Cleaning compositions and methods

Abstract

A solid cleaning composition comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate and at least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a solid cleaning composition, a toilet cleaning device, the use of the solid cleaning composition to provide cleaning to a toilet (eg as a toilet block), and a method of providing cleaning to a toilet. [Background technology]

[0002] Toilet blocks include rim blocks that are placed on the rim of a toilet bowl and cistern blocks that are placed in the toilet's cistern. The toilet blocks deliver cleaning compositions into the toilet bowl every time the toilet is flushed. Toilet blocks typically last for multiple flushes, making them a convenient tool for keeping the toilet clean and odor-free for extended periods of time without the need for repeated application of cleaning compositions to the toilet.

[0003] Currently, many toilet blocks are manufactured using petrochemically derived chemicals (particularly surfactants), such as alpha-olefin sulfonates and sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates. The commonly used petrochemically derived surfactants have superior processability and foaming properties. However, the consumer market is shifting towards products manufactured using renewable ingredients, as renewable ingredients are considered more environmentally friendly than petrochemical-derived ingredients.

[0004] Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant derived from renewable components. However, its use in toilet blocks is limited by its poor processability and poor foaming in conditions typically present in toilets (such as hard water and water temperatures between 10 and 20°C). Sodium lauryl sulfate can be combined with petrochemical-based surfactants to improve the properties of toilet blocks, but this reduces the overall environmental profile of the toilet block.

[0005] Thus, there remains a need for cleaning compositions with good processability and foaming properties that can be obtained from renewable ingredients. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved cleaning composition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid cleaning composition comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate salt and at least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a toilet cleaning device comprising the solid cleaning composition of the first aspect and an attachment element for attaching the device to a toilet.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of the solid cleaning composition of the first aspect to provide cleaning to a toilet.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of providing cleaning to a toilet comprising the step of applying a solid cleaning composition of the first aspect to the rim of the toilet or placing a solid cleaning composition of the first aspect in the cistern of the toilet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Unless otherwise stated, the following terms used in the specification and claims have the meanings given below.

[0012] As used herein, the term "hydrocarbyl" is used in its ordinary sense, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Specifically, it refers to a group having a carbon atom directly attached to the remainder of the molecule and having a predominantly hydrocarbon character. Examples of hydrocarbyl groups include hydrocarbon groups, i.e., aliphatic (saturated or unsaturated, linear or branched, e.g., alkyl or alkenyl), alicyclic (e.g., cycloalkyl or cycloalkenyl), aromatic (e.g., phenyl) groups, and combinations thereof, such as aralkyl (i.e., aryl-substituted alkyl) or alkaryl (i.e., alkyl-substituted aryl) groups.

[0013] The term "alkyl" includes both straight and branched chain alkyl groups. References to individual alkyl groups, such as "propyl," are specific for the straight chain version only, and references to individual branched chain alkyl groups, such as "isopropyl," are specific for the branched chain version only. For example, "C5-C 30 Alkyl" is C 10 -C 25 , C5-C8 alkyl, including pentyl, isopentyl and octyl.

[0014] The term "alkenyl" includes both straight-chain and branched-chain alkenyl groups. References to individual alkenyl groups, such as "propenyl," are specific for the straight-chain version only, and references to individual branched-chain alkenyl groups, such as "isopropenyl," are specific for the branched-chain version only. For example, "C 10 -C 20 Alkenyl" is C 12 -C 18 Alkenyl, C 13 Includes -C16 alkenyl and octenyl.

[0015] Any hydrocarbyl, alkyl, alkenyl or acyl group herein may be substituted (unless otherwise stated). By "optionally substituted" group, it is meant that the hydrocarbyl, alkyl, alkenyl or acyl group is substituted or unsubstituted. Suitable substituents may include non-hydrocarbon groups, provided that the predominantly hydrocarbon nature of the hydrocarbyl, alkyl, alkenyl or acyl group is not altered. Suitable substituents may include hydroxyl, oxo, alkoxy (such as C1-C4 alkoxy), amino, halo (especially fluoro and chloro), trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy, cyano, alkyl (such as C1-C6 alkyl), alkenyl (such as C2-C6 alkenyl), alkynyl (such as C2-C6 alkynyl) and aryl (such as phenyl) groups. Preferably, the hydrocarbyl, alkyl, alkenyl or acyl group herein is unsubstituted.

[0016] References herein to solid compositions or ingredients refer to compositions or ingredients that are in a solid state under normal atmospheric conditions (i.e., 1 atmosphere pressure and 298 K). The cleaning compositions of the present invention are solid cleaning compositions, and all references herein to a "cleaning composition" or "composition" of the present invention refer to a solid composition.

[0017] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, "hydrocarbyl sulfate" means one hydrocarbyl sulfate or two or more hydrocarbyl sulfates.

