Ecological solvent composition

Abstract

The current invention relates to an ecologically beneficial solvent composition, said solvent composition comprising a compound of formula (A), wherein X is chosen from O or CH2; Y1 and Y2 are independently of one another chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, or Y1 and Y2 together are a keto-group; and R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl. The invention further relates to the use of the solvent composition in a wide range of applications, particularly in cleaning and detergency, as process solvent for separation and reaction medium and as carrier.

Description

[0001] ECOLOGICAL SOLVENT COMPOSITION

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a solvent composition comprising a solvent of the formula as described herein below. In a second aspect, the invention relates to beneficial uses of such a solvent composition and / or a solvent of the formula.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Many commercially available solvents are used in a wide range of applications, such as cleaning and detergency, process chemistry for purification, reaction in solvent, as carrier for a wide range of compounds such as paints, coatings, polymers, dyes, fragrances, APIs and so forth.

[0006] Cleaners incorporate environmentally hazardous and toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It has been found that VOCs are linked to ozone formation and contributed significantly other health hazards. In the printing industry, for example many cleaning solutions contain high VOC solvents include toluene, xylene, methyl ethyl ketone, glycol ethers, tetrachloroethylene, methyl isobutyl ketone, methanol, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, dichloromethane and ethylene glycol. Many ink cleaning compositions contain aromatic groups that are in many cases toxic and are not environmentally friendly in that they do not biodegrade well. Often these solvents will be low vapor pressure solvents with low flashpoints that are also extremely flammable. Such compositions are undesirable in light of the increased awareness for human exposure to toxic materials and the demand for environmentally friendly, non-toxic solvents. However, the drawbacks in utilizing these solvents have not diminished their use.

[0007] As yet another example, many commercially available graffiti cleaners contain high VOC components. Graffiti includes spray paint, marker and the like. Permanent markers are used on many substrates such as paper, writing boards, plastic panels, etc. It is, however, very difficult to completely remove permanent marker from many of these substrates, in particular plastic substrates. Generally, there is currently no satisfactory environmentally friendly cleaner for removing permanent marking pen from these substrate surfaces. Most of the commercially available "eco-friendly" cleaners are generally formulated for cleaning house-hold stains such as pen, crayons, pencils, lipsticks, washable marker and the like, but are not strong enough for hard-to-clean stains such as permanent marker and the like. In addition, even if such cleaners can clean most of the permanent ink from the substrate, in most cases there remains some visible markings on the substrates. On the other hand, other cleaners contain hazardous or aggressive solvents such as NMP (N-methyl pyrrolidinone). These kinds of cleaners may pose health hazards, fire hazards and have strong odors. It is also possible that aggressive formulation may permanently damage the applied-upon substrates.

[0008] The availability of environmentally friendly solvents, however, is limited because such alternatives generally do not provide satisfactory performance or are cost prohibitive. A better ecotox profile often leads to a compromise in performance. Because many solvents are flammable and toxic to health, there is a need to develop provide improved solvent solutions.

[0009] In recent years, there has been a growing global emphasis on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of industrial processes and products. This has led to an increased desire for the development and utilization of bio-based solvents, which are derived from renewable resources and offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based solvents. Some examples of biobased solvents currently used in industry include those derived from biomass, particularly ethanol, butanol, glycerol and fatty acids, as well as their esters. These bio-based solvents pave the way for more sustainable use of solvents, and thus more eco-friendly products and processes across a wide range of sectors. However, the aforementioned solvents have a range of issues including limited solvency compared to petroleum-based counterparts, high volatility resulting in high evaporation rates and difficulties maintaining stable formulations, high water content as well as being hygroscopic, limited compatibility with a wide range of materials and formulations.

[0010] The present invention aims to resolve at least some of the problems and disadvantages mentioned above.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention and embodiments thereof serve to provide a solution to one or more of above-mentioned disadvantages. To this end, the present invention relates to a solvent composition according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the composition are shown in any of the claims 2 to 9.

[0013] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to the use of the solvent composition in particular applications as shown in any of the claims 10-15.

[0014] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a compound according to formula (A), as defined in claim 1, preferably for use as solvent or co-solvent.

[0015] It is a prime objective of the present invention to overcome abovementioned disadvantages of the prior art by providing a solvent composition meets at least one of the following criteria:

[0016] Fully or partially bio-based,

[0017] - good solvency for a wide range of compounds, particularly organic compounds including polymers and resins,

[0018] - good co-solvent or solubilizer properties, in particular improving the solubility and stability of formulations. Particularly interesting is the combination of these solvents with sustainable primary solvents, preferred primary solvents include water, ethanol, butanol and mixtures thereof, low VOC emissions, high flash point and boiling point, biodegradable, and low toxicity profile.

[0019] Present disclosure provides an alternative for a wide range of known solvents. It provides better solvency for a wide range of applications compared to water, bioethanol, bio-butanol, glycerol and their esters.

[0020] It provides a more sustainable, safer and often less volatile alternative to many petrochemical derived solvents, including naphta and I or aromatic based petroleum fractions such as "Solvesso", dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), tetra hydrofuran (THF), N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), hexane, cyclohexane, toluene, xylene, methylene chloride (DCM), chloroform, acetonitrile, benzene. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

[0022] As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

[0023] "A", "an", and "the" as used herein refers to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, "a compartment" refers to one or more than one compartment.

[0024] "About" as used herein referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of + / - 20% or less, preferably + / -10% or less, more preferably + / -5% or less, even more preferably + / -1% or less, and still more preferably + / -0.1% or less of and from the specified value, in so far such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. However, it is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" refers is itself also specifically disclosed.

[0025] "Comprise", "comprising", and "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "include", "including", "includes" or "contain", "containing", "contains" and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

[0027] The expression "% by weight", "weight percent", "%wt" or "wt%", here and throughout the description unless otherwise defined, refers to the relative weight of the respective component based on the overall weight of the formulation.

[0028] Whereas the terms "one or more" or "at least one", such as one or more or at least one member(s) of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g., any >3, >4, >5, >6 or >7 etc. of said members, and up to all said members.

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, definitions for the terms used in the description are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention. The terms or definitions used herein are provided solely to aid in the understanding of the invention.

