Solid cleaning composition comprising at least one cavity

A porous solid cleaning composition with cavities addresses ecological and economic inefficiencies by enhancing hydration and transformation into a liquid state, reducing waste and material usage while maintaining cleaning efficacy.

FR3137107B1Active Publication Date: 2026-05-01SOLIFEEL
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
SOLIFEEL
Filing Date
2022-06-28
Publication Date
2026-05-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current cleaning compositions, particularly in liquid and powder forms, face ecological, economic, and performance issues due to water usage, waste generation, and blockage risks, while solid compositions often require unnecessary volume and material, leading to inefficiencies and pollution.

Method used

A solid cleaning composition with a porosity greater than 20% by volume, featuring cavities that allow for efficient hydration and transformation into a liquid state, reducing material usage and waste while maintaining grip and cleaning efficacy.

Benefits of technology

The composition achieves effective cleaning with reduced material and water consumption, minimizing waste and pollution, and offers improved handling and performance compared to traditional forms.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Solid cleaning composition comprising at least one cavity. The present invention relates to a solid cleaning composition comprising at least one detergent active ingredient, in particular a surfactant, characterized in that the composition comprises a cavity such that said composition has a porosity greater than or equal to 20% by volume relative to the total volume of said solid composition, as well as associated manufacturing processes. Figure for the abstract: none
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Description

Title of the invention: Solid cleaning composition comprising at least one cavity

[0001] The invention relates to the field of solid cleaning compositions, used in particular as household products and / or laundry detergents. In particular, the invention relates to solid cleaning compositions comprising one or more detergent surfactants.

[0002] Today, cleaning compositions are mainly in the form of liquid products, powder to be dispersed or pad (or wipes) to be dispersed, generally based on water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA or PVOH).

[0003] Liquid products rely on distribution circuits that are not ecologically relevant, because they are mainly composed of water and therefore have significant volumes and weights.

[0004] Dispersing powders often lead to the formation of hydrated powder aggregates, which is undesirable. Indeed, these aggregates reduce cleaning performance, and in the case of laundry detergents, can even form blockages that clog or even break washing machines.

[0005] As for the pads, this is a falsely ecological solution because, dissolved in water, polyvinyl alcohol pollutes groundwater.

[0006] Furthermore, in the case of single-dose use, the size and volume of current solid cleaning compositions are generally dictated by the need to ensure easy handling by the user. This size and volume are therefore generally greater than those actually required to ensure satisfactory cleaning. Thus, a significant portion of these solid compositions is in fact unnecessary, generating considerable waste and pollution, which, for obvious reasons, is unsatisfactory from an economic and environmental standpoint.

[0007] The inventors have found that it is possible to propose solid cleaning compositions that overcome the aforementioned disadvantages without prejudice to good user grip and satisfactory cleaning properties. Composition

[0008] The invention thus relates to a solid cleaning composition comprising at least one detergent active ingredient, in particular a surfactant, characterized in that the composition comprises a cavity such that said composition comprises a porosity greater than or equal to 20%, preferably greater than or equal to 30%, better greater than or equal to 40%, in particular greater than or equal to 50%, or even greater than or equal to 60%, in particular greater than or equal to 70%, and most particularly greater than or equal to 80%, by volume relative to the total volume of said solid composition.

[0009] Thus, a composition according to the invention may remain endowed with a size and / or volume similar(s) to current solid compositions but differs by the presence of at least one cavity such that the porosity of said composition is greater than or equal to 20% by volume relative to the total volume of said composition.

[0010] For the purposes of this invention, "solid" means a composition which, at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, is not prone to collapse under its own weight. Advantageously, it means any composition having a compressive strength greater than or equal to 20 g, preferably greater than or equal to 50 g, and even better greater than or equal to 100 g, at room temperature (20-25°C), after penetration of the composition's matrix to a thickness of 1 mm by a cylindrical probe of revolution having a diameter of 0.8 cm at a speed of 0.5 mm / s and removal of said probe from the composition's matrix at a speed of 0.5 mm / s; the compressive strength being measured with an "LFRA Texture Analyzer" type analyzer marketed by STEVENS / MECHTRIC.

[0011] A composition according to the invention is not in the form of a paste. A composition according to the invention is not a powdered composition, and is therefore not in the form of a powder. Finally, a composition according to the invention is also not a porous solid resulting from the agglomeration of powders. According to a first embodiment, a composition according to the invention is not an aerated composition, and is therefore not a foam. According to a second embodiment, a composition according to the invention may be an aerated composition, and therefore may be in the form of a foam.

[0012] Preferably, a solid composition according to the invention is not coated with a water-soluble coating.

[0013] By "porosity", in the context of the present invention, we mean the set of voids in a solid material, these voids being able to be filled by fluids, in particular water, when the solid composition is brought into the presence of an aqueous solution, for example water such as tap water, toilet water, dishwasher water or washing machine water.

[0014] For the purposes of this invention, "cavity" means an empty space within a solid body that communicates directly with the external environment, such as the cavities illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and 6. A cavity may therefore be referred to interchangeably as an "orifice," "pore," or "hole." Advantageously, the cavity(ies) is / are through-hole(s), meaning that the cavity designates an empty space within a solid body that communicates directly with the external environment on both sides of the solid body.