[0018] Throughout this specification, the terms "comprising" or "comprises" mean including the specified components but not excluding the presence of other components. The terms "consisting essentially of" or "consists essentially of" mean including the specified components but excluding other components, excluding components added for no other purpose than to achieve the technical effects of the invention. The terms "consisting of" or "consists of" mean including the specified components but excluding other components.

[0019] Wherever appropriate and depending on the context, use of the words "comprises" or "comprising" can be interpreted to include the meaning "consists essentially of" or "consisting essentially" and also to include the meaning "consists of" or "consisting."

[0020] For the avoidance of doubt, when the amount of a component in a composition is stated in weight %, this means the weight percentage of the specified component relative to the total composition referred to. For example, "the hydrocarbyl sulfate may be present in the cleaning composition in an amount of 10-50% by weight" means that 10-50% by weight of the solid cleaning composition is contributed by the hydrocarbyl sulfate.

[0021] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, the amount referred to refers to the amount of active ingredient present in the composition.Those skilled in the art will understand that some commercial sources of ingredients referred to herein may contain impurities, by-products and / or residual starting materials.However, the amount specified refers only to active ingredient, and does not include impurities, by-products, starting materials or diluents that may be present.

[0022] As used herein, unless expressly specified, all numerical values, such as percentage values, ranges, and numbers expressing quantities, can be read as if preceded by the word "about" even if that term does not expressly appear.

[0023] As used herein, the term "about" when referring to a measurable value, such as a parameter, amount, duration, etc., indicates that the value includes the standard deviation of error for the device or method used to determine the value. The term "about" is meant to encompass variations of up to ±10%, up to ±5%, or up to ±0.1% of the specified value, to the extent that such variations are appropriate for practice in this disclosure. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" refers is itself specifically disclosed.

[0024] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all integers and, where appropriate, fractions subsumed within the range (e.g., 1 to 5 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, e.g., when referring to the number of elements, and can also include 1.5, 2, 2.75, and 3.80, e.g., when referring to measurements). The recitation of endpoints also includes the endpoint values ​​themselves (e.g., 1.0 to 5.0 includes both 1.0 and 5.0). Numerical ranges recited herein are intended to include all subranges subsumed therein.

[0025] Any features described herein may be used individually or in combination with each other, where appropriate, particularly in such combinations as are described in the appended claims. Any features for each exemplary embodiment of the invention described herein may also be applied to other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, a person skilled in the art reading this specification should consider any features for each aspect or embodiment of the invention to be interchangeable and combinable between different aspects of the invention.

[0026] As used herein, the term "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items can be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be used. For example, if a list is stated to include groups A, B, and / or C, the list can include A alone; B alone; C alone; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0027] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solid cleaning composition comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate salt and at least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine.

[0028] The inventors have found that cleaning compositions comprising both hydrocarbyl sulfate and at least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine have surprisingly good processability and foaming properties, especially compared to cleaning compositions comprising hydrocarbyl sulfate but not an acyltaurine salt or a betaine.Furthermore, unlike surfactants commonly used in toilet blocks, such as alpha-olefin sulfonates and sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates, hydrocarbyl sulfates are advantageously available from renewable sources.

[0029] "At least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine" means that the cleaning composition may comprise an acyltaurine salt, a betaine, or both an acyltaurine salt and a betaine. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises an acyltaurine salt or a betaine.

[0030] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and an acyltaurine salt.

[0031] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and a betaine, wherein the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0032] The solid cleaning composition of the first aspect may be in any suitable form, for example in the form of a solid bar, tablet, block, puck, stick, or sphere. The solid cleaning composition may be manufactured by methods known to those skilled in the art, for example by compression, casting, or extrusion.

[0033] Suitably, the solid cleaning composition is for cleaning a toilet, in particular a toilet bowl. Preferably, the cleaning composition is a toilet block. Suitably, the toilet block is a rim block or a cistern block.

[0034] The solid cleaning composition comprises a hydrocarbyl sulfate. The hydrocarbyl group may be unsubstituted.

[0035] The hydrocarbyl sulfate suitably comprises an alkyl sulfate, an alkenyl sulfate, or a combination thereof. The hydrocarbyl sulfate may comprise a fatty alcohol sulfate. Suitably, the hydrocarbyl sulfate comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl sulfate or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates, e.g., C 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate or C 10 -C 20 Alkenyl sulfates. Hydrocarbyl sulfates are C5-C 30 Alkyl sulfates, preferably C 10 -C 20 It may include alkyl sulfates. The alkyl and / or alkenyl groups may be unsubstituted.

