount, for example, 0.1 to 10% by weight, such as 0.2 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight, more preferably 1 to 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0113] Chelating agents containing L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or their salts can be added to the surfactant composition in any suitable amount, for example, 0.1 to 10% by weight, such as 0.2 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight, more preferably 1 to 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0114] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise at least one surfactant independently selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, or a mixture of two or more such surfactants.

[0115] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise at least one surfactant independently selected from anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, or mixtures thereof.

[0116] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise two or more surfactants independently selected from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, or a mixture of two or more such surfactants.

[0117] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise two or more surfactants independently selected from anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, or mixtures thereof.

[0118] Suitably, in the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise at least one anionic surfactant and at least one amphoteric surfactant. The surfactant composition may comprise anionic and amphoteric surfactants in a weight ratio ranging from 8:1 to 4.5:1.

[0119] In both the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may contain any suitable anionic surfactant. Such surfactants will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may contain any suitable amount of anionic surfactant, for example, 15 to 98% by weight, such as 25 to 95% by weight, preferably 15 to 40% by weight or more preferably 25 to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0120] The amounts of components in surfactant compositions referenced herein refer to surfactant compositions comprising a chelating agent containing at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0121] Suitable anionic surfactants used in this article include salts of the following substances: fatty acids; alkoxylated carboxylic acids; ester carboxylates; ethoxylated ester carboxylates; monoalkyl or dialkyl sulfates; monoalkyl or dialkyl ether sulfates; lauryl ether sulfates; alkyl sulfonates; alkyl aryl sulfonates; primary alkane disulfonates; olefin sulfonates; hydroxyalkane sulfonates; hydroxyethyl sulfonates; alkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonates; acyl hydroxyethyl sulfonates; acyl alkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonates; alkyl glycerol ether sulfonates; α-olefin sulfonates; alkyl phosphates. Salts; sulfonates of alkylphenol polyglycol ethers; alkyl sulfonyl polycarboxylic acids; alkyl sulfosuccinates; alkyl ether sulfosuccinates; taurines; acyl taurines; acyl alkyl taurines; condensation products of fatty acids with oxo- and amino alkyl sulfonic acids; sulfated derivatives of fatty acids and polyglycols; alkyl and acyl sarcosine salts; sulfoacetates; alkyl phosphates; alkyl phosphate esters; acyl lactates; alkanolamides, lipoamino acids, and acyl-substituted amino acids of sulfated fatty acids, such as acyl glycinate and acyl glutamate. Particularly exemplary salts (where applicable) are salts of sodium, potassium, ammonium, magnesium, and triethanolamine.

[0122] Preferred anionic surfactants include sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, sodium cocoyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium lauroyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium lauroyl glycinate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, sodium lauryl sarcosinate, and disodium dioleoylamino monoisopropanolamine (MIPA) sulfosuccinate.

[0123] The anionic surfactants particularly preferred herein are acyl hydroxyethyl sulfonates, acyl alkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonates, acyl taurates and acyl alkyl taurates, such as sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, sodium cocoyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium lauroyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate.

[0124] When the surfactant composition contains an anionic surfactant, the anionic surfactant may contain at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant, such as an acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + It represents a cation.

[0125] Appropriately, R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 Alkyl, C3-C 35 alkenyl, C6-C 12 Aryl, C8-C 22 Alkyl-C6-C 12 Aryl or C6-C 12 Aryl-C8-C 22 Alkyl group. More appropriately, R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 Alkyl or C3-C 35 Alkenyl groups, especially optional substituted C3-C groups 35 Alkyl group. Most preferably, R 1 Indicates C3-C 35 Alkyl or C3-C 35 Alkenyl groups, especially C3-C 35 alkyl.

[0126] Appropriately, R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 Alkyl or C3-C 35 Alkenyl groups, such as optionally substituted C8-C groups 18 Alkyl or C8-C 18 Alkenyl group.

[0127] Appropriately, R 1 Indicates C3-C 35 Alkyl or C3-C 35 Alkenyl groups, such as C8-C 18 Alkyl or C8-C 18 Alkenyl group.

[0128] Appropriately, R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C5-C 30 Alkyl groups, such as optionally substituted C7-C 24 Alkyl groups, such as optionally substituted C7-C 21 Alkyl groups, preferably optionally substituted C7-C 17 alkyl.

[0129] Appropriately, R 1 Indicates C5-C 30 Alkyl groups, such as C7-C 24 Alkyl groups, such as C7-C 21 Alkyl groups, preferably C7-C 17 alkyl.

[0130] R 1 Suitablely, these are fatty acid residues. Fatty acids obtained from natural oils typically consist of a mixture of fatty acids. For example, fatty acids obtained from coconut oil consist of a mixture of fatty acids, including C... 12 Lauric acid, C 14 Myristic acid, C 16 Palmitic acid, C8 caprylic acid, C 10 Decanoic acid, C 18 Stearic acid and C 18 Oleic acid.

[0131] R 1 It may contain residues of one or more naturally occurring fatty acids and / or one or more synthetic fatty acids. For example, R 1 It can consist essentially of residues of a single fatty acid.

[0132] R 1 Examples of carboxylic acids that can be derived from them include cocoacid, hexanoic acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidic acid, codoleic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and creosotenic acid; naturally occurring fatty acids, such as those obtained from coconut oil, tallow, palm kernel oil, milk fat, palm oil, olive oil, corn oil, flaxseed oil, peanut oil, fish oil, and rapeseed oil; synthetic fatty acids synthesized as chains with a single chain length or a selected chain length distribution; and mixtures thereof. Suitably, R 1 Contains residues of coconut oil acid, residues of mixed fatty acids derived from coconut oil, and / or residues of mixed fatty acids derived from palm kernel oil, and / or residues of mixed fatty acids derived from palm oil. More preferably, R 1 It mainly contains residues of saturated fatty acids with 12 carbon atoms.