[0015] Thus, the volume of the cavity(ies) in a solid composition according to the invention re presents at least 20%, in particular at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, in particular at least 50%, or even at least 60%, in particular at least 70%, and most particularly at least 80%, of the total volume of said solid composition.

[0016] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention has a density between 0.2 and 0.8, preferably between 0.3 and 0.7, in particular between 0.4 and 0.6.

[0017] A solid composition according to the invention can have a total volume between 0.125 cm3 and 100 cm3, preferably between 0.250 cm3 and 75 cm3, in particular between 0.5 cm3 and 50 cm3, better between 1 cm3 and 25 cm3, and especially between 2.5 cm3 and 15 cm3.

[0018] A solid composition according to the invention can have a weight between 0.025 g and 200 g, preferably between 0.25 g and 150 g, in particular between 0.5 g and 100 g, better between 1 g and 75 g, especially between 2.5 g and 50 g, or even between 5 g and 25 g (“g” corresponding to the unit “gram”).

[0019] According to a first preferred embodiment, a solid composition according to the invention comprises a ratio between the volume of the cavities and the total volume of the composition of between 0.05 and 0.9, preferably between 0.1 and 0.8, better between 0.2 and 0.7, or even between 0.2 and 0.6.

[0020] By "total volume" we mean the volume resulting from the sum of the volume of solid and the volume of cavities.

[0021] Within the framework of the present invention, the cavities can be described as macroporous, that is to say, pores whose minimum width, or even diameter, is greater than or equal to 1 mm, or even between 1 mm and 2 cm, preferably between 2 mm and 1 cm, in particular between 3 mm and 75 mm, better between 4 mm and 50 mm, and especially between 5 mm and 25 mm.

[0022] The presence of cavities in the contents and / or volumes and / or dimensions considered above makes it possible to obtain solid compositions that require less raw material while still possessing satisfactory gripping properties. A solid composition according to the invention is therefore capable of generating less waste. This weight reduction also has the advantage of allowing for less polluting and less expensive transport. A solid composition according to the invention is therefore advantageous from both an environmental and an economic point of view.

[0023] Furthermore, the inventors observed an unexpected effect when a solid composition according to the invention is brought into contact with an aqueous phase. Indeed, the inventors observed that a solid composition according to the invention, upon contact with an aqueous phase, produces a greater quantity of foam more rapidly than a solid composition of the same size and volume but without cavities, and even exhibits a faster transformation kinetics from the original solid state to a liquid state, for example, a gel or cream. Without wishing to be bound by a Regardless of any theory, the inventors believe that the presence of cavity(s) within the solid composition allows for an increase in the surface area of ​​contact with the aqueous phase, particularly water, and therefore better hydration of said solid composition.

[0024] Thus, the invention even makes it possible to adjust the speed at which the solid composition will foam, or even swell and / or melt, by adjusting the surface area developed at constant volume, by adjusting the percentage of porosity, and more particularly by playing on the shape and / or the number and / or the dimensions of the cavities, or even the number of walls and / or the thickness of the walls of the cavities.

[0025] Advantageously, the size and / or volume of the cavities can be adjusted to store and / or react the right amount of water needed to achieve a final liquid composition with satisfactory / expected, or even optimized and / or homogeneous properties (i.e. between different single doses), for example in terms of viscosity, amount of foam formed and / or transformative effect.

[0026] Thus, a composition according to the invention even makes it possible to access evanescent compositions, namely those capable of transforming into liquid compositions, in particular in the form of gels or creams, upon contact with an adequate amount of water.

[0027] Finally, the advantages described above in terms of ability to foam and / or to transform into a liquid composition may also require less water consumption, which constitutes an additional advantage from an ecological and economic point of view.

[0028] The solid character can result from a saponification reaction (or "spreading"), and therefore result from the transformation of a fatty phase comprising at least one oil, preferably vegetable, under the action of soda and heat.

[0029] The solid character of a composition according to the invention can result from the presence of at least one gelling agent, preferably thermosensitive.

[0030] A solid composition according to the invention can have any shape, for example a spherical, ellipsoidal, tetrahedral, or polygonal shape, in particular in the shape of a parallelogram, preferably a rectangular parallelogram.

[0031] Preferably, particularly to ensure a good grip, a solid composition according to the invention has:

[0032] - a width, or even a diameter, between 1 and 10 cm, preferably between 2 and 8 cm, especially between 3 and 6 cm, and better between 4 and 5 cm; and / or

[0033] - a height (or thickness) between 0.5 and 5 cm, preferably between 1 and 4 cm, and in particular between 2 and 3 cm.

[0034] The cavity(ies) of a solid composition according to the invention may be of any shape, for example round, oblong, ovoid, triangular, polygonal, in particular hexagonal, honeycomb, or in the form of a tiling (or cutout), by example of a Voronoi diagram type, preferably in the form of a honeycomb, as illustrated in figures 3 and 6.

