Cleaning agent portion for automatic dishwashers

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning agent portion for automatic dishwashers, which is effective against limescale and grease deposits in an automatic dishwasher and can be used together with a machine dishwashing detergent in a normal dishwashing cycle without negatively affecting the cleaning performance of the detergent, as well as a method for cleaning and / or maintaining a dishwasher using this cleaning agent portion, and the use of this cleaning agent portion and / or the method for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher. It also relates to a method for producing this cleaning agent portion.

[0002] Limescale and grease deposits in automatic dishwashers, which accumulate through use, are nowadays usually removed with special machine cleaning agents. These special cleaning agents contain acids for limescale removal and surfactants for grease removal. However, due to the acid content, such cleaning agents must be used in a separate program, as otherwise the cleaning performance of neutral to alkaline dishwashing detergents is significantly reduced, and the acidic agents can have a damaging effect on decorations and glassware. WO2017 / 050796 A1 discloses a method for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, characterized in that, in a normal cleaning cycle for cleaning items with a machine dishwashing detergent, a cleaning agent formulated separately from the dishwashing detergent is added.

[0003] The use of such cleaning products therefore increases energy and water consumption. Furthermore, it is not particularly user-friendly due to the additional time required.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for cleaning and care products for automatic dishwashers that can be used in a normal dishwasher cleaning cycle together with a standard dishwashing detergent without negatively affecting its cleaning performance, while ensuring adequate cleaning and maintenance of the dishwasher. At the same time, these cleaning and care products should be attractively designed and easy to use for the consumer.

[0005] It was surprisingly found that dishwasher cleaning and care products containing two or more components can accomplish these tasks.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention therefore relates to a cleaning agent portion comprising a water-soluble coating and at least one composition for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, the composition comprising at least (ii) a buffer system of at least one acid and at least one base, wherein the composition has at least two parts, wherein at least one part A is a compressed part and at least one part B is an uncompressed or a further compressed part, wherein any compressed part B is less compressed than part A, wherein (ii) the buffer system contains at least one organic acid, in particular citric acid, and the corresponding base, in particular citrate, wherein the acid from (ii) is present in an amount of 80 to 100 wt.-% is contained in at least one portion B, based on the amount of acid in the total composition, and wherein the at least one base of buffer system ii) is contained in portion B to 40 to 75 wt%, based on the total amount of base in the total composition.

[0007] The present invention also relates to a method for producing portions of cleaning agents according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: a) Providing a mold with at least one mold cavity; b) Feeding a water-soluble film onto the mold cavity; c) Forming an open chamber in the mold cavity by deforming the water-soluble film; d) Filling the open chamber with at least one particulate fraction B according to this application; e) Optionally increasing the bulk density of the particulate fraction B by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted fraction B used to produce the cleaning agent portion; f) Optionally creating a cavity in fraction B; g) Filling the open chamber and / or the cavity in fraction B with a fraction A according to this application; h) Providing a second water-soluble film as a lid; i) Placing the open chamber and the lid on top of each other to seal the portion pack at a sealing area; j) Sealing the lid to the open chamber.

[0008] Also part of the present invention is a method for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher using the claimed portion of cleaning agent, wherein the portion of cleaning agent is dosed into the interior of the automatic dishwasher at the beginning of the cleaning cycle, preferably before the machine dishwashing detergent.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of the claimed cleaning agent portion for cleaning and / or maintenance of an automatic dishwasher and / or a method for cleaning and / or maintenance of an automatic dishwasher using the claimed cleaning agent portion for cleaning and / or maintenance of an automatic dishwasher.

[0010] "At least two," as used herein, includes but is not limited to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and more. "At least one," as used herein, includes but is not limited to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and more.

[0011] Unless otherwise stated, the information in wt.% given in this application refers to the active substance content in g based on the weight of the entire composition in g.

[0012] "Normal cleaning cycle," as used herein, refers to a program for cleaning dishes in an automatic dishwasher. Such a cleaning cycle may include one or more pre-rinses, one or more main wash cycles, and one or more rinse or drying cycles. Such a cleaning cycle involves the automatic cleaning / rinsing of soiled dishes.

[0013] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to the person skilled in the art upon studying the following detailed description and claims. Each feature from one aspect of the invention can be incorporated into any other aspect of the invention. Furthermore, it is understood that the examples contained herein are intended to describe and illustrate the invention, but do not limit it, and in particular, the invention is not limited to these examples. All percentages are weight percentages unless otherwise stated. Numerical ranges specified in the format "from x to y" include the stated values. If several preferred numerical ranges are specified in this format, it is understood that all ranges resulting from the combination of the different endpoints are also included.

[0014] The embodiments described in the context of the means according to the invention can readily be transferred to the methods and uses according to the invention and vice versa.

[0015] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a cleaning agent portion according to claim 1, comprising a water-soluble coating and at least one composition for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, the composition comprising at least ii) a buffer system of at least one acid and at least one base, wherein the composition has at least two parts, wherein at least one part A is a compressed part and at least one part B is a non-compressed part.

[0016] The at least one unpressed component B, if present in the composition, can exist in various forms. For example, without, however, other

[0017] To exclude possibilities, liquids, gels, powders, and other particulate mixtures should be mentioned here. If at least one uncompressed component B is included in the composition, it is preferred that it be a powdery and / or granular composition, particularly preferably a powder mixture.

[0018] Without being bound to a theory, both aspects of this invention ensure that part A dissolves with a delay compared to part B.

[0019] The term "compressed components" includes compacted, compressed and / or densified components.

[0020] It is preferred that component A is grouted with a force of at least 8 kN / cm², more preferably with at least 10 kN / cm², and particularly preferably with at least 12 kN / cm². Most preferred is that component A is grouted with a force of 12 to 25 kN / cm².

[0021] It is also preferred that a portion of B, should it be contained in the cleaning agent portion in compressed or compacted form, has been compacted by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted portion of B used to produce the cleaning agent portion.

[0022] A preferred article is therefore a claimed cleaning agent portion, wherein the composition comprises at least one compressed portion A and at least one compacted portion B, and wherein at least one compacted portion B has been compacted by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, and particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted portion B used to produce the cleaning agent portion.

[0023] Another preferred article is therefore a claimed cleaning agent portion, wherein the composition has at least one more highly compressed portion A and at least one less highly compressed portion B, and wherein at least one portion A has been compressed with at least 8 kN / cm 2< , particularly preferably with at least 10 kN / cm 2< , in particular with at least 12 kN / cm 2< , for example with 12 to 25 kN / cm 2< .

[0024] Another preferred article is therefore a claimed cleaning agent portion, wherein the composition comprises at least one compressed portion A and at least one less compressed portion B, and wherein at least one compressed portion B has been compressed by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compressed portion B used to produce the cleaning agent portion, and at least one more highly compressed portion A has been compressed with at least 8 kN / cm², particularly preferably with at least 10 kN / cm², in particular with at least 12 kN / cm², for example with 12 to 25 kN / cm².