[0133] Preferably, R 1 It is a residue of hydrogenated fatty acid, therefore R 1 It basically does not contain alkenes. For example, R 1 This can be provided by residues produced from hydrogenated coconut oil. Therefore, R 1 It can be made by C 12 Lauric acid, C 14 Myristic acid, C 16 Palmitic acid, C8 caprylic acid, C 10 Decanoic acid and C 18 The residues of a mixture of stearic acid are provided. R 1 It can be C8, C 10 C 12 C 14 C 16 and C18 A mixture of alkyl groups, preferably straight-chain alkyl groups, preferably derived from coconut oil. The fatty acids derived from coconut oil contain at least 85% by weight of fatty acids having 12 to 18 carbon atoms. Therefore, R 1 Appropriately contains at least 85% by weight of C 12 -C 18 Alkyl groups. Suitably, in the mixture, most R... 1 The group is C 12 Alkyl group. R 1 It can be provided by topped fatty acids with a selected fatty acid chain length, wherein fatty acids with other chain lengths have been reduced or removed. For example, it can be provided by fatty acids with a predominantly C24-32 ... 12 Alkyl groups as R 1 Top fatty acids of the group.

[0134] R 1 It can be provided by fatty acids obtained from coconut oil and / or palm kernel oil and / or palm oil.

[0135] The acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) can be prepared by any method disclosed in the prior art, such as those described in WO94 / 09763 and WO2005 / 075623.

[0136] In some embodiments, the surfactant composition may contain only a single acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I). In some embodiments, a mixture of two or more acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactants of formula (I) may be present.

[0137] When R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 When any one of them represents an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group, the alkyl group is suitably n-propyl, ethyl, or methyl, for example ethyl or methyl, with methyl being the most preferred.

[0138] Preferably, R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 One of the groups represents an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group, and the remaining groups represent hydrogen. For example, R 2 It can represent an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group, and R 3 R 4 and R 5 It can represent all hydrogen. For example, R 4 It can represent an optionally substituted C1-C4 alkyl group, and R 2 R 3 and R 5It can represent all hydrogen.

[0139] Preferably, R 2 It represents C1-C4 alkyl, and R 3 R 4 and R 5 All represent hydrogen. Preferably, R 4 It represents C1-C4 alkyl, and R 2 R 3 and R 5 All of them represent hydrogen.

[0140] Most preferably, R 2 It represents methyl, and R 3 R 4 and R 5 All represent hydrogen. Most preferably, R 4 It represents methyl, and R 2 R 3 and R 5 All of them represent hydrogen.

[0141] For example, the acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) may be selected from one or more of sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, and sodium oleoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate. Sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate is preferred.

[0142] Appropriately, M + This indicates a metal cation or an optionally substituted ammonium cation, preferably a metal cation. By "optionally substituted ammonium cation," we mean an ammonium cation in which the nitrogen atom can replace one to four optionally substituted hydrocarbon groups. Suitable ammonium cations include NH4+. + And the ammonium cation of triethanolamine. Suitable metal cations include alkali metal cations, such as sodium, lithium, and potassium cations, and alkaline earth metal cations, such as calcium and magnesium cations. Suitablely, M + This indicates an alkali metal cation or an optionally substituted ammonium cation. Preferably, M + This indicates a zinc, potassium, or sodium cation. Most preferably, M... + It represents sodium cation.

[0143] Those skilled in the art will understand that when M + When it is a divalent metal cation, there will be two moles of anions for every mole of cation.

[0144] The acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) may include the reaction product of sodium methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and fatty acid, i.e., formula R 1 COOCHR 2 CHR 4 SO3 - M +The compound in which R 2 and R 4 One is methyl, and the other is hydrogen. Mixtures of these isomers can exist.

[0145] The surfactant composition may comprise a mixture of more than one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I). For example, a mixture of isomers of acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactants of formula (I) may be present. Such a mixture may include, for example, wherein R 2 Indicates C1-C4 alkyl (suitably methyl) and R 3 R 4 and R 5 Acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactants that are all hydrogen and wherein R 4 Indicates C1-C4 alkyl (suitably methyl) and R 2 R 3 and R 5 Acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactants that are entirely composed of hydrogen.

[0146] In particular, the surfactant composition may comprise a mixture of isomers, i.e., formula R 1 COOCH2CHR 4 SO3 - M + The compound in which R 4 Represents C1-C4 alkyl (preferably methyl), and formula R 1 COOCHR 2 CH2SO3 - M + The compound in which R 2 It indicates C1-C4 alkyl (preferably methyl).

[0147] Suitable, this mixture contains approximately 90% of R. 2 It is methyl and R 4 It is a compound of hydrogen and contains about 10% of R. 2 It is hydrogen and R 4 Compounds containing methyl groups.

[0148] The surfactant composition may contain any suitable amount of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, for example, in an amount of 15 to 98% by weight, such as 25 to 95% by weight, preferably 15 to 40% by weight or more preferably 25 to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0149] In both the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise any suitable amphoteric surfactant. Such surfactants will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may comprise any suitable amount of amphoteric surfactant, for example, in an amount of 3 to 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0150] Suitable amphoteric surfactants used in this article include betaines (including sulfobetaine or thiobetaine) and amphoteric acetates. Preferred amphoteric surfactants include amide betaines (including amide sulfobetaine or amide thiobetaine) and amphoteric acetates.

