Animal litter with reduced dust emission

Abstract

Animal litter comprising absorbing mineral-based granules preferably with agglomerating powder and a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains

Description

[0001] ANIMAL LITTER WITH REDUCED DUST EMISSION

[0002] The invention relates to an animal litter, preferably a cat litter, more particularly containing mineral-based granules and a preparation method thereof, in particular to green ecological dust-free animal litter and cat litter and a preparation method thereof. Further, the present invention relates to a cat litter additive reducing dust.

[0003] The animal litter, especially small animal litter, more particularly cat litter, is a large consumption pet product. For animal litter currently available on the market, the criteria for choosing one animal litter is becoming more and more specific. Indeed, the litter material should be able to be solidified into blocks when contacted with feces and urine of the animal, and the litter material which is not contacted with the feces and urine should not be polluted; the litter material should be able to prevent odours and should be dust free. Sometimes, a bacteriostatic or anti-bacterial property of the litter material is also sought.

[0004] With the ecological awareness of the population, the consumer also becomes more and more concerned by the ecological, even organic aspect of the products that he accepts at home. Pet products and animal litter is no exception to this rule.

[0005] However, the consumer does not intend to renounce the quality of the litter and always looks for the anti-dust properties, for the agglomeration of soiled parts, good absorption rates etc.

[0006] Yet all of these desirable litter properties were typically imparted by either polymer granules, or by treating the mineral-based granular material with petroleum-based chemical additives to confer special properties.

[0007] There is accordingly a need to provide an animal litter which is more environmentally friendly without compromising quality. More particularly, there is a need to provide a dust-free litter material which contains mineral-based granules for their high absorption properties and preferably containing some binding agent to provide the agglomeration properties which is more ecological and not having recourse mandatorily to petroleum-based chemical additives.

[0008] To this end, the present invention provides an animal litter comprising absorbing mineral-based granules and a dust suppressant formulation comprising a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains, preferably said animal litter comprising agglomerating powder, wherein said animal litter having a dust generation lower than or equal to 50 mg / m3evaluated by drop test of 20-25 grams of said animal litter.

[0009] As it can be understood, the animal litter according to the present invention is a dust free litter material comprising a dust suppressant formulation comprising a series of pet-safe biofilm forming bacterial strains. Said biofilm forming bacterial strains producing natural polymers such as polysaccharides and protein matrix, also known under the name of biofilm to bind dust particles together and therefore avoiding their escape in the surrounding atmosphere.

[0010] Advantageously, said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said animal litter according to the present invention is a series of petsafe biofilm forming bacterial strains.

[0011] It is understood by the present invention and by the terms “pet-safe biofilm forming bacterial strains” that said bacterial strains used in the present invention are safe for animals and pets. While most of the litter material are disclosed with either bacteriostatic or bactericide ingredients to avoid growth of microorganism in animal litter, it has been realised according to the present invention having a series of pet-safe bacterial strains which will form biofilm is an attractive alternative to petroleum-based chemicals to reduce the emission of dust of the mineral-based granules and optionally of the binding powder. The bacterial strains have shown a sufficient dust reducing capability to stick to the dust emission criteria applicable for animal litter or consumer products. Accordingly, the present invention is able to provide an organic alternative to petroleum-based chemistry related to dust suppression in animal litter.

[0012] Advantageously, said animal litter according to the present invention, having a dust generation evaluated by drop test of 20-25 grams of said animal litter lower than or equal to 45 mg / m3, preferably lower than or equal to 40 mg / m3, more preferably lower than or equal to 35 mg / m3, even more preferably lower than or equal to 30 mg / m3, in particular lower than or equal to 25 mg / m3, even more particularly lower than or equal to 20 mg / m3, advantageously lower than or equal to 15 mg / m3, more advantageously lower than or equal to 10 mg / m3.

[0013] More preferably, the at least one strain of the said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said dust suppressant formulation according to the present invention, is chosen amongst the Bacillus genus.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention, said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said dust suppressant formulation is a cocktail of more than one strain of the Bacillus genus, for example chosen amongst the species B. subtilis, B. pumilis, B. licheniformis, B. velezensis, B. megaterium, B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention, said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is a cocktail of more than 3 strains of the Bacillus genus, preferably more than 4 strains of the Bacillus genus, more preferably more than 5 strains of the Bacillus genus.

[0016] Indeed, in the selection of biofilm forming bacterial strains made by the inventors, in particular Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus pumilis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus subtilis subspecies Inaquosorum, Bacillus subtilis subspecies subtilis, Bacillus velezensis, it turns out that when two, three, four or even five or more different species of bacteria are present in the dust suppressant formulation of the present invention, the ability to form a biofilm and the dust suppressant activity are improved.

[0017] For example, said dust suppressant formulation of said animal litter according to the present invention comprises a series of B. amyloliquefaciens, a series of B. licheniformis, a series of B. subtilis subsp. Inaquosorum, a series of B. megaterium, a series of B. subtilis subsp. Subtilis.

[0018] For example, said dust suppressant formulation of said animal litter according to the present invention comprises a series of B. subtilis, a series of B. pumilis, a series of B. licheniformis, a series of B. velezensis, a series of B. megaterium.

[0019] In yet a preferred embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention, said dust suppressant formulation comprising said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is coated on said mineral based granules.