[0036] The hydrocarbyl sulfate may include metal hydrocarbyl sulfate and / or amine derivatives of hydrocarbyl sulfate. By metal hydrocarbyl sulfate is meant a hydrocarbyl sulfate containing a metal cation. Typically, the hydrocarbyl sulfate includes a metal hydrocarbyl sulfate. The metal hydrocarbyl sulfate may include a hydrocarbyl sulfate in which the cation is an alkali metal such as sodium or potassium, or an alkaline earth metal such as magnesium. Preferably, the metal hydrocarbyl sulfate includes sodium hydrocarbyl sulfate. The amine derivatives of hydrocarbyl sulfate may include ammonium hydrocarbyl sulfate, alkylamine hydrocarbyl sulfate, alkanolamine hydrocarbyl sulfate, or a combination thereof.

[0037] Examples of suitable hydrocarbyl sulfates include C 12 -C 16 Sodium alkyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LX series), C 12 -C 18Sodium alkyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LZ, CZ series), ammonium lauryl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® AL series), monoethanolamine lauryl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LQ series), diethanolamine lauryl sulfate, triethanolamine lauryl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® TL series), monoisopropanolamine lauryl sulfate, diisopropanolamine lauryl sulfate, triisopropanolamine lauryl sulfate, magnesium lauryl sulfate, potassium lauryl sulfate, milliethanolamine lauryl sulfate, Ammonium stearic acid sulfate, monoethanolamine myristyl sulfate, diethanolamine myristyl sulfate, triethanolamine myristyl sulfate, sodium myristyl sulfate, ammonium cetyl sulfate, diethanolamine cetyl sulfate, sodium cetyl sulfate, sodium cetostearyl sulfate, ammonium coco sulfate, sodium tallow sulfate, sodium oleyl sulfate, diethanolamine oleyl sulfate, sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® 0585 series), sodium decyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® 0758 series), C 10 -C 12 Sodium fatty alcohol sulfates (e.g., EMPICOL® 0335 series), C8-C 10 sodium fatty alcohol sulfate, sodium sulphate, sodium phosphate, sodium phosphate diluent ...

[0038] Suitably the hydrocarbyl sulfate is 12 -C 16 Sodium alkyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LX series), C 12 -C 18Sodium alkyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LZ, CZ series), magnesium lauryl sulfate, potassium lauryl sulfate, sodium myristyl sulfate, sodium cetyl sulfate, sodium cetostearyl sulfate, sodium tallow sulfate, sodium oleyl sulfate, sodium decyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® 0758 series), C 10 -C 12 Sodium fatty alcohol sulfates (e.g., EMPICOL® 0335 series), C8-C 10 Preferably, the hydrocarbyl sulfate is selected from the group consisting of sodium fatty alcohol sulfate, sodium sulphate ... 12 -C 16 Sodium alkyl sulfate (e.g., EMPICOL® LX series), C 12 -C 18 sodium alkyl sulfates (e.g., EMPICOL® LZ, CZ series), or combinations thereof.

[0039] The hydrocarbyl sulfate may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 5 to 50 wt.%, for example, from 10 to 40 wt.%, or even from 12 to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0040] The solid cleaning composition may comprise an acyltaurine salt. The acyltaurine salt may comprise a fatty acyltaurine salt. The acyltaurine salt is suitably a C5-C 30 Acyl taurine salts, e.g., C 10 -C 20 The acyltaurine salts include acyltaurine salts. The acyltaurine salts may include alkyl acyltaurine salts. The alkyl acyltaurine salts are suitably C1-C 10 Alkyl acyltaurine salts include, for example, C1-C6 alkyl acyltaurine salts, and further, C1-C4 alkyl acyltaurine salts. The alkyl and / or acyl groups may be unsubstituted.

[0041] The alkyl acyltaurate salts suitably include methyl acyltaurate salts. Examples of suitable alkyl acyltaurate salts include sodium lauroyl methyl taurate, sodium myristoyl methyl taurate, sodium palmitoyl methyl taurate, sodium stearoyl methyl taurate, sodium cocoyl methyl taurate, sodium oleoyl methyl taurate, and combinations thereof.

[0042] Preferably, the acyltaurine salt comprises sodium oleoyl methyl taurine.

[0043] The acyltaurine salt may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as an amount of 1 to 30% by weight, such as 2 to 25% by weight, or even 3 to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0044] The solid cleaning composition may comprise a betaine. The betaine may comprise an alkyl betaine, an alkyl amidopropyl betaine, an alkyl sultaine, an alkyl hydroxy sultaine, an alkyl amidopropyl sultaine, an alkyl amidopropyl hydroxy sultaine, or a combination thereof. Suitably, the betaine comprises an alkyl betaine, an alkyl amidopropyl betaine, or a combination thereof. The betaine may be a C5-C 30 Alkylbetaines, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C5-C 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C 30 Alkyl Hydroxysultaine, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C5-C 30 betaine, alkylamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, or a combination thereof. 10 -C 20 Alkylbetaine, C 10 -C 20 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C 10 -C 20 Alkyl sultaine, C 10 -C 20 Alkyl hydroxysultaine, C 10-C 20 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C 10 -C 20 alkylamidopropylhydroxysultaine, or combinations thereof. The alkyl groups may be unsubstituted.