[0151] Suitable amphoteric acetates include diamphoacetates. Amphoteric acetates generally conform to the following formula (II): (II) Amphoteric acetates generally conform to the following formula (III): (III) Where R 6 It is an aliphatic group having 7 to 22 carbon atoms, and M + It is a cation, such as the cation of sodium, potassium, ammonium, or substituted ammonium.

[0152] Suitable acetate-based amphoteric surfactants include lauryl amphoteric acetate; alkyl amphoteric acetate; coconut oil amphoteric (di)acetate; coconut oil amphoteric acetate; coconut oil amphoteric diacetate; sodium coconut oil amphoteric acetate; disodium coconut oil amphoteric diacetate; disodium octanoyl amphoteric diacetate; disodium lauryl amphoteric acetate; sodium lauryl amphoteric acetate; and disodium wheat germ amphoteric diacetate.

[0153] When a surfactant composition contains an amphoteric surfactant, the amphoteric surfactant may contain at least one betaine.

[0154] Suitable betaines can be betaines of formula (IV) (or amide betaines when n is 1): (IV) Where R 7 It is C5 to C 30 Alkyl or alkenyl, R 8 and R 9 Each is independently an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or carboxyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms; m is 2 to 4; n is 0 or 1; X is an alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms optionally substituted with a hydroxyl group; and Y is -CO2. - or -SO3 - .

[0155] Preferably, R 7 It is C 10To C 20 Alkyl or alkenyl. R 7 It can be an alkyl mixture. Suitably, based on the total molar amount of betaine present, at least half, preferably at least three-quarters, of R in molar terms. 7 The group has 10 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0156] R 7 It can be an alkyl mixture derived from coconut oil or palm kernel oil.

[0157] R 8 and R 9 The preferred form is methyl.

[0158] Suitable betaines can be alkyl betaines of formula (V): (V) Where R 7 R 8 and R 9 As specified above.

[0159] The betaine may comprise alkylamido betaine of formula (VI): (VI) Where R 7 R 8 and R 9 As specified above; and m is 2 or 3.

[0160] The betaine may comprise sulfobetaine (or thiobetaine) of formula (VII) or (VIII): (VII); or (VIII) Where R 7 R 8 and R 9 As specified above; and m is 2 or 3; Or, among them -(CH2)3SO3 - quilt These are alternative variations.

[0161] Suitable betaine surfactants include alkylamide betaine; alkyl betaine; C 12 / 14Alkyl dimethyl betaine; cocamidopropyl betaine; tallow bis(hydroxyethyl) betaine; hexadecyl dimethyl betaine; cocamidopropyl sulfonyl betaine; alkyl dimethylamine betaine; cocamidopropyl dimethyl betaine; alkylamideopropyl dimethylamine betaine; cocamidopropyl betaine; lauryl betaine; laurylamideopropyl betaine; cocamidopropyl betaine; laurylamideopropyl betaine; alkylamino betaine; alkylamideopropyl betaine; cocamidopropyl betaine; lauryl betaine; polydimethylsiloxanepropyl PG-betaine; oil-based betaine; N-alkyl dimethyl betaine; cocamidopropyl betaine derivatives, C8 amide betaine; C 12 Amide betaine; lauryl dimethyl betaine; alkylamidopropyl betaine; amide betaine; alkyl betaine; cetyl betaine; oleamidopropyl betaine; isostearamidopropyl betaine; laurylamidopropyl betaine; 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazoline betaine; 2-alkyl-N-carboxyethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazoline betaine; 2-alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazoline betaine; N-alkyl Amamidopropyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)-ammonium betaine; N-alkyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)-ammonium betaine; cocodimethyl betaine; amyloamidopropyl betaine; isostearamidopropyl betaine; myristamidopropyl betaine; palmitamidopropyl betaine; cocamidopropyl hydroxysulfonyl betaine; undecenoenamidopropyl betaine; cocamidosulfonyl betaine; alkylamido betaine; C 12 / 18 Alkylamidopropyl dimethylamine betaine; lauryl dimethyl betaine; ricinol amide betaine; tallow amide betaine.

[0162] Suitablely, the betaine comprises amide betaine, preferably cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0163] The at least one betaine may be present in the surfactant composition in any suitable amount, for example, in an amount of 3 to 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0164] In both the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise any suitable cationic surfactant. Such surfactants will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may comprise any suitable amount of cationic surfactant, for example, in an amount of 15 to 40% by weight or 20 to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0165] The suitable cationic surfactants used in this article are typically based on fatty amine derivatives or phosphonium quaternary ions, as well as quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0166] Suitable cationic surfactants used in this article include tertiary amine salts, monoalkyltrimethylammonium chloride, monoalkyltrimethylammonium methyl sulfate, dialkyldimethylammonium chloride, dialkyldimethylammonium methyl sulfate, trialkylmethylammonium chloride, and trialkylmethylammonium methyl sulfate.

[0167] In both the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition may comprise any suitable nonionic surfactant. Such surfactants will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may comprise any suitable amount of nonionic surfactant, for example, in an amount of 15 to 40% by weight or 20 to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0168] Suitable nonionic surfactants used in this article include alcohol ethoxylates and surfactants derived from ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers, sugar esters (especially sorbitan esters), alkyl polyglycosides, fatty acid ethoxylates or polyethylene glycol esters and some esters, alkanolamides and amine oxides.

[0169] For example, suitable nonionic surfactants used in this article include fatty acid chain alkanolamides, ethylene glycol stearate, and ethylene glycol distearate.