[0025] The cleaning and care compositions described herein contain pH regulators in the form of at least one buffer system containing at least one organic acid and its corresponding base. Generally, polycarboxylic acids are suitable as acids, whereby polycarboxylic acids are understood to be those carboxylic acids that possess more than one acid function. Examples include oxalic acid, citric acid, adipic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, sugar acids, amino acids, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), provided such use is not objectionable for ecological reasons, and mixtures thereof. Corresponding buffer systems can contain one or more of the aforementioned acids as well as the respective corresponding base(s) and other bases. Citric acid or a buffer system consisting of citric acid and citrate is preferred.

[0026] Examples of aminocarboxylic acids include aspartic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic diacetic acid (GLDA), and ethylenediamine diacetic acid. Iminodisuccinic acid (IDS) and iminodiacetic acid (IDA) are also suitable. However, it is preferred that the acids used are not aminocarboxylic acids.

[0027] Suitable bases are all those known in the art for use in dishwashing detergents. In the acid-base buffer system, the base corresponding to the acid is used; i.e., citrate if citric acid is used as the acid. Organic acids and their corresponding bases are used. Additional bases that can be used include, in particular, carbonates and silicates, which are described further under the additional supporting materials; the use of acetates is also possible.

[0028] The acids and, if applicable, bases used are preferably solid under standard conditions (temperature 25°C, pressure 1013 mbar) and can preferably be used in the form of a powder, fine crystalline or in the form of granules.

[0029] It is further preferred that (ii) the buffer system contains at least one organic acid, in particular citric acid, and the corresponding base, in particular citrate.

[0030] It is preferred that the amount of acid from ii) is present in an amount suitable for reducing or eliminating limescale deposits in the dishwasher.

[0031] It is therefore preferred that the at least one acid from ii) is included in the composition in an amount of 1 to 80 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 5 to 60 wt.%, particularly preferably in an amount of 20 to 35 wt.% or in an amount of 25 to 45 wt.%, based on the amount of the composition.

[0032] It is therefore also preferred that the absolute amount of the at least one acid from i) and / or ii) is 0.2 to 16 g / job, preferably 3 to 11 g / job, particularly preferably 4 to 10 g / job, for example 4 to 7 g / job or 5 to 8 g / job.

[0033] It is therefore also preferred that the at least one acid from ii) is contained in an amount of 1 to 80 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 5 to 60 wt.%, particularly preferably in an amount of 20 to 35 wt.% or in an amount of 25 to 45 wt.%, based on the total composition, and that the absolute amount of the at least one acid from i) and / or ii) in the total composition is 0.2 to 16 g / job, preferably 3 to 11 g / job, particularly preferably 4 to 10 g / job, for example 4 to 7 g / job or 5 to 8 g / job.

[0034] Another preferred article is therefore a cleaning agent portion, wherein the at least one acid from ii) is contained in an amount of 1 to 80 wt.%, preferably in an amount of 5 to 60 wt.%, particularly preferably in an amount of 20 to 35 wt.% or in an amount of 25 to 45 wt.%, based on the total composition, and / or the absolute amount of the at least one acid from ii) in the total composition is 0.2 to 16 g / job, preferably 3 to 11 g / job, particularly preferably 4 to 10 g / job, for example 7 to 9 g / job.

[0035] These quantities refer to the (crystal) anhydrous form.

[0036] It goes without saying that the total amounts of acid and base in the buffer system must be selected to achieve the desired pH range. This applies to the pH range achieved by dissolving the buffer system as well as to the pH range obtained by dissolving the entire composition. For the further course of the washing process and its effectiveness, it is preferable if the complete dissolution of the claimed composition results in a pH value of 3.0 to 7.0, particularly preferably 3.0 to 6.5, and most preferably 4.0 to 5.7, in the existing wash liquor before the addition of the machine dishwashing detergent.

[0037] It is preferred that the acid from ii) be available as quickly as possible for cleaning and maintaining the dishwasher. To ensure this, it is claimed that 80 to 100 wt.%, in particular 95 to 100 wt.%, most preferably at least 99 wt.%, of the acid from ii) are contained in at least one portion B, based on the amount of acid in the composition.

[0038] It is a preferred embodiment that the at least one base contained in this buffer system is present in proportion B to 50 to 70 wt.%, in particular 60 to 69 wt.%, based on the total amount of base in the composition.

[0039] Accordingly, in one embodiment it is preferred if 25 to 60 wt.%, particularly preferably 30 to 50 wt.%, in particular 31 to 40 wt.% of the base of the buffer system, based on the total amount of base in the composition, are contained in at least one proportion A of the composition.

[0040] Another preferred item is therefore a portion of cleaning agent wherein the at least one base of buffer system ii) is contained in portion B to 50 to 70 wt.%, in particular 60 to 69 wt.%, based on the total amount of base in the overall composition.

[0041] These quantities refer to the (crystal) anhydrous form.

[0042] It is preferred that the active ingredients in the composition required for limescale removal dissolve as quickly as possible and can thus take effect before the machine dishwashing detergent is added.

[0043] It is therefore preferred that the acid be released as quickly as possible to obtain an acidic rinsing solution. It is particularly preferred that the time until the acid is completely released from a 20 g portion of cleaning agent in 1 L of water at room temperature while stirring (in a 2 L beaker with a diameter of 12 cm using a propeller stirrer with a diameter of 6 cm (the stirrer blades are 3 cm above the bottom of the beaker) at 200 rpm) is 0.1 to 15 minutes, preferably 0.3 to 5 minutes, and most preferably 0.5 to 2 minutes.

[0044] Another preferred article is a portion of cleaning agent, wherein the time until the complete release of the acid from 20 g of the claimed composition in 1 L of water at room temperature under stirring (in a 2 liter beaker with a diameter of 12 cm with a propeller stirrer with a diameter of 6 cm (blades of the stirrer at a height of 3 cm above the bottom of the beaker) at 200 rpm) is 0.1 to 15 minutes, preferably 0.3 to 5 minutes, particularly preferably 0.5 to 2 minutes.

[0045] For the same reason, it is further preferred that the cleaning agent portion dissolves in 100 times the amount of water, based on the weight of the cleaning agent portion, such that after 1 minute of stirring (in a 3 liter beaker with a diameter of 13.5 cm using a propeller stirrer with a diameter of 7 cm (blades of the stirrer at a height of 3.5 cm above the bottom of the beaker) at 200 rpm) at room temperature, a solution with a pH value of 3 to 6.5, preferably 4 to 6, is obtained.

[0046] Another preferred article is a portion of cleaning agent, wherein the portion of cleaning agent dissolves in 100 times the amount of water, based on the weight of the portion of cleaning agent, such that after 1 minute of stirring (in a 3 liter beaker with a diameter of 13.5 cm with a propeller stirrer with a diameter of 7 cm (blades of the stirrer at a height of 3.5 cm above the bottom of the beaker) at 200 rpm) at room temperature, a solution with a pH value of 3 to 6.5, preferably 4 to 6, is obtained.