[0020] For example, said dust suppressant formulation comprising said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is coated using a spraying nozzle on said mineral based granules.

[0021] In a particular embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention, said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains in said dust suppressant formulation is present at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 104cfu / g of animal litter, in particular at an amount of at least 5.0 x 104cfu / g of animal litter, preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, in particular at an amount of at least 5.0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, more particular at an amount of at least 8.0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, more preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 106cfu / g of animal litter, and even more preferably at an amount of at least 1.0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 1010cfu / g of animal litter.

[0022] In particular, the series of biofilm forming bacteria species of the dust suppressant formulation of the present invention contains:

[0023] - at least 0.1 million (Ixl O5), in particular at least 0.5 million (5xl 05), more particular at least 0.8 million (8xl05), preferably at least 1 million (1x106), more preferably at least 2 million (2x106), in particular at least 4 million (4x106), particularly at least 4.7 million (4.7x106), preferably at least 5 million (5x106), more preferably at least 10 million (Ixl O7), in particular at least 20 million (2x107), particularly at least 50 million (5x107) preferably at least 70 million (7x107), more preferably at least 100 million (Ixl O8), particularly at least 150 million (1 .5x108) preferably at least 200 million (2x108), more preferably at least 250 million (2.5x108), in particular at least 300 million (3x108), particularly at least 350 million (3.5x108), more preferably at least 400 million (4x108), particularly at least 450 million (4.5x108) , more preferably at least 500 million (5x108), cfu of Bacillus licheniformis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0024] - at least 10 million (Ixl O7), preferably at least 50 million (5x107), more preferably at least 100 million (Ixl O8), in particular at least 200 million (2x108), particularly at least 300 million (3x108), advantageously at least 400 million (4xl 08), more particular at least 500 million (6xl08), in particular at least 700 million (7x108) , preferably at least 800 million (8x108), even more preferably at least 900 million (9x108), for example at least 920 million (9.2x108), preferably at least 950 million (9.5x108), more preferably at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), cfu of Bacillus megaterium per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0025] - at least 100 thousand (Ixl O5), preferably at least 300 thousand (3x105), more particular 500 thousand (5x105), more preferably at least 830 thousand (8.3x105), in particular at least 1 million (Ixl O6), particularly at least 2 million (2x106), advantageously at least 3 million (3x106), more particular at least 4 million (4x106), cfu of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0026] - at least 100 million (IxlO8), particularly at least 250 million (2.5x108) preferably at least 400 million (4x108), more preferably at least 600 million (6x108), in particular at least 750 million (7.5x108), particularly at least 800 million (8x108), more preferably at least 900 million (9x108), in particular at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), preferably at least 2 billion (2x109), more particular 2.8 billion (2.8x109), more preferably at least 3.6 billion (3.6x109), in particular at least 5 billion (5x109), particularly at least 7 billion (7x109), advantageously at least 7.2 billion (7.2x109), more particular at least 8 billion (8x109), particularly at least 8.5 billion (8.5x109), cfu of Bacillus subtilis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM- D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0027] - at least 0.1 billion (Ixl O8), preferably at least 0.3 billion (3x108), more particular 0.5 billion (5x108), more preferably at least 0.8 billion (8x108), in particular at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), particularly at least 2 billion (2x109), advantageously at least 3 billion (3x109), more particular at least 3.2 billion (3.2x109) , preferably at least 4 billion (4x109) , advantageously at least 5 billion (5x109), more particular at least 7 billion (7x109) cfu of Bacillus subtilis subspecies Inaquosorum per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0028] - at least 0.1 billion (Ixl O8), preferably at least 0.3 billion (3x108), more particular 0.5 billion (5x108), more preferably at least 0.8 billion (8x108), in particular at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), particularly at least 2 billion (2x109), advantageously at least 3 billion (3x109), more particular at least 3.2 billion (3.2x109) , preferably at least 4 billion (4x109) , advantageously at least 5 billion (5x109), more particular at least 7 billion (7x109) cfu of Bacillus subtilis subspecies subtilis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0029] - at least 0.1 billion (Ixl O8), preferably at least 0.3 billion (3x108), more particular 0.5 billion (5x108), more preferably at least 0.8 billion (8x108), in particular at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), particularly at least 2 billion (2x109), advantageously at least 3 billion (3x109), more particular at least 3.2 billion (3.2x109) , preferably at least 4 billion (4x109) , advantageously at least 5 billion (5x109), more particular at least 7 billion (7x109) cfu of Bacillus subtilis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0030] - at least 10 million (Ixl O7), preferably at least 50 million (5x107), more particular 100 million (Ixl O8), more preferably at least 200 million (2x108), in particular at least 300 million (3x108), particularly at least 350 million (3.5x108), advantageously at least 400 million (4x108), more particular at least 450 million (4.5x108), even more preferably at least 500 million (5x108) cfu of Bacillus pumilis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard, and / or

[0031] - at least 0.1 billion (Ixl O8), preferably at least 0.5 billion (5x108), more particular 0.8 billion (8x108), more preferably at least 1 billion (Ixl O9), in particular at Ieast 2 billion (2xl 09), particularly at least 2.5 billion (2.5x109), advantageously at least 3 billion (3x109), more particular at least 3.5 billion (3.5x109), even more preferably at least 4 billion (4x109), advantageously at least 4.5 billion (4.5x109) , in particular at least 5 billion (5x109) cfu of Bacillus velezensis per gram of the dust suppressant formulation measured according to ASTM-D5465-93 (dated 1998) standard.