[0045] Suitably, the betaine is a C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, preferably C 10 -C 20 It may include alkylamidopropyl betaine.

[0046] Betaine has the formula [ka] may be In the formula, R 1 is C5-C 30 is an alkyl or alkenyl group, R 2 and R 3 are each independently an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or carboxyalkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms; m is 2 to 4; n is 0 or 1; X is an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms which may be substituted with hydroxyl; Y is -CO2 - or SO3 - It is.

[0047] Preferably, R 1 is C 10 -C 20 R is an alkyl or alkenyl group. 1 may be a mixture of alkyl groups. Suitably, the number of moles of the group R is based on the total moles of betaine present. 1 At least half, preferably at least three quarters, of the alkyl groups have 10 to 14 carbon atoms.

[0048] R 1 may be a mixture of alkyl groups derived from coconut or palm kernels.

[0049] R 2 and R3 is preferably methyl.

[0050] Betaine has the formula [ka] In one embodiment, the alkyl betaine is represented by the formula: 1 , R 2 and R 3 is as defined above.

[0051] Betaine has the formula [ka] In one embodiment, the alkylaminobetaine may be of the formula: 1 , R 2 and R 3 is as defined above; m is 2 or 3.

[0052] Betaine has the formula [ka] In one embodiment, the compound may comprise a sultaine (or sulfobetaine) of the formula: 1 , R 2 and R 3 is as defined above; m is 2 or 3; or (CH2)3SO3 - The formula is [ka] This is a variant in which .

[0053] Suitable betaine surfactants include alkylamido betaines; alkyl betaines, C 12 / 14Alkyl dimethyl betaines;Cocoamidopropyl betaine;Tallow bis(hydroxyethyl) betaine;Hexadecyl dimethyl betaine;Coco dimethyl betaine;Alkyl amidopropyl sulfobetaine;Alkyl dimethylamine betaine;Cocoamidopropyl dimethyl betaine;Alkyl amidopropyl dimethylamine betaine;Cocamidopropyl betaine;Lauryl betaine;Lauryl amidopropyl betaine, Cocoamido betaine, Lauryl amido betaine, Alkyl amino betaine;Alkyl amido betaine;Coco betaine;Lauryl betaine;Diemethicone propyl PG-betaine;Oleyl betaine;N-Alkyl dimethyl betaine;Coco biguamide derivatives, C8 amido betaine;C 12 Amidobetaine;Lauryldimethylbetaine;Alkylamidopropylbetaine;Amidobetaine;Alkylbetaine;Cetylbetaine;Oleamidopropylbetaine;Isostearamidopropylbetaine;Lauramidopropylbetaine;2-Alkyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethylimidazolinium betaine;2-Alkyl-N-carboxyethyl-N-hydroxyethylimidazolinium betaine;2-Alkyl-N-sodium carboxymethyl-N-carboxymethyloxyethylimidazolinium Betaine;N-Alkyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)-ammonium-betaine;N-Alkyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)-ammonium-betaine;Cocodimethylbetaine;Apricotamidopropyl betaine;Isostearamidopropyl betaine;Myristamidopropyl betaine;Palmitamidopropyl betaine;Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine;Undecylenamidopropyl betaine;Cocoamidosulfobetaine;Alkylamido betaine;C 12 / 18 Alkylamidopropyldimethylamine betaine; lauryl dimethyl betaine; ricinoleamido betaine; tallow amino betaine.

[0054] Suitably the betaine comprises cocoamidopropyl betaine.

[0055] The betaine may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 1 to 30% by weight, such as from 2 to 25% by weight, or even from 3 to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0056] Suitably, the total amount of acyltaurine salts and / or betaines in the cleaning composition (whether only acyltaurine salts or betaines or both are present) is from 1 to 30% by weight, such as from 2 to 25% by weight, or even from 3 to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0057] Suitably, the total amount of the hydrocarbyl sulfate and at least one of the acyltaurine salt and the betaine in the cleaning composition is 15-60% by weight, for example, 20-50% by weight, 20-45% by weight, or even 25-35% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. If no betaine is present, it is the total amount of the hydrocarbyl sulfate and the acyltaurine salt. If no acyltaurine salt is present, it is the total amount of the hydrocarbyl sulfate and the betaine.

[0058] The cleaning composition may contain additional ingredients, i.e., in addition to the hydrocarbyl sulfate and the acyltaurine salt and / or betaine.

[0059] The cleaning composition may comprise a fatty alcohol. The fatty alcohol is suitably selected from the group consisting of C 10 -C 20 Alkyl alcohol or C 10 -C 20 Alkenyl alcohols, such as C 16 -C 18 Alkyl alcohol or C 16 -C 18 Preferably, the fatty alcohol is C 10 -C 20 Alkyl alcohols, e.g., C 16 -C 18 Contains alkyl alcohol.