[0047] To facilitate the removal or reduction of grease deposits in addition to limescale, it is preferred that at least one non-ionic surfactant be included in the composition. A mixture of two or more non-ionic surfactants is preferred in the composition.

[0048] Any nonionic surfactant known to those skilled in the art can be used in the cleaning and / or care products described herein. However, in preferred embodiments, nonionic surfactants from the group of alkoxylated alcohols are used. A class of preferably usable nonionic surfactants, which can be used either as the sole nonionic surfactant or in combination with other nonionic surfactants, are therefore alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated, or ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty alcohols.

[0049] In various preferred embodiments, a fatty alcohol alkoxylate, in particular a fatty alcohol ethoxylate, is used. Fatty alcohol alkoxylates that are not end-capped are especially preferred.

[0050] In preferred embodiments, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has the formula R 1< -O-(EO) m -H , wherein R 1< is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 12 to 24, in particular 14 to 20, in particular 16 to 18 C atoms; EO is an ethylene oxide unit; and m is 10 to 50, in particular 20 to 30, preferably 22 to 27, in particular 25.

[0051] In particularly preferred embodiments, the fatty alcohol ethoxylate has the formula R 1< -O-(EO) m -H , wherein R 1< is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 16 to 18 C atoms; EO is an ethylene oxide unit; and m is 20 to 30, preferably 22 to 27, in particular 25.

[0052] In one embodiment, the alkyl group R 1< is a linear, preferably unsubstituted, alkyl group with 16 to 18 C atoms.

[0053] The fatty alcohol alkoxylate, preferably the fatty alcohol ethoxylate, and in particular the fatty alcohol ethoxylate of the aforementioned formulas, can be present in the care product in an amount of 0.1 to 20 wt.%, preferably 1 to 13 wt.%, and particularly preferably 3 to 9 wt.% based on the care product. Such amounts are preferred to ensure sufficient grease dissolution and removal.

[0054] It is preferred that a non-ionic surfactant usable in the cleaning and / or care products described herein is included in the composition in an absolute amount of 0.1 to 4 g / job, preferably 1 to 3 g / job, in particular 1.2 to 2.2 g / job, for example 1.5 g / job.

[0055] It is particularly preferred that a fatty alcohol ethoxylate of the formula R 1< -O-(EO) m -H , wherein R 1< is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 12 to 24, in particular 14 to 20, in particular 16 to 18 C atoms; EO is an ethylene oxide unit; and m is 10 to 50, in particular 20 to 30, preferably 22 to 27, in particular 25; is included in the composition in an absolute amount of 0.1 to 4 g / job, preferably 1 to 3 g / job, in particular 1.2 to 2.2 g / job, for example 1.5 g / job.

[0056] It is particularly preferred that a fatty alcohol ethoxylate of the formula R 1< -O-(EO) m -H , where R 1< is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 16 to 18 C atoms; EO is an ethylene oxide unit; and m is 20 to 30, preferably 22 to 27, in particular 25; is included in the composition in an absolute amount of 0.1 to 4 g / job, preferably 1 to 3 g / job, in particular 1.2 to 2.2 g / job, for example 1.5 g / job.

[0057] The non-ionic surfactant is preferably a fatty alcohol ethoxylate that is solid under standard conditions (temperature 25°C, pressure 1013 mbar) and can preferably be used in the form of a powder or granules.

[0058] A fatty alcohol alkoxylate of the formula R 2< -(AO) w -R 3< is also suitable as a nonionic surfactant, where R 2< represents a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 8 to 16 carbon atoms; R 3< represents H or a linear or branched hydrocarbon residue with 2 to 26 carbon atoms; Each A independently represents a residue from the group -CH 2 CH 2 - and - CH 2 -CH(CH 3 )-, CH 2 - CH 2 -CH 2 -, CH 2 - CH 2 - CH 2 -CH 2 -, -CH 2 - CH(CH 2 -CH 3 )-, -CH 2 - C(CH 3 ) 2 - or - CH 2 - CH 2 -CH(CH 3 )-, where at least one A is -CH 2 CH 2 - and at least one A is -CH 2 -CH(CH 3 )-, CH 2 - CH 2 -CH 2 -, CH 2 - CH 2 -CH 2 -, -CH 2 - CH(CH 2 -CH 3 )-, -CH 2 - C(CH 3 ) 2 - or -CH 2 - CH 2 -CH(CH 3 )-; and w represents an integer from 2 to 50, preferably 10 to 30.

[0059] In various embodiments, the ratio of ethylene oxide units to higher alkylene oxide units in the fatty alcohol alkoxylate of formula is 12:1 to 1:1, preferably 10:1 to 2:1, and particularly 6:1 to 3:1. Fatty alcohol alkoxylates of formula in which R2< is a linear alkyl group with 12-16 carbon atoms and R3< = H and w = 10 to 30 are particularly preferred.

[0060] The fatty alcohol alkoxylate of this formula may be present in the composition, in particular in an amount of 0.01 to 3% by weight based on the composition. The absolute amount of the fatty alcohol alkoxylate of this formula in the composition may be, in particular, 0.001 to 3 g / job, preferably 0.01 to 1 g / job, more preferably 0.1 to 0.5 g / job, and most preferably 0.2 g / job.

[0061] Suitable nonionic surfactants also include, for example, alkyl glycosides of the general formula RO(G) x, where R corresponds to a primary linear or methyl-branched, particularly 2-position methyl-branched, aliphatic residue with 8 to 22, preferably 12 to 18 carbon atoms, and G is the symbol representing a glucose unit with 5 or 6 carbon atoms, preferably glucose. The degree of oligomerization x, which indicates the distribution of monoglycosides and oligoglycosides, is any number between 1 and 10; preferably, x is between 1.2 and 1.4.

[0062] Another class of usable non-ionic surfactants are alkoxylated, preferably ethoxylated or ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, preferably with 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.

[0063] Non-ionic surfactants of the amine oxide type, for example N-cocosalkyl-N,N-dimethylamine oxide and N-tallowalkyl-N,N-dihydroxyethylamine oxide, and fatty acid alkanolamides, may also be suitable. The amount of these non-ionic surfactants is preferably no more than that of the ethoxylated fatty alcohols, and in particular not more than half of it.

[0064] Other suitable surfactants are the polyhydroxy fatty acid amides known as PHFA.

[0065] Finally, other low-foaming non-ionic surfactants from the group of alkoxylated alcohols can also be used.

[0066] Another preferred article is a cleaning agent composition, wherein the composition contains a non-ionic surfactant, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 20 wt.%, particularly preferably 5 to 17 wt.%, and especially preferably 7 to 15 wt.%, based on the total amount of the composition. It is also preferred that mixtures of different non-ionic surfactants are used.