[0032] In a very particular embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention, in said dust suppressant formulation said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is adsorbed on a latex binder, preferably on a biobased latex binder having surfactant properties, more preferably on a biobased starch latex binder, more preferably on a biobased modified starch latex binder.

[0033] More specifically, according to the present invention, said latex binder is a powder.

[0034] More preferably, said dust suppressant formulation of the animal litter according to the present invention comprises at least one additive, for example at least one tackifying agent, chosen amongst glycerol, glycerine, crude glycerine, Arabic gum, xanthan gum, acacia gum, agar gum, lignosulfonate, sodium lignosulfonate, calcium lignosulfonate, ammonium lignosulfonate, molasses, corn syrup, corn syrup solids, and their mixture.

[0035] In particular, said dust suppressant formulation additionally comprises glycerine or crude glycerine.

[0036] In particular, said dust suppressant formulation additionally comprises glycerine or crude glycerine, and xanthan gum. In particular, said dust suppressant formulation additionally comprises acacia gum and xanthan gum.

[0037] In particular, said dust suppressant formulation additionally comprises lignosulfonate, for example sodium lignosulfonate and / or calcium lignosulfonate and / or ammonium lignosulfonate, and corn syrup solids.

[0038] More preferably, the animal litter according to the present invention comprises at least one additional agent chosen amongst Bronopol or Lutensol AT25,

[0039] While the dust suppressant formulation (additive) for animal and cat litter will be applied at a liquid state to the mineral-based granule and to the agglomerating powder, where the liquid phase comprises said additive, more particular said at least one tackifying agent in water, the present invention provide a liquid portion having a tackiness sufficient to bind dust particles together in a first stage and the natural polymers produced by the biofilm forming bacterial strains in a second stage, to further bind said dust particles together.

[0040] According to the present invention, said mineral-based granules contain granules of a material chosen amongst sepiolites, attapulgites, diatomites, margins, zeolites, calcites, dolomites, slates, pumice, gypsum, bentonites, diatomaceous earth, in particular sodium bentonite, tubermorites, building residues, and mixtures thereof.

[0041] More preferably, according to the present invention, said agglomerating powder is a sepiolite component selected from micronized sepiolite, rheological grade sepiolite, or mixtures thereof, which acts as a batting or binding agent.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, said mineral-based granules have a particle size distribution from 0.20 to 5 mm, preferably from 0.22 to 4 mm, more preferably from 0.25 fo 3.5 mm, in parficular from 0.5 fo 3.5 mm.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment of the animal litter according to the present invention the mineral-based granules further contain a polymer. The polymer can be a bio-based polymer. The polymer can be also a functional polymer such as an odour suppressant polymer or an additional additive to confer some special properties to the animal litter or yet a polymer to protect the bacterial strains and promote their growth, for example in keeping the biofilm forming bacterial strain in a status where they are the most biofilm forming status.

[0044] Indeed, Maxime Arde et al. reported in the thesis “Dynamique de formation des biofilms de Bacillus subtilis d I’interface eau-air: experiences et modelisation” that the sedentary phenotype is the one where the bacterial strains are producing the biofilm. Therefore, giving to the bacterial strains the most suitable environment for reaching the “sedentary phenotype” (by contrast to the “nomad phenotype”) will accelerate the biofilm production phase of the bacterial strains.

[0045] In a particular embodiment, the animal litter according to the present invention further comprises a vegetal component, in mixture with the mineral-based granules, such as a vegetal component selected from sawdust, straw, wood chips, paper pulp, paper residues, corn fibers, and mixtures thereof.

[0046] More preferably, in a specific embodiment, the animal litter according to the present invention comprises:

[0047] - from 85 to 99.8 wt% mineral-based granules based on the total weight of the animal litter, preferably from 90 to 99.8 wt%,

[0048] - from 0.2 to 15 wt% of said dust suppressant formulation, preferably from 0.2 to 10 wt%, comprising : o from 0.001 to 1 wt% of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains, preferably from 0.003 to 0.5 wt%, o from 0.01 to 20 wt% of said latex binder, preferably from 0.1 to 20 wt%, o from 1 to 80 wt% of said at least one additive, o water up to 100 wt%.

[0049] For example, said animal litter according to the present invention comprises :

[0050] - mineral-based granules in an amount of 85 wt%, 86 wt%, 87 wt%, 88 wt%, 89 wt%, 90 wt%, 91 wt%, 92 wt%, 93 wt%, 94 wt%, 95 wt%, 95.5 wt%, 96 wt%, 96.5 wt%, 97 wt%, 97.5 wt%, 98 wt%, 98.5 wt%, 99 wt%, 99.5 wt%, 99.8 wt%, based on the total weight of the animal litter,