[0035] The cavity(s) of a solid composition according to the invention may also represent letters or the logo of a brand or company, as illustrated in [Fig.2]

[0036] A solid composition according to the invention comprises one or more cavities, preferably several cavities, identical or different.

[0037] According to a first variant, a composition according to the invention comprises at least one cavity, in particular a through cavity.

[0038] According to a second preferred embodiment, a composition according to the invention comprises several cavities, in particular through-cavities, as illustrated in figures 3 and 6.

[0039] According to a particular embodiment, a composition according to the invention may comprise at least two interconnected cavities. Such an embodiment is advantageous because it promotes capillary action upon contact with water, thereby improving the aforementioned technical effects.

[0040] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention comprises several cavities that adopt a honeycomb-shaped structure, as illustrated in [Fig. 3]. This honeycomb shape is particularly advantageous in that it allows the manufacture of solid compositions with a very favorable "volume of the cavity(ies) / total volume of the composition" ratio, in particular greater than or equal to 0.5, or even greater than or equal to 0.75, without prejudice to the grip and robustness of said composition to the mechanical stresses that may be applied to it and / or to storage. In other words, this honeycomb structure offers an excellent compromise between cavity volume and mechanical strength.

[0041] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention comprises several cavities which adopt a honeycomb-shaped structure comprising walls having a thickness of between 10 qm and 600 qm, preferably between 20 qm and 500 qm, in particular between 30 qm and 400 qm, especially between 50 qm and 300 qm, or even between 100 qm and 200 qm.

[0042] According to a particular embodiment, a composition according to the invention may further comprise additional patterns distinct from the cavities, said patterns being able, for example, to be produced by embossing.

[0043] A person skilled in the art shall take care to choose the possible constituent compound(s) of a composition according to the invention and / or their quantity in such a way that the advantageous properties of a composition according to the invention are not or are not substantially altered. Likewise, a person skilled in the art shall take care to choose the nature and / or quantity of compound(s) with regard to the solid, or even anhydrous where applicable, character of said composition and / or the manufacturing process. These adjustments fall within the scope of general knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0044] In particular, a composition according to the invention may include at least one gelling agent, preferably heat-sensitive.

[0045] The gelling agent can be chosen from hydrophilic gelling agents, i.e. soluble or dispersible in water, or lipophilic gelling agents, i.e. soluble or dispersible in an oil.

[0046] A hydrophilic gelling agent may be chosen from those described in WO2021234135.

[0047] A lipophilic gelling agent can be chosen from at least one solid fat, of preference chosen from at least one wax, at least one pasty fat, at least one butter, and mixtures thereof, for example as described in WO2021234135.

[0048] Advantageously, a lipophilic gelling agent is a heat-sensitive gelling agent, namely one that reacts to heat, and in particular is a gelling agent that is solid at room temperature and liquid at a temperature above 50°C, preferably above 60°C, and even better above 70°C. Preferably, a heat-sensitive gelling agent according to the invention has a melting point between 50°C and 130°C, and preferably between 60°C and 120°C.

[0049] In particular, a composition according to the invention may comprise from 10% to 90%, preferably from 20% to 80%, in particular from 30% to 70%, and better from 40% to 60%, by weight of gelling agent(s) relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0050] A composition according to the invention may comprise at least one oil, in particular at least one oil suitable for solubilizing fats. "Oil" means a fat that is liquid at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure. Examples of oils according to the invention include:

[0051] - hydrocarbon oils of vegetable origin;

[0052] - hydrocarbon oils of animal origin, such as perhydrosqualene and squalane;

[0053] - synthetic esters and ethers, particularly of fatty acids, such as oils of formulas RiCOOR2 and RiOR2 in which Ri represents the remainder of a fatty acid in C8 to C29, and R2 represents a hydrocarbon chain, branched or unbranched, in C3 to C30, such as Purcellin oil, isononyl isononanoate, isodecyl neopentanoate, isostearyl neopentanoate, isopropyl myristate, octyldodecyl myristate, ethyl-2-hexyl palmitate, octyl-2-dodecyl stearate, octyl-2-dodecyl erucate, isostearyl isostearate; Hydroxylated esters such as isostearyl lactate, octyl hydroxystearate, octyldodecyl hydroxystearate, dii-sostearyl malate, triisocetyl citrate, heptanoates, octanoates, decanoates of fatty alcohols; polyol esters such as propylene glycol dioctanoate, neopentyl glycol diheptanoate and diethylene glycol diisononanoate; and pentaerythritol esters such as pentaerythrityl tetrabehenate (DUB PTB) or tetra- pentaerythrityl sostearate (Prisorin 3631);

[0054] - linear or branched hydrocarbons, of mineral or synthetic origin, such as paraffin oils, volatile or not, and their derivatives, petroleum jelly, polydecenes, hydrogenated polyisobutene such as Parleam oil;

[0055] - fatty alcohols having from 8 to 26 carbon atoms, such as cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol and their mixture (cetylstearyl alcohol), or even octyldodecanol;

[0056] - and their mixtures.

[0057] Preferably, a composition according to the invention comprises at least one vegetable oil.