[0067] Another preferred article is a cleaning agent composition, wherein the composition contains a non-ionic surfactant, wherein the non-ionic surfactant is a fatty alcohol ethoxylate of the formula R 1< -O-(EO) m -H, where R 1< is a linear or branched, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group with 16 to 18 C atoms; EO is an ethylene oxide unit; and m is 20 to 30, preferably 22 to 27, particularly 25, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 20 wt.%, particularly preferably 5 to 16 wt.%, particularly preferably 6 to 14 wt.%, based on the total amount of composition.

[0068] The compositions of the cleaning agent portions according to the invention may contain further components, preferably at least one further component, preferably selected from the group consisting of further builders, surfactants, polymers, enzymes, corrosion inhibitors, glass corrosion inhibitors, thickeners, foam inhibitors, dyes, disintegration aids, fragrances and perfume carriers, preferably one or more polymers.

[0069] Preferred anionic surfactants are fatty alcohol sulfates, fatty alcohol ether sulfates, dialkyl ether sulfates, monoglyceride sulfates, alkylbenzenesulfonates, olefin sulfonates, alkanesulfonates, ethersulfonates, n-alkyl ethersulfonates, estersulfonates, and lignosulfonates. Also usable within the scope of the present invention are fatty acid cyanamides, sulfosuccinates (sulfosuccinic acid esters), in particular sulfosuccinic acid mono- and dialkyl esters with 8 to 18 carbon atoms, sulfosuccinamates, sulfosuccinamides, fatty acid isethionates, acylaminoalkanesulfonates (fatty acid taurides), fatty acid sarcosinates, ether carboxylic acids and alkyl (ether) phosphates, as well as α-sulfofaticial acid salts, acylglutamates, monoglyceride disulfates, and alkyl ethers of glycerin disulfate.

[0070] The anionic surfactants are preferably used as sodium salts, but can also be present as other alkali or alkaline earth metal salts, for example potassium or magnesium salts, as well as in the form of ammonium or mono-, di-, tri- or tetraalkylammonium salts, and in the case of sulfonates also in the form of their corresponding acid, e.g. dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid.

[0071] Additional scaffolding materials that can be used include, in particular, carbonates, organic cobuilders and silicates.

[0072] For example, the use of carbonate(s) and / or hydrogen carbonate(s), preferably alkali carbonate(s), particularly preferably sodium carbonate, is possible. Alkali carbonates, especially sodium carbonate, can be present in the composition in various embodiments of the invention in an amount of 1 to 40 wt.%, preferably 2 to 30 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0073] Examples of organic cobuilders include polycarboxylates / polycarboxylic acids, polymeric carboxylates, aspartic acid, polyacetals and dextrins.

[0074] Suitable organic structural materials include, for example, polycarboxylic acids, which can be used in the form of the free acid and / or its sodium salts. Polycarboxylic acids are defined as carboxylic acids that possess more than one acid function. Examples include citric acid, adipic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, sugar acids, amino acids, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), provided that such use is not objectionable for ecological reasons, and mixtures thereof.

[0075] If the aforementioned building materials are used in the composition and / or in the cleaning agent portion, their influence on any existing buffer system must be taken into account.

[0076] Polymeric polycarboxylates are also suitable as framework materials; these include, for example, the alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid or polymethacrylic acid, such as those with a relative molecular mass of 500 to 70000 g / mol.

[0077] Homopolymers, copolymers, and terpolymers can all be used; more complex polymer types are also possible. Suitable polymers include, in particular, polyacrylates and / or copolymers and / or terpolymers containing acrylate monomers, preferably with a molecular weight of 1000 to 20000 g / mol. Due to their superior solubility, short-chain polyacrylates from this group, with molecular weights of 1000 to 10000 g / mol, and especially preferably 3000 to 5000 g / mol, are particularly preferred.

[0078] Preferably, a copolymeric polyacrylate, preferably a sulfopolymer, preferably a copolymeric polysulfonate, or preferably a hydrophobically modified copolymeric polysulfonate is used as the polycarboxylate. The copolymers can have two, three, four, or more different monomer units. Preferred copolymeric polysulfonates contain, in addition to sulfonic acid group-containing monomer(s), at least one monomer from the group of unsaturated carboxylic acids.

[0079] Unsaturated carboxylic acids of the formula R 1< (R 2< )C=C(R 3< )COOH are particularly preferred, in which R 1< to R 3< independently represent -H, -CH 3 , a straight-chain or branched saturated alkyl group with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, a straight-chain or branched, mono- or poly-unsaturated alkenyl group with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, alkyl or alkenyl groups substituted with -NH 2 , -OH or -COOH as defined above, or -COOH or -COOR 4< , where R 4< is a saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon group with 1 to 12 carbon atoms.

[0080] Particularly preferred unsaturated carboxylic acids are acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, ethacrylic acid, α-chloroacrylic acid, α-cyanoacrylic acid, crotonic acid, α-phenylacrylic acid, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, fumaric acid, itaconic acid, citraconic acid, methylenemalonic acid, sorbic acid, cinnamic acid, or mixtures thereof. Unsaturated dicarboxylic acids can, of course, also be used.

[0081] For sulfonic acid group-containing monomers, those of the formula R 5< (R 6< )C=C(R 7< )-X-SO 3 H are preferred, in which R 5< to R 7< independently represent -H, -CH 3 , a straight-chain or branched saturated alkyl group with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, a straight-chain or branched, mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group with 2 to 12 carbon atoms, alkyl or alkenyl groups substituted with -NH 2 , -OH or -COOH, or -COOH or -COOR 4<, where R 4< is a saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon group with 1 to 12 carbon atoms, and X represents an optional spacer group selected from -(CH 2 ) n - with n = 0 to 4. -COO-(CH 2 ) k - with k = 1 to 6, -C(O)-NH-C(CH 3 ) 2 -, -C(O)-NH-C(CH 3 ) 2 -CH 2 - and -C(O)-NH-CH(CH 3 )-CH 2 -.

[0082] Among these monomers, preferred are those of the formulas H₂C=CH-X-SO₃H, H₂C=C(CH₃)-X-SO₃H, or HO₃SX-(R₆<)C=C(R₇<)-X-SO₃H, in which R₆< and R₇< are independently selected from -H, -CH₃, -CH₂CH₃, -CH₂CH₂CH₃, and -CH(CH₃)₂, and X represents an optional spacer group selected from -(CH₂)ₙ (n = 0 to 4), -COO-(CH₂)ₖ (k = 1 to 6), -C(O)-NH-C(CH₃)₂, -C(O)-NH-C(CH₃)₂, and -C(O)-NH-CH(CH₃)₂. )-CH 2 -.

[0083] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, a polymer can comprise acrylamidopropanesulfonic acids, methacrylamidomethylpropanesulfonic acids or acrylamidomethylpropanesulfonic acid as a sulfonic acid group-containing monomer.