[0051] - said dust suppressant formulation in an amount of 0.2 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 1 .0 wt%, 1 .5 wt%, 2.0 wt%, 2.5 wt%, 3.0 wt%, 3.5 wt%, 4.0 wt%, 4.5 wt%, 5.0 wt%, 6.0 wt%, 7.0 wt%, 8.0 wt%, 9.0 wt%, 10 wt%, 1 1 wt%, 12 wt%, 13 wt%, 14 wt%, 15 wt%, based on the total weight of the animal litter, and said dust suppressant formulation comprising : o said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains in an amount of 0.001 wt%, 0.002 wt%, 0.003 wt%, 0.004 wt%, 0.005 wt%, 0.006 wt%, 0.007 wt%, 0.008 wt%, 0.009 wt%, 0.010 wt%, 0.012 wt%, 0.014 wt%, 0.015 wt%, 0.016 wt%, 0.018 wt%, 0.020 wt%, 0.025 wt%, 0.030 wt%, 0.035 wt%, 0.040 wt%, 0.045 wt%, 0.050 wt%, 0.055 wt%, 0.060 wt%, 0.065 wt%, 0.070 wt%, 0.075 wt%, 0.080 wt%, 0.085 wt%, 0.090 wt%, 0.095 wt%, 0.1 wt%, 0.15 wt%, 0.2 wt%, 0.25 wt%, 0.30 wt%, 0.35 wt%, 0.40 wt%, 0.45 wt%, 0.50 wt% based on the total weight of said dust suppressant formulation, o said latex binder in an amount of 0.01 wt%, 0.02 wt%, 0.03 wt%, 0.04 wt%, 0.05 wt%, 0.06 wt%, 0.07 wt%, 0.08 wt%, 0.09 wt%, 0.1 wt%, 0.2 wt%, 0.3 wt%, 0.4 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 0.6 wt%, 0.7 wt%, 0.8 wt%, 0.9 wt%, 1 .0 wt%, 1 .5 wt%, 2.0 wt%, 2.5 wt%, 3.0 wt%, 3.5 wt%, 4.0 wt%, 4.5 wt%, 5.0 wt%, 5.5 wt%, 6.0 wt%, 6.5 wt%, 7.0 wt%, 7.5 wt%, 8.0 wt%, 8.5 wt%, 9.0 wt%, 9.5 wt%, 10.0 wt%, 10.5 wt%, 1 1 wt%, 1 1 .5 wt%, 12 wt%, 12.5 wt%, 13 wt%, 13.5 wt%, 14 wt%, 14.5 wt%, 15 wt%, 15.5 wt%, 16 wt%, 16.5 wt%, 17 wt%, 17.5 wt%, 18 wt%, 18.5 wt%, 19 wt%, 19.5 wt%, 20 wt% based on the total weight of said dust suppressant formulation, o at least one additive in an amount of 1 wt%, 2 wt%, 3 wt%, 4 wt%, 5 wt%, 6 wt%, 7 wt%, 8 wt%, 9 wt%, 10 wt%, 1 1 wt%, 12 wt%, 13 wt%, 14 wt%, 15 wt%, 16 wt%, 17 wt%, 18 wt%, 19 wt%, 20 wt%, 21 wt%, 22 wt%, 23 wt%, 24 wt%, 25 wt%, 26 wt%, 27 wt%, 28 wt%, 29 wt%, 30 wt%, 31 wt%, 32 wt%, 33 wt%, 34 wt%, 35 wt%, 36 wt%, 37 wt%, 38 wt%, 39 wt%, 40 wt%, 41 wt%, 42 wt%, 43 wt%, 44 wt%, 45 wt%, 46 wt%, 47 wt%, 48 wt%, 49 wt%, 50 wt%, 51 wt%, 52 wt%, 53 wt%, 54 wt%, 55 wt%, 56 wt%, 57 wt%, 58 wt%, 59 wt%, 60 wt%, 61 wt%, 62 wt%, 63 wt%, 64 wt%, 65 wt%, 66 wt%, 67 wt%, 68 wt%, 69 wt%, 70 wt%, 71 wt%, 72 wt%, 73 wt%, 74 wt%, 75 wt%, 76 wt%, 77 wt%, 78 wt%, 79 wt%, 80 wt% based on the total weight of said dust suppressant formulation, o water up to 100 wt% based on the total weight of said dust suppressant formulation.

[0052] In some applications, animal litters have further a special additive to provide binding capacity to mineral-based granules, i.e. clays and porous materials in granular form, for example to effectively absorb liquid animal waste and form mass stable agglomerates thereby allowing removal of the waste from clean particles. Indeed, in some applications, while the agglomeration properties of animal litters are very good, the absorption properties are not that high. In other cases, the absorption properties are very good, but the binding properties to form agglomerates are not that good. In some cases, the wetted particles with good absorption properties may not yet have acquired the right mechanical strength when the animal deposits their excrements on the litter. This means that, after deposition of excreta, the animal is able to step in wetted particles not yet enough resistant and spread parts of agglomerates in the remainder of the littermate, thereby making the cleaning complex and resulting in the contamination of more particles than necessary.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the animal litter according to the present invention can comprise a binder additive preferably under the form of a granular material to be mixed with mineral-based granules comprising

[0054] (i) an aqueous-dispersible polysaccharide,

[0055] (ii) A nonaqueous polyhydroxy liquid carrier that does not deactivate the polysaccharide;

[0056] (iii) - A sepiolite component selected from micronized sepiolite, rheological grade sepiolite, or mixtures thereof, which acts as a batting or binding agent.

[0057] The aqueous-dispersible polysaccharide is selected from natural or modified gums, celluloses, starches, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the polysaccharide is guar gum.