[0170] Other suitable nonionic surfactants include the reaction products of compounds having hydrophobic groups and reactive hydrogen atoms (e.g., aliphatic alcohols, acids, amides, or alkylphenols) with epoxides (especially ethylene oxide, alone or with propylene oxide) (e.g., alkyl (C6-C) 22 ) Phenol-ethylene oxide condensate, aliphatic (C8-C 18 Condensation products of primary or secondary straight-chain or branched alcohols with ethylene oxide, and products obtained by condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction products of propylene oxide and ethylenediamine; long-chain tertiary amine oxides, long-chain tertiary phosphine oxides and dialkyl sulfoxides; alkylamine oxides, alkylamidoamine oxides; alkyl tertiary phosphine oxides; alkoxyalkylamines; sorbitol; sorbitol esters; sorbitol ester alkoxylates; glycerol ester alkoxylates; sucrose esters; saccharide esters; sucrose esters; saccharide ester alkoxylates; sucrose esters; saccharide amides, such as polysaccharide amides; lactose amides; and alkyl polysaccharide nonionic surfactants, such as alkyl polyglucosides. Preferred nonionic surfactants are sucrose glycerides and ethoxylated fatty alcohols, especially those derived from lauryl, cetearyl, stearyl, cetyl and oleyl cetyl alcohols.

[0171] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition (to which the chelating agent is added) may comprise: (i) At least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Represents cations; and (ii) At least one amphoteric surfactant.

[0172] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition (to which the chelating agent is added) may comprise: (i) At least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Represents cations; and (ii) At least one betaine surfactant.

[0173] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition (to which the chelating agent is added) may comprise: (i) At least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Represents cations; and (ii) At least one amide betaine, preferably at least one cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0174] Preferably, in the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition (to which the chelating agent is added) may comprise: (i) at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; and (ii) Cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0175] The surfactant composition may be in liquid form. Suitably, the surfactant composition may be in liquid form at room temperature and atmospheric pressure (i.e., 25°C and 1 atm).

[0176] The surfactant composition may also contain at least one solvent. Any suitable solvent may be used, such as an aqueous solvent, like water.

[0177] The at least one solvent may be present in the surfactant composition in any suitable amount, for example, in an amount of 40 to 95% by weight, such as 40 to 75% by weight, preferably 45 to 70% by weight or more preferably 45 to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0178] The surfactant composition may also contain any suitable additional ingredients. Examples of suitable additional ingredients include pH adjusters (e.g., citric acid), fragrances, dyes, and preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate), which will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may contain fatty acids as additional ingredients, such as fatty acids present as impurities in the surfactant contained in the surfactant composition. Suitably, when the surfactant composition contains fatty acids, the fatty acids are present in an amount of less than 5% by weight, for example, less than 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0179] The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising any suitable amount of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, any suitable amount of at least one amphoteric surfactant, and at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof. Suitably, the uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising 15 to 98 wt% (e.g., 15 to 95 wt%) of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate, 3 to 12 wt% of an amphoteric surfactant, and 0.1 to 10 wt% of at least one chelating agent, based on the total weight of the transparent surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0180] The uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide a transparent surfactant composition according to the third aspect of the present invention. For example, the uses and methods of the first and second aspects can serve to provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising: (i) 15 to 98% by weight (e.g., 15 to 95% by weight) of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0181] In the first and second aspects, the surfactant composition and / or the resulting transparent surfactant composition can be a concentrated composition. Such a concentrated composition can be diluted with other components to produce a formulated composition. Concentrated compositions are useful because they occupy less space in storage and require less energy to transport than formulated compositions. It is particularly advantageous that the concentrated composition is transparent, as this makes it easier to formulate a transparent composition. It is also particularly advantageous that the concentrated composition does not discolor over time, because concentrated compositions can be stored for a long period before formulation, and discolored concentrates can affect the color of the formulated composition.

[0182] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a transparent surfactant composition is provided, comprising: (i) 15 to 98% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0183] A third aspect may provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising: (i) 15 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0184] The characteristics of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I), at least one amphoteric surfactant (including betaine), and chelating agent of the third aspect of the invention are as disclosed herein with respect to the first and second aspects of the invention.

[0185] Suitablely, in the third aspect, the transparent surfactant composition may comprise an acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) and an amphoteric surfactant in a weight ratio ranging from 8:1 to 4.5:1.

[0186] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect can be produced by the method or use of the first or second aspect of the present invention.

[0187] The total amount of surfactant in the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect (including the acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) and the amphoteric surfactant) may be in the range of 18 to 99.9% by weight, for example 20 to 95% by weight or preferably 25 to 50% by weight or more preferably 30 to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0188] Suitably, in the third aspect, at least 50% by weight of the total surfactant present is an acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I). Suitably, 50 to 90% by weight, for example 65 to 90% by weight, preferably 75 to 90% by weight of the total surfactant present is an acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant.

[0189] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect can be a concentrated surfactant composition. Suitably, when the transparent surfactant composition is a concentrated surfactant composition, the total amount of surfactant can be at least 25% by weight, for example at least 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the concentrated surfactant composition. For example, the total amount of surfactant can be in the range of 25 to 60% by weight, suitably 30 to 50% by weight, preferably 30 to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the concentrated surfactant composition.

[0190] In the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect, the present surfactant may consist essentially of (or be composed of) at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) and at least one amphoteric surfactant (e.g., at least one betaine surfactant).