[0060] The fatty alcohol may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 1 to 10% by weight, for example, from 2 to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0061] The cleaning composition may include hydrocarbyl glucosides and / or glycolipids, such as sophorolipids, rhamnolipids, and / or mannosylerythritol lipids.

[0062] The cleaning composition may include a hydrocarbyl glucoside. The hydrocarbyl glucoside may suitably include an alkyl glucoside, an alkenyl glucoside, or a combination thereof. The hydrocarbyl glucoside may include a fatty alcohol glucoside. Suitably, the hydrocarbyl glucoside may be a C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl glucosides, e.g., C 10 -C 20 Alkyl or C 10 -C 20 Alkenyl glucosides. Hydrocarbyl glucosides include C 10 -C 20 C5-C alkyl glucosides 30 It may include alkyl glucosides. Examples of suitable hydrocarbyl glucosides include octyl glucoside, decyl glucoside, octyldecyl glucoside, undecyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, myristyl glucoside, cetearyl glucoside, and coco-glucoside. A suitable example of a hydrocarbyl glucoside is lauryl glucoside.

[0063] The hydrocarbyl glucoside may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 0.1 to 5 wt. %, for example from 0.25 to 2 wt. %, or even from 0.5 to 1 wt. %, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0064] The cleaning composition may include a glycolipid, such as a sophorolipid, a rhamnolipid, and / or a mannosylerythritol lipid.

[0065] The cleaning composition may comprise a hydrocarbyl ether sulfate. The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate suitably comprises an alkyl ether sulfate, an alkenyl ether sulfate, or a combination thereof. The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may comprise a fatty alcohol ether sulfate. Suitably, the hydrocarbyl ether sulfate comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, e.g., C 10 -C 20 The hydrocarbyl ether sulfates include alkyl or alkenyl ether sulfates, C5-C 30 Alkyl ether sulfates, preferably C 10 -C 20 The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may include alkyl ether sulfates. The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may include metal hydrocarbyl ether sulfates and / or amine derivatives of hydrocarbyl ether sulfates. By metal hydrocarbyl ether sulfates is meant hydrocarbyl ether sulfates containing a metal cation. The metal hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may include hydrocarbyl ether sulfates in which the cation is an alkali metal such as sodium or potassium, or an alkaline earth metal such as magnesium. Preferably, the metal hydrocarbyl ether sulfate includes sodium hydrocarbyl ether sulfate. The amine derivatives of hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may include ammonium hydrocarbyl ether sulfate, alkylamine hydrocarbyl ether sulfate, alkanolamine hydrocarbyl ether sulfate, or combinations thereof. A suitable example of a hydrocarbyl ether sulfate is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0066] The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 0.5 to 10 wt.%, for example, from 1 to 5 wt.%, or even from 1.5 to 2.5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0067] The cleaning composition suitably comprises at least one of the hydrocarbyl glucosides and hydrocarbyl ether sulfates defined above.

[0068] The cleaning composition may include at least one additional ingredient selected from pH adjusters, pH buffers, thickeners, solubility regulators, preservatives, chelating agents, biocides, limescale removers, bleaches, enzymes, pigments, dyes, fragrances, perfumes, polymers, fillers, builders, corrosion inhibitors, flow conditioners, microorganisms, biofilm removers, soil adhesion inhibitors, and combinations thereof.

[0069] The cleaning composition may include a filler. The filler may suitably include a carbonate, a sulfate, a halide salt, a phosphate, a silicate, or a combination thereof. The filler may include an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal carbonate, an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal sulfate, an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal halide salt, an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal phosphate, or a combination thereof. Suitable fillers include sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, and sodium silicate.

[0070] The filler may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as at least 10% by weight, such as at least 30% by weight, or even at least 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition. The filler may be present in the cleaning composition in an amount of 10-90% by weight, such as 30-70% by weight, or even 50-60% by weight, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0071] The cleaning composition may include a builder (also known as a sequestering agent). The builder may include a polycarboxylic acid or salt thereof, a carbonate, a phosphate, citric acid, a citrate, a silicate, or a combination thereof. Suitably, the builder includes a citrate, for example a tribasic citrate. The citrate may be an alkali metal citrate or an alkaline earth metal citrate. A suitable example of a citrate is tribasic sodium citrate. The builder may also act as a chelating agent (for example in the case of phosphates and citrates) and / or a limescale remover (for example in the case of citrates).