[0058] The polyhydroxy liquid carrier is selected from polyalcohols, polyalcohol derivatives and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the liquid carrier is glycerol or glycerin. Preferably, the sepiolite component of the binder additive is selected from finely ground sepiolite, micronized sepiolite, rheological grade sepiolite or mixtures thereof as batting agent, since natural sepiolite presents acicular particles that form bundles or aggregates that are held together thanks to the existence of inter-particle forces, so that the aggregates do not spontaneously break apart when the natural sepiolite is dispersed in water or other liquids.

[0059] In particular, the finely ground sepiolite, which can be employed in the additive of the present invention, preferably consists essentially of particles with a size of less than 40 m.

[0060] In another particular embodiment, the micronized sepiolite which can be employed in the additive of the present invention, preferably comprises 81 % by weight, more preferably 97% by weight, of particles with a size of less than 5 pm.

[0061] In another particular embodiment, rheological grade sepiolite on the other hand is obtained by special micronization processes that deagglomerates the beams into their individual particles, rheological grade sepiolite is obtained that is easily dispersed in water and other polar liquids (see for example EP-A-0170299). Rheological grade sepiolite is also being manufactured and sold by TOLSA, S.A., Madrid under the name PANGEL.

[0062] The additive according to the invention is effective in both clay minerals and absorbent porous substrates which themselves do not exhibit substantially binding capacity when contacted with water or liquids, so that upon absorption of water and liquids, they do not swell but retain liquids in their structure without appreciable variations in their mechanical properties and in the physical appearance of their constituent particles, such as in relation to bentonite with respect to which the addition of the additive leads to the formation of clumps of higher strength than conventional bentonite.

[0063] In one embodiment, the binder additive, preferably under the form of a granular material, to be mixed with mineral-based granules, contains 20 to 45%, preferably 30 to 45% by weight of the aqueous- dispersible polysaccharide, 20 to 45%, preferably 30 to 45% by weight of the non-aqueous polyhydroxylated liquid carrier that does not deactivate the polysaccharide; and 10 to 25%, preferably 15 to 25 % by weight of a sepiolite component selected from finely ground sepiolite, micronized sepiolite, rheological grade sepiolite, or mixtures thereof.

[0064] The animal litter according to the present invention is especially suitable as a cat litter, but its application in litters for other small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits etc., is also entirely satisfactory.

[0065] Other embodiments of the animal litter according to the present invention are mentioned in the appended claims.

[0066] Other characteristics, details and advantages according to the present invention will be derived from the following description, without being limited thereto and by making reference to drawings and examples.

[0067] The present invention concerns a method of manufacturing an animal litter comprising the steps of :

[0068] - providing mineral-based granules,

[0069] - providing a dust suppressant formulation comprising a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains,

[0070] - applying said dust suppressant formulation to said mineral-based granules to form an animal litter according to the present invention. Advantageously, said step of application of said dust suppressant formulation to said mineral-based granules of the method according to the present invention is realized using a spraying nozzle.

[0071] In a more advantageously embodiment of the method of the present invention, said dust suppressant formulation is coated on said mineral-based granules.

[0072] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, said method comprises an additional step of providing agglomerating powder and blending said agglomerating powder with said mineral-based granules before said step of applying said dust suppressant formulation, or comprises an additional step of providing agglomerating powder and blending said agglomerating powder with said mineral-based granules after said step of applying said dust suppressant formulation.

[0073] Other embodiments of the method according to the present invention are mentioned in the appended claims and the subsequent description of an embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be derived from the non-limitative following description, and by making reference to the drawings and the examples.

[0075] Examples.-

[0076] Various formulations of animal litter were made to evaluate the dust control effect by a Drop test.

[0077] Dust emissions from each sample were evaluated by dropping 20-25 grams of material in a closed chamber while an attached dust monitor logged airborne particulate over time. The tests were performed 4-7 days after treatment.

[0078] The Drop test methodology consists of: 1 . Measure out 20-25 grams of each treated sample into clean labelled dishes.

[0079] 2. Process each sample one at a time using the following drop test procedure: a. Connect the DustTrak DRX Aerosol Monitor 8533 to the drop cylinder using the flexible hose. b. Set the DustTrak RunMode to 2-minute duration, with

[0080] 1 second sampling frequency. c. Start the DustTrak logging. d. Wait 30 seconds to allow readings to settle to a consistent background level. e. Lift the top cover of the cylinder, quickly drop the sample material into the cylinder and replace the top cover. f. Allow the DustTrack to run for the full 2-minute duration. g. Disconnect the DustTrack, clean the drop cylinder using cloths and anti-static sheets. h. Discard the dropped sample material and clean the bottom plate. i. Replace equipment and proceed to the next sample.

[0081] 3. Import the data into Excel, calculate the maximum dust level recorded for each sample and produce summary statistics.

[0082] Example 1 .- Samples preparation

[0083] Untreated sepiolite was divided into size fractions using sieves to determine the material’s size distribution. It was then re-combined into equal samples containing the same particle size distribution. This ensured that each formulation was applied to a sample of sepiolite with the same percentages of fine, medium, and coarse fractions.

[0084] Example 2.- Dust suppression formulation 1

[0085] A dust suppression formulation 1 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 95w% water, 4.88w% binder and 0.1 lw% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0086] The dust suppression formulation 1 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0087] Dust suppression formulation 1 is then applied to two untreated sepiolite samples from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with two different conditions as described below.