[0191] A third aspect may provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising: (i) 15 to 98% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one betaine surfactant, such as at least one amide betaine, preferably at least one cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0192] The third aspect can provide a transparent surfactant composition that is substantially composed of or consists of the following components: (i) 15 to 98% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one betaine surfactant, such as at least one amide betaine, preferably at least one cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0193] A third aspect may provide a transparent surfactant composition comprising: (i) 15 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one betaine surfactant, such as at least one amide betaine, preferably at least one cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0194] The third aspect can provide a transparent surfactant composition that is substantially composed of or consists of the following components: (i) 15 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one betaine surfactant, such as at least one amide betaine, preferably at least one cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0195] In the third aspect, the at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid may be selected from one or more of the following: ethylenediamine-N,N'-diglutarate (EDDG), ethylenediamine-N,N'-dimalonic acid (EDDM), iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), L-aspartic acid diacetic acid (ASDA), hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), iminodifumaric acid (IDF), iminoditartaric acid (IDT), iminodimaleic acid (IDMAL), iminodimalic acid (IDM), ethylenediaminedifumaric acid (EDDF), ethylenediaminedimalic acid (EDDM), ethylenediamineditartaric acid (EDDT), and ethylenediaminedimaleic acid (EDDMAL) or salts thereof.

[0196] In the third aspect, the at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid may be selected from one or more of the following: ethylenediamine-N,N'-diglutarate (EDDG), ethylenediamine-N,N'-dimalonic acid (EDDM), iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), and L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), preferably EDTA, EDDS, MGDA, and GLDA, or salts thereof.

[0197] Suitable salts of aminopolycarboxylic acids include amine salts, alkaline earth metal salts, or alkali metal salts. Suitable amine salts include salts of ammonia and triethanolamine. Suitable alkaline earth metal salts include salts of magnesium and calcium. Suitable alkali metal salts include salts of sodium, lithium, and potassium. Preferably, the chelating agent is provided in the form of a sodium salt. Suitable salts include partial salts in which one or more, but not all, of the acid groups are present in salt form.

[0198] Preferably, in the third aspect, the chelating agent is GLDA, such as the tetrasodium salt of GLDA.

[0199] In a third aspect, the transparent surfactant composition may comprise at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) in an amount of 15 to 95% by weight, preferably 15 to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0200] In a third aspect, the transparent surfactant composition may comprise at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I) in an amount of 25 to 95% by weight, preferably 15 to 40% by weight, or more preferably 25 to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0201] In a third aspect, the transparent surfactant composition may contain 0.2 to 8% by weight, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight, and more preferably 1 to 3% by weight of the at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent contains at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0202] Preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of amide betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0203] More preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of amide betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or its salt.

[0204] Preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of amide betaine; and (iii) 0.5 to 5% by weight of at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0205] More preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of amide betaine; and (iii) 0.5 to 5% by weight of L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or its salt.

[0206] Preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0207] More preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or its salt.

[0208] Preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.5 to 5% by weight of at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0209] More preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 25 to 95% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 0.5 to 5% by weight of L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or its salt.

[0210] Preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 15 to 40% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 1 to 3% by weight of at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

[0211] More preferably, the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may comprise: (i) 15 to 40% by weight of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate selected from sodium lauroyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate and sodium cocoyl methyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of cocamidopropyl betaine; and (iii) 1 to 3% by weight of L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid or its salt.

[0212] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at ambient temperature for a period of time (e.g., a period of 1 to 2 years, or a period of 1 to 3 years), or for example, at least 2 weeks, or for example, at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or for at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks.

[0213] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at temperatures above ambient temperature (e.g., 40 to 50°C, such as about 45°C) for a period of time (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or a period of at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0214] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at temperatures below ambient temperature (e.g., 0 to 10°C, such as about 5°C) for a period of time (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0215] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration, for example, after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0216] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration, for example, after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0217] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored, for example, at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks), and may have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0218] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored, for example, at a temperature below ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks), and may have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0219] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at temperatures above ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0220] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks), and can have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0221] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at temperatures above ambient temperature for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0222] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks) and can have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0223] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at temperatures below ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0224] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature and exposed to light for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks) and have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0225] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature for a period of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0226] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher after being stored at a temperature below ambient temperature for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks) and can have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0227] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored at ambient temperature for a period of 1 to 2 years, or 1 to 3 years.

[0228] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher and a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being stored at ambient temperature for a period of 1 to 2 years or 1 to 3 years.

[0229] The third aspect is that the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being exposed to light and stored for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0230] The third aspect's transparent surfactant composition can have a transmittance value of 90% or higher and a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower) after being exposed to light and stored for a period of time of at least 2 weeks (e.g., at least 4, 6, or 8 weeks, or at least 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks).

[0231] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can remain transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored in a sealed container at ambient temperature without light exposure for at least 8 weeks, or at least 12 weeks, for example, at least 1 year, preferably at least 2 years, for example, at least 3 years.

[0232] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect can be stored in a sealed container at ambient temperature without light exposure for at least 1 year, preferably at least 2 years, for example at least 3 years, and has a transmittance value of 90% or higher, and can have a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower (e.g., 80 Hazen units or lower).

[0233] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can be stored in a sealed container at 5°C without light exposure for at least 8 weeks, and suitably for at least 12 weeks, and remain transparent (e.g., turbidity less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0234] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can be stored in a sealed container at 25°C without light exposure for at least 8 weeks, and suitably for at least 12 weeks, and remain transparent (e.g., turbidity less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0235] The third aspect of the transparent surfactant composition can be stored in a sealed container at 45°C without light exposure for at least 8 weeks, and suitably for at least 12 weeks, and remain transparent (e.g., turbidity less than 10 NTU) without significant discoloration.

[0236] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect can be in liquid form. Suitably, the transparent surfactant composition can be in liquid form at room temperature and atmospheric pressure (i.e., 25°C and 1 atm).

[0237] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may also contain at least one solvent. Any suitable solvent may be used, such as an aqueous solvent, like water.

[0238] The at least one solvent may be present in any suitable amount in the transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect, for example, in an amount of 40 to 95% by weight, such as 40 to 75% by weight, preferably 45 to 70% by weight or more preferably 45 to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the surfactant composition.