[0072] The builder (such as a citrate) may be present in the cleaning composition in any suitable amount, such as from 0.1 to 10 wt. %, for example, from 0.5 to 5 wt. %, or even from 0.75 to 3 wt. %, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0073] The cleaning composition may include microorganisms. Suitably, the microorganisms include probiotics. By probiotics is meant spores capable of producing beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bacillus strains) that produce in situ highly targeted enzymes that break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and convert them into water and carbon dioxide. Probiotics can advantageously penetrate deep into the pores of surfaces to break down and facilitate removal of a wide range of attached organic residues that cannot be removed by conventional chemical-based detergents. Bacillus strains can also be used for the complete breakdown of malodor sources. The microorganisms, e.g., probiotics, may be provided in association with a builder as defined herein. For example, the cleaning composition of the first aspect may include tribasic sodium citrate together with the probiotics.

[0074] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may advantageously comprise ingredients derived from renewable sources. Preferably, the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) (%RCI) of at least 90%, suitably at least 98%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition. The renewable carbon index (RCI) of an ingredient is calculated according to ISO 16128-1:2016-Annex C, where the number of carbon atoms derived from renewable sources is divided by the total number of carbon atoms in the ingredient. The total RCI of the cleaning composition is the weighted average of the RCI of each carbon-containing surfactant in the cleaning composition. The %RCI is obtained by multiplying the RCI by 100. The term "surfactant" is well understood by those skilled in the art, and such skilled artisans will easily understand which ingredients of the cleaning composition of the first aspect are surfactants.

[0075] The hydrocarbyl sulfate may have a %RCI of at least 90%, suitably at least 95%, such as at least 99%, for example 100%. The hydrocarbyl sulfate may have a %RCI of 90-100%, suitably 95-100%, for example 99-100%.

[0076] The acyltaurine salt may have a %RCI of at least 60%, suitably at least 70%, for example at least 80%. The acyltaurine salt may have a %RCI of 60-100%, suitably 70-100%, for example 80-100%.

[0077] The betaine may have a %RCI of at least 40%, suitably at least 50%, for example at least 60%. The betaine may have a %RCI of 40-100%, suitably 50-100%, for example 60-100%.

[0078] The solid components in the cleaning composition are suitably present in the form of powders, agglomerates, granules, needles, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the solid components are in the form of powders. This may be beneficial for the processability of the cleaning composition.

[0079] Suitably, the solid component is present in the cleaning composition in an amount of at least 80 wt-%, such as at least 85 wt-%, or even at least 90 wt-%, based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

[0080] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and an acyltaurate. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Preferably, the cleaning composition comprises a C 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20 Contains acyltaurine salts.

[0081] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise hydrocarbyl sulfates and acyltaurates, where the hydrocarbyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Preferably, the cleaning composition comprises an acyltaurine salt, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted. 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20 Includes acyltaurine salts, where the alkyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted.

[0082] For example, the cleaning composition may include sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium oleoyl methyl taurate.

[0083] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate salt having an %RCI of at least 90% and an acyltaurine salt having an %RCI of at least 60%, where the hydrocarbyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C hydroxypropyl ester having an %RCI of at least 95%. 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfate and C5-C with %RCI of at least 70% 30 and an acyltaurine salt, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted. Preferably, the cleaning composition comprises a C 10 -C 20 C with alkyl sulfate and %RCI of at least 80% 10 -C 20 and acyltaurine salts, where the alkyl and acyl groups are unsubstituted.

[0084] For example, a cleaning composition may include sodium lauryl sulfate having a %RCI of 100% and sodium oleoyl methyl taurate having a %RCI of at least 80%.

[0085] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and a betaine. The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and a betaine, wherein the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0086] Suitably the cleaning composition comprises C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Alkylbetaines, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C5-C 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C 30 Alkyl Hydroxysultaine, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C5-C 30 Preferably, the cleaning composition comprises C 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20 Contains alkylamidopropyl betaine.

[0087] Suitably the cleaning composition comprises C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Alkylbetaines, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C5-C 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C 30 Alkyl Hydroxysultaine, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C5-C 30 or a combination thereof, wherein the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition. 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20alkylamidopropyl betaine, wherein the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0088] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and a betaine, wherein the hydrocarbyl group is unsubstituted. The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate and a betaine, wherein the hydrocarbyl group is unsubstituted, and the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Alkylbetaines, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C5-C 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C 30 Alkyl Hydroxysultaine, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C5-C 30 and alkylamidopropyl hydroxysultaines, or combinations thereof, where the alkyl and alkenyl groups are unsubstituted. 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20 The cleaning composition comprises an alkyl amidopropyl betaine, wherein the alkyl group is unsubstituted. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfates and C5-C 30 Alkylbetaines, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaine, C5-C 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C 30 Alkyl Hydroxysultaine, C5-C 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaine, C5-C 30or a combination thereof, wherein the alkyl and alkenyl groups are unsubstituted, and the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition. 10 -C 20 Alkyl sulfate and C 10 -C 20 The cleaning composition includes an alkylamidopropyl betaine, where the alkyl group is unsubstituted, and has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0089] For example, the cleaning composition may include sodium lauryl sulfate and cocoamidopropyl betaine, where the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0090] The cleaning composition of the first aspect may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate having an %RCI of at least 90% and a betaine having an %RCI of at least 40%, where the hydrocarbyl groups are unsubstituted. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C betaine having an %RCI of at least 95%. 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfate and C5-C with %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl betaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl hydroxysultaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaines, C5-C with %RCI of at least 50% 30or a combination thereof, wherein the alkyl and alkenyl groups are unsubstituted. Preferably, the cleaning composition comprises a C 10 -C 20 C with alkyl sulfate and %RCI of at least 60% 10 -C 20 and alkylamidopropyl betaines, where the alkyl group is unsubstituted.