[0084] Particularly preferred sulfonic acid group-containing monomers are 1-acrylamido-1-propanesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-propanesulfonic acid, 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid, 2-methacrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid, 3-methacrylamido-2-hydroxy-propanesulfonic acid, allylsulfonic acid, metallylsulfonic acid, allyloxybenzenesulfonic acid, metallyloxybenzenesulfonic acid, 2-hydroxy-3-(2-propenyloxy)propanesulfonic acid, 2-methyl-2-propene1-sulfonic acid, styrenesulfonic acid, vinylsulfonic acid, 3-sulfopropyl acrylate, 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate, sulfomethacrylamide, sulfomethylmethacrylamide, and mixtures of the aforementioned acids or their water-soluble salts. In the polymers, the sulfonic acid groups can be present wholly or partially in neutralized form, meaning that the acidic hydrogen atom of the sulfonic acid group in some or all sulfonic acid groups can be exchanged for metal ions, preferably alkali metal ions and especially for sodium ions.The use of partially or fully neutralized copolymers containing sulfonic acid groups is preferred according to the invention.

[0085] The monomer distribution of the copolymers preferably used according to the invention is, in the case of copolymers containing only carboxylic acid group-containing monomers and sulfonic acid group-containing monomers, preferably 5 to 95 wt.% each, and particularly preferably the proportion of the sulfonic acid group-containing monomer is 50 to 90 wt.% and the proportion of the carboxylic acid group-containing monomer is 10 to 50 wt.%, the monomers being preferably selected from those mentioned above. The molar mass of the sulfo copolymers preferably used according to the invention can be varied to adapt the properties of the polymers to the desired application. Preferred cleaning agents are characterized in that the copolymers have molar masses of 2000 to 200,000 g·mol⁻¹, preferably of 4000 to 25,000 g·mol⁻¹, and particularly of 5000 to 15,000 g·mol⁻¹.

[0086] In a further preferred embodiment, the copolymers comprise, in addition to a carboxyl group-containing monomer and a sulfonic acid group-containing monomer, at least one non-ionic, preferably hydrophobic monomer.

[0087] Particularly preferably, an anionic copolymer can be included in an embodiment, wherein the anionic copolymer is a copolymer comprising i) Monomers containing carboxylic acid groups ii) Monomers containing sulfonic acid groups iii) Non-ionic monomers, especially hydrophobic monomers is used.

[0088] Preferably, nonionic monomers of the general formula R 1< (R 2< )C=C(R 3< )-XR 4< are used, in which R 1< to R 3< independently represent -H, -CH 3 or -C 2 H 5, X represents an optional spacer group selected from -CH 2 -, -C(O)O- and -C(O)-NH-, and R 4< represents a straight-chain or branched saturated alkyl group with 2 to 22 carbon atoms or an unsaturated, preferably aromatic group with 6 to 22 carbon atoms.

[0089] Particularly favored nonionic monomers are butene, isobutene, pentene, 3-methylbutene, 2-methylbutene, cyclopentene, hexene, hexene-1, 2-methylpentene-1, 3-methylpentene-1, cyclohexene, methylcyclopentene, cycloheptene, methylcyclohexene, 2,4,4-trimethylpentene-1, 2,4,4-trimethylpentene-2,2,3-dimethylhexene-1, 2,4-diemethylhexene-1, 2,5-dimethylhexene-1, 3,5-dimethylhexene-1, 4,4-dimethylhexane-1, ethylcyclohexyne, 1-octene, α-olefins with 10 or more carbon atoms such as 1-decene, 1-dodecene, 1-hexadecene, 1-Octadecene and C22-α-olefin, 2-styrene, α-methylstyrene, 3-methylstyrene, 4-propylstyrene, 4-cyclohexylstyrene, 4-dodecylstyrene, 2-ethyl-4-benzylstyrene, 1-vinylnaphthalene, 2-vinylnaphthalene, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, propyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, pentyl acrylate, hexyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, N-(methyl)acrylamide, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, methacrylic acid 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, N-(2-ethylhexyl)acrylamide, octyl acrylateMethacrylic acid octyl ester, N-(octyl)acrylamide, acrylic acid lauryl ester, methacrylic acid lauryl ester, N-(lauryl)acrylamide, acrylic acid stearyl ester, methacrylic acid stearyl ester, N-(stearyl)acrylamide, acrylic acid behenyl ester, methacrylic acid behenyl ester and N-(behenyl)acrylamide or mixtures thereof, in particular acrylic acid, ethyl acrylate, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and mixtures thereof.

[0090] Polyacrylate-containing polymers can be present in the composition in amounts of 0.5 to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.6 to 10 wt.%, and particularly preferably in amounts of 0.8 to 3 wt.% or 1 to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the composition. Mixtures of different polymers can also be used.

[0091] The compositions can further comprise crystalline layered silicates of the general formula NaMSi x O 2x+1 · y H 2 O as a framework material, where M represents sodium or hydrogen, x is a number from 1.9 to 22, preferably from 1.9 to 4, with particularly preferred values ​​for x being 2, 3 or 4, and y is a number from 0 to 33, preferably from 0 to 20. Amorphous sodium silicates with a Na 2 O : SiO 2 modulus of 1:2 to 1:3.3, preferably from 1:2 to 1:2.8 and particularly from 1:2 to 1:2.6, which are preferably retardant and exhibit secondary washing properties, can also be used. In preferred compositions, the silicate content, based on the total weight of the composition, is limited to amounts below 10 wt.%, preferably below 7 wt.% and particularly below 5 wt.%. Particularly preferred compositions of the cleaning agent portion contain silicate as a building block.Particularly preferred compositions contain silicate in the specified quantity range as fraction A, based on the total weight of the composition. Furthermore, it is preferred that the amount of silicate, based on the mass of fraction A, is between 5 and 50 wt.%, preferably between 10 and 30 wt.%, and most preferably between 15 and 25 wt.%.

[0092] Within the scope of the present invention, individual odorant compounds, such as synthetic products of the ester, ether, aldehyde, ketone, alcohol, and hydrocarbon type, can be used as perfume oils or fragrances. However, mixtures of different odorants that together produce an appealing fragrance are preferred. Such perfume oils can also contain natural odorant mixtures, such as those available from plant sources, for example, pine, citrus, jasmine, patchouli, rose, or ylang-ylang oil.

[0093] In preferred embodiments, the cleaning agent portion and / or the composition is phosphate- and / or phosphonate-free. "Phosphate-free" and "phosphonate-free," as used herein, means that the composition in question is substantially free of phosphates or phosphonates, i.e., in particular, contains phosphates or phosphonates in amounts of less than 0.1 wt.%, preferably less than 0.01 wt.%, based on the total portion. Preferably, the total amount of phosphorus should not exceed 0.3 g per job, preferably 0.03 g.

[0094] Therefore, another preferred article is a portion of cleaning agent, wherein the portion of cleaning agent is phosphate and / or phosphonate-free.

[0095] In other possible embodiments, the composition may contain bleach or be bleach-free. A preferred embodiment contains a bleach, particularly preferably in fraction A, and more preferably exclusively in fraction A. A preferred bleach is an alkali metal percarbonate, preferably sodium percarbonate. In these preferred embodiments, a bleach, preferably sodium percarbonate, may be contained in fraction A in an amount of 1 to 50 wt.%, preferably 5 to 30 wt.% or 10 to 40 wt.%, based on the total weight of fraction A.