[0058] An oil suitable for solubilizing fats is preferably chosen from among alkyl esters of fatty acids, mono, di- or triglycerides of fatty acids and fatty alcohols having a chain length of 8 to 16, preferably 10 to 12 carbon atoms.

[0059] In particular, a composition according to the invention may comprise from 10% to 90%, preferably from 20% to 80%, in particular from 30% to 70%, and better from 40% to 60%, by weight of oil(s) relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0060] A composition according to the invention comprises at least one detergent agent, for example a surfactant, in particular selected from a cationic, non-ionic, anionic, amphoteric surfactant, and mixtures thereof.

[0061] Such surfactants are chosen from those commonly used for cleaning compositions. This is particularly the case when the composition according to the invention is a SYNDET (which derives from the term "synthetic detergents") also referred to as "soap-free soap" or "dermatological bar".

[0062] Examples of anionic surfactants include sodium lauryl sulfate, acyl isethionate, sodium alkylsulfosuccinate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, and disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate. Examples of cationic surfactants include benzalkonium chloride. Examples of amphoteric surfactants include cocamidopropyl betaine, coco amphoteric acetate, and diacetate.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, a composition according to the invention is a SYNDET.

[0064] In particular, a composition according to the invention may comprise from 1% to 60%, preferably from 2.5% to 40%, in particular from 5% to 30%, and better from 10% to 20%, by weight of surfactant(s) relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0065] A composition according to the invention is advantageous in that it allows for high concentrations of surfactants. Thus, a composition according to the invention may comprise at least 30%, preferably at least 40% by weight of surfactant(s) relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0066] According to a first embodiment, a composition according to the invention is anhydrous. By "Anhydrous," as used in the present invention, means a composition which, before any contact with water, comprises a water content of less than 5% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight, and in particular less than 0.5% by weight, relative to the total weight of said composition. This is notably the case when a composition according to the invention is a SYNDET.

[0067] Optionally, the oily phase of a composition according to this first variant may further comprise at least one hydrophilic compound, i.e. water-soluble or water-dispersible, mixed in said oily phase.

[0068] According to a second embodiment, a composition according to the invention comprises an oily phase and an aqueous phase, one of the two phases being able to form a dispersed phase and the other forming a continuous phase. For example, the dispersed phase is in encapsulated form such as, for example, matrix spheres (or beads or pellets) or of the core / shell type (or capsules), for example, in the form of capsules as described in WO2010063937.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the mass percentage of water in the dispersed aqueous phase can then be between 0.5 and 50%, preferably between 1 and 40%, in particular between 2.5 and 30%, and better between 5 and 20%, by weight relative to the total mass of the composition.

[0070] A composition according to the invention, in particular the oily phase, or even the dispersed aqueous phase when present, may further comprise at least one additional compound different from the aforementioned lipophilic gelling agents, oils and / or detergent agents.

[0071] A composition according to the invention may further comprise an alkali compound, a complexing agent, a sequestering agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, an activator, a brightening agent, a polycarboxylate, abrasive particles, a descaling agent, sodium bicarbonate, a hydrotrope, a softener, an adjuvant or co-adjuvant, a preservative, an electrolyte, an effervescent agent, a disintegrating agent, an essential oil, a perfumer, a biocide, a disinfectant, a coloring agent, glitter, a plasticizer, a binder, an absorbent agent, a foaming agent, a masking agent, a pH regulating agent, or any usual cleaning additive, and mixtures thereof.

[0072] An alkaline compound increases the effectiveness of surfactants by acting on the pH of the water so that it remains high, and can for example be chosen from borates, carbonates, and their mixtures.

[0073] A complexing agent, or chelating agent or anti-limescale agent, traps calcium, increases the effectiveness of detergents, and can for example be chosen from citrates, metaphosphates, polyphosphates, zeolites, EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), NTA, phosphonates, and mixtures thereof.

[0074] A sequestering agent, also called an anti-redeposition agent, prevents soiling trapped by surfactants from being redeposited on the laundry, and can for example be chosen from carboxymethylcellulose, phosphonates, and their mixture.

[0075] An enzyme breaks down organic molecules by splitting them into smaller particles, and can, for example, be chosen from among lipases and / or proteases. The different enzymes act on different stains: lipases act on oily (lipid) stains, proteases act on protein stains (blood, grass, etc.).

[0076] A bleaching agent acts by oxidation or reduction, preferably by oxidation, and may for example be chosen from perborates, percarbonates, peroxides, such as sodium perborate, sodium percarbonate, hydrogen peroxide, and mixtures thereof.

[0077] An activator enables bleaching agents to be effective at low temperatures. Bleaching activators can be selected from bleaching precursors, bleaching catalysts, and mixtures thereof, as described in EP0797656.