[0239] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may also contain at least one cationic surfactant, such as those based on fatty amine derivatives or phosphonium quaternary ions, and quaternary ammonium compounds.

[0240] The transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect may also contain any suitable additional ingredients. Examples of suitable additional ingredients include pH adjusters (e.g., citric acid), fragrances, dyes, and preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate), which will be known to those skilled in the art. The surfactant composition may contain fatty acids as additional ingredients, such as fatty acids present as impurities in the surfactant contained in the surfactant composition.

[0241] The surfactant compositions described herein may have a pH of 6 to 9, for example, 6 to 8.

[0242] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a personal or household cleaning composition is provided, comprising a transparent surfactant composition according to a third aspect.

[0243] The transparent surfactant composition according to the third aspect can be included in any suitable personal or household cleaning composition, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Examples of suitable personal or household cleaning compositions include shower gels, shampoos, and facial cleansers. Examples of suitable household cleaning compositions include hard surface cleaning products.

[0244] The personal and household cleaning compositions may contain additional suitable components well known to those skilled in the art and selected according to the specific purpose of the composition. Examples of suitable additional components include conditioning agents (including quaternary ammonium compounds, cationic polymers, silicones, synthetic or natural oils or resins, etc.), fatty alcohols, electrolytes or other rheology modifiers, sunscreens / pearlizers, scalp-beneficial agents, fragrances, dyes, UV filters, penetration enhancers (e.g., propylene carbonate, benzyl alcohol, etc.), preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifiers, pH adjusters (e.g., lactic acid, sodium hydroxide, sodium phosphate and their salts and buffers), and buffers and styling polymers (e.g., polyvinylpyrrolidone, etc.).

[0245] The relative proportions of the components and the formulation of such compositions will fall within the skill of those skilled in the art. For example, the personal or household cleaning composition of the fourth aspect may contain 1 to 30% by weight of the transparent surfactant composition according to the third aspect, based on the total weight of the personal or household cleaning composition.

[0246] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing a transparent surfactant composition of the third aspect is provided, the method comprising mixing at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate of formula (I), at least one betaine surfactant, and at least one chelating agent in amounts described in the third aspect.

[0247] The fifth aspect of the method may have any of the features and advantages described in relation to the first, second, or third aspects. Brief description of the attached diagram To better understand the invention and to demonstrate how exemplary embodiments can be implemented, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 The results of Example 1 are shown.

[0249] Example To better understand the present invention and to demonstrate how its exemplary embodiments can be implemented, reference will now be made to the following non-limiting embodiments.

[0250] Yellowness index measurement Method 1 Yellowness index is measured using the Lovibond® Comparator 2000+ instrument. This instrument determines the yellowness (in Hazen or APHA units) of a clear liquid sample by visually comparing a reference, the sample, and a standardized colored glass disc (Nessleriser disc according to ASTM D1209). The method includes the following steps: 1. Fill a Nessler colorimetric tube with the sample to be tested to a mark slightly above 50 mL.

[0251] 2. Place the colorimetric tube containing the sample in the right compartment of the Lovibond 2000+ comparator.

[0252] 3. Fill the second Nessler colorimetric tube with deionized water in the same manner and place it in the left compartment.

[0253] 4. Insert the appropriate Nessleriser disk into the Lovibond 2000+ comparator cover and turn on the light source.

[0254] 5. Rotate the color wheel until you get the closest color match.

[0255] 6. Record the displayed values ​​as Hazen units. The higher the Hazen unit, the more yellow the solution.

[0256] Method 2 Yellowness index was measured using a HunterLab Vista spectrophotometer according to ASTM D5386. This instrument measures the yellowness of liquid samples (in Hazen or APHA units).

[0257] Transparency measurement Transparency can be measured in different ways, such as by measuring the amount of light passing through the sample to provide a transmittance value (%T), or by measuring the scattering of light by the sample to provide a turbidity indication.

[0258] Method 3 - Transmittance Test Measurement Transmittance was measured using a Palintest® Photometer 7100 in transmittance mode. Distilled water was used as a blank. Transmittance values ​​were recorded as %T or the transmittance of visible light through the sample. Transmittance values ​​for opaque systems will be 0%. As used herein, surfactant compositions with a transmittance value (%T) of 90% or higher are considered transparent.

[0259] Method 4 - Turbidity Test Measurement Turbidity was measured using a HunterLab Vista instrument, which was standardized daily with deionized water (DI) using the NTU-10mm index (0-150 NTU range), in parallel with APHA measurements. 3 grams of the surfactant sample mixture were dispensed into cuvettes, and the initial turbidity value (D65 / 10) was measured. If any bubbles were observed in the optical path, the sample was sonicated in a Branson 5800 instrument until all air was removed before measurement.

[0260] The samples were then placed in a stability test chamber (at 5, 25, and 45°C) for a period of time, and removed for 4 hours on the intermediate measurement day. The samples were equilibrated in a 25°C water bath for 4 hours before the turbidity (D65 / 10) value was measured. Once the turbidity (D65 / 10) value was measured, the samples were returned to the temperature-controlled chamber. The light wavelength used by the HunterLab instrument for color measurement was from a D65 light source, simulating the average daylight distribution (including the ultraviolet wavelength region) with a correlated color temperature of approximately 6500 K.

[0261] As used herein, surfactant compositions with a turbidity value of less than 10 NTU are considered transparent.

[0262] Example 1 The following liquid compositions were prepared by mixing the components listed in Table 1 at a temperature between 40 and 55°C. All amounts are given as a weight percentage (wt%) of the active ingredient. The blank is a surfactant composition without chelating agents, compositions 1 to 4 are transparent surfactant compositions according to the invention, and compositions 5 and 6 are comparative compositions.