[0096] It is a further preferred subject matter that the compositions described above can be used for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher in a normal cleaning cycle carried out for cleaning items, in particular dirty dishes, in which a machine dishwashing detergent is also used.

[0097] It is possible to compose the claimed cleaning agent portion such that an acidic rinse solution is initially obtained during the pre-rinse cycle. Subsequently, for example, if the composition contains a buffer system, the pH value of the rinse solution can be increased by progressively dissolving the composition. Preferably, for the further course of the wash cycle, a pH value of 3.0 to 7.0, particularly preferably 3.0 to 6.5, and most preferably 4.6 to 5.7, is achieved in the existing rinse solution before the machine dishwashing detergent is dosed, through the complete dissolution of the claimed composition.

[0098] The packaging of the cleaning agent portions and / or care products described herein can be carried out in various ways. At least one component, B, can be in solid or liquid form, or as a combination of both. Powders and granules are particularly suitable as solid forms. The liquid forms, based on water and / or organic solvents, can be thickened or presented as gels.

[0099] In preferred embodiments, the care product is in a form in which at least one component A and at least one component B are solid. "Solid" in this context means that the components are in solid form under standard conditions (temperature 25°C, pressure 1013 mbar). In various embodiments, an optional surfactant and / or the at least one acid or the buffer system is in a solid state at 25°C (pressure 1013 mbar), for example as a powder or granules, and—when processed with the other components of the solid care product—does not impair the flowability of the produced care product and can therefore be incorporated in any quantity.

[0100] To simplify use for the consumer and ensure correct dosage, the composition is available in pre-portioned form. This can be any form of packaging that complies with the aforementioned conditions. Compositions in the form of, for example, a multiphase tablet or a multiphase pouch are preferred. In both multiphase tablets and multiphase pouches, the different phases can be arranged one above the other, side by side, or simultaneously both.

[0101] To facilitate application, the composition is contained in a water-soluble coating. It is particularly preferred if the water-soluble packaging is a polyvinyl alcohol-containing film.

[0102] It is preferred that the water-soluble coating contains polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer. Water-soluble coatings containing polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer exhibit good stability with sufficiently high water solubility, particularly cold water solubility.

[0103] Suitable water-soluble films for producing the water-soluble coating are preferably based on a polyvinyl alcohol or a polyvinyl alcohol copolymer whose molecular weight is in the range of 10,000 to 1,000,000 gmol⁻¹, preferably from 20,000 to 500,000 gmol⁻¹, particularly preferably from 30,000 to 100,000 gmol⁻¹ and particularly from 40,000 to 80,000 gmol⁻¹.

[0104] Polyvinyl alcohol is usually produced by hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate, as a direct synthesis route is not possible. The same applies to polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, which are produced from polyvinyl acetate copolymers. It is preferred that at least one layer of the water-soluble coating comprises a polyvinyl alcohol with a degree of hydrolysis of 70 to 100 mol%, preferably 80 to 90 mol%, particularly preferably 81 to 89 mol%, and especially 82 to 88 mol%.

[0105] A polyvinyl alcohol-containing film material suitable for producing the water-soluble coating may additionally contain a polymer selected from the group comprising (meth)acrylic acid-containing (co)polymers, polyacrylamides, oxazoline polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, polyurethanes, polyesters, polyethers, polylactic acid, or mixtures of the aforementioned polymers. Polylactic acids are a preferred additional polymer.

[0106] Preferred polyvinyl alcohol copolymers comprise, in addition to vinyl alcohol, dicarboxylic acids as further monomers. Suitable dicarboxylic acids are itaconic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, and mixtures thereof, with itaconic acid being preferred.

[0107] Also preferred are polyvinyl alcohol copolymers comprising, in addition to vinyl alcohol, an ethylene-unsaturated carboxylic acid, its salt, or its ester. Particularly preferred are such polyvinyl alcohol copolymers containing, besides vinyl alcohol, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid esters, methacrylic acid esters, or mixtures thereof.

[0108] It may be preferable for the film material to contain further additives. For example, the film material may contain plasticizers such as dipropylene glycol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol, or mixtures thereof. Other additives include, for example, release agents, fillers, crosslinking agents, surfactants, antioxidants, UV absorbers, antiblocking agents, anti-adhesion agents, or mixtures thereof.

[0109] Suitable water-soluble films for use in the water-soluble outer layers of the water-soluble packaging according to the invention are films marketed by MonoSol LLC, for example, under the designations M8630, C8400, or M8900. Other suitable films include films designated Solublon® PT, Solublon® GA, Solublon® KC, or Solublon® KL by Aicello Chemical Europe GmbH, or the VF-HP films by Kuraray.

[0110] Furthermore, it is preferred if the composition is used in an amount of 10 to 30 g / job, preferably 13 to 23 g / job, in particular 15 to 21 g / job.

[0111] The composition can be formulated such that the at least one component A and the at least one component B are present in the composition in a weight ratio of 3:1 to 1:10, preferably in a weight ratio of 1:1 to 1:8, in particular of 1:3 to 1:7, for example of 1:4 to 1:6, based on the respective quantities of components A and B.

[0112] A preferred embodiment is a cleaning agent portion comprising a water-soluble coating and at least one composition for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, the composition containing at least one buffer system consisting of at least one acid and at least one base. wherein the composition comprises at least two parts, wherein at least one part A is a compressed part and at least one part B is an uncompressed or a further compressed part, wherein any compressed part B is less compressed than part A, and wherein at least one compressed part B has been compressed by 10 to 45%, preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the uncompressed part B used to produce the cleaning agent portion, and at least one more highly compressed part A has been compressed by at least 8 kN / cm², particularly preferably by at least 10 kN / cm², in particular by at least 12 kN / cm², for example by 12 to 25 kN / cm², and wherein the at least one base contained in this buffer system comprises 40 to 75 wt.%, preferably 50 to 70 wt.%, in particular 60 to 69 wt.%.-% is contained in fraction B, based on the total amount of base in the composition, and wherein the composition contains nonionic surfactant, preferably in an amount of 5 to 17 wt.%, particularly preferably 7 to 15 wt.%, based on the total amount of composition, and wherein the composition is used in an amount of 10 to 30 g / job, preferably 13 to 23 g / job, particularly 15 to 21 g / job.

[0113] Another preferred embodiment is a cleaning agent portion comprising a water-soluble coating and at least one composition for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, the composition containing at least one buffer system consisting of at least one acid and at least one base. wherein the composition comprises at least two parts, wherein at least one part A is a compressed part and at least one part B is a non-compressed part, and wherein the at least one base contained in this buffer system is present in part B in an amount of 40 to 75 wt.%, preferably 50 to 70 wt.%, in particular 60 to 69 wt.%, based on the total amount of base in the composition, and wherein the composition contains non-ionic surfactant, preferably in an amount of 5 to 17 wt.%, particularly preferably 7 to 15 wt.%, based on the total amount of composition, and wherein the composition is used in an amount of 10 to 30 g / job, preferably 13 to 23 g / job, in particular 15 to 21 g / job.