[0078] A brightening agent (or optical brightener) absorbs ultraviolet rays and re-emits blue light, so that the surface to be cleaned (or treated), particularly laundry, appears brighter and whiter. Generally, these are synthetic organic molecules created from derivatives containing aromatic rings, particularly those from two main groups of stilbene derivatives containing sulfonate groups. These groups include distyryl biphenyl (DSBP) and diaminostilbene (DAS) derivatives. Some other groups include coumarin, pyrazoline, benzoxazole, naphthalimide, and pyrene derivatives. Three molecules from the stilbene family make up the largest share of the global market: DSBP, DAS1 and DAS2 or 4,4'-bis[(4-(4-sulfoanilino)-6-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino-l,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]stilbene-2,2'-disulfonate].

[0079] Polycarboxylates prevent encrustation and are described in more detail in WO2000043484.

[0080] Preferably, the abrasive particles are of vegetable origin, in particular those described in WO2017009042. Such particles are, for example, derived from vegetable materials such as apricot kernels, corn kernels, walnut shells, or olive pits. To ensure good cleaning performance while reducing damage caused by scratches, the abrasive particles preferably have a Mohs hardness of 1 to 7, more preferably a Mohs hardness of 2 to 6, and even more preferably a Mohs hardness of 3 to 5 (kg / mm²).

[0081] A hydrotrope is, for example, a sodium, potassium, or ammonium salt of xylene nesulfonate, toluenesulfonate, ethylbenzenesulfonate, isopropylbenzenesulfonate, n-amylsulfate and n-hexylsulfonate, urea, or polymeric hydrotropes as described in EP0797656, and mixtures thereof.

[0082] An electrolyte is preferably chosen from salts (e.g., alkali metal) of organic and mineral acids. Examples of such electrolyte materials include phosphates (e.g., STP), silicates (e.g., metasilicates, disilicates), hypochlorites, carbonates (e.g., bicarbonates and percarbonates), hydroxides, halides (e.g., chloride), sulfates (e.g., sulfate), sequestrants (e.g., ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid and sodium nitrilotriacetate), citrates, and borates (e.g., perborates). Similarly, the corresponding acids can be used, since these generally transform into the effective salt form in the non-aqueous liquid product itself or immediately upon dilution in the washing solution.

[0083] A disintegrating agent is for example chosen from croscarmellose, carboxymethylcellulose, and mixtures thereof.

[0084] An adjuvant or co-adjuvant is for example an aminocarboxylate, in particular chosen from the group consisting of methylglycine diacetate (MGDA), imi-nodisuccinic acid (IDS), glutamic acid diacetate (GLDA), ethylenediaminedisuccinic acid (EDDS), polyasparatic acid, as described in EP3497199.

[0085] In particular, a composition according to the invention further comprises at least one biocide or disinfectant, whereby said composition is then a biocidal, disinfectant or antimicrobial cleaning composition.

[0086] Examples of biocides that can be used in the present invention include strong acids, alkalis, phenolic substances, and oxidizing agents such as peracids and hypohalites. A disinfectant may be chosen, for example, from bleach and / or white vinegar.

[0087] In particular, a composition according to the invention further comprises at least one plasticizer and / or at least one binder. This is notably the case when a composition according to the invention is a SYNDET, as defined above.

[0088] The plasticizer allows, in particular, for better extrusion and stamping. Examples of plasticizers include long-chain fatty acids (e.g., greater than Cl6) such as polyol esters, glycerol monostearate, sorbitan stearate, glycol stearate, and mixtures thereof.

[0089] The binder helps to prevent the separation of macroscopic aggregates and therefore to prevent the appearance of cracking on the solid composition.

[0090] A composition according to the invention may further comprise at least sodium lactate and / or at least one salt. Such ingredients have the particular advantage of hardening the composition according to the invention.

[0091] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention does not comprise polyvinyl alcohol (PVA or PVOH), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyacrylonitrile (PES or PAN), poly-polyethylene terephthalate methacrylate, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, hyaluronic acid, starch, cellulose (e.g. rayon) and / or cotton.

[0092] A composition according to the invention does not comprise (or is not based on) a water-soluble solid support, for example of the hydrogel type, in particular based on starch, possibly unstructured, and / or poloxamer 407.

[0093] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention is not made up of a network of fibers.

[0094] A composition according to the invention may further comprise at least one solvent capable of evaporating in whole or in part during the manufacturing process, as described below. Examples of solvents include a nonpolar or slightly polar organic solvent, such as cyclohexane, THF (tetrahydrofuran), and mixtures thereof.

[0095] Naturally, a person skilled in the art will take care to choose any additional compound(s) and / or their quantity in such a way that the advantageous properties of the composition according to the invention are not, or are not substantially, altered by the envisaged addition. Likewise, a person skilled in the art will take care to choose the nature and / or quantity of the additional compound(s) according to whether the phase in question is aqueous or oily and / or with regard to the manufacturing process of the composition. These adjustments fall within the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0096] The solid nature of a composition according to the invention advantageously eliminates the need for conventional packaging. Indeed, the packaging of a solid composition according to the invention can be limited to simple wrapping in paper. Manufacturing process

[0097] A composition according to the invention is obtained by any process known to a person skilled in the art adapted to the manufacture of a solid composition, with the necessary adaptations to ensure the formation of cavities and thus satisfy the required porosity criterion. Procedure No. 1

[0098] According to a first embodiment, a method for manufacturing a composition according to the invention comprises at least the steps of:

[0099] (i) have a composition in liquid or semi-liquid form;

[0100] (ii) pour the composition into a mold and dry until a solid composition is obtained,

[0101] (iii) cut the solid composition into the desired shape, and

[0102] (iv) form cavities to obtain a solid composition according to the invention.