[0030] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0031] The expressions "2-(butoxymetyl) THFA", "2-(butoxymetyl)tetrahydrofuraan", "butyl THFA", "n-butyl THFA" and "N-but", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with linear formula C9H18O2 and CAS number 19114-88-6.

[0032] The expressions "tertbutyl THFA", "terbutyl THFA", "2-(tert- Butoxymethyl)tetra hydrofuran", "t-butyl THFA" and "T-but", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with linear formula C9H18O2 and CAS number 61590-76-9.

[0033] The expressions "n-butyl glycasol", "butyl glycasol", and "1,3-Dioxolane, 4- (butoxymethyl)-2,2-dimethyl-", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with CAS number 99851-17-9.

[0034] The expressions "terbutyl glycasol", "tertbutyl glycasol", "t-butyl glycasol" and "1,3- Dioxolane,4-[(l,l-dimethylethoxy)methyl]-2,2-dimethyl-", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with CAS number 122977-52-0.

[0035] The expressions "n-butyl glycamal", "butyl glycamal" and "1,3-Dioxolane, 4- (butoxymethyl)-", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with CAS number 19921-27-8.

[0036] The expressions "terbutyl glycamal", "tertbutyl glycamal", "t-butyl glycamal" and "1,3-Dioxolane, 4-[(l,l-dimethylethoxy)methyl]-", as used in this text, are synonyms and refer to the chemical compound with CAS number 2411580-72-6.

[0037] The expression "bio-based", as used in the text, refers to materials that are made from renewable raw materials such as but not limited to starch, sugar, cellulose, hemicellulose, lactic acid, proteins or via micro-organisms.

[0038] The expression "biodegradable", as used in the text, refers to the ability of materials to get disintegrated (decomposed) by the action of micro-organisms such as bacteria or fungi biological (with or without oxygen) while getting assimilated into the natural environment.

[0039] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a solvent composition comprising at least one compound of formula (A): wherein

[0040] X is chosen from O or CH2;

[0041] Y1 and Y2 are independently of one another chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, or Y1 and Y2 together are a keto-group; and R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl.

[0042] In an embodiment of the invention, the invention relates to a solvent composition comprising a solvent of the formula (A), wherein

[0043] X is chosen from O or CH2;

[0044] Y1 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, wherein i is a single bond or Y1 is O, wherein i is a double bond and Y2 is removed from the formula;

[0045] Y2 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl or Y2 is removed from the formula if Y1 is O; and

[0046] R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl.

[0047] In an embodiment of the invention, the invention relates to a solvent composition comprising a solvent of the formula (A), wherein

[0048] X is chosen from O or CH2;

[0049] Y1 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, or Y1 and Y2 together form a keto-group;

[0050] Y2 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, or Y1 and Y2 together form a keto-group; and

[0051] R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl.

[0052] In an embodiment of the invention, the invention relates to a solvent composition comprising a solvent of the formula (A), wherein

[0053] X is chosen from O or CH2;

[0054] Y1 is chosen from H, O or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, wherein i is a double bond if Y1 is O and i is a single bond if Y1 is H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, wherein a keto group is formed if Y1 is O; Y2 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl or Y2 is removed from the formula if Y1 is O; and

[0055] R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, X is CH2. In another embodiment of the invention, X is O.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, Y1 and Y2 are independently of one another chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl. In this embodiment of the invention, Y1 is chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl and i is a single bond. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, Y1 and Y2 are H.

[0058] In another embodiment of the invention Y1 and Y2 together are a keto-group. In this embodiment of the invention, Y1 is O and i is a double bond, wherein a keto group is formed.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C12 alkyl, preferably from a linear or branched C1-C8 alkyl, more preferably from a linear or branched C1-C4 alkyl. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is butyl, preferably R1 is n-butyl or tert- butyl, more preferably R1 is tert-butyl.

[0060] Specifically suitable solvents of the formula (A) are those of the formulae Al and A2, with the formula Al being most preferred. In another embodiment the solvent of formula A2 is preferred.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C4-C20 alkyl, preferably from a linear or branched C4-C10 alkyl, more preferably from a linear or branched C4-C7 alkyl. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is butyl, preferably R1 is n-butyl or tert-butyl, more preferably R1 is n-butyl. In an another more preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is pentyl, hexyl or heptyl, preferably R1 is n-pentyl, n-hexyl or n-heptyl. Specifically suitable solvents of the formula (A) are those of the formulae A3, A4 and A5, with the formula A5 being most preferred. In another embodiment the solvent of formula A3 or A4 is preferred.

[0062] The solvent of the formula (A) usually has a solubility in water at 20°C of at least 1.0% by weight, preferably of at least 5% by weight, especially preferably of at least 10 % by weight.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment, R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C4-C20 alkyl, preferably from a linear or branched C4-C10 alkyl, more preferably from a linear or branched C4-C7 alkyl. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is butyl, preferably R1 is n-butyl or tert-butyl, more preferably R1 is n-butyl. In an another more preferred embodiment of the invention, R1 is pentyl, hexyl or heptyl, preferably R1 is n-pentyl, n-hexyl or n-heptyl; and X is O; and Y1 and Y2 are independently chosen from a linear or branched Cl to C4 alkyl. More preferably, Y1 and Y2 are both a methyl group. The IUPAC names for the C4 to C12-alkyl ethers of 2,2-Dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane-4-methanol (glycasol), which are particularly preferred are shown below.

[0064] Alkyl Chain Length IUPAC Name

[0065] C4 (Butyl) 4-Butyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0066] C5 (Pentyl) 4-Pentyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0067] C6 (Hexyl) 4-Hexyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0068] C7 (Heptyl) 4-Heptyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0069] C8 (Octyl) 4-Octyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0070] C9 (Nonyl) 4-Nonyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0071] CIO (Decyl) 4-Decyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0072] Cll (Undecyl) 4-Undecyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0073] C12 (Dodecyl) 4-Dodecyloxymethyl-2,2-dimethyl-l,3-dioxolane

[0074] These are aprotic solvents with low reproductive toxicity, biodegradable, can be produced in an ecological manner and display high solvency power for the dissolution of a wide range of compounds for which presently aromatic solvents are typically used.