[0263] Table 1 Components used as a source of active ingredients: [1] SCMI is a commercially available source, provided in the form of solid flakes, containing 80% by weight of an active surfactant compound and 7% by weight of unreacted fatty acids.

[0264] [2] Commercially available in liquid form, containing 35% by weight of an active surfactant compound.

[0265] [3] It is commercially available as a solid powder containing approximately 100% by weight of active ingredient.

[0266] [4] 50% citric acid solution.

[0267] Chelating agents are used in the following forms: GLDA - Tetrasodium salt EDDS - Trisodium Salt EDTA - Free Acid MGDA - Trisodium Salt ATMP - Free Phosphonic Acid EDTMP - Free Phosphonic Acid As those skilled in the art will know, the components used as sources of active ingredients in Table 1 may contain small amounts of other components, such as unreacted starting materials and reaction byproducts (i.e., totaling 100% by weight for each composition).

[0268] ATMP and EDTMP are phosphonate chelating agents (i.e., ATMP: aminotrimethylenephosphonic acid; EDTMP: ethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid).

[0269] All chelating agents are commercially available in liquid form and contain approximately 33 to 38% by weight of the active ingredient.

[0270] The transmittance value is measured according to method 3 above, and the yellowness index is measured according to method 1 above.

[0271] The yellowness index of the blank sample and composition 6 could not be determined on the Lovibond® 2000+ comparator due to their lack of transparency.

[0272] Results – Storage under light exposure Compositions 1 to 6 were placed in a transparent, sealed glass container at ambient temperature and exposed to natural light near a window. The light conditions were typical UK summer standard light. After 4 weeks of light exposure, the yellowness index and transmittance were measured according to the above procedure. The results are recorded in Table 2 and shown in [the table / information missing]. Figure 1 middle.

[0273] Table 2 The results in Table 2 show that compositions 1 through 5 remained transparent, but compositions 1 through 4 did not change color / yellow, while composition 5 showed a significant level of color / yellow.

[0274] Example 2 The following liquid compositions were prepared by mixing the components listed in Table 3 at a temperature between 40 and 55°C. All amounts are given as a weight percentage (wt%) of the active ingredient. Compositions 8, 10, 12, and 14 are comparative compositions and do not contain aminopolycarboxylic acid chelating agents.

[0275] Table 3 Components used as a source of active ingredients: [1] SCMI is a commercially available source, provided in the form of solid flakes, containing 80% by weight of an active surfactant compound and 7% by weight of unreacted fatty acids.

[0276] [3] It is commercially available as a solid powder containing approximately 100% by weight of active ingredient.

[0277] [4] 50% citric acid solution.

[0278] [5] C 12 Fatty acid amamidopropyl betaine. Commercially available in liquid form, containing 34% by weight of active contents.

[0279] [6] Alternative C 12 - 18 Fatty acid amamidopropyl betaine. Commercially available in liquid form, containing 30% by weight of active contents.

[0280] [7] C8- 18 Fatty acid amamidopropyl betaine. Commercially available in liquid form, containing 30% by weight of active contents.

[0281] [8] Commercially available in liquid form, containing 30% by weight of active contents.

[0282] [9] It is commercially available in liquid form, containing 47% by weight of active contents and used as a tetrasodium salt.

[0283] As those skilled in the art will know, the components used as sources of active ingredients in Table 3 may contain small amounts of other components, such as unreacted starting materials and reaction byproducts (i.e., totaling 100% by weight for each composition).

[0284] The turbidity value was measured according to method 4 above, and the yellowness index was measured according to method 2 above.

[0285] Result - Store at 25℃ away from light Compositions 7 to 14 were placed in a clear, sealed glass container and stored in an oven at 25°C for 12 weeks. The yellowness index and turbidity values ​​were measured initially, after 8 weeks of storage in the dark, and after 12 weeks of storage in the dark, following methods 2 and 4 described above. The results are recorded in Table 4. A turbidity value less than 10 NTU was considered clear.

[0286] Table 4 "Out of range" means that the sample is too turbid or opaque to measure turbidity.

[0287] The results in Table 4 show that the compositions of the present invention exhibited low turbidity and low color initially, and maintained this after storage at 25°C for 8 and 12 weeks.

[0288] Result - Store at -5℃ away from light Compositions 7 to 14 were placed in a transparent, sealed glass container and stored in an oven at 5°C for 12 weeks. The yellowness index and turbidity values ​​were measured initially, after 8 weeks of storage in the dark, and after 12 weeks of storage in the dark, following methods 2 and 4 described above. The results are recorded in Table 5.

[0289] Table 5 The results in Table 5 show that the compositions of the present invention exhibited initial low turbidity and low color, and maintained this after 8 and 12 weeks of storage at 5°C.

[0290] Result - Store at 45℃ away from light Compositions 7, 9, 11, and 13 of the present invention were placed in transparent, sealed glass containers and stored in an oven at 45°C for 12 weeks. The yellowness index and turbidity values ​​were measured initially, after 8 weeks of light-protected storage, and after 12 weeks of light-protected storage, according to methods 2 and 4 described above. The results are recorded in Table 6.

[0291] Table 6 The results in Table 6 show that the compositions of the present invention exhibited initial low turbidity and low color, and maintained this after 8 and 12 weeks of storage at 45°C.

[0292] Although some preferred embodiments have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0293] Throughout this specification, the terms "comprising" or "including" mean including the specified components, but do not exclude the presence of other components. The terms "consistently made of" or "consistently made of" mean including the specified components, but excluding other components, except for materials present as impurities, materials unavoidably present due to the process used to provide said components, and components added for purposes other than achieving the technical effects of the invention. Generally, when referring to a composition, a composition consisting essentially of one set of components will contain less than 5% by weight, typically less than 3% by weight, and more typically less than 1% by weight of unspecified components.