[0103] According to a particular embodiment, such a manufacturing process is a saponification process (or "paste").

[0104] Step (i) is advantageously carried out while hot.

[0105] Advantageously, steps (iii) and (iv) are simultaneous.

[0106] Advantageously, steps (ii), (iii) and (iv) are simultaneous, in which case the mold has a suitable shape to ensure the formation of the cavity(ies).

[0107] Step (iv) is advantageously carried out using a cutter.

[0108] Process No. 1 is advantageous in that the scrap obtained at the end of step (iv) can be recovered in subsequent manufacturing. Indeed, this scrap can be reheated and reintroduced into a subsequent process No. 1 at step (i) and / or (ii).

[0109] Advantageously, when the process is based on a saponification step, a process according to the invention may further include, before step (ii), at least one washing step, in order to remove the remaining soda. Method No. 2

[0110] According to a second variant, a method for manufacturing a composition according to the invention is an extrusion method.

[0111] Such a manufacturing process according to the invention comprises at least the steps of:

[0112] (a) have a composition in liquid or semi-liquid form;

[0113] (b) passing the composition of step (a) through an extrusion device provided of a die (or extrusion grid) of a suitable shape to form a solid bar, and

[0114] (c) cut the bar obtained in step (b) to obtain a solid composition according the invention.

[0115] For obvious reasons, step (b) is carried out at a suitable temperature to obtain a composition with sufficient viscosity and capable of retaining the shape given by the die.

[0116] For obvious reasons, the shape of the die of the extrusion device is also adapted to ensure the formation of the cavity(ies).

[0117] Advantageously, step (b) is carried out at a temperature lower than the ambient temperature, and for example at a temperature less than or equal to 15°C, or even less than or equal to 10°C.

[0118] At step (b), the extrusion device includes a die with a shape adapted to form the cavity(s) and the desired level(s) of porosity in the solid bar.

[0119] By way of illustration, an extrusion process according to the invention includes a die such as that illustrated in [Fig.4].

[0120] Step (c) can be carried out using a knife or a wire, such as for example a butter cutter.

[0121] Preferably, steps (b) and (c) are simultaneous.

[0122] Preferably, the manufacturing process for a composition according to the invention is the extrusion process No. 2 described above.

[0123] According to a particular embodiment, applicable to processes No. 1 and No. 2 described above, step (i) / (a) consists of having a fluid composition which may include at least one solvent capable of evaporating in whole or in part during step (ii) / (b), or even further during step (iii) and / or (iv) / (c).

[0124] As a solvent, one can cite for example a nonpolar or slightly polar organic solvent, for example cyclohexane, THF (tetrahydrofuran), and their mixture.

[0125] In processes No. 1 and No. 2 above, when the composition includes at least one heat-sensitive gelling agent, step (i) / (a) may require heating said composition to a temperature above the highest melting point of the heat-sensitive gelling agents present in said composition.

[0126] According to a particular embodiment, extrusion process no. 2 can be carried out by a 3D printing technique. Use

[0127] A composition according to the invention is dedicated to cleaning, for example to cleaning dirt, grease stains and / or grease.

[0128] In particular, a composition according to the invention is a multi-purpose cleaner.

[0129] In particular, a composition according to the invention is a dishwashing product, and is therefore dedicated to dishwashing.

[0130] In particular, a composition according to the invention is a laundry detergent, and is therefore dedicated to washing clothes in washing machines or in laundries.

[0131] Advantageously, a solid composition according to the invention is intended to be brought into contact with an aqueous phase, in particular water, before, simultaneously and / or after its application to the surface to be treated.

[0132] Thus, according to a first embodiment, in particular when a composition according to the invention is of the single-dose type, the contact with water is extemporaneous, that is to say just before use and / or simultaneously if applied to a wet surface to be cleaned.

[0133] According to a second embodiment, when a composition according to the invention is not of the single-dose type, contact with water occurs only during the first use, and presupposes that the "solid composition / water" mixture is packaged in a suitable receptacle. For obvious reasons, this requires a solid composition with a suitable formula and a sufficient quantity of water to ensure the transition from a solid composition to a liquid composition, by for example, in gel form. Also, this requires the presence in the solid composition of at least one preservative to ensure good long-term preservation of the resulting liquid composition.

[0134] A solid composition according to the invention, particularly when it adopts a honeycomb-type configuration as described above, may comprise a plurality of sections, in particular polygonal sections, each section defining a fracturable perimeter allowing the separation of at least one section from the rest of the solid composition. Thus, according to this embodiment, each section of the solid composition corresponds to a single dose.