[0075] In an embodiment of the invention, said solvent composition comprises said compound of the formula (A) in an amount of 0.1 to 99% by weight, preferably 3 to 80% by weight, more preferably 10 to 70% by weight.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, said solvent composition comprises said compound of the formula (A) in an amount of at least 5 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 10 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 20 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 30 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 40 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 50 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 60 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 70 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 80 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 90 wt.%, more preferably in an amount of at least 95 wt.%. Compounds of formula A can advantageously be utilized as a primary or bulk solvents. They display excellent solvency power, low volatility, high boiling point which contributes to its high thermal stability and makes it suitable for processes at elevated temperatures.

[0077] In another preferred embodiment, said solvent composition comprises said compound of the formula (A) in an amount of 1 to 20 wt.%, more preferably 1 to 15 wt.%, more preferably 1 to 10 wt.%, more preferably 2 to 10 wt., more preferably 2 to 5 wt.%. In a further preferred embodiment, said solvent composition comprises: said compound of formula (A) in an amount of 1 to 20 wt.%; and

[0078] - a second solvent in an amount of at least 5 wt.%, more preferably at least 10 wt.%, more preferably at least 30 wt.%, more preferably at least 50 wt.%.

[0079] The second solvent is preferably chosen from the list of : water, ethanol, butanol, glycerol, lactate esters, preferably butyl lactate, ethyl lactate, methyl lactate and ethylhexyl lactacte, butyrate esters, preferably ethyl butyrate, butyl butyrate, methyl butyrate and ethylhexyl butyrate, carbonates preferably ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate and glycerin carbonates, dimethyl glutarate, dimethyl 2- pentanedionate and methyl 5-dimethylamino-5-oxo-pentanoate, dimethyldecanamide and dimethyloctanamide, n-butyl pyrrolidone and n- octylpyrrolidone and mixtures thereof. For these solvents, bio-based production processes are advancing beyond the lab scale, providing an ecological second solvent for the mixture. However, their properties such as solvency for many compounds often needs finetuning, for which the addition of a co-solvent according to formula (A) is highly beneficial. More preferably, said second solvent is chosen from the list of : water, ethanol and butanol, glycerol, lactate esters, preferably butyl lactate, ethyl lactate, methyl lactate and ethylhexyl lactacte, butyrate esters, preferably ethyl butyrate, butyl butyrate, methyl butyrate and ethylhexyl butyrate and mixtures thereof. More preferably, said second solvent is chosen from the list of water, ethanol and butanol or mixtures thereof. Most preferably, said second solvent is water. It was found that the compounds of formula (A), particularly n-but-THFA and t-but- THFA are well suited as co-solvent. Preferably in combination with a bio-based primary solvent such as water, bio-ethanol or bio-butanol. The addition of a compound of formula (A) as cosolvent enhances the solvency power of these solvents, particularly towards apolar compounds and polymers. Furthermore, the addition contributes to the stability of the solvent system, reducing phase separation, precipitation or stratification that occurs with certain (again particularly apolar and / or polymeric) solutes. Advantageously, this combination results in an ecological solvent mixture with a broad and versatile application range. Such mixtures are particularly interesting for cleaning and detergency applications.

[0080] More preferably, the solvent composition comprises a solvent of the formula (A) in form of a homogenous solution. Further components (e.g. further solvents, auxiliaries, further components) may be present in the same phase together with the solvent of the formula (A).

[0081] In an embodiment of the invention, the solvent composition comprises formulation auxiliaries or additives, the choice of the auxiliaries usually depending on the specific embodiment and / or the active substance. Examples for suitable auxiliaries are additional solvents, solid carriers or fillers, surfactants, dispersants, emulsifiers, wetters, adjuvants, solubilizers, protective colloids, adhesion agents, thickeners, repellents, compatibilizers, bactericides, anti-freezing agents, anti-foaming agents, colorants, tackifiers and binders. In a particular preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises additives selected from the list of : surfactants, chelating agents, builders and pH adjusters, thickeners, additional solvents, preservatives, tackifiers, antifreeze, particulates and fragrances. These additives are used to modify the properties of the solvent, often to improve or modify the solvency of the solvent for a specific purpose. Each of these additives are suitable for many purposes, but particularly desirable for cleaning and detergency purposes. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises surfactants. Suitable surfactants for use in the solvent composition include anionic surfactants such as alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, and alkylbenzene sulfonates; cationic surfactants such as quaternary ammonium compounds; and nonionic surfactants such as alkyl polyglucosides, alkyl ethoxylates, and alkylphenol ethoxylates. Addition of surfactants to the solvent mixture improve its wetting, emulsifying, and cleaning capabilities. The solvent composition according to the invention can comprise various amounts of surfactants. It can comprise from 0.1 to 40% by weight, preferably from 1 to 30 and in particular from 2 to 20% by weight total amount of surfactant, based on the total amount of the solvent composition.

[0082] Suitable anionic surfactants are alkali metal, earth alkali metal or ammonium salts of sulfonates, sulfates, phosphates, carboxylates, and mixtures thereof. Examples of sulfonates are alkylarylsulfonates, diphenylsulfonates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, lignine sulfonates, sulfonates of fatty acids and oils, sulfonates of ethoxylated alkylphenols, sulfonates of alkoxylated arylphenols, sulfonates of condensed naphthalenes, sulfonates of dodecyl- and tridecylbenzenes, sulfonates of naphthalenes and alkylnaphthalenes, sulfosuccinates or sulfosuccinamates. Examples of sulfates are sulfates of fatty acids and oils, of ethoxylated alkylphenols, of alcohols, of ethoxylated alcohols, or of fatty acid esters. Examples of phosphates are phosphate esters. Examples of carboxylates are alkyl carboxylates, and carboxylated alcohol or alkylphenol ethoxylates.