[0114] The present invention also relates to a method for producing portions of cleaning agents according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: a) Providing a mold with at least one mold cavity; b) Feeding a water-soluble film onto the mold cavity; c) Forming an open chamber in the mold cavity by deforming the water-soluble film; d) Filling the open chamber with at least one particulate fraction B according to this application; e) Optionally increasing the bulk density of the particulate fraction B by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted fraction B used to produce the cleaning agent portion; f) Optionally creating a cavity in fraction B; g) Filling the open chamber and / or the cavity in fraction B with at least one fraction A according to this application; h) Providing a second water-soluble film as a lid; i) Placing the open chamber and the lid on top of each other to seal the portion pack at a sealing area; j) Sealing the lid to the open chamber.

[0115] The mold comprises at least one cavity (mold cavity). The mold can be provided, for example, as a single mold or as part of a series of molds in the form of a conveyor belt, as known from conveyor belt and drum processes. The mold includes an area on which the film can be placed, e.g., a sealing area, which is typically defined around the opening of a mold cavity. The mold cavity can have various geometries; if edges are present, it is advantageous for them to be rounded. Rounded edges and / or domed cavities ensure that, when the film is drawn into the cavity, it is drawn more homogeneously, thus maintaining a uniform film thickness and preventing breaks or tears, which in turn leads to a more stable portion pack.

[0116] The water-soluble film can be fed from a roll and guided onto the mold cavity. The film is positioned and held in place on the mold. This holding can be achieved by suction holes on the mold surface, which is not part of the mold cavity. Alternatively, the film can be held on the mold by mechanical means, such as clamps. For example, the film can be held in place by a stamp that presses on the sealing area. In continuous manufacturing processes, such as drum and conveyor belt processes, it is preferred that the film speed is matched to the speed of the conveyor belt formed by the molds, so that the film is not unnecessarily stretched by being held against a moving mold.

[0117] After the film is held in place relative to the mold cavity, a chamber is formed within the mold cavity by at least partially conforming the film to the cavity. This conformity is achieved through elastic and / or plastic deformation. Preferably, the film deformation has a greater plastic than elastic component. The deformation of the water-soluble film is achieved, for example, by deep drawing or using suitable dies. A preferred variant is deep drawing by applying a vacuum (forming pressure) in the mold cavity. For this purpose, the mold cavity preferably includes small openings, ideally in the base area, which are connected to a vacuum pump via appropriate lines.

[0118] After forming the open chamber, it or parts thereof are filled in step d) with at least one particulate fraction B. Subsequently, the particulate fraction can be compacted in an optional step e). It is preferred if the particulate fraction B is compacted by 5 to 50%, more preferably by 10 to 45%, and particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the uncompacted fraction B used to produce the cleaning agent portion. In one embodiment, it is preferred that the process includes a step e).

[0119] Simultaneously with, subsequently with, or omitted from the optional step(s) e), a trough can be created in the particle-like portion B, the compacted portion B, or the portion B undergoing compaction in a step f). In one embodiment, it is preferred that the method includes both a step e) and a step f), and it is particularly preferred that these steps take place simultaneously.

[0120] Step g) comprises filling the open chamber and / or the optional recess in the particulate matter B with at least one component A. It is possible that the component A is attached in the optional recess or to the particulate matter B, for example by gluing. In a preferred embodiment, the attachment of the at least one component A in this step is omitted.

[0121] In addition to the method(s) already described, another possible embodiment is a method in which the components A and B are introduced into the open chamber in a different order.

[0122] One possible embodiment is therefore a method for producing portions of cleaning agent, comprising: a) Providing a mold with at least one mold cavity; b) Feeding a water-soluble film onto the mold cavity; c) Forming an open chamber in the mold cavity by deforming the water-soluble film; d) Filling the open chamber with at least one portion A according to this application; e) Filling the open chamber with at least one particulate portion B according to this application; f) Optionally increasing the bulk density of the particulate portion B by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted portion B used to produce the cleaning agent portion; g) Optionally creating a cavity in portion B; h) Optionally filling the open chamber and / or the cavity in portion B with a further portion A according to this application; i) Providing a second water-soluble film as a lid;j) Aligning the open chamber and the lid to seal the portion pack at a sealing area; k) Sealing the lid to the open chamber.

[0123] During filling with product, the deformed film is preferably held in the cavity throughout the filling process. For example, when applying a vacuum, the vacuum is only broken after sealing. The vacuum, after the chamber has formed, can be lower (higher pressure) than the forming pressure, serving only to hold the film in place.

[0124] The chamber is filled by introducing at least one proportion A and at least one proportion B, in particular by those described above as being according to the invention.

[0125] It is important that the sealing area remains free of product. For example, if the chamber is at least partially elastically deformed, this elastic deformation must not decrease after filling and before sealing to such an extent that the product flows over and out of the open chamber and thus contaminates the sealing area.

[0126] According to a particular embodiment, the lid is positioned on the open chamber so that, in the next step, the lid can be applied to the sealing area. The position of the lid is generally determined relative to the position of the chamber. If the chamber moves with a movable mold in a conveyor belt, the lid must move accordingly so that its relative position to the chamber remains constant.

[0127] The lid is then placed on the open chamber, thus sealing it. The contact between the lid and the film in the sealing area closes the chamber. A preferred sealing method involves fusing the film and lid together, for example, by partially dissolving the film before applying the lid, or by melting the film and / or lid in the sealing area. Alternatively, sealing can be achieved by gluing or welding.

[0128] Positioning, application, and sealing can take place either in separate steps or simultaneously.

[0129] It is particularly preferred that the lid is provided as part of a belt, by feeding / transferring it from a belt comprising at least one lid. The singulation of the lid can take place before positioning, after positioning but before application, during application, or after application to the chamber.

[0130] In the case of singulation prior to positioning, the lid is preferably die-cut. The lid and film can also be separated simultaneously with the sealing process. The device, which creates the seal by melting, consists of at least two parts: the mold itself and a counter-punch that presses onto the mold from the lid side. It is preferred that, during the sealing step, the pressure exerted by the mold and the counter-punch during sealing must be lower in the sealing area than the pressure exerted in the singulation area. The singulation area surrounds the sealing area.

[0131] In the case of singulation after sealing, the lid and film are preferably separated from the belt in the same step, thus singulating the portion packs.

[0132] Also part of the present invention is a method for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher using the claimed portion of cleaning agent, wherein the portion of cleaning agent is dosed into the interior of the automatic dishwasher at the beginning of the cleaning cycle, preferably before the machine dishwashing detergent.

[0133] For the further course of the washing process and its effect, it is preferred if a pH value of 3.0 to 7.0, particularly preferably 3.0 to 6.5, most preferably 4.6 to 5.7, is achieved in the existing washing solution before dosing of the machine dishwashing detergent by completely dissolving the claimed composition.