[0088] - Condition 1 : 90% of sepiolite from example 1 and 10% of dust suppression formulation 1 (% w / w), with an amount of 8.8 x 105cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0089] - Condition 2: 99.50% of sepiolite from example 1 and 0.50% of dust suppression formulation 1 (% w / w), with an amount of 4.4 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0090] The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 1 according to the present invention.

[0091] The treated animal litters were submitted to the aforementioned drop test 4-7 days after production. The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 1 were analysed and the results are presented below:

[0092] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 2.51 mg / m3corresponding to -93% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0093] - Condition 2: The measured dust level is 16.80 mg / m3corresponding to -43% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0094] Example 3.- Dust suppression formulation 2

[0095] A dust suppression formulation 2 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 80.04% water, 19.52% binder and 0.44% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0096] The dust suppression formulation 2 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0097] Dust suppression formulation 2 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the condition described below.

[0098] - Condition 1 : 97.5% of sepiolite from example 1 and 2.5% of dust suppression formulation 2 (% w / w), with an amount of 8.8 x 105cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0099] The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 2 according to the present invention. The animal litter 2 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after production.

[0100] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 2 were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0101] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 19.1 mg / m3corresponding to -74% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0102] Example 4.- Dust suppression formulation 3

[0103] A dust suppression formulation 3 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 59.4% water, 39.6% glycerin, 0.98% binder and 0.02% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0104] The dust suppression formulation 3 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0105] Dust suppression formulation 3 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following condition:

[0106] - Condition 1 : 90% of sepiolite from example 1 and 10% of dust suppression formulation 3 (% w / w), with an amount of 1.6 x 105cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0107] The samples were left out overnight to dry and then packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 3 according to the present invention. The animal litter 3 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after treatment .

[0108] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 3 were tested, analysed and the result is presented below:

[0109] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 3.06 mg / m3corresponding to -91% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0110] Example 5.- Dust suppression formulation 4

[0111] A dust suppression formulation 4 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 20.07% water, 79% glycerin, 0.91 % binder and 0.02% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0112] The dust suppression formulation 4 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0113] Dust suppression formulation 4 is then applied to two untreated sepiolite samples from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following conditions:

[0114] - Condition 1 : 99% of sepiolite from example 1 and 1 % of dust suppression formulation 4 (% w / w), with an amount of 1.6 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0115] - Condition 2: 99.50% of sepiolite from example 1 and 0.50% of dust suppression formulation 4 (% w / w), with an amount of 8.0 x 103cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter. The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 4 according to the present invention.

[0116] The animal litter 4 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 4 days after production.

[0117] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 4 under the 2 conditions were analysed and the results are presented below:

[0118] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 12.7 mg / m3corresponding to -57% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0119] - Condition 2: The measured dust level is 10.50 mg / m3corresponding to -65% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0120] Example 6.- Dust suppression formulation 5

[0121] A dust suppression formulation 5 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 95% water, 0.22% binder, 4.76% of acacia gum and 0.01% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0122] The dust suppression formulation 5 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0123] Dust suppression formulation 5 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following condition:

[0124] Condition 1 : 90% of sepiolite from example 1 and 10% of dust suppression formulation 3 (% w / w), with an amount of 4.0 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacferial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0125] The samples were left out overnight to dry and then packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 5 according to the present invention.

[0126] The animal litter 5 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after production .

[0127] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 5 were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0128] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 2.45 mg / m3corresponding to -96% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0129] Example 7.- Dust suppression formulation 6

[0130] A dust suppression formulation 6 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 80.06% water, 0.88% binder, 19.04% of acacia gum and 0.02% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0131] The dust suppression formulation 6 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0132] Dust suppression formulation 6 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following condition:

[0133] - Condition 1 : 97.50% of sepiolite from example 1 and 2.50% of dust suppression formulation 6 (% w / w), with an amount of 4.0 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacferial strains per gram of animal litter.

[0134] The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 6 according to the present invention.

[0135] The animal litter 6 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after production.

[0136] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 6 were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0137] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 7.83 mg / m3corresponding to -89% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0138] Example 8.- Dust suppression formulation 7

[0139] A dust suppression formulation 7 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 87.1 % water, 1 1 .9% glycerin, 0.14% binder, 0.86% xanthan gum and 0.003% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0140] The dust suppression formulation 7 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0141] Dust suppression formulation 7 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following condition:

[0142] - Condition 1 : 90% of sepiolite from example 1 and 10% of dust suppression formulation 7 (% w / w), with an amount of 2.4 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter. 16

[0143] The samples were left out overnight to dry and then packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 7 according to the present invention.

[0144] The animal litter 7 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after production.

[0145] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 7 were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0146] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 2.04 mg / m3corresponding to -96% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0147] Example 9.- Dust suppression formulation 8

[0148] A dust suppression formulation 8 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 86.21 % water, 1 1.78% glycerin, 0.28% binder, 1.72% xanthan gum and 0.01% of a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains. This series consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens.

[0149] The dust suppression formulation 8 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0150] Dust suppression formulation 8 is then applied to one untreated sepiolite sample from example 1 using a spraying nozzle to achieve an even distribution with the following condition:

[0151] - Condition 1 : 97.50% of sepiolite from example 1 and 2.50% of dust suppression formulation 8 (% w / w), with an amount of 1 .2 x 104cfu of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains per gram of animal litter. The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 8 according to the present invention.