[0083] Suitable nonionic surfactants are alkoxylates, N-substituted fatty acid amides, amine oxides, esters, sugar-based surfactants, polymeric surfactants, and mixtures thereof. Examples of alkoxylates are compounds such as alcohols, alkylphenols, amines, amides, arylphenols, fatty acids or fatty acid esters which have been alkoxylated with 1 to 50 equivalents. Ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide may be employed for the alkoxylation, preferably ethylene oxide. Examples of N-substituted fatty acid amides are fatty acid glucamides or fatty acid alkanolamides. Examples of esters are fatty acid esters, glycerol esters or monoglycerides. Examples of sugar- based surfactants are sorbitans, ethoxylated sorbitans, sucrose and glucose esters or alkylpolyglucosides. Examples of polymeric surfactants are homo- or copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone, vinylalcohols, or vinylacetate. The term "nonionic surfactant" does usually not relate to the solvent of the formula (A). Typically, the solvent of the formula (A) is not suitable as nonionic surfactant (probably because it does not comprise a polar and a nonpolar residue as usual for nonionic surfactants). Suitable cationic surfactants are quaternary surfactants, for example quaternary ammonium compounds with one or two hydrophobic groups, or salts of long-chain primary amines. Suitable amphoteric surfactants are alkylbetains and imidazolines. Suitable block polymers are block polymers of the A-B or A-B-A type comprising blocks of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide, or of the A-B-C type comprising alkanol, polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide. Suitable polyelectrolytes are polyacids or polybases. Examples of polyacids are alkali salts of polyacrylic acid or polyacid comb polymers. Examples of polybases are polyvinylamines or polyethyleneamines.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises chelating agents. Suitable chelating agents for use in the solvent composition include include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). Addition of chelating agents to the solvent mixture improve its ability to sequester and bind metal ions, preventing them from interfering with the cleaning process and I or causing undesirable effects such as toxicity, staining or discoloration.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises pH adjustments, buffers and I or compounds that soften water. More preferably, the solvent composition comprises additives chosen from the list of : sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium carbonate, sodium citrate, and sodium polyphosphates, citric acid, acetic acid, and phosphoric acid, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and ammonium hydroxide. pH influences the solubility of compounds in solvents in general, and consequently impacts the detergency or cleaning ability of a solvent mixture as well. Both acidic and basic pH are commonly used in cleaning and detergency products.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises fragrances. Preferred fragrances essential oils, synthetic fragrances, and fragrance blends specifically designed for cleaning products. Suitable essential oils include the essential oils of : lavender, lemon, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, orange, lemongrass, rosemary, geranium, bergamot. Fragrances are particularly desired in cleaning, detergency and cosmetic applications. Providing a clean or desirable fragrance is important to the perception of cleanliness. It enhances the overall sensory experience and contributes to the perception of a clean environment. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent composition comprises preservatives. Preferred preserveratives include benzalkonium chloride, methylisothiazolinone (MIT), methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT), formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and 1,2-alkanediols, more preferably 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol or 1,2- octanediol. In a preferred embodiment, the preservatives are 1,2-alkanediols, more preferably 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol or 1,2-octanediol. 1,2-alkanediols are advantageous for ecological solvent solutions. They provide anti-microbial properties and act as surfactant and emulsifier, while being biodegradable and can be produced from biomass.

[0087] Suitable additional solvents which may be present in the solvent composition in addition to the solvent of the formula (A) are water and organic solvents. Suitable additional solvents are water and organic solvents, such as mineral oil fractions of medium to high boiling point, e.g. kerosene, diesel oil; oils of vegetable or animal origin; aliphatic, cyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons, e. g. toluene, paraffin, tetrahydronaphthalene, alkylated naphthalenes; alcohols, e.g. ethanol, propanol, butanol, benzyl alcohol, cyclohexanol; glycols; DMSO; ketones, e.g. cyclohexanone; esters, e.g. lactates, carbonates, fatty acid esters, gamma-butyrolactone; fatty acids; phosphonates; amines; amides, e.g. N-methylpyrrolidone, fatty acid dimethylamides; water, ethanol, butanol, lactate and butate esters, and mixtures thereof. It is preferred to add up to 40% by weight, preferably up to 20% by weight, and in particular up to 5 wt%, of additional solvents to the solvent composition according to the invention, in each case based on the solvent composition.

[0088] In another preferred form the solvent composition is essentially free of additional solvents. The solvent composition may be essentially free of additional solvents like amides based on ketocarboxylic acids, esters based on ketocarboxylic acids, monopropylenglycol esters, ester of hydroxycarboxylic acids, C8-C12 fatty acid dialkyl amides, or dialkylamides based on oleic or linoleic acid. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent mixture is essentially free of additional solvents not according to formula A. In another preferred embodiment, the solvent composition is essentially free of water, for example the solvent composition may comprise up to 5 wt%, preferably up to 2 wt%, more preferably up to 0,5 wt% of water. A solvent mixture free of additional solvents is particularly advantageous for use in industrial processes. Generally these solvents are separated and I or purified and recycled to the process. This is significantly easier when using a substantially "pure" solvent. Furthermore, a solvent composition free of other solvents and I or water may be required to prevent undesirable reactions between solvent and solutes therein.

[0089] Suitable thickeners are polysaccharides (e.g. xanthan gum, carboxymethylcellulose), inorganic clays (organically modified or unmodified), polycarboxylates, and silicates. Thickening agents help prevent run-off or dripping too quickly to ensure sufficient contact time. They also enhance the stability and suspension of solid particles, suspensions and emulsions within the formulation, preventing settling or separation. Furthermore, thickened solvent compositions are easier to control in terms of flow rate, thereby reducing wastage.

[0090] Suitable bactericides are bronopol and isothiazolinone derivatives such as alkylisothiazolinones and benzisothiazolinones.

[0091] Suitable anti-freezing agents are ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, urea and glycerin.

[0092] Suitable anti-foaming agents are silicones, long chain alcohols, and salts of fatty acids. Suitable colorants (e.g. in red, blue, or green) are pigments of low water solubility and water- soluble dyes. Examples are inorganic colorants (e.g. iron oxide, titan oxide, iron hexacyanofer- rate) and organic colorants (e.g. alizarin-, azo- and phthalocyanine colorants).

[0093] Suitable tackifiers or binders are polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylacetates, polyvinyl alcohols, pol- yacrylates, biological or synthetic waxes, and cellulose ethers. Tackifiers improve adhesive properties of the solvent composition. Furthermore, they help prevent run-off or dripping too quickly to ensure sufficient contact time.