[0135] Finally, the present invention also relates to a method of cleaning a surface to be treated, comprising at least one step of applying to the surface to be treated at least one composition as defined above. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0136] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] represents a composition according to the invention in the form of a parallelepiped having a cylindrical cavity. A corresponds to the side view and B corresponds to the top view.

[0137] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents an ovoid-shaped composition according to the invention featuring cavities (top view), representing the word "SOAP".

[0138] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 represents a composition according to the invention having cavities in honeycomb (top view).

[0139] [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] represents a die used for the process of the invention.

[0140] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] represents a comparative flow.

[0141] [Fig.6] Fig.6 represents further examples of solid compositions according to the invention. EXAMPLES

[0142] Example 1 - Comparative study for dishwashing Step 1 - manufacturing:

[0143] Using a mixer and a water bath at 80°C, the raw materials are mixed in the order and quantities described in the following table until a homogeneous mixture is obtained.

[0144] [Tables 1] Name Weight (in kg) Trisodium citrate q.s.p.* Sodium carbonate 12.80 Sodium silicate 8.50 Sodium Cl₂O-16 Alkylbenzenesulfonate 8.25 Lutensol® AT 50 3.90 Sorbitan stearate 16.50 Glycol distearate 14.80 Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) 3.80 Protease 4.55 Amylase 0.80 Colorant Blue El33 ​​Lake 0.04 Fragrance 0.06 Total 100

[0145] Step 1 - manufacturing:

[0146] The preparation of the composition described in Table 1 above falls within the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0147] Step 2 - extrusion:

[0148] - The composition obtained in step 1 is injected into an extruder equipped, in a first case, of a die according to the invention as illustrated in [Fig.4] and in a second case, of a comparative die as illustrated in [Fig.5];

[0149] - At the end of the die, the extruded blocks are cut so as to obtain the weights and volumes described in Table 1 below.

[0150] - Monodoses are obtained, respectively, in the form of a solid composition according to the invention having a honeycomb structure (dose 1, for example like those described in [Fig.6]) and a comparative solid composition having a general shape identical to dose 1 but without a cavity (doses 2 and 3).

[0151] [Tables2] Dose 1 (invention) Dose 2 (comparative) Dose 3 (comparative) Weight (in mg) 250 250 1000 Volume (in cm3) 1 0.25 1 Porosity (%) >75 0 0

[0152] Step 3 - application:

[0153] Step 3 is carried out using a group of 36 individuals (women and men) between 22 and 47 years old (hereinafter the "candidates"), with 3 subgroups then being formed, each group consisting of 12 individuals (groups A, B and C).

[0154] Each of groups A, B and C will use doses 1, 2 and 3 as stool wash tablets, but each time in different orders.

[0155] During this step 3, the candidates evaluate the performance of doses 1, 2 and 3 in terms of (i) gripping ability, (ii) cleanliness of the dishes and (iii) condition of the dose after use, i.e. after a cycle in the dishwasher.

[0156] Rating criteria:

[0157] [Tables3] RATING CRITERIA 0 1 2 Grip Satisfactory Average Poor Cleanliness High Average Insufficient Dose status after use Complete disappearance Some residue General structure preserved

[0158] The averages of the results obtained with the three groups A, B and C are presented in the following table, it being understood that the trends observed are identical between the three groups.

[0159] [Tables4] Dose 1 (Invention) Dose 2 (Comparative) Dose 3 (Comparative) Grip 0 2 0 Cleanliness 0 1 1 Condition after use 0 0 2

[0160] With the classic doses 2 and 3, it is observed that when the size is too small, the grip is poor and it is difficult to handle, and when it is too large, it is not always possible to consume it completely during a dishwasher cycle, which generates losses and pollution.

[0161] The dose according to the invention 1 makes it possible to combine the advantages of the conventional doses 2 and 3 without their disadvantages.

[0162] A composition according to the invention, thanks to the presence of cavities in the contents considered, makes it possible to access solid compositions with satisfactory cleaning properties with less material while generating less loss and less pollution, and this without prejudice to gripping properties.

[0163] A solid composition according to the invention is therefore less demanding in terms of raw materials and is therefore advantageous both ecologically and economically.

[0164] Example 2 - Comparative study for laundry cleaning Step 1 - manufacturing:

[0165] [Tables5] INCI % Sodium tripolyphosphate QSP* Sodium alkane sulphonate 16.24 Sorbitan stearate 15.5 Glycol distearate 14.5 Sodium perborate tetrahydrate 15.12 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate 6.3 Sodium carboxymethylcellulose 1.4 Sodium alkane carboxylate 1.68 Sodium sulphate 1.575 Sodium metasilicate 0.595 Protease 0.455 Lipase 0.14 Amylase 0.14 Tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) 1.575 Sodium CIO-16 Alkylbenzenesulfonate 1.505 Fragrance 0.035 Total 100

[0166] * Sufficient Quantity For

[0167] The preparation of the composition described in Table 5 above falls within the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art. Step 2 - extrusion:

[0168] - The mixture obtained in step 1 is injected into an extruder equipped, in a first case, of a die according to the invention as illustrated in [Fig.4] and in a second case, of a comparative die as illustrated in [Fig.5];

[0169] - At the end of the die, the extruded blocks are cut so as to obtain the weights and volumes described in Table 1 below.