[0134] Dosing or adding detergent to the interior of the dishwasher means that the portion of detergent or the machine-mixed dishwashing liquid enters the interior of the dishwasher, for example, by manual insertion, by opening the dosing flap (possibly via a program), and / or by automatic addition from an automatic dosing device. The detergent portion or the machine-mixed dishwashing liquid may be available for cleaning and / or maintenance purposes immediately or only after a certain period of time. This depends on the dissolution rate and thus on the type, composition, and properties of the product or its composition. According to this definition, the dissolution process is not part of dosing or adding detergent.The dissolving process of any water-soluble coating, such as a film, is also not part of the dosing or dispensing of the cleaning agent portion or the machine dishwashing detergent.

[0135] Dosing the detergent at the beginning of the cleaning cycle allows the composition of the detergent portion to contribute to cleaning and / or maintaining the dishwasher during the pre-rinse and / or the beginning of the main wash cycle. Adding a dishwasher detergent later can help maintain the conditions necessary for cleaning and / or maintaining the dishwasher.

[0136] In the following exemplary embodiment, the composition of the cleaning agent portion according to the invention is described in a non-limiting manner. Examples:

[0137] Below are two exemplary compositions of a cleaning agent portion according to the invention. All quantities are given as weight percent of the total quantity of the composition. Example 1

[0138] Proportion A, m = 2.5 g % by weight silicate 3.0 to 4.0 Non-ionic surfactant 1< 1.0 to 2.5 Sodium citrate dihydrate 7 to 13 Acrylate-containing polymer 2< 0.5 to 2 Percarbonat 0 to 8 Water, dye 0.1 to 0.5 Proportion B, m = 13 g % by weight Non-ionic surfactant 3< , scales 7 to 15 Sodium citrate anhydrous 20 to 40 Anhydrous citric acid 25 to 45 Perfume, other 6 to 8 Example 2

[0139] Proportion A, m = 3.0 g % by weight silicate 3.0 to 4.0 Non-ionic surfactant 1< 1.0 to 2.5 Sodium citrate dihydrate 7 to 13 Acrylate-containing polymer 2< 0.5 to 2 Percarbonat 0 to 8 Water, dye 0.1 to 0.5 Proportion B, m = 13 q % by weight Non-ionic surfactant 3< , scales 7 to 15 Sodium citrate anhydrous 20 to 40 Anhydrous citric acid 25 to 45 Perfume, other 6 to 8 1< Mixture of nonionic surfactants from fatty alcohol ethoxylate and end-capped fatty alcohol ethoxylate 2< Acrylate-containing homo-, co-, or terpolymer or mixtures thereof 3< Ethoxylated C16-C18 fatty alcohol with 25 EO

Claims

1. Detergent portion comprising a water-soluble coating and at least one composition for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher, the composition containing at least ii) a buffer system comprising at least one acid and at least one base, characterized in that the composition has at least two portions, at least one portion A being a compressed portion and at least one portion B being a non-compressed portion or a further compressed portion, wherein an optionally compressed portion B is less compressed than portion A, wherein (ii) the buffer system contains at least one organic acid, in particular citric acid, and the corresponding base, in particular citrate wherein the acid from (ii) is contained in at least one portion B in an amount of 80 to 100% by weight, based on the amount of acid in the total composition, and wherein the at least one base of the buffer system ii) is contained in portion B in an amount of 40 to 75% by weight, based on the total amount of base in the total composition.

2. Detergent portion according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the at least one acid from ii) is contained in an amount of 1 to 80% by weight, preferably in an amount of 5 to 60% by weight, particularly preferably in an amount of 20 to 35% by weight or in an amount of 25 to 45% by weight, based on the total composition, and / or the absolute amount of the at least one acid from ii) in the total composition is 0.2 to 16 g / job, preferably 3 to 11 g / job, particularly preferably 4 to 10 g / job, for example 7 to 9 g / job.

3. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the composition has at least one compressed portion A and at least one less strongly compressed portion B, and wherein at least one compressed portion B has been compacted by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, based on the bulk density of the non-compacted portion B used to produce the detergent portion.

4. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the composition comprises at least one compressed portion A and at least one less strongly compressed portion B, and wherein at least one more strongly compressed portion A has been compressed with at least 8 kN / cm2, particularly preferably with at least 10 kN / cm2, especially with at least 12 kN / cm2.

5. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the acid from ii) is contained in at least one portion B in an amount of 95 to 100% by weight, most preferably in an amount of at least 99% by weight, based on the amount of acid in the total composition.

6. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the at least one base of the buffer system ii) is contained in proportion B in an amount of 50 to 70% by weight in particular 60 to 69 % by weight, based on the total amount of base in the overall composition.

7. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the composition contains nonionic surfactant, preferably in an amount of 0.1 to 20% by weight, particularly preferably in an amount of 5 to 17% by weight, especially preferably in an amount of 7 to 15% by weight, based on the total amount of composition.

8. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the detergent portion can be used in a normal cleaning cycle, which is carried out for cleaning items to be washed, in particular dirty dishes, in which a machine dishwashing detergent is also used.

9. Detergent portion according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the composition is contained in an amount of 10 to 30 g / job, preferably 13 to 23 g / job, in particular 15 to 21 g / job.

10. Detergent portion according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning agent portion is free of phosphate and / or phosphonate.

11. Detergent portion according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning agent portion comprises at least one further component selected from the group consisting of further building blocks, surfactants, polymers, enzymes, corrosion inhibitors, glass corrosion inhibitors, thickeners, foam inhibitors, dyes, disintegration aids, fragrances, and perfume carriers, preferably one or more polymers.

12. Detergent portion according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one component A and the at least one component B are present in the composition in a weight ratio of 3:1 to 1:10, preferably in a weight ratio of 1:1 to 1:8, in particular of 1:3 to 1:7, for example of 1:4 to 1:6, based on the respective amounts of components A and B.

13. Method for producing detergent portions according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: a) providing a mold with at least one mold cavity; b) feeding a water-soluble film onto the mold cavity; c) forming an open chamber in the mold cavity by deforming the water-soluble film; d) filling the open chamber with at least one particulate component B; e) optionally increasing the bulk density of the particulate component B by 5 to 50%, preferably by 10 to 45%, particularly preferably by 15 to 40%, relative to the bulk density of the uncompacted component B used to produce the detergent portion; f) optionally creating a depression in component B; g) filling the open chamber and / or the depression in component B with a component A; h) providing a second water-soluble film as a lid; i) Placing the open chamber and the lid on top of each other to seal the portion pack at a sealing area; j) Sealing the lid to the open chamber.

14. Method for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher using a detergent portion according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the detergent portion is dispensed into the interior of the automatic dishwasher at the beginning of the cleaning cycle, preferably before the machine dishwashing detergent.

15. Use of a detergent portion according to one of claims 1 to 12 and / or a method according to claim 14 for cleaning and / or maintaining an automatic dishwasher.