[0094] Suitable particulates are silica, pumice, baking soda, diatomaceous earth, calcium carbonate, clay, sodium bicarbonate, zeolite, perlite, cellulose, walnut shells, cornmeal, talc, chalk, lime-stone, lime, calcium carbonate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium oxide, bentonite and mixtures thereof. Particulates provide abrasion and scrubbing action, helping to remove tough stains, grime, and dirt from various surfaces.

[0095] In a second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect. Advantages of the present invention are that a solvent composition is provided comprising a solvent that meets at least one, and preferably multiple, of the following criteria:

[0096] - fully or partly bio-based, good solvency for a wide range of components, particularly good solvency for organics where currently organic solvents such as aromatic mixtures and naphta are the preferred solvent,

[0097] - good rheological properties, such as flow, spreading and droplet behavior, low VOC emissions, high flash point and boiling point, biodegradable, and low toxicity and low phytotoxicity.

[0098] Furthermore, the present invention provides an alternative for known solvents used in solvent compositions, such as for example Solvesso 100, which is a solvent toxic to aquatic organisms and which can cause skin dryness or cracking due to repeated exposure for humans, or Isophorone, which is suspected of causing cancer. In addition, Solvesso 100 and Solvesso 150 are petroleum-based solvents, comprising aromatics and naphta, which makes the solvents hardly biodegradable and less sustainable.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for cleaning, preferably industrial and institutional cleaning. Advantageously, the solvent compositions according to present invention provide for an ecological solution for industrial and institutional cleaning where organic solvents are still required and consequently commonly used. Preferred embodiments of the solvent mixture, particularly the use of co-solvents and the incorporation of additives such as surfactants, chelating agents, builders and pH adjusters, thickeners, additional solvents, preservatives, tackifiers, antifreeze, particulates and fragrances result in high-performance cleaning and detergency solvent compositions with a much lower ecological impact. In a preferred embodiment, all compounds from the solvent composition are biodegradable. It should be noted that even if not all compounds are sufficiently biodegradable, by having a biodegradable bulk solvent the amount of non-degradable waste found in waste water by volume decreases significantly. In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for the application of coatings, preferably for the application of paints, varnishes, lacquers and enamels. The solvent composition can advantageously be used to dissolve or disperse the binders, pigments, coatings and additives in coating formulations, ensuring proper application, flow, and drying properties. Preferred applications include paints such as automotive and architectural paints, industrial coatings, wood finishes and application of lacquers such as nail lacquers.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use as lubricant.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use as industrial solvent. In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use in industrial processes. In a preferred embodiment, industrial processes include extraction, purification, separation and reactors. The solvent composition can advantageously be used in industries such as petrochemicals, food and beverage, fragrance and flavors, textiles, and printing. Preferred uses are the use of the solvent composition as solvent in solvent extraction, solvent distillation, chromatography, crystallization processes and as reaction medium. Prior to the use in such processes, the solvent composition is preferably one of high purity, i.e. high amounts of the compound according to formula (A), particularly at least 50 wt.%, more preferably at least 80 wt.%, more preferably at least 95 wt.%, more preferably at least 97 wt.%, more preferably at least 99 wt.%, most preferably essentially consisting of the compound according to formula (A).

[0102] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use in the production of suspension or emulsion polymers. Some polymers such as polyacrylamide, SBR, PVA, EVA, VEA, PVC, Polyurethane dispersions are commonly produced by emulsion polymerization. Besides the water phase, this production process uses solvents and I or co-solvents which help in the dispersion and solubilization of monomers and other hydrophobic components. Co-solvents can help control the reaction rate, monomer conversion, and particle size distribution in the emulsion. The solvent composition according to present invention provides an ecological solution for these reactive media.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use in the production of batteries, preferably lithium-ion batteries. Traditional solvents used in battery production include organic carbonates, DMSO and NMP. As a quickly growing sector which aims to provide a solution to ecological problems, a reduction of the ecological burden caused by the extensive use of solvents is necessary. For this application, the solvent composition of the first aspect provides: solvating ability of lithium salts, protective layer on the electrode surfaces, conductivity of the electrolyte, low temperature performance and thermal stability.

[0104] In a particular preferred embodiment, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for the dissolution of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). PVDF is typically solubilized into a solvent, in present practice typically NMP, and then combined with active material, additional solvent and optionally conductive additives for the production of electrodes. The solvents of present invention are deemed suitable to replace NMP in both the dissolution of PVDF as well as the production of the electrode.

[0105] In an embodiment, the invention relates to a composition of PVDF dissolved in a solvent of the first aspect. In a further embodiment, the invention relates to a composition comprising PVDF, a solvent in accordance with the first aspect; active material and optionally conductive additives. Preferably, this composition is a workable slurry. The active material may be selected from the list of : lithium cobalt oxide, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide; lithium iron phosphate for cathodes. The active material may be selected from graphite or silicon-graphite composites for anodes. The conductive additives may be selected from carbon black, conductive carbon nanotubes and other conductive carbon materials.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use as lubricant, rheology modifier or friction modifier. Lubricants have as main functionality to act as friction modifier. Besides that they may also act as anti-wear, heat transfer, pressure transfer (hydraulic oils), solid transfer, etc. The solvent composition of present invention advantageously allows to reduce the viscosity, preferably of heavy oils, waxes and polymeric compounds.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use as plasticizer, rheology modifier or friction modifier in plastics. Plasticizers have as main functionality to modify the mechanical properties of polymers. The solvent composition of present invention advantageously allows the provision of a plasticizer which can be used in combination with a wide range of polymers. Advantageously, leaching of the plasticizer from the polymer does not result in toxicity and persistent waste, but an ecological solution, while compounds according to formula (A) remain quite stable within a polymer network due to the degradation pathways and kinetics.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, present invention relates to a polymer composition comprising :

[0109] - A polymer, preferably chosen from the list of : polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), cellulose acetate (CA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polybutadiene (PBD), natural rubber (NR), and combinations thereof, preferably in an amount of at least 50 wt.%, more preferably at least 70 wt.%, more preferably at least 80 wt.%, most preferably at least 90 wt.%; and

[0110] - A solvent composition according to the first aspect of the invention, in an amount of 0.01 to 30 wt.%, preferably 1.00 to 30 wt.%, more preferably 2 to 20 wt.%, more preferably 2 to 15 wt.%, more preferably 2 to 10 wt.%.