[0170] - Single-dose solid compositions are obtained, respectively, in the form of a solid composition according to the invention having a honeycomb structure (dose 1, for example like those described in [Fig.6]) and a comparative solid composition having a general shape identical to dose 1 but without a cavity (doses 2 and 3).

[0171] [Tableauxô] Dose 1 (invention) Dose 2 (comparative) Dose 3 (comparative) Weight (in mg) 250 250 1000 Volume (in cm3) 1 0.25 1 Porosity (%) >75 0 0 Step 3 - Application:

[0172] Step 3 is carried out using a group of 36 individuals (women and men) between 22 and 47 years old (hereinafter the "candidates"), with 3 subgroups then being formed, each group consisting of 12 individuals (groups A, B and C).

[0173] Each of groups A, B and C will use doses 1, 2 and 3 as washing machine tablets, but each time in different orders.

[0174] During this step 3, the candidates evaluate the performance of doses 1, 2 and 3 in terms of (i) gripping ability, (ii) cleanliness of the laundry and (iii) condition of the dose after use, i.e. after a washing machine cycle. Rating criteria:

[0175] [Tables7] RATING CRITERIA 0 1 2 Grip Satisfactory Average Poor Cleanliness High Average Insufficient Dose status after use Complete disappearance Some residue General structure preserved

[0176] The averages of the results obtained with the three groups A, B and C are presented in the following table, it being understood that the trends observed are identical between the three groups.

[0177] [Tables8] Dose 1 (Invention) Dose 2 (Comparative) Dose 3 (Comparative) Grip 0 2 0 Cleanliness 0 1 1 Condition after use 0 0 2

[0178] With the standard doses 2 and 3, it is observed that when the size is too small, the The grip is poor and it is difficult to handle, and when it is too bulky, it is not always possible to use it all in a washing machine cycle, which generates waste and pollution.

[0179] The dose according to invention 1 makes it possible to combine the advantages of conventional doses 2 and 3 without their disadvantages.

[0180] A composition according to the invention, thanks to the presence of cavities in the contents considered, makes it possible to access solid compositions with satisfactory cleaning properties with less material while generating less loss and less pollution, and this without prejudice to gripping properties.

[0181] A solid composition according to the invention is therefore less demanding in terms of raw materials and is therefore advantageous both ecologically and economically.

Claims

Demands

1. Solid cleaning composition, comprising at least one detergent active, in particular a surfactant, characterized in that the composition comprises at least one cavity such that said composition comprises a porosity greater than or equal to 20% by volume relative to the total volume of said solid composition, said cavity having a minimum width greater than or equal to 1mm.

2. Solid composition according to claim 1, wherein the porosity is greater than or equal to 30%, preferably greater than or equal to 40%, in particular greater than or equal to 50%, or even greater than or equal to 60%, in particular greater than or equal to 70%, and most particularly greater than or equal to 80%, by volume relative to the total volume of said solid composition.

3. Solid composition according to claim 1 or 2, in which the cavity(s) is / are through-hole(s).

4. Solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, said composition comprising one or more cavities, preferably several cavities, identical or different.

5. Solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity(ies) are round, oblong, ovoid, triangular, polygonal, honeycomb, or in the form of a tiling (or cutting), for example of the Voronoi diagram type, preferably in the form of a honeycomb.

6. Solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio between the volume of the cavity(s) and the total volume of the composition is between 0.2 and 0.9, preferably between 0.2 and 0.8, better between 0.2 and 0.7, or even between 0.2 and 0.

6.

7. Solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said composition comprises at least one gelling agent, preferably heat-sensitive.

8. Solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said composition is a single-dose composition.

9. A solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises at least one cationic, nonionic, anionic, amphoteric surfactant, and mixtures thereof

10. A solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises at least one additional compound selected from an alkali compound, a complexing agent, a sequestering agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, an activator, a brightening agent, a polycarboxylate, abrasive particles, a descaling agent, sodium bicarbonate, a hydrotrope, a softening agent, an adjuvant or co-adjuvant, a preservative, an electrolyte, an effervescent agent, a disintegrating agent, an essential oil, a perfumer, a biocide, a disinfectant, a coloring agent, glitter, a plasticizer, a binder, an absorbent agent, a foaming agent, a masking agent, a pH regulating agent, or any usual cleaning additive, and mixtures thereof.

11. A method for manufacturing a solid composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least the steps of: (i) having a composition in liquid or semi-liquid form; (ii) pouring the composition into a mold and drying until a solid composition is obtained; (iii) cutting the solid composition into the desired shape; and (iv) forming the cavities to obtain a solid composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A method for manufacturing a solid composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising at least the steps of: (a) having a composition in liquid or semi-liquid form; (b) passing the composition from step (a) through an extrusion device having a die of suitable shape to form a solid bar, and (c) cutting the bar obtained in step (b) to obtain a solid composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A method for cleaning a surface to be cleaned, comprising at least one step of applying to the surface to be cleaned at least one composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10.