[0091] The cleaning composition of the first embodiment may comprise a hydrocarbyl sulfate having a %RCI of at least 90% and a betaine having a %RCI of at least 40%, where the hydrocarbyl group is unsubstituted, and the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactant in the cleaning composition. Suitably, the cleaning composition comprises a C5-C 100% surfactant having a %RCI of at least 95%. 30 Alkyl or C5-C 30 Alkenyl sulfate and C5-C with %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl betaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkylamidopropyl betaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl sultaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkyl hydroxysultaines, C5-C with a %RCI of at least 50% 30 Alkylamidopropyl sultaines, C5-C with %RCI of at least 50% 30 or a combination thereof, wherein the alkyl and alkenyl groups are unsubstituted, and the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition. Preferably, the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 99%. 10 -C 20 C with alkyl sulfate and %RCI of at least 60% 10 -C 20and an alkylamidopropyl betaine, where the alkyl group is unsubstituted, and the cleaning composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the cleaning composition.

[0092] For example, a cleaning composition may include sodium lauryl sulfate having a %RCI of 100% and cocoamidopropyl betaine having a %RCI of at least 60%. For example, a cleaning composition may include sodium lauryl sulfate having a %RCI of 100% and cocoamidopropyl betaine having a %RCI of at least 60%, where the composition has a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the composition.

[0093] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a toilet cleaning device comprising the solid cleaning composition of the first aspect and an attachment element for attaching the device to a toilet.

[0094] Suitable characteristics of the cleaning composition in the second aspect are as defined in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0095] Suitably the device is attachable to the rim of the toilet bowl. The attachment element may be in the form of an arm or hook.

[0096] The device may include a holder for holding the cleaning composition. The holder may be in the form of a housing, such as a basket. When water is flushed through the toilet, the water appropriately contacts a portion of the cleaning composition, for example by passing through the basket, to dissolve a portion of the cleaning composition and provide cleaning to the toilet.

[0097] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of the solid cleaning composition of the first aspect to provide cleaning to a toilet. For example, the cleaning composition of the first aspect may be used as a toilet block to provide cleaning to a toilet.

[0098] Suitable features of the solid cleaning composition in the third aspect are as defined in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0099] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of providing cleaning to a toilet comprising the step of applying a solid cleaning composition of the first aspect to the rim of the toilet or placing a solid cleaning composition of the first aspect in the cistern of the toilet.

[0100] Suitable characteristics of the cleaning composition in the fourth aspect are as defined in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0101] The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting examples. [Example] [Examples 1 to 14]

[0102] Preparation of Solid Cleaning Compositions A composition containing ingredients selected from those shown in Table 1 was prepared. [Table 1]

[0103] The solid ingredients shown in Tables 1 and 2 herein were weighed and added to the mixing chamber of a horizontal mixer with counter rotating sigma blades and mixed to a homogenous mixture. The front blade rotation speed was 48 rpm and the back blade rotation speed was 32 rpm. The temperature of the mixing chamber was set at 25°C. The liquid ingredients shown in Tables 1 and 2 were then weighed and added to the premixed solid ingredients while mixing. When a homogenous dough with a paste or large granules was obtained, the mixer was stopped. The dough was then added to a single screw extruder and extruded into the desired shape at a screw speed of 10 rpm. The extruder barrel and conical head temperatures were set at 18.5°C and 30°C, respectively.

[0104] Processability The processability of the composition was rated "OK" if a pasty or granular dough was obtained after mixing, the dough maintained its shape and did not crack or crumble during extrusion.

[0105] Foam Test The foaming profiles of the compositions in Table 2 were tested according to ASTM D1173-53 (2001) "Foaming properties of Surface Active Agents" and UNI26001 "Cosmetic And Personal Hygiene Products - Foaming Power Determination Of Detergent Products Containing Surface Active Agents", 1995, using the well-known Ross Miles pouring foam method (J. Ross, G. D. Miles: An Apparatus for Comparison of Foaming Properties of Soaps and Detergents, Oil & Soap, May 1941, P. 99-102.).