[0111] More preferably, the solvent composition for this use is essentially pure. This allows easier formulation and compounding of the polymer mixture to obtain the desired polymer characteristics. In a preferred embodiment, present invention relates to a polymer composition comprising :

[0112] - A polymer, preferably chosen from the list of : polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl acetate (PVAc), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), cellulose acetate (CA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polybutadiene (PBD), natural rubber (NR), and combinations thereof, preferably in an amount of at least 50 wt.%, more preferably at least 70 wt.%, more preferably at least 80 wt.%, most preferably at least 90 wt.%; and

[0113] - A compound according to formula (A), in an amount of 0.01 to 30 wt.%, preferably 1.00 to 30 wt.%, more preferably 2 to 20 wt.%, more preferably 2.0 to 15 wt.%, more preferably 2.0 to 10 wt.%, more preferably 3.0 to 10 wt.%, more preferably 3.0 to 5 wt.%.

[0114] The solvent composition of present invention is particularly interesting for use in polymers which have a short lifetime, such as single-use plastics, as well as polymers which are sensitive to health, particularly medical grade polymers such as medical grade PVC, toys, food and beverage packaging. For example, phthalates, DINP, DEHP, DBP, DIDP, DNOP and BBP are all prohibited in children's toys in Europe due to leaching and toxicity concerns. Consequently, improved plasticizers in these applications are still needed.

[0115] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use in personal care and cosmetic products. In these applications, lower amounts of the compound of formula (A) are generally preferred, such as lower than 30 wt.%, more preferably lower than 20 wt.%, more preferably lower than 10 wt.%, more preferably lower than 5 wt.%, more preferably lower than 3 wt.%. Preferably at least 1 wt.%, more preferably at least 2 wt.%, more preferably about 3 wt.% is used. The compounds of formula (A) are well suited as co-formulant or co-solvent to improve the properties of solvents commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products; such as their spreadability, droplet formation, adhesion and solvency power.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use as carrier. Preferably, the use as carrier of fragrances, dyes or pigments. A wide array of solvents are used for solubilizing high value compounds such as fragrances, dyes and pigments. Even when separation as a solid is possible, often a pre-solubilized mixture is preferred for ease of use downstream. For example, pre dispersed pigments are commonly used in the ink, dye and pigment industries as they are much easier to use, that is to say to arrive at a homogeneous, stable dispersion of these pigments in the final product. The solvent composition of present invention advantageously is compatible with a wide array of compounds while providing significant ecological benefits.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment of the second aspect, the invention relates to the use of a solvent composition according to the first aspect for use in foundry resin. Foundry resins are used as binder for sand in the production of mold that are dedicated for metal casting. Advantageously, the solvent composition can be used as rheology modifier, to adjust the viscosity I flow properties of the resins. The solvent composition can also be used for the cleaning I surface preparation of the molds, patterns and core boxes, for the surface finish of the castings and for the maintenance cleaning of the foundry equipment.

[0118] In a third aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a compound according to formula (A), for use in any of the applications and preferred applications listed under the second aspect of the invention. The inventors found that a compound according to formula (A), preferably n-butyl-THFA and t-butyl-THFA, are well suited for a wide range of applications as listed under the second aspect. It is believed that in most of these applications, the use of compounds according to formula (A) and particularly its preferred embodiments is not known, and provides major ecological benefits. While ecological benefits are often being explored, for many of these applications they presently do not posses the appropriate characteristics due to which widespread use of non-ecological alternatives remains dominant.

[0119] The invention is further described by the following non-limiting examples which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

[0120] EXAMPLES

[0121] The present invention will now be further exemplified with reference to the following examples. The present invention is in no way limited to the given examples.

[0122] EXAMPLE 1: Hansen solubility parameters

[0123] Example 1 refers to the Hansen solubility parameters and the Hildebrand solubility parameter for n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA compared to known agrochemical solvents, as shown in table 1. The Hansen solubility parameters are used for predicting if one material will dissolve in another and form a (homogeneous) solution. Furthermore, solvents with similar Hansen solubility parameters will have similar solubility characteristics, including which components will and which components will not dissolve in the solvents.

[0124] TABLE 1

[0125] EXAMPLE 2-4: Theorical solubility of components in solvents of the formula (A) Example 2 refers to the theoretical solubility of different components in different solvents of the formula (A), calculated using COSMO-RS.

[0126] COSMO-RS (short for Conductor like Screening MOdel for Real Solvents) is a quantum chemistry-based equilibrium thermodynamics method with the purpose of predicting chemical potentials p in liquids. It processes the screening charge density o on the surface of molecules to calculate the chemical potential p of each species in solution. Perhaps in dilute solution a constant potential must be considered. As an initial step a quantum chemical COSMO calculation for all molecules is performed and the results (e.g. the screening charge density) are stored in a database. In a separate step COSMO-RS uses the stored COSMO results to calculate the chemical potential of the molecules in a liquid solvent or mixture. The resulting chemical potentials are the basis for other thermodynamic equilibrium properties such as activity coefficients, solubility, partition coefficients, vapor pressure and free energy of solvation.

[0127] Table 2 shows the calculated theoretical solubility of sixteen different components in six different solvents of the formula (A) in g / L.

[0128] Comparative example 3 refers to compositions with ten different components currently available on the market, as shown in table 3.

[0129] Comparative example 4 refers to the calculated theoretical solubility of sixteen different components in butyl levulinate (CAS: 2052-15-5), as shown in table 4.

[0130] The results show that the six solvents of the formula (A) are suitable alternatives to isophorone and aromatic solvents (Solvesso). Comparison also shows n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA have a similar or higher solubility for all sixteen components compared to butyl levulinate.