[0152] The animal litter 8 was submitted to the aforementioned drop test 7 days after production.

[0153] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 8 were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0154] - Condition 1 : The measured dust level is 10.9 mg / m3corresponding to -72% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated sepiolite sample.

[0155] Example 10.- Dust suppressant formulations 9 & 10

[0156] A dust suppression formulation 9 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 20.07% water, 79.00% glycerin, 0.93% of blend of biofilm forming bacterial strains with a biolatex binder.

[0157] Said 0.93% of blend of biofilm forming bacterial strains with biolatex binder comprises 2.70% of said biofilm forming bacterial strains and 97.3% of said biolatex binder.

[0158] This series of biofilm forming bacterial strains consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens, in an amount of at least 8.0 x 109cfu / g of said blend.

[0159] The dust suppression formulation 9 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then blending for at least 30 minutes until the solutions reached a homogenous condition.

[0160] A dust suppression formulation 10 was prepared by adding the following weight% with respect to the total weight of the formulation: 43.63% of a sodium lignosulfonate, 43.63% of a corn syrup solids and 12.76% of blend of biofilm forming bacterial strains with a biolatex binder. Said 12.76% of blend of biofilm forming bacferial strains with biolatex binder comprises 2.70% of said biofilm forming bacterial strains and 97.3% of said biolatex binder.

[0161] This series of biofilm forming bacterial strains consists of a mixture of B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, B. megaterium and B. amyloliquefaciens, in an amount of at least 8.0 x 109cfu / g of said blend.

[0162] The dust suppression formulation 10 is produced by mixing the various ingredients together and then mixing them with water at a watenformu lotion ratio of 3:1 by weight. The mixture is blended for at least 30 minutes until the solution reaches a homogenous condition.

[0163] The two formulas 9 & 10 were applied using a “pour-and- spray” method. A 150 gram of animal litter (Fresh 4 Life® cat litter and Western Family® cat litter) was slowly poured through a funnel while a misting spray-bottle created a “cloud” of said dust suppressant formulations 9 and 10 in the air between the funnel and the plate. Treated litter fell through the mist into the plate and was then mixed well. This process was repeated twice for each sample to ensure adequate coverage. Untreated “control” samples were created by dropping the litter through the funnel without treatment.

[0164] By measuring the weight of each sample before and after application, the applicant were able to calculate the rate of application.

[0165] Dust suppressant formulation 9 was applied at an application rate of 1 .9% of Fresh 4 Life® cat litter to form animal litter 9A according to the invention.

[0166] Dust suppressant formulation 9 was applied at an application rate of 5.1 % of Western Family® cat litter to form animal litter 9B according to the invention. Dust suppressant formulation 10 was applied at an application rate of 4.6% of Fresh 4 Life® cat litter to form animal litter 10A according to the invention.

[0167] Dust suppressant formulation 10 were applied at an application rate of 1 .6% of Western Family® cat litter to form animal litter 1 OB according to the invention.

[0168] The samples were packaged in sealed bags to form animal litter 9A, 9B, 10A and 1 OB according to the present invention.

[0169] The animal litter 9A and 10A were submitted to the aforementioned drop test on the same day as the treatment was applied.

[0170] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 9A, 10A and Untreated Fresh 4 Life® cat litter were analysed and the result is presented below:

[0171] - Untreated Fresh 4 Life® cat litter : The measured dust level is 58 mg / m3based in average of the two samples.

[0172] - Animal litter 9A : The measured dust level is 30.5 mg / m3based in average of the two samples corresponding to -47% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated Fresh 4 Life® cat litter.

[0173] - Animal litter 10A : The measured dust level is 15 mg / m3based in average of the two samples corresponding to -74% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated Fresh 4 Life® cat litter.

[0174] The animal litter 9B and 10B were submitted to the aforementioned drop test on the same day as the treatment was applied.

[0175] The maximum dust emissions recorded for the animal litter 9B, 10B and Untreated Bentonite 10 mesh® Western Family cat litter were analysed and the result is presented below: - Untreated Western® Family cat litter: The measured dust level is 67 mg / m3based in average of the two samples.

[0176] - Animal litter 9B : The measured dust level is 7.3 mg / m3based in average of the two samples corresponding to -89% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated Bentonite 10 mesh® Western Family cat litter.

[0177] - Animal litter 10B : The measured dust level is 14 mg / m3based in average of the two samples corresponding to -79% in percentage of reduction in comparison to untreated Bentonite 10 mesh® Western Family cat litter.

[0178] A larger 250-gram sample of Fresh 4 Life® cat litter and a larger 250- gram sample of Animal litter 10A according to the present invention (Dust suppressant formulation 10 were applied at an application rate of 4.6% of Fresh 4 Life® cat litter) were used for a quick visual test performed on the same day as the treatment was applied.

[0179] The larger 250-gram samples were used for a quick visual test: samples of treated (Animal litter 10A) and untreated material (Fresh 4 Life® cat litter) were poured out in front of a dark background while capturing the dust emissions with video. Although some dust was still slightly visible in the treated sample, it was drastically reduced compared to the untreated material. A selection of screenshots from each test are presented in Figure 1.