[0294] The terms “composed of” or “consisting of” mean that the specified components are included, but the addition of other components is excluded.

[0295] Where appropriate, and depending on the context, the terms “comprising” or “including” may also be understood to encompass or include the meaning of “consistently made of” or “made up of”, and may also be understood to include the meaning of “composed of” or “made up of”.

[0296] All numbers used in this document, such as those expressing numerical values, ranges, or percentages, are to be understood to be preceded by the word “about”, even if the term is not explicitly stated.

[0297] A numerical range described by an endpoint includes all integers within that range, and, where appropriate, fractions contained within that range (e.g., when referring to, for example, the number of elements, 1 to 5 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, and when referring to, for example, measurements, it may also include 1.5, 2, 2.70, and 3.80). The description of an endpoint also includes the endpoint value itself (e.g., 1.0 to 5.0 includes both 1.0 and 5.0). Any numerical range described herein is intended to include all subranges contained therein.

[0298] As used herein, the term "and / or," when applied to a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a list is described as containing groups A, B, and / or C, then the list may contain only A; only B; only C; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0299] For the avoidance of ambiguity, the amounts of components described in the composition are expressed as % by weight, which refers to the weight percentage of the specified component relative to the total composition mentioned. For example, "the surfactant composition contains 1 to 20% by weight of an amphoteric surfactant" means that 1 to 20% of the total weight of the surfactant composition is provided by an amphoteric surfactant.

[0300] The optional features described herein may be used individually or in combination with each other where appropriate, particularly in the combinations described in the appended claims. The optional features described herein with respect to each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention should also be understood to be applicable to any other aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention where appropriate. In other words, those skilled in the art who read this specification should consider the optional features described with respect to each exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different exemplary embodiments.

[0301] Please note all publicly available papers and documents submitted concurrently with or prior to this specification and related to this application; the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0302] All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims and drawings), and / or all steps of any disclosed method or process, may be combined in any combination except for combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0303] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless otherwise expressly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, each disclosed feature is merely one example of a general series of equivalent or similar features.

[0304] This invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing(one or more) embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims and drawings), or to any novel step or combination of steps in any disclosed method or process.

Claims

1. The use of a chelating agent in a surfactant composition for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

2. A method for providing transparency and / or substantially preventing discoloration of a surfactant composition, the method comprising adding a chelating agent to the surfactant composition, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

3. The use according to claim 1, wherein the chelating agent provides transparency and substantially prevents discoloration.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the method provides transparency to the surfactant composition and substantially prevents discoloration therefrom.

5. The use or method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the surfactant composition comprises at least one surfactant independently selected from anionic surfactants and amphoteric surfactants, or mixtures thereof.

6. The use or method according to claim 5, wherein the anionic surfactant is an acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + It represents a cation.

7. The use or method according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the amphoteric surfactant is betaine.

8. The use or method according to claim 5, wherein the surfactant composition comprises: (i) At least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Represents cations; and (ii) At least one amphoteric surfactant, such as at least one betaine surfactant.

9. The use or method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the chelating agent, for example, after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks, provides a transparent surfactant composition without significant discoloration.

10. The use or method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the chelating agent provides a transparent surfactant composition having a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower, for example, after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks.

11. A transparent surfactant composition comprising: (i) 15 to 98% by weight (e.g., 15 to 95% by weight) of at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate surfactant of formula (I): (I) Where R 1 Indicates optional substitution of C3-C 35 hydrocarbon group; R 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 Each independently represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl group, and R... 2 R 3 R 4 and R 5 At least one of them is not hydrogen; and M + Indicates a cation; (ii) 3 to 12% by weight of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and (iii) 0.1 to 10% by weight of at least one chelating agent, wherein the chelating agent comprises at least one aminopolycarboxylic acid or a salt thereof.

12. The transparent surfactant composition of claim 11, wherein the composition remains transparent and without significant discoloration after being stored for a period of time, such as at least 2 weeks.

13. The transparent surfactant composition according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the composition remains transparent and does not undergo significant discoloration after being stored at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks.

14. The transparent surfactant composition according to claim 11, 12 or 13, wherein the composition has a transmittance value of 90% or higher and / or a yellowness index of 125 Hazen units or lower after being stored, for example, at a temperature above ambient temperature and / or exposed to light for a period of at least 2 weeks.

15. The use, method, or composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one chelating agent is independently selected from ethylenediamine-N,N'-diglutarate (EDDG), ethylenediamine-N,N'-dimalonic acid (EDDM), iminodisuccinic acid (IDS), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), L-glutamic acid-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), L-aspartic acid diacetic acid (ASDA), hydroxyl... Ethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), iminodifumaric acid (IDF), iminoditartaric acid (IDT), iminodimaleic acid (IDMAL), iminodimalic acid (IDM), ethylenediaminedifumaric acid (EDDF), ethylenediaminedimalic acid (EDDM), ethylenediamineditartaric acid (EDDT), and ethylenediaminedimaleic acid (EDDMAL), preferably EDDG, EDDM, IDS, EDTA, EDDS, MGDA, and GLDA, more preferably EDTA, EDDS, MGDA, and GLDA, or salts thereof.

16. The use, method, or composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the chelating agent is GLDA or a salt thereof.

17. A personal or household cleaning composition comprising a transparent surfactant composition according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

18. A method for preparing a transparent surfactant composition according to any one of claims 11 to 16, the method comprising mixing at least one acylalkyl hydroxyethyl sulfonate of formula (I) in the amount of claim 11, at least one betaine surfactant and at least one chelating agent.

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