[0131] TABLE 2

[0132]

[0133] Wherein:

[0134] (1) = n-butyl glycasol (CAS: 99851-17-9)

[0135] (2) = t-butyl glycasol (CAS: 122977-52-0)

[0136] (3) = n-butyl glycamal (CAS: 19921-27-8)

[0137] (4) = t-butyl glycamal (CAS: 2411580-72-6) TABLE 3

[0138] TABLE 4

[0139] EXAMPLE 5-6: Experimental solubility

[0140] Example 5 and example 6 refer to the experimental maximum solubility of different components in different solvents of the formula (A), calculated using COSMO-RS.

[0141] Saturated solutions of components in n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA were prepared under MT 181. Said saturated solutions were subsequently analyzed by HPLC to determine the component concentration. The samples were centrifuged and filtered twice through 1.6 and 0.45 pm filters to remove any extraneous material prior to analysis. Results are quoted in terms of pure active ingredient (g / L) and given in table 5 and table 6.

[0142] For each combination of component, a calibration curve was established to plot the instrumental response, e.g., the analytical signal, changes with the concentration of the component.

[0143] Table 5 shows the experimental component solubility in saturation (g / L) of nine different components in t-butyl THFA compared to compositions which are currently available on the market.

[0144] Table 6 shows the experimental component solubility in saturation (g / L) of four different components in n-butyl THFA compared to compositions which are currently available on the market.

[0145] The results validate n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA as a greener alternative for aromatic solvents, such as Solvesso 100 and Solvesso 150. Especially for the dissolution of triazole fungicides, such as metconazole, difenoconazole, tebuconazole and prothioconazole. TABLE 5

[0146] TABLE 6 EXAMPLE 7: Phytotoxicity study of n-butyl TH FA and t-butyl TH FA

[0147] Example 7 refers to a study of the potential phytotoxicity of two solvents, n-butyl- THFA and t-butyl THFA, on Lactuca sativa.

[0148] The aim of this experiment is to determine if these solvents can cause phytotoxicity on lettuce at different concentrations.

[0149] Lettuce of the Lucrecia RZ variety was sown in potting soil and transplanted into 3L pots. For each of the solvents, four concentrations were tested: 1%, 2%, 5% and 10%. A control (water) was also performed. Once the 10-leaf stage was reached by the salads, they were sprayed until saturation with the solvents. Fifteen replicates per treatment were conducted. A monitoring of the appearance of potential spots due to phytotoxicity is carried out 5 days and 10 days after spraying.

[0150] None of the concentrations tested showed stains potentially related to phytotoxicities. Only a few stains related to possible wounds on older leaves were found, regardless of the treatment (solvent or control) and the concentration. They are therefore not to be taken into account for any phytotoxicity.

[0151] EXAMPLE 8: Evaluation of droplet behavior (adjuvant property)

[0152] Example 8 refers to an evaluation of n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA according to their ability to affect the behavior of an agrochemical formulation, more specifically their ability to affect droplet behavior. Soybean and wheat leaves were used as biological surfaces for the discrimination of the droplet behavior, each being tested at three doses (1%, 2% and 5%) in three replicates in order to select the most appropriate one. The characteristic of wheat and soybean leaves is that their surfaces are hydrophobic (high for wheat and medium for soybean), which is not compatible with good water retention or, in general, product retention.

[0153] A IpL droplet of product formulation with fluorescent dye was deposited at the leaf surface (adaxial face). Subsequently, photos were taken for 30 minutes in order to follow the evolution of the droplet.

[0154] Table 7 shows the visualization of the behavior and drying of droplet formulations at the surface of the wheat leaf fragment.

[0155] Table 8 shows the visualization of the behavior and drying of droplet formulations at the surface of the soybean leaf fragment. The criteria for evaluating the behavior of a droplet of formulation on a leaf or leaf fragment is as follows:

[0156] Retention of formulation on leaf (arbitrary scale):

[0157] 0.5: the droplets stick after more than 10 attempts

[0158] 1 : the droplets stick after 5 to 10 attempts

[0159] 2: the droplets stick after 2 to 4 attempts

[0160] 3: the droplets stick immediately

[0161] Shape of the drop just after deposit (arbitrary scale)

[0162] 1 : drop round (very little surface contact)

[0163] 2: light spread

[0164] 3: moderate spread

[0165] 4: high spread

[0166] 5: very high spread

[0167] Shape of the drop during drying (arbitrary scale)

[0168] 1 : drop round (very little surface contact)

[0169] 2: light spread

[0170] 3: moderate spread

[0171] 4: high spread

[0172] 5: very high spread

[0173] TABLE 7 TABLE 8

[0174] The results show that in every replicate, the droplets stick immediately, which indicates that both n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA improve retention on leaves with hydrophobic surfaces.

[0175] EXAMPLE 9: Evaluation of the distribution and coverage (adjuvant property)

[0176] Example 9 refers to an evaluation of n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA according to their ability to affect the behavior of an agrochemical formulation, more specifically their ability to affect distribution and coverage. Soybean and wheat leaves were used as biological surfaces for the discrimination of the droplet behavior, each being tested at 2% in two replicates in order to select the most appropriate one. The advantage of wheat and soybean leaves is that their surfaces are hydrophobic (high for wheat and medium for soybean), which is not compatible with good water retention or, in general, product retention. The product formulation with blue, fluorescent dye was used in a tracksprayer treatment with a TurboTwinjet nozzle. The leaves were dried for 15 hours at room temperature in the dark. Subsequently, the leaves were observed under an epifluorescence microscope.

[0177] Table 9 shows the spray distribution and coverage of the formulations on wheat and soybean leaves. The criteria for evaluating the distribution and coverage of formulations (applied at 2%) on a leaf or leaf fragment is as follows:

[0178] The number of impacts per leaf (arbitrary scale):

[0179] 1 : very low

[0180] 2: low

[0181] 3: moderate

[0182] 4: high

[0183] 5: very high

[0184] The size and spreading of impacts (arbitrary scale)

[0185] 1 : very low

[0186] 2: low

[0187] 3: moderate

[0188] 4: high

[0189] 5: very high

[0190] Estimate of the area covered by the formulations (%)

[0191] TABLE 9

[0192] The results show a good retention for every replicate. The large number and size of impacts indicates good coverage of both formulations on wheat and soybean leaves which have hydrophobic surfaces. It is further shown that n-butyl THFA appears to provide better coverage than t-butyl THFA.