[0180] Figure 1 shows screenshots from video captured while pouring untreated Fresh 4 Life® cat litter (Top) and Animal litter 10A (Bottom - Dust suppressant formulation 10 were applied at an application rate of 4.6% of Fresh 4 Life® cat litter). Test was performed approximatively 3 hours after treatment. It is not to be said that the present invention is limited to the specific aforementioned embodiments; modifications can be performed without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Animal litter comprising absorbing mineral-based granules and a dust suppressant formulation comprising a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains, preferably said animal litter comprising agglomerating powder, wherein said animal litter having a dust generation lower than or equal to 50 mg / m3evaluated by drop test of 20- 25 grams of said animal litter.

2. Animal litter according to claim 1 , wherein said animal litter having a dust generation evaluated by drop test of 20-25 grams lower than or equal to 45 mg / m3, preferably lower than or equal to 40 mg / m3, more preferably lower than or equal to 35 mg / m3, even more preferably lower than or equal to 30 mg / m3, in particular lower than or equal to 25 mg / m3, even more particularly lower than or equal to 20 mg / m3, advantageously lower than or equal to 15 mg / m3, more advantageously lower than or equal to 10 mg / m3.

3. Animal litter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one strain of the said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said dust suppressant formulation is chosen amongst the Bacillus genus.

4. Animal litter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said dust suppressant formulation is a cocktail of more than one strain of the Bacillus genus, for example a cocktail of more than one strain chosen amongst the species B. subtilis, B. pumilis, B. licheniformis, B. velezensis, B. megaterium, B. amyloliquefaciens.

5. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains of said dust suppressant formulation is a cocktail of more than 3 strains of the Bacillus genus, preferably more than 4 strains of the Bacillus genus, more preferably more than 5 strains of the Bacillus genus.

6. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said dust suppressant formulation comprising said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is coated on said mineral-based granules.

7. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is present in said dust suppressant formulation at the time of production at an amount of at least 1.0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 103cfu / g of animal litter, preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 104cfu / g of animal litter, in particular at an amount of at least 5.0 x 104cfu / g of animal litter, preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, in particular at an amount of at least 5.0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, more particular at an amount of at least 8.0 x 105cfu / g of animal litter, more preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 106cfu / g of animal litter, and even more preferably at an amount of at least 1 .0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 107cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 108cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, advantageously at an amount of at least 5.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, more advantageously at an amount of at least 8.0 x 109cfu / g of animal litter, even more at an amount of at least 1.0 x 1010cfu / g of animal litter.

8. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein in said dust suppressant formulation said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains is adsorbed on a latex binder, preferably on a biobased latex binder having surfactant properties, more preferably on a biobasedstarch latex binder, more preferably on a biobased modified starch latex binder.

9. Animal litter according to claim 8, wherein said latex binder is a powder.

10. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said dust suppressant formulation comprising at least one additive, for example at least one tackifying agent, chosen amongst glycerol, glycerine, crude glycerine, Arabic gum, xanthan gum, acacia gum, agar gum, lignosulfonate, sodium lignosulfonate, calcium lignosulfonate, ammonium lignosulfonate, molasses, corn syrup, corn syrup solids, and their mixture.1 1 . Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said mineral-based granules contain granules of a material chosen amongst sepiolites, attapulgites, diatomites, margins, zeolites, calcites, dolomites, slates, pumice, gypsum, bentonites, diatomaceous earth, in particular sodium bentonite, tubermorites, building residues, and mixtures thereof.

12. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said mineral-based granules has a particle size distribution from 0.20 to 5 mm, preferably from 0.22 to 4 mm, more preferably from 0.25 to 3.5 mm, in particular from 0.5 to 3.5 mm.

13. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mineral-based granules further contain a polymer.

14. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a vegetal component, in mixture with the mineralbased granules, such as a vegetal component selected from sawdust, straw, wood chips, paper pulp, paper residues, corn fibers, and mixtures thereof.

15. Animal litter according to any of the preceding claims, comprising:- from 85 to 99.8 wt% mineral-based granules based on the total weight of the animal litter, preferably from 90 to 99.8 wt%,- from 0.2 to 15 wt% of said dust suppressant formulation, preferably from 0.2 to 10 wt%, comprising : o from 0.001 to 1 wt% of said series of biofilm forming bacterial strains, preferably from 0.003 to 0.5 wt%, o from 0.01 to 20 wt% of said latex binder, preferably from 0.1 to 20 wt%, o from 1 to 80 wt% of said at least one additive, o water up to 100 wt%.

16. Method of manufacturing an animal litter comprising the steps of :- providing mineral-based granules,- providing a dust suppressant formulation comprising a series of biofilm forming bacterial strains,- applying said dust suppressant formulation to said mineral-based granules to form an animal litter according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. Method according to claim 16, wherein said step of application of said dust suppressant formulation to said mineral-based granules is realized using a spraying nozzle.

18. Method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein said dust suppressant formulation is coated on said mineral-based granules.

19. Method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, comprising an additional step of providing agglomerating powder and blending said agglomerating powder with said mineral-based granules before said step of applying said dust suppressant formulation, or comprising an additional step of providing agglomerating powder and blending said agglomerating powder with said mineral-based granules after said step of applying said dust suppressant formulation.

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