[0106] The test conditions are as follows. [Table 2]

[0107] The foam was compared to the market leading petrochemical based toilet rim block, whose typical composition is 26% by weight sodium linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (85% active), 18% by weight alpha-olefin sulfonate (95% active), 8% by weight Ceteareth-25 (100%), 4% by weight fragrance, 1% by weight trisodium citrate dihydrate, sodium sulfate (added to total 100% by weight).

[0108] The lathering of a composition was rated "OK" if it produced at least 80% of the benchmark lather volume (instant lather at 0 seconds and stable lather at 300 seconds).

[0109] Calculating %RCI The percent renewable carbon index (%RCI) was determined by dividing the number of carbon atoms derived from renewable sources by the total number of carbon atoms. The %RCI of the composition was determined by taking the weighted average of the %RCI of each carbon-containing surfactant component. The %RCI of Empicol® LZ / N, Empicol® LX / B, Empiwax® SK / BP, and Empilan® APL 50 is 100%. The %RCI of Sodium C12-16 2EO Sulfate in Tables 1 and 2 was 76%. The %RCI of Aquanate® MOT 70 was 86%. The %RCI of Cocoamidopropyl Betaine in Tables 1 and 2 was 66%. [Table 3]

[0110] As shown in Table 2, compositions containing a hydrocarbyl sulfate and at least one of an acyltaurine salt and a betaine surprisingly exhibited better processability and foaming properties than compositions that did not contain either an acyltaurine salt or a betaine.

[0111] Life Test The longevity of the composition was tested by flushing at random intervals a toilet with a basket containing 4 x 12.5g blocks of the composition (total weight 50g) attached to the rim. The toilet was a Dolomite Clodia model and the flush volume was approximately 10L. The water hardness was approximately 300ppm CaCO3 and the water temperature was approximately 15°C.

[0112] The shelf life was determined as the point at which the composition was completely used up.

[0113] Example 3 in Table 2 was compared to the market leading petrochemical based toilet block used in the foam test. [Table 4]

[0114] While several preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0115] Attention is directed to all articles and documents related to this application that have been filed contemporaneously or prior to this application and that are publicly available herewith, the contents of all such articles and documents being incorporated herein by reference.

[0116] All features disclosed in this specification (including the appended claims), and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0117] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims and drawings), unless expressly stated otherwise, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is only an example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0118] The invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing embodiments, and extends to any novel, or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims and drawings), or any novel, or any novel combination of steps of the disclosed methods or processes.

Claims

1. A solid cleaning composition comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate and at least one of an acyl taurine salt and betaine.

2. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate and an acyl taurine salt.

3. A solid cleaning composition comprising a hydrocarbyl sulfate and betaine, having a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90% based on the total amount of surfactants in the composition, according to claim 1.

4. The hydrocarbyl sulfate is C ５ -C ３０ alkyl sulfate, preferably C １０ -C ２０ The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising alkyl sulfate.

5. The acyltaurine salt is C ５ -C ３０ The acyltaurine salt, preferably C １０ -C ２０ The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising an acyltaurine salt.

6. Betaine is C ５ -C ３０ alkylamidopropyl betaine, preferably C １０ -C ２０ The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising alkylamidopropyl betaine.

7. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, wherein the total amount of hydrocarbyl sulfate, acyl taurine salt and betaine in the cleaning composition is 20 to 45% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

8. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising a hydrocarbyl glucoside and / or a glycolipid, such as sophorolipid, rhamnolipid and / or mannosylerythritol lipid.

9. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising a hydrocarbyl ether sulfate.

10. The hydrocarbyl ether sulfate is C ５ -C ３０ alkyl ether sulfate, preferably C １０ -C ２０ The solid cleaning composition according to claim 9, comprising alkyl ether sulfate.

11. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising at least one additional component selected from a pH adjuster, a pH buffer, a thickener, a solubility regulator, a preservative, a chelating agent, a biocide, a scale remover, a bleaching agent, an enzyme, a pigment, a dye, a fragrance, a flavor enhancer, a polymer, a filler, a builder, a corrosion inhibitor, a flow regulator, a microorganism (such as probiotics), a biofilm remover, an anti-fouling agent, and combinations thereof.

12. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, comprising a filler in an amount of at least 10% by weight based on the total weight of the cleaning composition.

13. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, having a renewable carbon index (%) of at least 90%, preferably at least 98%, based on the total amount of surfactants in the composition.

14. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 1, which is a toilet block.

15. The solid cleaning composition according to claim 14, wherein the toilet block is a rim block or a cistern block.

16. A toilet cleaning device comprising the solid cleaning composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and an attachment element for attaching the device to a toilet.

17. Use of the solid cleaning composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15 for providing cleaning in a toilet.

18. A method of providing cleaning to a toilet, the method comprising the step of attaching the solid cleaning composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15 to the rim of the toilet, or the step of placing the solid cleaning composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15 in the cistern of the toilet.