[0193] EXAMPLE 10: Driving force (adjuvant property)

[0194] Example 10 refers to an evaluation of n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA according to their ability to affect the behavior of an agrochemical formulation, more specifically their ability to affect penetration. Soybean and wheat leaves were used as biological surfaces for the discrimination of the droplet behavior, each being tested at 2% in three replicates in order to select the most appropriate one. The characteristic of wheat and soybean leaves is that their surfaces are hydrophobic (high for wheat and medium for soybean), which is not compatible with good water retention or, in general, product retention.

[0195] A IpL droplet of product formulation with fluorescent dye was deposited at the leaf surface (adaxial face). Subsequently, photos were taken every 15 seconds for 45 minutes in order to follow the evolution of the droplet at 20°C.

[0196] Table 10 shows the penetration driving force of the formulations on wheat and soybean tissues. The criteria for evaluating the penetration strength of formulations on a leaf or leaf fragment is as follows:

[0197] Penetration in the leaf (arbitrary scale):

[0198] 1 : no

[0199] 2: yes

[0200] Mean penetration time of the formulation inside leaf Intensity of the penetration strength 1 : very light 2: light 3: medium 4: high TABLE 10

[0201] The results show a good penetration for every replicate. The behavior of n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA appears to be similar on wheat leaves, but the penetration time differs for n-butyl THFA and t-butyl THFA on soybean leaves.

[0202] EXAMPLE 11: n-butyl THFA biodegradability test

[0203] Example 11 refers to a 28-day biodegradability test of n-butyl THFA consisting of a manometric respiration tests according to OECD301F.

[0204] Biodegradation is the breakdown (mineralization) of an organic substance to carbon dioxide, water, mineral salts and microbial biomass. For measuring biodegradability according OECD 301 F the oxygen consumption due to substrate biodegradation in a closed respirometer is determined. The test duration is 28 days. The vessels contained 250 ml of the inoculated buffered mineral salt medium and the test material (test substance or reference substance) as the sole carbon source. To each test series blanks (without test material) were set up to run in parallel. Incubation was conducted at 22 ± 1° C in diffuse light and agitation by magnetic stirrers. All analyses were conducted at least in duplicate. Oxygen consumption was continuously measured with a respirometer. The amount of oxygen taken up by the microorganisms during biodegradation (biological oxygen demand; BOD) is compared with the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the test substance. The percent biodegradation of the test substance is calculated from the BOD in relation to the COD or alternative of the theoretical oxygen demand (ThOD) of the test substance. The test material (92 mg / L) was distributed in a thin layer on an inert carrier (glass fiber filter) and added directly to the aqueous medium.

[0205] Table 11 gives the time course of biodegradation of the test sample, reference and toxicity control.

[0206] The results show that the test sample (comprising n-butyl THFA) is 100% readily biodegradable, with already 91% biodegradability reached on day 18 and 100% biodegradability reached on day 23. In addition, according the data of the toxicity control the test sample is considered to be non-inhibitory to the microorganisms of the inoculum.

[0207] TABLE 11

[0208] EXAMPLE 12

[0209] Example 12 refers to the Hansen solubility parameters, as shown in table 12. The Hansen solubility parameters are used for predicting if one material will dissolve in another and form a (homogeneous) solution. Furthermore, solvents with similar Hansen solubility parameters will have similar solubility characteristics, including which components will and which components will not dissolve in the solvents.

[0210] Table 12 - part

[0211]

[0212] Table 12 - part

[0213] It is supposed that the present invention is not restricted to any form of realization described previously and that some modifications can be added to the presented example of fabrication without reappraisal of the appended claims. For example, the present invention has been described referring to wheat and soybean leaves, but it is clear that the invention can be applied to any plant or crop leaf without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Solvent composition, said solvent composition comprising a compound of formula (A):whereinX is chosen from O or CH2;Y1 and Y2 are independently of one another chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl, or Y1 and Y2 together are a keto-group; and R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C20 alkyl.

2. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein Y1 and Y2 are independently of one another chosen from H or a linear or branched C1-C5 alkyl.

3. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein Y1 and Y2 together are a keto-group.

4. Solvent composition according to any the previous of claims, wherein R1 is chosen from a linear or branched C1-C4 alkyl.

5. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein R1 is butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or heptyl, preferably R1 is n-butyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, or n-heptyl butyl or heptyl.

6. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein R1 is pentyl, hexyl, or heptyl.

7. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein R1 is n- pentyl, n-hexyl, or n-heptyl butyl or heptyl.

8. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein said solvent composition comprises said compound of the formula (A) in an amount of at least 0.1 to 99% by weight, preferably 3 to 80% by weight, more preferably 10 to 70% by weight.

9. Solvent composition according to any of the previous claims, wherein the solvent composition comprises : a compound according to formula (A) in an amount of at least 5 wt.%; anda second solvent, in an amount of at least 5 wt.%, preferably in an amount of at least 50 wt.%, preferably said second solvent is chosen from the list of : water, ethanol, butanol, glycerol, lactate esters preferably butyl lactate, ethyl lactate, methyl lactate and ethylhexyl lactacte, butyrate esters preferably ethyl butyrate, butyl butyrate, methyl butyrate and ethylhexyl butyrate, carbonates preferably ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate and glycerin carbonates, dimethyl glutarate, dimethyl 2- pentanedionate and methyl 5-dimethylamino-5-oxo-pentanoate, dimethyldecanamide and dimethyloctanamide, n-butyl pyrrolidone and n- octylpyrrolidone and mixtures thereof.

10. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for cleaning, preferably for industrial and institutional cleaning.

11. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for the application of coatings, preferably for the application of paints, varnishes, lacquers and enamels.

12. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for use as lubricant.

13. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for use as rheology modifier, preferably for use as rheology modifier or plasticizer in polymers and resins.

14. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for use in chemical processing, preferably as solvent for solvent extraction, solvent distillation, chromatography, crystallization processes and as reaction medium.

15. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for use in the production of batteries, preferably lithium-ion batteries.

16. Use of a solvent composition according to any of claims 1-8, for use as carrier of fragrances, dyes or pigments.

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